Part of the #PortPride

I walked into a store in Wurtsboro wearing my new Port Jervis hat. The owner, whom I’ve been acquainted with for ten years, said, ”What’s up with the Port hat?”  I replied, “I am currently working at Port Jervis Middle School.”  She immediately stood up, smiled, and said, “I love Port Jervis! It's my favorite place. We lived there, my kids are Port grads and so is my husband. His picture is on display there for Academic Excellence, Class of 61’. They all had great experiences at Port, and we still speak of those years with gratitude and pride.” She looked at my PJCSD ID badge and said, “Assistant Principal, that’s a hard job.”  I said, “It can be, but not as difficult as you think when surrounded by faculty and staff who take pride in their school and community.”

Port Pride begins with its people. Scores of alumni have returned to carry on traditions, create new ones, and inspire their students to succeed. Teachers, Support Staff, and Administrators (three of whom I’ve had the honor of working for: Jack Latini, Dr. John Bell, Eileen Cook) set fine examples by living the Port Pride 5. Students come to school in varsity letter jackets, uniforms, theater shirts, and Red and Black that cannot be missed. The student-led announcements always end with an enthusiastic, “Go Port!”

Port Pride continues with the buildings. School colors are woven into very clean buildings (thanks to a tireless and dedicated custodial staff). An Alumni Hall of Fame proudly celebrates Port’s distinguished graduates. Photos and trophies line the hallways showing decades of Athletic and Academic excellence. Bronze plaques honor Port’s fallen heroes.  

Something the store owner in Wurtsboro made clear was her love for both the school and the city. I have observed a proud and inseparable connection between PJCSD and the City of Port Jervis. “Port Pride 5”  and “Go Port'' signs can be seen all over town. What I’ve observed in only a few months here, is that the great Engineer, John B. Jervis, would be pleased to know that Port Jervis carries his name proudly!

Brian Lynn is retired a Assistant Principal who worked at Pine Bush, Minisink, Fallsburg and Internationally. Prior to his 30+  years in education, he served as a US Navy Aircrewman. He has ran two marathons, has two holes in one, and has traveled to 16 countries and all 50 States.  

In his ten weeks with us at Port, he has shared his experience and knowledge and has been impressed by the dedication of Port’s Faculty and Staff. He fit in and built meaningful relationships instantly. We appreciate the time he put in at Port Schools.

Want to write a #PortPride blog spot? We want this blog to be written by a variety of people connected to Port Jervis: students, staff, alumni, BOE members, community leaders, and more.  Have a recommendation for a person, program, place, or happening that should be written about?  Reach out to Mr. Marotta at amarotta@pjschools.org or via phone 845-858-3100 x5534

To Mrs. Cook, Mr. Cancredi, Mr. Lazzaro, Mr. Marotta, Dr. Bell, and all Raiders,

Thank you! Proud to be part of your team.  “Go Port!” 

 -Brian Lynn