Motto: Our Heritage Inspires Excellence

________________________________________________________

​

Mission

​

* To preserve Irish Culture and Promote Contributions by Irish people to the United States of America and World Wide

 

* Recognize the accomplishments of Irish Americans in Education including those who promote the history and understanding of Irish contributions and Irish diaspora worldwide

 

* Encourage the teaching of the NYS Education Department Curriculum on the Great Irish Famine in all NYC Schools

 

* Celebrate Irish Diaspora

 

* Connect our membership with one another and with those of Irish descent or those who have a tangible connection or interest in Ireland and wish to establish a connection

 

* Facilitate a network for our members

 

* Celebrate our accomplishments

​

________________________________________________________

 

Vision​

​

To foster a supportive, inclusive community within the NYC Department of Education
that celebrates Irish heritage, uplifts educators and staff, and strengthens student
success through service, cultural pride and professional development, and meaningful
collaboration.

​

________________________________________________________

​

Core Values​

​

1. Heritage and Culture
   We honor and remote the rich traditions of Irish heritage, ensuring they remain a source of pride, unity and inspiration within the NYCDOE community.

2. Service to Students and Schools
   We are dedicated to advancing the educational mission of the NYCDOE by supporting students, educators and school communities through meaningful initiatives and outreach.

3. Integrity and Professionalism
   We uphold the highest ethical standards in our work, modeling responsibility, honesty, and respect for colleagues, families and students.

4. Equity and Inclusion
   We create a welcoming environment where all backgrounds are respected and where cultural celebration strengthens- not separates- our diverse NYCDOE workforce.

5. Community and Solidarity
   We support one another personally and professionally, building networks that encourage mentorship, collaboration, and mutual growth.

6. Leadership Development
   We empower members to develop as leaders - both within their schools and across the NYCDOE-by offering opportunities for learning, advocacy, and community engagement.

7. Stewardship and Legacy
   We strengthen the organization’s foundation s it continues to uplift future generations of educators, students, and Irish-American community members in New York City.

________________________________________________________

​

History

 

The Emerald Society of the New York City Board of Education was founded September 1, 1969 by Dr. Philip A. Bolger, Educator and Statistician, Institutional Review Board of the NYC Board of Education, John Carroll, Custodial Engineer, NYC Board of Education and Dennis Mitchell, Custodial Engineer, NYC Board of Education.

​

________________________________________________________​

​

NYCDOE Emerald Society Past Presidents 

​

John Reehill

Eileen Pryor

Mike Burke

Jackie Keane

Terry Egan

Bill Woods

Brian Bradley, Ed.D

Jeanne Bradley, Ed.D.

Donna McGuire​​​​

​