By KEITH GRANT
Principal of Long Beach Middle School since 1993, Mr. Brand has served the district for decades, wearing several hats along the way. He was a math teacher, dean and vice principal for the middle school before serving as principal of Long Beach High School from 1990-93. The retirement was approved by the Board of Education at its Nov. 28 meeting.
"He rose up through the ranks here," said Superintendent of Schools Ron Friedman. "He's been very well loved by the community. He has always been an advocate for the children, and a real gentleman." Board member Gina Guma noted that Mr. Brand had been her math teacher, and said he will be deeply missed by the district. Joyce Dileo, chairperson of the middle school's social studies department, echoed that sentiment.
"I've worked with him since I came to this building," she said. "He's going to be sorely missed here. He was always so supportive of the staff, the students, and parents. I know no one's irreplaceable, but he's going to be a real hard act to follow."
Dr. Friedman praised Mr. Brand for giving the district ample notice to conduct the search for his successor. The superintendent said the district would begin advertising for the position immediately, with the aim of initiating interviews during the winter. Dr. Friedman said he hopes to have a new principal selected as early as April.
Another substantial change to take place, both at the high school and middle school, was discussed at the meeting, the transition to a nine-period school day for 2001-02. A committee of educators is currently devising a plan.
"We're working very strongly on that," Dr. Friedman noted. Creation of the additional period is in response to the more stringent state academic mandates being phased in, which ultimately will require students to pass five Regents exams in order to graduate. The extra period will afford students time for either advanced courses or remedial work.
"This is basically so we can meet the template of the new standards," Dr. Friedman said. "Some kids need more than eight [periods]. A nine-period day allows us the flexibility to offer classes for those who need them, and allow for advanced courses."
On the likely need for hiring additional staff members to each school for the extra periods, and questions about the district's ability to pay for it, Dr. Friedman said, "The answer is yes, we will. We worked hard on the budget last year. We'll just tighten our belts in areas where it's not very critical."
Less critical may be the need for more computers, thanks to a donation by trustee Roy Lester that includes 10 processors. Mr. Lester also donated two electric typewriters, a LaserJet printer, and a copier.
The superintendent also announced several Empire State Scholastic Press Association awards earned by the high school's literary magazine, Fragments. The magazine was presented with a silver medal for Best Literary Magazine, while Jennifer Lebowitz earned an individual silver medal for Best Non-fiction Writing. Lauren Gengo earned an honorable mention for non-fiction writing, while Venessa Rizza, Ms. Lebowitz, and Jackie Slattery were awarded honorable mention awards for their poetry.
