Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the Pelham School District.

Jessica DeDomenico and Sue Bratone Childs were elected Board of Education President and Vice President, respectively, at the annual reorganization meeting held Monday, July 15, 2019, reversing roles in Board leadership from this past school year.

Ms. Childs said that work and family commitments led her to the decision not to continue on as Board President, a position she held for the past school year.

“I have really enjoyed being president over the last year and I think that Jessica and I make a great team,” Ms. Childs said. “For a number of reasons, I feel that she is better suited for the role of president this year.”

Ms. DeDomenico is beginning her third year on the Board of Education after being elected in 2017. In addition to serving as the Board’s Vice President last school year, Ms. DeDomenico chaired the 21st Century and Professional Learning, Social-Emotional Wellness and Networks of Support Oversight committees and also served on the Policy, Monitoring and Governance Committee in 2018-19.

“I’m thrilled to be taking on the role of President for what I anticipate to be another exciting school year,” said Ms. DeDomenico. “We’ve already broken ground at Hutchinson, we will beginning our other bond projects throughout the district, and we will also be rolling out our strategic plan. There is a lot to look forward to in the coming year.  I’ve really enjoyed working alongside Sue for the past year, and I know we will continue to be a great team in our new leadership roles.”

At the meeting, District Clerk Millie Bonilla administered the oath of office to new Board of Education Trustee Leah Tahbaz as well as Trustees John Brice and Vincent Mazzaro, who were elected after serving last school year as appointees to vacant positions.

“I’d like to congratulate Jessica, Sue, Leah, John and Vinny on their elections,” said Dr. Cheryl Champ, Superintendent of Schools. “We’re fortunate to have a Board composed of such dedicated community members who believe so strongly in our educational system. I’d like to thank Sue for her outstanding leadership over the past year and look forward to continuing to collaborate with the Board in 2019-20 as we roll out a new Strategic Plan, continue to implement the 2018 capital improvement bond, and find ways to strengthen our educational experience for all students.”