Fried Receives Warm Send Off from MUFSD

The close of this school year marked the end of Superintendent Dr. Paul Fried's Mamaroneck career—but the district didn't see him off without honors, a reception and many thanks.

Mamaroneck High School's library was crowded with Fried's appreciative colleagues, family and friends Thursday evening. And Fried—who acted as Mamaroneck Schools Superintendent from 2005-2010—was given a proper send off. Fried will begin a superintendency in Montville, New Jersey this July.

The reception began with brief speeches from Fried's coworkers and staff. Fried was seated in the front row, flanked by his wife and children.

"Under his leadership, the district's culture has become more inclusive, collaborative and transparent," said Linnet Tse, president of the Mamaroneck School Board.

"Paul [Fried] catered to the needs of our youngest learners and disadvantaged students his first day at the district," she added.

School officials and friends of Fried took turns at the podium, lauding his work and dedication to the school district. Assistant Superintendent Annie Ward spoke on behalf of Central School.

"Paul Fried is a servant-leader," she said. "He is consistently and tirelessly aiding the district." 

Ann Borsellino, president of the Mamaroneck Teachers Association, noted her and Fried did not always see eye-to-eye, but he continually kept the kids' best interests at heart.

"We've weathered bomb scares, April floods and EpiPens," Borsellino said. "And you always listened to me and did what you could."

Praise for Fried was not limited to school staff and administors—local and state government officials were also present. Town Supervisor Valerie O'Keeffe noted that June 11, 2010, will officially be Paul Fried day in the Town and Village of Mamaroneck and Village of Larchmont.

"He's a wonderful person, educational leader and innovator," O'Keeffe said.

New York State Assemblyman George Lattimer also made an appearance.

"Paul [Fried] has done a brilliant job with our kids," he said.

The evening also included performances by the Mamaroneck High School String Ensemble and Swing Choir, and hors d'oeuvres and cake.

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Patch had a few moments with Dr. Fried at the close of the reception to discuss his accomplishments and memories with Mamaroneck and his plans for the future:

Patch: Can you speak to your biggest accomplishments while Superintendent?

Fried: I think it's been building relationships and trust and solving problems. And the goal setting process, too. It's really brought teaching and learning along, and it's one that involves our principals and teachers and moves the learning process forward.

Patch: Any particularly memorable moments?

Fried: Some of the most memorable moments are the difficult times, like the flooding in Mamaroneck in April. We opened up our gymnasium to hundreds of people, and people were actually living with us for two weeks.

Watching our student performances on so many levels—our band and orchestra, or athletic teams, too. And watching the entire school system grow together has been memorable.

Patch: And your plans for the future?

Fried: I'm working in Montville, New Jersey. I have a superintendency there that begins July 1. I'll be commuting; my family lives in Ossining and we love it there. My children would divorce us if they had to leave their schools.