Gallucci Garden recognizes retiring assistant principle

Staff and students at Meadowbrook Elementary School, in the East Meadow School District, surprised Gail Gallucci, who is retiring as assistant principal, with a celebratory tribute during the school’s annual Flag Day ceremony on June 14.

Highlighting the ceremony was the announcement that the school’s garden will be renamed “Gallucci Garden,” and a redbud tree will be planted in her honor. The tree’s heart-shaped leaves represent the positive impact that Ms. Gallucci has left on the school community.

Principal Kelly Di Scalfani-O’Brien opened the surprise tribute to Gallucci, explaining that each grade prepared a gift, despite the difficulty of keeping the party a secret. Students offered books, jokes and performances to honor Gallucci in her final weeks at Meadowbrook.

“Thank you everyone for these tremendous gifts and recognitions,” Gallucci said. “I look forward to returning to Meadowbrook during my retirement to visit — and work in — Gallucci Garden. I also look forward to seeing the students and staff as well.”

—Brian Stieglitz