School Board Names New President, Welcomes New Faculty and Celebrates Tenure Milestones for 22 Educators
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- Written by: Wendy MacMillan
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Superintendent Drew Patrick and Ass't Superintendent Meghan TroyAt a special Board of Education succession meeting followed by its only regular meeting in May, the Scarsdale school community gathered to appoint new board leadership, welcome incoming faculty and administrators and celebrate the achievements of educators across the district, culminating in the conferral of tenure on 22 faculty members and administrators.
To start the succession meeting, interim Board President Colleen Brown, made a nomination for Suzie Hahn to serve as President of the Board of Education through the July 15, 2026 organizational meeting. In her remarks supporting the nomination, Brown referenced the importance of stability, continuity and unity during the final months of the school year and noted the need to maintain focus on ongoing district priorities, including the recently developed budget and bond proposal designed to support student learning, growth and well-being.
“After thoughtful reflection, I believe this moment calls for an approach grounded in stability, unity and what is best for our students and our community,” Brown stated. She went on to praise Hahn for her prior service as board president, and her experience, institutional knowledge and collaborative leadership style. “She understands the responsibilities of the role, appreciates the sensitivity of this moment and has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to our students, staff and community.”
Following a unanimous vote, Hahn was officially elected president of the Board of Education effective May 11, 2026 through the board’s organizational meeting in July.
After taking her oath, Hahn shared: “Recent events have left all of us navigating a very challenging and emotional period. We are confronting serious issues that require not only thoughtful leadership, but also compassion, reflection, and a shared commitment to moving forward together. At the same time, and this happens in one week from tomorrow, the community will be voting on an annual budget and bond referendum, the outcomes of which will have a long-standing impact on the educational needs and well-being of every student in our district.
Over the next two months, my goal will be to help ensure that this Board continues to operate thoughtfully, transparently, and steadily during this transition period. I believe strongly in the importance of maintaining continuity while also preserving the opportunity for the full Board to engage in a deliberate and comprehensive leadership process and election for the 2026-2027 school year in July.
Most importantly, I want our community to know that this Board remains fully committed to the work ahead. While there are difficult conversations and moments in front of us, we will approach them with seriousness, integrity, and care for our students, this district, and every member of our community.
Thank you again for your trust and confidence. I look forward to continuing this work together.”
The evening also featured the introduction of several newly appointed faculty members and administrators who will join the district for the upcoming school year.
Among those welcomed was Katharine Beck, who will serve as the next Director of Counseling at Scarsdale High School. Beck holds degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University, Seton Hall University and Union College and currently serves as Director of College and Postsecondary Counseling at a New York City high school. Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources, Dr. Meghan Troy praised her leadership in the counseling field, as well as her empathy and strong advocacy for students.
Scarsdale alumna Maggie Donovan was introduced as a new English teacher at Scarsdale High School. Donovan, who earned degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University and Boston College, currently teaches in the Bronx. Troy noted her familiarity with the district and her passion for immersive learning experiences.
Sophia Esteves was welcomed as a new special education teacher at Scarsdale Middle School. A graduate of Manhattanville University and Binghamton University, Esteves has already spent five years working within the Scarsdale schools as both a lead replacement teacher and teacher aide.
The district also introduced Brian Galderisi as a new art teacher at Scarsdale High School. Galderisi, an accomplished artist and educator with degrees from Yale University School of Art, Hunter College and Montserrat College of Art, currently teaches in Dobbs Ferry. Troy described him as a strong role model who values inclusive learning environments.
Brad Magnusson, already a familiar presence at Scarsdale Middle School, was appointed as a probationary special education teacher. Magnusson recently earned his doctorate in educational leadership and was recognized for quickly earning the respect of colleagues, families and students through his dedication to learning and growth.
Jason Weinstein was introduced as a new elementary instrumental band teacher. Currently teaching in New Jersey, Weinstein was praised for bringing a joyful and contagious energy to music education.
District leaders also announced that Scarsdale Middle School science teacher and department chair Dr. Christy Brown will become the school’s next assistant principal.
Although unable to attend the meeting, Brown is expected to be formally welcomed at the board’s June meeting.
Tenure Ceremony
Following the introductions, the Board transitioned into its annual tenure recognition ceremony, but first took an opportunity to highlight School Principals Day, Teacher Appreciation Week and National School Nurse Week and took a moment to recognize teachers, nurses, principals, assistant principals and the many staff members who support students throughout the district each day.
“While Scarsdale is a community that holds high expectations, it is also one that deeply appreciates and respects the work of our educators,” Dr. Drew Patrick said. Special thanks were also extended to the PTAs throughout the district for their efforts in recognizing faculty and staff during Teacher Appreciation Week.
Educators were commended for fostering collaborative, future-oriented school cultures that emphasize student well-being, belonging and resilience while supporting the development of the “whole child.”
The centerpiece of the evening was the conferral of tenure to 22 educators and administrators, including 18 teachers and four building and district leaders. Dr. Meghan Troy described tenure as a major professional milestone earned only after a rigorous probationary process involving classroom observations, mentoring, evaluations, portfolio reviews and annual administrative panels.
Troy went on to describe the tenure process as “thoughtful, intentional and collaborative,” noting that it reflects Scarsdale’s commitment to professional growth and instructional excellence. “All of you have added something unique and special to our district,” Troy said.
Throughout the joyous ceremony, principals and district leaders introduced each tenure candidate individually, sharing stories about their leadership, creativity, compassion and impact on students.
At Edgewood School, Assistant Principal Lauren Drapek was recognized for providing “caring and consistent leadership” through multiple administrative transitions, while special education teachers Elise Koski and Allison Lerner were praised for their expertise, positivity and dedication to students.Twin Sisters Lisa and Lauren Pomerantz at the Tenure Ceremony
Greenacres Elementary School honored special education teacher Kristen Mateja for creating joyful and inclusive learning experiences while fostering school spirit and community engagement.
At Heathcote School, educators Jennifer Duncan, Mary Lattin and Terrie Bentley were celebrated for their creativity, adaptability and ability to inspire students through science, inclusive classroom communities and the arts.
Scarsdale Middle School Principal Chris Coughlin introduced what he called the “stellar six,” recognizing educators Kyle Davidson, Frankie Hughes, Jessica Janicola, Anne Marie Scalisi, Stephanie Schettini and Rebecca Streeter for creating meaningful connections with students and cultivating engaging learning environments.
At Scarsdale High School, Principal Ken Bonamo honored five faculty members for their leadership and dedication. Chemistry teacher Kevin Anton was recognized for creating a classroom culture of curiosity and inclusion, while computer science teacher Jigar Jadav was praised for inspiring innovation through coursework, mentorship and leadership of the school’s AI Club.
Learning Resource Center teacher Tim Leddy was acknowledged for his collaborative support of students across subjects, while social worker Lauren Pomerantz was commended for her advocacy for student mental health and wellness. Dean Amanda Rios-Thomas was recognized for her compassion and student-centered leadership.
District administrators were also honored. Math Coordinator Carrie Orgera was praised for advancing equitable and student-centered mathematics instruction districtwide. Director of Learning, Innovation and Technology Jeannie Crowley was recognized for her thoughtful leadership in educational technology, while Assistant
Also receiving tenure were Superintendent for Business Andrew Lennon who was commended for overseeing major district initiatives, including the district’s $101.7 million capital bond project.
Meghan Troy herself was recognized for her leadership and commitment to excellence, student well-being and justice throughout her tenure as Assistant Superintendent.
As part of the ceremony, each tenure recipient received a commemorative candle bearing the message: “May you be proud of the work you do, the person you are, and the difference you make.”
Board President Suzie Hahn closed the evening by thanking educators for their dedication and service to students and schools. “Teachers are true heroes with the remarkable ability to inspire, nurture growth and guide students toward success with knowledge, compassion and unwavering dedication,” Hahn said.
Following a unanimous vote by the Board of Education, tenure was officially conferred upon all 22 candidates to applause from colleagues, family members and community members gathered for the celebration.
The meeting concluded with congratulations to the newly tenured faculty and administrators, recognition of the district’s newest hires and acknowledgment of the lasting impact educators continue to make throughout the Scarsdale school community.
Voters Deserve Transparent and Data-Driven Information
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- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
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(The following letter was written by Rachana Singh)
To the Editor:
In the lead-up to a public vote with significant financial implications for our community, the quality and integrity of information provided to residents is essential.
I am writing in my personal capacity as a Scarsdale resident, parent, and community member. I also serve as a PTC Budget Study Committee Co-Chair, which has given me familiarity with the district’s budget and bond presentations; however, this letter reflects my individual views.
I am concerned about the recent “Vote Yes” flyer circulated by the Scarsdale Middle School PTA and the Scarsdale Parent-Teacher Council. The flyer presents a series of specific predictions about the consequences of a “No” vote — including increased class sizes, further staff reductions, elimination of modified sports and enrichment programs, amongst other claims.
While the district has published enrollment projections in a demographer’s report, there has not been a detailed public scenario-based analysis or modeling that quantifies these specific outcomes using staffing ratios, program funding levels, or alternative budget scenarios.
In the absence of such transparent modeling, these strongly framed “probable consequences” risk being perceived more as advocacy than balanced information — particularly when distributed by trusted parent organizations ahead of a public referendum.
PTAs and the PTC play valuable roles in our community, and with that influence comes a responsibility to ground communications in clear, verifiable district sources. Including direct links to the relevant budget documents, bond scope, enrollment forecasts, demographer’s report, and supporting analyses would better empower residents to draw their own conclusions.
This need for clarity is especially important this year, as Scarsdale taxpayers face multiple major financial decisions including a village bond and a village budget that exceeds the tax cap. All voters, including those without children in the schools, deserve clear data on the school budget, the proposed school bond, cumulative tax impacts, long-term debt, and overall sustainability.
This letter is not intended to support or oppose the budget or bond. It is simply a call to ensure that residents have access to complete and well-supported information before casting their ballots on May 19th.
I strongly encourage all Scarsdale residents to review the district’s official school budget and bond materials including the tax impact calculator directly on the Scarsdale School District website. Examine the assumptions, projections, and project details, and conduct your own due diligence on these important decisions.
Sincerely,
Rachana Singh
A Musical Spring Celebration at Westchester Reform Temple
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- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
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The voices of cantors, rabbis and friends rang out at Westchester Reform Temple on April 30, 2026 to celebrate the synagogue and their “musical DNA.”
The 2026 spring celebration marked the release of “WRT Sings,” a recording of 21 songs that enrich the observance of Shabbat and holidays. The album includes the voices of clergy, interns, the choir and instrumentalists who contribute to services each week at the synagogue.
The evening began with cocktails and a buffet dinner, followed by the performance of a selection of songs from the album. On the bima and pictured above were Cantor Amanda Kleinman, Cantorial Intern Phillip Fisherman, Cantor Isaac Sonett-Assor, Cantor Daniel Mendelson, Rabbi Jonathan Blake, Kelly McCormick, Rabbi Alissa Platcow and Rabbi Leah Citrin.
They performed several tracks including Chazak, Hashkiveinu, T’filat Ha-derech and ended with Bob Dylan’s Forever Young that had the whole room swaying and wishing for more.
Gala Co-Chairs Helene Gray and Samantah Reemer
Spring celebration co-chairs Helene Gray and Samantha Reemer welcomed everyone saying, “community means so much to so many of us.”
Director of Communications Danielle Feigenbam said, “Each year the Spring Celebration is an opportunity to celebrate and support our extraordinary WRT community. This annual event is a wonderful way to honor our shared values, connect with fellow members, and ensure a vibrant future for our congregation.”
Beth and Jeff Gelles
Photo credit: Portrait Modes Photography
Sixth Grader Steals the Show
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- Written by: Bill Doescher
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Have you ever been to a musical concert when a sixth grade soprano soloist twice stole the show from, as usual, a most sophisticated adult singing group and, also as usual, an outstanding professional orchestra to accompany?
I have and I loved it. The packed audience did, too.
All of it, indeed, beginning to end, including the singing of the National Anthem with the audience at the end.
It happened last Sunday afternoon at the final concert for the New Choral Society’s (NCS) 2025-2026 season in the sanctuary of the Hitchcock Presbyterian Church on Greenacres Avenue in Scarsdale. NCS was celebrating America250 with a concert of American composers, when Raphael Francis LaSalle, 11, the youth soprano soloist, smiling as he sang, and a sixth grader at the Seeley Place School in Edgemont, following in his mother’s and sister’s footsteps, and receiving three rounds of applause for his singing debut. He sang his part on two occasions in the second movement of Leonard Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms.
Raphael, with his sister Eleanora, used to hand out the flowers to the NCS soloists after their performances at the concerts. Now, Raphael is on the stage himself, not afraid, poised and professionally singing near Dr. John T. King, the Artistic Director and Conductor of NCS. It all just seemed so natural just like it was supposed to be. So wonderful it brought tears to my eyes.
A star indeed was born last Sunday afternoon. And believe it or not, the youngster, sitting calmly in the front pew before the concert even started, said he wasn’t the least bit nervous, and wondered how his youthful soccer team was doing because he had to miss the game as goalie due to his singing debut with NCS. The youngster was also learning about priorities and doing things one at a time in life.
In the very musical LaSalle family, Mom Emera is a soprano with NCS, and has been involved with NCS since 2021. Sister Eleanora, 14, now a freshman at Edgemont High School, sang a solo with the NCS group back in May 2024. It seems as a family they do a lot of things together. The father, John, is their biggest cheerleader and always on site and serving as an usher for the big show.
Not to be outdone, NCS also had an adult in the spotlight last Sunday. It was Jessica Meyer, who has played the viola in the NCS orchestra for 25 years. The group was honored to commission and play the world premiere of her “In the Hearts of People,” based on text from Eleanor Roosevelt’s 1951 Speech on Human Rights. Like Raphael, she took her bows to the audience’s clapping appreciation. The last piece on the concert was Randall Thompson’s rousing Testament of Freedom based on text by Thomas Jefferson, with the largest brass section the group has had occasion to use in many years.
A new performer recently added to the singing group was Kyle Pfortmiller, bass. Una Tone, Violin 1, was her usual solid, entertaining and energetic performer with a couple of smiles. Dorothy Kroenlein, an original NCS performer, a soprano, was also smiling all the time, and never missed a beat. Debra Hess, an alto, was traveling again from the state of Georgia to sing with this magnificent group of singers. Last, but not least, was Erica Westcott Kelly, an alto and the Executive Director of NCS, smiling and singing with lots of gusto throughout, as well just knowing how fortunate she is to serve in two positions with NCS.
And while we are handing out bouquets, thank you, Dr. King for your constant stewardship over the years.
Letters to the Editor from Turner, Chon and Li: In Support of Erica German for BOE
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- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
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Updated April 20, 2026
(The following letters were submitted by Irena Turner, Gina Chon and Jessy Li)
Dear Scarsdale 10583,
I am writing to share my enthusiastic support of Erica German in her candidacy for the Scarsdale Board of Education. She brings the right balance of experience and skills needed to successfully fill the Board role and has proven her commitment to Scarsdale.
Erica’s dedication to the community has been demonstrated through her consistent involvement by taking on progressively more complex responsibilities within Scarsdale. More recently she has served as Scarsdale’s PTC President and formerly served as Quaker Ridge’s PTA President, to name only a few of her roles in the town.
Analytical Mindset - During her time as Scarsdale’s PTC President-Elect I had the privilege to work with Erica while I served as the PTC Budget Study Co-Chair. Erica consistently challenged us with thoughtful questions on priorities and the budget overall. She brought an analytical mindset to each use-case and encouraged us to think deeper and stay clear on student focused priorities.
Dedicated – Erica’s commitment to the community can be seen in some of these key roles she held in Scarsdale: PTC President (2025-2026), PTC President-Elect (2024-2025), QR PTA President Elect and PTA President (2022-2024), Scarsdale Schools Mental Health Restart Committee (2020), PTA Nominating Committee (2018-2019), VP of Class Parents(2016-2018), and serving on the Interview Committee for the Middle School Principal Search (2017).
Informed –Erica is a trusted and valued advisor to all who know her. She is willing to share her wealth of information that comes from her experience of raising her 4 children, ages 10, 15, 18, and 22.
In conclusion, Erica is the type of person we need on the Scarsdale Board of Education with her proven dedication to the community, analytical mindset, ability to navigate the community and proven track record of getting things done well for Scarsdale. She is trusted, informed and student focused and she knows how to always ‘be on’ with ease and genuine warmth.
Please join me in Voting ‘Yes’ for Erica German on the May 19th Board Election.
Regards,
Irena Turner
8 Spruce Lane
To the Editor:
I am writing in my personal capacity as a Scarsdale resident — not in my role as the Scarsdale Middle School PTA President — to express my wholehearted support for Erica German's candidacy for the Scarsdale Board of Education.
I had the pleasure of working alongside Erica this year — she as PTC President and I as SMS PTA President — and during that time I saw firsthand the qualities that make her exceptionally well-suited for this role.
Erica is someone who is genuinely easy to work with — a thoughtful listener who takes the time to understand different perspectives, and who brings a calm, steady leadership style that helps move conversations forward in a productive way. In meetings that could easily devolve into competing agendas, she holds space for every voice in the room before forming a view.
A defining attribute is her analytical and thoughtful approach to complex issues, such as the capital bond and budget process. She does not rush to judgment; instead, she asks probing questions, considers multiple viewpoints, and works collaboratively toward well-reasoned decisions. These are critical skills for effective board service — and they are skills Erica has demonstrated consistently, not just in theory.
What also sets her apart is the depth and breadth of her experience in this community. A Scarsdale resident for 18 years and a parent of four children — two of whom have graduated from Scarsdale High School — Erica has lived the full arc of a Scarsdale education. She knows what the early years look like and what the finish line looks like. That perspective is rare and valuable. Her volunteer roots run just as deep: she has been an active member of various PTAs since 2009, served on district-wide committees spanning special education, sustainability, technology, wellness, safety, and food services, and currently serves as President of the district-wide PTC. She has attended nearly every public Board of Education meeting over the past two years. This is not a resume built for a campaign — it is a record of someone who has shown up, year after year, because she genuinely cares.
Erica has proven that she is deeply invested in the Scarsdale community. Her commitment is evident in both her actions and her approach — she consistently prioritizes what is best for students, families, and the broader community. This is not performative or political. It is simply who she is.
I am confident that Erica German will bring integrity, insight, and a collaborative spirit to the Board of Education. I strongly encourage the community to support her candidacy.
Regards,
Gina Chon
164 Boulevard
Dear Scarsdale Community,
I am pleased to support Erica German for the Scarsdale Board of Education.
I had the opportunity to work closely with Erica during my time as President of the Edgewood PTA in 2024-2025 while she served in PTC President Elect. Through that experience, I saw firsthand her thoughtful approach, strong judgment, and deep commitment to our schools.
What stands out most is Erica’s ability to listen carefully to different perspectives and work through complex issues in a balanced and constructive way. At the same time, she is not afraid to express her views and provide clear, steady leadership when it matters.
Equally important, Erica leads with integrity and authenticity. She has earned the trust of parents, educators, and administrators through consistent engagement and a track record of meaningful contributions to the district. Her extensive hands-on involvement across the district gives her a clear and practical understanding of the issues our schools face.
Erica will be a thoughtful and effective voice for our community, and I encourage you to support her on May 19.
Sincerely,
Jessy Li
107 Potter Rd
Scarsdale, NY 10583
