East Massapequa Native Named Acting President At ERASE Racism

SYOSSET, NY — An East Massapequa native has been appointed acting president of Syosset-based ERASE Racism.

April Francis Taylor assumes the role, effectively immediately.

Taylor is an adjunct professor in the Hofstra University School of Education and in Stony Brook
University’s School of Professional Development. She also contributed to state-level education
initiatives, serving on task forces for New York State Education Department’s Culturally
Responsive Education Framework and the Seal of Civic Readiness.

Taylor has won awards throughout her career as an educator. She won the “Most Dedicated
Teacher” Award from the Uniondale School District in 2006, the “Partners in Education”
Award from Nassau BOCES in 2016, and the “Educator of the Year” Award from the Town
of Brookhaven in 2023. She has also taught in East Rockaway.

"I’m excited to take on this new leadership opportunity with such a distinguished civil rights
organization," Taylor said. "With the unwavering support of the dedicated Board,
administrative team, and community, we will continue ERASE Racism's mission together."

Beyond teaching and educational administration, April’s expertise spans policy
development, conflict resolution, leadership training, and regional collaboration.

“April brings to ERASE Racism a depth of experience advocating for and implementing programs
aimed at educational equity on Long Island and statewide,” said Kalpana Bhandarkar, Co-Chair
of ERASE Racism’s Board of Directors.