Baldwin UFSD Celebrates 2025-2026 SCOPE Education Services “Shining Stars” Award Recipients
Three members of the Baldwin Union Free School District and community were recently recognized as 2025–2026 SCOPE Education Services “Shining Stars” award recipients. This year’s honorees from Baldwin include Ms. Michele Kourie, instructional support teacher and recipient of the Teacher Service Award; Ms. Mia Phillips, Baldwin High School PTSA president and recipient of the Community Service Award; and Mr. Russ Randazzo, director of facilities for Baldwin UFSD and recipient of the Administrator Service Award. They were selected for exemplifying excellence in education and community engagement.
“We are proud to see Ms. Michele Kourie, Ms. Mia Phillips, and Mr. Russ Randazzo among this year’s recipients of the SCOPE Education Services Awards,” said Mr. Anthony Mignella, Superintendent of the Baldwin Union Free School District. “All three individuals have had a positive impact on our schools and the greater Baldwin community, and this recognition is a testament to their outstanding contributions to the district’s overall success.”
Ms. Kourie, Ms. Phillips, and Mr. Randazzo were each honored for their outstanding service, leadership, and commitment to the Baldwin school community at the SCOPE Education Services 25th Annual School District Awards Dinner, held at Villa Lombardi’s in Holbrook, NY. In total, 192 individuals dedicated to education were recognized that evening across five categories: School Board Service, Community Service, Teacher Service, Support Staff Service, and Administrator Service.
About Baldwin UFSD’s “Shining Stars”
Ms. Michele Kourie – Teacher Service Award
Ms. Michele Kourie, Instructional Support Teacher for the Baldwin Union Free School District, exemplifies all the qualities of an extraordinary educator. She consistently goes above and beyond, partnering with administrators, teachers, and students to ensure the success of instructional initiatives using the latest technology. An experienced elementary teacher and now the instructional technology specialist for all five Baldwin elementary schools, Ms. Kourie brings a solid foundation in K-5 classroom instruction, lesson planning, and student-centered learning. She builds teacher confidence by promoting the purposeful use of technology to support deeper learning aligned with the district's future-driven curriculum. Additionally, she plays a critical role in professional development, facilitating high-quality training sessions tailored to the needs of elementary educators. Known for her calm and friendly demeanor, she is widely regarded as an invaluable resource.
Ms. Mia Phillips – Community Service Award
Ms. Mia Phillips has made an extraordinary impact on the Baldwin Union Free School District and community through years of dedicated volunteer service and leadership. A proud supporter of both athletic and academic programs, she has devoted countless hours to Booster Club, PTA, school, and community events, always stepping forward wherever help is needed. She previously served as Booster Club President, Lenox PTA Co-President and is the current Baldwin High School PTSA President as well as an active member of the PTA Council. Her leadership inspires volunteers, bolsters school spirit, and supports students through effective fundraising and advocacy. During her tenure as PTA Co-President, she helped Lenox Elementary School earn the National PTA School of Excellence designation. Her work reflects outstanding community service and an unwavering dedication to students.
Mr. Russ Randazzo – Administrator Service Award
Mr. Russ Randazzo, Director of Facilities, has dedicated nearly 35 years to the Baldwin Union Free School District, playing a vital role in ensuring safe, efficient, and future-ready facilities for the Baldwin community. A Baldwin High School graduate, Mr. Randazzo oversees district-wide operations, capital projects, facilities operations, safety compliance, emergency preparedness, and maintenance of multiple school buildings serving thousands of students and staff. Widely recognized for modernizing facilities management, Mr. Randazzo introduced technology- and AI-driven systems that improve efficiency, accountability, and safety. During major disasters and emergencies, including Hurricane Sandy and the COVID-19 pandemic, his steady leadership helped protect staff and students while preparing buildings for a safe reopening. Additionally, he currently serves as Vice President of the Nassau County Chapter of the School Facilities Association.