South Huntington Board of Education President Honored with SAANYS Friend of Education Award

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Nicholas Ciappetta, President of the Board of Education for South Huntington UFSD

ALBANY, NY (04/02/2026) (readMedia)-- Nicholas Ciappetta, president of the board of education for the South Huntington Union Free School District, has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 SAANYS Friend of Education Award. This award is given to an individual, group, or organization that has consistently contributed to the support and advancement of outstanding public education and the students of New York State.

Ciappetta has served the South Huntington community for more than two decades as a trustee and for the past nine years as board of education president. His leadership is defined by a steadfast commitment to expanding academic opportunities, strengthening school-community connections, and ensuring that all students have access to a high-quality education.

One of Ciappetta's most significant endeavors has been supporting academic outcomes while increasing the rigor and accessibility of coursework. Under his leadership, the South Huntington team has expanded its Advanced Placement (AP) program to include 31 courses, placing the district among the top on Long Island. In addition to increasing course offerings, the district focused on broadening participation among all student groups. As a result, the number of students taking AP exams has grown significantly, with notable increases among Black and Hispanic students, while also raising the percentage of students earning scores of 3 or higher. Nearly half of all high school students now take at least one AP course during their academic careers.

Ciappetta notes that these efforts are rooted in a commitment to equity and opportunity, ensuring that "students are encouraged to challenge themselves while receiving the support they need to succeed." The district's success in expanding access and achievement earned South Huntington a 2023 Magna Silver Award from the National School Boards Association.

In addition to academic advancements, Ciappetta has led the change to modernize school facilities, enhancing learning experiences and better preparing students for future careers. Over the past several years, the district has invested in innovative learning spaces, including a cybersecurity lab, marine biology research facility, media production center, and art gallery. The board also supported the introduction of advanced medical technology through life-sized virtual dissection tables, providing students with hands-on experiences typically found in professional and research settings. This forward-thinking approach earned the district recognition through multiple Champions of Change awards from the New York State School Boards Association.

A hallmark of Ciappetta's leadership is his strong emphasis on visibility, recognition, and community engagement. He maintains an active presence at school events, from concerts and athletic competitions to academic ceremonies, reinforcing his belief that schools should serve as "a source of community pride and connection." He also ensures that student and staff achievements are regularly highlighted at board of education meetings and through districtwide recognition efforts, including the creation of the "Key to the South Huntington School District" award.

Dr. John Murphy, principal of Walt Whitman High School, praised Ciappetta's impact, stating, "Board of Education President Nicholas Ciappetta has been a steadfast friend to education, consistently balancing the evolving needs of our students with the priorities of the broader South Huntington community." He added that "his inclusive, collaborative approach ensures that every voice is valued, every challenge is met with purpose, and our collective success is a direct reflection of his unwavering commitment to fostering a community where all can thrive."

Ciappetta's dedication to public service extends beyond his role on the Board of Education. He has served as a longtime member and leader within the Nassau-Suffolk School Boards Association and has been recognized for his contributions with honors including the SCOPE School Board Service Award and the Suffolk County Martin Luther King Jr. Public Service Award.

Ciappetta and fellow 2026 award winners will be recognized at SAANYS' annual awards celebration, taking place on May 1 at the Desmond Hotel – Crowne Plaza in Albany.

SAANYS represents nearly 22,000 school administrators, supervisors, and retiree leaders. 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).