What was your favorite memory of Perry Stio?

“My favorite memory was his Halloween costumes. Especially the shower.”

-Chase Parra

How did you know Perry Stio?

“Mr. Stio did student teaching in the 4th grade class I was in at School #9 in Port Reading. Many years later his son Vinny was in my 6th grade math class while I was teaching at Avenel Middle School. We talked at Open House about what a small world we live in. It was nice to see him again.”

-Christina Coppola

What was your favorite memory of Perry Stio?

“When my mom was on PTO at Randolphville, Mr. Stio took the time to entertain the "PTO kids" who were taken along to meetings. I have a particularly fond memory of him giving us rides down a ramp in a lunch cart, like a mini roller coaster.”

-Connor Dunham

What was your favorite memory of Perry Stio?

“Having breakfast with Mr Stio and him sharing funny stories with me. After breakfast we will find the best places to talk a long walk. Just being in his presence made me very happy. I miss him a lot but I’m happy to have the best memories 💜🌻💜”

-Indira Wojcik

What was your favorite memory of Perry Stio?

“Mr. Stio was my principal at Randolphville Elementary School. I still remember when I was in 2nd grade and learned that he would be leaving. He was also so nice to all the kids and always had a smile on his face. The fondest memory I can think of was Field Day. The reason this stood out was the “Dunk the Principal” contest, where Mr. Stio would sit on the ledge of the tank and try his hardest to distract us while we tried to dunk him. Outside of school, Mr. Stio was my neighbor for a while before he moved. During Halloween, he used to give my sister (who has had him as a Principle) and I the most unique treats. One time he ran out of candy and gave us a bunch of chips. I was always remember Mr. Stio. “

-Aarav Desai

How did you know Perry Stio?

“Mr. Stio was my favorite principal, my American grandfather, and my friend. I remember the first time I met him. I was 4 or 5 years old and my mom and I were going to tour Randolphville because it was time to start kindergarten. I remember being excited but nervous and he was so warm and friendly, he spoke to me like we were old friends. Before I knew it we were, I would see him almost every morning in early care throughout my time at Randolphville. He stayed close friends with me and my family, over the many years we’ve shared breakfasts, spent time helping him around the house, and every so often, we’d find a surprise cheesecake or bottle of sangria waiting on our front step. His thoughtfulness knew no bounds. Through high school and college he would take the time to call and chat with me about anything and everything. He was such a constant presence in my life. When I graduated college, I asked him to be there and without hesitation his answer was yes. We had the best time, and when his flight got rescheduled we got even more time and I’m so grateful for that. Mr. Stio taught me to lead with kindness and to always try and see the best in others. I’m so glad that this foundation exists to further his legacy of kindness and selflessness. He was one of my favorite people and he will always be missed. “

-Maiya Dabare

What was your favorite memory of Perry Stio?

“The ‘Dunk Stio’ reading competitions and his halloween costumes still bring a smile to my face. He was funny, thoughtful, encouraging and everything an educator and administrator should strive to be.”

-Thomas Stewart

Story/Memory from Randolphville as a student:

“Mr. Stio was the best. During the spring in Randolphville, I couldn’t go outside for recess because of my pollen allergies, so I had to sit in the main office instead. One day, he noticed me there, and from then on, he invited me to spend recess in his office. I always enjoyed that time and never once felt like I was missing out.

He would share his snacks and his love of Snapple. I even started collecting Snapple caps because I liked the fun facts inside them. Soon, he began saving his caps for me and would give them to me every so often. Even though he was my principal, it felt like a genuine friendship. His kindness was unmatched, and I’ll always be grateful.”

-Sheel Vakil