The Board of Education is pleased to announce the anticipated appointment of Jessica Santarpia as the new Principal at Rolling Hills Primary School. Mrs. Santarpia’s extensive background in childhood literacy and reading fundamentals, as well as her strong leadership, mentoring, and curriculum development skills set her apart from all other candidates for this important position.
After graduating from Hofstra University with a Master’s Degree in Literacy Studies, as well as earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from East Stroudsburg University, Mrs. Santarpia began her teaching career as a fifth grade teacher in the Valley Stream School District, serving in that position for five years. She then taught kindergarten for eight years, all the while continuing her own schooling and completing her Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Administration, also from Hofstra. Mrs. Santarpia is currently an Assistant Principal at an elementary school in Farmingdale, a position she has held since 2013.
Superintendent of Commack Schools, Dr. Donald James, feels that “Mrs. Santarpia will be an asset for our students and staff at Rolling Hills. After an extensive search and interview process by a committee of administrators, staff, and parents, we are confident that we chose a highly-qualified, childhood educator and professional that has all the characteristics we embrace as a District, and most importantly, the ability to encourage a love of learning in our youngest students.”
Mrs. Santarpia and her husband live in Fort Salonga, with three small children, ages six, five and one. She most enjoys spending time with her family, is an avid reader, and loves to ski. “I am thrilled to be joining the Rolling Hills learning community,” she said, “and I look forward to getting to know the children, families, and staff in Commack.”