Dr. Edward Fergus and Dr. John Castanaro were sworn in last week as the newest members of the Yonkers Board of Education. As trustees, they will join seven other members of the board, which is the official policy-making body of Yonkers Public Schools. The new trustee appointments come as Edgar Santana vacates his seat and Pat Mondesando’s term expires.
“As we work toward providing our students with the best education possible, I am proud to appoint Dr. Fergus and Dr. Castanaro to the Board of Education as they bring unique perspectives as lifelong learners and educators,” said Mayor Mike Spano. “There is no doubt their experiences and knowledge are valuable assets to our district and our students.”
Fergus is associate professor of urban education at Temple University. He is a former high school teacher, program evaluator and community school program director. Fergus’ current work is on the intersection of educational policy and outcomes with a specific focus on black and Latino boys’ academic and social engagement outcomes, disproportionality in special education and suspensions, and school climate conditions.
He has published more than three dozen articles, book chapters, evaluation reports, and five books.
Fergus has worked with more than 65 school districts since 2004 on educational equity and school reform, specifically addressing disproportionality in special education and suspension. He has also served on various boards, including the New York State Governor’s Juvenile Justice Advisory Group (2010-present), the YPS Board of Education (2011-2013), and is an expert consultant for the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division on Educational Opportunities (2014-2016) and NAACP Legal Defense Fund (since 2018).
Fergus received a bachelor’s degree in political science and education from Beloit College and a doctorate in educational policy and social foundations from the University of Michigan. He has two children, one of whom attends Yonkers Middle/High School. “
“I look forward to supporting the continued educational progress made under the leadership of Superintendent Quezada,” said Fergus. “This progress is encouraging continued attention to what quality education needs to look like for Yonkers’ students.”
Castanaro joins the Board of Education serving as one of New York State’s top physicians in dentistry. With his own practice in Yonkers, he is also a member of Spano’s Health Advisory Board, which provides recommendations and information to residents for better health and well-being.
Castanaro has been an educator in the medical field, serving as a biology teacher’s assistant at the University at Buffalo, has taught dental screenings for George Washington Medical Associates, and currently serves as an attending for the Mt. Sinai dental residency program. Castanaro has also given of his talents to nonprofit organizations, including Tampico Mexico Outreach, performing comprehensive dental exams, restorations and extractions for orphaned children.
Castanaro received his doctor of dental surgery degree and his masters in biology from the University of Buffalo, and a bachelor of science in biology and bachelor of arts in philosophy from the University of Scranton.
“I am honored and enthusiastic to join the other members of the Board of Education in their commitment to promote opportunity and equal access to all Yonkers students in their pursuit of academic excellence,” he said.
Yonkers Board of Education President the Rev. Steve Lopez welcomed the new board members. “The trustees and I welcome Dr. Fergus and Dr. Castanaro and look forward to their contributions to the important work of our dynamic diverse board,” he said. “Both trustees bring valuable insight and significant experience, which will benefit our policy decisions and mission to provide the highest quality education for Yonkers children.”
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edwin Quezada, added: “It is an honor to welcome Trustees Dr. Fergus and Dr. Castanaro. Their perspective and knowledge regarding teaching, learning, health services and community engagement will enhance our work in schools and the central office. I appreciate Dr. Fergus’ words of support. Equity and access for all students is at the heart of my work for YPS students, staff and families.”
Both trustees’ terms begin immediately. Fergus will serve out the remainder of Santana’s term, through April 2020, while Castanaro will serve a new five-year term that runs through May 2024.
