Headmaster's Message

Andrew Stasiw, Headmaster

Welcome to Saint George Academy, a truly special place in the heart of Manhattan’s East Village. For me, this community is more than a school—it’s a living expression of what education can be when rooted in care, curiosity, and connection.

My own path to education was unexpected. After studying music at a conservatory and touring internationally as a pianist, I began my professional life in business, eventually serving as Vice President at a television and film production studio. When a teacher fell ill, I was asked to fill in for a few weeks. That “temporary” assignment became a calling that has defined my life ever since.

Since 2015, I have had the privilege of serving as Headmaster of Saint George Academy. Each day, I am inspired by our students—their intellect, their creativity, and their kindness. I’ve seen them present research at the United Nations, perform with joy on stage, and support one another through every challenge. Their spirit reminds me daily that true education is not just about achievement, but about becoming one’s fullest self.

What makes Saint George exceptional is its humanity. Every teacher here knows each student by name. We celebrate hard work, but also laughter. We value ambition, but also empathy. This is a place where students are encouraged to think critically, to act with integrity, and to discover joy in learning.

As we mark my tenth year as Head of School, I continue to see Saint George Academy as a place of genuine belonging—a place where excellence and happiness coexist. I invite you to visit, to experience the warmth of our community, and to see why so many students call this their second home.

Favorite East Village Spot: Malai Marke on 6th Street—Chicken Tikka Masala every time.

Fun Fact: I’ve performed as a pianist for two U.S. Presidents and once shared a row with Melinda French Gates at the United Nations.

Dr. Rogutsky brings both deep experience and vision to Saint George Academy.  Her academic background reflects the same breadth and ambition she seeks to instill in students. She holds a doctorate in Leadership and Organization from the University of Pennsylvania, additional graduate degrees in Counseling and Special Education, and an undergraduate degree in Political Science with a minor in Russian. She has completed certificate programs in School Leadership at Harvard University and studied theology at Union Theological Seminary and social work at Columbia University.  Dr. Rogutsky is the Program Director of the School Counseling and Bilingual Pupil Personnel Services programs at Manhattan University where she is also a professor in the graduate Counseling and Therapy programs.  Saint George Academy serves as an internship site for graduate students from Manhattan University.

For Dr. Rogutsky, Saint George Academy is not just another school — it is part of her own story. As a child, she attended the Saturday program here, and she vividly remembers dressing as a butterfly and moving through the auditorium downstairs.  Her first meeting with the Saint George students left a lasting impression: “I was completely blown away by how eager they were. They were strivers — they wanted to do better, they wanted to go further. The kinds of intelligent questions they asked, and their maturity about what comes after Saint George, reminded me of some of the most elite students I’ve worked with elsewhere.”

Today, that impression fuels her leadership. As Associate Head of School for Strategic Projects, Dr. Rogutsky is driving the school’s application to become an International Baccalaureate World School, updating curriculum, strengthening student support systems, and building new partnerships with colleges and organizations. Her goal is clear: to create optimal educational experiences in which all students can learn and thrive.

When she steps outside the building, Dr. Rogutsky enjoys the flavors of the East Village — from the Ayurvedic vegetarian dishes at Divya’s Kitchen to sauerkraut and mushroom pierogies with beet salad at Veselka. For her, these personal roots and professional commitments are linked by the same purpose: to seek out true nourishment, in every sense — building the conditions where students, families, and communities can flourish.

Warm, efficient, and endlessly resourceful, Ms. Kec is the heartbeat of Saint George Academy’s front office. She is known for “doing everything under the sun”—and doing it with kindness, competence, and calm. Ms. Kec is often the first friendly face families meet, and she delights in helping students and parents feel welcomed, supported, and seen.

Originally from Ukraine, Ms. Kec moved to the United States at age 16. She brings to SGA a deep appreciation for community, culture, and connection. Living in NoMad with her family, she is the proud mother of two boys—including a current SGA Class of 2027 student. Outside of school, Ms. Kec finds joy in life’s simple pleasures—as an avid reader, cook, and lover of nature and movement. Each spring, you’re likely to find Ms. Kec and her family at the Ukrainian Street Festival, one of her favorite city traditions.

Ms. Kec believes Saint George Academy is the right place for students who value a small, close community where everyone knows one another and friendships run deep. “This is a place where people become like a family,” she shares. “I love working here!”