Hewlett-Woodmere Administrator Honored with State Award

Related Media

Richard Mangeri

ALBANY, NY (03/29/2023) (readMedia)-- ALBANY, NY – Dr. Richard Mangeri, assistant principal at George W. Hewlett High School in the Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools, has been selected as the 2023 New York State Secondary School Assistant Principal of the Year by the School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS). This award is given annually by SAANYS and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) to a middle or high school assistant principal who has set the pace, character, and quality of education for the students in his or her school. Nominees are administrators who are committed to students, parents, and the community and have shown exceptional contributions to the educational process.

Known as an administrator who works tirelessly to assure that all students feel comfortable and welcomed at G.W. Hewlett HS, Mangeri has implemented several initiatives to that end. He fosters safety at the school by offering assemblies on various topics such as the dangers of vaping and cyberbullying by the Nassau County Police Department; a scientific seminar by Dr. Stephen Dewey to educate the students and parents on the dangers of vaping; and a night program for 11th and 12th graders called Arrive Alive, highlighting the dangers of texting and drunk driving.

Mangeri prides himself on leading by example and will do whatever it takes for the school to run smoothly, whether it's mopping the floors or covering a class. He empowers the staff and students by actively creating a culture of trust by encouraging open conversation and diversity of thought. He often asks students how they could have better handled certain situations with teachers or peers. He works with students to identify the pros and cons of their decisions, which allows them to make the best choices and develop problem-solving skills. Commented student, Nathaniel Redillo, "I always had support from Dr. Mangeri. He always ensured I felt safe and that I belonged. He was always there to provide guidance and insight."

He also promotes equity within the school by offering professional development on the topic to teachers, including a faculty meeting to discuss conversations surrounding bias and supporting students, as well as bringing in an organization called Erase Racism to discuss bias and awareness. Discussions with students center around celebrating multicultural days to highlight and strengthen understanding of behaviors and values tied to cultures. The students organize multicultural music to be played during passing times once per week.

Over the past 10 years, Mangeri has mentored several administrative candidates. The most important value he shared with his mentees was encouraging them to not be afraid to make mistakes and instead use mistakes as a learning opportunity. He also encourages the faculty to step out of their comfort zones and take a risk by trying something new in their classrooms. Commented teacher, Jared Pittelli, "Dr. Mangeri always supports his teachers and students alike to work to create an open dialogue where all parties feel respected and that they have a voice." Bob Machado, department chairperson of business education, added, " Dr. Mangeri has been a mentor and a colleague. He is easy to approach and his "big picture" view of education can help someone in any situation."

Former principal of G.W. Hewlett HS, Dr. Theodore Fulton, commented that "Dr. Mangeri always makes the time to work with staff and students to identify areas of improvement within the school and empower stakeholders to actively partake in the decision-making process."

Mangeri received his Bachelor of Arts, Master of Science, and Doctor of Education degrees from St. John's University, and his Advanced Certification in Education Administration from The College of St. Rose.

As the NYS Secondary School Assistant Principal of the Year, Mangeri is now a candidate for the award of National Assistant Principal of the Year, an award sponsored by NASSP.

SAANYS represents nearly 14,000 school administrators, supervisors, and coordinators. As a professional association, SAANYS is committed to providing direction, service, and support to the membership in their efforts to improve the quality of education and leadership 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).