…Mr. Vetro cared very deeply about the well-being of his students and the Hampton Bays community. He demonstrated a compassion and commitment to the student’s development of good character and their education…a dedicated professional who wanted the best for all students and staff…He always conducted himself in a professional manner and was available and accessible for anyone who needed to speak to him. I credit a great deal…to Mr. Vetro. It was his keen insight and belief in the good of children that made a big difference in developing a high level, effective program…I believe in and trust his good character.

– Dan Tomaszewski, Longwood BOE Pres./Alt. HS Principal

…The most important word I can think of to describe Frank is “Friend”. I cannot begin to describe to you the amount of times Frank’s generosity has moved me. A young middle school football player who could not afford cleats, he reached into his own pocket time and time again…Quietly to preserve the student’s dignity, he never did it for credit but because “it was for the kids”. He has had a profound impact on the lives of many students. Frank’s diligence, dedication, and sensitivity have helped countless students during difficult periods in their lives. He has helped keep youngsters in school, provided families with community contacts to help them deal with a variety of problems, and worked tirelessly to be there in times of need. I have been fortunate to have such a wonderful, caring friend and colleague…

– Marc Meyer, Hampton Bays Elementary School Principal

It takes a very skilled individual to discipline students and still engender their trust and respect…that has been his reputation.

-Joanne Loewenthal, Hampton Bays Superintendent

…A professional administrator who cared a great deal for the students and faculty members under his supervision. He worked hard to establish a collegial relationship that demonstrated care and empathy while holding staff members accountable in order to improve the quality of their performance. Students constantly developed meaningful relationships with Mr. Vetro based on his interactions with them. He disciplined them with respect, and often attended many extra-curricular events…Mr. Vetro went out of his way to establish positive relationships with parents and community members in order to gain their support for the improvement of the school system. He supported almost every fund raising event and participated in many others to attract support from students and parent…Mr. Vetro cares a great deal about the students and adults in his charge and strives to make a positive difference in them. There is no doubt in my mind that Frank is a great role model for his students. He roots for the underdog and creates an environment where all students are valued. By talking to parents and students, you will understand the magnitude of the impact he has made in the lives of so many.

– Nicholas Dyno, Superintendent of Southampton UFSD

…A leader whose first priority is always the students in his building. He spends a great deal of time supporting the school. He attends the majority of sporting events and all after-school activities. The students and staff hold Mr. Vetro in high regard. Mr. Vetro relates exceptionally well to his colleagues, staff, and the students. He has a friendly personality and is a delight to work with.

– Denise Romano, Hampton Bays Academic Dean of Students

…demonstrates organizational skills, academic preparedness, solid decision making ability, leadership, but most of all respect and a desire for all students to succeed. His open door policy to the students, faculty and community members of Hampton Bays has created a new, energized academic climate in the high school….Mr. Vetro is a man of high character, strong morals, with a heart of gold…His commitment to Hampton Bays High School, faculty, students, and all community members is unparalleled…During my teaching and administrative career spanning 35 years…I have known few administrators who have displayed the qualities that Mr. Vetro possesses…It is a pleasure to call him a friend.

– Daniel Nolan, HS Principal-Miller Place and Port Jefferson UFSD

…a terrific, intuitive young man whose honesty, ambition, and charm have touched me.

– Nan O’Connor Roys, Asst. Superintendent of Middle CSD.

…Frank, I love you and I’m praying for all of this to be resolved so you’ll be back with us. The kids spoke highly of you on Channel 12 and heard they had signs supporting you. If I can do anything for you, let me know.

– Marie Mulcahy, Hampton Bays board member

…Frank, thanks for everything you do. Your personality makes work a pleasure. 

-Jennifer Boyer, Hampton Bays board member

…You really are missed around here…People like you are just a presence that’s missed when they aren’t around…I am thinking about you. Take care of yourself…

-Denise Romano, Hampton Bays Academic Dean of Students

I had the pleasure of first meeting Frank Vetro when he was thirteen years old…It was Frank’s hard work, patience, mental attitude, and superior self-discipline that set him apart from the rest. Frank gave 100% of himself…and always displayed a willingness to help others who struggled…Frank is a loyal individual who is always willing to give back…He has continued to help students, adults, families, colleagues, and the entire educational community…He is one of the most likeable people I know…to know Frank is to know an individual who is impeccably honest, respected by all members of society, displays tremendous self-discipline, and is motivated to be a worthy citizen…

-Xristos Gaglias, Master Instructor-Dae Han Taekwondo School

…There is no doubt that his strength of character would speak volumes about the type of person that he is…He is one of those rare individuals who treats everyone as an equal…He listens and speaks to every individual with the same level of interest, concern, and respect…He approaches his job with an unadulterated, unpretentious, “roll up your sleeves and get dirty” kind of attitude. He gives the impression to students and teachers alike that he is another soldier in the trenches. He is as true and honest a person as you will meet; he does not put on airs, he does not try to be something that he isn’t. He does not try to impress; he does not have to because who he is, is impressive enough. There is nothing Mr. Vetro does that does not seem genuine- because if he doesn’t believe in something, he doesn’t bother.

Ingrained in his approach to administration and education, is a genuine concern for and sincere interest in the lives of his students. He attends an assortment of extra-curricular activities, including; athletic events, concerts, musicals, art shows, field trips, dances and fund raisers. He does not speak to students; he speaks with them, allowing their voices and interests to be the focal point of conversations. He naturally integrates the understanding of concerned big brother into his stern administrative style. He disseminates discipline with a tough love approach; leaving no doubt in the minds of his students that he is there for them, doing what he can to help them reach their fullest potential.

Though there are many examples of the compassion that Mr. Vetro brings to his role as building principal, there is one example in particular that illuminates the concern he has for his students. There is a sophomore in Hampton Bays… a struggling student, and what some may consider a lost soul.  Her father was killed in a car accident when she was three and she has lacked a positive male influence in her life since then. Mr. Vetro has made sure that she knows he cares. He attends her games, checks up on her in class, spends time after school playing paper football games and talking to her about what is going on in her life, he even shares peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with her at lunch. Mr. Vetro has taken time to make this student feel like she matters, he has provided a positive male role model that has been missing since her father passed away. He gets nothing out of this relationship but that is Mr. Vetro, he is not a “what have you done for me lately”, type of guy. He is a “what can I do for you today” kind of guy.

…to see him in action, as an administrator, educator, mentor, role model, big brother, or friend is to know that he is a gentleman who respects people, no matter their status. It is to know that he is a kind, compassionate human being. It is to know that he is someone who takes his role as mentor and shaper of young minds seriously. If the majority of the people in this world treated each other with the respect Frank Vetro shows for others both professionally and personally the world would be a much more civilized place.

-Virginia McGovern, Southampton School District

…Frank has earned the respect and trust of our faculty, staff, students, and parents. He has embraced the importance of being a leader. He is the first administrator at school and last to leave…He attends sporting events, concerts, art shows and fundraisers. He interacts with the students and is often times the only adult who speaks to the students about their interests…I worked very closely with Frank. He was very supportive…Frank never faltered, worked 24/7 to achieve his goal…The pressure was on, but he never wavered. Despite circumstances he was professional, dedicated, respectful, and always very considerate of my needs and my welfare. Frank is a fine young man whom I admire…He is kind, considerate and thoughtful. I am very proud of him and would be honored to call him my son.

– Patricia McGovern, Hampton Bays Computer TA/community member

it takes a special kind of person to earn the respect of all these different types of students. You not only earned their respect but you also gained their trust…It takes a similar strength of character to be able to unite a faculty as diverse as the one in Hampton Bays. All of us, from the old fashioned ones, to the jocks, to the intellectuals, to the free spirits can see the integrity and dedication with which you do your job. If there is one thing we can all agree on it is that you genuinely love what you do and truly care about the kids…The building surely is not the same without you. We all support you and keep you in our thoughts.

-Sara Holden, Hampton Bays English Teacher

…I want to thank you for all you’ve done…You’ve helped me out a lot as an administrator and a friend. You are great at what you do…You are an excellent administrator and even yet, a better friend!

-Tara Bowden, Hampton Bays Special Education Teacher

Dear Mr. Vetro- I would like to take the opportunity to thank you for all of your efforts and time spent with my children as well as all of the students in Hampton Bays. Your timely advice, continued support, and fair dealing with students is greatly appreciated…we recognize all the good you accomplished. We wish you continued success and will miss you should you not return. Please maintain your spirit and remember that your ability to relate to the children is a gift to be cherished and continued.

-Irma Herzog, Hampton Bays Community Member

…He has been the most sincere, loyal, and honest friend as well as colleague. Frank has always been a man of his word and students and teachers alike look to Frank for advice and guidance…He is an integral figure in my development as a person…Frank was inspiring because he was always so diligent and efficient. His professionalism was his outstanding trait. I always respected the way he presented himself at school…I respected his level headed approach to all situations and how admired he was by all of our fellow teachers. Frank Vetro is a man who is dedicated to serving the community and children. He is an excellent friend and role model to those who know him, and that is a long list of people.

-Gilda Schultz, Newfield High School Math Teacher

…A man of integrity and is extremely dedicated to his job. His quick ascent through the administrative ranks to become high school principal is indicative of his dependability and ability to deal with staff and public alike. Frank is an affable individual who can often be seen at school functions displaying a genuine interest in the well-being of students and staff.…I have been a teacher in Hampton Bays for 29 years and can state without reservation that he is one of the finest administrators I’ve had the pleasure of working with.

– James Arnone, Hampton Bays Elementary School Teacher

Frank is a diligent administrator…a global thinker; he sees the whole picture and does not make rash decisions. His attention to detail and tireless work ethic has earned the respect of this tightly knit community. Perhaps the most glowing tribute to Frank is his dedication to our students…This is a man who cares and that feeling is reciprocated.

-Pat McCormack, Hampton Bays Elementary Teacher/President Hampton Bays Teachers Association

…You don’t realize how much you care about a person until they are taken away from you…You mean a lot to a lot of people – and this whole incident has made that clear…you have friends who truly care about you- and will be here for you no matter what. None of us can imagine what you are going through…we want you to know you do not have to go through it alone. I know you are an intensely private person – but…you have fans on the sideline cheering you on- we are here to shoulder the pain any way that we can. Like Dyno said to me yesterday “If anybody can land on their feet, it’s Frankie”- we all believe that…take care of yourself and know that you are in all of our hearts and minds. The Baymen can’t wait to get their skipper back.

-Virginia McGovern, Southampton School District

…Professional and sincere…I have nothing but positive praise for him. My wife and I have welcomed him into our home on many occasions and will continue to do so. He has spent time with my family and I consider him to be a friend and a valuable asset to our district.

-Richard Berglin, Hampton Bays Elementary Teacher

Just a quick note to let you know…there are so many of us behind you, hopefully that will give you strength. We believe in you so stay strong, be positive, and know that we care.

-Tim and Sue Finnelly, Kim and Dave Steers, Hampton Bays community

Dear Frank…We have missed you. Can’t wait for you to come back to the building. As you may have guessed, there is a real lack of leadership…

-Roe Rea, Hampton Bays Teacher

Dear Frank, it is very important to know that at no time did we (myself or mom and dad) think that any of this could be true! On the contrary we are outraged and upset to know that in this day and age anybody can say anything about anyone and be “believed”. It’s a total croc of crap as far as we are concerned…You have our support!

-Lisa Marte, Hampton Bays Teacher

Our dealings have been both professional and positive.

-Carly Spezzacatena and Monica Lohr, Hampton Bays Parent Teacher Association Co-Presidents

…I hope you know how much I believe in you as a principal… I have spent the day thinking of you and wishing there was some way to let you know that many people are there for you.

-Roger Armstrong, Social Studies Teacher/Union Representative

…We are behind you. The kids at school want you back…they are saying wonderful things about you. Hang in there, remember we love you and we want you back. You are in my prayers and the prayers of many people.

-Patricia McGovern, Hampton Bays community member

…a quick note to let you know that I and my family are thinking about you. We support you…and are behind you 100% and our thoughts and prayers are with you…We miss you.

-Lisa Marte, Hampton Bays Teacher

Frank, hope you are hanging in there. This whole thing smells of a set up…You have only done good things for the students and staff here and we miss having you around. Take care, my prayers are with you.

-Rich Iannelli, Hampton Bays Science Teacher

I want to let you know how much you are missed here. A number of faculty and staff are asking about you and offering support…kids are wearing “Free Vetro” and “Bring Vetro back” t-shirts. Parents are asking me if there is anything they can do on your behalf. They support you and…appreciate all that you have done for their children. In all of my years I have never seen a showing of such support for a principal. Stay strong and positive. We are behind you.

-Grace McGuire, Hampton Bays Principal Secretary

Hi Frank, I just wanted to let you know that I was thinking of you and keeping you in my prayers. I have a great deal of respect for you and so do your workers and co-workers and students. I consider you a good administrator and enjoy working with you. I hope you are doing ok! I just wanted to tell you how much we all care about you.

-Loretta Cahill, Hampton Bays Personnel Secretary

I just wanted you know that I am behind you 100%…the staff and kids are really behind you and nobody believes the charges. If there’s anything I can do to help, please don’t hesitate to tell me. Hang in…John.

-John Goodman, Hampton Bays Special Education Teacher

…I wish you great luck and always enjoyed working with you. You have always been helpful and cooperative and a true professional.

-Anna Rojas, Hampton Bays Principal Secretary

I know him…I have had dealings with him regarding my sons, and I have known him to be a decent man…

-Ms. Vlahadamis, Hampton Bays community member

I’d like to let you know how you’ve effected my life. You were patient with an adolescent that felt rushed, compassionate to a teen who felt abused, intuitive to a young mind that was distressed. YOU proved to me that being a strong male role model was achievable without the need to possess someone or manipulate them. I was a confused youngster with no guidance to speak of further than that of the examples set forth for me from nightly TV programming. You supported my eccentricities, sought out there value, and convinced me and other teachers that that wasn’t a trait that made me an outsider. I was truly moved by your presence in my life during your tenure and the challenges you face daily, as I a father, a student, and now a man, view you not only as a mentor but a hero.

–      Adam Polins, Hampton Bays Student

Only people who know nothing of your character and who like to get caught up in hype would judge you based on ridiculous allegations. So many people have had the privilege of working with you or having you as a teacher or principal.

-Shannon Loetscher, Hampton Bays Student

I want you to know I wouldn’t have my diploma without your help let alone one of the top English 12 regent’s scores in the school if it weren’t for you.

-Shannon Loetscher- Hampton Bays Student

I’ve never had a better principal.

-Edison Blakaj, Hampton Bays Student

I miss you a lot and wish you were still our principal here. Hope everything works out for you…

-Genna Kovar, Hampton Bays Student

I think I turned out ok, would certainly say that you had quite an influence. You were very good to not just me but everyone, I’ll do whatever I can to help.

-Anthony Andrews, Hampton Bays Student

Mr. Vetro…To me you were the only principal that was actually a principal. I haven’t met a guy like you during my whole high school years or even the 5 years of college. You’re a good man…just hang in there. If you need anything or there is anything I can help with just let me know.

-Edin Blakaj, Hampton Bays Student

Thank you for everything…You always tried to keep me on the straight and narrow and give me good advice.  

-Lauryn Armusewics, Hampton Bays Student

I wouldn’t have been able to graduate high school if it wasn’t for you. Students would be lost without educators like you standing up and pulling for them. I will always be grateful for having you as my principal and for the understanding and compassionate person that you are. Thank you for always sticking up for me and fighting for me. My family and I will always remember how you had my back!

-Lauryn Armusewics, Hampton Bays Student

…I was a junior in your sophomore class at Floyd in 96-97. I left Floyd before the school year finished to move to Colorado. Anyway, I heard about what happened and for what it’s worth- just wanted to wish you the best of luck…I always thought you were an outstanding teacher.

-Joy Zuckerman, William Floyd High School Student

…He was loved by all his students…his passion for teaching was so strong you couldn’t help but want to learn…Mr. Vetro always wanted his students to succeed and would go out of his way to ensure they did. He was a positive role model and I am thankful I got to have him as a teacher.

-Danielle Luc, Newfield High School Student

Mr. Vetro maintained the authority of a teacher but had the presence of a friend. He was a young teacher when I was in his class. I’d guess he was in his 20’s and the short age gap made it easier to get along. He was never in a rush. He always made time to explain things and even if you found yourself in trouble, he’d spin your punishment into a joke. You almost wanted to thank him for detention. He’s a man I respect and hold in high regard.

The lessons I’ve taken away from him were never written in his lesson plan. He exemplified what it is to stand alone and be a person that others want to be. He didn’t have to try. It was a personality trait that he had on his own and one that I have tried to achieve. I can only hope other students were able to see beyond the words written on the blackboard and appreciate the true life lessons that he shared in his actions and stories.

-Bobby Gordon, Newfield High School Student