Neighbor News
Todd Elementary Principal Nadine McDermott Announces Retirement
During her tenure, Todd achieved International Habits of Mind School of Excellence, NYS Rewards School, and The National Blue Ribbon Award
Todd Elementary School Principal Nadine McDermott has announced her retirement effective June 30, 2018 following 14 years in Briarcliff Schools.
Since joining the Briarcliff team in 2004, Mrs. McDermott served in three administrative roles: middle school assistant principal, district director of performing arts and the principal of Todd Elementary School. During her tenure, as District Director of Performing Arts from 2006-2008, she made significant improvements within the department that included staffing, curriculum and facilities. While at BMS, Mrs. McDermott’s work with Habits of Mind resulted in her and two colleagues being selected by Drs. Costa and Kallick, authors of Habits of Mind, to present with them at the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) International Conference in 2009. At Todd, she enabled the school to achieve International Habits of Mind School of Excellence Certification, New York State Department of Education Rewards School for highest achievement in the State every year from 2012 through 2018, and transformed Todd School by providing assured experiences for all students through the implementation of Reading Street, Primary Mathematics, Makerspace and Habits of Mind. And last but not least, she was instrumental in both BMS and Todd receiving the National Blue Ribbon Award for Exemplary Performance in 2005 and 2016 respectively.
In announcing her retirement, Mrs. McDermott said, “My time in Briarcliff for the last 14 years has been a blessing, leaving me with fond memories to cherish. At this moment, I have had the privilege of influencing the lives of every Briarcliff student currently enrolled in the district. As my career in public school administration comes to a close, I am confident that my legacy at Todd School and the district will continue to serve as a model for the Briarcliff community for many years to come.”
“My position in Briarcliff was both challenging and rewarding, the support of my superintendents, the Board of Education, teachers and staff, and Briarcliff families has made each day one I will cherish,” she added.
The School District and Board of Education have begun a thorough and broad search for Mrs. McDermott’s successor and will engage the community as well as faculty and staff in the process. Dr. Kaishian and Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction and Personnel, Mr. Edgar McIntosh have begun an extensive search to find the next Principal of Todd. After careful screenings, successful candidates will be brought to meet with a committee of teachers, parents and administrators. While the membership involved in the committee process will be limited, the District is interested in receiving input from a wider audience concerning their hopes and priorities. A select slate of top candidates will then meet separately with committees of teachers, parents and community members, and administrators before finalists are interviewed by the Board of Education.
It is anticipated that Mrs. McDermott’s successor will be announced this spring, allowing time for a smooth transition.
