New Assistant Principal at Burr Intermediate School In Commack

Donna Forbes

 By Brenda Lentsch

The Commack Board of Education appointed Donna Forbes as the new assistant principal at Burr Intermediate School, beginning on August 19, 2013. Mrs. Forbes is a respected leader and educator in the Commack School District and the District’s lead reading teacher in grades K-5 since 2003. She is an enthusiastic teacher and mentor, and an outstanding educator who truly understands how to unlock the potential for learning in each child.

An established innovator in instructional reading methods, Mrs. Forbes excels at reaching each student in her classes, and training her colleagues to do so by implementing effective learning strategies. She was Commack’s 2012 Teacher of the Year, and received many awards and accolades throughout her career, including the PTA Honorary Life Award.  “Donna is an enthusiastic educator, and her positive spirit is contagious,” said Dr. Donald James, Superintendent of Commack Schools. “She instills a love of learning and reading in her students, and is focused on each child’s educational success. Donna’s work this year included the development of Common Core ELA Curriculum, differentiated instruction models, and using data as both formative and summative assessments. She will be an asset to Burr’s students and staff, as well as continuing to be a positive force as an innovator in the District.”

Mrs. Forbes graduated Magna Cum Laude in Elementary and Special Education from SUNY Geneseo, earned a Masters in Reading Education from Hofstra University, and received a Certificate of Advanced Study – School Administrator and Supervisor from the College of St. Rose. She is a Wilson Language Trainer for the Wilson Reading System and supported the primary teachers in the Fundations K-2 program. Always willing to go the extra mile for a student or colleague, Donna spends endless hours researching ways to be more effective in the classroom.

Donna and her husband Jim live in Northport and are the proud parents of three grown children. Donna “thoroughly enjoys reading for pleasure” with her book club, enjoys spending time with family and friends, and volunteers on various committees at her church, including playing in the Jubilate Handbell Choir.

“I am really looking forward to my new role at Burr,” Mrs. Forbes said. “It’s a real privilege to work at a school where the positive and enthusiastic atmosphere exemplifies our joint commitment to educational excellence. I am also thrilled to continue to work in a school where the purpose of our outstanding teachers, staff, principal, and parents is to meet the needs of every Burr student in a safe, caring, and exceptional learning environment.”