Huntington High Art Teacher Dies

art teacher Robert Potter, who taught ceramics (pottery) and sculpture, died Monday, the school district reported.

"Robert Potter was a brilliant art teacher and one of the most remarkable people I have ever had the privilege to know and work with," said Joan R. Fretz, district director of fine and performing arts. 

The school district said Potter began working in Huntington in September 2006 after embarking on a major change in his career as an artist. After completing a bachelor of fine arts degree at Pratt Institute, he worked for 17 years for famed artist Peter Maxx.

While working as a practicing sculptor and studying for a master's degree in art education at Adelphi University,  Potter came to Huntington High School to observe art teacher Kristin Singer's class. "We knew immediately that he was an incredible artist and teacher," Singer said.  "We followed his career and after student teaching, we were thrilled to welcome him to our Huntington art faculty."

Huntington art teacher Ayallah Jeddah came to Huntington the same year as Mr. Potter. "He was such an inspiration for all of us,"  Jeddah said. "He cared so deeply about his kids and pushed them to express themselves. He made me want to be a better teacher. He was a true teacher through and through."

The district learned  about his death after the high school day ended. School district residents said they got phone calls reporting that Potter had died at home Monday afternoon.

Principal Carmela Leonardi said there was an "outpouring of concern and sadness among students."

"We are all devastated to learn of this news," Superintendent John J. Finello said. "Mr. Potter was a valued member of our family and was very well-regarded by his colleagues and students. Our hearts go out to his wife, Jan and young daughter Isabel. His loss leaves a huge void at Huntington High School."

Potter often spoke of his wife and daughter and the pair was known to be the light of his life. "He loved them dearly," Fretz said.

The art department was especially hit hard by Potter's passing. Teachers were stunned and found it hard to speak. "Teaching was his calling," Singer said. "Rob was meant to be a teacher. He was so passionate about his work and helped his students think on a whole different level. In the short 4½ years he was with us, he touched so many lives."

"We were blessed to have him as a part of our Huntington family," Fretz said. "We will never forget him."

Bruegggman Funeral Home at 522 Larkfield Road, East Northport, is handling services.

Visitation is scheduled for 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with a service set for 8 p.m. Saturday.