Straniere praises their contributions
in Women in History Month celebration at Richmond Town
A handful of Staten Island women educators were honored by
Assemblyman Robert Straniere (R-South Shore) last night, during his
17th annual celebration of Women in History Month.
At the Third County Courthouse in Historic Richmond Town, Straniere
gave a brief history lesson of America's education system, and
remarked, "I am proud of the education network in New York because
no state makes as great a commitment to education as the state of
New York."
Honoree Deirdre DeAngelis, principal of New Dorp High School,
confessed that teaching is not always as easy and effortless as it
seems.
"We receive our students and in four years we help them to reach
their goals and create their futures," she said. "I know that
everyone here, along with my colleagues, agrees that you have to
love what you do."
Keynote speaker Diane O'Neill McGivern, Staten Island member of the
state Board of Regents, said education has everyone's attention,
including the federal and local governments.
"Education requires more resources and expects more teachers to
produce without the funds needed," she said. "Only you, your family
and students know the depth and breadth of your contribution ...
it's wonderful to recognize you tonight."
Also honored was Eunice Kwak, director of the Excel Pre-School in
Staten Island; Laura Kump, a teacher at PS 18, West Brighton;
Marilyn Linsky, a teacher at Prall Intermediate School, West
Brighton; Patricia Lockhart, United Federation of Teacher activist
and a teacher at PS 57, Clifton; Ruth Stark, College of Staten
Island chemistry professor; Dr. Carrie Robinson, member of the
District 31 School Board, and Nancy Ramos, deputy superintendent for
District 31.
Betty Jane Maniaci, member of the Mayor's Commission on Women's
Issues, also spoke. Susan Maren and Madeline Casparie of the Staten
Island Chamber Music Players provided musical accompaniments, along
with Jenna Perez, who sang the national anthem.
