The Half Hollow Hills Central School District proudly announces the appointment of Milton K. Strong as Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Education and Allison Beyersdorf as Principal of West Hollow Middle School. The selections were made from a rich pool of highly qualified candidates who represented a mix of internal applicants and new faces to the district.

 

“At Half Hollow Hills, we prioritize academic excellence, equity and innovation,” said John O’Farrell, Deputy Superintendent. “Dr. Strong and Mrs. Beyersdorf exemplify the leadership qualities that will strengthen our schools, support our students, and advance our mission to provide exceptional learning opportunities.”

 

Their appointments were officially approved at the March 10, 2025, Board of Education meeting and both will assume their new roles on July 1, 2025.

 

Milton K. Strong: A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation

 

Strong, a 1989 Half Hollow Hills graduate, has served as Principal of Half Hollow Hills High School East since 2017, following a distinguished career spanning more than three decades in education. Since joining Half Hollow Hills in 2003 as an Assistant Principal at West Hollow Middle School, he has been instrumental in shaping student-centered learning environments, including leading the MakerSpace initiative and redesigning key academic and collaborative spaces.

 

“Half Hollow Hills is a nationally recognized district known for its passionate educators and engaged community,” said Strong. “I am honored to step into this role and continue fostering innovation, equity and excellence in education.”

 

Strong holds a Doctorate in Educational Policy and Leadership from Hofstra University. He succeeds John O’Farrell, who will assume leadership of the district as Superintendent of Schools for the 2025-2026 school year.

 

Allison Beyersdorf: A Dedicated Leader at West Hollow

 

Beyersdorf has been a pillar at West Hollow Middle School for more than two decades, serving as Assistant Principal since 2008 and previously as a science teacher. Her leadership has been instrumental in school operations, including developing the master schedule and overseeing health and safety protocols.

 

 

“It is an incredible privilege to continue serving the West Hollow community in this new capacity,” said Beyersdorf. “Together with our dedicated staff, students and families, I look forward to building on our shared vision and ensuring that West Hollow is a place where all students thrive.”

 

Beyersdorf earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Scranton, a Master of Science from Long Island University C.W. Post, and an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Educational Leadership from SUNY Stony Brook. She will succeed Steve Hauk, who is retiring at the end of this school year after years of devoted service to West Hollow Middle School.

 

A Commitment to Excellence in Education

 

Half Hollow Hills remains dedicated to fostering exceptional leadership that supports academic success, equity, and student well-being.

 

“Having spent many years in education, I know firsthand how critical strong leadership is to a district’s success,” said Brian L. Conboy, Interim Superintendent. “Dr. Strong and Mrs. Beyersdorf are exceptional educators who bring dedication, expertise and a deep commitment to student success in their new roles. Half Hollow Hills is fortunate to have such talented leaders guiding our schools, and I have no doubt they will continue the district’s tradition of excellence.”

 

The district welcomes Strong and Beyersdorf into their new roles and looks forward to the positive impact they will bring to the Half Hollow Hills community.

 

ABOUT HALF HOLLOW HILLS

 

Located in central Long Island, Half Hollow Hills Central School District serves approximately 7,200 students across five elementary schools, two middle schools and two high schools. Recognized for academic, athletic and artistic excellence, the district is committed to providing equitable opportunities and preparing students for success in a rapidly changing world.