Departing School Committee Members Honored by Colleagues

Departing School Committee members Robert E. Skerry, Jr., Lena DiGiantommaso, William Brady, and Alfred Pompeo, Sr., were honored by their colleagues during their last meeting Monday night. Pictured above from left: Assistant School Superintendent Beverly Nelson, Mayor Michael McGlynn, Brady, Paulette Van der Kloot, Skerry, Ann Marie Cugno, Pompeo, and School Superintendent Roy Belson.

– Allison Goldsberry

Four retiring School Committee members were honored by their colleagues during the last meeting of their careers on Monday night.

Combined, Robert E. Skerry, Jr., William Brady, Lena DiGiantommaso, and Alfred Pompeo, Sr. have served 78 years on the Medford School Committee.

Throughout their decades of service on the School Committee, Brady, DiGiantommaso, Pompeo, and Skerry were involved in many major events, such as the building of the new schools and the selection of three school superintendents, including current School Superintendent Roy Belson.

Superintendent Belson said their experience demonstrated a “history of public service to education” in Medford and that he valued each member’s opinion.

Superintendent Belson, Mayor Michael McGlynn, and School Committee members Ann Marie Cugno and Paulette Van der Kloot recalled their experiences working with the departing veterans.

“This is a bittersweet moment because we’ve served very long with our colleagues,” said Van der Kloot, who, along with Cugno, choked back tears.

Belson said DiGiantommaso read “every word we sent her” and “always told me what was on her mind.”

“She was always speaking for someone who needed a voice,” said Belson.

“I have to give her credit. Whe she has something on her mind she is honest…she is straightforward,” said Cugno, who attended school in Medford with DiGiantommaso’s daughter.

Superintendent Belson said Skerry “was always there for young people” and brought his perspectives as a former teacher and coach to the School Committee.

Mayor McGlynn said no other family in Medford has given more political and public service to the city than the Skerry’s.

Belson said Pompeo has been a mentor to many, including himself. The School Superintendent first met Pompeo as a high school student. Pompeo was Belson’s guidance counselor and wrote college letters of recommendation for him.

Each of Pompeo’s colleagues called him a true gentleman, and Cugno said he was like a grandfather to her. McGlynn said he considered Pompeo a brother and that he “enlightened the community with his knowledge.”

Belson praised Brady for “close-guarding the budget” and giving school employees a voice. Mayor McGlynn said Brady would probably be remembered for fighting for air-conditioning in the new schools.

Mayor McGlynn thanked the departing members for their years of service.

“I congratulate each and every one of your for your service…you really have done a tremendous amount in changing the face of education in this community,” said Mayor McGlynn.

The departing members had a few words for the incoming members.

“Every vote you make…remember this is for the children,” said Brady.

“Be ever watchful of the taxpayers’ dollars,” said Skerry.

Pompeo, 91, spent ten years on the School Committee and also served as mayor. He said he enjoyed his time on the committee.

“I’ve enjoyed my years here…I’m going to miss coming down here…it has been good fun,” said Pompeo.