On February 6, 2024, SHAI and the Great Neck Public Schools United Parent Teacher Council (UPTC) hosted our annual educational forum at North High School, where Dr. Kenneth Bossert, new superintendent of schools, presented a review of his first 100 days in the district.  He was very positive, animated, amiable, and knowledgeable.  Dr. Bossert’s theme of the night was “Where discovery meets greatness.”   

Dr. Bossert spoke of the mission statement of GNPS to support academic excellence and the social and emotional growth of the students to become “life-long learners, compassionate, productive members of a diverse, global society.”  He was very appreciative of SHAI’s dedication to bringing the community together and assisting in educating the community on important topics.  Dr. Bossert spoke about the excellence of the Great Neck Public School system continuing traditions of “no place for hate,” and receiving awards for the best elementary, middle, and high schools in US National News 2023-2024.  He also shared the GNPS’s support of busing for private schools.

Dr. Bossert shared ways parents can stay connected to the schools, and shared photos of successful events.   He spoke about adopted educational goals, one of them being to reduce antisemitism.  A parent in the audience presented Dr. Bossert with a “Bring Them Home” necklace to thank him for all his efforts against antisemitism, acknowledging the hostages.  Dr. Bossert emphasized collaboration with parents and community organizations to support engagement and excellence, sharing that “The race to excellence has no finish line,” as we are always striving to improve. Coordinated by Pargol Khadavi, SHAI’s Educational Affairs Liaison and a UPTC Vice President, this event was well attended by concerned parents and SHAI members, including Rebecca Sassouni, President of the GNPS Board of Education, Claudine Amirian, and Misha Haghani.  SHAI is proud to be a lead partner in events that address important topics and build bonds with the local educational community, strengthening our long-lasting relationship with the GNPS.