Before Webster School welcomed Tony D’Angelo as its new principal, the children, parents, teachers and staff at the school had to give the proper farewell to its long-time leader, retiring Principal Arthur Palumbo.
While Palumbo was reluctant to have an elaborate sendoff, the school surprised him with a presentation that included each student offering Palumbo a personal good luck card. Many students made banners to give good wishes to the man who had served for 43 years in the Weehawken school system, the last eight as the head man at Webster.
The teachers, staff and Parent Teachers Organization also presented Palumbo with gifts of appreciation and thanks.
“It’s a tremendous loss to our district,” Superintendent of Schools Kevin McLellan said. “Artie Palumbo has continually proven to our students, our faculty and our district as a dedicated, outstanding educator and individual. We will all miss him tremendously. I’ve always considered him as being a mentor to me. The Board of Education wishes him the best for a healthy and happy retirement.”
Palumbo could not be reached for comment by press time. – Jim Hague