Last Tuesday marked the final meeting of Neshaminy school board member Stephen Pirritano, who previously announced his resignation.
Superintendent Dr. Rob McGee presented Pirritano, who was appointed to the board in October 2013, a plaque and certificate of appreciation for his years of service. McGee reflected on how, prior to joining the board, Pirritano attended every meeting to voice his concerns about the district. McGee praised Pirritano for his fiscal responsibility and involvement in various projects, including the construction of Tawanka Elementary School. McGee said, “Steve is clearly passionate about providing an outstanding educational program to the Neshaminy community.”
Irene Boyle, recently-retired school board member, said she felt fortunate to have Pirritano at the helm as board president during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Despite great opposition, Steve has propelled Neshaminy into the 21st century,” she said. “With his knowledge of construction, finance and business, and his love of Neshaminy district, he was determined that, before he left office, Neshaminy would be fiscally prepared to take on the challenges of the future.”
Fellow board member Tina Hollenbach said, “You are a true steward of the district.” Marty Sullivan added, “There hasn’t been a harder working, more informed board member than Steve Pirritano. He has a passion for what he does. He will definitely be missed. It’s a void we won’t fill.”
Pirritano, a Lower Southampton resident of 26 years, thanked everyone for their kind words and urged parents to keep speaking up about things they want to see changed or improved. He also shared a common question received throughout his tenure – “What do you hope to accomplish?” He said, “One goal always stuck in my mind – to leave this place better than when we found it. With the help of fellow board members, staff, administration, community members, I feel comfortable stating at a minimum, we achieved that goal.”
A replacement for Pirritano is scheduled to be announced at the public work session on May 10.
