Former Cardozo principal passes away

Richard “Rick” Hallman, who served as principal of Benjamin N. Cardozo High School for many years, passed away on Friday, January 23. He was 58.
Known for his easy-going nature and caring personality, Hallman’s sudden death occurred less than one year after he retired. Hallman served as principal of Cardozo for nine years before he retired in June of 2008.
After learning about Hallman’s death, students remembered his smile every morning as they went to class.
“Mr. Hallman was a very special human being, and one of the nicest people I have ever met,” said Brandon Greenberg, a junior.
Other than his kind personality, Hallman was also known for his knowledge of science. He published several textbooks, most notably The Living Environment: Biology, which is widely used in New York City high schools.
On the Monday after Hallman’s death, current Cardozo Principal Gerald Martori sent a letter to parents about the passing of his predecessor and said that counselors would be available to talk to students.
“We will miss his caring, his friendship, and his wisdom and hold his memory in our hearts,” Martori said.
Two days later, on Wednesday, January 28, students organized a candle light ceremony that took place outside the school, where more than 100 students and teachers braved the cold weather to share fond memories of their beloved former principal.
“I have heard from being here that this was a special place for him [Hallman], and he was a very special leader to the staff and students here,” Martori said.
Prior to coming to Cardozo, Hallman served as an assistant principal at Forest Hills High School.