Merrick names Birch School principal

At the Merrick Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, school officials announced that Birch School will soon have a new principal with a familiar face -- Vice Principal Kerri Schlissel.

Schlissel was one of 56 applicants for the job, according to district Superintendent Dr. Ranier Melucci, who said, “We are ready to support her in all her endeavors.”

The vice principal of three years drew a crowd of Birch staff and family members to the board meeting ready to show their support -- some even carrying congratulatory signs.

Schlissel replaces former principal Eric S. Arlin, who was tapped for director of pupil services in the district’s central office last summer. Robert Cohen has acted as interim principal for the 2009-10 school year while the district conducted interviews for a full-time replacement.

Melucci called the heavy competition for the Birch School principal’s position an indication of Schlissel’s qualifications. Board Trustee Susan Schwartz also gave a warm vote of confidence, saying she was sure Schlissel “will continue to lead Birch in a way I’ve gotten used to.”

Comments about this story? SZeidler@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 236.