Motion to extend superintendent's contract fails as parents and community urge board to keep leader

A motion to approve a five-year extension of the superintendent's employment agreement failed for lack of a second at the Valley Stream 24 Union Free School District board meeting on June 10, 2026. Because no one seconded the proposal, the motion did not proceed to a vote.

The board member who introduced the motion praised the district's recent academic and operational gains and said a longer contract would provide continuity for Vision 2030 initiatives. The motion's failure prompted an extended public comment period in which many parents, students and community members spoke in support of the superintendent.

Parents offered examples they said demonstrate progress under the superintendent's leadership. Thomas Dowling, identifying himself as a parent, said the district's math proficiency is "up to 72%, the highest it's been since Next Generation and Common Core Assessments began," and said students with disabilities had "nearly doubled their performance index scores in ELA and math, jumping from 42.9% to over 71," remarks he attributed to district data. Dowling also said the district had brought "back 813 special education students" to in‑district programs and cited a 30% decline in chronic absenteeism among English language learners.

"We must provide our leadership with resources, continuity, and stability," Dowling told the board, urging trustees to approve a multiyear contract.

Several other speakers echoed those themes. Aisha Darby, who identified herself as a Valley Stream parent, said the superintendent is "steady, present, and willing to listen," citing improved achievement and stronger student supports. Bina Casim said the superintendent followed through on promises—including changes to school lunch—and described him as "available and present" to families. R. Craig Watson described measurable improvement since the superintendent's arrival and said he valued the superintendent's accessibility.

Students and school leaders also spoke in support. A pair of students told the board they appreciated accessible meal options and the superintendent's willingness to read their letter and act. Dr. Robin Davson, a parent and co‑president of Brooklyn Avenue School, praised the superintendent for bringing special‑education programs closer to home.

Board members did not take a further roll-call vote on a contract extension after the failure to secure a second. The transcript records board discussion of personnel matters being moved to executive session later in the evening.

What happens next: The motion did not carry and no contract extension was approved during the meeting. Trustees later moved to return to executive session to discuss personnel and legal matters; any subsequent action on the superintendent's contract would occur in a future public meeting if a formal motion is reintroduced.