Being a principal is often like flying a jetliner. Sometimes you hit some turbulence and sometimes there are blue skies. Regardless of what lies ahead, every flight takes both a pilot and a copilot to make the trip successful. The same holds true for schools. A principal’s job is much more challenging without the help of an excellent assistant principal. In fact, the assistant principal plays a vital role that is often overlooked but is a role that fulfills many duties and responsibilities. The job of the assistant principal is one that focuses on everything from parking, discipline, and testing to ensuring that the entire building is running smoothly. It’s a demanding job and one that not everyone can handle.

This year, I have been fortunate enough to work with two excellent Assistant Principals at Putnam Valley High School. When I arrived at Putnam Valley in August, the first day of school was around the corner. Thankfully, there was an established Assistant Principal, Mr. Oliverio, who knew all the ‘ins and outs” of Putnam Valley High School. He was the perfect person to help me get on my feet, and get the school open for September. I never needed to worry because he had everything well under control. Although we only worked for a short time together, I am grateful for all of the help and guidance that he provided me.

Most recently, Mr. Ryan Odell, a veteran teacher, has moved into the position of Putnam Valley, Assistant Principal, and I am overjoyed to have the opportunity to work with him! He is a dedicated educator who is committed to serving others and improving our school with me. During his interview, he was asked, “what tool would he describe himself as” and without hesitation, he stated, “a table saw because it can do everything.” And.. was he right! There is no doubt in my mind, that indeed, he can do everything!

In a short amount of time, he has shown himself to be exceptional at everything thrown before him. With the ability to see the “big picture,” he has helped me to improve many systems and programs within the school that needed polishing. He has exceptional attention to detail and completes his duties thoroughly and efficiently. As a drummer and artisan, he has the tremendous creativity that he uses to redesign documents, presentations and classrooms to make everything he touches more pleasing to the eye. He loves students as much as I do and sees himself as someone who can help students navigate through those challenging adolescent times. He is compassionate, caring and friendly. Characteristics that make it easy for students and teachers to seek him out for guidance and share their voice on important issues. Most importantly, he has a great sense of humor, a critical ingredient for making the workplace fun and satisfying. He is an excellent sounding board and has great wisdom that helps ensure we always make the best possible decisions for our school.

Principals face many pressures. However, a skilled assistant principal relieves those stresses with ease by knowing just what to do and say. As Nelson Mandela said, “ A good head and a good heart make a formidable combination” and that is exactly why I couldn’t be luckier to have Mr. Odell (@rodellvp) as my copilot!