CALLICOON, NY — On October 6, the Sullivan County School Boards Association (SCSBA) held its annual dinner meeting at the Villa Roma. The SCSBA recognized outstanding educators, friends of education, district employees and retiring members of the Board of Education. 

The event was attended by school board members, superintendents, administrators, teachers, district staff and family members of the honorees.

The evening began with a reception, followed by opening remarks from Wendy Galligan-Weiner, SCSBA president.

The focus of the night was on recognizing those who have made a lasting impact on education in Sullivan County. Galligan-Weiner paid tribute to the school board members who completed their service in June: Carol Park and Carol Bliefernich from Sullivan BOCES, Nancie Davis from Eldred CSD, Arlene Hussey from Fallsburg CSD, Jennifer Holmes and Adrianna Mayson Greco from Monticello CSD, and Timothy Dymond from Tri-Valley CSD. “Their dedication and years of service have made a positive difference in the schools and communities they served,” a BOCES spokesperson said.

The association also recognized eight individuals who influenced students and colleagues “through their commitment and excellence.” The following honorees received the Outstanding Educator Award: 

Michelle Gallo, guidance counselor, Eldred CSD

Peter Dworetsky, math content area coordinator, Fallsburg CSD

Edward Lare, high school teacher, Liberty CSD

Ryan Jasper, physical education teacher/coach, Monticello CSD

Tyler Emory, math teacher, Roscoe CSD

Darryl Emmett, construction technology instructor, Career & Technical Education at Sullivan BOCES

Jason Clark, science teacher, Sullivan West CSD

Keri Smith, teacher, Tri-Valley CSD

In addition, SCSBA presented five individuals with the Outstanding Friends to Education Award, which honors those who have made significant contributions to promoting and supporting education in Sullivan County.

The recipients are:

Lou Monteleone, an active community member of Eldred CSD, was recognized for his extraordinary commitment to the community and, in particular, to fostering a positive and supportive environment for our students and staff.

Dr. Robert Dufour, district superintendent, Sullivan BOCES, was commended by Fallsburg CSD for his unwavering support and leadership to all districts in Sullivan County.

Dr. Heather Fassell, active community member of Monticello CSD, received the award for her countless contributions to the students and staff of Monticello.

Ed Park, retired board member from Roscoe CSD, was honored for his many years of service to the district and school community.

Ron Littke, an active community member of Sullivan West CSD, was recognized for introducing students to the art of filmmaking and bringing the arts into the lives of students.

Each of these individuals is a dedicated member of their school community and is always willing to lend their time and talents to support education.

This year’s ceremony also recognized three individuals as Outstanding District Employees. Liberty CSD honored Mary Chanov, who “consistently demonstrates an unwavering commitment to the success and well-being of students, staff and the entire school community,” the district said.

The Rockland CSD recognized Nikki Rasnick, “whose contributions extend beyond her role in the buildings and grounds department,” the district said. “She also co-coordinates the Adopt-a-Plant Program and the School Playground Garden Project, helping to create a more engaging and welcoming school environment.”

The Tri-Valley CSD honored Heather Bonnell, administrative assistant, “for the positive impact she has made within the district and her efforts that connect the school and its community,” the district said.

The SCSBA congratulated all the honorees.