Yonkers Remembers Elaine Shine

Elaine Shine

It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Elaine Shine, the Executive Director of School Improvement for the Yonkers City School District. Elaine was a dedicated educational leader and advocate who touched the lives of countless students, teachers, and community members.

Elaine’s sudden and untimely death has left the community in mourning. She was known for her passion for education and her unwavering commitment to improving the quality of education for all students in the Yonkers City School District. Her leadership and vision have had a lasting impact on the district, and her loss will be deeply felt by all who knew her.

As the news of Elaine’s passing spreads, tributes are pouring in from colleagues, friends, and students who were inspired by her dedication and tireless advocacy for education. She was a true champion for students, always putting their needs first and working tirelessly to ensure that they had access to the best possible education.

Elaine’s death is a great loss to the Yonkers community and to the field of education as a whole. Her passion, dedication, and leadership will be sorely missed, but her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched and the positive changes she brought about in the Yonkers City School District.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Elaine’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. May she rest in peace knowing that her work has made a lasting impact on the lives of so many.

“It is with deep sadness that I share the news of the passing of our dear colleague, Ms. Elaine Shine,” schools superintendent Anibal Soler Jr. said in a letter to colleagues. “Unlike many of you, I have not had the privilege of knowing Elaine for very long. However, I am fortunate enough to be surrounded by people touched by her presence. I have heard countless stories about her incredible warmth and kindness. I even heard anecdotal stories about whenever she spoke with someone, no matter how busy her day was, she made them feel like the most important person in the world. That speaks volumes about her character and the legacy she leaves behind.”

Another commented, “Ms. Shine was a FIXTURE. in the Yonkers Public Schools.She started as an ESL teacher (2001) and was elevated to Executive Director of School Improvement for the School System. Saying she will be missed is an understatement. I watched Ms. Shine work until 8pm in an office, even when she was sick; she STILL came in to work. She will be missed…HARD!!! Ms. Shine started the MBK Academy. Ms. Shine rarely complained but was quite fiesty, if she liked you! She ALWAYS wanted you to work if she believed you were for the children. “

Eric Schoen said, “Elaine Shine always had a smile on her face. She was dedicated to the success of every Yonkers Public Schools student. She spent many hours beyond the normal work day planning initiatives. To help district students succeed. She was one of a kind and will be sorely missed by all members of the Yonkers Public Schools family.”

Shiine passed on July 31 at the age of 60.

Viewing will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2024 from 8:30 – 9:30 A.M. in Hodder Farenga Funeral Home, 899 McLean Avenue, Yonkers, NY

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, August 3, 2024 at 10:00 A.M. in St. Paul the Apostle Church, Yonkers, NY

Interment will follow in St. Raymond Cemetery, Bronx, NY.

God Bless and thank you for your service.