Brookside School celebrates Blue Ribbon status

Brookside School celebrated its Blue Ribbon status on Nov. 6 with current and former administrators and PTA presidents in attendance and special visits by State Senator Dean Skelos and Town of Hempstead Councilwoman Earlene Hooper.

Baldwin High School Varsity Cheerleaders opened the ceremony along with music by the Baldwin High School Concert Band and the Octapella ensemble. Speakers included Superintendent of Schools Dr. James Mapes, Board of Education President Mary Jo O’Hagan, and Brookside PTA President Loretta Crespo. Refreshments were provided by PTA and high school culinary arts students. Said Mrs. O’Hagan, “Here in Baldwin, we are proud of all our schools – as each is unique and every one committed to excellence in education – and today the entire district is happy to share in the celebration of this shining moment for Brookside School.”

Brookside School was among the winners of the 2009 U.S. Department of Education National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Award. The Blue Ribbon flag that was presented to Principal Ivy Sherman in Washington, D.C. is now proudly flying above the school.