Michael Lopez has been appointed Principal of Maple Avenue Middle School and will begin his new role on April 13, 2026.
Mr. Lopez brings extensive experience in educational leadership to the position. He has served as an Assistant Principal at Watervliet Jr.-Sr. High School. Prior to that, he was an Assistant Academy Principal at Albany High School, and he worked as a social studies teacher at West Hill Middle School and Queens Metropolitan High School.
“We are thrilled to welcome Michael Lopez as the new principal of Maple Avenue Middle School,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Patton. “His proven leadership as an educator and administrator, combined with his commitment to fostering academic growth and social-emotional development, make him an excellent leader for our students and staff.”
Mr. Lopez earned a bachelor’s degree in communication from SUNY Cortland, a master’s degree in Adolescent Education with a History concentration from Dowling College, and an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Educational Policy and Leadership from the University at Albany. He holds a permanent New York State certification as a School Building Leader.