Hewlett-Woodmere Board of Education reorganizes for the new school year

At Monday’s Hewlett-Woodmere Board of Education’s organizational meeting at the Woodmere Education Center, new Trustee Daniella Simon took the oath of office and was installed as a board member for a three-year term.

The former Central Council PTA President replaced Harold Kislik who stepped down after 12 years on the BOE. Superintendent Dr. Ralph Marino Jr., and Trustee Mitchell Greebel also were sworn in.

Simon grew up in Hewlett and still lives there today with her family that includes four young children. “I grew up in the district and chose to raise my family here,” she said.

She aims to continue providing support for the children and teachers in the school district while maintaining parent involvement. Simon will serve on the Buildings and Grounds, Communications and Long-Range Transportation committees and is an alternate for the Health, Safety and Wellness, Legislative, Policy and Recreation and Athletic Facilities committees as listed on the district website. “I want to continue to raise the standard of excellence in our district,” she said.

The new school year began on July 1, and the $115.4 million budget approved in May is now in effect. Marino said that the school year ended on a positive note and summer programs are underway.

Barbara McNiff, executive director of Human Resources, addressed the mentor-training program for the 23 new teachers who attended on June 27 and building-specific training to occur in the fall. McNiff also highlighted the district’s use of online software programs that provides a larger pool of teacher applicants.

Dr. Debra Lo Verde, executive director for Special Education services, spoke about the special education summer program taking place at Hewlett Elementary School for six weeks that helps the students retain the skills they learned during the previous school year so they can hit the ground running in September.

The board’s next regular meeting will take place at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 9, also at the Woodmere Education Center.