NEWBURGH – On Wednesday, Assemblymember Jonathan Jacobson (D-Newburgh) presented Dr. Roberto Padilla with an Assembly proclamation honoring the Newburgh City Enlarged School District (NECSD) Superintendent for his leadership and to mark his being named 2021 New York State Superintendent of the Year by the New York State Council of School Superintendents.
“The New York State Council of School Superintendents recognized what we here in the Newburgh Enlarged City School District knew all along,” said Jacobson. “Dr. Roberto Padilla is a person of exceptional leadership who never rests on his laurels and is always asking what he can do next for the students and families of his district.”
“As a proud graduate of this school district, I couldn’t be more pleased to see it in Dr. Padilla’s capable hands,” Jacobson continued. “From its free meal program to its efforts to bridge the digital divide, the superintendent and Board of Education are providing the leadership 21st-century students need.” 
“The COVID-19 pandemic has made this a lost year for too many. But the historic levels of education funding from President Biden’s American Rescue Act and the recently passed New York State budget make a significant commitment to our children and to New York’s future. I am confident that Dr. Padilla will make the most of this opportunity.”
Dr. Padilla said, “The Superintendent of the Year Award is a phenomenal achievement for Newburgh. This recognition is the result of a very dedicated and committed district with educators and support staff who consistently go above and beyond for the love of our scholars. We are fortunate to have Board of Education members who are stewards for our scholars who have ambitious goals and see those goals through.”
“Receiving a proclamation from Assemblyman Jacobson, a fellow NFA alumnus, adds to the celebration and pride of this achievement. It is a true honor. We know that when Assemblyman Jacobson advocates for our scholars in the state, he is doing so with the Goldback spirit,” Dr. Padilla concluded.
Jacobson presented the award outside NECSD offices with Board of Education members Carole Mineo (President), Phillip Howard (Vice-President), and Ramona Burton in attendance.
