PRESS RELEASE

IAC Welcomes Superintendent of Schools

Dr. Freeley, prior to her appointment last August was superintendent of Schools in Carle Place. She told members of her appreciation to the Glen Cove community for the warm reception she has received. Utilizing a video screen Dr. Freeley touched on all segments of the school district pointing out some of her new policies which she believes will compliment those in place. She spoke proudly of the district's outstanding programs and many outstanding students including one young lady of foreign birth, whose outstanding academic and athletic achievement has her heading straight to the ivy leagues. She stated candidly the school district could shine brighter and she wished to be a motivating figure towards that goal.

Member agencies listened as Dr. Freeley enthusiastically pointed out some of the extraordinary people who are involved in the district. In particular she spoke of the exemplary arts and music offerings. No less than 110 students are engaged in the school's marching band, which she added was led by a female teacher. Another example; more than 100 youngsters are involved in the annual school musical "Hello Dolly." And, more recently youngsters from the math and science program became involved in a Robotics competition that had them competing with other school districts on Long Island.

Some of the problematic matters were also addressed by Dr. Freeley including the strict observance of the eligibility for athletic involvement. While she recognizes the difficulty for youngsters to accept these restraints, she has found that parents agree with her that an education and a high school diploma far outweigh the pleasures of athletic involvement. She discussed her "no tolerance rules" regarding street language, violence, and other negative behaviors, adding that during her short period of time at the district she already felt a positive climate of change.

Dr. Freeley also discussed the new Regents High School diploma program being instituted this year. She sees greater difficulty for some students to receive their high school diploma based on the new Regent requirements. Previously there were two types of high school diplomas, a Regents and a district diploma. With this in mind, she foresees remedial work for some students in order for them to pass the Regents. She closed her talk with a request for the community, especially parents, to become involved with the school district and offered her time and energy to any group who would be interested in an update on the school district and to hear of the new policies that are in place.

Dr. Vogrin thanked Dr. Freeley and articulated the memberships recognition of the vital role of the school district in the community and the repercussions the educational system has on all aspects of a community's quality of life. Committee reports were heard, in particular, Dr. Susan P. Moor, vice president of IAC and chair its communication committee, reported on the March 7th evening meeting with Mayor Suozzi regarding the waterfront project Seaport Center. The meeting covered several items including widening the Creek and cleaning up the pollution. Bids for the development of Seaport Center have been sent out and plans call for a hotel and conference center, restaurants and retail stores, a boat slip and cultural activities. A four-color brochure of the project was circulated. She also reported that ferry service to NYC will start shortly.

Juan Castro, executive director of Glen Cove Youth Board and the person in charge of the IAC website reported on its status. He also reported on the status of the Nassau County IAC grant. The meeting concluded with a visual report of the Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce's website from Marie Coyle, CFP and president of the Chamber of Commerce. Coyle explained the various opportunities for businesses and organizations to be listed on the website and how residents can access the site for an overview of the city, its activities and services.

The IAC with 48 member agencies was established in 1971. The primary mission is to enhance the delivery of human services through collaboration and communication, and to provide mutual support among community agencies through sharing and networking. Member agencies are encouraged to have a representative attend the monthly meetings.