Nearly 25 years ago, my wife and I made the decision to leave the granite canyons of Manhattan life with an eye to return to the suburbia of our childhoods.  With a new daughter on the way, and plans for more children, we searched for a community that would provide us with an environment that would enrich their lives, academically, physically, and spiritually.  After looking at a number of communities on both sides of the rivers, we settled on Great Neck to make our home.

Over the many years, we have been exceptionally happy with our decision, and a large part of that satisfaction has stemmed from the education the kids obtained in the Great Neck school system.  From Baker Hill elementary to North Middle and High schools, the talented teachers and curriculum provided both a broad and deep range of knowledge, supported by the district’s dedicated and motivated administrators.  Guiding this educational system is a school board whose collective wisdom and efforts strive to achieve excellence for its more than 6,500 students.

The keystone of the board is its leader, Board President Rebecca Sassouni.  I first met Rebecca when our children were entering both elementary school and the afternoon Hebrew school at our synagogue, Temple Israel.  Over the years, I have had the honor to work alongside her when she was active in several committees, including doing the heavy lifting for the congregation’s participation in the annual Israel Day parade in New York City.

I also witnessed her diligence during our time on the synagogue’s board of trustees.  Rebecca has brought this same commitment to her efforts on the school board.  Over the years, I have repeatedly seen her steadfastness when it comes to children – personally with her own family, and with the school system entrusted to her care.  I can think of no better candidate as a leader to continue the strong work that enables Great Neck to house one of the best school systems, not just in the United States, but the world.

Harold Citron

Great Neck