Aronstein to Retire in June

Residents in Glen Cove were hit with big news last night after Superintendent Dr. Laurence Aronstein announced that he will retire in June, ending his 46-year run as a professional educator. Aronstein has served as the district's schools chief since 2005. 

During a Glen Cove Board of Education meeting, Aronstein revealed that he recently accepted a new position in the education field and called the job the beginning of a new phase in his career. As a part of his agreement to retire from the district, Aronstein noted that he did not ask for any money for the remaining two years left on his contract. 

"I will be working with a leading educational facility and will be consulting with school districts and school leaders using the knowledge and skills that I have amassed over all of these years," Aronstein explained. " ... Growing up, my parents taught me the value of earning a full day's pay for a full day's work. Although there are two years left on my contract, I ask for nothing."

Aronstein said he was proud of his work as the district's superintendent, highlighting that under his leadership, the administration has always worked to establish a strong academic foundation and sound financial base in the district. 

"Five years ago, I came here and I promised you that I would never let you down, and in my heart, I have fulfilled that promise," he said to more than 50 residents at the Robert M. Finley Middle School. "I have tried to meet all of our challenges in a thoughtful, professional and dignified manner. I certainly am not perfect, however, I always attempt to put forth my best effort."

Board members also spoke highly of Aronstein's performance as a superintendent, with many contending that his experience, knowledge and strong work ethic has helped to improve academics, staffing and facilities in the district. 

Ida McQuair, the board's president, called Aronstein "an enlightening individual." "I will miss you dearly because we've had some terrific conversations ... and you have given me good advice over the years and I will never forget that," she said to Aronstein, after revealing that the board learned about Aronstein's decision shortly before the meeting. "I know you will do very well in your new endeavor."

Board member Joel Sunshine said that Aronstein never hesitated to implement positive changes in the district, recalling that Aronstein helped to add string instrument instruction to the district's music program. 

"This is a very sad moment for the school district in my opinion," Sunshine said. "I hope we don't forget where this school district was five years ago ... and I hope we realize the improvements that have been made under Dr. Aronstein's leadership." 

Board member Richard Tortorici shared similar sentiments by complimenting Aronstein for his financial practices. Tortorici noted that Aronstein immediately helped the district to save money his first year as superintendent when he found waste in the district's budget. 

"I have 12 years on this school board and 32 years in education ... and I say unabashedly that 'Larry' is the best superintendent that I have worked for and with," Tortorici said. "... Glen Cove owes a debt to 'Larry' Aronstein that I don't know how we will ever repay." 

No announcements have been made about when the board will begin its search for a new superintendent. 

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