Service group honors District 24 schools chief

District 24 Superintendent Dr. Edward Fale was recognized by the Lynbrook/East Rockaway Rotary Club last Sunday for his service to the youth of the community. The Rotary Club presented its annual John Rosetti Serving Above Self awards at a luncheon at Villa Umberto’s in Elmont.

Fale, in his 12th year leading the district, praised the organization which recognized him. “This was a wonderful event,” Fale said. “To be recognized for service by the Rotary, which is a service organization, is very, very special and meaningful.”

Fale was nominated for the award by Diana Pirrone, the former assistant superintendent of the district who passed away in July. He was actually supposed to receive the award in May 2008, but was so busy with Brooklyn Avenue School’s 100th anniversary celebration that he had to wait for the next round of awards.

Pirrone was a past president of the Lynbrook/East Rockaway Club and Fale said she was instrumental in expanding the partnership between the service organization and District 24. Over the years, the Rotary Club has provided guest speakers for parents on cyber-bullying and Internet security, awarded the district grants, and has been a strong supporter of the conflict resolution program. “We appreciate all that they do for us,” Fale said. “Education today really extends out beyond the schools. It does take a whole village to raise a child.”

He was presented with the award by Lynbrook Police detective and Rotary Club member Fred Fusswinkel. Fale said that he was touched by the paragraph Pirrone had written about him back when he was nominated, and read aloud at the awards presentation by Fusswinkel.

Although District 24 is based in Valley Stream, it does take in the Yorkshire area of Lynbrook — the triangle between Sunrise Highway, Piccadilly Downs and Peninsula Boulevard. Students in that neighborhood attend the William L. Buck School on Horton Avenue. “District 24 is a wonderful place to work,” Fale said. “It is a community that is very supportive of education and people who want the best for their children.”

This other recipients were U. S. Naval Commander Master Chief Evelyn Banks, being honored for distinguished service; Dawn McGrath, a volunteer with Peninsula Counseling Center, for her service to seniors; Mike Schindler, of Lynbrook, for community service; and Al Barbarino, also of Lynbrook, for lifetime achievement.

Fale was modest about receiving the award. “I’m not the type of person who expects any recognition like this,” he said. “It’s not my style at all but I am honored that I was considered with the four others.”

Mary Malloy contributed to this story.