For National Principal’s Month, I was able to sit down and chat PMHS’s very own Dr. Rusielewicz about his goals for the school year and to give the students of Patchogue-Medford High School the opportunity to learn a bit about him!

R&B: What are you excited about for this year?

Dr. R: I am excited about having nothing related to COVID anymore. I would like to focus on academics and extra-curricular activities, while at the same time, continuing to assist those students who may have or still are going through challenging times.

R&B: What are some of the biggest challenges you face as principal of Patchogue-Medford?

Dr. R: One of the biggest challenges I face as principal is always trying to make sure we offer a varied amount of courses, programs, and clubs in the hopes of providing students with opportunities to not only be curious but to find their passion and their career goals when they graduate from our high school. I like to think that we have something for everyone here at PMHS and I hope students take advantage of that.

R&B: What do you like most about your job?

Dr. R: The thing that I like most about my job is when I see students whether in a classroom, on our fields, in a club, or getting into a college they wanted to, I know that in some small or even big way that our high school contributed to their success. That makes me proud as a principal, a father, and an educator myself.

R&B: At what point in your life did you realize that you wanted to pursue a career in education?

Dr. R: Prior to enrolling in an educational program, I was a performing musician, which was not the best paying of jobs. I found a balance by being both a musician and an educator by becoming a music teacher. As we all know in life, it never directly goes from A to B to C. I have been truly fortunate to be an administrator in Patchogue-Medford for 20 years, and I love my job!

R&B: What are some of your hobbies/interests outside of school?

Dr. R: I am an adjunct lecturer at St. Joseph’s University in their graduate administration program. I also enjoy boating, fishing, traveling, and just being with family.

I would like to thank Dr. R for taking time out of his day for our interview. Your continued support for our journalists here at the Red and Black is greatly appreciated!