Ridgewood Principal Hopes His Children's Books Make Kids Smile

RIDGEWOOD, NJ — Paul Semendinger has a simple philosophy: Just make kids smile. It's how he approaches his job and it's why he write his books.

Semendinger is the principal of Hawes Elementary School and the author of two "Principal Sam" children's books.

"They're somewhat autobiographical. I'm a humorous kind of guy," Semendinger said. "They're about a principal who gets simple things confused, like what equipment to wear for different sports. The heroes of the books are the kids who set the principal straight."

Semendinger wrote the books in a way so that the kids reading the books can relate to the kids in them.

"That's what's so fun about the 'Principal Sam' books, the guy can be a good principal and run the school great, but he can still get confused, and that's OK," Semendinger said. "The kids teach him a lot."

What gives him the greatest joy is seeing kids smile when they read his books. Just like he is at work.

"I just want kids to be happy. I love it when kids smile and laugh and have a good time and that's what I want the books to do," Semendinger said. "I'm the happiest guy going to work. We have great kids and great parents. Hawes is the most remarkable school. I love it."

Semendinger has authored a book for adults titled "Impossible Is An Illusion." The book is based off of memos he sends to Hawes' teachers and staff.

"It's about what makes people good and what we can do to make the world better," Semendinger said.

All of Semendinger books are available through Amazon.

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Photos: Hawes Elementary School Principal Paul Semendinger and the covers of the three books he has authored. (Courtesy of Paul Semendinger)