Derby Board of Education Member Recognized By CABE Board Member Academy

DERBY, CT — The Derby Board of Education recently announced Kenneth Marcucio, a board member since 2005, has been recognized by the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education (CABE) Board Member Academy for the 2024–2025 school year.

According to a news release provided by Derby Public Schools, Marcucio was one of only five Board of Education members statewide to be honored for this achievement, which "requires extensive participation in board-related professional development activities."

To attain the Master Board of Education Member designation, participants must first complete at least 20 credits to become a Certificated Board of Education Member, and then earn an additional 20 credits, according to the district.

Areas of study include leadership, effective meetings, school/community relations, strategic planning, group dynamics, board member ethics, school finance, labor relations and school law, according to the district.

"This recognition is a testimony to board member Marcucio's incredible commitment to his role," Superintendent of Schools Matthew Conway Jr. said in a news release, "and relentless drive to stay up to date, learn more, and go above and beyond to ensure our kids, our staff, and our families are receiving the best support possible to learn, grow, and excel in their own way."

In addition to his nearly two decades of service on the Derby Board of Education, Marcucio has been a lifelong educator and community leader, having served as a Derby High School business teacher for 36 years, district officials said.

Marcucio also led the community as the longtime president of Derby Little League and served as athletic director in Derby for 25 years, as well as an active member of the Connecticut Association of Athletic Directors for 40 years most of which he was the treasurer, expanding opportunities for youth athletics and student engagement, according to the district.

Marcucio earned his bachelor of science in business administration from Quinnipiac University and a master's degree in secondary education from the University of Bridgeport. His lifelong commitment to education, athletics, and community service has left a lasting impact on Derby families, district officials said.

"I have always felt as a teacher (36 years), and especially as a board member (20 years), that it was very important to gain as much knowledge as possible to help me succeed in both positions," Marcucio said in a news release. "CABE has always been an outlet to help me do this every year. Their in person and online workshops have always helped me to become a better teacher and board member. It has also, over the years, helped to make the Derby School System a known entity at CABE. Much thanks to CABE for all that they do."

The board extended its congratulations to Marcucio and thanked him for his decades of dedicated service to the Derby community.

"Mr. Marcucio is among the most engaged members that I have served with over the course of my 28 years on the Derby Board of Education," Board of Education Chairman Jim Gildea said in a news release. "He always takes the time to be the best member he can be, constantly improving as a board member and participating in all available learning opportunities. The Derby Board of Education is better because of his participation and representation. I consider it an honor to serve with him."