Wyckoff's 'Rewards School' Loses Leadership

The Sicomac Elementary School was named one of New Jersey's "Rewards Schools" for their outstanding academic record. Debbie Kirsch has been in the district for 18 years and was the Principal who helped raise Sicomac to receive such a distinction.

"The Board of Education would like to thank Debra Kirsch for her many years of service to the Sicomac School and the Wyckoff School District," said School Board President Robert Francin. "Mrs. Kirsch has been a great educational leader for our teachers. She is a passionate and revered educator who will be greatly missed.  It will not be easy to find someone who can easily step into her shoes."

Mrs. Kirsch has not accepted the success of Sicomac as a result of her hard work but the hard work and willingness of her staff to collaborate grow. 

"The teachers and staff at Sicomac, and at all of our schools, are true professionals who will continue to provide an excellent education to the children of Wyckoff," said Francin. 

The Wyckoff Board of Education has begun the early stages of the search for a replacement, and they are giving the public the opportunity to have some input. Superintendent Richard Kuder has invited the public to join a discussion regarding the replacement principal. The meeting is scheduled for April 4, at 2:00 pm in the multi-purpose room of Sicomac Elementary School. 

Mrs. Kirsch spoke to some 3rd graders who had concerns about her departure. She personally reassured them that the school name would remain Sicomac, that they will still have pajama day and that she will personally teach the new principal the "all important snow dance."

Mrs. Kirsch released the following statement:

The Wyckoff community has always supported the educational system and that has made it such a joy to come to work each day. The educational process is continually evolving, and so has the role of the principal. Truly, there has never been a dull day! No day or year has ever duplicated another. There has always been something new to learn and new practices to implement. With that in mind, I have always sought to continue my own professional development so I can best serve as an educational leader for my staff.

Being around children is exciting, and watching them learn and grow is so fulfilling. Today, I met with a group of third graders working on a project. Hearing their ideas and seeing them collaborate and then come to consensus was very rewarding.  They demonstrated great skills as they worked together. Skills that will carry them through life. I am proud they learned them here at Sicomac School.

Yes, I am looking forward to retirement, and at the same time, I know I will miss Wyckoff. The Sicomac School staff works as a team.  I am certain they will continue to be reflective practitioners next year as they continue to work for the benefit of the children.  I know they will carry on the best practices we have in place and welcome a new principal.