Alden Terrace School students recently came together to celebrate the service and selfless sacrifices of the nation’s veterans in a vibrant and musical tribute to Veterans Day on November 8.

The entire school community gathered in the gymnasium, united in honoring the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces. Together, they journeyed through the six branches of the U.S. military—Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force and Coast Guard—learning about each one’s vital role.

To begin the celebration, Principal Shawnée Warfield shared a heartwarming excerpt from H is for Hero, reading the page “V is for Veteran” to help everyone understand the true meaning of Veterans Day and the importance of honoring those who have served.

The energy soared as they sang together “America the Beautiful” before Mrs. Warfield took a special moment to recognize the veterans in the audience. Those honored included Muriel Perales a 27-year veteran of the United States Army and Curtis Brown, who served eight years in the United States Army, as well as Alden Terrace lunch aide Pauline Johnson and custodian Matrice Williams.

Under the enthusiastic direction of music teacher Gintare Bukauskas, scholars from grades 1-6 brought the history of the military branches to life with their powerful performances. The first graders kicked things off with the “Marines' Hymn,” and second graders proudly sang “The Army Song.” Third graders honored the Navy with “Anchors Aweigh,” while fourth graders honored the U.S. Space Force with “Sempra Supra.” Fifth graders filled the air with the inspiring “Wild Blue Yonder” of the U.S. Air Force, and sixth graders brought the Coast Guard’s motto to life with “Semper Paratus” (“Always Ready”). Each song was performed twice, inviting everyone in the audience to sing along and join the celebration.

Throughout the program, staff shared personal stories, honoring family members who have served or are actively serving in the military. Monuments and symbols representing each branch added even more meaning to the performances.

As the assembly concluded, the gymnasium buzzed with excitement and gratitude. Students lined up to personally thank the visiting veterans for their service.

This incredible celebration not only honored our veterans, but also brought the entire school together.

Click here to view the Alden Terrace School Students Embark on Musical Journey to Honor Veterans slideshow.

Date Added: 11/27/2024

On November 8, Clara H. Carlson School’s patriotism was on full display as it proudly hosted its vibrant and heartfelt annual Veterans Day Assembly to honor the brave men and women who have served in the nation’s military.

The ceremony began with the third graders, the Color Guard and special veteran guests entering the auditorium to the timeless tune of Grand Old Flag. Principal Stacia Walfall welcomed an enthusiastic crowd and sixth grader Donavaun Gopie delivered a beautiful rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.

Each third grade class then took center stage to shine a spotlight on five of the six branches of the U.S. military — the Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marine Corp and Army. Their performances of “This Land is Your Land” and “Fifty Nifty” were met with cheers from the audience, and their recitation of the Heroes in Uniform poem brought smiles and applause.

The celebration continued with a moving slideshow honoring veterans, followed by an inspiring reading of the poem Don't Quit by school counselor Jane Dragovich. As the ceremony neared its grand finale, the third graders returned to the risers to deliver a rousing rendition of “Thank You, Soldiers,” before closing with the beloved Grand Old Flag.

Date Added: 11/20/2024

The excitement and pride were evident in the chatter and full gymnasium at Covert Avenue School, as the Elmont community came together to honor both local veterans from the American Legion Post 1033 and ENL scholars at the board of education meeting on November 12.        

Superintendent of Schools Marlon Small began the meeting with heartfelt words of thanks to the veterans in attendance before handing the reigns over to Covert Avenue School Principal Mary Natoli. With warm enthusiasm, Ms. Natoli welcomed the families, scholars, board trustees and all others in attendance to the annual tradition of honoring those who have served the country. She then invited Nassau County Director of Veterans Affairs Ralph Esposito to join in leading the Pledge of Allegiance. 

Under the inspiring direction of Covert Avenue music teacher Sheryl Turk, the fifth and sixth grade chorus sang a touching rendition of “The Star Spangled Banner.” 

Following the national anthem, Ms. Natoli addressed the veterans. “On behalf of all of us, thank you for your service and sacrifice. It is because of you that we can enjoy the freedom to pursue our goals and celebrate days like today. Your bravery and dedication inspire us to be better, and your legacy reminds us of the importance of giving back to our community and country.”

In a beautiful tribute to the veterans, the chorus sang once more, delivering a powerful performance of “United We Stand (An American Medley).” Principals from all six buildings, alongside students, then presented handmade cards to the veterans as a token of gratitude. 

American Legion Post 1033 Commander Lecia A. Rodriques-Whyte and Mr. Esposito thanked the district and families for their unconditional support each year. 

After the touching ceremony honoring Elmont’s veterans, Interim Director of Curriculum and Instruction Robert Cavaliere recognized the incredible milestone achieved by 74 ENL scholars from across the district. These remarkable students scored at the Commanding level on the New York State English as a Second Language Achievement Test, an annual assessment designed to evaluate students’ abilities in listening, speaking, reading and writing in English. Achieving the Commanding level represents a student’s mastery of fluency in English. 

Students from each building were called to the front of the gymnasium, where they were congratulated by their principals and Mr. Cavaliere, and received a Certificate of Recognition. 

To offer an inclusive and engaging environment for all attendees, the district also  provided live translation in Spanish with ear-piece devices.

Click here to view the District Celebrates Excellence in Service and Academics at November Board Meeting slideshow.

Date Added: 11/18/2024