Assistant Principal

Dear Families,

My name is Damaris Hardial and with nearly 10 years of experience in education, I am honored to serve as your Assistant Principal. Throughout my career, I’ve been deeply committed to supporting students both academically and personally. I believe in creating a positive, inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential. I look forward to working closely with our families, staff, and community to help our students succeed and grow into responsible, productive members of society. Let's work together to be the champions our children need and deserve. 

“Every child deserves a champion—an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.” - Rita Pierson

Best, 

Damaris Hardial

Dr. Aaron D. Johnson is a dedicated advocate for children, education, and community empowerment who
inspires young people to dream beyond the boundaries of their neighborhoods. He champions diligence,
hard work, and focus as pathways for students to achieve their aspirations.

For over 15 years, Dr. Johnson taught Global Studies, African American Studies, and Criminal Justice at Bay
Shore Senior High School before becoming Assistant Principal at Freeport High School. An award-winning
educator and speaker, he has been widely recognized for his unwavering commitment to equity, social
justice, activism, and child advocacy. He has also served as keynote speaker at numerous commencement
ceremonies, motivating graduates and their families with his message of perseverance and possibility.

Dr. Johnson’s civic and professional contributions have been honored with a New York State Proclamation for
education and activism from the State Assembly, multiple citations from Assemblyman Philip Ramos for his
dedication to children, and recognition from Suffolk County Legislator Ricardo Montano for his outstanding
service to the community. He has also received commendation from Congressman Steve Israel for his
continuous dedication to serving others.

Academically, Dr. Johnson holds a Doctor of Education from St. John’s University and a Master of Arts in
Liberal Studies with a concentration in History from SUNY Stony Brook University. He earned dual
Bachelor’s degrees in Adolescence Education (7–12) and Social Studies from SUNY College at Old Westbury,
and in History from Southern Connecticut State University, where he attended on a full basketball athletic
scholarship.