David Derynoski, a 34-year veteran of the Southington Board of Education, is the unanimous choice to receive the prestigious “Distinguished Democrat of the Year, “award for 2023.
Mr. Derynoski has fulfilled many roles on the Southington Board of Education. Dave served multiple terms as chairman of the board of education. As chairman, he advocated for school building upgrades throughout the district. He has served on five school building committees. Throughout his decades of service, David has served as a mentor to new members by providing guidance and helping create a smooth transition for new Board of Education members. Dave worked with many administrations over the years, understanding the importance of advancing technology for staff and students, his record is unmatched while serving on district technology advisory board. Dave also served on the town wide charter revision commission. Dave has always maintained that Politics should be kept out of educational decisions, putting families and students first.
While Mr. Derynoski has served an impressive 33 years on the Board of Education, his uncle, Walter Derynoski, who Derynoski Elementary School is named after, served for 41 years. The Derynoski family is rooted in public service. Dave’s daughter, Dawn Anastasio is presently serving along with her father, as secretary of the board of education.
Throughout the challenges of life, Dave has always been a hardworking, dedicated member of the board of education. Dave has also balanced his volunteer career with being employed in the dynamic career of aerospace, defense, and industrial markets for decades.
Longtime board member, Zaya Oshana said, “Dave is commiited to doing what is right for the student and our community, without regards to politics, and I am proud to serve with him.”
Lisa Cammuso former Board of Education member and current candidate stated,
“Having served with Dave on the Board of Education, I witnessed first-hand his breadth of knowledge, along with his dedication to serve the town of Southington, always keeping students’ best interest in mind.”
Edward Pocock III, Town Council candidate and former Board of Education member said, “I remember joining the board of Ed in 1993, and serving with David, I was lucky enough as a young, elected board member to be seated next to him. He taught me the value of inclusion and consensus building. Our family loves the Derynoski’ s and are proud to see him get this award. “
“As a board member, David has embraced the democratic values of respecting staff, understanding that teaching is a hard job, and Dave’s desire to help all, shows his commitment that Southington’s education system be one of the best in the state, “said Terri Carmody.
Annie Wellington, candidate for Board of Education said, “Dave Derynoski is a dedicated servant and leader who has brought consistency and collaboration to the Board of education for over thirty years; I am honored to be on the same team with him and learn from his experience.
Bob Brown, who was a history teacher while Dave was a Board of Education member then joined him on the board. “Dave has been a solid BOE member for over 30 year. He continues a long family tradition of service to the town he has spent his life living in and raising his family.”
“Mr. Derynoski is the perfect choice for Southington Democratic this year. Dave Derynoski represents the level of dedication that is imperative to serving on the Board of Education and our students benefit from his dedication and expertise, “ Erin Cowles concluded.
