Roosevelt School District Honors Board President Rose Gietschier’s Retirement After 25 Years of Service

The Roosevelt Union Free School District proudly celebrates the distinguished retirement of Board of Education President Rose Gietschier, whose 25-year tenure as a tireless advocate and fervent leader has left an indelible mark on the Roosevelt community.

A respected and devoted leader, Mrs. Gietschier concluded her tenure during the Board’s annual reorganization meeting on July 1. She was succeeded by Belinda Monroe, who previously served as First Vice President.

District staff, students, community members, and local elected officials gathered on July 2 to recognize Mrs. Gietschier’s remarkable contributions during a heartfelt retirement celebration. The event included moving tributes, including student musical performances and a spirited routine from the Roosevelt High School Varsity cheerleaders.

“Rose Gietschier’s dedication, vision, and tireless advocacy shaped our schools and inspired lasting progress,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Shawn Wightman. “We are so thankful for her everlasting impact on our community and students and we wish her the best in her retirement.”

Mrs. Gietschier was first elected President of the Board of Education in May 2017, capping a 25-year legacy of service that includes roles as a community activist, programs coordinator, and PTSA president.

Under her leadership, the Board of Education soared to new heights and the District reached extraordinary milestones highlighting student success and overall achievement. Most notably, the Board of Education was recognized for the past two consecutive years as a National School Boards Association (NSBA) Magna Award winner.

This year, the District was lauded for its financial standing by receiving an Aa3 issuer rating from Moody’s Ratings, which designates Roosevelt as a school district whose investment is deemed in “high quality and very low risk.” The strong investment-grade rating will allow Roosevelt to benefit from lower borrowing costs for future capital projects, enhancing its ability to make necessary investments in the District's infrastructure and educational programs.

During Mrs. Gietchsier’s presidency, Roosevelt Middle School and Roosevelt High School reached the incredible achievements of being deemed in good standing and taken off the State's needs-improvement list.

New York State Senator Siela Bynoe and Nassau County Legislator Debra Mulé were among those who praised Mrs. Gietschier’s steadfast commitment and service at her retirement celebration. Both officials commended her enduring efforts to strengthen public education and build a brighter future for Roosevelt families.

“Rose’s commitment to the community is unparalleled, and she demonstrated it through her many years of dedication to the students, their families, and the staff of Roosevelt’s schools,” Legislator Mulé said. “We are all grateful for her steadfast leadership, and it was a privilege to wish my friend all the best in this new chapter of her life!”

The Roosevelt School District invites the community to follow its continued journey of excellence, inspired by leaders like Mrs. Gietschier, and congratulates Belinda Monroe on her new role as Board of Education President.

To learn more about the Roosevelt Union Free School District, please visit the District's website at https://www.rooseveltufsd.org. Happenings in the District can also be followed on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RooseveltUFSD.