David S. Feller

Superintendent
North Merrick UFSD

David Feller, a Long Island educator for more than 30 years, is a respected and admired leader in general and special education, school safety, and fiscal oversight. Under his leadership, North Merrick has been identified as a New York State Reward School District for modeling best practices for schools in need of support.

As Superintendent, Mr. Feller has worked closely with the North Merrick faculty to strengthen the elementary academic program, and to improve the district's arts, wellness, technology and character education programs. He initiated a comprehensive co-teaching model in each school, and transformed the district's theatre arts program into an inclusive arts experience for all students. He also established the Superintendent's Challenge art and essay competition, for which he reviews each submission personally.

Mr. Feller is a staunch proponent of school safety. In his role as President of the Nassau County Council of School Superintendents, he founded (and currently chairs) the Superintendents School Safety Committee, which meets regularly with the Nassau County Police Chief to foster increased collaboration, strengthen communication and improve safety drills. Building on his good work with the committee, Mr. Feller developed exceptional school safety protocols in North Merrick, which have been recognized by governmental agencies across Long Island as models of school safety. As a result, he has been called upon to lead safety meetings and trainings throughout Nassau County.

A passionate advocate of Special Education, Mr. Feller was named 2010 Person of the Year by the Long Island Association of Special Education Administrators. He is the Founder and former Chairperson of the Nassau County Superintendents Special Education Committee and is a champion for the continuation of the residential treatment program at Sagamore Children's Psychiatric Center.

"David Feller is recognized as a thoughtful and fair leader, whose experience, intelligence and insightfulness inspire fellow educators, community members and civic dignitaries," wrote his award nominator. "Even in the most challenging circumstances, Mr. Feller believes that through establishing, cultivating and maintaining positive relationships, anything can be accomplished. North Merrick is truly fortunate to have this gifted educator, who is the embodiment of character, responsibility, honesty and integrity."