Franklin Square Leader Honored as NYS Elementary School Assistant Principal of the Year

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John Trotta, Polk Street School Assistant Principal

ALBANY, NY (01/29/2026) (readMedia)-- John Trotta, assistant principal at Polk Street School in the Franklin Square UFSD, has been selected as the 2026 New York State Elementary School Assistant Principal of the Year. This award is presented annually by the School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS) and the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) to an elementary school assistant principal who demonstrates exceptional leadership, strengthens school culture, and ensures high-quality educational opportunities for all students.

Trotta has served as assistant principal at Polk Street School for the past ten years. Reflecting on his leadership, he says, "It is a profound responsibility to be a part of the lives of so many students, staff members, and families. I do not take that privilege lightly. I also never lose sight of what it felt like to be a child learning and a teacher in the classroom. That perspective grounds my leadership, helps me make supportive and fair decisions, and keeps me focused on creating a school environment where both students and teachers can thrive and succeed."

One of Trotta's most significant accomplishments is the establishment of the "Better, Not Bigger" initiative, a student, teacher, and family-focused problem-solving program that has become embedded in the school's culture. For the past six years, Trotta and his principal have presented engaging, authentic, and scenario-based workshops to students in kindergarten through sixth grade, teaching them to approach challenges with intentionality, accountability, and resilience. Trotta explains that the program helps students "calmly brainstorm productive ways to be more thoughtful and caring students, and take ownership of improving a situation instead of escalating a problem." Since its implementation, Polk Street has seen consistent year-over-year improvement in student leadership, behavior, and decision-making skills, and the shared language of the program is reinforced by teachers and families alike.

Trotta has also introduced, expanded, and elevated "Senior Day," an annual event that invites graduating high school seniors, all of whom are Polk Street alumni, back to their elementary school to connect with students and staff. The day allows seniors to share their experiences with sixth graders preparing for the transition to middle school, while younger students celebrate them in a building-wide parade. Trotta notes that the event is memorable for students and educators, and especially meaningful because "it is vital for our learners to see teenagers in their community as leaders and role models." The model has since been adopted district-wide and replicated in neighboring communities.

In addition to these initiatives, Trotta has developed best practices that use technology to improve communication, efficiency, and school climate. These include real-time academic tracking systems, tools to recognize positive student behavior, streamlined scheduling to protect instructional time, and accessible resources for families. Trotta emphasizes that his goal is to "remain reflective in my decisions, maintain organized systems, and genuinely care for the people I serve," ensuring a healthy, well-structured learning environment.

Franklin Square Superintendent Dr. Jared Bloom praised Trotta's leadership, stating, "Dr. Trotta is a highly motivated and passionate educator who has a visible presence in the building, supporting students and teachers." Bloom added, "Dr. Trotta understands how to be supportive while also making sure students, educators, and staff members are held to the highest standards. He is a leader who is constantly giving for the greater good of the organization and our students."

Polk Street School Principal Gilbert Torossian described Trotta's impact on the school community, saying, "For ten years, John has been the heart behind so much of what makes Polk Street School a place where children feel safe, known, and inspired." He added, "John's leadership is rooted not in position, but in connection. His 'Better, Not Bigger' program stands as one of his most transformative accomplishments." Torossian adds, "John's leadership is not only felt in the daily rhythms of our school but also in the lasting relationships he builds – always with kindness, vision, and integrity."

Trotta holds a Master of Science in Instructional Technology from the New York Institute of Technology, an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Educational Leadership from Stony Brook University, and a Doctor of Education in Educational Administration and Supervision from St. John's University. He is an active member of the Nassau County Elementary School Principals' Association (NCESPA) and the Parent Teacher Association (PTA).

Trotta and fellow 2026 award winners will be recognized at SAANYS' annual awards celebration on Friday, May 1, at the Desmond Hotel – Crowne Plaza in Albany, New York.

SAANYS represents nearly 22,000 school administrators, supervisors, and retirees. As a professional association, SAANYS is committed to providing direction, service, and support to educators in their work to strengthen leadership and learning in New York State schools. SAANYS is affiliated with the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).