Three local residents were among those who received the Ulster County School Boards Association (UCSBA) Distinguished Friend of Education Award.

These champions of education include educators, business leaders, volunteers, advocates and community members who willingly take the time to build relationships and establish trust within our local schools, knowing that what they invest in students in turn strengthens their families, their communities, and ultimately the world around them.

This year’s honorees included Holly Brooker, a steadfast supporter of the Highland Central School District; Kathleen Keane, a devoted teacher in the Marlboro Central School District; and Gregory Warren, a devoted administrator in the New Paltz Central School District.

“The annual award recognizes individuals who lead with their heart and help to build a brighter future for Ulster County students,” said Ulster BOCES District Superintendent Dr. Jonah Schenker.

Schenker is full of praise for this year’s honorees. “We honor those who have made a difference in our youth, because after all, doesn’t every child deserve a champion?” he said.

Highland Central School District Superintendent Joel Freer presented the award to Brooker at the UCSBA’s annual dinner on May 25 at the Best Western in Kingston.

For many years Brooker has served as the primary liaison between the HCSD and the Highland community, leading strategic efforts to share positive news and pertinent information through the District’s communication channels, including the website, social media, newspapers, mailings and more. Her ability to communicate complex issues in friendly, easy-to-understand ways has helped the District pass countless school budgets and Capital Projects over the years. Her efforts have also helped the District build trust and strengthen parent/community engagement.

As a parent and longtime resident of Highland, Brooker always has her finger on the pulse of the community. She is often one of the first to spread awareness of school district events or correct any misinformation that may be circulating. She is a strong advocate for education and appreciates the value of helping school districts foster relationships with their stakeholders. She has been actively involved in the school PTAs and currently volunteers for the Junior Achievement program and the Highland Rotary Club.

Marlboro Central School District Board of Education Vice President Trish Benniger presented the award to Keane who, in the words of the event organizers, teaches from the heart, and her creativity inspires students to get excited to learn math. The students call her “Mama Keane,” and she often stays after school for those who need extra help.

For the past 15 years, Keane has led fundraising efforts to help community members who are coping with cancer-related illnesses. In addition, she and her daughter spearheaded a literacy book drive through two local libraries. Their fundraising efforts enabled them to stock the libraries with more than 400 new books.

Keane is a true visionary and is always looking for ways to stay up-to-date with the latest health trends and developments.

She has a bright and positive energy and is an amazing role model for our students and faculty. She goes above and beyond the call of duty and is an extraordinary ambassador who exemplifies the school district’s mission.

New Paltz Central School District Board of Education Trustee Teresa Thompson presented the award to Warren.

“In his six years with the District, Warren has accomplished many of the goals that are important to our school community,” said Gratto.

Warren, who holds a master’s degree in Special Education/Adapted Physical Education from Coppin State University, realized the District’s need for additional support for its special education students. In 2021, he expanded the health and athletic options for both special education and regular education students by bringing Unified Sports to New Paltz High School.

Warren played an important role in the development and implementation of the Unified Bowling and the Unified Basketball teams. These two programs provided an opportunity for all students—including those with special needs—to participate on an athletic team that represented their school. Unified athletics has had strong peer involvement and continues to expand each year.

Additionally, Warren ensured that students with special needs were considered in the building of the new Wellness Center at New Paltz High School. The center houses an array of standard gym equipment, as well as adaptive physical education equipment, including hand cycles and attachments for various exercise stations.

Other honorees are: Franceska Elias, Ellenville Central School District; Ann Bauch, Kingston City School District;Marcia Panza, Onteora Central School District; Jessica Riozzi, Saugerties Central School District; Robert Riley, Wallkill Central School District; and Frank Falatyn, Ulster BOCES.