Downing principal Edward Tallon retiring

After 21 years with Malverne Schools, Maurice W. Downing Primary School principal Edward Tallon is retiring at the end of this school year.

Mr. Tallon joined the Malverne family in 2003 as the principal of Davison Avenue School. He was instrumental in the school’s transformation from serving grades K-4 to serving grades 3-5. This team effort allowed the school to better focus on preparing fifth graders for middle school, and has been a resounding success, school officials say.

Tallon took the reins as principal of Downing in 2017. Students and faculty say he is responsible for creating a vibrant culture of collaboration, grassroots creativity and fun. Under his guidance, the positivity and enthusiasm that fills the hallways and classrooms guarantees that teachers and faculty are creating lasting memories for Malverne kids every day.

As he ventures into his next chapter, Tallon will miss “the wonderful families, teachers, staff and students that make Malverne such a unique and inspiring district,” he said.

The district “thanks Mr. Tallon for an incredible two decades of leadership that has produced year after year of fantastic experiences, and ensured that all students develop strong educational and social foundations that prepare them for a bright and successful future.”

To ensure a seamless transition, Malverne School District used ThoughtExchange, a survey tool, to gather feedback from the community on the characteristics that are most important to them in school leadership. District officials will use that information to make important decisions for the future, they said. They will let the community know when they have identified the next Downing principal.