Credit: Neshaminy School District
When Irene Boyle first joined the Neshaminy School Board, cellphones weren’t yet in the hands of every student and widespread virtual schooling was technically impossible.
After 16 years serving on the board and overseeing nine superintendents, Boyle, a Middletown Township resident, is leaving governing body when her term ends this week.
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She’s seen the closing and opening of schools, construction and renovation projects, a long contract dispute that made national headlines, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
The school board last week recognized Boyle’s years of contributions to the district.
State representatives Frank Farry, a Republican from Langhorne Borough, and Tina Davis, a Democrat from Bristol Township, wrote letters to congratulate Boyle.
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Superintendent Dr. Rob McGee said he was a math teacher in the district when Boyle joined the board.
Board President Stephen Pirritano said Boyle’s time on the board was “unprecedented,” especially for a volunteer position.
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Pirritano, who has served with Boyle for nine years, said she always looked at every decision with two aspects – what is best for kids and what is best for taxpayers. He added that she was focused on those two aspects, even during tense discussions.
“You are truly a friend,” he said. “I will miss you and it will be sad not to see you every second Tuesday.”
“Congrats on your retirement and for your long and exemplary service to the students and entire Neshaminy community,” said former Superintendent Dr. Robert Copeland, who recently retired from education.
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Tom Tosti, the outgoing chairperson of the Middletown Township Board of Supervisors, commended Boyle on her years of service in a “thankless job.”
Helene Ratner, the vice chairperson of the Bucks County Democratic Committee and a Middletown Township resident, thanked Boyle for her work while on the school board and her friendship.
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“You all are doing a great job,” she said to the board.
Middletown Township resident Steve Rodos, a regular at school board meetings for years, said Boyle was a voice for the students and teachers. He said she used her “experience gained through her years as an administrator at Temple University” to help Neshaminy.
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Former school board member Anthony Sposato, a Republican, said the two didn’t agree on much politically, but they came together on most issues while on the school board.
“She’s one of the three Democrats I’ve supported in my life. I have no problem supporting Irene,” he said. “Irene, you’re an incredible person. Irene served in the military and I really appreciate that. There’s so much to be appreciative of.”
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Former board members Sue Cummings and Scott Congdon recognized Boyle for her years of service.
Gloria Hancock, a former Neshaminy administrator who served interim superintendent several years back, said Boyle stayed focused on the students and teachers over the years.
Boyle’s voice cracked as she thanked all those who spoke to recognize her years of service.
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“My hope is the school district is better from having been here,” she said.
“To the community, I say be kind to your school board, who are only here to serve,” she stated.
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Closing out her remarks, she reminded the school board why they are up there – for the welfare and education of the community’s children.
“Now, it is time to say goodbye. Until we meet again,” she said.
Also at last week’s meeting, board member David Marrington, a retired teacher, was recognized for his four years of service. He is leaving the board this month.
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McGee thanked Marrington for his contribution to Neshaminy’s comprehensive plan and service on the board.
The school board will reorganize next week and welcome two new members.
Credit: Neshaminy School District
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