Former New York Jets defensive standout and Penn State Team Captain Lou Benfatti tackles a new responsibility December 1, 2009 when he becomes principal of Hopatcong Middle School. Mr. Benfatti steps up to a new role as acting principal for the 2009-2010 school year replacing Jeff Hallenbeck at the helm who was promoted to Director of Curriculum. Lewis Benfatti Jr., was tapped for the educational leadership role after serving the Hopatcong Borough Public Schools since leaving the N.Y. Jets Football Club in 1997. Mr. Benfatti taught Physical Education at both the middle school and high school before assuming the position of Vice-Principal at Hopatcong Middle School in 2005. He holds an MS degree in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University and a BA from Penn State University.
“From the pigskin to the principal’s office is a transition not many professional football players get the call to do but Lou Benfatti is up to the task,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Charles Maranzano, Jr. “Lou brings a whole new skill set to this position than the traditional career educator,” he added. The Hopatcong Borough Public Schools has a comprehensive educational program in place pre-K through 12th grade. Coincidentally, the Borough of Hopatcong has a very strong recreational Warriors Football league that covers over four decades of coaching and leadership training for its youth led by town council member John Young. “Our community values sports and the development of our youth as good citizens,” said Councilman Young.
“Everyone is thrilled with the addition of a former NY Jet to our leadership team here in Hopatcong,” stated Maranzano. “The middle school students respond very favorably to him and the teachers and parents are equally excited.” The School Board gave Benfatti the official nod at the November 23, 2009 School Board meeting and he will begin his new role on December 1. Benfatti will have to coach his new Vice-Principal Neil Pallotta who leaves the mathematics classroom to assume a new role as well. The Middle School in Hopatcong has a total of 525 students from grades six through eight.
The Hopatcong Borough Public School System is expecting good things in the years ahead from a strong administrative team and exceptional teaching professionals as stated by Superintendent of Schools Maranzano. "The schools in Hopatcong care about the quality of education for our youth. We consider the academic experience to be a part of the development of the whole child in conjunction with athletics, activities, and the arts."
No comments:
Post a Comment