Longtime Mahopac Middle School Principal Tom Cozzocrea has been named executive director of technology and Falls School operations, “a newly expanded role that will also include oversight of the district’s Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) program,” district officials said in a press release.
Mahopac Middle School Assistant Principal Anthony Muia will step up to succeed Cozzocrea as principal.
The district said the moves – which were approved by the School Board at a special meeting on July 30 – were part of new Superintendent Vincent DiGrandi’s plan to “strengthen student opportunities from the earliest years of learning through middle school.”
“Together, the appointments reflect the district's commitment to strong leadership, continuous improvement and creating exceptional opportunities for students at every stage of their educational journey,” the press release said.
Cozzocrea spent nine years as MMS principal, earning “a reputation for collaborative leadership and thoughtful decision-making that support both students and staff” – qualities district leaders feel will be valuable in his new role, which will involve “working across departments to strengthen the districtwide systems that allow students, staff and schools to thrive.”
The district said including UPK in Cozzocrea's portfolio demonstrates DiGrandi’s focus on “strengthening early childhood education and building a strong foundation in literacy” and “investing in the resources and systems that help students develop the skills they need from their very first day of school.”
DiGrandi said Cozzocrea’s collaborative approach will be a major asset in his new role.
“Tom has a unique ability to bring people together, improve systems and keep student success at the center of every decision,” DiGrandi said. “As we continue building on Mahopac’s tradition of excellence, I know Tom's leadership will strengthen the work happening across our schools.”
Cozzocrea said he looks forward to working with an experienced MCSD technology team, both to continue building the district’s tech infrastructure and provide students with the tools they need to prepare for their futures.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to continue serving Mahopac in this new role,” Cozzocrea said. “The relationships I’ve built with our students, staff and families over the past nine years have been the most rewarding part of my career. I’m excited to support every school in the district while helping ensure our students have outstanding learning environments and access to the technology and resources that will prepare them for the future.”
Cozzocrea's new role also opens the opportunity for Muia – who has been described as a “familiar and trusted presence among students, staff and families” – to take over as Mahopac Middle School principal.
He said he will continue to build on a culture that combines academic excellence with community.
“It is truly an honor to serve as principal of Mahopac Middle School,” Muia said. “I’m grateful for the trust and confidence Superintendent DiGrandi and the district have placed in me. We have exceptional teachers, dedicated staff, supportive families and incredible students. I look forward to building on the great work already happening here while ensuring every student feels supported and inspired to achieve their personal best.”
DiGrandi said throughout his time at the middle school, Muia “has demonstrated outstanding leadership, integrity and a genuine commitment to students.”
“He has earned the respect of our faculty, staff and families through his collaborative approach and unwavering focus on students,” DiGrandi said.
Information provided by MCSD
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