Jericho School District Announces Leadership Appointments for the 2026–2027 School Year

The Jericho School District is pleased to announce several key leadership appointments for the 2026–2027 school year. These appointments reflect the district's ongoing commitment to excellence, innovation, and student success while strengthening leadership across all levels of the organization.

Desiree Clemente Appointed Assistant Superintendent

After serving the past two years as Director of Pupil Personnel Services, Ms. Desiree Clemente has been elevated to the position of Assistant Superintendent of PPS. During her tenure, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to supporting students and advocating for families while serving as a trusted bridge between the district and New York State agencies. Known for her collaborative leadership and dedication to the Jericho community, Ms. Clemente has consistently gone above and beyond to support students both inside and outside the classroom. In her new role, she will continue working alongside Dr. Kravitz to advance district initiatives and ensure every student has the support they need to reach their full potential.

Dr. Joseph Prisinzano Named Assistant Superintendent for Administration, Analytics & Innovation

Dr. Joseph Prisinzano has been appointed Assistant Superintendent of Administration, Analytics & Innovation after serving as Jericho High School Principal and Co-Principal for the past 20 years. Throughout his leadership, Dr. Prisinzano has developed and refined systems that have strengthened school operations and supported student achievement. His strategic mindset, innovative thinking, and commitment to continuous improvement have helped create efficient processes that benefit students, staff, and families. In his new role, he will oversee districtwide systems, use data to guide informed decision-making, and lead initiatives that enhance innovation, operational excellence, and accessibility across the district.

Dr. Robert R. Zywicki Appointed Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, Professional Development & Policy

The district is also pleased to welcome Dr. Robert R. Zywicki as Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, Professional Development & Policy. A dynamic educational leader with more than two decades of experience, Dr. Zywicki  has built a distinguished career focused on strengthening educational organizations and improving student outcomes. His expertise includes Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), comprehensive assessment, differentiated instruction, project-based learning, school finance, and organizational leadership. Dr. Zywicki will lead the district's human resources department, professional learning, and policy initiatives while helping cultivate a culture of excellence for all staff.

Lauren Scharfstein Named Principal of Cantiague Elementary School

The Jericho School District is proud to welcome Ms. Lauren Scharfstein as the new Principal of Cantiague Elementary School. Ms. Scharfstein brings more than 15 years of educational leadership experience, most recently serving as a principal in the Mamaroneck School District. She is widely recognized for building strong partnerships with families, fostering innovative instructional practices, and supporting meaningful professional development for teachers. As she joins the Jericho community, Ms. Scharfstein looks forward to creating a welcoming, student-centered environment where every child can succeed.

David Cohen Returns as Interim Principal of Jericho High School

Following his recent retirement, David Cohen has been appointed Interim Principal of Jericho High School for the 2026-2027 school year,  returning to a role he previously held with distinction. Mr. Cohen  has served the district for 6 years, most recently as Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources, where he was a dedicated advocate for faculty and staff. Prior to that position, he served as Co-Principal of Jericho High School, earning the respect and admiration of students, staff, and families alike. His deep understanding of the school community, strong relationships, and student-centered leadership make him uniquely qualified to guide Jericho High School during this transition.

Together, these appointments represent an exciting new chapter for the Jericho School District. By combining experienced internal leaders with accomplished new administrators, the district continues to build a leadership team dedicated to innovation, collaboration, and providing exceptional educational opportunities for every student.