Hudson Falls CSD has appointed two familiar faces to new leadership roles. Chris Doody and Mike Prendergast will both serve as high school assistant principals working alongside principal Jessica Hogan.
Mr. Prendergast has been at Hudson Falls since 2010, serving as a math teacher in the junior and senior high schools. Mr. Doody is a graduate of Hudson Falls and, most recently, has been a high school physical education teacher and coach.
“The best part about my new role,” said Mr. Doody, “is the chance to give back to the place that gave so much to me. Walking the same halls I once did as a student and now being able to support and guide the next generation is meaningful to me. I love seeing familiar faces of staff, parents, and students. It’s a full-circle moment, and I’m honored to help lead a school and community I care deeply about.”
Mr. Prendergast hopes to build on the work that Mrs. Hogan has been doing at the high school.
“She has really worked hard at changing the culture, and if I can build upon that, bring in good ideas, and help her and the staff, then I will have done my part. I also want to use my abilities to connect with the kids and have them maximize their potential and help them achieve their own goals,” he said.
When it comes to success in school, both offer valuable advice for students.
“I would tell students that all good things in life come from hard work. Shortcuts will catch up with them down the road at some point. But the good things in life come from hard work,” said Mr. Prendergast.
“Take pride in who they are and where they’re from. Don’t be afraid to get involved – join a club, play a sport, try something new. High school goes by fast, and the more they put into it, the more they’ll get out of it!” said Mr. Doody.
Mr. Prendergast and Mr. Doody are looking forward to getting started and diving into their new responsibilities.
“These are two solid leaders who will fit right in with what we’re doing at Hudson Falls,’ said Principal Jessica Hogan,” Our students are going to benefit from having them around.”
