White Plains City School District celebrates leadership excellence during National Principals Month

The White Plains City School District is proud to celebrate National Principals Month and honor the eight principals and one school director who serve their students and staff with leadership, vision, compassion and dedication.

“We are proud to mark National Principals Month to shine a spotlight on the transformative power of our dedicated principals, who play such a vital role in paving a path for success for every student,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Joseph Ricca said.

“We pay homage to the principals’ leadership and influence, which permeate into all areas of their buildings and leave an indelible mark on students and staff alike,” he added.

WPHS Principal Emerly Martinez, Rochambeau School Director Khali Murrell, Highlands School Principal Michael Eaton, Eastview School Principal Leroy Dixon, Church Street School Principal Myra Castillo, Mamaroneck Avenue School Principal Rob Janowitz, Post Road School Principal Jesimae Ossorio, Ridgeway School Principal Dr. Kimberly Crawford and George Washington School Principal Laura Mungin are focused on creating a safe, positive and inclusive school climate.

“For me, it’s about providing opportunities for students, whether that means collaborating with different stakeholders in our school community or developing new programs that spark students’ passions and curiosity,” Mr. Martinez said.

“I want to make sure our Tigers leave WPHS with a solid foundation, that they are well-rounded, and ready to take on whatever the world throws at them. It’s about being committed to serving others, including our students, families and staff,” he added.

Ms. Murrell said that “as a historically underrepresented and underserved person — Black and female — what keeps me passionate about my work is equity.

“I am also deeply motivated by the (Social and Emotional Learning) work embedded in education, which nurtures empathy, connection and growth -- and in turn supports instruction,” the alternative high school director added. “I live by the motto, ‘None of us is as smart as all of us.’ This belief drives me to collaborate, elevate all voices and build strong, inclusive communities.”

She said she was proud to have reached her current position after beginning her career 25 years ago as a school social worker.

Mr. Eaton credited his father, who served as a house administrator at White Plains High School for 30 years, as his inspiration to follow in his footsteps and serve as a role model for his students.

“The students are what keep me passionate. As a struggling student myself, I always missed the kind of relationship that could have pushed me to do my best in school. I want to be that person for students who face similar struggles—a champion in their corner,” he said.

Mr. Eaton praised the school staff for listening to the students and making them “feel like valued members of our community.”

Asked about what National Principals Month means to him, he chose to shine the light on others.

“To me, it’s not a big deal personally, but it’s wonderful that the people who are truly shaping our world and preparing our young people to contribute to our society are being recognized,” Mr. Eaton said.

For her part, Dr. Crawford called herself a lifelong educator who always knew that being a leader is important.

“I love to impact communities by making positive changes. I have always loved working with children. That was the surface. Once I saw how my contributions in the classroom were effective, I wanted to find ways to broaden my reach.  I am truly honored to serve as the principal of Ridgeway School in White Plains,” she said.

“My passion for education is rooted in a deep love of learning and a commitment to creating an environment where every student feels inspired, supported and empowered. I believe that when students are engaged and connected, they thrive, and their success becomes our shared success,” Dr. Crawford added.

Ms. Castillo said that what keeps her passionate about being the principal of Church Street School “is the opportunity to be part of and contribute to a strong community where we build collective efficacy to support student growth.

“It’s an honor to walk alongside each child on their educational journey and witness the lasting impact we make. Seeing former students return, some as educators themselves, is a powerful reminder of the influence we’ve had,” she said.

“The joy on students’ faces and the relationships we build fuel my commitment every day. I’m proud to serve as the principal of Church Street School, where students always come first,” Ms. Castillo added.

Mr. Janowitz also cited his father as an influence in establishing his career choice.

“Growing up, I watched my father work in the helping profession, and he served as a powerful role model,” he said. “His compassion, dedication and ability to make a positive impact in people's lives left a lasting impression on me and inspired my own path toward working with children."

The Mamaroneck Avenue School principal said he is particularly proud when former students drop by for a visit to share what they are up to.

“I love hearing about the impact MAS has had on them and the memories they continue to cherish to this day,” he said, adding that National Principals Month “is a time to recognize the dedication, passion and love that principals bring to their work each and every day.

“Being a principal is more than a job -- it’s a calling. It truly is the greatest profession in the world, and this month shines a light on the incredible impact we make,” he said.