Recently I was watching some video's that I had taken of Joel conducting the Mineola Orchestra and Band back in 1995. My 2 sons were both taught by Joel and they have very fond memories of him still to this day. My son James is now an accomplished trombone player. Joel would have been very proud of him. I know he touched the hearts of all the kids he taught at Mineola Middle School

Joel was amazing friend ,mentor,  and director! He is going to be truly missed in the Brentwood community! Joel 's heart and soul  of kindness, warmth, caring and love , was truly amazing and will always be remembered!

Im a better man because of Joel Ratner.   Children were not something to shuffle through an imperfect system, they were to be reached and taught and nurtured.  Joel understood this.  The world wont be the same now that Dr. Joel Ratner has passed.  Thanks for touching Mineola Middle and High school alumnus.

Dear Jody, I'm so sorry to hear of the sudden loss of Joel. Although it's been many years since I have seen Joel, I remember what a warm, wonderful person he was.
I also remember what a warm, wonderful person you are.
Dave Rosler

I can't believe you're gone!!!!!!! You will be missed in Brentwood!!!!!

As a member of the Hofstra doctoral community with whom Joel was associated, I would like to add my condolences.  I knew Joel as a passionate educator and scholar.  His untimely passing reminds us of how precious every moment of life is and how profoundly we are able to influence the lives of students with whom we engage. I share the grief of his passing with his family at home and at school.  May he rest in peace.  Sincerely, Dr. Susan Fishbein

I can't begin to say what a loss Joel has been to so many.  His knowledge, compassion and understanding of children was beyond compare.  He was always warm, caring and shared freely of his time, and knowledge. His approach to those he did not agree with in Albany was no to be confrontationsal but rather to inform them of the unintended consequences of the their actions.  This spoke volumes about the person he was

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Joel Ratner

May 19, 1958 – February 23, 2015

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