Nancy Bryan to leave after serving as president
Last week was a transition week in the Cornwall Central School District, with fourth-graders getting ready to move up to the next level.
Some days before the moving up ceremonies, the youngsters got to visit the middle school. As part of their introduction, they went on a scavenger hunt and chatted with a guidance counselor and a seventh-grader.
At the June 13 Board of Education Meeting, Supt. Terry Dade introduced each retiree, summarized their contributions to the district, and presented them with a gift.
During the school year, 17 employees ended their careers – including 3 members of the Buildings and Grounds Department, 5 administrative workers, 4 teaching assistants, 2 nurses, and 3 teachers.
Later in the Monday meeting, board members acknowledged two of their colleagues who are stepping down at the end of the month. Nina Ross leaves after serving a three-year term and Nancy Bryan says “farewell” after a stint as the board’s president.
“There are questions only Nina can address,” Brendan Carty acknowledged when it was time for board member comments.
“You’re brilliant and insightful,” he added. “And I had no idea of how funny you would be.”
Then he turned to Mrs. Bryan, who was sitting at the center of the tables that were arranged in an inverted “U.” “You were one of the first board members I met and admired,” he told her. “You were so passionate in helping kids and my first impression was just the tip of the iceberg.”
Working around the table, the members took turns sharing their opinions. Teresa Budich knew Mrs. Bryan long before they were on the school board.
She recalled an instance when her son (who was just nine at the time) forgot his lunch money.
Sensing that something was wrong, Mrs. Bryan paid for his lunch and then offered some friendly advice. “Anytime you need something let me know.”
By the time it was Larry Berger’s turn to speak, there was not much that hadn’t been said.
“You always start at the other end of the table,” he joked – explaining that there was little to add except the word “ditto.”
Mr. Berger has been on the board for 16 years in addition to serving on the BOCES board. Before concluding his remarks, he turned to the outgoing president. “Nancy,” he remarked, “you’re one of the best board members I’ve known.”
Lou Argenio, the board’s vice president, thanked the student representatives. “We appreciate hearing about the school,” he said. “Thank you for your candor.”
Mrs. Bryan also had a positive word for twelfth-graders John Germain and Caleb Sandler.
“You have been a total joy,” she said without any embarrassment.
Then, addressing the other board members, she continued. “It’s been a good journey. We didn’t agree on everything. But we always agreed to do what’s best for the district.”