Staff and Families:

It is with competing sentiments that I inform you of my decision to resign as Principal of Rippowam Middle School. Although it is clear to me that I will never experience the unique joys I have while at #RippIB, I am excited about the next phase in my professional career.  As many of you may or may not know I live in NY City with my wife and three young children.  Frequently, my wife and I contemplate decisions that we feel will benefit our family and place us in better circumstances.  This is one of those decisions and one that does not come easily.

Over the last four years I have devoted "my why" to Stamford's children.  Along the way, I was fortunate enough to work side by side with Stamford's finest teachers, parents, secretaries, custodians and administrators.  It is only due to the support of these people that I feel confident enough to take on my next role as a high school principal in Floral Park, N.Y.  Please know that my heart will always be with Stamford not only because of the intense learning I encountered but more so due to the relationships I have cultivated. There is no doubt that I will miss it all.  

Lastly, I will forever be indebted to Stamford's families.  As an International Baccalaureate (IB) school we frequently speak about the IB learner trait of open-mindedness.  There is no training that can prepare an administrator for the spectrum of culture within Stamford.  All one can do is shower within the rays of Stamford's culture and diversity and embrace the variance.  It is the most beautiful aspect of working in Stamford and I am a better person because of my time here.

Although we have not finalized the specific date for my departure, please know I am confident in the district’s commitment to making the right choice of leadership for Rippowam.  An Interim Principal will be selected for the remainder of this school year with the intent of identifying a permanent Principal in the spring of 2018. The district will be asking for your input as part of our interview process.  

It truly has been an honor to serve the community of Stamford.  

Warm Regards,

 Jason Martin