NYS Commisioner of Office of Human Rights Galen Kirkland to Visit and Honor WSS for "It's Cool to Care" Initiative

On June 10, 2009, Commissioner Gale Kirkland of the New York State Office of Human Rights will visit the Washington Street School in Franklin Square, NY to recognize our efforts in spreading the message of kindness.

This visit is a culmination of a year-long effort on the part of so many to make WSS one of the kindest schools in America. This effort began with the Red Ribbon Week unveiling of the “Be a Buddy – Not a Bully" and "It’s Cool to Care” initiatives, which were both designed to encourage parents, staff, and students to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Early in the school year, the sixth grade, led by sixth grade representative Mrs. Teresa Weegar, began making this goal a reality as they partnered with the Starlight Foundation, which provides programs and services to sick childen in local hospitals. What has occurred since has no doubt proved true the adage that kindness does indeed breed kindness as students, staff, and parents have worked together to benefit numerous organizations including:


The Starlight Foundation
Camp Anchor
Toys for Tots
NY Blood Center
Soles4Souls
Ozanam Hall Nursing Home
Orzac Senior Citizen Center
Long Island Cares
Newsday Charities
Locks of Love
Interfaith Nutrition Network
National Cleaner's Association Coat Drive
Footsteps Learning Center
Ronald McDonald House
North Shore Hospital
St. Catherine of Sienna's Outreach Program


These efforts, in addition to our commitment to reward, spotlight, and honor our students whose actions reflect the virtues of kindness, empathy, and compassion have resulted in an honor in which we take great pride.

A special thank you to the WSS PTA for their continued support of our efforts to make a difference in the lives of children, as well as to all those who gave of themselves throughout the year on this most rewarding endeavor.