PS/MS 498 Van Nest Academy

Dear VNA School Community,

It is with great pride, humility, and excitement that I write to you as the new Interim Acting Principal of PS/MS Van Nest Academy, effective on September 8, 2026. 

I began my career in the DOE back in 2005 in District 10, where I taught middle school Math and Science.  During my thirteen years at the same D10 school, I became a Lead Teacher, a Peer Collaborative Teacher, and Math Instructional Coach.  I moved on to District 8, where I started my next journey as an Assistant Principal in Soundview/Castle Hill, including experience in a 6-12 building in Hunts Point.     
For the past three years, I have had the privilege of serving as Assistant Principal, working alongside our exceptional students, dedicated educators, supportive families, and committed community partners here at VNA.  During this time, I have come to know firsthand what makes VNA extraordinary—a school where relationships matter, students are at the center of every decision, and our community is united by a shared commitment to excellence.

As we begin this new chapter together, I want to express my deepest appreciation to our founding principal for sixteen years of visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to our school community. Her commitment established the strong foundation upon which VNA has grown and flourished, and I am honored to continue that legacy while leading our school into its next chapter of growth and opportunity.Although my role has changed, my commitment to this community remains the same. I believe every student deserves a learning environment where they feel safe, valued, challenged, and inspired to reach their fullest potential. As Principal, I will continue to lead with integrity, compassion, transparency, and an unwavering focus on student success.
As your principal, my leadership will be grounded around three priorities:

Priority 1 - Academic Excellence: We will provide rigorous, engaging instruction that challenges every student while ensuring targeted support is provided for each learner to thrive.
Priority 2 - A Positive and Inclusive School Community: We will continue to foster a school culture rooted in respect, belonging, restorative practices, and high expectations so that every member of our community feels seen, heard, and valued.
Priority 3 - Partnership with Families and the Community: Families are our students' first teachers and our most important partners. Together, we will strengthen communication, celebrate successes, and work collaboratively to support every child's academic, social, and emotional growth.

As someone who has already had the privilege of serving this school community, I understand both our strengths and the opportunities ahead. I am committed to listening, learning, and working alongside all of you as we continue to build upon the traditions that make VNA special while embracing innovative practices that prepare our students for success in high school, college, careers, and life.
Thank you for your continued trust and partnership. It is truly a privilege to serve as the new Interim Acting Principal of VNA. I look forward to partnering with each of you as we continue our shared mission of empowering every student to achieve excellence.

I wish you and your family a wonderful, safe, and successful school year. I look forward to seeing you soon.

With appreciation and excitement,

Casey Kenny
Principal, I.A.
PS/MS Van Nest Academy