C.J. Hooker Middle School welcomes new principal

The Goshen school board in August appointed Heather Carman as the new principal of the C.J. Hooker Middle School.

She will replace Dr. William Rolon who recently resigned to take an assistant superintendent position at the Beacon City School District. Carman is a familiar name at C.J. Hooker, having served as the school’s assistant principal since September 2014.

Superintendent Daniel Connor said the district "decided to look within its own pool of talent" when looking for a replacement for Dr. Rolon.

“I am so excited and honored to be named the new principal at C. J. Hooker Middle School, which has been a lifelong dream of mine,” Carman said. “I am looking forward to this new chapter and all of the exciting opportunities that Goshen has to offer. I am extremely grateful to the Board of Education, Superintendent Daniel Connor, Assistant Superintendent Jason Carter, my family, staff and the entire Goshen community for all of their support and well wishes on my new appointment. I am looking forward to a phenomenal year.”

Carman has strong roots in the district. While an undergrad, she completed her field experience at Goshen, working in both the middle and high schools. She returned to complete her administrative internship at Goshen High School while pursuing a master’s degree.

Carman received a bachelor of science in education and master of science in education from SUNY Cortland and her administrative certification from SUNY New Paltz. Before she came to Goshen, she served as assistant principal/dean of students at Sullivan County BOCES and dean of students at Lincoln Hall Ives School in Lincolndale. She previously taught physical education and health at Greenwood Lake, where she also served as athletic director.Dr. William Rolon, when he was first named principal of the C. J. Hooker Middle School in March 2011.

Robert Siracuse, formerly the director of personnel, has taken over Carman’s former position as assistant principal. Dr. Gregory Voloshin, who has served as principal at Scotchtown Avenue Elementary School since July 2017, has replaced Siracuse as director of personnel.

A new chapter for Dr. Rolon

On Aug. 21, Rolon, who served as C.J. Hooker principal since 2011, started his new job as assistant superintendent for personnel and policy at Beacon City School District.

“Since his arrival more than eight years ago, Dr. Rolon has exemplified his dedication to the students of Goshen Schools,” said Superintendent Daniel Connor. “Dr. Rolon established several educational initiatives and programs at the middle school, including the National Junior Honor Society, Leo Club, the after-school academic support programs and the middle school musical. We are grateful for his tireless efforts, and wish him the very best as he takes on his new role as assistant superintendent.”

Rolon came to Goshen from the Newburgh Enlarged City School District, where he held the position of assistant principal for approximately seven years – first at the Gidney Avenue School and then at Temple Hill Academy School. He had previously taught middle school and was a reading specialist in Newburgh and Rockland County.

“As I reflect upon the time that I have been here, I am grateful for all the opportunities that this school district has given me to grow as a leader,” said Dr. Rolon. “I have learned so much and our accomplishments were great. Being part of such a wonderful community of students, teachers, parents, and administrators has truly enriched my life, and for that I will forever be grateful. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your lives.”

Rolon received a bachelor of science degree in Hispanic studies and dual certification in special education and elementary education from Mount Saint Mary College, followed by a master of science degree in reading teacher education from St. Thomas Aquinas College and administrative certification from the College of New Rochelle. He received a doctorate in executive leadership from St. John Fisher College in 2018.