Dr. Ellice Vassallo has been a fixture in the West Babylon School District since she arrived in 1994. And she has certainly left her mark. Since that time, she has served as the principal of the Senior High School and has always put the needs of her students first. While her retirement is effective June 30, she will remain on board and serve as an interim principal for July and August until a new principal has been appointed.

“I have worked with Dr. Vassallo for the past 14 years in West Babylon,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Yiendhy Farrelly. “Not only is she a dedicated administrator, but she always puts the needs of her students, staff and faculty first. She’s always been very supportive of our vision for the district and is a valued member of the Suffolk County Principals Association and our superintendent’s management team.”

“On behalf of the Board of Education, I would like to extend our sincerest thanks for a wonderful 26-year career with West Babylon,” said Board of Education president Lucy Campasano. “Dr. Vassallo has shown dedication to our staff and students and has made many friends along the way. I will miss working with her. I wish her health and happiness in her retirement.”

“Every time I have witnessed Dr. Vassallo make a difficult decision, she would ask herself, as well as those around her, ‘What is in the best interest of kids?’ The answer to that question would drive her mindset,” said West Babylon Senior High School assistant principal Stephen O’Leary.

Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Shawn Hanley added, “Dr. Vassallo was always present at West Babylon Senior High School events. Dr. Vassallo always believed how important it was to show support for all your students in all activities, both instructional and non-instructional.”

Dr. Vassallo started her career as an English teacher in Farmingdale Public Schools, where she stayed for 16 years. After receiving her administrative certification, she was appointed dean of students for the district. Next, Dr. Vassallo took her administrative career to Plainedge School District, where she served as an assistant principal before coming to West Babylon. The Class of 2020 will be her 26th graduating class.

“West Babylon has been my home away from home and my second family,” Dr. Vassallo said. “I will miss seeing students on a daily basis and my interactions with the staff. I am glad to have been a part of the community and the lives of all. It wasn't just work.”

Just because she is saying goodbye to her role as principal, it doesn’t mean you won’t see Dr. Vassallo involved with students. “For the future, I hope to be able to continue to contribute to education in West Babylon or other communities,” Dr. Vassallo said. “My husband and I may do some traveling when it’s less hazardous. I hope to have more time for grandchildren and family as well.”