The Panel for Education Policy has a new go-to man from the Bronx.
Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. selected Robert Powell as the borough’s representative to panel, which reviews and votes on city Department of Education issues.
He is one of 13 members on the panel, which also includes Schools Chancellor Dennis Walcott and a number of mayoral appointees.
The panel is currently dealing with several issues, including a potential strike by yellow school bus drivers at the start of 2013, policy surrounding sibling-preference for gifted and talented programs, and point-of-entry for kindergarten programs.
“Robert Powell is dedicated to the growth and well-being of our borough’s public school system, and has shown a strong commitment to the children of this borough and this city during his many years of service,” said Diaz. “I look forward to working with him to continue our work in developing a strong agenda for the future success of our public school system.”
Each borough president gets one appointment to the PEP, with the rest of the members appointed by the mayor.
Powell, who replaces former Bronx representative Wilfredo Pagan, hails from Wakefield and is the parent of six children in the New York City public school system.
He is the former parent association president at Lehman High School.
He also served as parent association president of a District 75 school for four years.
He was both co-president and president of the Bronx High School Federation from 2008 to 2011.
Powell also served on the Citywide Council on High Schools, serving as recording secretary from 2010 until his appointment to the PEP. The CCHS is an advisory board providing input and comment to the chancellor and PEP regarding public school needs.
“I’m very happy to represent the Bronx on the Panel for Educational policy,” said Powell. “I look forward to working with the parents, educators and our students to improve our public schools, and I thank Borough President Diaz for this amazing opportunity.”
Powell has 30 years experience in financial information and communications, and currently works for Thompson-Reuters.
Patrick Rocchio can be reach via e-mail at procchio@cnglocal.com or by phone at (718) 742-3393
