Pierre Van Cortlandt Middle School Assistant Principal Michael Plotkin has been named a 2015 New York State Assistant Principal of the Year by the School Administrators Association of New York State and the National Association of Elementary School Principals, a program that promotes educational excellence for pre-kindergarten through eighth-grade schooling and calls attention to the fundamental importance of the assistant principal.
Plotkin has served as an educator since 1993 and has been in his current position at PVC since 2007. Recognizing the unique social needs of middle school students, Plotkin established a very successful three-pronged approach to changing the culture of the school during his first year. He implemented the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program, Positive Behavior Intervention Support and a middle school advisory program, for which he wrote the curriculum.
School counselor Carrie Beja said, “His innate understanding of the students’ need for belonging and emotional closeness with both their peers and the adults around them has undoubtedly helped fuel this highly successful program. By also understanding that no child can ever learn unless they feel safe – physically, socially and emotionally – he has created an environment where all students can flourish and take risks.”
Plotkin is known as a committed and compassionate leader within his school.
“Pierre Van Cortlandt Middle School is truly a different place today because of the tireless and ongoing work of Michael Plotkin,” said Principal Barbara Ulm. “Thanks to his leadership, the school is a safe and welcoming place where students grow and thrive.”
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edward Fuhrman added, “Michael represents the best in our profession. He is a true educational leader who always keeps what’s best for children at the center of his work. Michael is a compassionate leader, a great teammate and a consummate professional.”
Plotkin received his bachelors and masters degrees in history from the City University of New York at Brooklyn College, and his advanced certification in school leadership from the Teachers College of Columbia University.
Plotkin will be honored for his accomplishments at an awards ceremony on May 8 at the Desmond Hotel and Conference Center in Albany, New York. As the New York State Assistant Principal of the Year for NAESP, Plotkin will be celebrated as a National Outstanding Assistant Principal at a recognition program sponsored by NAESP and VOYA Financial in Washington, D.C.
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