Principal

Dear Riccardi Community,

It is with gratitude, excitement, and purpose that I write to introduce myself as the principal of Charles M. Riccardi Elementary School. I am deeply honored to serve a school community so well-known for its supportive families, rich traditions, and strong classroom instruction.

As an educator with 17 years of experience as an elementary teacher, instructional coach, and administrator, my mission is clear: to cultivate a high-performing school where ALL students succeed academically and socially-emotionally as the natural result of a healthy, empowered professional culture. There is nowhere else I would rather be to continue this meaningful work. It is a responsibility that I embrace wholeheartedly, knowing that collaboration will be at the center of our daily progress.

I value relationships, and my first priority this school year is to build trust and open lines of communication with families, staff, students, and the greater Saugerties CSD community. I will listen and learn, seeking to understand what you love most about our school, as well as your hopes for our future growth. 

Here’s what you can expect from me:

• High Visibility: I’ll be out at morning drop-off and on the playground high-fiving students and regularly visiting classrooms to support our amazing teachers.
• Open Collaboration & Communication: I lead by gathering feedback from families and staff alike to help inform and steer our effort.
• A Parent’s Perspective: As a mom of two Saugerties students, I live the incredible rewards and daily chaos of raising kids right alongside you. The well-being of students will remain top priority in the decisions I make.

I look forward to the learning, growth, and joy that happen here each day—and to all that we will accomplish together in support of our students.

Sincerely,

Megan Gross

Principal