Three Shining Stars Honored by SCOPE Education Services

The Longwood Board of Education, Superintendent Dr. Lohman, and Cabinet proudly recognized three outstanding members of our school community at the SCOPE 24th Annual “Shining Above the Rest” Awards Dinner, held on March 24, 2025. These individuals were honored for their outstanding contributions to education and the community. Congratulations to this year’s award recipients!
 

Board of Education Service – Victoria Molloy

Victoria Molloy, Board President, exemplifies leadership, dedication, and a deep commitment to the Longwood community. A lifelong resident and proud alumna,  she shares strong roots with her husband and two children, all Longwood graduates. Her leadership in education began with PTA involvement and service on the district Legislative, Budget, and Policy committees. Elected to the Board in 2017, Victoria is a passionate advocate for public education and is serving her second term as President. With 20 years of nursing experience and over a decade as Chief of Staff to a Brookhaven Town official, Victoria’s career reflects a lifelong commitment to service. Her many honors include two Lifetime Achievement Awards, the Golden Lion Award, and a "Woman of Distinction" by the NYS Assembly.
 

Teacher Service Award – Noel Calise, Speech-Language Pathologist and Assistive Technology Specialist

Noel Calise, a dedicated Speech-Language Pathologist, and Assistive Technology Specialist, is a compassionate professional who has transformed the lives of countless students. Her impact is exemplified through the support of a student who faced extraordinary challenges after a tragic accident. With limited educational options following rehabilitation, the student—living with quadriplegia—returned to Longwood thanks to Ms. Calise’s expertise. She guided the family in acquiring a Tobii Dynavox device, empowering the student to communicate, navigate her environment, and engage with the curriculum using eye-tracking technology. Today, this student thrives as an accomplished eighth grader. Her commitment extends to supporting visually impaired, dyslexic, and non-verbal students through cutting-edge tools and tailored accommodations that foster independence and learning. Her pursuit of excellence and dedication to student success make her an inspiration within our community.

Support Staff Award – John Ryan, Transportation Coordinator

Since joining Longwood in 2018 as school transportation coordinator, John Ryan has significantly enhanced the safety and efficiency of student transportation services. His leadership in passing the bus stop-arm camera legislation in 2019 has had a transformative impact, improving student safety across Suffolk County and showcasing his approach to addressing transportation challenges. Mr. Ryan actively contributes to the NY Association for Pupil Transportation, NY Association for Pupil Transportation - Suffolk Chapter, and the National Association for Pupil Transportation, where he shares his expertise and remains at the forefront of emerging best practices. With prior leadership roles at Half Hollow Hills School District and Suffolk County Department of Health’s Division of Services, John’s experience makes him deserving of the prestigious SCOPE Service Award.