From the Hastings-on-Hudson school district…

Dear Hastings Community Member:

At the June 2, 2008 Board of Education meeting, Board Trustee Eva Neubauer Alligood announced her resignation, effective June 30, 2008.  The Board then began discussing the best way to fill the vacated seat.  In accordance with New York State Education Law, the Board could hold a special election, leave the seat vacant until the next election, or appoint someone to serve until the next election.  After weighing the pros and cons of each option available, the Board reached a consensus on the most prudent way to move forward.

At its June 16, 2008 meeting, the Board of Education of the Hastings-on-Hudson Union Free School District voted unanimously to appoint Donna Laing as a Board Trustee.

A resident of Hastings for the past 12 years, Donna holds a BA in Economics from Harvard University and a MBA in Accounting from Columbia University.  She has been an active member of the PTSA, serving as treasurer since 1997 and co-chair of the Used Book Fair for the last 9 years.  She also volunteered on numerous theatrical productions in the district and regularly attends parent liaison meetings.

“It came apparent very early on in the process that Donna would be the ideal choice,” said Eric Sweeting, Board of Education President.  “Donna has a good understanding of the budget process given her financial background and oversight of the PTSA budget.”

Donna Laing’s term will begin upon taking the Oath of Office during the July 8th Board of Education Reorganization Meeting, and she will serve until May 19, 2009, the date of the next scheduled school board election.