Inspiring leadership and community spirit

Connolly and Landing Elementary Schools celebrated the spirit of leadership and civic service through their Student Council elections and pinning ceremonies, fostering civic engagement and responsibility among young students. On Nov 8, Connolly School hosted a Student Council Pinning Ceremony, where newly elected student representatives were honored for their dedication to their classmates and school community. The event was attended by like Mayor Pamela Panzenbeck  and Ronnie Lavine, a former teacher in the district and wife of Assemblyman Charles Lavine, and district officials, including Superintendent Maria Rianna, who shared a powerful message about the significance of small actions in making a difference.
Asking the students, “How many of you does it take to make an impact?” Rianna was met with a confident answer from one student who said, “One.” Rianna praised this insightful response, emphasizing, “One small act of kindness can spark a ripple effect. It’s up to each of you to make that difference.”
Connolly’s Principal, Bryce Klatsky, also highlighted the importance of the Student Council, remarking, “This ceremony is a wonderful reminder that our students are not only learning academic skills but also developing the character and leadership qualities that will help them succeed in life. We are so proud of each and every one of them.”
Earlier, on Nov. 4, students at Landing School embraced the democratic process by voting for their Student Council officers. After attending an assembly where the responsibilities of student leadership were outlined, students cast their votes with excitement, marking a valuable learning experience in civic engagement.
Guided by their long-time Student Council Advisors like Susan Stanco, Glen Cove’s Student Councils engage in various school and community projects. From organizing a breast cancer walk-a-thon to planting tulips on school grounds and running clean-up initiatives, the Student Council’s efforts promote both community pride and environmental stewardship. Currently, the Student Council at Connolly is leading a Thanksgiving food drive where students purchase “feathers for Tom the Turkey,” with proceeds funding food baskets and gift cards for local families in need. “Together, we can make a difference if we all work together,” Stanco said, reflecting on the council’s

mission.
The Student Council’s impact is especially meaningful to students like Avianna Washington and Julie Steinhauser. Washington, a third grader, shared, “I wanted to be in Student Council because I think it would be fun to represent our class and see what our class needs.” Steinhauser, a fourth grader, added, “I really wanted to help our community and our school, and I feel like Student Council stands out because they represent their class, and it’s a really fun opportunity.”
Through these elections and ceremonies, Glen Cove’s elementary schools are empowering students to lead with empathy, work collaboratively, and take pride in their roles as young leaders, setting the foundation for a lifetime of civic engagement.