New Principal Jennifer Darling Brings a Wealth of Experience

A funny thing happened when Jennifer Darling began as principal at Matthew Paterson Elementary School this summer; she kept meeting people who were Carmel Central School District alumni.  

“I would meet teachers who work in the district, or local parents, and they would say ‘I went to school here, and I’m so glad my children go to school here,’” Darling said. “It seems that people who know it take great pride in the Carmel school district. It says a lot about a school community when you see that people want to keep coming back.”   

Darling, whose background is in literacy, came to Carmel schools with a wealth of experience running a school and creating a positive school culture that encourages children and offers them all sorts of opportunities. A principal at Concord Elementary School in Ardsley for four years and a school administrator for 11 years, Darling holds a master’s degree in literacy from Hunter College of the City University of New York and a second master's in leadership for educational change from the Principal’s Institute at Bank Street College.  

“Mrs. Darling’s combination of strong leadership experience and warm personality will bring Matthew Paterson Elementary to a new height,” Interim Superintendent Joseph McGrath said. “The students, teachers and school community are already benefitting from her expertise.”  

Among the many things that Darling said make her excited about leading Matthew Paterson Elementary include teachers who are dynamic and creative and a PTO that works nonstop and contributes to the school in ways that make every day better. 

“When I came to the Carmel district for interviews, I kept having this good feeling, as if I knew where my next home was going to be,” Darling said. “And I do feel at home here now. I love the diversity at Matthew Paterson. The families come from a range of backgrounds, and the kids get to share their experiences. That makes for a remarkably interesting community.”