District 13 administration building gets new sign

The location of District 13’s administration building has always been something of a mystery to visitors, as it is attached to the James A. Dever School and not very distinguishable from the adjoining structure. But thanks to a bright new electronic sign, finding it should be easier.

Board of Education President Toni Pomerantz praised the new addition, saying that parents and others have for years wandered in front of the school looking for the right entrance. The administration entrance is located near the parking lot’s entrance, while the school’s is nearer the building’s middle.

“Historically, there has been confusion as to exactly where the Valley Stream District 13 administration office is located,” said Educational Foundation President Danielle Vitulli. “Now, that will no longer be the case.”

The sign was donated by the district’s Education Foundation, which board Trustee Bill Stris credited for years of fundraising. The effort began in 2010, he said. The sign cost $15,000, and its installation cost another $1,550.

It is programmable, and will feature district news, notices and other messages.

The Educational Foundation began its fundraising events in 2007 with two dinner dances held in the James A. Dever School gym, as well as, a Sunday Brunch at a cafe in Rockville Centre. Since those early endeavors, the foundation has held three yearly fundraisers. They include two Family Fun Nights that rotate throughout the district’s schools. For the past three years, the culminating event has been a golf outing and awards dinner.