Administration

Mr. Anthony Carolini serves as the Principal of Hawthorne Elementary School in the Mount Pleasant Central School District. He brings more than a decade of experience in elementary education as both a classroom teacher and administrator.

Before joining Mount Pleasant, Mr. Carolini served as Assistant Principal at King Street Elementary School in the Port Chester-Rye Union Free School District, where he oversaw instructional programming, student discipline, and teacher supervision. Earlier in his career, he taught in the Elmsford Union Free School District, where he also served as the Building Technology Coordinator.

Mr. Carolini is recognized for his strong instructional leadership, commitment to relationship-building, and deep understanding of child development and pedagogy. He believes in fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment that supports the academic, social, and emotional growth of every student.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Delaware, a Master of Science in Literacy Education from The College of New Rochelle, and a Professional Diploma in School Building Leadership.

Ms. Erica Denman serves as the Assistant Principal of Hawthorne and Columbus Elementary Schools. She brings a wealth of experience in literacy, curriculum development, and instructional leadership to the Mount Pleasant Central School District.

Most recently, Ms. Denman served as Regional Director of the Professional Learning Team and Senior Literacy Consultant at Schoolwide, Inc., where she collaborated closely with Columbus Elementary staff. Previously, she taught at Teachers College, Columbia University, and served as a 4th–6th grade classroom teacher in Merrick, NY, and the New York City Department of Education.

Throughout her career, Ms. Denman has demonstrated a commitment to fostering high-quality instruction, supporting teachers, and nurturing students’ academic, social, and emotional growth. She has extensive experience developing curricula, coaching teachers, and leading professional development programs that align with district initiatives and the Portrait of a Mount Pleasant Learner.

Ms. Denman holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from George Washington University, a Master of Arts in Elementary Education from Teachers College, Columbia University, and a Certificate in Educational Leadership from Stony Brook University.