Podesta Hendrick Hudson’s New Assistant Principal
Margaret Podesta has been appointed the new assistant principal of the Blue Mountain Middle School, part of the Hendrick Hudson School District, in Cortlandt Manor. Podesta is replacing Jonathan Brown who left the district to become the principal of White Plains Middle School’s Highlands campus.
Prior to her new role, Podesta was a member of the Furnace Woods Elementary faculty for over twenty years.
“Margaret is an effective educator and consummate leader, steadfastly focused on student achievement and success,” a statement released by the district said. “Her experience working with a diverse staff over numerous grade levels and through the Horizon program made her an ideal candidate to fill this important role.”
In addition to her work in the district, Podesta has taught undergraduate composition classes and graduate classes in the teaching of writing at several local colleges.
Podesta was chosen out of a pool of over 200 candidates.
“Through the process, Margaret impressed us with her knowledge of curriculum and instruction, her respect for colleagues and love of children, and her grace and warmth,” remarked Dr. Alice Gottlieb, assistant superintendent of curriculum, instruction and professional personnel. “By the end of an intensive day of interviews, Margaret emerged as the strongest candidate in a very talented pool of educators.”
Podesta received her school district leader and school building leader certification from the BOCES/ Bank Street College Future School Leaders program. In addition to her administrative certifications she holds a Master’s in Education degree in language and literacy from City College of New York as well as degrees in psychology and elementary education from SUNY Potsdam.
“When Margaret entered the Administrative program two years ago we knew she had great potential as a school leader. She had already served the district on several curriculum committees and on the Strategic Planning Team, and she enjoyed the respect of the Furnace Woods community,” said Gottlieb. “Although she surely has big shoes to fill as the new assistant principal of Blue Mountain, we are confident that she, along with Mr. Owens, will lead Blue Mountain to new heights,” she concluded.
“I am so thrilled and truly honored to be joining the Blue Mountain Middle School community,” Podesta said.” I have always been so proud to be a teacher in this wonderful district, and now I can’t wait to start my new journey as a school leader.”
Podesta officially became the assistant principal on July 1.
Adam has worked in the local news industry for the past two decades in Westchester County and the broader Hudson Valley. Read more from Adam’s author bio here.