STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- While most families are enjoying their summer off, members of Staten Island's District 31 Community Education Council (CEC) have been meeting to get things in shape for September in the borough's public schools.
CEC members work closely with the district superintendent; approve school zoning lines; hold hearings on the Department of Education's (DOE) capital plan for new school seats and construction, and provide input on instructional and policy issues. Members serve as a liaison with the DOE, to communicate the needs of their district.
The CEC is comprised of nine members, who must be parents of students currently enrolled in Kindergarten through eighth grade in one of Staten Island's public elementary or intermediate schools. Each of the city's 32 school districts has its own CEC; Staten Island's District 31 CEC is the only one that encompasses an entire borough.
The councils were created in 2002, under legislation approving mayoral control of the school system. They replaced the district school boards. Parents serve two-year terms on the CEC, with elections every two years. Current CEC members are eligible to seek re-election, as long as they have at least one child still enrolled in elementary or intermediate school.
Here's a thumbnail guide to who's who on the Staten Island CEC:
- Frank Squiccirini
- Michael Reilly
- LaTonja McMillan
- Irene Maiello
- Laura Timoney
- Jennifer Arlen
- Kara Buzga
- Gina Kokolis
- Ganimete Kastrati
- Mary Almonte
- Antoinette Williams
- Jenna Zerino
The CEC meets monthly, on the first Monday of the month, at the Petrides School, Sunnyside. You can learn more about the council through its website, or by calling 718-420-5746.