Fresh Meadows: Councilmember Sandra Ung presented a New York City Council Proclamation honoring retiring Principal Dr. David Marmor, who is ending a 25-year career with the Department of Education, including the last 14 years as principal of Francis Lewis High School.
“Under Dr. Marmor’s leadership, Francis Lewis didn’t just rise to meet challenges, it set new standards,” said Councilmember Ung. “He cultivated a culture of respect and high expectations that has shaped generations of students. He proved that a public school serving thousands of young people from all backgrounds can maintain world-class academic performance, graduate students at exceptional rates, and send them on to colleges and careers with confidence.”
With over 4,400 students representing a diverse and dynamic community, under Dr. Marmor’s stewardship Francis Lewis High School has earned a reputation as one of New York City’s premier public schools. U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks the school among the top high schools in the state, while Niche.com places it in the top 3 percent nationwide. Its graduation rate remains above 90 percent, and more than four out of five graduates pursue higher education within six months.
“Dr. Marmor brought a strategic vision and calm leadership to Francis Lewis High School,” said Councilmember Ung. “Despite operating for years at nearly double its intended capacity, he never wavered from his commitment to providing students with the tools, support, and resources they needed to succeed. His ability to guide such a large school community toward exceptional outcomes is nothing short of remarkable.”
Dr. Marmor oversaw significant expansions to meet the academic and extracurricular interests of his students. In 2022, the school opened a 555-seat state-of-the-art annex complete with modern science labs, a professional-grade kitchen, and flexible classrooms. The annex not only helped alleviate overcrowding but also created new opportunities for academic innovation, including the launch of the school’s Culinary Arts Program.
Councilmember Ung noted that while Dr. Marmor’s leadership will be deeply missed, his legacy will continue to live on both in the culture he helped build within the school’s halls, and even more importantly in the lives of the students who found their voice, confidence, and passions under his guidance.
“Dr. Marmor leaves behind a model of what strong, student-centered leadership in public education can look like,” said Councilmember Ung. “I want to thank him for his years of service to the families of Northeast Queens, and I wish him the very best in this next chapter.”
