Valley Stream 24 Heads to Washington, D.C. for National School Boards Association Institute

Valley Stream 24 School District Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas recently joined Board Trustees Alisa Clark and Cynthia Nuñez, William L. Buck Principal Michael Deblasio, and Director of Pupil Services Juanita Walters at the National School Boards Association (NSBA) Institute in Washington, D.C. The Valley Stream 24 team participated in breakout sessions and attended speeches dedicated to advocating for government policies that support student success and inclusive learning environments in public schools.

“Attending the National School Boards Association’s institute was an enlightening experience that provided us with keen insight we bring back to Valley Stream 24,” said Superintendent Dr. Karakas. “The conference included sessions on the growing role of artificial intelligence and advanced technology in education, which perfectly aligns with our Vision 2030 initiative and the work we are doing at Valley Stream 24 to prepare all of our students for the future.”

The Institute focused on the latest developments in education policy and legislation, equipping school board members and educational leaders with the tools, understanding, and strategies necessary to foster a supportive and successful learning environment for all students.

Dr. Karakas and his team attended speeches by keynote speakers Brandon Farbstein, a global empowerment speaker and bullying prevention advocate; Robert Kelty, the head of outreach, government relations, and development for the International Baccalaureate (IB) North America; and Holly Robinson Peete, an actress, author, activist, and philanthropist advocating for both the Parkinson’s and autism communities.

The conference included discussions on artificial intelligence and modern technological advancements in education. These insights provided ongoing insight to Valley Stream 24 educators and board members as the district advances its Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to cultivate a forward-thinking, 21st-century learning environment that prepares students with essential skills for the future.

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 #InnovatingOurFuture

For Valentine’s Day, Valley Stream 24 Student Council Bakes Cookies for Families in Need

This Valentine’s Day, Student Council members at William L. Buck School in the Valley Stream 24 School District spread kindness and warmth by baking cookies for families staying at the Ronald McDonald House. As part of the Treats from the Heart program, students visited the site, where they prepared and shared sweet treats with children and their loved ones, bringing comfort and joy to those facing difficult times.

“This experience was not just about baking. It was about compassion, gratitude, and giving back,” said Student Council advisor Marissa Campo. “Our students left with full hearts, knowing they helped bring smiles to children and families who need them the most,” added Student Council advisor Christine Iadevaio.

Ahead of their visit, students created personalized coloring books filled with uplifting messages for the children staying at the Ronald McDonald House. They had the heartwarming opportunity to witness the smiles on the children’s faces when they received their books, along with toys generously contributed by staff member Karolyn Currie.

During their time at the Ronald McDonald House, students were also given a tour, met staff members, and learned about the vital programs and services provided to families of children undergoing medical treatment.

Valley Stream 24 remains committed to fostering empathy and leadership among its students through meaningful service-learning experiences.

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

Valley Stream 24 Students Strengthen Their 21st-Century Skills Through 3D-Printing Project

Fifth-grade students in the Challenge Program at Valley Stream 24 School District recently harnessed the power of 3D printing to design and create intricate snowflakes. After mastering this cutting-edge technology, they took on the role of educators, teaching Kindergarten students how to bring their own snowflake designs to life. This innovative, cross-grade collaboration immersed students in hands-on engineering and 21st-century digital fabrication, reinforcing creativity, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

“Our students were so excited to master 3D printing and share this intriguing technology with their Kindergarten peers,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “This project exemplifies the incorporation of technology, collaboration, and immersive learning we prioritize in Valley Stream 24 as part of our Vision 2030 initiative.”

Fifth-grade students utilized Tinkercad, a user-friendly 3D design platform, to conceptualize and refine their snowflakes before sending them to print. The activity enhanced spatial reasoning as students visualized and manipulated three-dimensional structures, gaining a deeper understanding of geometric relationships, balance, and symmetry. They also engaged in critical problem-solving, iterating their designs to ensure structural integrity while fostering creativity through experimentation.

After successfully printing their designs, the fifth-grade students led a lesson for Kindergarteners, connecting the project to literacy through the book Snowflake Bentley by Jacqueline Briggs Martin, which celebrates uniqueness and individuality. The Kindergarten students sketched their own unique snowflakes before being guided through the 3D-printing process by their older peers.

This collaboration created an enriching, multi-generational learning environment where younger students explored foundational STEM concepts while older students honed leadership, mentorship, and communication skills. By simplifying complex ideas for their younger counterparts, the fifth graders reinforced their own understanding, building confidence in both their technological and interpersonal abilities.

“This collaboration aligns with the Vision 2030 cornerstones, as it promotes interdisciplinary approaches, helps build essential knowledge, and fosters a supportive community of learners,” said Challenge Program teacher Risa Miller. “Together, they ignite curiosity and creativity while developing technological skills in a fun and interactive way, making learning a shared and enriching experience.”

Valley Stream 24 continues to lead the way in integrating advanced technology into hands-on learning experiences, preparing students to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

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

Valley Stream South High School Musicians Perform for Valley Stream 24 Students

Students at Robert W. Carbonaro School in the Valley Stream 24 School District recently got a glimpse into their future musical journeys as they connected with orchestra, band, and chorus students from Valley Stream South High School.

“Our students were thrilled to experience a performance from South High School musicians and see what awaits them in their future music programs,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “We are grateful to the Valley Stream South students and their teachers for providing this inspiring and enriching opportunity. We also extend our appreciation to our dedicated music teachers for collaborating with the Valley Stream Central High School District and fostering a love for music in our students.”

Many of the visiting South High School musicians, who are alumni of Valley Stream 24, returned to Robert W. Carbonaro to encourage younger students to continue their musical studies as they transition to the Valley Stream Central High School District.

Valley Stream 24 Students Meet Motivational Speaker Rohan Murphy

Sixth-grade students across all schools in the Valley Stream 24 School District recently had the opportunity to hear the inspiring story of American Paralympian, wrestler, and motivational speaker Rohan Murphy. The nationally recognized speaker visited the district to share his powerful journey, offering students valuable lessons on perseverance, resilience, and determination. The visit was arranged by the district’s social worker, Ms. Karen Serro, who coordinated the event for all three schools.

“Rohan Murphy continues to inspire our students, sharing his experiences of overcoming challenges to become a successful athlete and role model,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “We are honored to welcome him to our schools as part of our commitment to fostering confidence, resilience, hard work, and dedication in our students.”

Despite facing the significant challenge of losing his legs at a young age, Murphy defied the odds, building a successful athletic career and competing as a wrestler at Penn State University. His inspiring journey has been featured by major media outlets, including ABC News, Sports Illustrated, 20/20, and Nike’s influential “No Excuses” campaign.

During his visit, Murphy engaged sixth-grade students in meaningful conversations about inclusivity, goal-setting, and the resilience required to overcome life’s obstacles.

William L. Buck School Welcomes the New Year with a Vibrant Cultural Celebration

Students at William L. Buck School in the Valley Stream 24 School District kicked off 2025 with enthusiasm and a celebration of culture, community, and new beginnings. The school recently hosted a New Year’s cultural celebration, providing students with an opportunity to set personal goals for the year ahead while sharing their diverse backgrounds and aspirations for the future.

“This event was a wonderful opportunity for our students to come together, embrace the start of a new year, and celebrate the rich cultures and backgrounds that make up the Valley Stream 24 community,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “As we continue hosting Family Forums in our district, events like this allow students and their families to share not only dishes from their cultures but also stories, traditions, and a deeper appreciation for the diversity that makes our district so special.”

“Our families brought in dishes that represented their cultures, creating a wonderful opportunity to share traditions and personal stories,” said Principal Michael DeBlasio. “Food has a unique way of bringing people together, and this celebration was a meaningful reminder of the unity and connection we share as a community.”

The event featured food, music, dancing, and a strong sense of community spirit. Students created and displayed vision boards to showcase their goals and what they look forward to most in 2025. Third through sixth grade students, along with their families, contributed a variety of foods and snacks, representing the many heritages that enrich the school district community.

Valley Stream 24 Awarded $500K Grant for Sensory Playground and Water Filtration Systems

The Valley Stream 24 School District has secured a $500,000 grant from Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages. The funding will be used to create a new sensory playground at Robert W. Carbonaro Elementary School and support the installation of two new water bottle filtration systems in all three district schools.

“Our Board of Education and entire district community are incredibly grateful to Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages for this generous and impactful grant,” said Superintendent Dr. Unal Karakas. “With the addition of our new 8:1:3 inclusive special education program at Robert W. Carbonaro School, we are excited to provide a playground that meets every child's individualized needs.

Additionally, we have already begun installing and utilizing water bottle filtration systems in each of our schools, ensuring our students have access to clean and healthy drinking water. Offering inclusive play spaces and access to healthy hydration aligns with our Board of Education's commitment to working with community legislators to create equitable and supportive learning environments for all students.”

Water bottle filtration systems are already being installed in all three district schools, providing students and staff with access to fresh, filtered drinking water. Meanwhile, construction on Robert W. Carbonaro’s new sensory playground is set to begin later this spring, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony planned upon completion. The playground will include an expansive jungle gym, a new inclusive swing set, and an interactive musical area featuring a xylophone, bells, and drums. These are all designed to foster an engaging and inclusive play experience for all students.

Valley Stream 24 Students Share Enthusiasm About District’s Redesigned Classrooms

Students across all three schools in the Valley Stream 24 School District are thriving in newly redesigned classrooms that foster student agency, collaboration, and technological skills. Developed as part of the district’s Vision 2030 initiative, these classrooms were thoughtfully designed with modern furniture, tools, and layouts to support 21st-century learning.

Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Unal Karakas, recently toured the redesigned classrooms alongside Student Council representatives to empower these student leaders to provide valuable input as the district continues its redesign efforts in alignment with Vision 2030. During the visit, Dr. Karakas engaged with students in the redesigned classrooms and held a focused discussion with the Student Council representatives, interviewing them to gather feedback on their experiences and perspectives regarding the new learning spaces.

“It was inspiring to visit each school alongside our Student Council representatives and hear their perspectives on how these redesigned classrooms are enhancing student education,” said Dr. Karakas. “Our students shared their excitement and pride in advanced technological tools and learning in these innovative spaces. Their feedback is vital as we work to further transform our classrooms into dynamic environments that support 21st-century learning.”

The redesigned classrooms feature interactive whiteboard desks for collaborative learning, calming corners for focused activities, stationary bikes that allow students to work while releasing energy, and a variety of modern tools designed to promote creativity, flexibility, and technological skills.

Robert W. Carbonaro School teachers Pamela Fowler and Christine Anson both expressed that it is wonderful to see their students enthusiastically participating in the new beautiful space, such as jotting down answers on whiteboard desks, enjoying a story in the cozy corner, or working together in small groups throughout the room.

Dr. Karakas engaged students at each school by asking how the redesigned classrooms are influencing their learning experiences. Students shared consistent feedback, highlighting the flexibility, comfort, and access to exciting tools and technology that allow them to interact with their teachers and peers more effectively.

“This spacious, bright room with new floors, tables, chairs, couches, and a rug made me feel comfortable and calm,” said Ellice John, Student Council Vice President at Robert W. Carbonaro School. “It feels like a place where you can truly be yourself.”

Student Council representatives also completed a Google Form survey to provide additional feedback. The results overwhelmingly indicated students’ excitement about the new learning spaces, with students noting how these modern classrooms make learning more engaging and enjoyable.

Valley Stream 24 Challenge Program Students Use 21ST-Century Skills to Create IKEA Furniture

Students in grades four through six in the Valley Stream 24 School District’s Challenge Program have been immersed in advanced coding and robotics by using 3D printing to design and create their own robots. Most recently, they applied their 21st-century skills, including coding, 3D printing, and architectural design, to build and design IKEA furniture, showcasing their creativity and problem-solving abilities.

“Our Challenge Program students had a unique and exciting opportunity to enhance their 21st-century skills by assembling their own IKEA furniture,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “This hands-on experience exemplifies our Vision 2030 initiative in action, fostering technological literacy and preparing students for the future by encouraging them to apply their skills to real-world projects.”

Students read blueprints to build and design desks, cabinets and other pieces of furniture. Challenge Program Teacher Risa Miller developed the idea after a recent Vision 2030 planning session, during which district staff came together to create innovative Vision 2030 pilot projects.

Such programs align with the cornerstones of Vision 2030 by emphasizing technological skills, collaboration, real-world experience, social and emotional health and adaptive leadership.

The district is excited to launch Vision 2030 pilot programs in the upcoming year, aiming to equip students with advanced skills essential for future success.

Valley Stream 24 Challenge Program Students Explore Culture and History at the Nassau County Museum

Sixth-grade students in the Valley Stream 24 School District’s Challenge Program recently embarked on an enriching field trip to the Nassau County Museum of Art in Roslyn, during which they explored and analyzed the culture and history on display.

“Visiting the Nassau County Museum of Art offered our students meaningful opportunities to engage with and analyze artwork through a multidisciplinary lens,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “This enriching experience will inspire and motivate our students as they prepare to create their own artwork for the Olympics of Visual Arts competition later this year.”

Students explored the creations of a diverse array of artists, styles, time periods and geographies during an inspiring field trip with their art teachers and Challenge Program Teacher Risa Miller. Throughout the experience, they learned to reflect on their own unique life experiences, strengthen observation skills and develop visual literacy, communication skills, critical thinking, self-expression and tolerance.

One museum exhibit, titled “Seeing Red,” guided students through the world of color theory and explained how colors affect perception, elicit different emotions and signify various symbolic qualities that impact the meaning of the artwork.

Students also had the special opportunity to meet with and interview renowned artist Louise Sloane, who has several works on display at the museum. Hearing from the acclaimed abstract artist impacted the students' attitudes toward learning and creativity as she described her creative perspective and approach to her craft. For example, when she repaints or makes changes in her artwork, she does not view these as mistakes but as a part of the process that make the work stronger.

“This experience inspired the students, who later reflected that they would try to remember Ms. Sloane's perspective when they struggled to reach a goal or when they felt they had made mistakes,” said Ms. Miller. “Additionally, Sloane revealed that she expresses deeply personal feelings through her artwork and she gets very emotional as she paints. I believe this will encourage students to embrace vulnerability and creativity, motivating them to find their unique voices in their art.”

This Spring, Challenge Program students will have the opportunity to showcase their creativity and artistic abilities during the New York State Art Teachers Association’s Olympics of the Visual Arts.