Please allow me to write a few words of praise about a group of staff members about to retire from the Levittown schools. While I don't have all the names, those I include are representative of all those who will be leaving their service to the community June 30.

Priscilla Zinser, the business education chairperson who has so much energy, a nice word to say about everyone as she taught the computer technology so vital in today's world.

Mike Ryan the witty math teacher who had the unique technique of using several colors of chalk to demonstrate the operations of solving math problems.

Ed Sobanski, the math teacher who pioneered the use of computers in boosting S.A.T. scores, served as a grade advisor and supported the foreign exchange students' efforts to learn math in English.

Ron Pfleger, a custodian who was always ready to help and never complained when faced with the results of the shenanigans of the students.

Linda Pinck, who joined the math staff as an emergency savior in midyear. She became a key in the efforts to promote computer technology over the years.

Sylvia Miller, the kind and supportive teacher assistant who worked quietly in the background.

Marilyn Marino, the tenacious attendance office go-getter who many a recalcitrant student owes a thank you for her continued efforts to get them to school, on time, in the right place and to graduate.

Mary Ellen Malloy, the reading teacher and friend to many quiet silent types who were in need of her expertise. How does one measure the success of a reading teacher?

Jim Krug, the health teacher who had every student at one time or another as they passed through health class. He playacted the parts. Friend to all and they know it.

Charlie Kemnitzer, the social studies teacher, union president and member of Wiley and the Whippoorwills. Jokester and counselor to many.

Roy Jester, the talented industrial arts and technology whiz who worked in recent years at the LMEC program. Many MacArthur students have fond memories.

Florence Itzkowitz the special education teacher aide with patience and calming effect on her students and staff members.

Elaine Hrach. Thoughtful English chairperson of a large diverse department. Successful results were the bottom line.

Lee Hahn, the social studies teacher who brought high expectations to the classroom. He wanted his students to get as involved with life as he was.

Frank Haggerty the English teacher who always supported the administration's "new idea" and his students' efforts. Advisor to the school newspaper which thrived under his tutelage.

Jeanette Gonzalez the special education teacher aide character among characters in the career development program. She has the flair for getting others laughing.

Rich Festante, the do-it-all biology teacher, yearbook advisor and many, many, other after school activities. Never worried about giving time to the district.

Tom Cestaro, the English teacher, newspaper advisor and friend to many students. His students constantly contact him by email. That feedback is priceless.

Ilene Alten the financial wizard business teacher whose students dominated the Newsday Stock Market Game many times. She turned the school store in to a gold mine. IA.com in store?

Joe Grundas the chairperson of art, techology, home economics, family living, driver's ed and auto body. I probably left out a few. He did it all.

Jim O'Gara, the insightful English teacher and librarian. Great for staff morale and great for all of his 30+ years of students.

Wade Ehlen, social studies teacher grade advisor and valued teachers' union officer.

John Allen, as the principal of DAHS he led the turnaround that has swept the school for the last decade. Appreciated by his colleagues for the support he gave to them as the changes were being made.

Senor Jose Capo Spanish teacher extraordinary. A gentleman with class. The advisor to many students and the bridge between cultures. I personally benefited from his expertise as a counselor, translator, exchange student advisor and friend.

Real human beings who deserve a heartfelt thank you. I know I appreciated their efforts. Thank you.