By Sarah Ng
At East Williston’s Board of Education monthly business meeting Monday, staff members were recognized for their service to the district ahead of their retirements.
The departing staffers included Paul Chisholm, Julie Jacobson, Meryl Fordin, Amy Potter, Leslie Rubin, Kim Wetzel, Virginia Davis, Stephen Collier, Randi Israel, Rochelle Sroka, Rolando Menjivar, Kevin Meyers, Nicholas Fusco and Cesar Morales.
School Superintendent Elaine Kanas gave out certificates to the retiring members, many of whom have 20 plus years of service under their belts.
Kanas read out loud what the certificates say. “Upon your retirement, the East Williston school district presents a certificate and wishes to express its sincere thanks and gratitude for your many years…your commitment to excellence have long inspired all of us and will be remembered for many years to come. We wish you health, happiness and continued success.”
In addition, this school year marks the end of Kanas’ time heading the district. Kanas was given a bouquet from the board.
Dr. Danielle Gately, who will take over Kanas’ role, said to the retiring superintendent, “some of our wishes for you: much more time with your beautiful granddaughter and your soon-to-arrive grandson, lots of travel during non-blackout flight periods, appointments with your trainer at times other than 5:45 AM, gardening when the sun is still out, long leisurely walks that don’t have to be squeezed in between meetings and coffee at home, enjoying the view.”
In unrelated district news, updates on the districtwide safety plan were discussed as well in response to the recent school shooting in Texas.
More digital cameras have been installed, and camera apps on administrators’ phones allow them to view what is going on and call for lockdowns.
In addition, new interior classroom doors are set to be replaced this summer after a delay due to supply chain issues. They will be in locked positions at all times, with swipe access being determined by building administrators.
Sports students were honored at the meeting for their accomplishments this season, as well as acknowledgments of awards, student government elections and upcoming finals.
