Valley Stream 24 Joins the League of Innovative Schools’ New Learning Collaboratives

The Valley Stream 24 School District is proud to announce its participation in two newly launched learning collaboratives—Student Voice and Engagement and Digital Equity—as part of the prestigious League of Innovative Schools. Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Unal Karakas, will collaborate with League members to engage in peer-to-peer learning, develop innovative solutions, and share best practices related to these critical topics.

Valley Stream 24 joins school and district leaders from 59 districts across 22 states participating in one or more learning collaboratives for the 2024-2025 school year.

“Joining forces with education leaders nationwide to amplify student voice, ensure equity in the digital age, and prepare our district for the future of educational innovation is a remarkable opportunity for Valley Stream 24,” said Dr. Karakas. “We are eager to collaborate with members of the League of Innovative Schools to further our shared vision of empowering students and fostering excellence in education.”

The League introduced three Learning Collaboratives this year: Student Voice and Engagement, Digital Equity, and High School Redesign. The Student Voice and Engagement Learning Collaborative provides educational leaders with a framework for building authentic student voice and engagement systems at the school and district levels. As a participant, Dr. Karakas and the Valley Stream 24 team will exchange ideas and strategies to incorporate student input into districtwide decisions.

This initiative builds on Valley Stream 24’s history of valuing student voices, such as the district recently allowing students to vote on menu options for breakfast and lunch.

“The Student Voice and Engagement Learning Collaborative is focused on bringing students to the forefront of discussions, decisions, and changes in public education,” said Dr. Julie Mitchell, former superintendent of the Rowland Unified School District in California and the collaborative’s founder. “For too long, students’ voices have not been prominent—or in some cases, present at all—in decisions and discussions about school processes, policies, and procedures. We hope to change that narrative by equipping schools and districts with practical ways to give students a seat at the table with leaders, staff, and other adults.”

The Digital Equity Learning Collaborative will focus on leadership for digital transformation, systems and resources, equitable access to devices and connectivity, digital competency, and leveraging technology to enhance learning. These areas align with the League’s five domains for digital equity framework.

League members will work collaboratively to refine and enhance their digital equity strategies through cross-functional discussions and shared learning experiences.

“I personally recognize the potential of technology as a tool to revolutionize education, safety, healthcare, and civic engagement, but only if everyone has an equal opportunity to use it,” said Dr. Nathan Fisher, superintendent of Roselle Public Schools in New Jersey and founder of the collaborative. “Unequal access to technology can limit opportunities for individuals and communities, which can hinder success across educational spaces, career opportunities, and even impact one’s civic participation. Ultimately, my vision is to create a more just and equitable society where technology elevates everyone, not just a select privy few. By working together through collaborative efforts, I believe we can make this vision a reality.”

Valley Stream 24 was inducted into the League of Innovative Schools during the League’s Fall 2024 Convening, hosted by the Lindsay Unified School District in Lindsay, California. The district is one of only 14 in New York to hold this prestigious membership.

The League of Innovative Schools, launched in 2011 by Digital Promise, is a national coalition of over 150 school districts committed to advancing education through innovation. Digital Promise’s impact spans over 4.4 million students and 180,000 teachers across 173 districts and 27 countries.

Valley Stream 24’s participation underscores its commitment to empowering students, promoting equity, and shaping the future of education.

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 School District Honors Veterans Day with Visit from Esteemed Local Veteran

Schools across the Valley Stream 24 School District recently celebrated Veterans Day by giving students the unique opportunity to meet George Catalanotto, a Vietnam veteran and esteemed Valley Stream resident. Mr. Catalanotto shared stories and reflections from his time in the military, highlighting the significance of Veterans Day and the importance of honoring those who have served.

“George Catalanotto is an incredible community member and speaker who has a profoundly positive impact on our students through his Veterans Day presentations,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “We thank him for inspiring our students and building heartfelt connections by sharing his experiences as a veteran.”

During his presentation, Mr. Catalanotto spoke about the meaning of Veterans Day and showcased personal items from his service. His insights offered students a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by service members and emphasized the importance of gratitude and respect for veterans.

After the presentation, students had the chance to connect with Mr. Catalanotto, asking him questions about his experiences. They also expressed their appreciation by creating heartfelt cards filled with positive messages, which he plans to share with other veterans.

A prominent figure in the community, Mr. Catalanotto was honored as the 2022 Valley Stream Herald Person of the Year. His service extends beyond his military years through his active involvement in local boards and committees, as well as his membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 1790 and Disabled American Veterans (DAV), underscoring his continued commitment to serving others.

Valley Stream 24 School District Launches Vision 2030 with Innovative Teacher Training

Teachers from each of the three schools in the Valley Stream 24 School District recently came together with district administrators for an engaging training session led by Ray McNulty, President of the Successful Practices Network (SPN) and former State of Vermont Commissioner of Education. This professional development workshop marks an important step in the district’s Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to foster a forward-thinking, 21st-century learning environment that equips students with essential skills for the future. During the session, staff worked alongside Mr. McNulty to explore and refine the district’s Vision 2030 statement, identify foundational cornerstones, and begin brainstorming pilots for innovative teaching strategies.

“As we implement Vision 2030 and progress toward our district’s future-focused goals, we are thrilled to have our teachers actively contributing to and enriching our shared vision,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “Our Board of Education dedicated significant effort over the summer to shape this vision, and now, our teachers and administrators are advancing it with pilot programs. We are grateful to Ray McNulty and the Successful Practices Network for their role in supporting our district’s journey toward educational innovation.”

The Vision 2030 statement articulates the district’s commitment: “In 2030, Valley Stream 24 schools, in partnership with the community, will be vibrant learning systems where educators design, develop, and cultivate environments that support the holistic growth of every child, empowering learners to thrive as innovative, digitally literate, and emotionally intelligent individuals.”

Key areas of focus for Vision 2030 include fostering essential 21st Century knowledge and skills, promoting relationships and team-based learning, encouraging real-world connections through community partnerships, supporting social-emotional learning and mental health, and nurturing creativity, holistic thinking, and adaptive leadership. Through this initiative, students will develop skills in technology and augmented intelligence as they approach subjects such as communication, literacy, mathematics, digital media, and data analysis. They will gain a deeper appreciation for diverse perspectives, engage in social-emotional learning, cultivate curiosity-driven problem-solving, and apply their knowledge to build meaningful relationships within their community and beyond.

The Successful Practices Network (SPN), an education nonprofit, supports educators nationwide by offering professional learning and coaching. SPN addresses a range of educational challenges, including the impact of artificial intelligence on learning, career and technical training, attendance, and more. Through its partnership with SPN, Valley Stream 24 is positioning itself on the cutting edge of educational practices nationwide.

William L. Buck Elementary School Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with Cultural Festival

William L. Buck Elementary School in the Valley Stream 24 School District recently held a vibrant Hispanic Heritage Festival to conclude Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrating the cumulative work and learning experiences students engaged in throughout the month.

“Our students have spent Hispanic Heritage Month exploring the many contributions and influences of the Hispanic community,” said William L. Buck Principal Michael DeBlasio. “The Hispanic Heritage Festival brought these efforts to life, showcasing Hispanic culture through music, food, art, and more. We are grateful to our dedicated teachers and parent volunteers for creating such an enriching experience for our students.”

Students participated by wearing attire representing their diverse backgrounds and cultures, embodying the spirit of cultural appreciation and unity. The celebration featured engaging activities, music, and traditional foods from various cultures and countries.

A highlight of the event was an art exhibit showcasing student creations inspired by Hispanic Heritage Month. Second- and third-grade students learned about the renowned Brazilian artist Romero Britto, known for his unique blend of pop art, cubism, and graffiti, with artwork that stands out for its bold colors and striking patterns.

Third graders studied Britto’s series of paintings inspired by Dutch painter Piet Mondrian, featuring primary colors, bold lines, and lively patterns, and created their own interpretations of Britto’s style. Meanwhile, second-grade students explored Britto’s distinctive use of color and patterns to design and decorate their initials in his bold, signature style.

Valley Stream 24 School District Employee is Honored at Board Meeting for Saving a Student’s Life

Kathleen Neske, a cafeteria aide at Brooklyn Avenue School in the Valley Stream 24 School District, recently saved the life of a student who was choking during lunch by quickly recognizing the emergency and performing the necessary life-saving protocol. Mrs. Neske was honored for her heroic actions and unwavering diligence at the district’s October Board of Education business meeting.

“Our Board of Education and the entire Valley Stream 24 community extend our deepest gratitude to Mrs. Neske for her quick thinking and remarkable bravery in a moment of crisis,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “Thanks to her swift and courageous actions, our student is safe and well. We are incredibly grateful to Mrs. Neske for exemplifying such dedication and care toward our students.”

Brooklyn Avenue School staff and community members attended the Board of Education meeting in recognition of Mrs. Neske, expressing heartfelt thanks for her selflessness and life-saving response. Her actions reflect the commitment and compassion that Valley Stream 24 strives to foster throughout the district.

Valley Stream 24 School District Celebrates School Board Recognition Week

Student Council members from all three schools in the Valley Stream 24 School District recently celebrated School Board Recognition Week by expressing their appreciation to the district’s Board of Education.

“Our Board of Education works tirelessly and with great passion to provide every student with the resources and opportunities to succeed,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “We are deeply grateful for their dedication, and I am so proud of our Student Council members for their thoughtful tribute and genuine expressions of gratitude.”

Student Council members shared words of appreciation and presented the Board with a video highlighting the Board’s positive impact on the district, including the redesign of three classrooms as part of Vision 2030. In addition, students crafted special thank-you gifts, including a creative representation of a Chromebook listing the district’s values—a symbol of the Board’s commitment to ensuring students have access to the latest technology.

The Valley Stream 24 School District Board of Education comprises President Armando Hernandez, Vice President Melissa Herrera, and Trustees Alisa Clark, John Maier, Cynthia Nuñez, Kimberly Wheeler, and Markus Wilson.

Valley Stream 24 School District Joins the League of Innovative Schools

The Valley Stream 24 School District was recently inducted into the League of Innovative Schools, a national coalition of over 150 school districts that are leading advancements in education. Valley Stream 24 is among just 14 districts in New York that are members of this organization. Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Unal Karakas, was honored during the induction, along with 29 other Superintendents representing their districts from across the country. The event was held at the League’s Fall 2024 Convening hosted by the Lindsay Unified School District in Lindsay, California.

“The League of Innovative Schools is highly selective, and we are honored to have been chosen to join this network of forward-thinking districts and communities nationwide. As we continue advancing our Vision 2030 initiative, our Board of Education and entire district community remain laser-focused on preparing students with the skills necessary for the 21st century. Being part of the League allows us to expand our resources, support, and collaborative opportunities as we continually innovate our educational practices,” said Dr. Karakas.

School districts are considered for the League of Innovative Schools after completing a rigorous application and interview process assessing the qualifications of the Superintendent and the District. Districts are selected based on their visionary leadership, commitment to equity and innovation, cutting-edge approach to education, significant accomplishments, and collaborative efforts.

Valley Stream 24 was selected for its dedication to fostering strong relationships with families and community partners, commitment to innovative teaching and learning, and preparation of students for successful futures. As a member of the League, Valley Stream 24 will have the opportunity to connect with educators from other districts, collaborate on forward-thinking ideas, and execute strategic plans that will help shape the future of education.

Valley Stream 24 was also recognized for hosting family forums at each school, which provide students and their families the opportunity to share aspects of their cultures, celebrate diversity, and foster an appreciation for the district community’s rich cultural history. Embedding culture into curriculum, learning, and experiences has been a major focus for the district.

Superintendent Dr. Karakas connected with district officials across the country to discuss trending topics in education and collaborate on ways to incorporate technology and innovation in their own districts. The League hosts monthly Zoom meetings to continue the work and discussions among members.

While in California for the fall convening, Dr. Karakas visited several schools in the Lindsay Unified School District and saw firsthand how it has transformed its educational practices. Student ambassadors gave Dr. Karakas a tour of various classrooms and showcased their innovative approach to learning.

“It was inspiring to see a learner-centered approach where students actively track their goals, progress, and achievements,” Dr. Karakas said.

The League of Innovative Schools was launched in 2011 by Digital Promise, a global nonprofit working to expand educational opportunities around the world. Since its inception, Digital Promise has impacted over 4.4 million students and 180,000 teachers across 173 districts and 27 countries.

Valley Stream 24 School District Welcomes Juanita Walters as New Director of Pupil Services

(SEPTEMBER 2024)—Students at the Valley Stream 24 School District are seeing a warm new face in their hallways this year as the district recently welcomed Juanita Walters as its new Director of Pupil Services. Ms. Walters is an esteemed leader with a passion for supporting students and their families. She introduced herself to the community during an August meet-and-greet, encouraging families to connect with her to share their feedback and goals for their children.

“My work in education has shown me how vital it is to support families and understand the unique resources each student needs to succeed. There’s a strong connection between students’ lives outside of school and their performance in the classroom,” Ms. Walters said. “I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to focus on pupil services and engage in the meaningful work of uplifting and inspiring both students and their families.”

Ms. Walters brings a wealth of experience in special education, social-emotional learning, behavior intervention, and English as a New Language (ENL). She has spent a decade with the New York City Department of Education, where she most recently served as an assistant principal, and previously worked as a special education teacher in more restrictive settings. Ms. Walters’ passion for education was inspired by her fifth-grade teacher, who gave her the support she needed to thrive after moving to a new community.

Ms. Walters holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Queens College, a master’s degree in urban education and special education from Long Island University, and an advanced master’s certificate in school building leadership from the College of St. Rose in Brooklyn. She is currently pursuing her doctorate at St. Peter’s University in Jersey City, with a dissertation focused on supporting students with disabilities.

The Valley Stream 24 School District congratulates Ms. Walters on her new role and warmly welcomes her as she embarks on this exciting chapter with the community.

Valley Stream 24 School District Participates in 9/11 Memorial Ceremony

(SEPTEMBER 2024)— Members of the Valley Stream 24 School District recently honored the lives lost and sacrifices made on September 11th, 2001, during a ceremony commemorating its 23rd anniversary, hosted by the Village of Valley Stream.

“Commemorating the anniversary of September 11th is as important as ever. As a district, we are honored to participate in the village’s ceremony to honor those we lost, while also helping our students understand the important lessons learned from that day—lessons of kindness, heroism, helping others, and coming together as a community,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas.

Dr. Karakas applauded students from the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, who proudly carried American flags and demonstrated their respect during the ceremony.

Teacher Mr. Matthew Roth and Director of Facilities Charles Brocher also participated in the event as volunteers with the Valley Stream Fire Department.

Students across the district took time in their classrooms to reflect on the events of September 11th, 2001, learning about the unity, empathy, and resilience that emerged in its aftermath.

Valley Stream 24 School District Rings in the 2024-25 School Year

(SEPTEMBER 2024)— Schools in the Valley Stream 24 School District recently welcomed students back for an inspiring start to the 2024-2025 school year.

“We had such a successful opening, and it was wonderful to see our students returning with smiles on their faces,” said Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Unal Karakas. “This year, we are excited to continue making the connection and working collaboratively to ensure a successful, rewarding, and productive year ahead. By focusing on building strong relationships and fostering a supportive learning environment, we are preparing our students for the future, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving world.”

Students and faculty at Brooklyn Avenue Elementary School, Robert W. Carbonaro Elementary School, and William L. Buck Elementary School had a joyous first day back, filled with enthusiasm from teachers and staff who greeted their students and set the stage for a meaningful and engaging year.

During visits to classrooms across the district, Dr. Karakas shared words of encouragement and introduced students and staff to Dr. Juanita Walters, the district’s new Director of Pupil Services. To support a smooth transition into the new school year, teachers and staff actively engaged students in conversations about their first-day experiences and prepared them for a successful year ahead.

This year, Valley Stream 24 School District expands on its theme of "Make the Connection" by introducing "Make the Connection - Innovating Our Future." This enhanced theme aligns with the district's Vision 2030 goals, which focus on preparing students for future success by creating a dynamic, 21st-century learning environment. Over the summer, the Board of Education and District Administration have worked diligently to prioritize and advance the Vision 2030 initiative.

Valley Stream 24 Welcomes Michael DeBlasio as New Principal of William L. Buck School

(AUGUST 2024)— On a bright August afternoon, the William L. Buck School community joyfully welcomed their new principal, Michael DeBlasio. Throughout the day, Principal DeBlasio greeted students with popsicles, taking time to meet them and their families personally.

“It is an honor to welcome Principal DeBlasio to the William L. Buck School and the Valley Stream 24 community,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “We are confident his vast experience and passion for education will be a great asset. Our students, families, and staff have already embraced him warmly, and we look forward to the strong connections he will build throughout the year.”

Mr. DeBlasio is a respected administrator who previously served as principal at Park Avenue Elementary School in the North Bellmore School District. This new role marks a return to the Valley Stream community, where he was formerly the assistant principal at Forest Road School in the Valley Stream 30 School District.

“I couldn’t be happier returning to Valley Stream and joining Valley Stream District 24,” Mr. DeBlasio shared. “The strong sense of community and collaborative problem-solving make Valley Stream 24 a welcoming and supportive environment. Everyone here is committed to working together and lifting each other up to achieve shared goals. I am thrilled to be part of this incredible community and excited to serve with pride.”

Mr. DeBlasio began his career as a special education teacher in Queens Community School District 26, where he taught for ten years before transitioning into administration. He holds both a master’s degree in education and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Molloy College and earned his school building and district leadership certifications from the College of St. Rose. His passion for special education was ignited during his time at Molloy University, where he also worked in an after-school program at the Roslyn JCC. This experience confirmed his calling in special education, leading him to dedicate his career to the field.

As principal, Mr. DeBlasio aims to leverage his expertise to implement a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) at the school, focusing on intervention, support, as well as special education services. His approach to 21st-century learning, aligned with the district’s Vision 2030 initiative, involves utilizing technology to enhance both lessons and student interactions to provide ongoing enrichment.

The Valley Stream 24 School District congratulates Mr. DeBlasio on his new role and extends a warm welcome to him as he begins this exciting chapter with the community.

Valley Stream 24 School District Sets Vision 2030 in Motion with Summer Retreat

(JULY 2024)— The Valley Stream 24 School District Board of Education and Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Unal Karakas, recently embarked on a retreat to set priorities and plans for Vision 2030, the district’s new initiative aimed at adapting to future needs and cultivating a 21st-century learning environment for its students.

“The Valley Stream 24 School District is embarking on an exciting and important journey with Vision 2030,” said Dr. Karakas. “This vision encompasses input from our stakeholders, and we are expanding it each year. We are working diligently to shape a successful future for our students and staff, engaging them in the 21st century and prioritizing our shared successes. Our Board of Education worked incredibly hard this summer to establish priorities and ideas around Vision 2030. We extend our gratitude to Ray McNulty from the Successful Practices Network for leading such an impactful session.”

During the retreat, the Board of Education and Dr. Karakas developed strategies and plans for Vision 2030, focusing on how the district can support educators and students in the 21st century. In alignment with Vision 2030, the district is also redesigning one classroom in each school building this summer to become innovative learning hubs. The three redesigned classrooms in the district are expected to be completed in time for the start of the 2024-25 school year.

Valley Stream 24 School District Swears in Board of Education at Annual Reorganization Meeting

(JULY 2024)—The Valley Stream 24 School District Board of Education recently held its annual reorganization meeting to swear in its members and welcome the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. Newly elected member Alisa Clark was sworn in for her first year as trustee. Armando Hernandez was sworn in as president, and Melissa Herrera was sworn in as vice president. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas and District Clerk Jennie Padilla were also sworn in for the new year. Attorney Chris Shishko was present to administer the oaths to all.

“This past school year brought with it many successes and accomplishments. I’m honored to be leading our incredible district with such a hard-working, passionate group of Board of Education Trustees,” said Dr. Karakas. “We are already preparing for the 2024-2025 school year and are so excited for what’s to come.”

Valley Stream 24 School District Celebrates its Graduating Classes

(JUNE 2024)—Valley Stream Union Free School District 24 recently held commencement ceremonies to honor the 2024 graduating classes of Robert W. Carbonaro School, William L. Buck School, and Brooklyn Avenue School. The graduates were recognized for their hard work and dedication during their elementary school years, each receiving a diploma to mark this significant milestone. Family and friends were able to celebrate and capture these memorable moments.

“Each of our graduates worked so hard to get to this point in their lives, and we are so proud of the memories made, goals reached, and experiences had by this year’s graduating classes,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “The theme in our district is ‘Make the Connection,’ and I can’t wait for the many connections to be made and journeys that lie ahead for our graduating students in the Valley Stream Central High School District and beyond.”

Valley Stream School District 24 Board of Education President Donna LaRocco, along with the Board of Education trustees, Superintendent of Schools, principals, administrators, and staff, cheered on the graduates, their families, and friends at the ceremonies.

Valley Stream School District 24 wishes all their graduating sixth-grade students great success in the Central High School District.

Valley Stream 24 School District Honors Retiring Board of Education President Donna LaRocco

(JUNE 2024)— After serving the Valley Stream 24 Board of Education and community for 15 years, Donna LaRocco retired on June 30th. Mrs. LaRocco has served as president, vice president, and trustee on the Board of Education, as well as a trustee on the Valley Stream Central High School District Board of Education. She will be succeeded by Alisa Clark, a district parent and William L. Buck PTA member, who was elected to the Valley Stream 24 School District Board of Education in May.

“Mrs. LaRocco is leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication to the Valley Stream community,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “She is an exemplary Board of Education member who consistently showed up for her community and lent a hand wherever one was needed. The Board of Education and our district thank her for her dedication to our community and wish her happiness in her retirement!”

Mrs. LaRocco has been a long-time resident of Valley Stream 24, raising her children in the community with her husband Anthony. Before serving on the Valley Stream 24 Board of Education, she was a PTA member for 18 years at the William L. Buck School.

Throughout her tenure, Mrs. LaRocco served on various Board of Education committees. She received multiple citations from local legislators and lobbied for educational causes. At the recent June 5th Board of Education business meeting, Mrs. LaRocco was honored with a citation from Assemblyman C. William Gaylor III.

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

Former NY Mets Pitcher Nelson Figueroa Inspires Robert W. Carbonaro Students During Special Visit

(JUNE 2024)— Fifth-grade students at Robert W. Carbonaro School in the Valley Stream 24 School District recently had the exciting opportunity to practice their baseball skills with former New York Mets pitcher Nelson Figueroa. Before stepping up to the plate, Figueroa spoke to students about the importance of school, hard work, dedication, and character.

“Developing our students’ confidence and resilience is a core principle of what we do at the Valley Stream 24 School District,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “It’s crucial for students to hear the challenges and successes of a role model like Nelson Figueroa, who has experience setting and reaching his goals. Our students thoroughly enjoyed meeting him and hearing the advice and encouragement he garnered through his journey and career.”

Nelson Figueroa’s baseball career began in 1995 when he was drafted by the Mets. Since then, he has also played for the Arizona Diamondbacks, Philadelphia Phillies, Milwaukee Brewers, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Houston Astros. The 50-year-old athlete also has a personal connection to the Valley Stream community; his nephew Zenon Figueroa is a student at Robert W. Carbonaro School.

Mr. Figueroa also has a personal connection to the Valley Stream community; his nephew Zenon Figueroa is a student at Robert W. Carbonaro School. Figueroa shared his journey to the New York Mets, inspired by his father, a softball player, to start playing baseball as a young child. One of the most important lessons he imparted to students was that success can’t exist without failure. He spoke about overcoming setbacks and losses throughout his career before achieving his goals and appreciating his progress.

After sharing his journey, students asked several questions about his career, his inspirations, and what it took to become a professional athlete. Following the assembly, students broke into teams and played a game of Wiffle ball with Figueroa as pitcher. They practiced catching, throwing, and running the bases with his guidance and support.

Valley Stream 24 Assistant Superintendent Named President of ASBO-NY

(JUNE 2024)—Dr. Jack Mitchell, the Assistant Superintendent of Business for the Valley Stream 24 School District, was recently inaugurated as president of the New York chapter of the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO-NY).

“Dr. Mitchell goes above and beyond to sharpen his skills in school finance and regularly brings new ideas to the Valley Stream 24 School District,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “Our Board of Education and our entire District are incredibly proud of him for this significant accomplishment and are confident that he will make important contributions in this role.”

A long-term member of ASBO-NY, Dr. Mitchell is dedicated to developing educational ideas and networking with other school business officials. Through his involvement with ASBO-NY, he recently discovered an opportunity to join a group of educators to build a sustainable school in Guatemala. Last winter, Dr. Mitchell and around 40 other volunteers participated in the second Lifetouch Memory Mission in Guatemala, constructing “bottle classrooms”—sustainable classrooms made using plastic bottles and inorganic trash.

Dr. Mitchell will begin his term as president of ASBO-NY next month. ASBO-NY is a nonprofit membership organization affiliated with the Association of School Business Officials International and chartered by the New York State Board of Regents. Since 1948, it has been committed to fostering connections between its members, supporting their professional growth, and serving as the leading resource for school finance.

Valley Stream 24 Principal Earns School Administrators Association’s Administrator of the Year Award

(JUNE 2024)— Dr. Scott Comis, principal of Brooklyn Avenue School in the Valley Stream 24 School District, was recently awarded the prestigious Administrator of the Year award by the School Administrators Association’s New York State Region 2. Region 2 represents Long Island. Dr. Comis was formally honored and presented with the award during the organization’s recognition ceremony at City Cellar in Westbury.

“Dr. Comis is truly deserving of this incredible honor for his immense contributions to our district and his commitment to ensuring student success,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “As an outstanding leader of our district for over 17 years, Dr. Comis embodies the care, nurture, and leadership needed to support our students and staff. Our Board of Education and our entire District are extremely proud of him for achieving this milestone and grateful to the School Administrators Association for recognizing his exceptional efforts.”

This award honors an administrator in Region 2 who has provided exceptional service to education. Dr. Comis was nominated by his colleagues for his significant contributions to education and his outstanding efforts in supporting and developing innovative programs that have improved student learning outcomes.

Valley Stream 24 Student Councils Participate in Food Tasting to Help Shape Future Lunch Options

(JUNE 2024)— Student Council members at all three schools in the Valley Stream 24 School District recently participated in a food tasting event to determine the menu options that will be offered throughout the district next year. This tasting is part of the district’s ongoing efforts to include students in discussions about their menu offerings.

“We value our students’ feedback, and the Board of Education and our district are committed to including our students’ voices in shaping our visions and goals for the future,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “Our food tasting was one of the many ways in which we aim to foster student dialogue about the decisions impacting their lives every day at school. We thank them for helping us create a customized menu with their input.”

Students had the opportunity to try four different meal options, with the Caprese flatbread and "breakfast during lunch" options being the most favored. These popular choices are now being considered for next year’s menus. After sampling each meal, students submitted their feedback to both the district and Whitsons, the district’s food service provider.

The event included a visit from a representative and chef from Whitsons, who educated students about school food nutritional requirements and the process of curating school meal menus and choices.

Valley Stream 24 School District Art Students Shine at the Olympics of Visual Arts

(MAY 2024)—Students participating in the Sixth-Grade Challenge Program at the Valley Stream 24 School District recently showcased their creativity and artistic abilities during the New York State Art Teachers Association’s Olympics of the Visual Arts in Saratoga Springs.

“The Olympics of Visual Arts was an incredible opportunity for our students to shine in a friendly and spirited competition with student artists from across the state,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “Our students stood out for their creativity, ingenuity, and passion in brainstorming and pursuing their project ideas. We are so proud of all our students for participating and thank our Challenge and art teachers for their guidance and preparation.”

During this day-long celebration of creativity and imagination, students conducted in-depth research and developed solutions to problems in the areas of illustration, painting, sculpture, drawing, and architecture. Documenting their historical research and analysis in a portfolio, students showcased the critical thinking, decision-making, and innovation that went into their original and inventive concepts.

Nathan Francisque earned second place in the illustration category for his project, "Building the Foundation of the Future," and Madelyn Campbell placed third in the sculpture category for her project, "Orchestrina of the Gilded Age." Judges also lauded Valley Stream 24 students for their impressive brainstorming abilities and the meticulous and coherent research that went into their projects.

The competition saw Valley Stream 24’s sixth-grade students competing at the middle school level against seventh and eighth-grade students from across New York. The district’s Art and Challenge departments worked collaboratively to prepare the students for the event. Challenge teacher Risa Miller and art teachers Jessica Rosenthal, Nicole Barci, and Leighanne Jaronczyk guided the students during the creative problem-solving competition.

The event was attended by over 50 professional artists, architects, graphic designers, fashion designers, illustrators, sculptors, photographers, and visual arts educators.