Kennedy High principal to retire at end of school year

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John F. Kennedy High School's principal of more than two decades will retire at the end of the school year, Bellmore-Merrick district officials announced on Friday.

In a letter to parents, acting principal David Seinfeld made the announcement “with an array of mixed feelings.” Poppe, who took a leave of absence starting in September 2017, had hoped for her health to improve and to return, but recently decided to conclude her “long and storied career” on June 30, Seinfeld said.

“I've known Ms. Poppe for the past 15 years, and I can say without any hesitation that there is no educator I have met who is more dedicated to her school, the staff and its students,” Seinfeld added. “She loves Kennedy High School.”

Poppe has been recognized during her career at Kennedy by the Town of Hempstead, the Long Island Council of Administrators and Supervisors, the Bellmore-Merrick PTA, Nassau County and the State Education Department. Seinfeld added that Kennedy is one of few schools in the state designated a NYS Rewards School for four years consecutively, and 45 students have been recognized as Intel/Regeneron scholars during her tenure.

“Perhaps most telling of Ms. Poppe's dedication to Kennedy is that she had perfect attendance for 18 of her 24 years in the position,” Seinfeld said. “This is one incredible educator. I am proud to be considered her colleague.”