Islip School District Administrator Honored as Outstanding Educator

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James Cameron

ALBANY, NY (03/30/2023) (readMedia)-- ALBANY, NY – James Cameron, principal at Commack Road Elementary School in the Islip Union Free School District, has been selected for the 2023 Outstanding Educator Award by the School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS). This award is given annually to a SAANYS member who has made outstanding contributions in New York State schools through public education, professional organizations, or research and/or writing in the field of education.

Cameron says he believes that everyone plays a role in educating students. "No role or person is superior to another. The students, parents, teachers, paraprofessionals, clerical, custodians, maintenance, food service workers, computer technicians, bus drivers, crossing guards, and administrators, must work together to create a synergistic atmosphere and environment that benefits all students and families!"

Identifying one of his best practices as addressing hierarchal cultures head on, Cameron adds that "ln order for success to be possible, we must all show up, stand up, and speak up if we want to stand out as a community. By being your best self and treating others as you would like to be treated, you will be a role model, set an example, be there for each other, and hold each other accountable to create the best environment for all!"

Cameron serves on the SAANYS Board of Directors, as advocacy chair for the Suffolk County Elementary Principals' Association, as an officer of the lslip Association of School Administrators, and as a SAANYS representative on the NYSED Digital Learning Advisory Council.

"Mr. Cameron is kind, caring, funny and helpful, and these are just a few of the millions of words that describe Mr. Cameron." says Elizabeth Balsamo, a former student. She adds that "Mr. Cameron makes Commack Road Elementary a home."

Laura Rogacki, BOE Trustee, cites Cameron's work in developing "programs and support systems to meet the diverse learning needs of all students at CRES." She notes that she is "continually impressed by his broad knowledge and his ability to predict and respond to the needs of CRES families and students." In a culturally diverse building, Cameron "has created an environment of understanding and inclusivity, making students, parents, and staff alike welcomed and part of the CRES Community."

Curtis Juengerkes, Islip Middle School assistant principal, says that Cameron "exudes leadership." He adds that Cameron "has established district practice in support of the Islip children and families. Mr. Cameron, every day and always, can be observed supporting and serving the children and families who attend his building. He is a gifted and talented leader, which the district of lslip enjoys on a daily basis."

"Of the many educators who I have worked with across multiple districts and within leadership organizations," Edward Kemnitzer, assistant superintendent for instruction and personnel for the East Williston Union Free School District, says, "James Cameron stands out with his transparent and collective leadership that continues to inspire teachers, students, parents, colleagues, and members of his professional learning network."

Cameron began his career in education as a teaching assistant in 2003. He has served as principal of Commack Road Elementary School in Islip since 2017. He received his bachelor of science from Five Towns College, his master of science from the College of Mt Vincent, and a Post Master Advanced Certificate from Queens College.

Cameron and fellow 2023 award winners will be recognized at SAANYS' annual awards celebration, taking place on May 5 at the Crown Plaza Albany - Desmond Hotel.

SAANYS represents over 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).