PENFIELD, N.Y. — The outgoing president of the Penfield School Board is speaking out after a year marked by dissension and tension.

In an email to parents, Dr. Aaliyah El-Amin-Turner addressed the difficulties faced by the district’s superintendent, Dr. Tasha Porter. Dr. Porter is the first Black superintendent in Penfield, leading a predominantly white district.

“As the first Black superintendent in Penfield, leading a predominantly white district, some of the resistance directed toward her leadership reflects dynamics that cannot be ignored,” El-Amin-Turner said in the email.

“While professional disagreement is both appropriate and necessary in public service, it is equally important that we recognize how race, identity, and representation can shape experiences of leadership,” she added.

Read the full email from El-Amin-Turner:

“Dear Penfield Community,

As my term as President of the Penfield Board of Education comes to a close, I want to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to serve this community.

Serving on the Board of Education has been both an honor and a responsibility that I have never taken lightly. As a parent, educator, therapist, and community member, I have always believed that strong public schools are essential to strong communities. Every decision made during my tenure was guided by what was believed to be in the best interests of our students, staff, and District. This year brought important conversations, difficult decisions, and, at times, significant challenges. 

Leadership often requires navigating disagreement while remaining grounded in one’s values. Throughout those moments, my commitment to students, educational equity, and the well-being of our District never wavered. I am particularly honored to have served as the second Black female President of the Penfield Board of Education. Representation matters. Leadership matters. I hope that my service has demonstrated to our students that their voices, experiences, and aspirations belong in every space where decisions are made.

I also want to acknowledge something that deserves honest reflection. Dr. Tasha Potter has served this District while navigating challenges that extend beyond the ordinary demands of educational leadership. As the first Black superintendent in Penfield, leading a predominantly white district, some of the resistance directed toward her leadership reflects dynamics that cannot be ignored. While professional disagreement is both appropriate and necessary in public service, it is equally important that we recognize how race, identity, and representation can shape experiences of leadership.

Our community is strongest when we are willing to engage in these conversations honestly and thoughtfully. Meaningful conversations about leadership, equity, and belonging are not always easy, but they are necessary if we are to continue growing as a community and ensuring that all members feel seen, valued, and supported.

To our teachers, staff, and administrators: thank you for your unwavering dedication to our students and your commitment to excellence each day.

To our families and community members: thank you for your engagement, advocacy, and continued investment in our schools.

And to our students: continue to ask questions, lead with courage, and never allow others to define your potential.

While my service on the Board is ending, my commitment to this community and to public education continues. Leadership positions may change, but service remains.

Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving the Penfield community.

With gratitude,

Dr. El-Amin-Turner”

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