Vassallo Bids Farewell To School Board

Calling it a fun ride, outgoing South Huntington School Board member Melanie Vassallo said her goodbye's at a meeting Wednesday at Walt Whitman High School.

After three years of service, Vassallo's last day on the board will be June 30. 

In front of students, teachers, friends and colleagues she thanked the people of South Huntington for allowing her the pleasure of serving the community she said she loves.

A 1978 graduate of Walt Whitman High School and a South Huntington resident since the age of 14, Vassallo said her children are the real reason for her service. She thanked district teachers, administrators and the employees for giving her two daughters an "amazing" educational opportunity.

"I can't have asked for a better education for my daughters," Vassallo said.

School board president Jim Kaden said he was grateful for Vassallo's work.

"Many people don't appreciate the effort that has to go into being a board member, and I certainly for one do, so I wish you the best," said Kaden.

Vassallo said she respected those on the board she served with and thanked them for their efforts. "Thank you for always making me feel that my thoughts and my words are worth listening to."

"Everybody says we don't get thanked enough, but the truth is, I owe all of you thanks for that," said Vassallo, who lost her board position to Lisa Brieff in the May school board election. Kaden was reelected.

Vassallo was criticized prior to the election by the teacher's union for comments at board meetings that questioned the pay and workloads of teachers. The union endorsed Brieff.