Syosset High School Principal Dr. Giovanni Durante has been named Best School Principal on Long Island. Sponsored by Bethpage Federal Credit Union, the Best of Long Island poll covers categories such as arts and entertainment, education, food and much more. Voting is open annually on bestof.longislandpress.com.
“I am humbled and honored to receive such a prestigious award, and graciously accept it on behalf of my many colleagues, both inside and outside of the classroom, who work tirelessly to make a positive impact and difference in our school community,” said Durante. “Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote for me. I feel blessed to work in a supportive and cohesive school district like Syosset, where we are given the freedom to explore multiple perspectives and make a difference in our students’ lives.”
Durante began his career at Syosset High School in September 1994 as a teacher of world languages. After six years, he became the dean of discipline and two years later was promoted to assistant principal, a role he served for eight years before being appointed as principal, for which he is in his sixth year.
“It is obvious to everyone that Dr. Durante has a genuine appreciation for the students, staff and parents of the community. He is an enthusiastic, dedicated and progressive leader who takes the time to really know people and support them in any way he can,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Thomas Rogers. “Dr. Durante is an institution at Syosset High School and we value his leadership in all things large and small. On behalf of the Board of Education, I congratulate him for receiving this well-deserved recognition.”
Durante was honored with the St. John’s University’s Award for Outstanding Achievement as an Educational Leader in 2012, the school where he earned his Doctor of Education. He also served as the keynote speaker for the commencement ceremony of Stony Brook University’s department of European languages in 2014, where he earned his undergraduate degree. Durante is also a past recipient of the PTSA Founder’s Day Award, as well as the PTA Jenkins Award.
The official Best of Long Island 2016 guide is widely distributed across Nassau and Suffolk, including at every Bethpage Federal Credit Union location.
—Syosset Schools
