Mr. David K. Miller
Assistant Principal
Class of 2012
 
Phone:  (516)767-5844
 
It is said that the only constant in the universe is change.  This paradox is a wonderful lens with which to view a school and the lives of high school students.  Each day is filled with opportunities for change and that means growth and learning; and not just in the classroom.  In my role as assistant principal, it is my responsibility to bring these non classroom lessons into focus.  I am often asked if I miss teaching.  My answer, inevitably, is that while I loved being in the classroom, I still teach; my lessons are just different.
 
I take this role as a teacher of non curriculum matters seriously.  Learning those life lessons is what defines us and helps mold us into the men and women we become.  One of the most important things I try to impress upon students is the value to doing the right thing - even when someone is not watching.  This is what defines character and demonstrates what we hold to be good values and ethics.  
 
Sometimes it is the little things we learn, like how to speak to someone and responding to criticism.  Sometimes it is about cutting a class, misbehaving in the cafeteria, doing school work or staying at the bathroom too long. Often it is the "little lie" that is told to a teacher about where they were or what happened.  To many students these things seem like little annoyances that school administrators overreact to but, in fact, they are far more important than they think.  The discussion about these matters is the crucible in which many important lessons are learned.  Kids learn from these moments.  They learn decency, honesty, hard work and respect.  They learn the value of making good decisions and they learn that sometimes you will be given a break if you earn it and that sometimes you will not. 
 
George Washington Carver once said; "When you do the common things in life in an uncommon way, you will command the attention of the world."   My challenge to students is to do just that; do the common things in life in an uncommon way.  Write more, study harder, hold open doors for those behind you, attend extra help even when when they are doing well and make their high school experience an exceptional one.
 
This is why I will always hold students to high standards.  My expectations will always be high because if they are not students will reach lower.  I also believe that having lower expectations, both academically and socially, insults the ability of the student and negatively reinforces bad behavior and choices.
 
Good luck in school and enjoy your time at Schreiber.  Take it all in and accept the challenge.  There are so many wonderful activities to participate in.  The academic, athletic, social and extracurricular opportunities here are second to none.  Good luck and stop by if I can be of help in any way.