BOE Election 2025
May 2025 Board of Education Election
There are two seats open for the Board of Education, currently held by Denise Caunitz and Terrence Cortelli. Mrs. Caunitz has informed the District that she will be seeking re-election; Mr. Cortelli has decided not to seek re-election. The term commences on July 1, 2025 and runs through June 30, 2028. Three candidates will be running for these two positions: Denise Caunitz, Michele Bosco and Patricia Reilly.
Denise Caunitz
Residence and Family: District resident for 47 years with three children attending Pearl River High School (grade 9), Pearl River Middle School (grade 6) and Franklin Avenue Elementary School (grade 2)
Education: M.Ed. from Mercy College, B.A. from Manhattanville College, graduate of Pearl River High School and St. Margaret of Antioch School
Career: Elementary Education Teacher in the South Orangetown School District
Community Involvement: Vice President of the PRSD Board of Education, Vice President/Girls Softball Coach for Pearl River Little League
Mission: "As I seek re-election, my dedication to our schools and our community is strong. I believe in the power of partnership — when educators, staff, administration and families come together, there's nothing we can't achieve. Together, we can create schools that ignite curiosity, drive innovation, and open doors of opportunity for every single student. Let's keep building a future where all children can thrive. "
Michele Bosco
Community Involvement: Volunteered with Team KJ in honor of Kara Jean Fleming to help fight Huntington's Disease (2010-2015), served on the Pearl River Swim Club Board for five years, past member of the Nauraushaun Nursery School Board
Mission: "Family and community are very important to me and I am ready to give back and volunteer my time to the Pearl River community. Accountability and transparency are two things we need more of."
Patricia Reilly
Career: Orangetown Pediatrics Association (2014-present), Maria Ferrari Children's Hospital (2010-2014/2001-2003), New York-Presbyterian Hospital (2003-2010)
Community Involvement: Evans Park PTA, PRMS PTA, PRHS PTSA, PRSD COVID Re-Entry, PRSD DEI Task Force, PRHS Attack Club President, Project Graduation, St. Aeden's Church CYO Coach
Mission: "I hope to join the BOE to continue the vision of our Superintendent to maintain academic excellence in the PRSD and provide a platform for all students to excel in life as adults."