September 2026 Educators as Learners and Leaders: Angie Watt and Alissa Baka

This month, #ClarkstownCSD is celebrating two staffers in its monthly Educators as Learners and Leaders Award series: Angie Watt and Alissa Baka, assistant principals at Clarkstown high schools North and South, respectively!

Angie and Alissa were tasked with implementing the new drop rotation schedule at both high schools—a heavy lift that both administrators made look effortless. “Angie’s attention to detail, organization and steady leadership made a complicated process work smoothly for our entire school community,” says Clarkstown North’s principal Candace Reim. “She made the transition feel seamless.”

Over at Clarkstown South, Principal Debra Tarantino agrees. “Alissa’s work on the new schedule was inspiring and innovative. She worked diligently to ensure that students and teachers felt confident as we transitioned to the new schedule.”

While the bulk of the work took place last year and over the summer, the planning for the drop rotation was a years’ long process—one that involved visiting other districts with similar schedules, creating spreadsheets, restructuring electives and making sure that the instructional minutes of each period met state standards, says Watt. “But it was all worth it because students now have the opportunity to explore electives, have time during their day to complete their schoolwork or meet with a counselor while also having a lunch!” she says.

“The new schedule provides greater access to courses, more focused instructional time and time to connect and recharge during the school day,” says Baka. “A month in, it’s been successful, and we’ll continue to look for ways to make it even better.”

Congratulations Angie and Alissa!