Principal of Island Park's Hegarty Elementary resigns amid concerns

Parents and staff at Francis X. Hegarty Elementary School were informed today that Principal Adam Frankel has officially resigned. Superintendent Vincent Randazzo said the immediate search for an interim principal in a letter to the school community. At the same time, Assistant Superintendent Tami McElwee and Pupil Personnel Director Jacob Russum will take over daily operations.

The resignation follows an incident last week, where Frankel was allegedly involved in an altercation with a student.

Frankel, who was appointed as interim principal of Francis X. Hegarty Elementary in November 2022, had served as an elementary principal for over 15 years in both large and small school districts across Long Island. In his career, he also held roles as Director of Elementary Education and Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction. Upon his appointment, Superintendent Randazzo expressed confidence in Frankel’s ability to enhance learning opportunities at the school.

Despite this strong background, the recent incident appears to have expedited his departure from the position. The school district’s letter emphasized its commitment to providing a safe, nurturing environment for students during this transition. McElwee and Russum, both seasoned administrators with extensive experience in elementary education, will oversee operations until a permanent replacement is found.

This story is developing, and more details are expected in the coming days.