Wallingford board honors late member Ray Ross and recognizes outgoing trustees

The Wallingford Board of Education opened its Dec. 22 meeting with a remembrance of Ray Ross, a longtime volunteer and eight-year board member who recently died. Chair Dr. Roscoe read a tribute describing Ross’s service to students and the community and called for a moment of silence.

Superintendent Belizzi echoed the board’s remarks, praising Ross’s advocacy for improved athletic fields, his work as a town photographer and his legacy of community service. Belizzi said the board presented Ross with a “legacy of service” award on Dec. 5 and that a copy of the book When We Ride will be placed at Sheehan High School in his memory.

The board also recognized outgoing members. Superintendent Belizzi presented a commemorative book honoring Mrs. Versace (Melanie) and announced the book will be placed in the Mark T. Sheehan High School library. Colleagues described Versace as well prepared and committed to students; several members said they expected her to continue serving the town as she joins the Town Council.

Board members paid tribute to outgoing chair Marla Puzielo for her leadership, listening skills and efforts to keep meetings collegial. In appreciation, the administration dedicated a copy of The Most Magnificent Thing to Fritz Elementary School in Puzielo’s honor. Speakers highlighted the time commitment required of board service and thanked both members for their years of work on behalf of students.

The meeting moved on after the recognitions, with no public commenters joining the public-comment period.

Next steps: the board will continue its regular schedule of meetings, including a special swearing-in and special board session on Jan. 5 and the next regular meeting on Jan. 26.