Islip Elementary School Principal Named 2023 Outstanding Educator

ISLIP, NY — One Islip educator was recently recognized for his contributions to his school community.

James Cameron, the principal of Islip’s Commack Road Elementary School, was selected for the School Administrators Association of New York State’s 2023 Outstanding Educator Award, the Islip School District said.

The award is given annually to a SAANYS member who has made outstanding contributions in New York State schools through public education, professional organizations, or research and writing in the field of education.

Cameron and his fellow 2023 award winners were recently recognized at the annual SAANYS awards celebration at the Crown Plaza Albany – The Desmond Hotel in Albany.

“In order for success to be possible, we must all show up, stand up and speak up if we want to stand out as a community,” Cameron said in a statement. “By being your best self and treating others as you would like to be treated, you will be a role model, set an example, be there for each other and hold each other accountable to create the best environment for all.”

The educator began his career in education as a teaching assistant in 2003. Following a three-year stint as the assistant principal at Islip Middle School, he became principal of Commack Road in 2017, the district said.

“Mr. Cameron has worked to develop programs and support systems to meet the diverse learning needs of all students at CRES,” Islip Board of Education trustee LauraRogacki said. “I am continually impressed by his broad knowledge and his ability to predict and respond to the needs of CRES families and students. He has created an environment of understanding and inclusivity, making students, parents and staff alike welcomed and partof the CRES community.”

He received his bachelor’s degree from Five Towns College, his master’s degree from the College of Mount Vincent and a post-master’s advanced certificate from Queens College.

"Mr. Cameron is kind, caring, funny and helpful, and these are just a few of the millions of words that describe him,” former student Elizabeth Balsamo said. “He makes Commack Road Elementary a home.”

Cameron currently serves on the SAANYS board of directors, as advocacy chair for the Suffolk County Elementary Principals’ Association, as an officer of the lslip Association of School Administrators and as a SAANYS representative on the New York State Education Department Digital Learning Advisory Council.

“James Cameron exudes leadership,” Islip Middle School Assistant Principal Curtis Juengerkes said. “He has established district practice in support of Islip children and families. Mr. Cameron, every day and always, can be observed supporting and serving the children and families who attend his building. He is a gifted and talented leader, which the district of Islip enjoys on a daily basis.”