St. Peter’s names Halgash new school principal

Lewiston Porter Sentinel, May 19, 2007

Kami L. Halgash

The Rev. Sebastian J. Pierro, pastor of St. Peter’s R.C. Church, has announced that Kami L. Halgash has been named principal at St. Peter’s School on Sixth Street in the Village of Lewiston. Halgash, who assumes her duties on July 2, replaces Mark Mambretti who will be taking a position in Buffalo.

“I am honored that, on behalf of the entire parish, Father Pierro has given me this opportunity to serve as the principal of St. Peter’s School,” said Halgash. “I look forward to using my knowledge and skills as a teacher, school counselor and administrator to lead our students in a positive way to grow academically, spiritually, and to successfully achieve their dreams.”

Halgash was born in Willoughby, Ohio. In 1982 her parents, Kathleen and Kenneth Halgash, relocated to Lewiston. She is an alumnus of the Lewiston-Porter Central School District.

Halgash attended Florida Atlantic University where she obtained her bachelor of arts in elementary education, cum laude. She furthered her education at Niagara University. There, Halgash obtained a masters of science in education, school counseling, Kappa Delta Phi and also a masters of science in education, administration and supervision.

A parishioner of St. Peter R. C. Church, Halgash has also served as the third grade teacher at St. Peter’s School for the past four years. During this time, Halgash has dedicated her knowledge, skills, and resources to create an atmosphere of educational excellence and a continuum of family values from home to school. Pierro pointed out that Halgash has proven her commitment to Catholic education and firmly believes in the role of Catholic schools in the life and mission of St. Peter’s Church and School. “She has a passionate outlook for the future growth and development of St. Peter’s School,” Pierro said.

Halgash has many future plans and goals that will elevate the academic and spiritual environment at St. Peter’s, Pierro continued. “Kami plans to do this through strengthening the bond between the various local Catholic schools in our community and building a stronger relationship among the families within our school.”

He reports that Halgash will be conducting a school and parishioner survey in the near future, which will assist her in evaluating the needs of the school community. “Kami looks forwards with excitement and enthusiasm to begin her role as principal and working with all the parents, students, and community members,” Pierro said.

“Education is a life-long learning process that involves the school, family, and the community,” Halgash commented. “I believe by working closely with Father Pierro, the parents, and the school community members, together we can establish new ideas and set goals for student success. I will do this by setting good examples, promoting the Catholic faith, and creating a safe and secure learning environment for our students. It is my role as principal to build a positive alliance with staff and parents by keeping open communication. I also feel that bringing the community into the school will establish a teamwork atmosphere in building a stronger student.”

Pierro invites area residents to attend a meet-and-greet affair with Halgash on Wednesday, June 6, at the St. Peter’s School Hall, beginning at 7 p.m. Refreshments will be served and all are welcome.

He adds that Halgash will be addressing the St. Peter’s community at all Masses, Saturday and Sunday, June 9 and 10. Pierro likewise encourages parishioners’ attendance.