How Did They Get There? Dr. Alan Baum, Ward Melville Principal

Alan Baum is going into his fourth year as principal of Ward Melville High School. A graduate of Commack High School South and SUNY Oneonta, he practiced law in Three Village after graduating from Albany Law School. A Three Village resident himself, Baum, 49, is married with two children. He decided to make education his second career, teaching in the school before taking the position of principal. 

Patch: How do you feel your education prepared you for your careeer in the real world?
AB: I believe I got an outstanding high school education. When I was in Commack they pressed us and forced us to reach levels we didn't think we were able to achieve. It was very well rounded and fun at the same time. I think I didn't appreciate that until I was out in college ... when I was with my peers I realized I had a better foundation than other students who didn't have the same education.

Patch: If 10 years ago you had to guess where you'd be now, what would it have looked like?
AB: Ten years ago I thought I would be in school administration. Maybe principalship wasn't on my horizon, but I considered a leadership role. 

Patch: What do you love about your job, and what would you change?
AB: The change part is the easiest – all the paperwork. I love interacting with all the students and staff; I love having the ability to impact. It's really exciting to see the students so engaged in their work, this school in particular is an electrifying atmosphere.... It's very exciting to participate in all aspects of the high school experience.

Patch: What was it like having your daughter and her friends in your school? [Baum's daughter, Camryn, graduated this past year.]
AB: In school, there was no impact. I rarely saw my daughter in the hallways, and she would never seek me out. Our lives never interfered and crossed. At home it was fine, it didn't bother me and I hope it didn't bother my daughter too much. I know it was difficult for her to hear [her peers talk about me] at times, but she understood. She handled it with grace and dignity.

Patch: What advice do you give graduates?
AB: You conduct yourselves with the utmost ethical and moral integrity. You strive to do your very best to improve our world, community and society. I always tell the kids, don't cut corners, take risks, be truthful to yourself and others, never stop learning.

Patch: What advice would you give your former self?
AB: I don't have regrets – people ask me, "If you knew you were going into education, would you do that prior to law?" No. I think my legal background was invaluable to me, then and now. It allows me to be a critical thinker and enhances my listening, reading and writing skills. Some people say I work too hard, so maybe I'd say kick back a little more. I'm usually here before the sun and I stay late. I'd say pay more attention and be with my family more.