Oceanside School Board celebrates retirements and tenure achievements

The Oceanside Board of Education held its regular meeting on May 7, 2025, where significant discussions centered around staff retirements, personnel recommendations, and community engagement initiatives. The meeting highlighted the contributions of several educators who will be retiring soon, marking a notable transition for the district.

Superintendent Dr. Harrington announced the upcoming retirements of Dean Martellucci, an esteemed English as a New Language teacher, and Rob Pittman, the president of the Oceanside Federation of Teachers. Both educators have made substantial impacts on the school community, with Dr. Harrington expressing gratitude for their dedication and contributions. Martellucci, known for her exceptional work at the Early Learning Center, and Pittman, recognized for his leadership and commitment to teachers, will be missed by colleagues and students alike.

Additionally, Janet Marks, a key figure in the athletic department, was acknowledged for her retirement, with plans for her to assist through the busy summer schedule. The board unanimously approved several personnel recommendations, including those for hourly employees and DACA employees, reflecting ongoing efforts to maintain a robust educational staff.

The meeting also featured discussions on the district's fundraising initiatives, which successfully raised nearly $10,000 in April for organizations such as Camp Anchor and the NASA Suffolk Autism Society. This effort, led by Miss Murray and her team, showcased the community's commitment to supporting local causes.

In other business, the board approved the 2025-2026 short-term borrowing tax anticipation notes and the summer playground program staff pay scale, ensuring financial stability and continued recreational opportunities for students.

As the meeting concluded, board members took time to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week and acknowledge the recent tenure awards granted to several educators, emphasizing the district's commitment to recognizing the hard work and dedication of its staff.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of community involvement and the impact of dedicated educators on the Oceanside school district. As the school year progresses, the board looks forward to continuing its support for both staff and students, fostering an environment of growth and achievement.