Principal Kerry Flynn reflects on her time at Loudonville

After 20 years in the district, Kerry Flynn decided it was time to retire. Flynn has served as the principal of Loudonville Elementary School for the past 16 years. Before she retired in August, we asked her to reflect on her time in the district. Congratulations and best of luck, Ms. Flynn! 

When you look back, what will you remember?

I worked with great team of people. You don’t get to be a leader because of a title, you get to be a leader because people are willing to let you lead them. I’ve had great relationships with the staff and the Loudonville families. Because of this good relationship, we were able to do good things for our kids.

What are some of the highlights from your time in the district?

I’m proud that we were named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education in 2008. We were also named a Reward/Recognition School by NYSED four times.

The academic portion is very important, but I was always motivated and most passionate about working with students on social and emotional learning. That was the most rewarding part for me.

What did you love about Loudonville?

It was great to work in a school where parents always want the best for their kids and the majority of kids. The parents were able to provide solid foundation for students to grow.

The parent support is remarkable. I worked with many committees and PTAs. The relationship we were able to develop with leaders has been very rewarding. 

I was also incredibly fortunate to work with teachers who love their work and were willing to go extra mile.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss the kids the most. I taught a lot of kids how to play chess and checkers and spent time doing art work/projects to help them build social skills. I was always happy to see the students graduate and move on to their next chapters.

I’ll also miss the “Principals’ inquiry group” (PIG). The PIG is an informal support group of internal principals that was a great resource as we took on new challenges. If someone sent a text that said “Oink, oink,” we knew it was time for a meeting.

What are your plans for the future?

I have some initial travel plans to visit Spain, France and Portugal in November. I’m also planning a trip to go hiking in New Zealand for two weeks.

I also hope to volunteer in a clinical pastoral education program where I would provide pastoral care to people in crisis through Albany Medical Center. I hope to start volunteering this fall.

Any additional thoughts before you go?

The one thing that makes this school really special is the front office staff. They are the best in the business. They always are welcoming people and going out of their way to assist people – no matter who walks through the door.

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