Parents, students praise Arowettes coach during public comments at Sachem board meeting

At the May 6 Sachem Central School District Board of Education meeting, several public commenters delivered extended statements in defense of varsity Arowettes coach Christina Ganderillis, describing her impact on team culture and student development.

Megan Mancino, a district graduate and parent of two current students, said the coach "built a culture that was supportive, inclusive, respectful, and positive while still maintaining competitiveness and high expectations," and urged that "decisions involving student programs are made through fairness, professionalism, and objective evaluation, not through influence, personal agendas, and coordinated events driven by personal interest." Mancino said the program gave students confidence and a sense of belonging.

Senior Lily Brady told the board she joined the Arowettes as an eighth grader and praised Ganderillis for dedication and positive influence. Brady said Ganderillis juggled multiple roles — including work with special‑needs students and running a local studio — and credited the coach with creating "a space filled with love" and opportunities for many students to participate.

Board members listened during the public comment period. The district did not take a public vote on personnel at the meeting; following public comment and business items, the board moved into an executive session later to discuss real estate rentals and facility usage. Public speakers asked the board to weigh student experiences and the program's culture in any forthcoming decisions involving staff or coaches.