We hear from Boys Varsity Soccer coaches John DiGiacomo and Brian Karcz that the team out swam the Lindenhurst Bulldogs yesterday (Thursday 9/10) to the score of 2-0. Facing difficult weather, the Wildcats pulled together and got the job done. Michael Lorello got the team on the board with a direct kick in the 54th minute. He then added an insurance goal to seal the victory minutes later. Jonathan Consolo, Fabrizio Chamorro, and Blake Aronson helped control the midfield.
The Wildcats once again played stout defense in front of Austin Salas who made 3 saves to preserve his second shutout in as many games. The team is currently 2-0 and ranked #8 in the state. The Wildcats are back on the road on Wednesday night at Copiague at 6:30 p.m. Come and support the team at their first home game next Friday versus Northport at 4:45 p.m.
9/7 post:
The Boys Varsity Soccer Team kicked off their season with a 1-0 win over perennial Catholic League powerhouse St. John the Baptist on Saturday. Michael Lorello netted the game winner for the Wildcats in the 28th minute off a rebound shot by Witman Hernandez. Blake Aronson, Eduardo Alfaro, Noel Reyes, and Bobby Cerrito anchored the defense in front of Austin Salas who made 3 saves for the shutout. The team is currently ranked 11th in the state. The team opens up their League II schedule on Thursday, 9/10 at Lindenhurst. Come support the Wildcats at their first home game on Friday, 9/18 at 4:45 p.m. versus Northport.
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Boys Soccer Ranked #8 in State
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9-11 Reflections from Superintendent Bennardo
It is difficult to believe that 14 years have passed since the September 11, 2001 attack upon our nation. It is equally surreal to consider that each year brings an increasing number of young people for whom this anniversary represents a distant date in history, rather than the moment when life in America actually stood still. I'm not sure whether it is the increased gray in our temples, or additional wrinkle lines in our foreheads, but as the years fly by, something compels our generation to safeguard the legacy of that fateful day. While our contemporaries will undoubtedly recall exactly where they were as the calm of the crystal clear September morning was shattered and our nation forever transformed, the real enduring lesson is found in the heroism and unity that 9-11 engendered. Although there is no denying the horrible pictures of destruction and unthinkable images of human loss, there is also a crystal clear memory of unquestioned bravery and genuine sacrifice.
From the ashes of fallen buildings and burning planes emerged a feeling of unity that galvanized Americans like no time since the bombing of Pearl Harbor. It is simply impossible to forget the vision of first responders charging into danger to save the lives of people they had never met, or thousands of ordinary citizens lined up to give blood, donate food for rescuers, or simply offer prayers to community members in need. And who can forget the sweet voices of schoolchildren across the country singing God Bless America, or the priceless pictures of Republicans, Democrats, conservatives, and liberals standing side-by-side reciting the Pledge of Allegiance before the waving Stars and Stripes. For me, the take away lesson from 9-11 is that the things that bind our people will always be stronger than issues that divide us. While those that wish to do us harm might misinterpret our spirited discourse as a lack of national will, our robust debate is in fact a sign of our individual and collective freedoms. The fact is that the "better angels in our national soul" will always shine through in our country's hour of maximum need. We are at our very best when the way of life we embrace is challenged by forces outside our national family. We might squabble amongst ourselves, but the "wagons are always circled" in unbreakable unity when our fundamental values are challenged by those who underestimate our resolve.
So what better way to recognize this 9-11 anniversary than by loving our families, serving our communities, and giving thanks for a Nation that still serves as a beacon of freedom for people across the globe.
Be well, Dave Bennardo
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Solemn Ceremonies Open Schools in South Huntington
Schools in South Huntington took a moment today, as each building remembers in their own way, those who made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as the families whose lives were forever changed on September 11, 2001.
This morning, all of the students, faculty, and staff at Oakwood Primary Center gathered outside of their school for a 9-11-memorial ceremony. Ms. Herrera's Dual Language class held the flag and led the children in the Pledge of Allegiance. Principal Kerrigan, with the assistance of head custodian Chris Stevens, demonstrated the raising of the flag and then lowered it to half-mast and explained the significance of that action. Ms. Pinelli’s students did a fantastic job leading the audience in singing patriotic songs.
Over at Countrywood, the 9-11 ceremony was moved indoors due to the threat of more rain as staff and students came to school wearing red, white, and blue. Family members participated by joining the children in their classrooms. Principal Barbara Kenney delivered a message to the school community via microphone. She talked about the American flag at half-staff and while all of the children and teachers listened from their classrooms, they saluted the flag and held a moment of silence.
Music teacher, Mr. Slawitsky invited second grade students from Ms. DiNorcia, Ms. Kapps/Mr. Cardella, and Ms. Rabideau classes to join him in the All Purpose Room to assist him in leading the school community in this special ceremony. In unison, they sang a medley of patriotic songs, which could be heard throughout the building. Songs included “America,” “This Land is Your Land,” “You’re A Grand Old Flag,” and “God Bless America.” “To all those affected we can only offer our heartfelt thoughts and prayers,” said Countrywood Principal Ms. Barbara Kenney. “We can promise to honor the memory of their fallen relatives by loving our families, taking care of our communities, and cherishing our country.”
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BACK-TO-SCHOOL HACKATHON- Early Registration Opens for South Huntington Students
This January, one hundred students, ages 13-18, from around Long Island are invited to converge on our South Huntington Union Free School District to take part in an exciting and innovative event being delivered by “We Connect the Dots,” an educational, nonprofit organization that creates STEAM learning opportunities for students around the world.
The event, called the Back-to-School Hackathon, is a consecutive forty-eight hour competitive gamified learning experience that teaches students how to code in HTML5. “We Connect the Dots” has partnered with Microsoft to incorporate Microsoft Azure Solutions Platform to store students projects. Students will work in teams of four to compete for prizes and to see who can develop the best project in the given time, while learning valuable computer science skills that can be used outside of the classroom later in life.
South Huntington students, ages 13-18, can get a jump on securing a coveted spot for what promises to be an unforgettable and valuable experience.
South Huntington students should use the following link to register:
https://buildingsteam.we-connect-the-dots.org/huntington-station/events/south-huntington-ufsd-back-to-school-hackathon/e57433
Registration for the general public opens on September 15, 2015.
To register use the ‘Become a Fundraiser’ tab and begin your opportunity to be involved with the first 48-hour Hackathon on Long Island. Need help fundraising? Don’t worry, we have corporate sponsors willing to assist you, just contact Whitman’s College and Career Ready Coach, Rob Callahan at: rcallahan@shufsd.org
Computer science courses are where careers of the future will be firmly rooted. Students who leave high school with knowledge in computer programming, coding, and development have a competitive advantage over their peers, and an inroad into successful careers in the workforce of the future.
On hand will be partners from the technology industry who will be delivering the instruction, valuable talks about the future of tech careers, and coaching for students. Microsoft, one such supporter, has offered members of its Developer Experience (DX) Team to provide the students with insight to the work of a developer in one of the largest companies in the industry.
Students who attend the event in South Huntington may also have the opportunity to work with students around the world, as “We Connect the Dots” is currently coordinating with schools across the U.S. and abroad to deliver simultaneous events in multiple locations. The Back-to-School Hackathon promises to be an innovative educational program for students interested in learning more about coding and future careers.
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Stuff-A-Bus Stops in South Huntington
The spirit of community service continued in full force this past week as the generous members of the United Way teamed up with Huntington Coach and volunteers from Capital One Bank to donate a busload of school supplies for our South Huntington children. There was a special feeling of cooperation in the air at Stimson Middle School as students from the National Honor Society and Student Government formed a human assembly line to unload the countless boxes of school bags, books, markers, writing tablets, pencils, pens, and more that filled the full-size bus. “We are so very fortunate to have these community partners who join us in the special mission of educating our South Huntington children,” said Superintendent Bennardo. A special thanks to Barbara Burke, VP, Resource Development for United Way. “Our Partnership with United Way continues to be a valuable resource to students in our district. The school supplies will be distributed to our school social workers to share with students in need." said Deputy Superintendent Jacci Harris.
The district would also like to thank the following contributing partners and sponsors: Transportation Services Inc., Educational Bus Transportation Inc., MSC Industrial Direct, Inc., Newsday Media Group, Raymour & Flanigan, Make It Count Foundation, randstad USA, ClearVision Optical, THE BOXERY.COM, and The Garden City Group.
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NYSSMA Awards All-State to Four Whitman Students
“We are proud to announce that four of our Walt Whitman High School students have been named all-state musicians by the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA),” said Superintendent Dave Bennardo.
Congratulations to Whitman seniors Derek Lap - Alto-Saxophone - Instrumental Jazz Ensemble; Brittany White - Trumpet - All-State Symphonic Band; and Alex Dermody - Soprano II - Mixed Chorus. We are also very proud to announce that Whitman junior Samuel Hoffman was also awarded NYSSMA All-State as a Tenor II - Mixed Chorus. “This remarkable honor, reserved for only the finest performers in the state, places our students among an elite group of talented young musicians,” added Bennardo.
Our four emerging stars will now perform with their groups at the NYSSMA All-State Conference in Rochester from December 3 to 6. Please join in congratulating our award-winning musicians, as well as the dedicated directors—Mr. Deitz, Mr. Altinel, and Mr. Yolango—who nurture their talents. We also join in thanking the parents of all our musicians for supporting and promoting the arts in their homes.
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School District Supporters
Please join us in supporting our new supporters of the weekly newsletter from Superintendent Bennardo
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NYS Educator of Excellence at Silas Wood
Congratulations Stephanie Brown, a South Huntington 6th grade teacher and Common Core Coach, who will be receiving an Educator of Excellence Award from the New York State English Council conference in October.“Having the opportunity to be the ELA Common Core Coach has allowed me an opportunity to take on leadership roles within the school and the district, while at the same time maintaining my passion for teaching and learning in the classroom,” said Ms. Brown.“Stephanie Brown is a valued educator who looks at the "whole child" with a sense of understanding,” said Silas Wood Principal Stephen Toto. “She holds them to high academic expectations and challenges and encourages them to be the best students they can be.”
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Records Break Amid Strong Season
Great news from coach Karen Schmitt. The Varsity Field Hockey team won their 4th game of the season Wednesday afternoon, maintaining their undefeated status. Now 3-0 in Division I, Whitman beat Connetquot 3-2 in overtime. With 6:01 left in overtime, Whitman earned a corner. Kerry Conlon inserted the ball to Amanda Glaser who made a direct shot on goal. Christina LoFaso tipped the ball in to the top of the net securing the win. The first two Whitman goals were scored by Kelly Baumann and Amanda Glaser with assists by Kerry Conlon and Christina LoFaso. It was a great team effort. Whitman faces undefeated Northport Thursday 9/17. The Connetquot win came on the heels of the 4-1 win over Lindenhurst last Friday.
The Boys Varsity Soccer Team rolled Copiague by the score of 5-0 on Wednesday night (9/16). Blake Aronson got the Wildcats on the board with a 25 yard shot off a pass from Jon Consolo in the 6th minute. Witman Hernandez netted 2 goals, while Kevin Hererra and Anthony Palazzolo each tallied their first Varsity goals. Olvin Dominguez added 2 assists and Michael Lorello added one. Austin Salas and Marc DePasquale combined to make 4 saves to preserve the shutout. With the win, the Wildcats' record stands at 3-0 and has earned them a #2 ranking in New York State. Please come out and support the team at their first home game Friday 9/18 at 4:45pm versus rival Northport.
Coach Steve Greco is happy to report that Whitman’s Girls Varsity Volleyball defeated Hills West last Friday in a great 5 set match, coming back from a 2 sets to 1 deficit and trailing 9-1 in the 4th set. The team played hard all night and rallied together to come back and win 25-22 in the 5th set. The team was led by two single game record performances. Senior Outside Hitter Emma Kongevold set the single game program record with 27 kills and Junior Setter Olivia Poplawski set the single game program record with 46 assists. Emma added 14 digs and 5 blocks, Junior Libero Lauren Civello added 23 digs and Junior Middle Jess Young added 8 kills and 7 blocks. The team played great together for the win.
The Varsity Girls Tennis team lost a nail biter on Wednesday evening to Kings Park 4-3. In singles play, Kayla Soulias dominated her opponent winning in 2 sets 7-5, 6-2. In doubles action, Christina Bogdani and Emma Coleman beat their opponents 8-6, 3-6, and 6-3. Julia Ballontine and Sabrina Greenberg defeated their opponents in straight sets 6-1, 6-1.
Please come support the girls as they play Northport today at 4pm here at Whitman and Friday home against Huntington at 4 pm.
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Champions and Stars Highlight Birchwood Pep Rally
Birchwood held its annual Academic Pep Rally during the week of September 8-11th. This year’s motivational video theme was “Champions and Stars.” Students and staff celebrated education by focusing on how everyone’s future is unlimited and by taking on the challenges of today, and by digging a little deeper, we can be amazing.
Teachers read the book, “What Do You Do With An Idea?” by Kobi Yamadato to their students. This is the story of a brilliant idea and the young child who helps to bring it into the world. As the child's confidence grows, so does the idea itself. And then, one day, something amazing happens.
Birchwood students and teachers then brainstormed ideas on how to be successful at Birchwood this year. To follow-up and build on the theme of “Champions and Stars” each classroom used a light bulb template to organize their plan for success. Another special highlight of the week was a visit from the Whitman Varsity Competitive Dance Team, as well as a dance performance by Birchwood’s very own staff. It was a great week and was accomplished with the fine work of the amazing Birchwood staff.
Congratulations to Birchwood’s finest dancers: Sarah Friedman, Ian “the Wildcat” Denson, Jackie Patino, Ilisa Guittard, Alicia Bucari, Tracey Maddy, Christine Sepe, Melissa Marando, Jasmery Polanco, Lauren Yonce, Elizabeth Weis, Caitlin Bishop, Jill Okurowski, Erin Kessler, Melissa Vultaggio, Carolyn Crofton, Yadigar Saglam, Linda Stauder, Jessica Flinn, Dolores Rufrano, Jen Provda, and Kristin Lally.
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Message from Dr. Bennardo Regarding Maplewood
Hi All
I just wanted to let everyone know that a little while ago we had a problem with several individuals riding motorbikes through outdoor recess at Maplewood. The individuals, who were dressed in typical riding gear and helmets, did not respond to the custodian's request to leave the grounds. Instead, they turned their bikes and rode through the recess fields. While no one was hurt and no contact made, the seriousness of the incident caused a recess paraprofessional to immediately call the police. We are concerned with this incident which might coincide with previous motorbike activity on our grounds (usuallyduring the evening hours).
We are working with the police in an effort to identify these individuals and of course prosecute to the fullest extent of the law. We are also increasing our vigilance on the grounds during recess to ensure that the motorbike riders pose no danger to our students or staff. Dr. D’Elia has sent a phone message to MW parents and we will also be reaching out to the community in the hopes of garnering information regarding the identity of these riders.
Thanks and be well.
Dave Bennardo
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Having a Blast at SHEF's Family Fun Day
The South Huntington Educational Foundation (SHEF) held their 12th annual family fun day under a picture perfect sky on Sunday, September 6th and the community came out for a great afternoon on grounds of West Hills Day Camp. With over 400 in attendance, families spread out over the campgrounds and enjoyed; the West Hills nature center, swings, sports of all kinds, playgrounds for every age, heated pools and the hugely popular giant water slide. Everyone enjoyed salads, watermelon, soft drinks, hot dogs, and hamburgers.
This was the third year that an entertainment stage was in place for many local groups to perform. Thank you Carlo Giordano and his staff at Walt Whitman High School for setting up and dismantling the stage. The event kept a full slate of performers busy all afternoon delighting the audience. Also back from last year was a vendor’s row with locally made items as well as professional services. This fundraiser helps SHEF purchase many items not in the school budget that help support a quality educational experience for the children in the South Huntington School District. This past year SHEF purchased zSpace, a 3-D interactive virtual learning environment that consists of 14 high definition workstations that uses glasses and a stylus to create an immersive educational experience.
The ever-popular dunk tank featured: Sue Cirillo, Edwin Smith, Allison Bruno, Dave Bennardo, Jim Kaden, John Murphy, Steve Toto, Vito D'Elia, Dennis Callahan, Anthony Ciccarelli, Janice Reichert-Emprimo, and Karissa Tomeo.
SHEF would like to thank the community for their incredible support in making this day very special.
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Wildcat Sports Updates
We hear from varsity coach Mike Patto that the Boys Volleyball team beat Center Moriches by a score of 3-0 last night. Waris Barakzai (photo) had 7 kills, 2 blocks and 1 dig. Freshman Jack Poplowski had 7 kills, 4 aces, and 4 digs. Christian Corbett had 1 kill, 1 ace, and 16 digs. Jack Beyel sealed the deal in the 3rd set giving the boys a promising 2-1 start to their season.
Coach Rory Sherman tells us that the Girls Varsity Tennis team battled Northport last night in a league II matchup. Leading the charge for Whitman was senior Tina O'Donnell winning her match in straight sets 7-5, 6-1. Shailee Patel (photo) showed-off her groundstrokes dominating her opponent and winning in straight sets 6-3, 6-2.
All doubles teams played extremely well. Julia Ballontine and Casey Gilmartin lost a nail-biter, narrowly missing a victory...please come support the girls as they play Huntington at home today at 4pm.
Varsity Gymnastics Coach Angela Gunsel is happy to report that the team had its first meet of the season this past Tuesday defeating Copiague by an intense 1 point. Outstanding performers were Danielle Harris who took 1st place on the Vault and 2nd place on the balance beam, Olivia Zakarin took 1st place on the floor exercise and Ariana Weindling took 3rd place on the floor exercise. The entire team had a great first meet. Congratulations girls!
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"The Circuit" is Inspirational
Francisco Jimenez knows full well the hardships, as well as the opportunities, that many of our Mexican and Central American immigrants find here in America. As a child he worked in the fields of California under deplorable conditions, but his family knew the value of education and today, Dr. Jimenez is an esteemed author and director of the Ethnic Studies Program at Santa Clara University in California.
On the other side of the county, at Stimson Middle School, many of the students in Ms. Michelle Cassano-Repole’s Emerging/Transitioning class are now in their 2nd year in this country and rapidly learning English as a New Language (ENL). One of the assignments in their ENL course was reading Dr. Jimenez’s autobiographical short story: The Circuit: Stories from the Life of a Migrant Child. “Once they completed his book, I asked my students to write letters of reflection to Professor Jimenez,” said Ms. Cassano. “Much to my surprise he responded.”“Students, I am honored to learn that reading The Circuit has encouraged you to work hard in your studies,” said Professor Jimenez. “As you now know, my experience has taught me that the best way to realize your dreams, whatever they may be, is through education. A good education will enrich your lives in many ways. It will give you opportunities to seek the kind of work you wish to do and the kind of life you desire to live. Your education is yours forever, no matter what happens. For these reason I encourage your to take advantage of every opportunity that Stimson Middle School teachers like Ms. Cassano-Repole have to offer.”
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Boys Soccer Undefeated - Notch 4th Shutout
The Boys Varsity Soccer Team defeated Northport on Friday evening by the score of 2-0. The Wildcats got on the board when Noel Reyes scored off a pass from Michael Lorello in the 6th minute. Witman Hernandez converted a great cross from Fabrizio Chamorro in the 45th minute to end the scoring. The team controlled the play throughout the game, limiting Northport to very few chances. Marc DePasquale made 4 saves for the shutout. The Wildcats are 4-0 and in 1st place in League II. They are on the road at Central Islip on Monday at 4pm. Please come out and support the team at their next home game on Friday night at 7pm versus cross-town rival Half Hollow Hills East.
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Welcome Back!
This past Friday evening, Oakwood’s PTA sponsored their annual Back-To-School night. With DJ ‘Jenn’ playing some foot-tapping tunes, and lots of great snacks, students and their families had a wonderful time dancing and getting reacquainted after a super summer break. A waterfall of balloons cascaded down on the Oakwood family, signaling the star of another great year ahead.
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Whitman Alum, Mike Damato Runner of the Week
Whitman Alum, Mike Damato, led North Florida to a victory over Florida this past weekend with an unbelievable 8k time of 24:57. The South Region No. 5-ranked North Florida men's cross country team had seven runners finish among the Top 15 highlighted by three in the top five en route to topping No. 3 Florida for the team title Saturday morning at the Mt. Dew Invitational. Also of note, Damato was selected as this season's first Atlantic Sun Men's Runner of the Week after a race-winning performance at the UNF XC Invitational. It is the first time Damato has been honored as Runner of the Week."Mike had a very good summer and came back from New York ready to roll," said head coach Jeff Pigg. In the Ospreys' season-opening meet, Damato paced the 8k field with a time of 25:45.23, winning the race by two seconds. Damato's first-place individual finish helped UNF go 4-0 in the meet.
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Wildcat Marching Band Leads the Way
The sixth annual Huntington Awareness Day parade and street fair, a celebration of “unity in the community” in Huntington Station stepped off promptly at 11AM on Saturday, September 12th. “Special thanks to our award-winning Wildcat Marching Band for providing outstanding entertainment in Huntington's Unity Awareness Day Parade,” said Schools Superintendent Dr. Dave Bennardo in his weekly newsletter. “As usual, our talented performers and the directors ‘stole the show’ and represented South Huntington with characteristic class and dignity.” The Marching Band just returned from a big competition in Brick, New Jersey this past weekend where they won a Silver Trophy for their outstanding performance.
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Lady Wildcats Win Second Consecutive Game
Yesterday, the girl’s varsity soccer team crushed Oyster Bay by a score of 8-0. Angelina Rinaldi, Rebecca Dewitt, Shelbi Wuss, Meagan O'Donnell, Nikolette Bellocchio, Joie Tortorice, Gabby Ramirez and Shannon McHale each scored for Whitman. The defense of Camilee Getchell, Meghan Soulias, Alexa DelColle and Angelique Auriemma played solid to help goalies Brittany Shaneberger and Alivia Barton secure their first shutout of the year. Nice Job ladies!
This past Saturday the girl’s varsity soccer team defeated Central Islip by a score of 5-1. Zenab Ojibe, Jessica Boyle and Rebecca Dewitt each scored a goal and Angelina Rinaldi scored two goals. Rebecca Dewitt also had two assists. Brittany Shaneberger made 6 saves to preserve the victory.
Please come outon Thursdayat4:45to support the Lady Wildcats as the face off against Connetquot.
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What Does “Hero” Mean to You?
On Friday, September 11, 2015 the students from Mrs. McLaughlin's Life Skills Class at Walt Whitman High School participated in the morning’s moment of silence and listened carefully to the beautiful poems that were read by their peers, but for some of our students, these are events that are not easily understood.
After a lesson about Patriot Day and the meaning it holds for this great country, the students had a visit with a true community Hero, Officer Drew. One of the students, Farrell Blum, was practicing taking pictures with his new camera and decided to include his buddy Officer Drew. After many photos and lots of smiles, it was clear that the students were beginning to understand what Patriot Day was about, recognizing the “Heroes” in our community for their great service.
Officer Drew always shares a warm smile and a friendly hello with the students in the Life Skills Class. He always stops what he is doing to interact with the students who are eager to speak to him and ask him questions of their own. Officer Drew is a model for the Walt Whitman Community because he reaches out to the students that require a little bit more than a wave and a smile. He takes the time to be their friend, and for many that's another meaning of "Hero."
Officer Drew is a Hero to our class and we are always happy to see him. The students were proud to take their photo with their hero, especially on this particular day of September 11. The Life Skills Class was proud to wear their red, white and blue, and they are always proud to make new friends like Officer Drew.
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