Cindy McKenzie was appointed to complete the Milford School District Board of Education seat for Area C, vacated in July by Dr. Adam Brownstein. McKenzie was chosen from a pool of three applicants which also included Paul Hayes and Michael McKain.
Hayes, a former educator from Laurel, wanted to serve on the board to continue his love of teaching, something he had done since he was a Boy Scout. McKain, also a retired educator who currently works in educational leadership, told the board he could not promise to always agree with the current board.
“In fact, I’m quite sure that I will not, but I believe respectful debate, discussion, even of a passionate nature, is exactly how a democratic and representative bodies such as this are supposed to work,” McKain said. “I stand ready and willing to lend my viewpoints and perspectives to the important work this board must do in the weeks and months ahead.”
McKenzie, who retired as principal of Lulu Ross Elementary School, stated that she had spent her entire educational career in Milford School District.
“I believe the Milford school district to be an excellent district that values its teachers and the staff and is committed to providing our students and families with many educational opportunities,” McKenzie said. “Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to experience many changes in our Board of Education, and have always felt the people serving on our board have collaborated closely with the district administrators to provide our students and the community members with opportunities to grow academically and socially, policies have been jointly established to ensure that not only academic and social needs of students are met, but also safety concerns have been a priority as well. Having worked closely with many of our current administrators, I believe I can continue to be a collaborative partner. I would like to be able to support our district and help move us forward in a positive direction.”
There were no questions from the board for the applicants. Ashlee Connell made a motion, seconded by Butch Elzey, to appoint McKenzie. A roll call vote was unanimous with all board members approving the appointment of McKenzie.
McKenzie began her career in Milford as a fifth and sixth grade teacher at Milford Middle School. She transferred to Benjamin Banneker Elementary School where she taught first and second grade, then to Ross where she taught second and third grade. McKenzie was also a Basic Skills as well as a Gifted and Talented teacher. She served as Assistant Principal at Ross for two years before becoming Principal.
Earning her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Pittsburgh, McKenzie also earned her master’s in instruction from the University of Delaware. She earned a School Leadership Certification from Wilmington University. Her favorite subject to teach was science and she taught other teachers the use of curriculum kits from the Smithsonian and Foss while working with the Delaware Science Coalition.
McKenzie will serve on the board until June 20, 2026. At that time, she will need to run for re-election for the seat along with Scott Fitzgerald and Matt Bucher.
