L to R: J. Gavallas, C. Phelan, K. Palomba, C. Faressa, K. Hosking, C. Rinaldi and Family, R. Makowski, A. Villanueva, C. Hillian, E. Lawton, and J. Malagutti. Cathie Rinaldi receives a 'Distinguished Service Award' for her service on the Board of Education.
Press Release
Title: Watertown Public School Announces Board Chair Resignation
Watertown, CT - July 26, 2022 - At a regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting yesterday, the Watertown Board of Education announced the official resignation of Mrs. Cathie Rinaldi, Board Chairperson of the Watertown Public schools effective July 22, 2022.
Mrs. Rinaldi served the Watertown BOE since December 2014, bringing a wide range of valuable insight and experience. Over the course of her seven and a half years on the Board of Education, she has made a lasting impression on the legacy of Watertown Public Schools. Mrs. Rinaldi always advocated for high educational standards, integrity and personal responsibility for our District. Her genuine care for the children and families of the Watertown community are demonstrated by her many years of commitment to the Board and countless volunteer hours at fundraising events, as an active PTO member, and a strong supporter of community/school initiatives.
Ms. Rinaldi demonstrated her dedication and commitment to the schools and community time and time again with her leadership as board chair this past year and as board secretary in years previous. “It was very important to Ms.Rinaldi that students, faculty and staff were the spotlight of our BOE meetings. She made it a point to celebrate the accomplishments and hard work of Watertown students and employees at as many meetings possible,” said Dr. Villanueva, Superintendent of Schools. The Board of Education as a governance body is integral to the success of a school district. The Board of Education dedicates countless hours to making WPS the best school system possible for the children of Watertown/Oakville and Ms. Rinaldi’s leadership of the board has been a cornerstone to the Watertown community this past year.
Mr. Rob Makowski, Vice Chair of the Board of Education said, “It has been my distinct honor and pleasure to serve with Mrs. Rinaldi for the last seven and a half years. Her steadfast commitment to integrity and transparency, while always putting our children at the center of every decision, is a foundational block that will continue to support the growth of our educational initiatives for years to come”.
Ms. Karen Hosking, Secretary of the Board of Education added, “I am going to miss Cathie’s insight and experience most of all. Her care and concern for our district and our children is unmatched. I have greatly appreciated her guidance and leadership. As a new member of the board, Cathie was always available for questions and to offer a listening ear. I hope now she can relax and enjoy her family, after giving so much time to our community”.
Ms. Rinaldi was born and raised in Watertown, CT and attended Watertown schools from K-12. Her children also attended the Watertown Public Schools and the Rinaldi family continues to play an active role in the community to positively impact the schools and children of Watertown/Oakville. Ms. Rinaldi has been a tremendous asset to the WPS and has helped the district take big strides forward over the years. Her calm and cheerful demeanor at Board of Education meetings will be missed by all.