Board of Education Recognition Week in Valley Stream

District 13

Each year, a different elementary school in District 13 gets to host the October Board of Education meeting, dedicated to recognizing the seven elected — and volunteer — members of the board. This year, it was Howell Road’s turn, and board members were invited to take part in an educational journey.

A video highlighted the many different parts of the world where Howell Road students come from. It also featured some upcoming events this year in each grade, with the hope that trustees will attend.

Board members were given a boarding pass and passports, and invited to select events throughout the year. These events, not on the school calendar, include Thanksgiving feasts, the 100th day of school and a DNA extraction lab. Board members can receive a stamp on their passport for each visit.

Students also presented each board member with a suitcase filled with goodies including Flat Stanley, a journal, postcards and snacks.

Superintendent Dr. Adrienne Robb-Fund said the best way to recognize the board is by giving them the chance to see students in action. “When you walk through the building,” she said, “you know the thanks are there as the children are learning.”

District 24

Students, parents, teachers and administrators gave a hearty “thank you” to District 24 Board of Education members on Oct. 19.

In recognition of New York State Board of Education Recognition Week, the PTA prepared dinner for the seven volunteers who oversee District 24. After enjoying their meal, Superintendent Dr. Edward Fale had a few words of thanks during the business meeting. “We appreciate all you do for the children of this district,” he said.

Fale noted that board members serve “enthusiastically and tirelessly” without being paid. Several students then spoke to the board. They thanked the trustees for all that the school district offers, including field trips, foreign language classes and technology. The children also talked about their wonderful teachers.

District 30

The District 30 community honored Board of Education members for their efforts in celebration of the New York State Board of Education Recognition Week.

Erin Malone, principal of Forest Road School, greeted guests in a lively manner, encouraging them to practice their “roaring” applause, in the Shaw Avenue School auditorium on Oct. 24.

Zavida Mangaru and Onika McDonald, co-presidents of the Forest Road PTA, gave out special tokens of appreciation to board members, including Elise Antonelli, Carolyn Pean and Jim Lavery. Mangaru addressed each board member by their first name, to become familiar with them, she said.

Next, Forest Road students shared their “Board of Education” definitions during a video. Though some students said the board was “bored,” others said the members made decisions. They were grateful for the board’s help in getting computers, SmartBoards and other educational resources. Fifth and sixth graders sang a musical selection.

“The Board of Education is ensuring that we are implementing skills for the 21st century,” said Superintendent Dr. Elaine Kanas. “Thank you for exemplifying reasons for special school board recognition.”