East Rockaway UFSD’s Board of Education has appointed Neil Lederer as interim principal of Centre Avenue Elementary School, effective Mar. 14.

Mr. Lederer is no stranger to East Rockaway, having previously served as interim principal of East Rockaway Junior-Senior High School during the 2017-18 school year. In a short amount of time, he made a tremendous impact on the school community, building strong relationships with students, staff and families. His leadership and experience left a lasting impression, and the district is excited to welcome him back to serve in this important role.

Mr. Lederer has dedicated his career to supporting students and educators. He began his journey in 1976 as assistant principal of Lindenhurst Junior High School, later advancing to principal roles at Lindenhurst Senior High School, Oldfield Middle School and Harborfields Senior High School. In addition, he was an elementary school interim principal in the West Hempstead UFSD. He ultimately served as superintendent of schools in the Lindenhurst UFSD for seven years before transitioning to various interim principal and superintendent positions throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties.

Mr. Lederer holds a master’s degree in educational administration and supervision from New York University and a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Long Island University.

East Rockaway’s Superintendent James DeTommaso expressed his enthusiasm for Mr. Lederer’s appointment, stating, Neil Lederer has not only been an inspiration for me in my career but a true leader in every sense of the word. The Centre Avenue community is in excellent hands, for Mr. Lederer has a wealth of experience and passion for working with staff and students.

It is truly very special for me to once again serve the East Rockaway School District,” said Mr. Lederer. “It is a district I have a great deal of admiration and respect for. I have often shared that my time at East Rockaway Jr/Sr High School was a highlight of my close to 60 years in public education. Thank you for this opportunity to work with the Center Avenue students, faculty and staff.”

East Rockaway UFSD looks forward to Mr. Lederer’s leadership at Centre Avenue Elementary School and the positive impact he will bring to the students, staff and families.