During this historic time in our nation’s history, in a time of necessary social distancing and isolation and amidst economic uncertainty, thousands of voters took part in the annual school district election. (In fact, given the write-in balloting this year, thousands more exercised their right to vote than in typical years.)
I find this a reassuring sign of the care and shared sense of investment we share in our children’s education and this community- including and especially, during troubled times. The fact that the annual operating budget passed in this historic time is also a hopeful indicator.
I write to express gratitude to all who voted, whether for me or my opponent, as well as all who voted, whether for or against the budget. I sincerely believe that our schools, our community, and our democratic republic are best served when stakeholders are engaged and participating.
For myself, I pledge to continue to bring my care and habits of mind, as well your concerns, back to my service along with my colleagues on the Great Neck Public Schools Board of Education.
Although I am a merely a volunteer, I am gratified by my resounding victory insofar as it amplifies your voices: I hear you and will do my best to ably represent all the residents, voters and nonvoters alike, during my second term.
Lastly, during the pandemic closures, my children have taken to joking about only hearing me say, “so moved” repeatedly during the consent agenda of the board’s public sessions. After all, it is not so readily apparent what trustees say or do when the public only hears “so moved.” Today, however, I truly am “so moved.”
Thank you and be well,
Rebecca Sassouni
Great Neck
