NEW ROCHELLE, NY (May 8, 2025) — Five candidates with varied backgrounds in education, law, engineering, and finance are vying for two available seats on the New Rochelle Board of Education in the upcoming May 20 election.
Ballot Order
- Elana Jacob
- Dr. Rosa Rivera-McCutchen
- Myriam Decime
- Jessica Klein
- Keith Singletary, CPA
Photo & Bio
1. Elana Jacob, a Senior Counsel at American Express and mother of three, highlights her legal expertise and community involvement. A graduate of Cardozo Law School and Cornell University, Jacob has lived in New Rochelle with her family, who are active members of Beth El Synagogue Center. Her oldest child attends Davis Elementary School.
“We enjoy participating in New Rochelle’s many offerings,” Jacob noted, referencing local programs like YBNR and library events.
2. Dr. Rosa Rivera-McCutchen, a professor at Hunter College CUNY with over 20 years in education, moved to New Rochelle in 2012 for its diverse community and quality schools. With a doctorate from New York University, she has taught in the Bronx and advocated for students through PTAs and Board of Education meetings. Her three children have attended New Rochelle schools, with one graduating in 2022.
3. Myriam Decime, a lifelong New Rochelle resident and Chemical Engineer with over 25 years of corporate experience, emphasizes her deep community ties. A graduate of the local school district with a 90.3 average, Decime has served as the PTAC Representative for the Lincoln Ave. Attendance Zone PTA and former NAACP Education Chair. She organizes bus trips to the largest HBCU College Fair in the Northeast, helping students secure scholarships and network with recruiters.
“Running for the BOE is just another avenue to continue to contribute to New Rochelle, my hometown that helped shape me,” Decime said.
4. Jessica Klein, an educator with over 30 years of teaching experience, focuses on fostering inclusive environments. Holding a Master of Education from Lesley University and a Certificate in School Leadership from Harvard, Klein serves as Associate Director of Westchester Summer Day, leading curriculum development. A 23-year resident, she has raised two children in New Rochelle and volunteers with the NEABPD’s Family Connections program.
“I am deeply committed to supporting educators and helping every child reach their full potential,” Klein said.
5. Keith Singletary, a Certified Public Accountant with 25 years of experience, underscores his financial expertise and volunteer work. A 12-year resident, Singletary has two daughters in New Rochelle schools and has served on the Ward PTA Audit Committee and as Educational Liaison for the Westchester Clubmen’s Higher Aims program
“I look forward to bringing my dedication to public education and deep experience in financial management to the Board,” Singletary said.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, based on the candidates’ biographies were provided by themselves or their campaign literature under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.