Great Neck Board appoints Tom DePaola as North High principal and Jerry DeCarlo at South High

The Great Neck Public Schools Board of Education convened on March 12, 2025, to address several key personnel changes and community concerns. The meeting began with the approval of labor agreements for two new leadership positions aimed at enhancing the educational environment as the school year draws to a close.

The board announced the appointment of Tom DePaola as the acting principal of North High School, effective Monday. DePaola, who has served as the assistant principal at South High School, was praised for his professionalism and ability to foster positive relationships with students. His transition was met with enthusiasm, as he expressed gratitude for the opportunity and highlighted the supportive culture within the Great Neck community.

In a related move, the board approved a labor agreement with Jerry DeCarlo, who will take over DePaola's role at South High School. DeCarlo brings extensive experience as a high school principal and expressed excitement about joining a dedicated team focused on academic excellence.

The meeting also included a public comment session where community members voiced their concerns. A student, Kevin Qua, advocated for the reinstatement of a beloved evening security guard, emphasizing the positive impact this individual had on student safety and morale. Another student, Yoo Jin Sun, inquired about recent changes to school security policies, specifically regarding the hiring of security personnel with law enforcement backgrounds. The administration clarified that this initiative aims to enhance safety while maintaining a supportive environment for students.

Additionally, community member Evelyn Wang raised concerns about the lack of traditional textbooks in the curriculum, suggesting a shift towards online resources could hinder students' preparedness for college-level reading. This sentiment was echoed by other parents who emphasized the importance of balancing digital learning with traditional methods.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the board to consider the community's feedback and continue fostering an environment conducive to student success. The board expressed appreciation for the ongoing support from parents and community members as they navigate these changes.