Friends of the Scarsdale Library Gala Raises Record $130,000 at “Casino Royale” Evening

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Written by: Daniela Retelny

Category: Arts and Entertainment

Published: 28 April 2026

The community’s enduring enthusiasm for the Scarsdale Library was on full display on Friday, April 17, as more than 250 guests gathered at Beach Point Club in Mamaroneck for the 2026 Friends of the Scarsdale Library Gala, themed “Casino Royale.”

From the moment guests arrived, they were transported into a festive and elegant setting shaped by the creative vision of event producer Sabine Poisson. Drawing on her design expertise, Sabine led the aesthetic direction of the evening, transforming the waterfront venue into an immersive “Casino Royale” experience. From the overall room design and layout to the refined decorative details, her work set the tone for a sophisticated and cohesive atmosphere that carried throughout the night.

Working closely alongside her, gala co-chair Allison Commeau of Confetti by Allison oversaw the planning and execution of the event, ensuring that every element came together seamlessly and that guests experienced the evening exactly as envisioned.

The night featured signature cocktails, passed hors d’oeuvres, and a lavish buffet overlooking Long Island Sound. Guests tried their luck at blackjack and craps tables while enthusiastically supporting the library’s mission.

Beyond the décor and entertainment, the event delivered strong engagement from attendees. Guests participated in a robust silent auction featuring sought-after items from local businesses and national brands, while balloon pops and raffle prizes added an extra layer of excitement.

The gala was not only a vibrant social gathering but also a record-breaking success. Thanks to the generosity of attendees, sponsors, and donors, the event raised an impressive $130,000 in support of the Scarsdale Library.

Notably, the evening welcomed many newer residents attending for the first time, signaling a growing and engaged next generation of supporters eager to connect with and contribute to the community.

Gala co-chairs Daniela Retelny Blum, Toby Milstein Schulman, Liza Brush, and Allison Commeau brought a fresh vision to the event, balancing elegance, energy, and purpose.

The evening also served as a reminder of the library’s evolution. Sixteen years ago, when plans were first developed to reimagine and expand the Scarsdale Library, questions arose about the role of libraries in an increasingly digital world. The vision, however, extended far beyond books—a vibrant, multigenerational community hub. Although the newly constructed library’s opening was delayed by the pandemic until May 2021, it has since been fully embraced, with packed programs, active study spaces, and a steady calendar of events.

That momentum continues today, driven in large part by the Friends of the Scarsdale Library. Funds raised support key initiatives including the Makerspace, museum passes, and year-round programming for residents of all ages.

In recent years, leadership of both the Library Board and the Friends has transitioned to a new generation of stewards, who continue to expand programming, maintain the facility, and build on the library’s success.

Reflecting on the evening, the co-chairs shared:

“What a way to spend a Friday night. We are deeply grateful for your presence at the Friends of the Scarsdale Library Gala. Bringing together more than 250 members of the FOSL community—both long-standing supporters and new faces—made for an unforgettable evening.

Thanks to your generosity, we are thrilled to have surpassed previous fundraising records. Every contribution—through attendance, sponsorships, auction bids, raffle participation, and balloon pops—helps us enhance our programs and ensures the library remains a vibrant hub for our community.”

Proceeds from the gala will enable the Friends of the Scarsdale Library to continue supporting the programs and resources that make the library an essential part of community life.

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The Friends of the Scarsdale Library would like to extend their sincere thank you to their headline sponsors whose support made the evening possible:

Double‑07 Headline Sponsor:
- The Angela Retelny Team at Compass
Royal Casino Entertainment Sponsor:
- NewYork-Presbyterian
Vesper Martini Cocktail Sponsors:
- Cheryl and Philip Milstein
- Toby and Judah Schulman
High-Roller Sponsors:
- Anonymous
- Breaking Solutions
- Marichal and Aman Gupta
- PURE Insurance
- Tiah & Chris Gotfredson
- Shoreline Painting
- The Scarsdale Hub

They would also like to thank all of the gala's sponsors and the many local and national businesses that contributed to the silent auction and balloon raffle, as well as Mark Jessamy Photography for capturing the evening.

For more information about the Friends of the Scarsdale Library or to make a donation, please visit https://www.scarsdalelibrary.org/connect/friends. If you would like to get involved with the Friends, please email [email protected].

The Scarsdale I Know

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Written by: Joanne Wallenstein

Category: On Our Minds

Published: 19 April 2026

(This is the opinion of Joanne Wallenstein, Publisher of Scarsdale10583.com)

I was heartbroken to learn about recent incidents of antisemitism in the Scarsdale Schools and sad to witness how mistakes made by teens can quickly be inflamed by social media. In no time at all a single event can make it look as if the entire community is coming apart at the seams.

What happened? As recounted by the SHS Principal, last week, “several signs advertising the Israeli Culture Club’s celebration of Israel’s 78th Independence Day were removed from hallway walls, and some of them were put in urinals in boys’ bathrooms. In addition, the School Government’s Instagram post advertising the event received two replies criticizing the event using vulgar language.”

The story has already hit the New York Post and national news, and a petition is being circulated asking for the resignation of the President of the Scarsdale School board. Is something rotten in the town of Scarsdale. Does this incident define us? Are there flaws in the fabric of our town?

Not in the Scarsdale that I know.

From where I sit I see a very diverse community centered on excellence in education, community and mutual respect. Residents hail from all over the globe, speak a multitude of languages, observe many different religions and hold disparate political views. How do I know? Because in the past few months we have covered everything from Chinese New Year, to Iftar and the publication of a beloved Rabbi’s new book. At each Scarsdale Village Board meeting the Mayor notes a long list of religious and cultural observances on the calendar for the month – reaching out to all groups to make them know they are welcome and important contributors to life in Scarsdale. Last year the school district made major changes to the academic calendar to accommodate celebrations of Eid, the Lunar New Year and Juneteenth.

In just the past two weeks, I attended three local events that left me moved by the depth of feeling for our community and the generosity of my neighbors.

On April 6th, our Village Historian Jordan Copeland presented a lecture on the History of the Jews to a packed room of Jews and non-Jews at Scarsdale Library. He traced the growth of the Jewish population in Scarsdale, noting their involvement in business, civic affairs, and the many contributions they made to life in Scarsdale. He also outlined the darker side of the story - how restrictive covenants prevented Jews from living in certain areas and how Jews were not welcome at local country clubs. But what did he conclude? After spending a year doing research he was actually heartened by the Jewish experience in Scarsdale and encouraged residents in the audience to welcome newcomers from other faiths and nations as they would have liked to be welcomed themselves.

That was just one event that made me proud to be here.

On Tuesday April 12 I participated in a focus group as part the development of a strategic plan for the Scarsdale Library – and sat around the table with a diverse group of Scarsdale residents, of all ages and races - most of whom I had not met before. They were asked to provide their thoughts on what they valued about the community and what could be done to improve it. Turns out, they were a happy group. A retiree said that after her children were grown she and her husband decided to stay in town – because everything they could want was here. They could walk to the Village, use the library and enjoy their friends and their golf game. Where else could match it? A more recent entrant said she felt safe at home, liked that her kids could hang out in the Village by themselves and was happy with the schools.

Struggling to think of what could be better, people mentioned more sidewalks and a supermarket, but quickly decided that all in all Scarsdale is well run and that’s why they’re happy here. Any improvements they could imagine were already in the works.

Then I had the pleasure of attending an event at Westchester Reform Temple, where former Rabbi Angela Buchdahl was in conversation with current Rabbi Jonathan Blake about her new book documenting her path as a Korean-American female rabbi and cantor. She was thrilled to be back in a place she called home, where she felt the acceptance and love of a congregation who embraced someone who broke all previous notions of what it means to be Jewish.

Referring to a recent article in The New Yorker, Rabbi Blake asked, “Are synagogues coming apart at the seams about Israel?” She provided a calming, rationale and reassuring response. She said, “You’re seeing extreme emotions over this. It has never been harder to talk about Israel and I did not want to lose people in my community over Israel. But I don’t think our community is falling apart at the seams…. We are a spiritual community and we are still taking care of each other. We see each other as good human beings. We have to be decent to each other. We are serving something higher – bigger than ourselves. When we pray together and sing, when we lift our voices, when we help someone who is ill, the kindness transcends Israel – and disagreement. We can keep our caring community at the core.”

I recount these stories to put the incidents in the news into the proper perspective.

To me this event is not a symptom of larger problems simmering beneath the surface. The incident was simply an attempt to grab attention by a few kids who have not learned how to engage in debate in appropriate ways.

I was impressed by the well thought out response from school leaders who clearly took these missteps seriously. The high school principal vowed to be “swift, decisive, and fair in responses to violations of the Code of Conduct.” The Superintendent said the district is developing “a clear, written set of guidelines regarding student speech and dress at school sponsored activities.” The Board of Education vowed to work in partnership with the district and the community to reinforce the values of respect, dignity and inclusion.” And the President of the Board, said, “As a parent, I will focus on healing my family. But as a school board member, my focus will continue to be on our students, our schools, and our educational program. I am fully committed to following through on our mission, which is to support each student's full development, enabling them to be effective and independent contributors in a democratic society within an interdependent world.”

Their words were thoughtful, empathetic and offered concrete steps to prevent future incidents and more forward.

In April and May Scarsdale celebrates our community with wonderful events that bring out people from all quarters. Last week it was a sold-out gala to support the library, this week, it’s the Scarsdale Bowl to spotlight community volunteers and in May, Scarsdale Family Counseling Service will honor those who support the community’s mental health.
These are opportunities to celebrate who we are.

I am not letting an ugly incident shake my confidence in an excellent community of caring friends and responsible leaders. I hope you will all reflect on what you value here and take steps to come together to further strengthen the fabric of the community we all love.

Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2026

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Written by: Joanne Wallenstein

Category: The Goods

Published: 30 April 2026

Spa treatments, jewelry, home goods, scents, canasta accessories, sunglasses and spring clothing are all in store in Scarsdale for Mother’s Day on Sunday May 10, 2026. We’re fortunate to have so many wonderful options at our doorstep.

Shop local this year and you won’t need to worry about late shipments and out of stock items. It’s all here for you and all the special moms, grandmothers, aunts and sisters in Scarsdale!

Here are some tempting suggestions for gifts all available in a quick drive from home.

Holsten Jewelers

Holsten Jewelers invites you to experience over 100 years of family tradition and craftsmanship. We specialize in engagement rings, custom designs, jewelry repair, watch restoration and more.

What do you give the woman who made you who you are? Something just as personal. Adina Reyter charm necklaces turn meaningful moments into something she will wear every day. They’re thoughtful, personal, and beautifully made.

For the mom who does it all, give her something that does the same. Diamond Tennis Necklaces are timeless for a reason! They’re clean, chic, and endlessly versatile. From everyday wear to special occasions, it’s a piece she’ll never take off.

Holsten Jewelers, 5 Harwood, Court, Scarsdale (914) 472-4554.

I Am More Scarsdale

Mother’s Day is easy at I Am More Scarsdale. We’ve curated the perfect gifts—from statement pieces to everyday essentials, plus accessories and jewelry she’ll wear on repeat. And if you’re looking for something more flexible, I Am More gift cards never disappoint.

Let I Am More help you find a gift she’ll truly love—because moms deserve more—and when you shop with I Am More, you’re also shopping with purpose, supporting a women-led, philanthropic business dedicated to empowering women and giving back to the community.

Enjoy spring savings with up to 25% off select regular-priced clothing and accessories. Shop online (http://www.iammorescarsdale.com) or in-store at 6 Spencer Place, Scarsdale, Monday-Saturday 11am-5pm, Sundays 11am-4pm, and by appointment. (Instagram @iammore.scarsdale).

Chick Magnets

Chick Magnets’ patented canasta traveler keeps cards secure—even on windy days—so you can play anywhere from the beach to the pool. A fun and thoughtful Mother’s Day gift from two Scarsdale women entrepreneurs. Order at chickmagnets.co - free same day local delivery to 10583.

Rocks Jewelry Gift HomeEffortless jewelry pieces Mom is sure to treasure every day.

For a unique shopping experience, visit ROCKS Jewelry • Gifts • Home • Design in the Golden Horseshoe. We are a full-service Fine and Fashion jewelry store, including repairs and custom work. You’ll also find more than fifty Home Accessory brands — from Made Goods, Arteriors, Globals Views, and Jonathan Adler. Need help accessorizing? We offer full service Interior Design services, including furniture, wallpaper, and lighting. Yes, we do it all! ROCKS is the best place to shop for Hostess Luxurious scent and soft florals to make her feel celebrated and serene makes the perfect gift for Mom.Gifts, with a huge selection of gift items starting as low as $25. Enjoy our ROCKS Concierge services. Call, email, or go online... and get it delivered right to your door.

Rocks Jewelry, Gifts, Home, Golden Horseshoe Shopping Center, Wilmot Road Scarsdale , 914-219-5808


Eye Gallery of Scarsdale

The Eye Gallery of Scarsdale invites you to visit their beautiful Boniface Circle boutique and explore the latest in sunglasses and eyewear for Spring 2026. Featuring coveted styles from Celine, Chanel, Chrome Hearts, Jacques Marie Mage, and Barton Perreira, there’s no shortage of standout options. Perfect for gifting or refreshing your own collection. While you’re there, be sure to book your annual eye exam and experience their signature concierge-level care.

The Loewe Anagram LW40160i 66A sunglasses, priced at $440, strike the perfect balance between bold and refined. Featuring an oversized silhouette and the iconic Loewe Anagram detail, they bring a sculptural, fashion-forward edge to everyday wear. The warm-toned lenses and polished frame make them an effortlessly chic choice for spring styling.

For a more understated, elevated look, the Oliver Peoples Jill Sander Edition 3 sunglasses, priced at $740, deliver quiet luxury at its finest. Designed with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic, this collaboration embodies timeless sophistication. Lightweight yet impactful, they’re the perfect finishing touch for a polished, modern wardrobe.

Eye Gallery of Scarsdale, 15 Boniface Circle, Scarsdale, (914) 472-2020.

Tranquility Spa

For over 30 years now, Tranquility Spa in Scarsdale has been Westchester’s destination location for an extraordinary, life-enhancing experience: a short-term getaway vacation to focus your mind, relax your body and free your soul. Give the moms in your life the gift they deserve. Allow them time away to recharge. There is no better Mother's Day gift than a day at Tranquility Spa. Visit their website to see current specials for the special person in your life. Choose a de-stressing massage, consider a HydraFacial with dermaplaning to turn back the hands of time, or purchase a package with multiple services and allow them to have a longer experience.

Tranquility Spa, 917 Central Park Avenue, Scarsdale, 914.713.0066, Open Monday-Friday 10AM to 7PM, Saturday-Sunday 9AM to 6PM

Scentfluence

Mother’s Day and Scentfluence’s Relocation Sale are timed perfectly this year to help you find the perfect gift. Enjoy 30% off a wide selection of luxury scent oils* and diffusers. Also discover signature, luxury hotel scents and scented products for any style, mood, or mom you love. *Sale excludes hotel scents and products. scentfluence.com.

ScentFluence, 22 Harwood Court, Scarsdale Village, Mon-Fri 12-5 pm.

Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology

Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology: Elevate your look and enter the season feeling like your best self with Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology in Scarsdale.

This Mother’s Day give mom what she really wants, the gift of rejuvenation. Get her glowing with a $500 or more gift card and receive a BONUS $100* Gift Card for her or you!

From Mommy Make-Overs, Daddy Do-Overs and Grandma Glow-Ups, to Cosmetic Injectable Treatments, reserving your private and complimentary consultation now will ensure everyone is ready for the upcoming summer soiree’s. Aesthetic gifting is the new jewelry, Gift Certificates and Curated Packages are now among the most requested luxury gifts. Call (914) 635-4737 or visit GreenbergCosmeticSurgery.com to learn more.

Board Candidate Erica German Says She's Ready to Make a Meaningful Contribution on Day One

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Written by: Joanne Wallenstein

Category: People

Published: 04 May 2026

Erica German is running as an independent candidate for the Scarsdale School Board. Before the election on May 19, she agreed to an interview to allow readers to learn more about her. See what she said below:

Please introduce yourself to Scarsdale residents.

My name is Erica German and I’ve been a Scarsdale resident and volunteer leader in our schools for 18 years. I currently serve as President of Scarsdale’s Parent-Teacher Council (PTC), the District-wide organization that connects all seven school PTAs. I’ve also served on the Quaker Ridge PTA Executive Committee twice, first as VP of Class Parents and then as President. I am running for the Board of Education as a private citizen, not in my role as PTC President.

My husband, Jonathan Potack, and I are the parents of four children–currently in 4th grade, 9th grade, and college, with our oldest graduating from college this year. In fact, this is my 17th consecutive year as a Scarsdale elementary school parent!

All four have attended Scarsdale schools, from Heathcote and Quaker Ridge through the Middle School and High School. Having children across a wide range of ages has given me a real-time view into the student experience at every level, from elementary school through the college admissions process at SHS. Our family has also had experience with special education services in Scarsdale schools, which has been an important part of our journey.

Professionally, I’m a practicing psychiatrist. I work with individuals, couples, and families, helping people navigate challenges, strengthen relationships, and support their children. That perspective–listening carefully, understanding different viewpoints, and working collaboratively to solve problems–is something I would bring to the Board of Education if voters elect me.

How long have you lived in town and what do you value about the community?

My family’s connection to Scarsdale spans generations–my mother-in-law attended Scarsdale schools 70 years ago, graduating from Scarsdale High School in 1961, and my husband graduated from Scarsdale High School in 1994. My husband and I moved here in 2008, after completing our medical training at Mount Sinai Medical Center, when our oldest son was four years old.

Like many families, we came for the schools–but what has kept us here is the community. Over the past 18 years, we’ve built wonderful friendships and watched our children grow through an outstanding school system. We enjoy all that the Village of Scarsdale offers, including the pool, rec sports, the summer camp program, and the library.

I am so appreciative of all the people who work behind the scenes to make our Village clean, safe, and beautiful. There’s a real sense of care and responsiveness here, whether it’s in our schools or across Village services.

Even small interactions–like working with the Department of Public Works on a recent tree planting in front of my home–reflect a level of thoughtfulness and care that makes this community special.

This combination of excellent schools, engaged families, and a responsive, supportive Village is what makes Scarsdale such a special place to live.

You have had years of volunteer experience in town. Tell us about your roles, some of the initiatives you worked on – and anything you were proud to be a part of.

I first became involved in the Scarsdale school community in 2009 as a class parent and a Heathcote garden volunteer. Over time, I’ve taken on a range of PTA leadership roles at both Heathcote and Quaker Ridge, including serving as Quaker Ridge VP Class Parents, and then Quaker Ridge PTA President.

I now serve as President of Scarsdale’s District-wide Parent-Teacher Council. I work closely with parents, teachers, and administrators across committees including CHILD (special education parent support/advisory program), technology, safety, student wellness, belonging, and food services.

This role has given me a broad view of Scarsdale Public Schools priorities, as well as the opportunity to listen carefully to community concerns and bring those perspectives into ongoing conversations with Dr. Patrick, his team, and the School Board.

One area on which I’ve focused is academics, particularly the elementary math curriculum. I’ve worked to ask thoughtful questions, shared parent feedback with Dr. McIntosh and Dr. Patrick, arranged group forums as well as individual meetings between parents and Dr. McIntosh, and helped move conversations with District leadership toward solutions. As the parent of a fourth grader, I can appreciate parents’ concerns and questions regarding this issue.

As PTC President-Elect, last year, I worked collaboratively on a very important initiative at the high school: the introduction of an online grade portal. After hearing consistent feedback from students and families about the need for clearer, more accessible information about academic progress, I worked with the SHS PTA, Dr. Patrick, teacher representatives, parents, and students to advocate for this change.

I’m also proud of the work I’ve done to build community and foster inclusivity in Scarsdale schools. At Quaker Ridge, I helped organize three large-scale community-building events designed not just for students, but also to create meaningful connections among parents. Sometimes this bridge-building work is large-scale, but sometimes even the small gestures matter–like something as simple as encouraging nametags at events to make it easier for people to connect.

Another meaningful contribution for me was during COVID. I served on the District’s Mental Health Restart Committee, through which I was able to contribute both as a parent and as a psychiatrist. At the same time, I volunteered as a COVID vaccinator in Westchester County, spending 300 hours administering more than 2,000 vaccines to adults and children. In a personal capacity, I also helped local families and Scarsdale employees including teachers, school bus drivers, and sanitation staff navigate vaccine access during a very challenging time. Also during that time, I volunteered through the Physician Support Line, a national free hotline offering support by phone for physicians dealing with the stress of working through a pandemic.

Across all of these roles, what I’m most proud of is the opportunity to listen, to connect people, and to help move ideas forward in a collaborative and constructive way.

What professional skills do you bring to the Board of Education?Erica German

As a psychiatrist, my core professional skill is listening–carefully, objectively, and with the goal of helping patients develop a new or deeper understanding of an issue. I ask clarifying questions to help patients make sense of complex issues, and we work together to find solutions.

Those skills translate directly to what I believe I would bring to serving the community as a member of the School Board. In my PTA/C roles, I’ve often worked with groups that include multiple stakeholders with different or conflicting views. As a psychiatrist, I have professional training in leading groups. I strive to facilitate discussions in such a way that all participants can voice opinions and ask questions, making sure people feel heard, while also helping keep discussions focused, respectful, and moving forward.

I’m also trained to manage conflict constructively. I stay calm under pressure, think before I respond, and aim to communicate clearly and respectfully, even in challenging situations. At the same time, I’m not hesitant to ask tough questions and I share my perspective when it’s needed.

In addition to my clinical work, I teach first-year medical students communication skills, including how to navigate sensitive conversations, how to work collaboratively as a team, and how to handle disagreement productively. Those are the same skills that would support effective Scarsdale Public Schools governance and strong working relationships with District leadership and the range of stakeholders in the community.

As a physician, I also bring a deep understanding of student well-being, which I see as requisite to Board work focused on learning and success in Scarsdale Public Schools.
Lastly, as a psychiatrist my hours are flexible, with a part-time patient load. I would be available for the full range of School Board-related meetings and school visits, both during the day and in the evenings. I am accustomed to balancing my career and my school volunteer commitments for the PTC President role.

Overall, I believe that my professional skills would inform a thoughtful, collaborative approach to addressing Scarsdale Public Schools issues, grounded in listening, respect, and a focus on moving the work forward in a productive way.

As a parent, what do you feel are the strengths of the Scarsdale schools? What, if anything, would you like to see changed or improved?

As a parent with children who have gone through each of the three levels of the District, across multiple schools, and as a longtime parent volunteer and leader engaged with school-building and District-wide leadership, I’ve seen firsthand what Scarsdale does exceptionally well. The quality of teaching is strong, class sizes allow for real engagement, and there are meaningful structures like the middle school house model that support students socially as well as academically. At the high school level, the breadth of course offerings is outstanding–my older children were able to discover their interests and even potential career paths through electives and advanced coursework. I have also had the opportunity with my own children to experience first-hand some of the District’s very important special education programs.

Beyond academics, the extracurricular opportunities are exceptional, and our facilities continue to be thoughtfully maintained and improved. For example, the recent auditorium upgrade has created incredible opportunities for students involved in theater and technical arts. I also value the District’s commitment to student well-being, with generally strong access to counseling and mental health support.

At the same time, having been very engaged in Scarsdale Public Schools for many years, I recognize that it’s important to continue critically evaluating our program and improving.
For example, there are ongoing discussions around AP versus AT course offerings, and I think that’s an area where continued evaluation is important, particularly given how AP credit can impact students’ college pathways.

As the parent of a Scarsdale elementary-school student, with three other children who also attended Scarsdale elementary schools, I understand first-hand the frustrations about the math curriculum, and I would urge continued review, engagement with the parent community, and consideration of changes.

I’m also very focused on how Scarsdale schools approach technology. The landscape has changed dramatically, especially with the rise of AI. I think we need thoughtful, balanced policies in Scarsdale—with policymaking a responsibility of the Board of Education—that allow us to take advantage of new tools while still prioritizing critical thinking, communication, and strong foundational skills. It’s important to limit overuse of screens while ensuring students have safe, thoughtful access to technology that prepares them for college and careers.
Overall, I see a school district with tremendous strengths but ample room for improvement. I firmly believe that we in Scarsdale should always be asking how we can do even better. That belief has continually guided my years of active engagement in Scarsdale Public Schools as parent volunteer and leader. My goal would be to build on our foundation while continuing to listen, ask hard questions, apply independent critical thinking, adapt, and improve where needed.

Why did you decide to run for school board at this time?

I decided to run for the Board of Education at this time because I feel ready to contribute in a direct and impactful way. Through my work as PTC President, and more generally during my 17 years of engagement in the District, I’ve built relationships across all seven schools and with District leadership. I’ve developed a deep, textured understanding of the issues facing our schools. I’ve attended nearly all public Board of Education meetings over the past two years (and many BOE meetings prior to these two years, as Quaker Ridge PTA President and otherwise). This has given me a clear view of how the School Board, Administration, building leadership, and faculty operate.

I’ve found this work in Scarsdale Public Schools deeply meaningful. I derive fulfillment from listening to different perspectives, working through complex issues, drawing on my experience, and helping move conversations toward thoughtful solutions. Serving on the Board feels like it would be a natural next step—an opportunity to continue that work, but with a broader responsibility for oversight, policy, budgeting, and long-term planning.

I believe I can step into the role ready to meaningfully contribute on day one. Most importantly, I see Board of Education service as a way to continue to serve the schools and community that has given so much to my family over many decades.

Share any thoughts about Scarsdale’s non-partisan election system.

Scarsdale’s non-partisan election system, including the SBNC process, has a long history in this community and is designed to encourage thoughtful candidate selection and broad civic engagement. The SBNC Resolution provides that SBNC members should focus on potential nominees’ experience and qualification for Board of Education service. I respect the work that SBNCs have done over the years, and the many community members who have volunteered their time to participate in it.

This year, I put my hat in the ring for nomination by the SBNC and was not nominated. It appears that the committee deprioritized prior experience with and active engagement in the School District. I can’t speak to why that was the case. That said, going through the process did not change my belief that I have the experience, perspective, commitment, and available time to serve effectively on the Board of Education.

On a personal level, this decision is also meaningful to me as a parent. I want my four children to see that if you care deeply about something and believe you can contribute, it’s worth continuing to step forward, even if the first path doesn’t work out.

Ultimately, I decided to run independently because I believe there is value, this year, in giving all Scarsdale voters the opportunity to engage in the election of candidates for the two open seats. In a sense, I view my independent run as somewhat analogous to the independent runs of Pam Fuehrer and Alison Singer, in 2018 and 2021.

I see myself as participating in a democratic process in a constructive and respectful way, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of that conversation with the community.
In your view, what are the biggest challenges facing the Scarsdale Schools?

In my view, a fundamental challenge is ensuring that curriculum and instructional decisions reflect meaningful community engagement. Families care deeply about their children’s learning. It is important to have transparent communication between families and the District, and for parent feedback to be genuinely considered.

Relatedly, I believe that one of the biggest ongoing challenges facing Scarsdale schools is finding the right balance around technology—both in how we use it to enhance learning and how we manage its impact on students’ lives outside the classroom.

During the COVID pandemic a few years ago, the Scarsdale community saw how essential technology was for continuity of learning. Since then, the conversation has appropriately shifted. Families are now focused on questions of screen time, smartphones, social media, and how schools can partner with parents to support healthy boundaries. As a parent of four, I understand how real those challenges are in daily life. Through my work on the PTC Technology Committee and engagement with Dr. Patrick, his cabinet, and principals, I’ve also seen the value of strong collaboration between families and the District in promoting appropriate digital use and digital safety.

Overall, I see the Board’s role as helping to navigate these complex issues by listening carefully, asking thoughtful questions, and ensuring that School District decisions reflect both educational expertise and the experiences of students and families.

Each year it seems to be more difficult to craft a budget that stays within the tax cap and funds the program. What to do?

It is increasingly challenging for Scarsdale to both stay within the State tax cap and fully sustain all of Scarsdale’s current education program, let alone advance the program over time. This challenge is linked to rising inflation and increased expenses, including rising healthcare costs.

The tax cap provides a benchmark, but budgeting to it can lead to trade-offs in preserving some of the hallmarks of a Scarsdale education–such as small class sizes, strong middle school structures like the house system, and robust course offerings at the high school.

I think the Board’s responsibility is first to look carefully for efficiencies and savings while being dedicated to sustaining the student experience in Scarsdale (in terms of academics, student supports, and extracurricular opportunities). We should continue to use reserves and other fund balance thoughtfully and strategically–not as a long-term solution, but as a way to manage volatility. It should be a priority to maintain a healthy fund balance, which is a key component allowing us to maintain a strong credit rating, leading to more favorable interest rates on our bond issuances.

That said, the Board needs to be transparent with the community about what is possible within the tax cap framework, and what trade-offs may exist. Ultimately if maintaining hallmarks of a Scarsdale-quality experience requires additional spending beyond what the tax cap allows, the Board should share this information with the community in a clear way and consider providing the community that option, as the District did successfully with the 2024-2025 budget.

Please comment on the recent antisemitic incident and the District’s and Board’s response?

The recent incidents of antisemitism were deeply painful for many in our community and prompted strong emotions and difficult conversations across Scarsdale. The incidents also highlighted how quickly situations like this can polarize a community, and how important it is to respond thoughtfully, carefully, and with a focus on bringing people together.

I come to this issue with a very personal family history. My grandparents were Holocaust survivors. My grandmother was deported to the Auschwitz concentration camp in 1943 and survived transfers between multiple concentration camps before liberation in 1945. My grandfather also survived imprisonment in multiple concentration camps after losing his first wife and children in the Holocaust. After the war, my grandparents met in a displaced persons camp in Austria, where my father was born. This history is a profound part of my family story, and informs how seriously I take issues of antisemitism and hate.

In responding to incidents like this, I believe schools have an important responsibility in two areas: discipline and education. There must be clear, consistent, and firm enforcement of the student code of conduct so that behavior is addressed appropriately and expectations are understood.

At the same time, we need to ensure that students are learning about respect and the impact of words and actions on others.

Situations like this are extremely difficult, especially in a school environment, involving children, and they underscore the importance of helping young people learn how to navigate disagreement, emotion, and accountability in constructive ways.

If voters elect me to the School Board, I would support continued emphasis on programming, education, and faculty development that emphasizes respect, understanding of the diversity of the Scarsdale community, and a strong sense of belonging for all students. I also believe it is essential that the administration, principals, and the School Board are very thoughtful and decisive when these incidents occur, communicate clearly to Scarsdale parents and the community at large, and work to bring the community together during challenging moments.

Ultimately, our goal should be to ensure that every student and family feels safe, respected, and valued, and that our schools remain a place where difficult issues are addressed with both firmness and care.

If you do serve, what are your hopes for the schools in the next six years?

During my time as the Quaker Ridge PTA President-Elect, the District developed the “Scarsdale High School Profile of a Graduate,” centered on five core attributes: Critical Thinker, Skillful Practitioner, Lifelong Learner, Compassionate Leader, and “Non-Sibi” Community Member

As a Board Member, I would use this profile as a benchmark, asking whether our current programs, curriculum, and student experiences at each level reflect those goals for how Scarsdale students develop from K-12, culminating in graduation from SHS.

I hope that we can continue to provide an excellent K-12 student experience grounded in strong academics, meaningful opportunities, and a supportive environment for every child.

Teaching and learning must evolve, responding to a changing world and also to community feedback. We must focus not only on what students know, but also on how they develop as critical independent thinkers who can collaborate with others, and make meaningful contributions to their community. We must carry out this work in a financially responsible, sustainable way while making appropriate investments in Scarsdale schools, so we can maintain educational excellence for the benefit of Scarsdale children for decades to come.