June 2009

Dear Cottage Lane Parents:

Due to my retirement, this will be my final Cottage Lane Express correspondence to you as principal of Cottage Lane Elementary School. Words cannot describe how much your support has meant to me over the past eight years. I have always felt that you are an integral part of the Cottage Lane family. Many accomplishments could not have come about without your involvement. Your greatest gift to me was being with your children everyday. They have made me proud on so many occasions. When I inform my colleagues outside of South Orangetown of all the different types of activities my students are involved in, they marvel at all we can do. A major reason for this are the core values your children exhibit day in and day out – respect, responsibility, cooperation, and compassion. They are very, very special!! They have even helped me grow as a person. You are to be congratulated on a job well done! I have also been very fortunate to have had the tremendous support of a truly dedicated staff whose concern for your child’s learning is amazing.

My final thoughts to you are to spend as much time with your child as possible. Your time with them is so precious. Don’t allow life’s many challenges keep you from spending time with your child as a top priority. They grow up so fast. I can remember, as if it were yesterday, the time I walked my daughter into nursery school for the first time. This past May she graduated from college. Before you know it, they are young men and women – this is why you have to cherish each moment.

With warmest affection, thank you again for a wonderful journey. It was a privilege and a memorable experience being your child’s principal.

Peace and happiness,



Michael Fiorentino