Locust Valley Board Of Education Trustee Resigns, Calls Out Board

LOCUST VALLEY, NY — Locust Valley Central School District Board of Education Trustee Lauren Themis resigned, sharing a statement on Facebook as a glimpse into what could have led to her resignation.

In her statement posted on Wednesday, she shared that she resigns effective immediately, concluding six years, two terms, of service.

"I am grateful to those who entrusted me with this responsibility and allowed me to serve on behalf of our children," she wrote. "During my tenure, I worked tirelessly to support student health and wellbeing, improve school lunches, increase recess, reduce technology in the elementary grades, strengthen foundational academics, expand technical education, protect medical privacy, guide the district through the pandemic, and most recently, lead efforts opposing state-mandated regionalization that threatened our district’s autonomy. Above all, I sought to return our schools to common-sense education rooted in academics, civics, and love of country, consistent with my deeply held values."

Explaining her decision, Themis wrote:

"Unfortunately, based on my experience, the actions and decisions of certain Board members and administrators left me with no alternative but to resign. As I raised concerns related to transparency, governance, academic accountability, spending, Title IX, and ideological programming, I experienced increasing hostility that extended beyond Board business and affected my family life and volunteer service. No volunteer elected official should be placed in such a position, and I could not continue without compromising my morals or values."

She concluded her statement by saying that she will not abandon her principles, and her heart remains hopeful for Locust Valley– her lifelong community.

When asked for a comment on Themis' resignation, the LVCSD Board of Education responded to Patch with a statement:

"The Locust Valley Central School District Board of Education acknowledges the resignation of Lauren Themis and thanks her for her service during her tenure.

The Board remains fully committed to its work on behalf of all students, staff, and the broader school community. We look forward to focusing on our priorities to help strengthen academic and athletic excellence, ensure honest, transparent, and ethical governance, and maintain high fidelity to the District’s mission, policies, and long-term strategic goals.

Working in partnership with our administration, educators, families, and community stakeholders, the Board will continue to provide thoughtful leadership and oversight to support student achievement, well-being, and opportunities for success, both in and out of the classroom."