Valley Stream 24 Staff Face Off Against the Harlem Wizards During Fun-Filled Basketball Fundraiser

(NOVEMBER 2023) — More than 300 students and staff from the Valley Stream 24 School District came together with families and local community members to partake in the excitement of a Harlem Wizards PTA Fundraiser basketball game at Valley Stream Central High School. This time, it wasn't just the Wizards facing off; it was the dedicated staff of Valley Stream 24 showcasing their basketball skills! The collaborative effort of the three district schools’ PTAs played a pivotal role in making this event a success, exemplifying the district's theme of “Make the Connection.”

“The Harlem Wizards and our remarkable staff delivered a spectacular and entertaining game that brought joy to everyone present. This event truly emphasizes the unity within our community. It was a fantastic experience for students, their families, and our staff alike. The collaboration and hard work of our PTAs have played a crucial role in making this event a resounding success,” remarked Superintendent of Schools Unal Karakas.

Known for their prowess in basketball, entertainment, team building, and humor, the Harlem Wizards collaborated with Valley Stream 24 to create an unforgettable event that transcended the basketball court. This memorable evening, marked by laughter, cheers, and friendly competition, underscored the powerful connections that thrive within the Valley Stream 24 School District. It served as a testament to the community's dedication to fostering a positive and supportive environment for students, where educational initiatives and shared experiences continue to strengthen the ties that bind the community together. The Harlem Wizards Game stands as a shining example of the district's commitment to providing exceptional and memorable experiences that resonate with students, families, and staff alike.

For more information about Valley Stream 24, please visit the District’s website at https://valleystreamschooldistrict24.org and ‘like’ our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/VS24SchoolDistrict #MakeTheConnection #VS24

Valley Stream 24 Students Share Heartwarming Moments with Local Veteran

(NOVEMBER 2023) — The students at William L. Buck School in the Valley Stream 24 School District were recently treated to a moving presentation by George Catalanotto, a Vietnam veteran and esteemed resident of Valley Stream. Transporting the students through his military journey, Mr. Catalanotto provided a firsthand account of his experiences and imparted valuable insights into the nation's military, perfectly timed for Veterans Day.

Recognizing the significance of the occasion, Superintendent of Schools, Mr. Unal Karakas, expressed, “Engaging with and expressing gratitude to a veteran around Veterans Day holds significant importance for our school district. Mr. Catalanotto showcases optimism and joy when he presents about his experience, creating meaningful connections with everyone.”

During the presentation, Mr. Catalanotto engaged the students by inviting them to participate actively. Students were also presented with special pins as a token of appreciation.

Post-assembly, Valley Stream students had the chance to engage with Mr. Catalanotto, asking him questions about his experiences and presenting him with heartfelt cards expressing their appreciation.

A prominent figure in the community, Mr. Catalanotto was honored as the 2022 Valley Stream Herald Person of the Year. His active involvement in various boards and committees for the village of Valley Stream, coupled with his membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), underscores his commitment to service beyond his military years.

Valley Stream 24 School District Teaches Fire Safety

(OCTOBER 2023) — The Valley Stream Fire Department Fire Safety and Education Committee, alongside Ladder Company 2, recently visited schools in the Valley Stream 24 School District to teach students about fire safety.

"Our students were thrilled to meet local firefighters and gain valuable knowledge about fire safety. We extend our gratitude to the entire Valley Stream Fire Department for taking the time to engage with our students," expressed Mr. Unal Karakas, the Superintendent of Schools.

During an interactive assembly, students watched a firefighter get into full uniform. Students were also able to take turns sitting in a firetruck and learning about each of its tools. While inside, they learned about each of the truck’s tools and equipment, gaining insights into the vital resource’s firefighters have at their disposal when responding to emergencies. This practical exposure not only enriched their understanding of fire safety but also kindled their fascination with the world of firefighting.

Additionally, Robert W. Carbonaro Elementary School had a special guest leading their assembly – Mr. Roth, a Sixth-Grade Teacher. He showcased his firefighting gear and shared his expertise with the students, making the event even more informative and engaging.

Valley Stream 24 Radiates Orange and Promotes Kindness on Unity Day

(OCTOBER 2023) — The Valley Stream 24 School District recently joined a nationwide initiative, celebrating Unity Day to take a stance against bullying and promote kindness.

"Through our celebration of Unity Day, we instill in our students the values of compassion, empathy, and the importance of extending a helping hand. While Unity Day is set aside once a year, these principles continue to serve as the foundation of our educational mission, with a particular focus on fostering the social-emotional well-being of our students," stated Mr. Unal Karakas, Superintendent of Schools.

Unity Day is a nationwide initiative organized by PACER's National Bullying Prevention Center, marking a pivotal event during Bullying Prevention Month. On this day, the Valley Stream 24 community, including students, educators, and staff, were encouraged to wear orange to show their support for bullying prevention.

Students actively participated in a variety of activities aimed at emphasizing the importance of empathy and respect for everyone. The Unity Day spirit transcended into the classrooms, where students created unity bracelets to exchange with their fellow peers. Additionally, they constructed kindness chains using orange construction paper and strings, representing unity and the strong connections that bind them together. These activities were in line with the district's theme of "Make the Connection." Moreover, students ventured into their school yards and utilized chalk with their teachers to transform the blacktop into a canvas decorated with vivid images and uplifting messages. All these activities spread joy and kindness throughout Valley Stream 24 schools.