As the new school year started, students expected the same routine to be played out just as every other year.  To our surprise, our principal, Mr. Manuppelli, held individual and intimate assemblies for each class in the high school announcing his surprising transfer from NAHS to New Milford High School.  With a heavy heart, he explained the reason for his move was not because of the students or anything pertaining to the quality of the school but due to his long commute every day; it was more convenient for himself and his family to work closer to home.

With a young son starting sports and activities, the long distance relationship between him and his work as a principal had put a strain on his family life too great even for him. He seized the opportunity at New Milford High School guaranteeing a shorter commute.  Students and staff alike pulled together at the pep rally to wish Principal Manuppelli a final farewell and good luck on his new position, where mixed feelings seemed to get the better of him as he delivered his final speech as an official Viking.

For Mr. Manuppelli, the door as a Viking has closed, but a new door has just been opened with opportunities and endless support from his colleagues, students, and friends at North Arlington High School.  His contributions and restless hours of working toward the betterment of our school will not be forgotten, but forever live on in the people who knew him best.  As Mr. Manuppelli would say: “VIKINGS”