South Orangetown board approves special-education director appointment, accepts teacher resignation and moves to executive session

The South Orangetown Central School District Board of Education on Sept. 17 approved a director-level appointment in the Office of Special Education and Related Services, accepted a teacher resignation and approved amended items on the consent agenda before moving into executive session.

Under the consent agenda, the board recorded the appointment of a director of special education and related services with an annual salary of $190,000, prorated, and a probationary period of three years from Oct. 20, 2025, through Oct. 19, 2028. The transcript records that the position requires the New York State School District Leader certificate. The record identifies the appointee by first name only, "Erin," and board members praised her during the brief discussion.

The board also accepted the resignation of Bogazette Santiago, listed as a full-time world languages teacher at Tappan Zee High School, effective Oct. 16, 2025.

A motion to approve the amended consent agenda categories 4 through 8 was made and the board responded "Aye," approving the items on the consent agenda as presented. Later in the meeting, the board moved to go into executive session "to discuss matters pertaining to the board of education." The transcript records the motion, a second and the board answering "Aye," indicating the motion to enter executive session was carried.

A board member who spoke during the personnel discussion said, "I've met Erin. She's been such an awesome addition ... pleasure to interview her ... the top two candidates were fantastic, but she's been really good." The transcript does not include Erin's last name, the text of any employment contract, or full financial details beyond the prorated salary amount and probationary dates.