Schools

Mineola School Board President Reflects on Retirements

Five "beloved" educators to retire at end of 2011-12 school year.

“I’ve had the distinct pleasure of knowing most of these individuals throughout my 20 years here as a parent in the school district,” President Christine Napolitano said at a meeting on January 19 at the . “Each of them has brought a unique talent to our school district and all have tremendously contributed to the care and education of our children.”

The five individuals about whom she was speaking were the personnel who would be retiring at the end of the 2011-12 school year. The list includes guidance suervisor Hilary Bernstein, principal Mark Barth, fifth grade teacher Sidney Burgreen, as well as “two of our beloved school nurses,” Donna Hasan and Lois Haque, none of whom were present at the meeting.

“You have tended to the boo-boos of all my children throughout the years,” Napolitano said of Hasan. “Your tender heart and your sincere love of children reaches far beyond the band-aids and the ice packs you gave out by the thousands.”

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While she stated did not know Haque personally, yet heard tales similar to Hasan’s, Napolitano spoke “of her warm and caring ways. I know how much the children and the parents will miss them both.”

Reading from prepared remarks, Napolitano next spoke of Bernstein and Barth, “two of our illustrious administrators, whose combined years in Mineola total an astonishing 50 years. Ms. Bernstein’s leadership in the has left an indelible mark on our students, particularly our seniors. Her insight, genuineness and honesty will be forever missed. Mr. Barth, your true love and concern for our children can never be doubted. Your door and your heart will always open to the children ad your kind smile lit up the halls of the middle school. I’m not sure if the middle school or the high school will ever be the same without the two of them.”

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Finally, Napolitano spoke about Burgreen. “I will always have a special place in my heart for you, your gentleness and creativity was contagious and I always loved how you made each and every child feel as if they could achieve anything,” she said. “Never doubt the impact a teacher can have on a child’s life.  I’m sure you have inspired more students than you will ever know.” Napolitano explained that her daughter’s passion of science and pursuit of a doctorate in biochemistry was “infinitely inspired” by Burgreen.

“All of these individuals have combined to make Mineola the very special school district it is,” she said. “I thank each of them for their special service in educating, guiding and nurturing each one of our children and will be forever grateful.”


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