Sacred Heart Academy Appoints Dr. Teresa Prendergast as 11th Principal

(Hempstead, NY, February 1, 2023) Sacred Heart Academy (SHA) proudly announces the appointment of  Dr. Teresa Prendergast as the 11th Principal of the all-girls, Catholic, college-preparatory school.  An experienced educator and strategic administrator, Prendergast will assume the role in August 2023. She succeeds 
Sister Jean Amore who has served as principal since September 2018. 

Dr. Prendergast currently serves as the Superintendent of the Great Neck Public Schools. In this role, she is responsible for 6,800 students enrolled in grades Pre-K through grade 12 across ten schools. She oversees curriculum and instruction, professional development, recruitment and retention, supports student wellness through strong social emotional curricular programs and expanded mental health offerings, including a mental health partnership with Northwell Health. 

President Kristin Lynch Graham says, “In a field of talented candidates and a rigorous search process, Dr. Prendergast’s impeccable professional resume combined with her personal style, faith, and deep commitment to SHA’s mission made her the standout choice. As a two-time SHA Parent herself (Kaitlin ‘10, Megan‘12), she knows first-hand the value of the SHA experience. In fact, it was her daughters who encouraged her to apply for the role. I am excited to work with Dr. Prendergast.” 

An educator since 1987, Prendergast’s career includes roles of  assistant superintendent, principal, assistant principal, dean, and classroom teacher. She is formerly the assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction for the Garden City Public Schools. She earned a Doctorate of Education in educational administration and supervision, and a Professional Diploma in educational supervision and administration, both from St. John's University, a Master of Science degree in mathematics education, grades 7-12, from CUNY Lehman College, and a Bachelor of Science in elementary education, nursery-grade 6, and mathematics, grades 7-9, from St. John's University. Prendergast says, ”Empowering young women as they develop into confident leaders and contributing members of their communities and faith resonates deeply with both my professional and personal values.  Having sent two daughters through Sacred Heart Academy, I know first-hand the value of a Sacred Heart degree and how impactful SHA has been in shaping their futures.  It is an honor to join the school at this pivotal moment of growth and advancement and I look forward to many rewarding years at SHA.”

 

ABOUT SACRED HEART ACADEMY
Sacred Heart Academy (SHA) is an all-girls Catholic college preparatory school sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph. Founded in 1949, SHA has over 12,000 alumnae who live and work around the world. Current students come from over 40 school districts. Graduates go on to recognized top-tier colleges and universities, receiving significant academic and athletic scholarship offerings each year. 
Sacred Heart Academy combines rigorous academics with leadership opportunities that fosters the values of courage, commitment and compassion. Lead with Heart is the essence of the Sacred Heart Academy experience. 

 

Media Contact:
Jacquelyn Nealon, Ed.D. 
Executive Director of Marketing & Communications
[email protected]
516.483.7383 x331
www.sacredheartacademyli.org