PRINCIPAL WITH A PAST!

By Danielle Campbell

Today on News 12 is a story I did about Jack Abrams.

Jack Abrams a retired principal from the Huntington School district has touched many lives--

He is an inspiration, a role model --a man who has made a difference---

In fact News 12 Long Island honored Mr Abrams several years as part of our ongoing series "12 Making A Difference"

But most of all Jack Abrams is being honored for the magic he makes when he teaches our children a history lesson that captures their imaginations, and instills in them a love for learning!

Principal Abrams has spent two decades documenting the History of the Huntington School District...

He began the HERITAGE MUSEUM after saving artifacts that were about to be discarded into the school dumpsters, including the original school bell from 1857.

The bell and thousands of other artifacts from the Huntington school district's past are now forever preserved and put on display.

Because of his efforts in safeguarding yesteryear ---because of his infectious, inspiring love for history and the Huntington School district--because of his long distinguished career as a Huntington School District Teacher and Principal and because of his strong values, his love of learning-- his dedication to the true mission of teaching--which is to inspire--

The Board of Education has honored this dutiful servant, who has upheld the Huntington School District's Mandate and it's motto--" A tradition of Excellence"--with naming one of the district's elementary School's after him.

It is an unprecedented move, never been done for someone who is still alive. 

But the teachers who rallied around the idea--wanted to do this now--while Jack Abrams, who has served the district for 53 years--is still alive.

Truly, like the Huntington Lighthouse that Serves as a reminder of the district's mission----countless students have benefited from Jack Abrams lighting their way!

The museum has on display other items including a Geiger counter from the 60's principals were suppose to use in case of nuclear attack--a 1900's foot powered water fountain--gym bloomers from 1900's---trophy's, science projects, sports banners spanning the decades---kidney shaped ash trays from teacher lounges in the 60's and 70's...

He also started a program which teaches the children of the district the importance of preserving the past.

A forgotten school bell and a few boxes full of dusty historic documents, inspired the retired school Principal not only to preserve the past...but also to pass it on ..Jack Abrams has dedicated his golden years to archiving the history of the Huntington School district.

He began the Heritage Museum and it is there kids learn all about yesteryear...

The Heritage museum is located at Huntington High School.

For any Long Islander, it is truly a walk down memory lane.

If you get a chance to go, I hope you are lucky enough to meet Jack Abrams. 

http://www.hufsd.edu/community/heritage

Museum Curator

Jack Abrams

Contact Information
Phone: 631-673-2048

Comments

[allison]

I can't think of a person more deserving of this honor than Jack Abrams. I am so happy that he is receiving this honor while he is still alive so that he can enjoy this! I am looking forward to the Opening Day ceremonies on September 2nd.

[keith]

This is a great article, and I'm so glad Jack is getting all of these accolades that he so very truly deserves. He has been a treasure for the school district for 53 years, and is irreplaceable. He is the image of a person you name a school after. Thanks to the school board for recognizing this.