Mr. Rickert Retiring

By: Maddy Ehrlich 

Each year brings changes. This is epitomized by the school's ever changing composition of students. There is a wave of new freshmen, and the leaving of seniors who for four years had made Niskayuna their home. Yet, despite the constant coming and going of students, the leadership has been a steady, reliable component of the school. Since 2001, Mr. Rickert has been principal of Niskayuna High School. Despite the continuous graduations and orientations that inevitably grace the Nisky campus each new school year, decisions are continuously made, at the forefront of these decisions, the administrative staff. However, this graduation season, after many years of hard work and dedication to the school, Mr. Rickert will be retiring. This is signaling another shift in the school’s composition, this time in regards to the school’s leadership, with Mr. Malizia to be the next principal. Despite his retiring, Mr. Rickert has had a lasting, important impact on Niskayuna High School and the school it has become. In an interview with Mr. Rickert, he was able to share about his journey to Niskayuna, what he will miss most about the school, and some final parting words for the students. 

When asked what has been his favorite memory at Niskayuna High School, Mr. Rickert said there are too many to name just one. But, some that have greatly stood out to him over the years were having the opportunity to present several students with their scholarships; the many wonderful graduation ceremonies; hosting the VFW Memorial Day Services on campus; being a part of the Nisky Friends event; having a 95-year old veteran receive his diploma at Nisky’s graduation. Each of these moments are unique, representing the countless opportunities on Nisky’s campus that stretch from its founding to today. As Mr. Rickert stated, one of the aspects of the job he will miss most are the “the students and the many wonderful people that work in our building.” 

Mr. Rickert shared that he first came to Niskayuna in 1994 as a football coach, where he really took to working with the student-athletes. This inspired him to apply to Niskayuna to become a teacher. Then in 1999, he became an Assistant Principal. Mr. Rickert was inspired by the Principal at that time, Ed Carangelo, to become the Principal one day. And in 2001, he got that opportunity. There are many parts of being principal that are both challenging and rewarding. As Mr. Rickert said, “The most challenging aspect is providing the students with everything that they need within the budget constraints and the most rewarding aspect is being able to help students on a daily basis.” 

Some final words for the students Mr. Rickert shared was, “Niskayuna is a special place! Always be proud of your Niskayuna heritage. Believe in yourself and the magic of where you are from and always pursue your dreams!! Thank you all for a lifetime of memories!!” Even though Niskayuna High School is always changing, the students, faculty and administrators that have a part in the school leave lasting impacts beyond their time there. As Mr. Rickert retires, the school thanks him for all his work for Niskayuna!