New Principal Named For Earl L. Vandermeulen High

The Port Jefferson School District has named Christine Austen as the new principal of Earl L. Vandermeulen High School.

“We are extremely pleased to welcome Ms. Austen as our new high school principal,” Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Bossert said. “Her strong educational background will help serve her as she takes the helm at our high school and continues our tradition of educational excellence and Royal Pride.”

Austen is equally excited to take on her new role as principal of the school in which she graduated.

“It is wonderful to be given this opportunity to come home and give back to the community this way,” she said.

As principal, Austen said she plans to continue to maintain the important connection the school district has with the community and ensure that every student is college and career-ready through individualized learning opportunities. Additionally, she intends to enhance the high school experience for students through the introduction of new technology-related courses and instituting Google classrooms.

“Our goal is to prepare our students with skills that will last a life-time,” Austen said.

Austen previously served in the district as dean of students, technology integration specialist and library media specialist. She is also a member of the district’s Safety Committee, Code of Conduct Committee and Professional Development Committee, among others.

Austen, who is a mother of three, holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Stony Brook University and a master’s degree in library science from LIU Post. She also holds an advanced certificate in educational computing and administration from Stony Brook University and is the recipient of the 2008 C.W. Post Educator of the Year Award.

Photo courtesy of the Port Jefferson School District