Harborfields Central School District

Greenlawn, New York - Kerry Neira, the Assistant Principal of Washington Drive Primary School, has been named the 2024-2025 Council of Administrators and Supervisors Administrator of the Year! 

Each year, the Council honors outstanding public school administrators from Nassau and Suffolk counties, and this year, Mrs. Neira is being recognized for her exceptional leadership, dedication, and remarkable contributions to the Harborfields Central School District. She was nominated by her colleague, Kathy McNally, Principal of Washington Drive Primary School. 

“Mrs. Kerry Neira is the heart of Washington Drive Primary School, leading with unwavering dedication, compassion, and a relentless belief in every child’s potential,” shared Mrs. McNally. “Her student-centered approach and commitment to fostering an inclusive and joyful school culture make her an extraordinary leader. It was an honor to nominate her for the 2024-2025 CAS Administrator of the Year Award, as she continues to inspire, uplift, and transform lives every day.” 

For the past nine years, Mrs. Neira has served the Harborfields Central School District with unparalleled dedication and enthusiasm, including six years as a trusted administrator. She founded the WOW Program at Washington Drive, a recognition initiative that celebrates students for their outstanding work and behavior. Mrs. Neira champions the philosophy of educating the whole child. She understands that social-emotional well-being is the foundation of academic success and, therefore, makes Social Emotional Learning (SEL) a top priority. Her Perfectly Positive Phone Calls initiative strengthens school-home connections, ensuring students receive well-deserved recognition for their achievements. Ms. Neira uses her role in overseeing student discipline to approach every challenge as a learning opportunity for our students. Her approach is restorative, emphasizing reflection and growth. She has revolutionized bus behavior by implementing social stories and talking circles, creating a safer and more inclusive transportation environment.

Mrs. Neira also works diligently to create a safe and inclusive culture for all students. She leads the No Place for Hate initiative at Washington Drive, a program that was so impactful it was recognized by the Anti-Defamation League, where she was invited to speak at their annual Banner Ceremony. She fosters cultural awareness through events such as the Black History Month Scavenger Hunt and classroom read-alouds highlighting Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month and Women's History Month. Her efforts ensure that every student feels seen, valued, and included in their school community.

In addition to her daily responsibilities, Mrs. Neira serves on numerous committees and is a consistent presence at Board of Education meetings, PTA events, and district-wide celebrations. She is a lifelong learner, continuously refining her leadership skills and educational expertise. 

“I know I speak for the entire school community when I congratulate Mrs. Kerry Neira on this well-deserved recognition as Administrator of the Year,” said Dr. Rory Manning, Superintendent of Schools. “Mrs. Neira's dedication, leadership, and commitment to our students, staff, and school community continue to make a lasting impact, and we are incredibly proud to have her as an integral part of our Harborfields Family.  

The Council of Administrators and Supervisors has over 1,500 members and a highly competitive selection process, making this achievement even more impressive. Mrs. Neira will be honored alongside other award winners at the CAS Delegate Assembly on April 2, 2025.