In honor of School Board Recognition Week, the Harborfields Central School District praised its dedicated Board of Education during the Oct. 19 meeting.
“The seven individuals that we have in front of us have chosen to step up for their community to serve,” Superintendent Dr. Rory Manning said. “I’m thankful that I get to work with each of these seven dedicated professionals each day throughout the school year. So tonight, I join the students, staff, our community and schools across the nation in thanking our school boards for their past, present and future service to our students.”
Dr. Manning presented each of the Board members – President Christopher Kelly, Vice President Susan Broderick, Dr. Eve Meltzer-Krief, Hansen Lee, Suzie Lustig, David Steinberg and Colleen Wolcott – with a certificate from the New York State School Boards Association.
Next, Oldfield Middle School language teacher Kacey O’Brien was recognized for her quick action in September in responding to a choking student by successfully performing the Heimlich maneuver.
“On behalf of the Board of Education, who express their utmost appreciation and gratitude to Ms. O’Brien for her heroic action, we thank her so much for stepping up that day and jumping into action,” Dr. Manning said.
Jillian Bemiss, now a third grader at Thomas J. Lahey Elementary School, was recognized for being selected as the winner of Washington Drive Primary School’s annual ceiling tile contest. Last year, second graders at Washington Drive were challenged to illustrate a picture that best represents the theme of “Growing Together.” Bemiss’ artwork will be displayed permanently on one of the ceiling tiles at Washington Drive’s main hallway.
“Jillian’s remarkable drawing beautifully captured the essence of Washington Drive’s learning community and how Washington Drive collaborates and grows as a school,” Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Danielle DeLorenzo said. “This illustration showcases Jillian’s artistic talent and deep understanding of the Washington Drive values.”
Next, Harborfields High School students Erin Armstrong, Allison Blosser, McKenzie Coleman, Jackson Ferrara, Kate Lysaght, Nolan Means and Samuel Sosnick were honored for their achievement in being named Commended Students in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program.
“It’s not just an accomplishment, it’s a testament to their unwavering dedication, tireless work ethic and consistent academic excellence,” Dr. DeLorenzo said. “These seven students embody the spirit of hard work and achievement, and we couldn’t be proud of prouder of their remarkable journey.”
Lastly, Harborfields High School art teacher Jeanie Ritter was recognized for being selected by the National Art Education Association as its Featured Art Educator for September 2023.
“This revered organization, the NAEA, champions the cause of art education and creativity,” Dr. DeLorenzo said. “We celebrate Mrs. Ritter’s well-deserved spotlight.”
Date Added: 10/23/2023