Congressman Josh Riley, who represents Ellenville as part of New York's 19th Congressional District, made a special visit to the Ellenville Central School District (ECSD) on March 23. He was welcomed by Superintendent Lisa Wiles; Deputy Superintendent Kelly White; Assistant Superintendent for Personnel and Curriculum and Instruction Support Scott Prokosch; Board President Phillip Mattracion; and Ellenville Junior/Senior High School students Caleb Norat and Henry Jones, who are fellows of the My Brother's Keeper (MBK) program.
After introductions, Caleb and Henry led Congressman Riley on a tour of Ellenville Elementary School, Ellenville Junior/Senior High School, and the Ellenville P-TECH Academy. Along the way, Congressman Riley greeted Elementary School Principal Nicole Ey, Junior/Senior High School Principal Carl Pabon, and Junior/Senior High School Instructional Supervisor Kerri Galloway. He also took time to speak with many teachers and students.
The tour included stops at the newly renovated Elementary School library and cafeteria, followed by visits to an ELA class with teacher Noelia Santiago and a P-TECH math and geometry class with Dawn Birnbaum.
The MBK students then guided Congressman Riley to the Junior/Senior High cafeteria, where he met advisor Frank Mulhern, along with additional student leaders from MBK and the Student Council. The tour concluded with light refreshments, during which Congressman Riley continued conversations with students and staff.
Congressman Riley's easygoing style made him an instant favorite among those he met. He listened attentively to students and showed genuine interest in their ideas and experiences. During the final reception, he also shared insights into his work in Washington and discussed several initiatives he is currently supporting.
Thank you to Congressman Riley for generously taking the time to visit and learn more about the ECSD!