South Huntington BOE member wins President's Award

On Board Online • September 21, 2020

By Sal Prividera
Special Correspondent

Edward J. Nitkewicz, an 11-year member of the South Huntington Board of Education on Long Island and long-time advocate for children with special needs, has been named the 2020 winner of NYSSBA President's Award.

The President's Award recognizes individuals or organizations that have made significant contributions toward the betterment of public education in New York State. Nitkewicz will be honored in a virtual presentation accessible from the dashboard of the 2020 Annual Convention & Education Expo, which will be held online in October.

Nitkewicz began his work as an advocate for children with special needs more than 20 years ago when his son, Edward, was diagnosed with autism. An attorney, he has represented families in special education meetings, hearings and litigation. He has lectured on how parents can work with school districts to obtain services for children.

"Ed is the culmination of everything you think a good school board member and dad should be," said Fred Langstaff, NYSSBA president. "His deep devotion to ensuring that all students with disabilities have the opportunity to excel in the public school system is a shining example for all of us as school board members."

The South Huntington Union Free School District said in a statement that Nitkewicz brings "a sense of stability and reassurance to the community . Special education is the cornerstone of Mr. Nitkewicz's heart and soul; his commitment and dedication will long be remembered by countless parents."

Outside of the education setting he has served with a number of community organizations focused on helping children with autism and other special needs. He has been active in raising funds for a number of these organizations including serving as chair for the Autism Speaks Walk on Long Island and chair of the fundraising committee for the Cody Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities at Stony Brook University.

Nitkewicz has also published a number of essays on parenting children with special needs that have appeared in Exceptional Parent Magazine and other publications.

A partner and senior trial attorney at Paul J. Ajlouny & Associates, Nitkewicz's practice includes personal injury law, education law and other areas.