Terrence Olivo, M-W school superintendent, to retire

Monroe-"He really put his heart and soul into his work and we are extremely proud of him. He's been extremely supportive of all of us and we think he's earned his right to retire," said Betty Olivo, wife of retiring Superintendent Terrence Olivo. Terrence Olivo has been an educator for a total of 38 years. He began his career in education as a History teacher and later served as the Assistant Superintendent of Schools in the Highland Central School District. He eventually took the helm as Superintendent of Schools for the Monroe-Woodbury Central School District, and has served in this role for 15 years. He looks at his retirement with mixed emotions. "I will miss the opportunity to interact with such a broad spectrum of people and a wide variety of issues. This is a great community. The school district is an important, if not fundamental, part of the community. I have appreciated the opportunity to be involved with such a wonderful district," he said. "I have also appreciated the strength of faculty and staff in the district." His faculty and staff have also appreciated him. "He will be greatly missed. I wish (him) the very best in retirement. He should enjoy the much deserved time off, especially with his favorite hobby of fishing," School District Clerk Eleanor Varian said. Dr. Lou Ciota, Assistant Superintendent of Instruction for Monroe-Woodbury, also shares this sentiment. He has worked with Terrence Olivo during his entire 25 year tenure in Monroe-Woodbury, and happens to be retiring the same day. "He (Mr. Olivo) definitely raised standards. The pursuit of excellence was obtained through his stewardship," Dr. Ciota said. "I hope to convince him to play some golf," he added. Several events were held to honor Olivo and to say good-bye. He was pleasantly surprised at the middle school when they dedicated the Courtyard Garden to him. "That really touched his heart," Betty Olivo said. He also enjoyed the company of his staff at a reception, and was honored at his retirement dinner. Although his decision to leave was a hard one, he's looking forward to spending time with his wife and their two children, Erin and Craig. "I enjoy fishing on my fishing boat," he said. This hobby also happens to be a family affair. "The whole family is looking forward to the opportunity to relax (with him) and spend some time on his hobbies. We all love to fish in Long Island," said Betty Olivo. But Olivo's retirement doesn't mean he's giving up his vocation completely. He'll enjoy the best of both worlds. "I expect to stay connected to public education through consulting work," he said. When asked for a final message he would like to leave for his students, Superintendent Olivo replied with the following statement. "Learning is a lifelong process. (They should) never consider themselves to be done with learning. In order to have a meaningful life, we must continue to grow through a lifetime." It is obvious that Terrence Olivo has a passion for the education and success of his students. He will not leave his position early, working through his last scheduled date of Aug.1, 2004. When that day comes he will be officially retired, at least until he gets home. "Of course I have a list of honey-do's that maybe he can finally get to," Betty declared. "I wonder if he ever learned that retirement and honey-do's were synonymous."