By John Nugent
Mineola Superintendent Michael Nagler has been named the 2020 New York State Superintendent of the Year by The New York State Council of School Superintendents, Mineola School Board President Christine Napolitano announced at a board of education meeting last Thursday.
Nagler, who has led the Mineola district since 2009, said he was humbled by the recognition, saying to the board members and the people in his administration team, “While my name is on it, you all have a piece of it.”
“I love this place,” he added. “Any recognition that I receive is because of the work that you do. I’m determined to see that the kids enjoy learning.”
In announcing the news, Napolitano said the district has undergone a major transformation since Nagler took the helm by creating a culture of innovation and excellence but also noted that “it hasn’t been simply for the sake of change. It has been purposeful and thoughtful.”
“We have sometimes referred to these past ten years as Mineola’s renaissance,” Napolitano said.
“We could not be more proud of you, Dr. Nagler on this tremendous achievement,” she said.
“Teamwork makes the dream work,” said Napolitano as she cited Nagler’s desire to share the praise with his staff.
Other board members lauded Nagler for his accomplishments as well.
“I have been teaching since 1980 and I have never known a leader like Mike” said Trustee Margaret Ballantyne-Mannion.
Trustee Cheryl Lampasona added, “You are a visionary and a doer.”
“The first time I spoke to you, I knew I had your undivided attention,” Trustee Patrick Talty added.
In an unrelated matter, Edward Escobar, assistant superintendent of human resources for the district, introduced Steven daSilva as a “Commended Student” for scoring in the top 2 percent in the United States of a total 1.5 million students who take the PSAT exam.
daSilva ranks fourth in his class at Mineola High School.
He has yet to make his college choice but plans to study psychology.
