WPCNR SCHOOL DAYS.  Board of  Education Meeting Report From Michele Schoenfeld. August 13, 2007:  Several members of the Havilands Lane neighborhood spoke about the removal of trees on the High School property, to make room for a new ball field at the regular Board of Education meeting August 6..  They faulted the district’s communication and the lack of a plan for the project.  Board members had not been aware of this project and expressed their disapproval over the loss of trees and the district’s failure to communicate with the neighbors.  They assured residents that all work has been stopped. Timothy Connors, Superintendent of Schools, indicated that he would meet with the neighbors before any further action is taken and before making a recommendation to the Board.

The Board approved a total of over $3.2 million in tax refunds to eight different property owners.  The Board was advised by counsel that the court is seeking to settle many other outstanding cases before the end of the calendar year.

Dr. Heidi McCarthy was appointed Director of Special Programs and Services for the City School District and will assume her duties at the end of this month.  She comes to White Plains from Hastings, where she was Director of Special Education Services for the last four years. Karen Kushnir was appointed Committee on Special Education Chairperson, Districtwide. She has served as teacher in the district for the last 18 years, most recently as Learning Facilitator at Mamaroneck Avenue School.

     PERSONNEL:  The Board accepted the resignation for the purpose of retirement of Dr. Michael

     Passow, Science Teacher at the Middle School-Highlands. Board Member Sheryl Brady said Dr.

     Passow has been an outstanding teacher and will be missed greatly.  Mr. Connors commented on

     Dr. Passow’s dedication to the district over the last 22 years.

            Three new Probationary teachers were appointed:  Lisette Maniatis will assume the position

     of School Psychologist at Post Road School; Lauren Royce will teach Elementary Education at

     Mamaroneck Avenue School; and Domingo Cabrera will teach Science at the High School.