By Karenlyn Barone
A 1966 Lynbrook High School graduate, Metkiff was a scholar-athlete. A standout in basketball, he was not only named All-County and All-Island, but he also received the prestigious Sid Covert Award, given to the best basketball player on the South Shore, when he played forward for the Owls.
Metkiff attended the University of Rhode Island on a full basketball scholarship and, upon graduation in 1971, returned to Lynbrook High School as a business teacher. He then moved to an administrative position, and in 1991 he was named superintendent of schools. Those who have worked with him will tell you that Metkiff has served his district with intelligence, integrity and dedication.
"We are very proud of what he did when he returned to his alma mater after graduating from college," said Katherine Fox, Lynbrook Kindergarten Center principal.
At the Nov. 12 Board of Education meeting, Don Roth approached the microphone to add his sentiment and sense of humor to Metkiff's retirement announcement. Roth has deep roots in Lynbrook, and as a life-long resident and teacher who retired from the district in 1997, he has known Metkiff most of the superintendent's life. Roth praised Metkiff's varied accomplishments, while the embarrassed superintendent squirmed in his seat. Roth and the audience savored the moment.
"I know when you retire they will probably give you some type of dinner and possibly a watch," Roth kidded Metkiff. "Give it right back, because when you retire, time means nothing. The only time you have to know is, What time do I report to Bethpage [Golf Course] and what time do I tee off?"
Roth then presented Metkiff with a sleeve of golf balls.
"Seriously, Bill has the respect of his students, his staff and the community," said Roth. "He is an outstanding guy."
Metkiff was visibly touched by all who spoke and wished him well. "This is very difficult for me," he said. "It has been my honor and my privilege to be superintendent of schools. Lynbrook is a great place because of everyone's efforts."
His decision to retire at the relatively young age of 55 serves his purpose well. "I want time," Metkiff said candidly. "I love what I'm doing, but I want time to enjoy life, now."
He joked that he doesn't know what he will do with his new-found free time, but he already has some great ideas. Besides golf, he said, he plans to do charity work, read some great books and travel. He just celebrated his 30th wedding anniversary with his wife, Fran, whom he met while they were both teachers in the Lynbrook High School Business Department. Metkiff is also a dedicated father to his three grown children. His oldest daughter is an English teacher and his two sons are in college.
"I basically want to wake up and see what it's like to do whatever I want to do," said Metkiff.
He addressed those gathered at the meeting with humility and thankfulness, and made one final request. "Just let me fade away into the sunset, because otherwise I will get very emotional, and I don't want to do that," he said. The standing ovation that followed let the superintendent know that the people of Lynbrook would never let him fade away.
