By MIKE RUSSO
But at the June 10 Board of Education meeting, which focused on honoring retiring staff, Roccoforte, who will retire at the end of the school year, found himself on the opposite end of that praise — as those who have looked up to him for his support and guidance over the years spoke about the positive impact Roccoforte had made on their lives.
Roccoforte, who began his career in the district as director of Technology, Curriculum and Instructional Support Services in 1992, was named Assistant Superintendent for Instruction four years ago. Those who have known
Roccoforte over the years describe him as a committed educator with a strong belief in lifelong learning, with a comedic and witty personality, and a vocabulary complicated enough to make even the English teachers' heads spin. "Having known and worked with Mike Roccoforte has been an honor," said Superintendent of Schools Dr. James Mapes. He said that Roccoforte has always focused on promoting differentiation of education, ensuring that each student gets the personalized attention they need. Even when certain students were reluctant to take advantage of such opportunities, Mapes added, Roccoforte was patient and understanding with them — an ability that Mapes said both impressed and inspired him. "We want [Roccoforte] to know that his caring spirit will be missed by us all. Thank you, Mike, for the gift of yourself that you so unselfishly bestowed upon Baldwin and its children."
School Board President Mary Jo O'Hagan cited Roccoforte's involvement in providing Internet access to all of the district's instructional areas, development of the district's Web site and overseeing three bond referendums. Though Roccoforte was well-respected for his professionalism, O'Hagan said she will also miss Roccoforte's personality. "His wit, his charm, his ability to just make everyone feel great," O'Hagan said, referencing Roccoforte's numerous appearances as Master of Ceremonies at functions such as retirement dinners. "It will be terrifically missed."
Mark Gray, principal at Milburn School, who was one of several administrators and teachers to receive tenure later in the evening, also
honored Roccoforte. When asked by Roccoforte to speak on his behalf, Gray said he sat at his computer, utterly speechless, wondering how to put someone like Roccoforte, whom he considered one of his greatest mentors, into words.
"It's a bittersweet night, getting my tenure at the same time I'm losing someone who has been an inspiration to me and such a strong mentor," Gray said. "He has taught us that to touch the lives of children, we have to hold on to the child inside of us. In order to pass on our love of learning, we have to still love to learn. As we move on without you, it certainly is with sadness to see you go, but you can be sure you've left an indelible mark on each of us. Your
fingerprints are all over this district. We are way better moving forward for having worked with you, and having learned from you."
In an emotional farewell speech, Roccoforte reflected modestly on his record of service at the district, attributing much of the district's
success to the teachers, administrators and school board whom had to approve and implement his initiatives.
"I hope I have led by example, and provided guidance and support to the community and in some small way I have had a positive effect on your life," Roccoforte said, his voice cracking with emotion. "In the end, the size of a person's accomplishment can best be measured by the size of their heart.
"I leave this position with fond memories, lasting friendships, and the belief that we did the best each and every day to make decisions which would positively impact our students. There is no career which is more noble and rewarding, and I feel blessed to have had this opportunity. It has been both an honor and a privilege to have served this district."
