Southampton Appoints Elementary Principal

The Southampton Union Free School District is pleased to announce the promotion of Dr. Nicole Fernandez as its new elementary principal. She replaces Dr. Jaime Botcher, who has been promoted to assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction

“We are pleased to promote one of our own who has demonstrated impressive dedication to the district, our students and staff,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Nicholas Dyno. “We look forward to her future accomplishments in her new role.”

Fernandez, of Miller Place, currently serves as elementary school assistant principal. She joined the Southampton School District from the Rocky Point School District, where she worked as an English as a New Language teacher at Frank J. Carasiti Elementary School since 2005. During her time in Rocky Point, she also served as the K-12 ENL chairperson and participated in an administrative internship.

In addition, Fernandez is an adjunct associate professor at both St. John’s University and Stony Brook University. Prior to working in Rocky Point, she was the director of education at the Sylvan Learning Center in Huntington.  

Fernandez holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology from St. Joseph’s College, a Master of Science in elementary education from Long Island University, and a Doctor of Educational Leadership and Technology from Dowling College.

“It is truly an honor to be announced as the new principal at Southampton Elementary School,” she said. “I have big shoes to fill, but I promise to support the students, teachers, staff, parents, and community members as we head into the 2022-2023 school year.”