Thursday, October 1, 2026
Kim Wheeler has retired from the Valley Stream District 24 Board of Education, leaving behind not just a seat at the table but a legacy built on community and care.
“After nine years of unwavering service, Trustee Wheeler leaves behind a legacy of integrity, compassion, and tireless dedication to our students, staff, and community,” Melissa Herrera, who served as board vice president last year and was elected president on July 1, wrote in a statement.
For nearly a decade, Wheeler has been a familiar and reliable presence in the district, known for her thoughtful leadership and deep connection to the families she served, according to her colleagues. A longtime Valley Stream resident and a proud parent of district graduates, James, 22 and Mikayla, 19, she brought both personal and professional experience to her role, always with students’ best interests at heart.
“I was always a large part of my children’s school careers, whether it was class parent, a trip chaperone, elementary PTA or South’s Parents Club,” Wheeler wrote in an email to the Herald. “This brought me such joy, to not only see my child’s smile, but bring a smile to other children. It showed me just how my small acts could make a child feel. So, I decided to put myself on the ballot for District 24 Trustee and continue the focus on how to make every child feel special.”
Over the years, she volunteered in classrooms, served on PTA boards, chaired the Sixth-Grade Parents Club and pitched in at countless school events. She was the kind of person who always showed up, whether it was to support a budget, a bake sale or a child in need. Her dedication and reliable presence earned her not only admiration and respect but the friendship of her fellow board members.
“Being a Trustee allowed me to provide a fresh perspective to the District by being a current parent and understanding students’ direct needs and what my community was looking for,” Wheeler wrote. “Once you’re elected as a Trustee, your goals become a group effort rather than a solo one. You become one of seven, all working together with a shared purpose: to provide the best educational experiences for all children.”
Throughout her tenure, she championed the return of Outdoor Education; expanded Spanish instruction; enhanced the district’s music program; helped launch an 8:1:2 class, with eight students, one special education teacher and two teaching assistants or paraprofessionals; and remained committed to smart fiscal policy. Wheeler, who works in specialty leasing at Kimco Realty Corp., brought a practical perspective to board discussions.
“It’s really tough for me to see Kim leave the Board of Education,” Armando Hernandez, who served as president last year and will continue as a trustee in the upcoming school year, wrote in a statement. “More than just a colleague, she has been a true friend to me, and honestly, one of the most reliable and effective trustees I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with.”
As she steps away from her official duties, Wheeler passes the responsibility to Annette Matthew, a fellow district parent and Brooklyn Avenue PTA member. Matthew was sworn in at the board reorganization meeting on July 1.
“It has truly been an honor and pleasure to serve the families and community of District 24,” Wheeler wrote. “Congratulations to Annette and I’m wishing her success in the continued work of the District’s Mission.”
Although Wheeler won’t be at the board table anymore, she will continue to be remembered and respected because of all the decisions she helped shape, the programs she supported and the countless lives she positively impacted.
For more information about District 24 and the upcoming school year, visit valleystreamschooldistrict24.org.
