Russo resigns from Board of Education

After 11 years of dedicated service to the North Shore School District, Marianne Russo announced her resignation from the Board of Education on April 2, citing personal commitments that require her full attention. Russo, who was first elected to the board in 2013, has been a prominent figure in advocating for the students and community of North Shore schools.

Russo, 62, a lawyer, has worked in real estate, contract and labor law. After running unsuccessfully for the first time in 2012, she ran again and won in 2013, and said she was inspired to run because she felt that her legal skill set would provide an important perspective to the board’s functions.

"I ran because I felt that there was a disconnect with some members of the Board of Education with segments of the community, and I felt that there were segments of the community that were unrepresented that I could help represent,” the Glen Head resident said. “I didn’t feel that there was anyone else on the board who had the same background and that I could bring some outside knowledge to the board that was otherwise missing.”

Throughout her tenure, Russo was instrumental in various aspects of board responsibilities serving on the construction steering committee, providing insights into planning processes and advocating for the district's infrastructure needs. Additionally, Russo played a crucial role in hiring district superintendents and other administrative personnel, demonstrating her commitment to ensuring the district's leadership is equipped to meet the needs of students and staff.

During the April 2 meeting, Russo’s fellow trustees thanked her for more than a decade of committed service to the district, and wished her the best. Rich Galati, a fellow trustee who has served with Russo for years, praised her tireless efforts and dedication to the community.

"Marianne is a very busy and successful attorney in private practice, but has managed to unselfishly give immeasurable hours in service to all of us," Galati said. “Her work on the board is without parallel. Her razor sharp intellect and key insight has served the community in innumerable ways, as she always advocated for our students, and for the betterment of our schools and community.”

Andrea Macari, the president of the board, also commended Russo for her invaluable contributions, acknowledging her role in setting expectations for the board's conduct and professionalism.

"Marianne, you are fierce," Macari said. "Thank you, not only for your 11 years of service, but for helping to set the expectations of this board and community."

Russo's departure comes at a pivotal time for the North Shore School District, as it grapples with the ongoing fiscal challenges from the LIPA deal and strives to maintain the quality of education amidst rising costs. While the district will miss her intellect and legal acumen, she encouraged anyone considering running for office to listen to the community.

“Get to know the people in the district and what their concerns are,” Russo said. "You can’t always address all the legal and financial concerns that people have, but at least you can understand what their vision is and what their hopes are for the district.”

With Russo’s resignation, her seat will now also be on the ballot for the May 21 election for trustee. Two other seats are also open.

Russo emphasized that while the job of being a school board trustee has not always been easy, it has always been rewarding. She added that despite the issues facing the district, she is proud to be a part of the North Shore community.

"It's really been an honor and a privilege to serve this district," Russo said. "I don't need to go to heaven. I live in Glen Head. I'm already there."