The Yorktown Difference

Energized to begin another outstanding school year, hundreds of new and returning educators gathered in the Yorktown High School auditorium on Wednesday for an Opening Day presentation led by Superintendent Dr. Ron Hattar.

In addition to highlighting summer accomplishments, Dr. Hattar’s presentation centered on a theme he often hears from the school community: “Things are different here in Yorktown.”

“It’s a special, special place. And it’s a special place because of the great families in our community, great children that we get to work with each day, and you (the faculty). You make it a special place to come to work each day, you make it a special place to come to learn.”

But what exactly makes Yorktown so special? To answer that question, Dr. Hattar enlisted the help of three longtime staff members.

Mr. Michael Rescigno, a 25-year educator and longtime football coach at Yorktown, spoke about the District’s unique culture.

“When people ask me, ‘What’s the difference? What makes Yorktown so great?’ My answer is simple: It’s culture. In Yorktown, you’ll see every single player on our team, every single professional in this District, putting themselves second. It is our collective job to contribute to the feeling of confidence and pride every single day. That’s what we have here in Yorktown.”

Brookside teacher Mrs. Jessica LiCalzi emphasized that it's not just the “big initiatives” that make a difference at Yorktown.

“It’s the everyday moments. It’s the custodians who high-five the kids in the hallway; it’s the staff who greet students with a smile each morning; and it’s the administrators who tell a ‘Joke of the Week’ over the PA system.”

Mr. Diego Araujo, the District’s maintenance foreman, shared his journey as a native of Ecuador who arrived in the United States with nothing but “a dream and a will to work hard.” After a decade at a neighboring school district, Mr. Araujo joined Yorktown in 2009 as the head custodian of Yorktown High School, eventually rising to his current administrative role.

“I take a lot of pride in the District’s appearance, and I hope that you will find it as welcoming of a place as I do. I am very thankful to the District for providing me with opportunities for growth. Yorktown holds a special place in my heart. It’s different here.”

Throughout the school year, we will be sharing more stories that showcase what makes the Yorktown Central School District truly unique. Follow along with #TheYorktownDifference on our social media channels!