East Meadow school board candidates react

Corey Fanelli, a 2008 graduate of W.T. Clarke High School, campaigned as a candidate who could bring the perspective of someone not far removed from the classroom. "I'm going to collect my thoughts after everything that has gone on [during the] heavy campaigning the last few days," he said, "and come to terms with the fact that I was just sworn in and kind of get a grip on everything because I'm very elated at this point."
   
Fanelli's term began immediately because he is filling the position vacated by Diana DeVito last June. Joseph Parisi, who was appointed in July, temporarily filled that seat, but decided to run for a three-year term.
   
Fanelli didn't have much time to celebrate with friends and family because his new job was scheduled to begin on Thursday night at the board's Communications meeting.

  
"At this point, I'm ready to learn," he said. "Obviously this is my first time on the board, so I want to go in and see what it's about and pick up things from them and ask questions."
   
Instead of running for re-election to his three-year seat, Steven Jacobs vied for a one-year term. He will remain on the board until his term expires on June 30. He said he enjoyed serving on the board and seeing the achievements of students, staff, administrators and board members. He praised some top administrators who were hired during his term.
   
"I think this is a great district," Jacobs said. "It has been my privilege to serve, and I will do what I can to continue to help if anyone wants to benefit from my experience and knowledge. I wish the winners, including Mr. Fanelli, the best of luck."
   
With his victory, Jeffrey Rosenking adds the school board to his long list of service to the community. Among other things, Rosenking is involved with PTA and volunteers for the Civilian Air Patrol and Eagle Scouts. "I'm very excited, and looking forward to taking part in board activities and making a difference," he said.
   
Abby Rothschild-Kaplan, a former PTA president, served on the school board for three years. Her term expires on June 30. 
   
Though he had to sweat out the final count of absentee ballots, Joseph Danenza earned a one-year term. "It was a nail-biter," he said. "Mr. Kushner certainly had tons of experience and would have made a good board candidate as well."
   
Danenza, who fills the seat vacated by Al Semonella in October, was sworn in to a one-year term on Tuesday night. Though he acknowledged the uncertain fiscal situation for East Meadow and other school districts, Danenza said he would still like to explore several initiatives, including the possibility of a full-day kindergarten. Like Fanelli, Danenza was set to take part in his first board meeting on Thursday night.
  
"I want to look at a lot of things I talked about," Danenza said. "I'm looking forward to it, I really am."
   
Robert Kushner, who served on the board for 18 years between 1978 and 1998, said he would continue to attend board meetings. "Close, but no cigar," he said. "It was worth a try. I did my best and the people spoke. I wish those who were elected well, I hope they serve the community well and hope they do good things on the board because the kids and the district deserve it."
   
The board's Communications meeting was scheduled for 8 p.m. A student awards ceremony and curriculum presentation were to precede the meeting, at 7 p.m.