Oceanside Superintendent Dr. Phyllis Harrington Inaugurated as President of NYSCOSS

July 1, 2021 

Congratulations to Dr. Phyllis Harrington, superintendent of the Oceanside Union Free School District who will serve as President of NYSCOSS during the 2021-2022 school year. She presented her inaugural address on June 29, 2021 at the annual Summer Event in Cooperstown, NY. 

Dr. Harrington has been a superintendent since 2004. She first served for 9 years in the Oyster Bay-East Norwich School District before taking the reigns in Oceanside in 2013. She said, "Serving as a leader of an educational institution as a superintendent of schools is truly a ride of lifetime! Despite the challenges and the constant ebb and flow, there is joy to be found in the faces of children everyday." 

In addition, to serving on the Executive Committee, she has been involved with other Council committees including the Curriculum and Assessment, Conference Committee and Snapshot Committees. She is also one of two superintendent representatives on the New York State Teachers' Retirement System Board since 2010.

She said that this position "has allowed me her to maintain a fiduciary responsibility to the system while looking out for all issues that impact school districts and superintendents." She indicated that it has been a huge point of pride in her career. 

Dr. Harrington also explained, "Over the course of my superintendency, I have always found The Council to be a source of support, guidance and inspiration. The opportunities to engage in collaborative and collegial activities are endless. Mentors, coaches, confidantes, and friends are all to be gained. I am truly honored to be leading this outstanding professional organization alongside an amazing Council staff who serve as a constant source of assistance. I am looking forward to a fabulous year!"

You can hear from Dr. Harrington next at our opening keynote at the 2021 Fall Leadership Summit: The Ride of Lifetime on Sunday, September 26, 2021 in Saratoga Springs, NY.