Phil Ames was born and raised in Plattsburgh, New York. In 1943, he graduated from high school and enlisted in the United States Navy and ultimately, was sent to the South Pacific. He and June, his college sweetheart, graduated from Plattsburgh State in 1950 and were married soon after. They have five children, Stephen, Nancy, Betsy, Timothy and David, ranging in age from 54 to 64.

Mr. Ames’ first position, as an educator, was in Troy, New York where he taught until 1953. At that time, he went to England on a Fulbright Exchange Program. Phil returned to the United States and accepted a position as an elementary principal in Watervliet, New York. He moved his family to Long Island in 1957 to become principal of the Main School and then Santapogue School in the West Babylon School District. In 1981, he decided to retire. A decision Mr. Ames regrets even today. “Santapogue had everything … strong parent support, beautiful children and a dedicated staff. It was the best job an educator could have.”

In 1982, Mr. Ames returned to West Babylon as the interim superintendent. He later was voted in, with a three year contract, as superintendent by a unanimous decision of the Board of Education. Mr. Ames felt, initially, “it was fun and challenging”; however, by the time he left, “it was just plain challenging”. Phil believes that whatever you do, it should be fun, and that includes your job.

After retirement, Phil and June traveled the country in a motorhome. Settling down, they spend the winters in Florida. No longer a golfer, Phil generally reads non-fiction. Phil and June spend as much time as possible with their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Mr. Ames considers himself to be a very happy man.