By: Leslie Gonzalez
Tenure denial in process for Marion music teacher
Many Marion Street Elementary School parents are outraged by recent moves by the Lynbrook's Board of Education to deny tenure to Roy Fortunato, the school's music teacher of four years. Students spoke in support of their teacher and parents turned out in opposition to the district's decision at a March 14 meeting.
Last year, after three years of probation, district officials extended Fortunato's evaluation time by one additional year, which is described as a rare occurrence. That time, district officials explain, can no longer be extended.
School personnel issues cannot be discussed publicly, but parents who attended the March 14 meeting claimed one reason for Fortunato's tenure denial was because one or more parents had complained they did not like the way he spoke to their children.
"Our hands are tied," said Harry Leonard, Board of Education president, who explained that the board's actions were based on the recommendations of William Metkiff, superintendent of schools. "This board can only act on recommendations," he explained. "If tenure is recommended, we can reject that, but how can you turn over something that is not recommended?"
"This is the most difficult decision a superintendent has to make," he said, and explained that, after careful evaluation, his decision was based on lengthy evaluations made by Marion principal Peter Graffagnino and Juan Ros, the district's music chairman.
But many local parents and students disagree, and describe Fortunato as an excellent teacher who went "above and beyond" to help kids learn music. At the meeting, over a dozen supporters spoke highly of the music instructor, beginning with several of his students.
"He was more than just a band teacher. He was our friend," said Tim Baker, a sixth grader. "He is the best. You can't get any better than this."
"We need him at our school. Please reconsider," said Chris Dunn, another student.
Adding an emotional dimension to the reaction some have had to the district's decision, Fortunato's wife, Alexandra, died of brain cancer just six weeks ago after a lengthy illness. First diagnosed three years ago with lung cancer, she underwent treatment and was thought to be in remission until last September, when she was found to be terminally ill.
Several parents suggested that these extenuating circumstances may have stressed Fortunato. "What type of message of compassion are you teaching the children of this district?" asked Eileen Vincelli, whose two children studied with the teacher.
Parents described how, under his care, their children adopted an about-face, positive attitude about music. Each explained how his or her child developed a love for playing a musical instrument, and how some picked up playing more than just one. Others cited how, after working with Fortunato, their children received special recognition at NYSSMA, the New York State School Music Association competition.
"Teachers are paid to teach, not to love our children. This man did both," said one mother. She spoke of how Fortunato had initiated "An Eve of Jazz," and recruited other teachers to donate their time and participate. The event helped to raise about $3,000 for the school.
"Are we are wasting our time speaking here today?" asked Pam Cohen, to which Metkiff responded, "I'm willing to listen. I don't see our listening to you to be a waste of time." When asked if the district would investigate the matter further, officials responded with a firm "no," after which most walked out.
"The superintendent did not change his mind, because we see the whole picture and not just part of it," Board of Ed president Leonard said this week. "It is a long, extensive process to remove a teacher once tenured. His or her record must be clean." Marion Street representatives would not comment whether Principal Graffagnino would address upset parents.
After learning of how many spoke in his support, Fortunato responded from his Freeport home. "I'm not going to deny that I'm a stickler for homework and practice. I just want these kids to succeed." he said, addressing parents who may have complained about him. "I'm incredibly pleased that so many felt I did a good job. I thank them for their support, and it's been and honor and a pleasure to work with them."
