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John F. Kennedy School

Principal Message

JFK Elementary School Principal Denisha Van Liew

Group of people wearing blue shirts on boardwalk Students in aprons posing with pasta night sign

Students holding hearts in classroom for World Kindness Day Group of children and adults wearing matching t-shirts

Class of students posing in classroom with books Group of children and woman posing on stage

children in blue shirts lined up on grass large group of people wearing matching navy t-shirts outdoors

Four children and one woman standing by a bulletin board

boy presenting project about paper towels in classroom Child presenting project board holding a kitten

Two boys standing next to a giraffe display student using purple materials at classroom table

Two boys and one woman posing in a hallway Man with two girls in red dresses indoors

the school event attendees pose for a group photo. Highlights from the school event.

two students playing a game while seated on cushions A candid moment at the school event.

Participants celebrate during the school event.

The 2026-2027 school year marks my eighth year as principal of John F. Kennedy Elementary School. I take pride in leading a school community that holds such a special place in my heart. As a proud graduate of the West Babylon Senior High School, I understand firsthand the values, traditions, and strong sense of community that make this district such a wonderful place for children to grow and thrive.

Over the past seven years, I have had the privilege of working alongside a dedicated staff, supportive families, and, most importantly, incredible students. Together, we have built a culture rooted in academic excellence, kindness, and resilience. Each year brings new opportunities for growth.

Before returning home to West Babylon, I served as an elementary teacher, assistant principal, and acting principal at West Middle Island Elementary School. Those experiences helped shape the leader I am today, and I’m grateful to now be serving the very community that shaped me.

I hold a Bachelor of Science degree from LIU Post and a Master of Science degree from Dowling College, along with advanced certificates in School Building Leadership and School District Leadership. But beyond the credentials, my greatest strength lies in the relationships built with our students, staff, and families.

I look forward to another year of learning, growing, and working together to provide our JFK students with the best academic experience possible.