It is with the deepest sadness and extreme shock that we must inform you of the sudden and unexpected passing of Board of Education President Ernest J. Kight, Jr. We extend our heartfelt sympathy and utmost support to his family at this sad and difficult time. Mr. Kight was a beloved leader in our community who touched the lives of numerous students and families. His sudden passing is a loss to all who loved and knew him.
"Mr. Kight was a passionate educational leader with unwavering support for our students, schools and community. He has made a positive impact on generations of students and their families, along with all those who had the pleasure of working with him through our schools and on the Board of Education. Mr. Kight's love and support for his students, staff and the community was returned to him by all who knew him. I am honored to have known and worked with him and will truly miss him," Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham said. "His entire career was dedicated to helping others succeed. He will be remembered as someone who was committed to the Freeport students, families and the community. His untiring service to Freeport Public Schools as both an educator and a Board member has had a lifelong impact and contributes to his legacy. My profound condolences and support to his wife, Dr. Diane Mary Caruso, his family and those who mourn his loss."
Ernest Kight, Jr. graduated from Freeport High School in 1971 and was involved in education for 37 years. He began serving the Freeport Public Schools in 1975 and retired as an educator in 2012. Mr. Kight was a longtime educator and supporter of Freeport Public Schools, having dedicated himself to a career that spanned from student to teacher and girls basketball coach to assistant principal, to ultimately the principal of Freeport High School in 2009.
Ernest Kight, Jr. was a pioneer in high school sports, as well. In 1977, when he became the coach of the Freeport girls basketball team, he noted how few male educators were coaching girls teams throughout the state and encouraged more male educators to get involved. His combination of discipline and integrity turned the Freeport Lady Red Devils into a basketball powerhouse, bringing pride to the school district and the community. His value as a mentor to hundreds of young girls far surpassed anything that happened on the court. For his dedication and commitment, Mr. Kight was inducted into the Nassau County High School Athletics Hall of Fame.
Upon retirement, Mr. Kight continued as a supporter of public education and an advocate for students and the community by serving on the Freeport Public Schools Board of Education. He served on the Board of Education since 2015 and as Board President since 2019.
"His knowledge of education and school functioning made him an excellent board member who thoughtfully weighed the needs of students and families while being fiscally responsible," Board of Education Vice President Vilma I. Lancaster said. "Mr. Kight enthusiastically supported the academic and extra-curricular programs of Freeport Schools and was very involved in advocacy matters with policymakers. He was extremely proud of Freeport. His service on the Board of Education exemplified his willingness to actively support public education. He will be greatly missed."
