Manhasset Named a 16 classroom wing after Dr. Kendall

On Monday, June 23, at 4:30 p.m., The Manhasset Board of Education named the 16-classroom wing at Munsey Park School as the Dr. Jean C. Kendall Wing for Student Learning in honor of Dr. Kendall’s long and notable service to the Manhasset School District (1988-2020) and her contributions to the Munsey Park School, where she served as principal for 23 years

Along with Board Members Steve Panzik, Maria Pescatore, Nadia Giannopoulos, and Marianna Bruno, current principal Dr. Altman, and speakers Retired art teacher Mark Fay, Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips, Retired high school English Dr. Joseph D’Angelo, Retired teacher Marianne O’Donnell, Clerical assistant  Reba Ruthenberg, Parent and business education teacher Jennifer Herber, and her husband, Jim Duffy spoke about Dr. Kendall’s extraordinary commitment to the Manhasset district and her dedication to the well-being and education of each of her students. Members of the Munsey Park band and orchestra shared their musical expertise. Under the direction of David Van Boxel, band members played a fanfare that led the program. Orchestra members, directed by Samantha Madonna Goldberg played the song, “For Good” expressing the way learning with Dr. Kendall was such a positive experience.

Numerous teachers, staff, administrators, parents and community members were in attendance and stood with applause, to support the accolades shared about Dr. Kendall. Dr, Kendall returned that applause to her team of colleagues, faculty and staff, who she proudly described as “laser-focused” on what is best for students.

Dr. Kendall gave many examples:

“All of us worked each day to help so many in so many ways.

All were included - those who could and those who could not do it alone.

Our focus was the truth We spoke and listened with heart 

We validated students and each other with an open mind

Communicated and collaborated with empathy

Worked for a helping purpose and cast a wide vision

One called it, “Eyes Wide Open.”

Kept the spark alive and embraced a growth mindset

“Leaned In” to our challenges and world and planned together. 

Everyone seemed to know that love moves mountains.

Thank you ALL – past and present. You have enhanced the lives of thousands of students.”

Dr. Kendall shared her appreciation and thanks, which concluded with the following statement: “Working with so many wonderful people, doing what I love, celebrating the growth and learning of children and adults, giving from heart and my own learning, and always trying to remember the delicate balance of humility with the responsibilities of our positions, – for me – it does not get any better than that! I am very grateful.” She then added, “Warmest regards and best wishes to future students and all who walk in these halls and learn in the classrooms in the Kendall wing and in all classrooms at Munsey Park to appreciate and benefit from the teams of students, teachers’ staff, colleagues and families who gave so much to build this legacy with me. The best part of this work was doing it all with each of you. THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH.”