October marks National Principals Month. WBFO's senior reporter Eileen Buckley says Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown is recognizing four city school principals for their work in public schools.
"We are seeing real progress in Buffalo Public Schools,” remarked Mayor Brown.
Pointing out several improvements within the city School District, Mayor Brown appeared with four school principals in his City Hall office Wednesday. Brown thanked them for their role that is leading to successful student outcomes.
"Suspensions are down, attendance is up. We are seeing Math test scores up, English test scores up. We are seeing graduations rates up, so overall, seeing many things to celebrate in the Buffalo Public Schools,” stated Mayor Brown.
Frank Sedita Elementary School Principal Rafael Perez. He is a native of Puerto Rico, has a deep relationship with the Hispanic community in Buffalo. Perez answered our question about what the major challenge lies ahead at his school.
“To increase our ELA scores by ten percent. It’s not an easy task and I believe that one of our biggest tasks is to maintain the momentum – to make sure we keep the energy, we keep the positivity and we keep the high expectations for the children,” responded Perez.
Acting McKinley Principal Marck Abraham was honored for his assistance in helping to establish the Urban Teacher Academy with SUNY Buffalo State.
Hamlin Park Principal Patrick Cook was honored. He attributes a turnaround and improved academic success to his dedicated staff and district leadership.
South Park principal Terri Schuta was recognized for working with her staff on 'school accountability', resulting in a 10-percent increase in the graduation rate over last several years at South Park.
The Mayor also thanked all city school principals for their work in helping students improve declaring October as National Principal Month in the city of Buffalo.