On April 4 the Board of Education appointed Mohonasen school district administrator Luke Rakoczy as Van Antwerp Middle School principal. The appointment was effective July 1.

"Mr. Rakoczy has extensive knowledge of teaching and learning at the middle school level," said Superintendent Kevin Baughman. "He brings a high level of energy and enthusiasm to leading the Van Antwerp school community and working with our excellent faculty and staff."

Rakoczy said he was excited about the appointment. "I am grateful for the opportunity to join a district of such renown. I am eager to begin working with the Van Antwerp teachers, staff and parents to maintain a strong community of learners and provide an effective, exciting middle level experience for students."

Rakoczy succeeds Principal Anthony Brandone, who is retiring in June after more than 16 years of service to the district. Baughman's recommendation to appoint Rakoczy followed an extensive search process that included input from parents, staff and administrators.

Rakoczy has been K-12 Administrator for Social Studies in the Mohonasen Central School District since 2003. Previously he was a social studies teacher at Farnsworth Middle School in the Guilderland school district for about six years. While at Mohonasen, he has held additional duties, including leading the districtwide mentoring program. He has also been a frequent presenter at staff development workshops throughout the Capital Region.

Rakoczy has a bachelor's degree in American history/anthropology and a master's degree in secondary social studies education from the University at Albany. He has School Administrator and Supervisor certification from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts.

Rakoczy resides in Glenmont.

to top