Departing principal gets praise

Beacon search for new leader is under way

By Maeleeke J. Lavan
Poughkeepsie Journal

BEACON -- Thank you cards lining the window of Principal Roy Reese's office testify to the effect he's had on the Beacon school district.

But the cards won't be making the trip to the new high school building -- nor will the principal: Reese has decided the time has come to pass the baton.

''It was just time,'' he said. ''I truthfully believe it wouldn't be good for me to go and put my imprint on the new school. It's time for a new principal to come in.''

The district recently completed construction of a new high school building, which will open in September.

Reese is leaving Beacon, but not the field of education. He said he hopes to have a job in Orange, Sullivan or Ulster County -- closer to home -- by the end of the summer.

Giving a new principal a chance and cutting some time off of his 41-mile commute contributed to Reese's decision to leave, which was formally announced on June 24. His last day is July 26.

A man for everyone

Reese came out of retirement three years ago to join the staff at the high school and the effect he's had on the staff and students is clear.

Students don't cringe when they see Reese in the hallway, they say hello.

Staff members have said Reese is nothing less than a role model and friend.

''It's breaking my heart,'' said Brenda Alston, assistant principal. ''I feel like I'm losing a mentor. I still feel like he has a lot to tell me and show me.''

His ability to work with students in an honest, sincere way are only two of several qualities Alston said she'll miss from Reese.

District Superintendent Vito DiCesare said Reese did a remarkable job coming into a transitioning building and being part of developments for the new building.

''I think he felt a sense of camaraderie between faculty and students,'' DiCesare said. ''He will be missed.''

The district has begun the search for a new principal that will ''set a leadership by role-modeling the use of technology.''

Between 20 and 35 applications have come across DiCesare's desk from as far as Iowa; including many applicants from the Hudson Valley and upstate New York.

The interviewing and screening process is ongoing, DiCesare said, and will include the search for a well-rounded individual. DiCesare said he hopes to have a decision made for the school board's approval by the Aug. 26 meeting.

''We're looking for someone that has the ability to work with people ... and believes in a community base,'' he said. ''We want a strong academic background and strong administrative skills. At first blush, we have a strong selection ,and I'm very optimistic we're going to find an outstanding person.''