We are thrilled to announce an exciting development in our journey. As four dedicated new principals take on leadership roles in both parish and regional schools, they carry with them a profound commitment to instilling the Diocese of Rockville Centre’s Morning Star Initiative (MSI). This visionary plan embodies the essence of Catholic evangelization, breathing life into the Gospel and embarking on a transformative journey to revitalize Catholic elementary education.
Meet Principal John-Paul Barnaba, Long Island Catholic Regional School in Long Beach!✨
Introducing Mr. John-Paul Barnaba, a seasoned educator deeply rooted in the world of Catholic education. He formerly held the role of Principal at Our Lady of the Assumption School in the vibrant Bronx. Principal Barnaba’s educational journey started on Long Island, where he attended Catholic School and proudly graduated from St. Anthony’s High School in Huntington, N.Y. His passion for learning led him to earn a master’s degree in public policy from Stony Brook University in Stony Brook, N.Y.
However, his commitment to education goes beyond the classroom. Mr. Barnaba is also a distinguished graduate of the Current Academy, a School Leadership Development Program conducted in collaboration with the Diocese of Brooklyn and the Archdiocese of New York. His journey in school leadership began at St. John’s University in Queens, N.Y., and he remains deeply involved, currently serving on the executive board of the Catholic School Administrators Association of New York. With his wealth of experience and unwavering dedication, Principal Barnaba continues to shape the landscape of Catholic education.
“I look forward to not only being a school leader at Long Beach Catholic, but also being an adoptive member of the Long Beach community,”
– Principal John-Paul John Barnaba
Meet Principal Rebecca Darmanin, St. Patrick School in Smithtown! ✨
For the past remarkable 21 years, Ms. Darmanin has been an integral part of the St. Patrick School community in Smithtown. Her journey includes invaluable roles as both an assistant principal and a dedicated classroom teacher.
Ms. Darmanin’s educational foundation is steadfast, holding a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from St. Joseph’s College in Patchogue, N.Y. She has further enriched her expertise with a master’s degree in child and family development, coupled with a post-graduate certificate in district leadership, both earned at Stony Brook University in Stony Brook, N.Y. Her impressive academic background has laid the groundwork for her exceptional contributions to the field of education.
“For the past 21 years, St. Patrick School in Smithtown has been my home,” said Darmanin. “I have grown in my craft, worked with amazing colleagues, developed life-long friendships and grown in my faith. I am where God wants me to be at this moment and excited that he has allowed me to be an instrument in His divine plan.”
Principal Rebecca Darmanin, Principal of St. Patrick School, Smithtown
Meet Principal Dr. Thomas Fasano, Principal of St. Anne’s School in Garden City! ✨
Mr. Fasano’s journey in education traces back to the late 1980s when he embarked on a career as a high school social studies teacher, donning multiple hats as a baseball coach and mock trial club advisor. His commitment to education led him to the role of Dean of Students at Massapequa High School in 1995, followed by his appointment as Assistant Principal at Kings Park High School in 1998, eventually rising to the position of Principal in 2000.
His educational background is equally impressive. Mr. Fasano is an alumnus of Chaminade High School in Mineola, N.Y. He furthered his academic pursuits by earning a doctorate in educational administration from St. John’s University in Queens, N.Y. Additionally, he holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in history from St. John’s University, demonstrating his lifelong commitment to learning and educational leadership.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to return to my roots as principal, and in particular, to support the continued growth and success of the faith-based, family-centered learning community long established here at St. Anne’s school,” said Dr. Fasano. “Parents and staff are clearly committed to their children’s school and to the St. Anne’s parish community.”
Principal Dr. Thomas Fasano, Principal of St. Anne’s School, Garden City
Meet Principal Marcia Velasco, Principal of Holy Name of Mary School, Valley Stream!✨
With an impressive career spanning a quarter-century, she brings a wealth of expertise in teaching, administration, and curriculum development. Her extensive experience has encompassed various educational levels, from elementary to middle school and high school. In her teaching role, she skillfully guided students in English Language Arts and Social Studies. As an administrator, her unwavering dedication centered on fostering student academic growth and ensuring a positive disciplinary environment.
The morals, values and lessons that are taught in Catholic schools (in partnership with what is taught at home) are key for a child’s development and success. I am committed to making sure that these morals, values, and lessons remain at the forefront of your child’s education.
Marcia Velasco, Principal of Holy Name of Mary School, Valley Stream
Content for this blog post was inspired by an article written for the Diocese of Rockville Centre.
If you are interested in enrolling your child in any of our schools, you can find which school is closest to you. You can also find links to featured schools next to the Principal’s names.