More than 300 education leaders, community partners and state and federal elected officials gathered at the Longwood Central School District in Middle Island for the 22nd Annual Longwood Regional Legislative Breakfast, one of Long Island’s longest-running education advocacy forums.
Representatives from more than 40 school districts joined policymakers for focused discussions on funding stability, legislative priorities and the policies shaping students’ futures.
“Each year we convene this regional conversation to model for our students the power of our great Democracy when educational advocates from across our communities unite to stand up for public education,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Lance Lohman. “This forum allows us to speak with one voice in advocating for the stable funding and thoughtful policy support required to provide every child with a high-quality, 21st-century education.”
Now in its 22nd year, the February event has become a regional institution, bringing educators and lawmakers together around a shared commitment to students and communities.
“This breakfast is one of the most productive and thoughtful conversations we have all year,” said Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano. “It brings together school leaders, board members, parents and students from across Long Island in one room to meet with their elected officials.”
The morning opened with performances by the Longwood Junior High School Chamber Orchestra and Vocal Quartet. Welcoming remarks followed from Dr. Lohman, New York State Board of Regents member Felicia Thomas-Williams, and Longwood Board of Education President Victoria Molloy and Vice President Daniel Tomaszewski.
Attendees paused to honor William K. Miller, a longtime Longwood Board of Education member and former vice president who served more than 24 years before his passing in December 2025. Miller championed student involvement on the Longwood Legislative Committee as full and equal members. Student representatives from William Floyd, Eastern Suffolk BOCES and Longwood addressed the audience, underscoring the impact of public education on their futures.
A featured presentation, “Stronger Together: Why Partnerships Matter,” included remarks from Molloy, Nassau-Suffolk School Boards Association Executive Director Bob Vecchio and Eastern Suffolk BOCES Chief Operating Officer David Wicks, highlighting cross-district collaboration.
Following legislator introductions, participants engaged in a closed question-and-answer session. Longwood High School senior Gabriella Hepp delivered closing remarks.