Meet New FAMS Principal, Mr. Keiser

Joseph Keiser joined the Franklin Lakes School District as the new principal at Franklin Avenue Middle School last month. Before coming to FAMS, Keiser served as the assistant principal at Robert R. Lazar Middle School in Montville. Patch had the opportunity to sit down with him at his recent welcome party. Here's what he had to say: 

Mr. Keiser, thank you for taking the time to speak with Patch. Out of curiosity, where did you grow up?

JK: I was born in Irvington but grew up in North Plainfield, which is about one and a half hours from here. It is a smaller town, but very diverse.

What was your favorite subject in middle school?

JK: I would say Social Studies.  My Social Studies teacher Mr Ferguson really took an interest in me and helped me become a better student.

What were you like in middle school? Were you in any cliques?

JK: No, no cliques. I was an energetic kid, kind of a wise guy but nothing real bad. And, I said before, Mr Ferguson, my Social Studies teacher took an interest in me and helped guide me so that I could reach my full potential.

Did you play sports in school? Which ones?

JK: Yes, I played baseball, basketball, soccer and cross country. I also continued to play baseball and basketball throughout college.

Do you prefer Dunkin Donuts or Starbucks? 

JK: Well, I don’t like coffee. So I would say Dunkin Donuts.  I really love a good cup of Hot Chocolate (old fashion kind)

What do you see as the key issues for educating middle schoolers in the 21st Century?

JK: Social Media has become such an integral part of the children’s lives, I want the kids to be conscious of the ramifications of things that are said, typed, tweeted etc.  I want them to understand that things that they put on the web affects people.

What role would you like to see parents play in their children's education? 

JK: I want the parents to continue to support and push their kids to be responsible. We need to teach the children to be responsible for their actions.

Ok, what’s your favorite band/singer?

JK: Dave Matthews, of course.

I can see from your keychain that you are a Mets fan…

JK: Yes, I’m a big Mets fan.

How about football? Who’s your team?

JK: I have to say…Philadelphia Eagles. Don’t ask me why, but that’s my team.

That’s fine with me, because I’m an Eagles fan too. Thank you so much and we are very happy to have you here.

JK: I’m very happy to be here. Thank you.