For the first time in 11 years, a new principal will be roaming the hallways of John Paulding School next fall.

Current Principal Marilyn Mercado-Belvin is retiring next October to spend more time with her family, a decision she admitted wasn’t easy after being an educator for 33 years.

“It was a very difficult decision because I love what I do,” she said. “When I look at my personal side and my professional side, it might be time to move on. It’s time to give back to my family.”

Mercado-Belvin started her education career as a teacher in New York City for 15 years before becoming a principal for five years. She then taught in Peekskill for two years. However, she admitted her dream was to always work in the school district where her in-laws resided, and when the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns were looking for a principal at John Paulding, she couldn’t resist applying.

“It was just there. I just love Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow,” she said. “I still love this community dearly. It will always be in my heart.”

Meanwhile, Sleepy Hollow High School will also be searching for a new assistant principal, as Alan Alterbaum will be retiring this summer after more than 28 years in the district.