Meet Our Principal, Mr. Mattina

Welcome to P.S. 23!

I have proudly served as an educator since 2001. I began my career as a mathematics teacher, spending five years teaching high school math and four years teaching middle school math before joining the P.S. 23 community. I later became the assistant principal and, more than a decade ago, was honored to become the principal of this remarkable school.
As assistant principal, my mission was to work alongside the principal, staff, families, and community partners to transform the school so that it could better meet the needs of every student. As principal, I have continued and expanded that work.
Over the years, we have transformed learning spaces throughout the building. We renovated our auditorium and library and created a hydroponics science lab where students can investigate scientific concepts through hands-on learning. We also developed a modern computer lab, makerspace, and sensory room. These spaces support creativity, innovation, collaboration, and the diverse academic and social-emotional needs of our students.
We have also brought STEAM education to the forefront of our instructional vision. Science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics are integrated throughout the learning experience so that students have opportunities to solve problems, explore their interests, and develop skills that will prepare them for the future.
P.S. 23 was selected by New York City Public Schools as one of the original five schools to launch a specialized reading program designed to address dyslexia and support students experiencing reading difficulties. We began the program in kindergarten and successfully expanded it through fifth grade. I am incredibly proud of the progress our students have made and of the dedication of the educators who have helped this important program grow.
I truly believe in this community, and I believe deeply in the students we serve. My goal is to create a school where every child feels that they are part of a family—a place where they feel valued, seen, heard, supported, and loved.
That belief inspired our school affirmation:
“I believe I am strong.
I believe I am brave.
I believe I am loved.
Most importantly, I believe I can do anything.”
I want every student to understand that with hard work, perseverance, and confidence, they can accomplish anything they set their minds to. They should never allow anyone to tell them that they cannot succeed.