Valley Stream 24 School District Students Hold Mock Supreme Court Debate in a Federal Courtroom

(MAY 2024)—Students participating in the Sixth-Grade Challenge Program at the Valley Stream 24 School District recently debated a First Amendment Supreme Court case in an authentic federal courtroom.

"Our students represented their community with pride and professionalism during this exciting opportunity to argue a crucial debate in a real court setting," said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. "This immersive, hands-on experience not only allowed our students to study the United States Constitution in depth but also provided them with a unique perspective on the judicial process. They demonstrated exceptional critical thinking and public speaking skills, which are essential for their future academic and personal growth."

Students visited the Eastern District of New York’s United States Bankruptcy Court in Brooklyn for the engaging civics project. Dressed in professional attire, students took on the roles of judges and lawyers in a landmark Supreme Court case centered around the crucial debate between National Security and Freedom of the Press as protected by the First Amendment.

Leading up to the experience, students meticulously read and analyzed Supreme Court decisions to effectively apply them in support of their arguments. The field trip allowed students to put their knowledge into practice in a professional setting, enhancing their understanding of civics and the legal system. This project underscores the district’s commitment to providing students with meaningful and impactful educational experiences that extend beyond the classroom.

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 Sixth Graders Explores Nature During an Exciting Field Trip to the Ashokan Center

(MAY 2024)— Students from all three schools in the Valley Stream 24 School District recently embarked on an interactive outdoor education experience at the Ashokan Center in Olivebridge, New York.

“Visiting the Ashokan Center is a wonderful and memorable experience for all our students across the district,” remarked Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “It provides them with interdisciplinary lessons and fosters bonds while surrounded by breathtaking nature and scenery. As our students prepare to enter the Valley Stream Central High School District together, this trip allows them to come together and form lasting relationships. We express our gratitude to our staff and parents for their unwavering support of our sixth-grade trip.”

Students from Brooklyn Avenue School, William L. Buck School, and Robert W. Carbonaro School delved into science and the environment in New York’s Hudson Valley, forging friendship connections and participating in community-building activities with peers from neighboring schools.

The Ashokan Center offers students opportunities to explore nature, history, music, and art in a beautiful and inspiring setting. Activities ranged from canoeing expeditions and hiking trips to hands-on encounters with the various animals and wildlife that inhabit the 385-acre preserve. The day’s events also featured several games and opportunities for students to acquaint themselves with one another. To cap off the excitement, students gathered around a roaring fire to roast marshmallows, concluding a day filled with enriching experiences and cherished memories.

Valley Stream 24 School District Attends Howard University Hiring Fair to Expand Recruitment Efforts

(APRIL 2024)—Superintendent Unal Karakas of Valley Stream 24 School District recently conveyed the district’s commitment to expanding its recruitment efforts to a diverse pool of candidates at a recruitment fair held at Howard University in Washington, D.C. Joining Superintendent Karakas was Dr. Scott Comis, Principal of Brooklyn Avenue School. Notably, Valley Stream 24 School District was the only district from the tristate area to engage candidates face-to-face at this historically Black University’s recruitment fair.

Reflecting on the experience, Superintendent Unal Karakas remarked, “Meeting candidates from across the nation, as well as local individuals from the tristate area, and those intending to return post-graduation, was truly remarkable. Engaging with students from various backgrounds allowed us to share our district's core values and aspirations. While some may view our presence at the fair as an opportunity for candidates, we see it as an opportunity for our district to broaden our candidate pool and enhance our service to students. We are dedicated to continuously ensuring high-quality educators for our students and recognize the importance of seeking diverse talent nationwide.”

The district's participation in the recruitment fair is aligned with its mission to enrich the diversity of its candidate talent pool, particularly in recruitment efforts. Valley Stream 24 School District already collaborates with local colleges and universities, utilizing platforms like Handshake to advertise job opportunities. By attending Howard University’s recruitment fair, Superintendent Karakas and Principal Comis sought to increase their engagement with candidates and foster a dialogue that goes beyond a traditional job posting.

“Our aim is to venture into diverse spaces and showcase the district's offerings,” explained Mr. Karakas. “Many Howard University students were unaware of Valley Stream 24 School District but were enthusiastic to learn about the opportunities we offer to our staff, students, and community. They were also excited about our future-focused vision for the district.”

Mr. Karakas intends to further partnerships with historically Black colleges and universities, alongside other local colleges and universities, and participate in career fairs to expand the district’s outreach. Moreover, the district’s recruitment strategy includes initiatives to retain staff, such as mentorship programs, comprehensive onboarding training, and ongoing professional development, ensuring new hires feel supported and integrated into the Valley Stream 24 community.

Valley Stream 24 Hosts Annual Sixth-Grade Hockey Tournament

(MARCH 2024) —In a spirited showcase of athletic prowess and camaraderie, students from all three schools in the Valley Stream 24 School District recently converged for the district’s Annual Sixth-Grade Hockey Tournament held at Valley Stream South High School.

"The district’s hockey tournament is an awe-inspiring display of teamwork, athleticism, and community," remarked Superintendent of Schools, Mr. Unal Karakas. "Our students exhibited remarkable sportsmanship throughout an exhilarating day of friendly competition. A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated physical education teachers, principals, and all staff for their unwavering support in fostering this positive experience for our students. We also thank our families for showcasing their support of all our students. It's truly gratifying to witness opportunities that celebrate sportsmanship and unite our community."

Amidst the excitement, a team from Robert W. Carbonaro School emerged victorious, triumphing over counterparts from William L. Buck School and Brooklyn Avenue School. The tournament featured a total of six teams—two representing each school—with elimination enforced after two match losses. Families and friends filled the stands, cheering on the young athletes during each thrilling encounter.

Brooklyn Avenue and Robert W. Carbonaro Students Ring in Spring with Annual Chorus Concerts

(MARCH 2024) —To welcome the arrival of spring, Brooklyn Avenue School and Robert W. Carbonaro School in the Valley Stream School District hosted their annual spring chorus concerts. These joyous musical gatherings brought together the children's classmates, staff, families, and community members.

"Throughout the winter, students devoted themselves to rehearsing songs and diligently preparing for the spring concert," noted Superintendent of Schools Unal Karakas. "The outcome was truly remarkable and captivating. We extend our commendations to every student for delivering such outstanding performances. Additionally, we express our gratitude to Ms. Wilkey for her exceptional guidance and preparation of our students, which contributed to the success of these wonderful performances."

Guided by their chorus teacher, Ms. Wilkey, Brooklyn Avenue and Robert W. Carbonaro students presented a variety of songs that showcased their talents and hard work. One particularly memorable moment involved audience participation, with attendees joining in to mimic the sound of rainfall.

Both concerts provided an enriching experience for the school and community alike, highlighting the skills and dedication of the district's chorus students. William L. Buck School will hold its spring concert in May.

Valley Stream 24 Assistant Superintendent Joins Educators to Help Build a School on Volunteer Trip

(MARCH 2024) —Dr. Jack Mitchell, the Assistant Superintendent of Business for the Valley Stream 24 School District, recently joined a group of educators to build a sustainable school in Guatemala.

From January 17th through January 24th, Dr. Mitchell and around 40 other volunteers participated in the second Lifetouch Memory Mission in Guatemala to construct “bottle classrooms”—sustainable classrooms that are made using plastic bottles and inorganic trash. Dr. Mitchell volunteered in Xepatan, in the Guatemalan state of Chimaltenango, where he met the local students and helped host the community’s first “Picture Day” for students in Kindergarten through sixth grade.

Through the mission trip, Lifetouch partnered with the Guatemala-based Hug It Forward and the community of Xetapan to build the bottle classrooms. The foundations, columns, and beams were made from concrete reinforced with iron rebar. Instead of cinder blocks, however, the classroom’s walls were created using “eco-bricks” or plastic bottles filled with inorganic trash. The schools are expected to last 100 years.

“I’m so touched by the opportunity to take part in this mission trip,” Dr. Mitchell said. “Building an eco-friendly school like this is fascinating and it’s something that will have an immeasurable impact on the community. I’m looking forward to immersing myself in a new country and giving my all to help the people living there.”

The Lifetouch Memory Mission also hosted the first ever Picture Day for the community’s kindergarten through sixth-grade children. Volunteers saw the joy in the students’ faces when they received their first photos on the last day of the trip.

In addition to creating an improved and stable classroom and school environment for the Guatemalan community, Dr. Mitchell was touched by the opportunity to engage with the community, appreciating the land, tasting the food, and meeting the students.  

Since 2000, Lifetouch has been inviting company employees and national education partners to volunteer on its Memory Mission and serve communities across the globe. Volunteers have built schools across Haiti and the Dominican Republic, rebuilt a village in Kosovo, repaired homes in Appalachia, created a children’s center in Jamaica, and constructed a bridge in the land of the Navajo in Arizona.

Valley Stream 24 School District Unites in Empathy and Support on P.S. I Love You Day

(FEBRUARY 2024) — All schools in the Valley Stream 24 School District recently celebrated P.S. I Love You Day, recognized annually on the second Friday of February, by wearing purple—the official color of P.S. I Love You Day—and taking part in a variety of classroom activities focused on mental health, suicide prevention, and standing up to bullying.

“P.S. I Love You Day is an important opportunity to teach children about mental health, bullying prevention and the role we can play in ensuring everyone around us feels supported and loved,” said Superintendent of Schools Unal Karakas. “Students across our schools spread positivity during a number of activities throughout the day to learn about mental wellness, which is an essential part of our social-emotional curriculum. P.S. I Love You Day serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to prioritize mental health, prevent bullying, and cultivate a culture of empathy and support.”

Throughout the district, students engaged in a diverse array of activities designed to promote mental wellness and foster empathy. At Brooklyn Avenue School, heartfelt messages of encouragement adorned a school-wide banner, serving as a tangible testament to the power of positivity and the importance of mental wellness. The BAS PTA further demonstrated their support by generously donating purple bracelets, uniting students and staff in a symbolic display of solidarity.

Meanwhile, at William L. Buck School, students inscribed messages of kindness and hope in colorful chalk on the school's entranceway, spreading rays of positivity for all who entered. Similarly, students at Robert W. Carbonaro School participated in uplifting social-emotional activities, infusing their hallways with a contagious spirit of optimism and compassion.

Valley Stream 24 Student Councils Collaborate with Superintendent Unal Karakas to Shape the Future

(FEBRUARY 2024) — Valley Stream 24 School District Superintendent of Schools Unal Karakas recently met with the Student Councils of all three schools to engage them in discussions about the collective vision of the district’s future.

"At Valley Stream 24, we champion the importance of student voices in shaping our future, and we are committed to maintaining a forward-thinking approach as a district," remarked Mr. Karakas. "I take immense pride in our student council members for their proactive engagement in their educational journey and for their willingness to share their visions and ideas for the future. Additionally, I extend sincere appreciation to our devoted teachers and staff, whose unwavering dedication prepares our students to emerge as leaders. A special recognition is due to our Student Council teachers, Marissa Campo, Christine Iadevaio, Cathy Haufler, Pam Fowler, Linda Biley, and Denise Anderson, for their pivotal role in fostering student leadership within our schools."

Student Council members at William L. Buck School, Robert W. Carbonaro School and Brooklyn Avenue School each gave their input and feedback during the visits with Mr. Karakas. One idea shared by students was to introduce new furniture that allows for collaborative working spaces.

Mr. Karakas also invited Student Council members to join him in reviewing the school lunch menu to determine what meals students would enjoy the most for lunch. As a result of this collaboration, the district will begin offering vegetarian choices starting in March!

In addition to these efforts, the district is embarking on an initiative titled Vision 2030, aimed at adapting to future needs and cultivating a 21st-century learning environment for its students.

All Valley Stream 24 Schools Are Now Designated as Schools in Academic Good Standing

(FEBRUARY 2024) —With the recent notification from the New York State Department of Education that Brooklyn Avenue School has been taken off the State's Targeted Support and Improvement (TSI) list, the Valley Stream 24 School District is excited to announce that all three of its schools are now in academic good standing. According to the latest provisions of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), the former term of good standing is now listed as Local Support and Improvement (LSI).

“This remarkable achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support and active engagement of our entire district community,” Superintendent of Schools Mr. Karakas said. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our families for their continuous involvement, recognize the diligence of our students, and appreciate the exceptional commitment and hard work demonstrated by our administrators, teachers, and staff members, all of whom have played pivotal roles in our district's attainment of this new designation.”

Mr. Karakas outlined the district’s commitment to ongoing excellence, and that all administrators and staff are dedicated to consistently delivering the highest quality education and unwavering support for their students. The district’s vision for the future is centered on continuous growth and innovation, aiming to equip students to meet the demands of the 21st century.

Valley Stream 24 Schools Host Annual Scripps National Spelling Bee

(JANUARY 2024) —Students from all schools within the Valley Stream 24 School District recently put their spelling skills to the test in the Scripps National Spelling Bee competition. The winners and runners-up at each school have earned the opportunity to advance to the next level of the national competition, which involves taking an online test to qualify for the regional spelling bee.

Superintendent of Schools Unal Karakas expressed pride in the students' efforts, saying, "We're incredibly proud of all our students who enthusiastically participated in the spelling bee. They dedicated themselves to rigorous preparation, learning essential strategies and skills along the way. We're also thrilled for our first and second place winners as they move forward in the competition."

Students collaborated closely with their teachers and families to prepare for this event, expanding their vocabulary and applying classroom strategies. The competition not only tested their spelling abilities but also deepened their understanding of the meanings and applications of challenging words, some even at a high school level.

Here are the winners from each school:

· Brooklyn Avenue School: Fourth-grade student Shannon Reece and fifth-grade student Kailyn Arroyave tied for first place.

· Robert W. Carbonaro School: Fifth-grade student Linval Frazer secured first place, while fifth-grade student Nathalie Pantangan took second place.

· William L. Buck School: Fifth-grade student Jake Marlborough emerged as the first-place winner, and sixth-grade student Ava McIntyre secured second place.

The district extends its congratulations to all these talented students and wishes them the best of luck in the upcoming rounds of the competition!

American Paralympian, Wrestler, and Motivational Speaker Rohan Murphy Inspires Sixth-Grade Students

(DECEMBER 2023) — Motivational speaker Rohan Murphy recently visited all schools in the Valley Stream 24 School District to share his journey and life lessons with sixth-grade students. Murphy, an American Paralympian, accomplished wrestler, and nationally recognized youth speaker, has garnered attention and recognition from media outlets such as ABCNews, Sports Illustrated, 20/20, and Nike's influential campaign, No Excuses.

Superintendent of Schools Unal Karakas remarked, "Here at the Valley Stream 24 School District, our commitment lies in providing our students with unwavering support, instilling confidence, and offering the necessary resources to help them succeed while overcoming any obstacles they encounter in both their academic and life journeys. We take immense pride in welcoming Rohan Murphy to our schools. His engaging interactions and inspirational message resonated profoundly with our students, serving as a powerful testament to achieving success through determination."

Karen Serro, Robert W. Carbonaro’s social worker, facilitated the Rohan Murphy program districtwide in hopes to promote positive messages of hope, kindness, self-love, and overcoming adversity.

Despite facing the challenge of having his legs amputated at a very young age, Rohan Murphy defied the odds and went on to build a successful career, ultimately competing as a wrestler at Penn State University. During his visit, Rohan Murphy engaged sixth-grade students in conversations about the importance of inclusivity, effective goal setting, and the resilience needed to conquer life's adversities.

Valley Stream 24 Partners with Gap to Bring Warm Clothing to Students and Families This Winter

(DECEMBER 2023) — The Valley Stream 24 School District has joined forces with Gap as part of the 2023 Adopt-A-School Donation Drive by the renowned clothing and accessories company. In preparation for the holiday recess, a team of Gap representatives, referred to as "Gap elves," paid a visit to the District to deliver a generous assortment of winter attire, including sweatshirts, sweatpants, hoodies, and other outerwear.

“We appreciate partnering with Gap through its Adopt-A-School Donation Drive to give back to our district community this holiday season. We were beyond excited to bring this heartwarming initiative to our entire community, especially during the colder winter months,” said Superintendent of Schools Unal Karakas.

The key figures facilitating this collaboration from Gap were Andrew Rizzo and Tamika Goodridge, responsible for overseeing the Long Island and Downtown Brooklyn areas. The initiative involved rallying Gap stores in Bellport, Deer Park, Riverhead, Woodbury, Oceanside, and Westbury to contribute to the Valley Stream 24 District community. The district’s staff provided a wish list of essential items, which were thoughtfully packaged, labeled, and personally delivered by Gap elves just before the holiday break. Thanks to this clothing drive, the district was able to provide warm clothing for the winter to more than 30 children and families in need.

Valley Stream 24 Students Support Those in Need with Holiday Food Drive

(DECEMBER 2023) — During this holiday season, students at William L. Buck School in the Valley Stream 24 School District exemplified the spirit of giving by dedicating their time to assist both the broader Long Island community and their own local neighbors. Under the leadership of teachers Marissa Campo and Christine Iadevaio, the Student Council initiated a food drive spanning the months of November and December to provide essential support to those in need. While a portion of the donations will be directed to Island Harvest, the remaining contributions will be personally delivered to local families by district staff.

Superintendent of Schools Unal Karakas emphasized the significance of this compassionate effort, stating, "This time of the year prompts us to reflect on what we are grateful for and to consider how we can make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate within our own community. I am immensely proud of our students and staff for their generosity and unwavering dedication to ensuring that families have every reason to celebrate."

Valley Stream 24 Celebrates Diversity Through Cooking

(DECEMBER 2023) — William L. Buck School in the Valley Stream 24 School District hosted its first Family Forum of the school year with a night of diversity, unity, and delicious rice dishes. In alignment with December’s "One School, One Book" initiative, students engaged with Norah Dooley's "Everybody Cooks Rice." Families of students in grades three through six were invited to participate in a delightful feast featuring their favorite rice dishes, fostering a sense of community, celebration, and connection.

“Our first family forum of the year showcased diversity and culture through the versatility of rice in cuisines across the world,” said Superintendent of Schools Unal Karakas. "I had the pleasure of witnessing our families coming together, not only to share their rice dishes but also to proudly showcase their unique cultural heritage. It fills us with pride to see our students and their families enjoying such a delightful evening, fostering unity while celebrating the richness of diversity and culture."

Each family contributed a traditional rice dish, resulting in a diverse and flavorful lineup. Attendees had the opportunity to savor rice dishes from different corners of the globe while fostering meaningful connections with their classmates and neighbors.

This event underscores the district's commitment to family engagement. Valley Stream 24 continues to host family forums aimed at bringing families together, offering support to students, and fostering a sense of community where they can learn from one another.

Valley Stream 24 Schools Celebrate the Season with Holiday Concerts

(DECEMBER 2023) — The Valley Stream 24 School District was filled with a festive spirit as all three schools recently delighted audiences with enchanting holiday concerts. These heartwarming performances featured the musical talents of students from the chorus, band, and orchestra programs, captivating not only their families but also the community.

Superintendent of Schools Unal Karakas shared his appreciation, saying, "Through ongoing rehearsals, our dedicated students spread cheer to their families and our entire community. We take immense pride in their outstanding and joyous performances. We also thank our talented music teachers for preparing our students for these performances."

William L. Buck School, Robert W. Carbonaro School, and Brooklyn Avenue School each had their own holiday performances, presenting a mix of timeless classics and holiday favorites.

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.

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.