Jericho Principal Named NYS Elementary Principal of the Year

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Tony Sinanis

ALBANY, NY (03/20/2014)(readMedia)-- Tony Sinanis, principal and "lead learner" at Cantiague Elementary School in the Jericho Union Free School District, has been selected as the 2014 New York State Elementary Principal of the Year by the School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS) and the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP). This award is given annually to a member of SAANYS and NAESP who has set the pace, character, and quality of education for the children 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.

Sinanis has served in his current position at Cantiague for the past six years, in which time he has been credited for creating an environment of trust, transparency, and exceptional dedication to each and every student. When asked about his philosophy for creating an opportune environment for teaching and learning, Sinanis stated, "I wanted the students to trust that I would advocate for them. I wanted the staff to trust that I would consider their perspectives when making decisions. I wanted the families to know that I would love and take care of their children as if they were my own."

Commented Superintendent of Schools Henry Grishman, "The respect that he has earned district-wide within the area of curriculum and instruction has led to major and profound changes in the areas of literacy instruction and assessment." He continued, "... the teaching staff and school community absolutely love and admire him." Under Sinanis' leadership, Cantiague was named a 2012 Blue Ribbon School by the US Department of Education.

Sinanis has been described by colleagues as "a maverick in using social media and electronic communications," extending his professional learning network for the benefit of all and "flattening the walls" of the school to parents and community. Parents have responded. "He is playing outside with the children every recess period," said parent Lisa Davis. "He is in the classroom, sometimes teaching lessons! He is with our children at their highest highs, and at their lowest lows. They seek him. He embodies a perfect balance of skill and heart."

Sinanis received his bachelors of science degree in elementary education from New York University, his masters in educational technology and advanced certification in administration from the New York Institute of Technology, and is currently working toward his doctorate degree in education.

Sinanis will be honored for his accomplishments at an awards ceremony on May 9 at the Century House in Latham, New York. As New York's Elementary School Principal of the Year, Sinanis will be celebrated as a National Distinguished Principal by the National Association of Elementary School Principals at a recognition program sponsored by NAESP and VALIC this fall in Washington, DC.

SAANYS represents nearly 7,200 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).

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