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Overcast East Rockaway, Lynbrook schools reorganize
One new face, one new president
The East Rockaway Board of Education meetings will have a different look to them when school starts up again in September, as Kristin Ochtera begins her first year as board president and John Giannotti launches his first term on the board.
Ochtera, who has served on the board since 2010, said she is excited undertake the responsibilities of president and is prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.
“Right now in East Rockaway, we are seeing dynamic changes,” she said. “There is a lot of energy in the district and we need it. There’s no escaping the challenges facing East Rockaway. They aren’t unique to us either. The board and the administration realize that and are determined meet those demands.”
She added that she has enjoyed her time on the board and said that East Rockaway is on the rise. “I find it to be energizing and love getting to know people throughout the district,” Ochtera said. “We have received valuable feedback. I’m looking forward to the coming year.”
Giannotti is in the preliminary stages of getting to know the position he was elected to in May. He said his fellow board members and the district’s administrators have been a great help in making the transition a smooth one.
“I think the most important thing is to learn the position and what it entails,” he said. “I know it’s easy when you’re on the outside looking in, but once you’re in that seat there’s a lot to learn. I want to be the best board member that I can be.”
He added that his biggest concern is the budget for the upcoming school year and looks forward to delving into budgetary items in the near future.
For both Ochtera and Giannotti, the 2012-13 school year is something they’re looking forward to, but also one that presents obstacles. “Our challenges are our opportunities and we will make the most of them,” Ochtera said.
The Lynbrook school board
Heading into the 2012-13 school year, Lynbrook’s Board of Education remains relatively unchanged. The lone difference from the 2011-12 school year is Dr. William Kayen and Ellen Marcus trading positions. Marcus is the new board vice president, while Kayen has taken over as secretary.
