Casseri earns top honor

Paul J. Casseri, Lewiston-Porter High School principal, was honored at the Region 12 Awards dinner on May 15 for his leadership at the school. He earned the prestigious title of Western New York's high school principal of the year, selected by the School Administrators Association of New York State.

Casseri's efforts have transformed Lewiston-Porter into one of the top school districts in Western New York.

The Green Machine, a group that promotes school spirit at sporting events, was put in place with the assistance of Casseri. As a result, the Lew-Port family has formed an even closer bond. The students and staff praise their principal for positively impacting the school.

"Mr. Casseri has shown steadfast dedication to his students by demanding the best from them as well as from his teachers," Cindy Sanchez, a Lew-Port art teacher said. "In an increasingly challenging time for students, teachers and administrators alike, Mr. Casseri routinely provides the leadership necessary to navigate these difficult waters."

Casseri reinstated the International Studies program, providing domestic students exposure to more diverse cultures and new opportunities worldwide. It also encouraged students abroad to attend Lewiston-Porter; its recent F1 visa international school status is providing the district with additional revenue.

In 2005, Casseri left South Park High School in Buffalo, to further encourage the development and success of Lewiston-Porter High School. His large influence on Western New York education has earned him an impressive accolade, but more importantly the continued support of the community surrounding him.