It was the morning of January 8 at Francis Lewis High School when Dr. Marmor walked into the annex multipurpose room for what he thought would be a normal start to the day. Instead, he was surprised with a retirement brunch as music filled the room and staff, students, and community members gathered to celebrate his 25 years in education.
“I did not know that there was going to be all of the spectacle of my superintendent and all of the public officials that were there,” Principal Dr. Marmor said. “I did not know about the proclamations that were going to come. So yes, it was a very pleasant surprise.”
The event, which was coordinated by FLHS staff, highlighted Dr. Marmor’s impact on the school community and beyond. Speakers throughout the morning emphasized his willingness to work with families, staff, and elected officials to advocate for students and improve the school.
“He’s relentless, that’s for sure,” New York State Senator John Liu said. “He knows what he wants, and then tries to gain consensus from the teachers, the rest of the staff, and even the parents in the community.”
Dr. Marmor’s commitment to Francis Lewis students and staff is reflected in the changes the school has seen over the years, including the construction of the annex and the creation of the culinary arts program.
“He had to go out to all kinds of community meetings and interact with politicians, and write them letters, along with going to their offices,” Assistant Principal of Science and Culinary Arts Ms. Babbar said. “All these great changes you’re seeing are happening as a result of his advocacy. I don’t know if students realize that’s a part of the job of a principal, but it is, and it’s a very important part of the job.”
Dr. Tu, Superintendent of Queens North High Schools, also spoke about Dr. Marmor’s leadership style, describing him as a “brain surgeon” for his ability to ask questions that pushed people to rethink their perspectives.
“He has been the strong voice around special education and what we should be doing for students with IEPs, beyond just the basics,” Dr. Tu said. “He represents the voice of leaders and adults and shows how we can speak up against power when it’s wrong.”
Several members of the FLHS community shared how Dr. Marmor’s leadership affected them personally. Assistant Principal Ms. McGuirk highlighted his mentorship and his willingness to take on difficult issues.
“The biggest thing that stands out to me is the way he really took on the cell phone ban and the bullying on social media,” Ms. McGuirk said.
As Dr. Marmor approaches retirement as principal at Francis Lewis High School, he reflected on what he will miss most about his time in the building.
“I’ll miss the kids the most by far. It’s not even really close,” Dr. Marmor said. “I will certainly miss many of the adults, but if you ask me what I’m going to miss the most, it’s the small interactions I have with individual kids every day.”
