Floral Park-Bellerose Union Free School District honored both students and staff at the board of education meeting on Sept. 13.
The meeting opened with the John Lewis Childs School color guard, who led attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance and sang “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The students are Aidan Burleigh, Madison Coke, Sagar Doshi, Alexander Glaser, Anthony Green, Gurmurat Kaur, Samantha Masucci, Elizabeth Mathew, Justin Neisha, Austin Rasenthiram, Reagan Redmond and Molly Turner.
Following the color guard, Interim Superintendent Lisa Ruiz welcomed new staff to the district.
“You have joined a truly unique community; a school district with a talented and dedicated faculty, and a community with great pride and spirit,” Ruiz said. “We’re glad you’re here, adding a fresh perspective and enthusiasm to our mission to prepare every student exceedingly well. Everyone here is ready and eager to support you.”
The new staff members at Floral Park-Bellerose School are Katelyn Flomer, grade 2; Jordan Freeman, behavioral specialist; Jennifer Gill, pre-K; Jana Guber, reading; Keisha Persaud, speech; Hannah Schmid, grade 5; Caitlyn Pereira, grade 6; Kerry Santantonio, reading; and Ari Shapiro, special education. The new staff at John Lewis Childs School are Taylor DeLalla, behavioral specialist; Amitai Perline, ENL; Kate Polacco, reading; and
Nicole Weiden, reading. The new districtwide staff are Ivy Chatanow, music/strings teacher; and Katherine Lavelle, social worker.
Then, John Lewis Childs School Principal Susan Fazio and Floral Park-Bellerose School Assistant Principal Bridget Stegmeier recommended Shelly-Ann Blackwood and Lizeth Baltierrez, respectively, for tenure.
The recognitions concluded with Director of Special Education Sharon Meyer recognizing Maryann Viola for her retirement. Viola served as the senior typist clerk for the
special education department. She received a Distinguished Service Resolution from Board President Beth Kierez.
