During her last regular meeting on November 4 with the Board of Education, Vice Chair Laura Roche was highlighted by a number of members for her efforts during her tenure.

With the new Board of Education members set to start their terms in December, Superintendent of Schools Joseph V. Erardi, Jr, also took a moment during the board’s meeting on Tuesday, November 17, to thank member David Freedman for his time with the board.

“[Ms Roche] has been with us for four years as a board member,” said school board Chair Keith Alexander on November 4. “We’ve had several things that [Ms Roche] has done over time that speak to me as symbols of what she really wants to do, and what she really wants to do is make sure the kids get what they need.”

Board member Michelle Ku said Ms Roche was a great example for her of “a person who is all in, fully dedicated, selfless, and will do what it takes for the district.”

In the time ahead, board member John Vouros said, he will hear Ms Roche’s voice in his head advising him to “move forward when it is the right thing to do, placing politics aside.” Mr Vouros said he will miss Ms Roche, but also said she is “only a phone call away.”

Board member Debbie Leidlein said she appreciates everything Ms Roche has done for the community, being relentless when it was needed.

“I appreciate your husband and your sons giving up their time with you so that you could make our community a better place to live,” Ms Leidlein said.

Dr Erardi, offered Mr Freedman “a personal thank you” at the November 17 meeting.

“David is a dad and gave up quality dad time for early morning policy and capital work and late afternoon negotiation work over the course of his stay,” said Dr Erardi.

Democrat Rebekah Harriman-Stites and Republican Andrew Clure were elected to the board at the start of this month, while Democrat John Vouros was reelected.

The Board of Education’s next regular meeting is scheduled for December 1.