Class of 2023 Acknowledges Retiring Superintendent in Yearbook

There it is on page 154 of the 2023 volume of “The Huntingtonian” yearbook. Huntington High School’s Class of 2023 sending Superintendent James W. Polansky off into his looming retirement with warm words and a heartfelt acknowledgement of what he has meant to the members of the senior class.

“Superintendent of Schools James W. Polansky has been a familiar face to the Class of 2023, having assumed his position on July 1, 2011 as we were beginning to enter first grade,” states the yearbook. “Since then he has been a constant presence in our lives, visiting our buildings and classrooms, attending our concerts, games and ceremonies and striving to improve our academic and co-curricular experience with dozens of new courses, clubs and teams from robotics and Virtual Enterprise to nine new varsity squads.”

Mr. Polansky’s retirement is set for the close of business on September 1. Until then he is working hours just as long as he ever did, striving to make the district better in every possible way.

“During his time with us, Mr. Polansky has served as president of Section XI and president of the Suffolk School Superintendents Association,” states the yearbook. “He has advanced the modernization of our facilities, including science labs, auditoriums, gyms, playing fields and even hallways. Under his leadership we have reached dizzying heights academically, athletically, musically and in every other possible way.”

Mr. Polansky and the seniors have been able to get to know each other during their tenure in the district. “He’s been accessible to all of us; always willing to listen to our opinions and take them into consideration when decisions need to be made,” the yearbook states. “He has shared in our triumphs and joys and consoled us with kind and understanding words in time of disappointment. He has carried the Huntington banner proudly, with honor and dignity.”

Mr. Polansky will speak with the graduating seniors as a group one final time at this year’s commencement exercises at Blue Devil Stadium on Friday, June 23.

“As we prepare to head out into the world and pursue our dreams, Mr. Polansky has announced he will be retiring and heading off to write the next chapter in his life,” the yearbook states. “But like us, he walks away a Blue Devil always. We have been blessed to shared our Huntington experience with such an understanding and decent man. We wish him a long, happy and healthy retirement and hope we cross paths with him again and again in the future.”