New Director of Physical Education, Health and Athletics,

Dr. Giarrizzo said, "Throughout the interview process, Shawn spoke specifically about building relationships and strengthening programs in collaborative ways. His responses about physical and health education were focused on the developmentally appropriate skills and concepts that students would need to master in order to facilitate their wellness as well as their lifetime fitness and longevity. Shawn’s priorities in athletics were articulated around resilience, culture, pride, and goal setting. He emphasized the importance of establishing structured approaches to practices, contests, and both the individual and collective progressions as a sport and among the total athletics program."

Mr. Baumann will join Mount Pleasant from the New York City Department of Education where he has been serving as the Athletic Director and physical education teacher at Maspeth High School in Queens, NY. He has also served as a Health and Physical Education teacher as well as a Dean of Students in the New York City DOE. In addition to coaching Women’s Volleyball at the collegiate level, Shawn also served as an Emergency Medical Technician for the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) as well as a Volunteer Firefighter in Queens. 

In anticipation of his appointment, Mr. Baumann said, “I would like to thank the Board of Education, Dr. Giarrizzo and the members of the search committee for this amazing opportunity. It was immediately clear how special the Mount Pleasant School District is and the care the community has for each other. I truly look forward to working together to help continue the growth of our students, student-athletes, teachers and coaches in the classroom, on the field and as leaders of our community. It will be my pleasure to help foster the progress and achievements as a district and community that we will accomplish together. Thank you once again for allowing me to be a part of Westlake. I can’t wait to get started.”

Dr. G. added, "I believe that under Shawn’s leadership, our community and district programs will thrive through emphasis on a unified approach to athletics across Westlake. He will be an eager partner with our youth groups. Throughout the interview process, we were impressed by the way that he leverages student voice and engagement. Shawn possesses a strong work ethic, commitment to communication, positive temperament, and the necessary organizational skills that will enable him to build and maintain strong programming for all students. Please join me in welcoming Shawn to the Westlake Family."

Mr. Baumann holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from Brooklyn College and a Master of Science Degree in Sports Management.  Shawn also holds an Advanced Certificate in Health Education from Lehman College and a second Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Queens College.