(Ed. Note: The following letter was sent to the Glen Cove Board of Education and is printed here at the author's request.)

As concerned parents of the community, we were saddened to hear that Dr. Michael Israel, principal of Landing School, will not be considered for the Assistant Superintendent position in the Glen Cove School District. What would have been a great asset to the community at large would have been a great loss for Landing School. But to lose him to another district would be a disgrace.

Dr. Michael Israel is an intelligent, involved, well-liked member of our community with roots here. He is a taxpayer, a parent and a product of Glen Cove Schools. We could not see a better choice to help Dr. Aronstein with his transition into Glen Cove. Our tight-knit community would have appreciated the promotion of someone from within who is qualified and has a vested interest in Glen Cove.

You must be aware of the progress Landing School has made under Dr. Israel's watchful eye. His staff, parents and students alike all respect him and those ever important test scores have improved dramatically. We all want the best candidate for the job, but the community is tired of the revolving door at Thayer House. Put someone there who is not looking for the next job opportunity, someone who wants nothing but the best for not only his own children, but all the children of Glen Cove, a man who is proud to have his own children educated by this district.

Dr. Aronstein has stated that he truly believes in public education and would not have gotten where he is today without it. Dr. Israel truly believes in public education within Glen Cove, not just public education in theory. What an outstanding combination they would have made together.

Our board of education needs to give the new administration a directive to promote from within. If you do so, you will gain the respect and admiration of the community.

Suzanne Andersen

Amy Franklin

Patty Pilla