Page 27 - JOHN DIPAULA POY APPLICATION 2021

Dr. DiPaula has established a strong commitment to high standards for himself, administrative team, staff, and student population by placing learning at the center of their daily activities. He has created a strong climate for instruction by cultivating leadership and involving all stakeholders in his vision for academic success. Dr. DiPaula strongly believes that all students are capable of learning and attaining their goals. In a very diverse school such as Hammond, that starts with his viewpoint of the importance of being present. Every morning, he can be found in the front of the building joyfully and enthusiastically greeting students, many by name, as they begin their day! Rarely will Dr. DiPaula be found sitting behind his desk, but instead found in classrooms, hallways, and throughout the building engaging in meaningful conversations with students and staff. He is visible, accessible and attentive!
Dr. DiPaula has developed a professional community where teachers can collaborate and make use of common planning, which had not been implemented at Hammond prior to his arrival. This and several other changes to the management of the school emanated from staff requests. Dr. DiPaula is receptive, proactive, and trusts input from staff to enhance the overall atmosphere of the school. He has empowered his Instructional Team Leaders to share in the decision-making process and play a more significant role in the management and direction of the school. He effectively delegates tasks and responsibilities to his Assistant Principals allowing them to become proficient, gain experience, and accomplish a shared vision of what can make Hammond better.
He works relentlessly to improve Hammond through establishing a more suitable climate for learning. Dr. DiPaula utilizes the data for many purposes such as; to drive instruction, identify weaknesses, increase support in areas of need and celebrate success. Through creative staffing, training, and management, Dr. DiPaula has been able to reduce out-of-school student suspensions from 122 in 2017 to 45 in 2019 (%). College/Career Readiness Indicators have increased from 59.9% in 2017 to 68.5% in 2019. Graduation Rate 90.15% in 2017 to 91.29 in 2018.
Under Dr. DiPaula, Hammond gained National Recognition as a School of Opportunity. Lastly, Dr. DiPaula is overseeing the renovation of Hammond High is overseeing the 90-million- dollar renovation of Hammond High School. Dr. DiPaula believes that Hammond High School is the centerpiece of our community and he wants to ensure that Hammond students get the facility they deserve.