ALBANY, N.Y. -- The Albany school district is mourning the death of one of its long time employees.

Anthony Clement, who was in his first year as principal of Philip J. Schuyler Achievement Academy, has died of cancer at age 47.

Clement was first hired by the district as a gym teacher back in 1994. Throughout his nearly two decade career, he served as assistant principal or principal at several different schools throughout the district. He took a special interest in getting inner city and at risk kids to college.

Superintendent Ray Colucciello released a statement calling Clement a dear friend and an outstanding teacher and principal.