Robert Riley, a dedicated DARE Officer and School Patrol Officer (SPO) at the Wallkill Central School District, has received the Ulster County School Boards Association (UCSBA) Distinguished Friend of Education Award. “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.
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.
Wallkill Central School District Superintendent Kevin Castle presented the award to Riley at the UCSBA’s annual dinner on May 25 at the Best Western in Kingston.
Detective Riley, of the Plattekill Police Department, has been a tremendous asset to the school district for many years. He is currently in his 28th year serving as the DARE Officer at two of the District’s elementary schools. In addition, he serves as a part-time SPO at Plattekill Elementary School.
With so many outstanding qualities, Detective Riley has one that stands out: the respect he shows to others. His thoughtfulness and attentiveness are evident in his interactions with students and adults alike. His approach to everyone he encounters is caring and compassionate. He ensures that he addresses all situations brought to his attention in a thorough and professional manner.
It is said that the measure of a man is not measured by his stature, but by what he has completed in life, and Detective Riley has guided countless individuals to the gateway of success. He has been a mentor not only to children, but also to staff and parents, and has helped many of them with important life decisions.
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.
Riley’s fellow honorees are: Franceska Elias, Ellenville Central School District; Holly Brooker, Highland Central School District; Ann Bauch, Kingston City School District; Kathleen Keane, Marlboro Central School District; Gregory Warren, New Paltz Central School District; Marcia Panza, Onteora Central School District; Jessica Riozzi, Saugerties Central School District; and Frank Falatyn, Ulster BOCES.