Gallagher ends his run on school board

Long Beach Board of Education President Pat Gallagher held court over his last meeting on June 10, after choosing to retire from the board after 12 years of service.

His colleagues shared well wishes for the educator during the meeting, reflecting on his long career in the district and his commitment to Long Beach students. Gallagher announced in April, ahead of the school board elections, that he would not see re-election. He said that it was his time to move on, and that he wanted to give others in the community a chance to run. His term ends on June 30, and his successor, Maureen Vrona, a newcomer to the board, begins her term on July 1.

Gallagher, 67, was born and raised in Long Beach and graduated from Long Beach High School in 1964. He attended Indiana State University and began his teaching career in Seaford, and retired 34 years later as the principal of Seaford High School. He has also been an adjunct professor at Nassau Community College, Molloy College and Hofstra University, was the chief of lifeguards in Long Beach and now works for the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University.

Trustees lauded Gallagher’s personality, dedication and accomplishments at the meeting.

“Pat Gallagher is a man of conviction, a consummate gentleman and the glue that bonded this school board,” Trustee Stewart Mininsky. “I personally want to thank Pat for being a mentor to me.

The other trustees described Gallagher as selfless, calming and generous. As the longest-serving member of the current board, many of his fellow trustees spoke of his leadership of new members, helping where needed. They said he was a fervent advocate for students, yet never left the taxpayers out of his decisions.

“I will miss your vision. I will miss your knowledge. I will miss your historical viewpoints. I will miss your sense of humor and the respect you show for everyone,” Trustee Darlene Tangney said.