By Nuvneet Desai
With the new year finally opening its arms to all students, kindergarten through seniors, Irvington has taken a big step with introducing a new position: the Dean of Students. This new role was first announced two months after the controversial cellphone ban was introduced and signed by Governor Kathy Hochul.
The Dean of Students has multiple responsibilities such as enforcing the cellphone ban, while also surveying students and supporting student life and learning. Ferhad Razzak or Dean Razzak has extensive experience working as a 6th grade English Teacher at White Plains City School District for more than 15 years. He later became the Elementary Summer School Assistant Teacher for a year before transferring to Irvington.
With Dean Razzak having many duties and responsibilities throughout the school day, I was lucky enough to interview him and ask his thoughts on becoming the new Dean of Students here at IMS and IHS. When asked about why he switched to Irvington and also to the new role, Razzak stated, “After 15 years in the classroom, I didn’t want to lose daily contact with students. The Dean position excited me because it gave me the chance to become an administrator while still working closely with students every day.”
Razzak later explained his personal ties to Irvington, which he shared: “I grew up in Yonkers, not far from here. Back in high school, I visited Irvington through a program, and I’ve been familiar with the community ever since. It feels nice to come back.”
When asked about the controversial cell phone ban, Razzak stressed both the challenges and benefits, “It’s unfortunate that the cellphone ban and this new role have become synonymous, but it’s the law, and we want to uphold it. I’ve already seen the benefits—students are making eye contact, saying hello, and being more engaged with each other. I think social interactions have really increased.”
But Razzak wants students to know his role goes beyond enforcement. He shares, “A big part of being Dean is presence—being visible, engaging with student clubs, activities, and reminding students of their responsibilities. I don’t want to be seen as just a Dean of Discipline, but as a Dean of Students. I want to partner with students to prevent issues, not just respond to them.”
Looking ahead, he said his main goal is simple: “To meet as many students and families as possible. Everyone already has a head start on me—I’m the new one here. So my goal is to connect with the community and help make Irvington a better place for students.”
Dean Razzak is not only here to help enforce the cell phone ban, he is also here to interact and connect positively with students. His vision of building relationships, encouraging kindness and honesty, and supporting student growth sets the tone for what the Dean of Students position can become here at Irvington.
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