As a dedicated member of the Plainview-Old Bethpage (POB) Board of Education, I have been an important part of the team driving our district’s success since I joined in July of 2022. Leading into the first semi-normal year since the pandemic, I focused my efforts on asking critical questions about mental health support for both our students and staff, ensuring everyone was well-supported as we emerged from the challenges of the pandemic. Together with my fellow board members, we have played key roles in hiring exceptional administrators, including two principals, who have significantly contributed to the achievements of our schools. Throughout my tenure, we have held the line on taxes while ensuring that our district’s programs are adequately funded, providing every student with a high-quality education. Our collective commitment to thoroughly researching every decision has been pivotal in making informed choices that benefit our community.
In recognition of my commitment, I have been honored by the New York State School Boards Association (NYSSBA) with the Board Excellence Award and the Board Mastery Award in May 2024, as well as the Board Achievement Award in May 2023. These awards reflect the time I have invested in dedicated training and professional development to become the most effective board member I can be. The hours spent working to better understand the role of a board member and the challenges we face have deepened my ability to serve the district and advocate for our students.
As a team, we have successfully negotiated fair contracts with all of our unions, striking a balance that supports our staff while being mindful of the needs of our taxpayers. During the challenging times of navigating a new normal due to COVID-19, we ensured continuity in education and safety for our students and staff. Recognizing the importance of strong relationships with our elected officials, we worked together to establish an annual legislative breakfast with the board of education and local officials, fostering connections that enable us to better advocate for our district’s needs.
One of the cornerstones of my approach to leadership is my commitment to continuous learning. I always strive to learn and am never shy to ask questions when I don’t know the answer. I believe that no one can ever know everything, and understanding that is vital to effective leadership. This mindset has allowed me to approach challenges with humility and a willingness to grow, which in turn has strengthened my ability to serve our community.
Leveraging my extensive experience in various governmental legislative bodies, I have been an active liaison to the New York State School Boards Association (NYSSBA) annual business meeting, advocating for resolutions that support our students and staff while representing our board’s interests. I believe in the power of teamwork and have consistently worked as a collaborative member of the board, knowing that we achieve more when we work together. In alignment with this belief, I have supported the district’s efforts to be culturally inclusive, ensuring that our schools are welcoming to our diverse and changing community.
Moreover, I have become someone you can expect to see at district events, whether it’s a concert, award ceremony, or other occasions that showcase our students’ skills. My presence at these events reflects my deep commitment to celebrating and supporting the achievements of our children.
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