By Paul Wein
Taking the reins at the high school will be David Guttman, who, after an extensive search and interview process, was approved by the Board of Education of Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools at the district's board meeting on March 15.
Guttman's experience spans more than 15 years in high school education. He is currently assistant principal at Roslyn High, a position he has held since 2001. Before coming to Long Island, Guttman spent several years as an assistant principal at various New York City schools and eight years teaching English. He has a master's degree in educational administration and supervision from Baruch College, and undergraduate and master's degrees in theater arts from the University of California. He is New York state-certified to teach English, speech and administration.
"This is a big step forward for me - I'm thrilled," Guttman said. "Although I'm still here at Roslyn until June 30, I've already started the process of saying goodbye. Everyone has been so nice, offering me congratulations and good luck."
Guttman, a resident of Douglaston, Queens, said that the biggest challenge of his new position would be the position itself. "I've never been a principal before," he said. "Being the leader of a school entails so much responsibility. A high school is a complex entity. There is so much going on."
Dr. Les M. Omotani, superintendent of Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools, thinks Guttman is the perfect choice for the job. "It is clear that Mr. Guttman is a man of the highest ethical and moral character," he said. "He is described by students, parents and colleagues as firm, fair, honest, approachable, compassionate, supportive and involved - all qualities paramount in our search for a new high school principal. These characteristics, combined with his highly collaborative leadership style, will enable Mr. Guttman to be an outstanding educational leader for our high school faculty, staff, parents and students."
Bisso, who is excited to begin her new position but sad that she is leaving the high school, said she will miss her current role as the school's leader. "There was never a day when I didn't want to come here," she said. "Time goes quick when you're happy."
Asked why she would take a different position if she enjoys her current one so much, Bisso said that moving on is her nature. "There is something about my makeup that seeks new experiences," she said. "I enjoy stepping out of my comfort zone, and when this position presented itself, I was excited about working in a new dimension as an assistant superintendent."
The selection process for the principal's position included an online survey to solicit community members' ideas on the qualities of an outstanding educator and leader. Barbara Mattes, chairwoman of the school's business department and a member of the selection committee, said that Guttman was chosen because of "the combination of his intellect with his presentation as a good representative of the quality of Hewlett High School. I could see him standing in front of a crowd and saying to myself that I am proud to work with him."
Comments about this story? PWein@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 204.
