Senate Resolution No. 1834

BY: Senator STEC

HONORING Principal James Conway upon the occasion
of his designation as the 2026 "Principal of the
Year" by the School Administrators Association of
New York State and the National Association of
Elementary School Principals

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to take note of
and publicly acknowledge individuals of remarkable integrity and
character whose endeavors have enhanced the quality of education in the
State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Principal James Conway upon the occasion of his designation as the 2026
"Principal of the Year" by the School Administrators Association of New
York State and the National Association of Elementary School Principals;
and

WHEREAS, James Conway has contributed to the excellence and success
of Lake George Elementary School and is the quintessential selection for
the "Principal of the Year" Award; and

WHEREAS, This prestigious recognition comes during a milestone year
for James Conway, who will retire at the conclusion of the 2025-2026
school year after 18 years of dedicated leadership at Lake George
Elementary School and a 36-year career in education; and

WHEREAS, James Conway has built a school community grounded in
connection, care, and high expectations for all students and under his
leadership, Lake George Elementary School has grown into one of the
highest-performing schools in the Capital Region while maintaining a
strong focus on the whole child-academically, socially, and emotionally;
and

WHEREAS, During James Conway's tenure as Principal, Lake George
Elementary School has earned numerous recognitions, including
designation as a New York State Recognition School, a U.S. News Best
School, and a Leader in Me Lighthouse School, an honor achieved by only
a select number of schools worldwide; these accomplishments reflect
Conway's unwavering commitment to student growth, leadership
development, and inclusive practices that ensure every child has the
opportunity to thrive; and

WHEREAS, James Conway has continuously demonstrated impressive
dedication, unparalleled devotion and an unremitting enthusiasm for the
quality of the educational programs and opportunities offered at his
school; and

WHEREAS, Beyond academics, James Conway has championed opportunities
for students to explore their interests, resulting in nearly 100 percent
participation in co-curricular activities, and his commitment to
building strong partnerships with families and the broader community has

further strengthened the school's foundation and sense of connection;
and

WHEREAS, A defining feature of James Conway's leadership has been
his belief that every student has a voice and the ability to lead;
through the Leader in Me framework and a strong emphasis on student
engagement, Lake George Elementary School has fostered a culture where
students take ownership of their learning, participate in leadership
opportunities, and feel a deep sense of belonging within their school;
and

WHEREAS, As he prepares for his retirement, James Conway leaves
behind a lasting legacy defined by innovation, compassion, and an
unwavering belief in students; his influence will continue to be felt in
the programs he established, the culture he nurtured, and the countless
lives he has impacted; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to now record its
recognition and appreciation in honoring an outstanding educational
leader, whose dedication and achievements have been instrumental in
developing character and academic excellence in his students; now,
therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Principal James Conway upon the occasion of his designation as the
2026, "Principal of the Year" by the School Administrators Association
of New York State and the National Association of Elementary School
Principals; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Principal James Conway.