Bossert appointed G.N. superintendent

Former head of Elwood School District succeeds Teresa Prendergast, who died on June 10

BY CAMERYN OAKES

The Great Neck Board of Education on Wednesday appointed Kenneth Bossert as the new superintendent of schools. He will begin his five-year term on Aug. 1.

Bossert has an expansive career in school administration. In taking the post as the Great Neck superintendent, he leaves behind his seven-year role as superintendent of the Elwood School District in Suffolk County.

Previously Bossert was the superintendent of schools at the Port Jefferson School District for five years, assistant superintendent at the Three Village Central School District for three years and principal at Eastport South Manor Elementary School.

Bossert started his educational career in 1995 as a Middle Country School District teacher.

He said he was not seeking out a new job venture when he was contacted by District Wise, the search consultant group used by the Great Neck School District to recruit a new superintendent.

“Knowing the standing of this institution and the educational community, I could not pass up the opportunity to become part of this team,” Bossert said.

He said Great Neck is a respected educational institution and a leader in education throughout the state and nation. He said it is an honor to not only lead the district but also to simply be a part of it and collaborate with the administration.

He said an expression he uses frequently is that “the race for excellence has no finish line,” and that is what he’ll apply to his role at the Great Neck Public Schools.

Board of Education President Re- becca Sassouni said that the board understood appointing a new superintendent would be the most significant decision they made and the legacy they leave upon the district. She said the board spent the last couple of months working to make the best decision possible, putting in hours of work.

Sassouni said the decision was made in collaboration among board members, utilizing districtwide focus groups to garner community input. She said appointing Bossert to the position was unanimous across the board of education.

“I’m confident that you will help to maintain and amplify those standards for the parent community, for the student community, for our professionals, our entire staff and for the benefit of all,” Sassouni said.

Board Trustee Donna Peirez said she was doubtful that the board would appoint a superintendent before the end of the school year. She said she is pleased that Bossert is filling the position.

“I have the utmost faith that he will be a wonderful leader for the students, the staff and the community of Great Neck,” Peirez said.

Bossert said he is humbled by the remarks from the board and is thankful for the opportunity.

His five-year term will end July 31, 2028.

Bossert’s appointment comes in the wake of former Superintendent Teresa Prendergast’s unexpected

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