Strahley Named NYS Middle School Principal of the Year

Windsor Central Middle School principal Kevin Strahley has been named the 2018 New York State Middle School Principal of the year by the School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS). He has also been named the New York State Principal of the Year by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

“It’s less about me and more about the culture we have in this building and this district,” said Strahley. “We have great kids and families, and an incredible faculty and staff. When you surround yourself with excellence it’s easy to look good.”
 
Kevin Strahley smiling, holding an open box 

District Superintendent Dr. Jason Andrews revealed Strahley’s honor to the school at a morning assembly March 22. The Middle School band also played Michael Jackson’s Thriller, a nod to Strahley’s fandom of Jackson’s work.

“I thought about moonwalking there but decided against it,” said Strahley.

Strahley has been principal at the Middle School for six years. He has implemented several innovative programs. Each morning, all students meet in small advisory groups to eat breakfast and participate in discussions, competitions, and community service projects.

Additionally, rather than including a study hall in the students’ schedules during the day, all students are offered a chance to attend a class period at the end of the day known as Mod 11. During Mod 11, students are able to participate in enrichment classes, clubs, as well as have the opportunity to attend learning centers for extra academic help, hosted by a team of teachers.

“This award shows the type of great leadership Mr. Strahley has given to the District and given to our students. His leadership focuses on student success,” said Dr. Andrews. “He’s one of the most genuine, kind, selfless leaders I’ve seen.”

“I’m overjoyed by this. Mr. Strahley has definitely been here for all of us. Anytime any of us has been struggling we can always go to his office and he’ll help,” said 8th grader Ava Sacco.
 
Kevin Strahley holding a microphone standing at the front of an auditorium 

The Middle School has been honored for the past six years as a Model School by “All Things PLC” and was one of ten National Model Middle Schools to present at the 25th Annual Model School Conference.

Strahley will be honored for his accomplishments at a May awards ceremony in Albany. Strahley has also been chosen as the New York State representative for the National Principal of the Year Award sponsored by NASSP.

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