Superintendent's Column

A Learning Opportunity for Parents

By Dr. Frank A. Tassone

A few years ago, the Roslyn Public Schools initiated a series of programs called Parent University. It was a natural outgrowth of our district's philosophy of extending educational opportunities to everyone in the community, from preschoolers to senior citizens. Topics covered by Parent University's seminars and workshops are chosen because of their relevance to our community's parents.

On Tuesday, January 29 at 7 p.m., Parent University will present a special program entitled, "Who Are Our Heroes? Reaffirming Values" at Roslyn High School. The featured speaker will be Newsday columnist Paul Vitello.

Even before September 11, the committee of administrators, teachers, parents and community members who plan the Parent University events was considering a program about role models in athletics and how parents can help promote our shared values through sports.

Following the attacks last fall, the topic gained an even greater resonance as so many local heroes emerged from the tragedy. The program will now focus on a wider range of admirable individuals who can serve as positive examples for our youngsters.

During his many years at Newsday, Mr. Vitello has written eloquently and sensitively about sports and many other topics, including the aftermath of September 11. He also happens to be a local resident who has a unique perspective which should be of great interest to all parents in our school community.

Following Mr. Vitello's opening address, there will be a panel discussion featuring members of the school district's athletics staff, as well as representatives from community athletic groups and our local fire department.

Parent University, like so many other programs in the Roslyn Public Schools, is a collaborative effort. The Roslyn Teacher Center, which is funded annually by a grant from New York State, takes the lead in organizing the program. The Coordinating Council of Parent Associations, as well as each of the building parent organizations, is represented on the organizing committee and parents play a critical role in developing, implementing and underwriting these events. The Roslyn Teachers Association as well as the Roslyn Administrators and Supervisors Association also provide support for the program. The business community plays a role with volunteers from Citibank and Pierce Country Day School providing valuable input as members of the committee.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of them for their contributions to the success of Parent University over the last few years.

Please join us in the Roslyn High School cafeteria on the evening of Tuesday, January 29 for this special Parent University program.