John Michael Karmozyn, left, stands with Supt. Michael Sollitto and School Committee Chairman Mark Brizard.
BURRILLVILLE – Members of the School Committee recognized John Michael Karmozyn at his final meeting as a member and vice chairman of the board last week, acknowledging his time in education and service to the community.
“He’s a man who spent his entire professional career – starting in 1974 – teaching and caring for our students,” said Chairman Mark Brizard. “He then went on to spend much of his retirement years making sure children continued to receive a good education as a member of the School Committee.”
Karmozyn, a longtime teacher in the Burrillville School District, was first elected to the Town Council following his retirement in 2006. He served on the board through 2010 and then was elected to the School Committee in 2012, securing a seat once again in 2016.
John Michael Karmozyn, left, stands with Supt. Michael Sollitto, center, and School Committee Chairman Mark Brizard.
He is currently completing the second year in a four-year term, but announced his resignation earlier this year, citing family obligations following the passing of his wife.
“I’m not usually a quitter, but when family has needs and they call you, you go,” said Karmozyn, noting that School Committee members do much more than just attend meetings. “A lot goes on in the background. A lot that the people don’t know about. You have to commit.”
Karmozyn is better known as “Mike,” as his father, John Sr., was well-known businessman in town and the owner of Johnny K’s. He has also served as a member of the Industrial Foundation of Burrillville.
His wife, Mary Karmozyn, who also served on the School Committee, died last year.
His resignation takes effect November 1.
Members thanked the educator for his service.
“It was a labor a love,” said Karmozyn. “It was an honor and a privilege to serve on this committee. What we’ve accomplished – and the committee prior – has just been amazing and I have been really happy and proud to be part of it.”
His departure from the board means that voters will be filling five open seats with the top vote-getters out of seven candidates during the town’s General Election on Tuesday, Nov. 6. Newcomers seeking a seek on the board include Victor Bevilacqua, Darcy Bouchard, Sean Bouzan and Terri Lacey. Seeking reelection are Donison Allen. Alexandria Leclair and Silvia St. Pierre.
Brizard acknowledged that Karmozyn’s legacy is a lifetime dedicated to service and education.
“We consider that to be a life well-spent in the service to the community that he loves. Thank you from all whom your life’s work has affected – children, parents and colleagues.”
