The District opened a recent board meeting with a salute to those diligent community members whose contributions to the school system otherwise go largely unrecognized. These are the people usually referred to as "unsung heroes."
The first person honored was Danielle Clukies, the current Columbus Avenue School PTA treasurer. "Wherever good things are happening for our children, Danielle can be found nearby," said School Principal Peggy Miller. School board member Mike Pomerico then introduced Freeport police detective Patrick Franzone. Detective Franzone spearheads the Toys for Freeport Tots initiative, the arm of the Freeport PBA that collects donations and, working with the school district's social workers, ensures that every child in Freeport has a joyful - and toy full - holiday in December. "If I have a toy, you're going to get a toy," were the words Franzone used to describe his passion for giving to those in need.
Recognition was paid to both The United Way of Long Island Vice President of Education Initiatives Sandra A. Mahoney and JP Morgan Chase Vice President of Community Affairs Vinford A. Mentar. "I want to thank Dr. Kuncham for letting us into the schools. We're here for the long haul," said Mr. Mentar. Mahoney and Mentar worked together to establish a new and multi-faceted afterschool educational program for Freeport students. Newly-appointed president and CEO of United Way of Long Island Theresa Regnante was also honored, although she was not present.
A brief musical interlude featured a performance by Columbus Avenue School students, who saluted Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by singing "We Appreciate You." This lively song, punctuated by the children pointing to the audience as they sang "We appreciate you, you, you!"seemed to honor those being recognized at the gathering as well as Dr. King.
The meeting continued with the acknowledgment of a long, diverse and distinguished roster of employees who have attained twenty years of service to Freeport Schools. This group included teachers, teaching assistants, administrative, lunchroom and maintenance staff, and athletic coaches, among others. "We collectively honor over 320 years of service tonight," an appreciative Dr. Kuncham said in testimony to the combined longevity of those who have given so much to the school system over the last two decades.