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Principal Kristin Cipriano: Dedicated leader whose career has come full circle at Lincoln School

Principal Kristin Cipriano: Dedicated leader whose career has come full circle at Lincoln School

Kristin Cipriano is a dedicated leader whose career has come full circle at Lincoln School. As a former Lincoln student turned principal, she brings over 20 years of classroom experience and a deep commitment to fostering a safe, nurturing and high-achieving environment for every student. See what Ms. Cipriano has to say about her professional and educational journey in Mount Vernon below.

It is a rare and beautiful privilege to lead the very school that shaped my own childhood. To the Lincoln School community, I am not just your principal — I am someone whose life and career have come completely full circle right here in Mount Vernon. 

Having walked these same hallways as a Lincoln School student, my deep-rooted connection to this school, its families and our vibrant city shines through in everything I do. I know firsthand the incredible potential that lives within our classrooms because I was once sitting exactly where our students sit today. 

Two Decades of Classroom Dedication 

Before stepping into school leadership, I spent 20 dedicated years as a classroom teacher right here at Lincoln School. During those two decades, I had the joy of fostering a love for reading, critical thinking and self-belief in generations of Mount Vernon’s youth. This extensive classroom experience shapes how I lead today, ensuring that student-centered learning and strong teacher support are always at the heart of my mission. 

A Lifelong Commitment to Learning 

I am a passionate, lifelong learner and my academic journey reflects my deep commitment to bringing the best educational practices home to our community: 

  • Bachelor of Science in Education: Saint John’s University 
  • Master of Science in Literacy Education: College of New Rochelle 
  • Administrative Leadership Program: College of Saint Rose 

My Promise to Our School 

As a proud product and lifelong educator in the Mount Vernon public school system, my goal is simple: to cultivate a safe, nurturing and high-achieving environment where every single student feels seen, valued and inspired to reach their full potential. 

Education is about building a community where students feel safe to dream, explore and grow into the leaders of tomorrow. Having once sat in these very classrooms, I am deeply honored to guide Lincoln School into its next bright chapter alongside our incredible staff and families.

Snapshots from Birdwatching at Hartley Park with students at Lincoln School.

The BRSS Audubon Society has returned to Lincoln School with their exciting “Learn Birds Are Cool in School” enrichment program, giving students a unique opportunity to explore the fascinating world of birds and nature.

Two women stand by table with food ingredients as girl in apron works on other side

Director of School Food Services Donna M. Jackson recently brought hands-on learning to life during a mini cooking class with eighth-graders at Lincoln School. Students explored healthy, simple recipes, starting with a popcorn ranch spice blend before moving on to a more involved spring salad. The experience highlighted both a learning gap in basic food preparation skills and a powerful opportunity: students’ enthusiasm to try something new and embrace healthier choices.  

Students on trip with teacher and principal.

On Saturday, April 11, sixth-grade students from the Lincoln School Strings Program attended a very special concert, Happy 250th Birthday America, at The Reformed Church of Bronxville. The performance marked the finale of the Concordia Conservatory’s Hoch Chamber Music Series and featured an outstanding ensemble of professional musicians performing works by Aaron Copland, Leonard Bernstein, and Bernard Herrmann.

Mount Vernon police with students posing for the camera.

On Friday, March 13th, students at Lincoln School were treated to a special and heartwarming surprise. Thanks to the generous efforts of the Mount Vernon Police Department, in collaboration with Cupcake Cutie Boutique, students enjoyed a delicious cup of hot cocoa along with an assortment of sweet treats. Officer Johnson, Lieutenant Terry, and Detective Jones arrived in style, rolling up in the Cupcake Cutie mobile and bringing smiles, warmth, and a wonderful sense of community with them.