SMS band director has ‘distinction’

Seaford Middle School Band Director Barbara Sherwin of South Farmingdale was one of 10 women from the 17th Assembly District who was honored with a “Women of Distinction” Award. Each year Assemblyman Tom McKevitt (R, C, I-East Meadow) joins local leaders and residents to honor women from their legislative districts who have impacted their communities and the lives of others through their commitment to service. Honorees were selected based on their accomplishments in the fields of business, community and civic affairs, education, government, health care, humanitarianism and military service.

“Mrs. Sherwin is an exceptional educator who is dedicated to improving the lives of her students and her community,” said Seaford Superintendent Brian Conboy. “Her accomplishments truly embody the mission of the Women of Distinction awards.”

Sherwin has taught elementary general music for grades K-6, elementary band, middle level band and chorus, high school band and marching band. She was the Director of Music for the Seaford School District from 2006-2011 and is currently the Middle School Band Director. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Hofstra University and continued her graduate studies there, earning two master’s degrees: Master of Arts in Secondary Education and Master of Arts in Wind Conducting. She was the Graduate Conducting Associate for the Hofstra University Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band. Her affiliations have included the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA), the Nassau Music Educators Association and the state Band Directors Association. She currently performs with the Northwinds Symphonic Band as the piccoloist.

The awards were recently presented at a formal ceremony at the Farmingdale Public Library where the Seaford Middle School Woodwind Ensemble performed under the direction of Sherwin. Members of the ensemble were Alexis Adams, Kathryn Davison, Lillie Renck, Ashley Soliwoda and Kaitlyn Sidoti on flute; Emily Rail and Katie Crawford on clarinet, and Lauren King on bass clarinet.