Barbara Berkowitz will head the Great Neck Public Schools Board of Education once again, as she was elected and sworn in for her second term as president at the July 2, board of education's reorganization meeting. Newly elected Trustee Fran Langsner was elected and sworn in for her first term as board vice president.

Also at this first board meeting for the upcoming 2007-2008 school year Susan Miner Healy was sworn in as a board of education trustee. She had been appointed in June, to replace Judi Bosworth, a longtime school board member who just stepped down as she begins a run for the county legislature.

Ms. Healy, a mother of five and currently a parent in the school district, has consistently sat on PTA boards and committees. "Susan is a deeply committed member of each board," Ms. Berkowitz stated, adding, "She is a concerned parent who has really worked tirelessly for the benefit of the schools." Ms. Berkowitz also noted that Ms. Healy "shares a lot of the same philosophy regarding schools and children."

And the board president emphasized that the new trustee "always has new ideas ... and as our superintendent (Ron Friedman) always says, you always must move ahead and try to make things even better." Ms. Berkowitz assured Ms. Healy that "we all support you and we count on your support for the board."

Ms. Langsner noted that Ms. Healy would "continue the Great Neck legacy, the devotion to excellence in the Great Neck Public Schools." And Trustee Don Ashkenase said that Ms. Healy's "thinking and philosophy" are indeed aligned with the school board members." Mr. Ashkenase went on to say that the board members have their own opinions, but that they "share larger values."

As Ms. Berkowitz was nominated again for president, Trustee Larry Gross praised her "intelligence and energy level," and credited much of the board's success to Ms. Berkowitz. "She's a leader and our representative to the community," Mr. Gross stated.

Ms. Langsner noted her colleague's thoughtfulness and how she always solves each problem "in the best interest of all involved." Ms. Healy spoke of Ms. Berkowitz's "class and dignity."

As Ms. Langsner was elected vice president, Mr. Ashkenase praised the way she has taken over leadership roles, both in the past and today. Ms. Berkowitz said that her new vice president is "so valuable, so fair, seeing all sides of every issue."

Ms. Langsner spoke about how the each member of the board helps bring about their success.

When Superintendent Ron Friedman was sworn in for another year, he was praised by one and all, with Ms. Berkowitz speaking of his educational and corporate leadership, how he does both "perfectly ... a tireless worker." She also noted how well Dr. Friedman has "bridged the gap with other community leaders," moving "effortlessly and seamlessly" into his job a few years ago. Mr. Ashkenase echoed those words, calling it a "flawless transition," while Mr. Gross said the entire community values Dr. Friedman's work. "He really listens to all issues," Ms. Langsner added.

Dr. Friedman, in turn praised the board of education, and insisted "this is a team effort." And Dr. Friedman also stated that, over the last three years, he and the board have "assembled great management teams."

The GNPS board of education is not scheduled to meet again for a public action meeting until Monday, Sept. 10, 8:30 p.m., at the South High library.