Those who regularly attend the Herricks School Board meetings were not surprised by the part of the independent investigators report which stated that “the school Administrator acted professionally and properly.. Dr. Bierwirth has consistently shown his deep convictions to educate and protect all the children in this district. Not once has there ever been the slightest doubt in his sincere beliefs about educating our children. Those who looked to find an excuse for their children’s inappropriate behavior questioned his professionalism and integrity. Three weeks prior the meeting room was filled with people looking to lynch him-now when the independent report was made public, that same room was only 25 percent filled. Where were they?

All of those parents should have been in the room when Dr. Bierwirth finally was able to speak on the topic. His words told us of how deeply the accusations affected him personally and professionally. They also told us of how deep his personal and professional convictions are. I left the meeting that night thankful that such a sincere and honest man was at the helm of our schools, and that my children, and all Herricks students, are all the better because he is our Superintendent.

In addition, complements must go out to the entire Herricks School Board. Their quick and decisive actions in this matter helped to keep it all under control. They showed courage under fire and the ability to act quickly in a fair and impartial way. Jim Gounaris, Manhasset Hills