It was an exciting evening at the district’s October Board of Education meeting, as members of the board of education were honored for their hard work and dedication to the district, and two staff members were awarded tenure.

To kick off the festivities, Rhame Avenue Principal Ayesha McArthur presented board members with gifts and showed a video of students expressing their gratitude for the board’s year-round efforts.

This recognition follows the New York State School Boards Association’s School Board Recognition Week that runs from Oct. 19-23. This allows school board members to be honored for their volunteer service, commitment and contributions to their schools and community.

Superintendent of Schools Lisa Ruiz said board members demonstrate commitment and hard work to their list of responsibilities. “School Board trustees are volunteers and they receive no pay or any type of compensation for their service,” she explained. “I know that our trustees take their responsibility and public trust very seriously, dedicating an enormous number of hours to their work both in and outside of board meetings.”

The celebrations continued as Rhame Avenue kindergarten teacher Caroline Drummy and Junior-Senior High School English teacher Thomas Canale were both granted tenure.

Superintendent Ruiz expressed how tenure is a significant step in a teacher’s life. “I know these two individuals personally. They are excellent teachers and have worked very hard,” she said. “I know they’re going to continue to work hard and provide the best education for our students. I wish them a very long and continued successful career in East Rockaway.”