Saturday, October 10, 2026
The Baldwin Union Free School District has received its seventh Champions of Change Award from the New York State School Boards Association. This time, the award was given for its Black History Month exhibit at the African American Museum of Nassau County, which featured artwork created by Baldwin students.
NYSSBA’s Champions of Change program recognizes school districts and BOCES throughout New York state for innovative initiatives that have made significant impact. Recipients are selected through committee observations and input from NYSSBA members, highlighting exceptional programs without requiring a formal application process.
The latest award adds to Baldwin UFSD’s growing list of NYSSBA recognitions. Previous Champion of Change honorees include the Future Teachers of Baldwin Pre-Academy at Baldwin Middle School, the Future Jewelers Academy at Baldwin High School@Shubert, the Baldwin Schools Wellness Center, the Shark Tank Project at Brookside Elementary School, the Hello Neighbor Project and the Education Academy at Baldwin High School.
Baldwin school district Superintendent Anthony Mignella said the recognition reflects the district’s ongoing efforts to provide students with meaningful and innovative learning opportunities.
“Receiving our seventh Champions of Change Award is a tremendous accomplishment and reflects the Baldwin School District’s continued commitment to creating innovative, relevant learning experiences for our students,” Mignella said. “We are honored that NYSSBA has recognized our Black History Month Exhibit at the African American Museum of Nassau County, which demonstrates the meaningful learning experiences that can emerge when creativity, culture and community come together.”
For four consecutive years, Baldwin UFSD has partnered with the African American Museum of Nassau County to present the special exhibit. The exhibition was displayed in a gallery featuring installations highlighting figures including Malcolm X and Rosa Parks. It showcased artwork from more than 70 Baldwin students from elementary through high school.
The February exhibition featured a variety of student work, including photographs, collages, portraits and handmade jewelry.
The official Champions of Change banner was presented during the district’s September Board of Education meeting. Gabriella Franza, assistant director for instructional programs, was recognized for organizing the district’s partnership with the museum.
“The Champions of Change Award for our Baldwin Schools African American History Month Exhibit means so much to us,” Franza said. “It reflects the real care, hard work and dedication our community put into honoring this important history.”
Audrey L. Hadden, director of education for The African Atlantic Genealogical Society, also congratulated the district on the recognition. The exhibit was initiated in 2022 under the organization’s management of the Joysetta & Julius Pearse African American Museum of Nassau County and was coordinated by Monet Green, program director.
Through the organizations educational programs and efforts to preserve and promote African American history, the museum has provided Baldwin students and educators with opportunities for cultural learning beyond the classroom. The Baldwin school district remains the only school district to have partnered with the museum for this exhibit.
“On behalf of TAAGS, we congratulate the Baldwin Union Free School District on receiving the NYSSBA Champions of Change Award,” Hadden said. “TAAGS is proud to have helped establish the foundation for this important educational partnership and to see Baldwin students continue to experience African American history, culture and legacy at the museum.”
For more information on NYSSBA’s awards and recognition programs, visit nyssba.org/awards/awards-recognition.
