Washington Enjoys Successful First Week of School

Washington Primary School wrapped up the first week of the 2025/26 school year with everyone happy as the students headed toward their respective bus last Friday.

“All of our Washington Winners are settling in nicely with their new classmates, teachers, support staff, and friends,” Principal Michelle Richards said. “Books are in hand. Minds are computing. And hearts are filled with kindness as we begin our journey to a wonderful school year.”

A new school year always brings with it excitement and that’s certainly the case at Washington Primary School, located on Whitson Road in Huntington Station.

An assortment of new faculty and staff members will be calling Washington School their home after the group filled openings created by retirements and transfers to other Huntington UFSD buildings. The newcomers will be joining veterans of Washington, giving the school a nice mix of teachers and aides.

Dr. Richards has been principal of Washington Primary School since July 1, 2018. She obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology at SUNY Albany and a Master of Science degree in childhood education at City University of New York-Lehman College. She earned a Doctor of Education degree in educational administration and supervision at St. John’s University. She studied for her state administrative certification at CUNY-Queens College.

At the time of her appointment in Huntington, Dr. Richards was an assistant principal in the Elmont School District since 2013 and an administrator there since 2009. She began her career as a general education teacher in New York City. She worked at Public School 107x (2001-03) and Lewis H. Latimer School-PS 56K (2003-06). She later taught in Elmont at Gotham Avenue School from 2006-09.

“The 2025/26 school year will be magical,” Dr. Richards said. “Washington Primary School is a place where every student excels in their academic achievement and social emotional development. Everyone is welcome at Washington! Everyone is celebrated at Washington! It’s the Washington Winning Way!”