Lessons in Thanks

Good evening, and thank you for this opportunity to speak.

After more than three decades in education and nearly a decade here in Greenburgh, I leave with immense gratitude for the students, the teachers, the families, and the extraordinary programs we’ve built together. It has been an honor to serve in a district that is as diverse, resilient, and full of potential as this one.

What began as a decision to become a teacher became the foundation of a career that has brought me immense joy. I cherish the feeling of unlocking something for a student, watching them find their voice, or step into a challenge they didn’t think they could handle. That spark has carried through every role I’ve held, from classroom teacher to instructional coach to district leader. It has always been about helping others grow, whether they are students, educators, or communities. That joy never fades; it only deepens.

Retirement invites reflection. What I’ve found myself reflecting on most isn’t a list of accomplishments or titles, but the people, the values, and yes, the lessons.

Some lessons came in moments of great collaboration, when we centered on students, honored teacher voice, and made bold choices rooted in shared vision. Others came in more challenging seasons, where the most important leadership takeaway was simply this: what not to repeat.

Leadership, at its best, lifts others. It listens, it learns, it leads with clarity and integrity. It doesn’t silence or sideline, but instead creates space for the brilliance already within a school system to shine.

When we talk about what’s best for students, we have to also talk about how decisions are made, and by whom. There’s a difference between setting direction and guiding instruction, and honoring that difference matters.

Trustees are entrusted with governance. With ensuring fiscal health, policy oversight, and community representation. Educational leaders (principals, directors, superintendents) are trained and experienced in the complexities of teaching, learning, and school systems. The best outcomes for students happen when these roles work in respectful partnership, not in competition.

In my time here, I’ve seen what’s possible when educational leaders are allowed to lead, when their vision, expertise, and insight are given the room to grow programs and support students. I’ve also seen the cost (on morale, momentum, and mission) when that trust is withheld.

So as I close this chapter, my ask is simple: Honor the roles. Trust the expertise. Give your educational leaders the space to do the work they were trained to do.

Empower those who know our students best. Remember that lasting progress isn’t made through policy alone, it’s made through people.

To those still in the work: I see you. Keep doing what’s right, even when it’s not easy. You’ve inspired me every day. You are the heart of this district, and your impact reaches far beyond what any meeting or memo can capture. And to our students, YOU remain my “why.”

While I’m stepping away from this role, I’m not stepping away from education. I’ll continue to support schools, educators, and families from a different vantage point. The work of improving education, championing equity, and lifting up those who do the work every day is still deeply important to me. My commitment to this profession remains strong, it’s just evolving into a new chapter.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve. Thank you for the lessons. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this journey. Be sure to keep in touch.