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Riverhead BOE approves new middle school principal

A familiar face returned to Riverhead Middle School last week.

Stephen Hudson was appointed principal of Riverhead Middle School after the board unanimously approved his hiring at a Jan. 8 board meeting. His contract is expected to run through Jan. 8, 2023.

“This is my 14th year in the Riverhead School District,” he wrote in an email, noting he had previously been director of professional personnel. “I honestly believe this is a fantastic district with amazing, talented and bright students.”

Mr. Hudson will be receiving an annual starting salary of $184,562.

Mr. Hudson’s tenure in the district started as vice principal of the middle school. He worked as the associate principal at Phillips Avenue Elementary for three years and Pulaski Street School for four years. He said his time at the elementary schools have contributed to his connection with the Riverhead community.

“These experiences have strengthened my understanding of students’ social emotional experiences as well as the need to bridge our curriculum from grade to grade,” he said in an email. “Although brief, my time spent in the district office gave me a wonderful view of the entire district and how all the pieces fit.”

Mr. Hudson succeeds Andrea Pekar, who resigned last month after 28 years to accept a position as assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction within the Amityville Union Free School District.

One of his major goals, Mr. Hudson said, will be focusing on student safety and pushing for academic success.

“It feels like coming home,” he said. “I have wonderful relationships already built from my previous time and I look forward to getting to know our newer staff.”

Photo caption: Stephen Hudson was formally appointed as Riverhead Middle School principal Jan. 8. (Credit: Kate Nalepinski)

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