Half Hollow Hills Announces New Administrative Appointments for the 2025–2026 School Year

The Half Hollow Hills Central School District is pleased to announce the appointment of several new administrators for the 2025–2026 school year. These leaders bring a wealth of experience, dedication, and a shared commitment to academic excellence, equity, and innovation.

The following individuals have been appointed to new leadership roles:

• Adetokunbo Kareem Agoro, Assistant Principal of Half Hollow Hills High School East
• Nicole Alexander, Executive Director for Technology and Libraries
• Rebecca A. Campbell, Assistant Principal of West Hollow Middle School
• Lorraine Lupinskie, Executive Director for Secondary Curriculum and Instruction
• Jennifer Pearson, Assistant Principal of the Hills Academy
• Paul Perskin, Principal of Half Hollow Hills High School East
• Melissa Polzella, Assistant Principal of Sunquam Elementary School
• Eric Seely, Athletic Director
• Heather Shook, Executive Director of Special Education
• Jeanne Zodda, Executive Director for Elementary Curriculum and Instruction

Commitment to Excellence in Education

Half Hollow Hills remains dedicated to fostering exceptional leadership that supports academic success, equity, and student well-being. Each of these appointments reflects the district’s mission to provide all students with equitable opportunities to thrive in a dynamic and supportive learning environment.

“As we prepare for a new chapter in Half Hollow Hills, these appointments represent our continued investment in thoughtful, student-centered leadership,” said Mr. John O’Farrell, the Half Hollow Hills Superintendent of Schools. “Each individual brings a unique perspective and a shared dedication to fostering innovation, equity, and excellence. I look forward to the impact they will have as we move the district forward together.”

Adetokunbo Kareem Agoro, Assistant Principal of Half Hollow Hills High School East

Mr. Agoro joins Half Hollow Hills High School East as Assistant Principal. He began his career at Elmont Memorial High School, teaching history and coaching varsity football, and most recently served as Assistant Principal for the Sewanhaka Central High School District’s Summer School Program. Mr. Agoro has also led programs such as Men of Elmont and My Brother’s Keeper, supporting student leadership and mentorship.

He earned a Bachelor of Arts in History and a Master of Science in Secondary Education – Social Studies from Long Island University C.W. Post, and an advanced graduate certificate in educational leadership from SUNY Stony Brook.

“I am truly honored to join the Half Hollow Hills family as Assistant Principal,” said Agoro. “I look forward to collaborating with staff and students to provide high-quality education and meaningful experiences that empower every student to succeed.”

Rebecca A. Campbell, Assistant Principal of West Hollow Middle School

Prior to her appointment, Campbell served as a mathematics teacher in the Malverne Union Free School District, advising the Creativity Club, facilitating student-led assemblies, and contributing to district curriculum development. She began her teaching career in the New York City Department of Education, teaching mathematics for seven years and holding leadership roles including Student Programming Director and Testing Coordinator.

In 2019, Campbell joined Half Hollow Hills as a mathematics teacher before moving to Malverne. She holds a bachelor’s degree in adolescence education from St. John’s University, a master’s degree in middle childhood education from Brooklyn College – CUNY, and is completing her advanced certificate in educational leadership at Hofstra University.

"I am honored to return to the Half Hollow Hills community, this time in an administrative role,” said Campbell. “My passion lies in building strong relationships with students, families, and staff while fostering a learning environment where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.”

Nicole Alexander – Executive Director for Technology and Libraries

Nicole Alexander brings more than 20 years of experience in instructional technology. For the past five years, she has served as the district’s Director of Instructional Technology, Business Education, and Secondary Librarians. Prior to joining Half Hollow Hills, she worked for 15 years as a technology staff developer at Great Neck Public Schools. Alexander earned a graduate degree from Hofstra University in STEM integration.

"I am thrilled to take on the responsibility of overseeing all technology in Half Hollow Hills," said Alexander. "This change positions me to better empower our students, teachers, and administrators."

Lorraine Lupinskie – Executive Director for Secondary Curriculum and Instruction

Lorraine Lupinskie has been the K–12 Social Studies Director in the Half Hollow Hills Central School District since 2010. Prior to joining the district, she served as the Social Studies Chairperson at Calhoun High School in the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District for seven years, following her earlier experience as a social studies teacher at Harborfields High School. Throughout her career, she has been deeply committed to curriculum development and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Lupinskie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies from the University at Albany, a Master of Arts in Secondary Education from Hofstra University, and an advanced graduate certificate in educational leadership from SUNY Stony Brook.

“I am so thankful for the many years I have spent working with a great group of social studies teachers, for the chance to learn about and grow our K–5 social studies program, and for the incredible educators and administrators who have taught me much and are wonderful to work with and for,” said Lupinskie. “I look forward to my new role and to the many collaborations that will contribute to our shared mission—one grounded in reflection, growth, and the belief that thoughtful teaching and learning can foster understanding, curiosity, and a deeper connection to the world around us.”

Jennifer Pearson - Assistant Principal of the Hills Academy

Jennifer Pearson joins Half Hollow Hills as Assistant Principal at The Hills Academy. She brings 20 years of experience as a school psychologist and district-wide CSE/504 chairperson, most recently serving as Supervisor of Secondary Special Education at Minisink Valley Central School District in Orange County.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with the dedicated team at Half Hollow Hills in this unique program. I am committed to supporting the diverse needs of Hills Academy students as they grow and strive to reach their educational and social-emotional goals.”

Ms. Pearson holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Siena University, a master’s degree in school psychology from Marist University, a master’s degree in business administration from the University at Albany SUNY, and a certificate of advanced study in school leadership from SUNY New Paltz.

Paul Perskin – Principal of Half Hollow Hills High School East

Paul Perskin has been a part of the High School East leadership team since 2017, serving as Assistant Principal. He has played a key role in developing a culture of accountability, inclusion, and student engagement. Perskin previously worked in the New York City Department of Education as a mathematics instructional coach and curriculum specialist. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Michigan, a Master of Science in Math Education from St. John’s University, and a certificate in educational leadership from the College of Saint Rose.

“High School East has a proud tradition of academic excellence, student involvement, and strong community ties,” said Perskin. “I am honored to serve as Principal and excited to build upon our shared commitment to innovation, equity, and student growth.”

Perskin succeeds Dr. Milton K. Strong, who is now the district’s new Assistant Superintendent for Education Operations.

Melissa Polzella – Assistant Principal of Sunquam Elementary School

Prior to joining Sunquam Elementary, Melissa Polzella served as an assistant principal at the Clara H. Carlson Elementary School in the Elmont Union Free School District. She began her career as an educator 15 years ago in Elmont, where she taught 2nd, 3rd, and 5th grade and co-taught in Special Education and ENL classroom settings. Polzella holds a dual bachelor’s degree in special education and childhood education, a master’s degree in special education with a concentration in autism, and an advanced certificate in educational leadership and administration from Long Island University at C.W. Post.

“I am truly honored to join the Sunquam Elementary community and the greater Half Hollow Hills family,” said Polzella. “The elementary years are such a critical time in a child’s journey, laying the foundation for a lifetime of learning, confidence, and connection. With a child-first philosophy at the heart of my leadership, my goal is to ensure that every student, staff member, and family feels valued, motivated, and supported. I look forward to building strong partnerships with our incredible team and families to continue fostering a school culture where everyone can thrive and reach their fullest potential together.”

Eric Seely - Athletic Director

Dr. Eric Seely, a proud 2002 Half Hollow Hills graduate, has served the district as Assistant Principal at West Hollow Middle School since 2017. Prior to returning to the district, he was the Athletic Director and a Physical Education/Health teacher at Achievement First Charter Schools in Brooklyn. A three-sport athlete and All-American during his time at Half Hollow Hills, Dr. Seely went on to compete as a Division I collegiate student-athlete and later at the professional level.

Dr. Seely earned a Bachelor of Science from Wake Forest University, a Master of Science from Hofstra University, an advanced graduate certificate in educational leadership from the College of Saint Rose, and a Doctor of Education in Leadership Innovation from Concordia University Wisconsin.

“Athletics gave me so much, and I am honored to serve as Athletic Director in the district that helped shape me as a student-athlete and person. I look forward to partnering with our coaches, student-athletes, and families to build programs that foster confidence, sportsmanship, and resilience, helping our students grow into well-rounded individuals ready to succeed both on and off the field.”

Heather Shook – Executive Director of Special Education

Heather Shook joins Half Hollow Hills with over two decades of experience in special education. Most recently, she served as Administrator of Elementary Special Education for the Sachem Central School District, where she expanded access to preschool services, supported dyslexia interventions, and championed trauma-informed practices. She began her career in the New York City DOE, later serving in the Three Village Central School District. Shook holds a bachelor’s degree in English literature from SUNY Plattsburgh, a master’s degree in education from LIU Post, and certificates in applied behavior analysis and educational leadership.

"I am honored to join the Half Hollow Hills community and look forward to working collaboratively with families, staff, and students to foster an environment where every learner can thrive," said Shook. "Together, we will continue to build a culture of inclusion, support, and excellence."

Jeanne Zodda – Executive Director for Elementary Curriculum and Instruction

Zodda has served as Coordinator of Elementary English Language Arts and Reading in Half Hollow Hills since 2022, bringing strong curricular knowledge and instructional experience to her work. Prior to joining the district, she spent nine years as an academic intervention services teacher in the Bayport-Blue Point School District. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Child Study and a Master of Arts in Literacy and Cognition from St. Joseph’s University, as well as a post-master’s advanced graduate certificate in educational leadership from SUNY Stony Brook.

“It is an honor and a privilege to continue my work at Half Hollow Hills,” said Zodda. “My goal is to ensure that every elementary school child receives a high-quality education that builds strong foundations for lifelong learning and success. I am committed to fostering a culture of academic excellence across all elementary schools in our district.”

ABOUT HALF HOLLOW HILLS

Located in central Long Island, Half Hollow Hills Central School District serves approximately 7,200 students across five elementary schools, two middle schools and two high schools. Recognized for academic, athletic and artistic excellence, the district is committed to providing equitable opportunities and preparing students for success in a rapidly changing world.