Elwood Union Free School District
100 Kenneth Avenue
Greenlawn, New York 1174

September 2005

 

To Whom It May Concern:

It is with great pleasure that I recommend Dr. Richard Bernato as both a Coordinator of Site Based Management training, as well as a Coordinator/Chair for Strategic Planning.  Dr. Bernato served Elwood in both of these positions during the 2004/05 school year and did so with a high level of success.  Across all constituent groups, Dr. Bernato was viewed as prepared, knowledgeable, approachable and helpful.  When one considers the number of diverse groups involved in both Site Based Management teams and Strategic Planning for a school district, to be held in such high regard by all is an achievement to be commended.

In terms of our Strategic Planning Council specifically, I had the opportunity to serve with Dr. Bernato in the position of co-chair for the group.  The Elwood Strategic Planning Council numbered more than 40 members including administrators, teachers, university partners, parents, students and community residents.  Dr. Bernato was the significant force in planning, coordinating and training the entire group.  As a result, the Elwood Strategic Planning Council developed five action plans across four months that will serve as the guideposts for educational improvement in Elwood during the next three academic years.  I encourage you to view the product of this work on the Elwood Web Site at: www.elwood.k12.ny.us.

Our experience with the services of Dr. Bernato was extremely positive and successful.  As a matter of fact, should Elwood have the need for such services in the future, Dr. Bernato would be the first one I would call.  As such, I recommend him to you without reservation.  Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at: 631-266-6206 or at: mrhogan@elwood.k12.ny.us.

Very truly yours,

John J. Hogan
Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Standards