Kishore Kuncham, Freeport superintendent, is retiring

Kishore Kuncham, known for his child-centered approach to education and his transformative leadership as the superintendent of Freeport Public Schools, has announced his retirement. The Board of Education accepted his resignation on Dec. 6, and Kuncham, the first Indian-American superintendent in the state, will step down in August, bringing to an end a remarkable 30 years in the district.

Kuncham’s retirement marks the end of 15 years as superintendent, and he will leave a legacy of innovation and devotion to education and the community.

“We would like to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation to Dr. Kuncham for his many years of service and dedication to the success of our students and our entire school district,” Board of Education President Maria Jordan-Awalom said on behalf of the board in a statement.

“Our students have been the beneficiaries of your leadership and guidance,” she told Kuncham. “The foundations for excellence that have been established will continue to be the cornerstones for our students’ future success.”

Throughout his career, Kuncham has advocated for students’ holistic growth within and beyond academics. Under his guidance, the Freeport district reached record-high graduation rates and offered students a wide range of opportunities to make the most of their education.

His leadership in science research programs, collaboration with prestigious universities and support for arts and athletics has garnered statewide recognition. Kuncham also helped secured the district’s financial stability, as it maintained high bond ratings and boasted consecutive tax levy decreases.

Beyond the classroom, Kuncham’s humanitarian efforts included peace concerts, marches and walks, and initiatives promoting health and wellness. He also oversaw the construction of wellness centers designed to bolster student mental health, as well as cultivated an environment that prioritized mental wellness through the institutions of programs such as SKY breathing and Sources of Strength.

His influence extends beyond the district, as he has advocated for educational and fiscal equity on the regional and state levels.

His commitment to community service is evident in his involvement in organizations like Reform Educational Finance Inequities Today, United Way of Long Island, and the Nassau Community College Foundation. He has been recognized with a number of honors, including the Association of School Business Officials International Eagle Award, and was named the Herald Person of the Year in 2022.

“Together, we have achieved remarkable milestones and have led our school district to thrive and excel in the past many years,” Kuncham stated in a news release. “Freeport Schools is unquestionably the most memorable, most rewarding and proudest accomplishment of all my professional experiences, spanning over 46 years in both public and private sectors, of which 35 years were dedicated to public education.”