Interim Principal Joseph Mazzetti

I've been an administrator in the Poughkeepsie City School District since 2006, most recently I served as the principal at P.A.C.E. Academy from 2016-2020. Prior to becoming an administrator in 2016, I was a Social Studies teacher.

Malcom X said, "Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today." It is one of my favorite quotes.

My educational experiences have given me the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse group of people to meet the common goal of increasing student achievement and well-being. I have an uncompromising belief that all students can learn given a positive learning environment, strong and knowledgeable leadership, a committed and focused educational team, an encouraging community and a supportive family. Together, we are Champions for Children in Poughkeepsie City Schools.

I hold a Concentration in Educational Administration from NY State University of New York at New Paltz, Master of Arts from Marist College, Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from NY State University of New York at New Paltz, and an associate degree in Applied Science from Hudson Valley Community College. 

Assistant Principals

Kenneth Behr, Grade 8

I'm in my third year as an Assistant Principal at the Poughkeepsie Middle School.  The past two years I've served as the assistant principal of the seventh grade and this year I'm eagerly transitioning to the role of eighth grade Assistant Principal.  In my role, I intend to have all students ready and prepared to embark on a successful High school career.  Prior to joining the Poughkeepsie City School District, I served as a physical education and health teacher for the New York City Department of Education.  I've also coached many sports teams including varsity football, wrestling and softball.  I believe in focusing on the positive and that all students can be successful when provided the opportunity.

I hold certifications in physical education K-12 from West Virginia University and school building leader from SUNY Cortland as well as degrees from CUNY York and CUNY Lehman.

Jenna Ferris, Grade 7

  I am honored to be able to take this opportunity to briefly introduce myself. I have spent my  entire professional career working with secondary school students. I was a Special Education    teacher at both the middle and high school levels and for the past three years have been an  Assistant Principal at Poughkeepsie High School. I am committed to working closely with   teachers, parents, and community members to ensure our children achieve their full  potential. My leadership style is defined by a steadfast commitment to mutual respect and     collaboration while maintaining the highest of expectations for others and myself. Gaining  cooperation and building commitment through dialogue and the development of a common   vision is a priority for me as an educational leader. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Rhetoric English from SUNY Binghamton University, a Master's Degree in Adolescent Education from Mercy   College, and a Master's Degree in School Building Leadership from Mercy College. I hold an Initial Certification in School Building Leadership-Professional issued in August of 2021, and a Professional Certification in Students with Disabilities grades 7-12

 TBA, Grade 6