State and Local Leaders Honor Washington Street School

On June 10, 2009 political leaders from state and local governments visited the Washington Street School to celebrate and recognize the efforts of the school in the success of a year-long "Cool to Care" initiative designed to help make a positive impact on the lives of others. Recently, the school was contacted by Governor Paterson's office, and asked if Mr. Galen Kirkland, Commissioner of the New York State Office of Human Rights, could visit and present Dr. Vincent Butera, Principal, with an award for the school's efforts in helping to promote the message of human rights for all.

Among other notable leaders who spoke at the celebration were Nassau County legislator Mr. Vincent Muscarella, Town of Hempstead Supervisor Ms. Kate Murray, and Hempstead Coucnilman Mr. Ed Ambrosino.

The celebration began with the a poignant rendition of a poem by sixth grade student Brenda Darcy that detailed the happenings of the past year. The poem, which was accompanied by pictures and music, drew loud applause from the nearly 800 persons in attendance.

This visit is a wonderful culmination to a year-long commitment 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 children 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
Locks for Love
Newsday Charities
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

Congratulations to the entire Washington Street School community for a most rewarding accomplishment.