Valley Stream 24 Students Showcase Innovation and Creativity During “Shark Tank” Event

Students in Marissa Campo’s class in the Valley Stream 24 School District put their creativity, ingenuity and passion on full display as they showcased their own original inventions during a mock “Shark Tank” presentation.

The event, held on May 22nd, featured a panel of judges that included Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas, Principal Michael DeBlasio and teachers Christine Brenneis and Catherine Herr. Parents and fellow students also attended the event to cheer on the young inventors and learn about their creative ideas.

During the presentations, students confidently demonstrated their inventions, explained the inspiration behind their designs and answered questions from the panel. The experience encouraged students to think critically, solve problems creatively and develop strong communication skills.

“This event was a wonderful example of student innovation and authentic learning in action,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “Our students demonstrated impressive creativity, confidence and determination as they brought their ideas to life. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and the supportive learning environment created by their teachers.”

The mock “Shark Tank” experience provided students with an engaging opportunity to combine imagination with real-world presentation skills while celebrating innovation and collaboration in 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 #InnovatingOurFuture

William L. Buck Schools Hosts an Evening of Cultural Celebration and Connection

William L. Buck School in the Valley Stream 24 School District recently hosted a memorable evening celebrating family, culture and community through food. Organized by the school’s 6th Grade Parent Committee, the May 19th event was titled “A Taste of Buck” and brought together students, families and staff members for a night of cultural appreciation and connection.

Families proudly shared dishes that reflected their heritage and traditions, giving attendees the opportunity to experience a variety of flavors and customs from around the world. Foods inspired by Ghana, the Dominican Republic, Guyana, Puerto Rico, Italy and Thailand were enjoyed throughout the evening.

“There was no better way to celebrate the spirit of William L. Buck School than by bringing together family, friends, and food,” said William L. Buck Principal Michael DeBlasio. “It was truly a memorable evening filled with celebration, unity, and community pride.”

The event highlighted the rich diversity within the Buck School community while fostering unity and understanding among families and staff. “A Taste of Buck” served as a meaningful celebration of the cultures that make the school community unique and vibrant.

Brooklyn Avenue School Welcomes Home Captain Lisette Lugo During Heartfelt Celebration

Students and staff at Brooklyn Avenue School in the Valley Stream 24 School District proudly welcomed home Captain Lisette Lugo after nearly eight months of active-duty service in the Armed Forces.

In a heartfelt and emotional visit on May 18th, Captain Lugo returned to her daughter’s classroom, where students and faculty greeted her with warm smiles, handmade messages of gratitude, and an outpouring of appreciation for her service and sacrifice.

The special homecoming created a memorable moment for all in attendance as the school community came together to honor Captain Lugo’s dedication to both her country and her family. Her daughter’s classmates enthusiastically celebrated the occasion, demonstrating the strong sense of support and unity that defines the Brooklyn Avenue School community.

“Brooklyn Avenue School extends its sincere appreciation to Captain Lugo for her dedication, sacrifice, and service to our country while celebrating the strength and resilience of military families within our school community,” said Brooklyn Avenue School Principal Dr. Scott Comis.

The visit served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices military families make and the importance of recognizing those who serve our nation.

For the students, staff, and families of Brooklyn Avenue School, the celebration was a heartfelt tribute to courage, resilience and community.

Valley Stream 24 Sixth-Grade Students Explore the Ashokan Center

Sixth-grade students from all three schools in the Valley Stream 24 School District embarked on an immersive educational adventure earlier this month during at the Ashokan Center in Olivebridge, New York.

Students from Brooklyn Avenue School, William L. Buck School, and Robert W. Carbonaro School came together for a day filled with outdoor exploration, hands-on learning, and opportunities to build lasting friendships. Set on the Ashokan Center’s scenic 385-acre preserve, students participated in a variety of engaging activities, including hiking excursions, canoeing adventures, and interactive encounters with local wildlife and animals native to the region.

Throughout the day, students also enjoyed team-building games and social activities designed to help them connect with peers from across the district. The memorable experience concluded with students gathering around a campfire to roast marshmallows and reflect on a day filled with discovery, collaboration, and fun.

Beyond providing an enriching educational experience, the trip fostered new friendships that will continue to grow as students advance together through middle and high school.

“The Ashokan Center trip gave our students an incredible opportunity to learn beyond the classroom while developing meaningful connections with one another,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “Experiences like this encourage curiosity, teamwork, and environmental stewardship, all of which are essential components of a well-rounded education. We are proud to provide opportunities that inspire lifelong learning and create lasting memories for our students.”

The Valley Stream 24 School District remains committed to offering educational experiences that extend beyond traditional classroom instruction and support students’ academic, social, and emotional growth. The shared adventure at the Ashokan Center reflects the district and Board of Education’s dedication to fostering intellectual development, community building and environmental awareness.

Valley Stream 24 School District Schools are Highlighted by Better Outcomes Research Study

All three schools in the Valley Stream 24 School District have been recognized for achieving exceptionally strong academic outcomes among economically disadvantaged students over the past three school years, drawing the attention of a national education research initiative focused on identifying effective practices that support student success.

Dr. Manya Bouteneff, Executive Director of Better Outcomes Research, recently contacted the district as part of a new study examining schools serving student populations with 40% or more economically disadvantaged students. The initiative seeks to better understand the instructional strategies, school practices, and systems that are leading to high levels of student achievement in districts serving historically underserved populations.

As part of this outreach, Robert W. Carbonaro, William L. Buck School and Brooklyn Avenue School were all identified as demonstrating exceptionally strong academic performance among economically disadvantaged students over the last three years. Better Outcomes Research will be interviewing Brooklyn Avenue School Principal Dr. Scott Comis and William L. Buck School Principal Michael DeBlasio to position them as exemplary leaders in this study and learn more about the practices contributing to these outcomes.

“We at Valley Stream 24 are incredibly proud of this acknowledgment. It speaks to the strength of our data-driven instructional practices in the last three years, the dedication of our administrators and staff, and our continued focus on ensuring success for all learners,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “This is also an opportunity to position Valley Stream 24 as a contributor to the broader educational community by helping to inform best practices for other districts.”

District officials noted that the success of students across Valley Stream 24 is driven by a strong focus on student-centered instruction, 21st-century learning, data-informed decision-making, targeted academic supports, social-emotional learning and meaningful partnerships with families and the community.

Across the district, educators have worked intentionally to create learning environments where all students are challenged, supported and encouraged to reach their full potential. Through collaborative instructional practices, enrichment opportunities, intervention supports and a culture of high expectations, students have continued to demonstrate impressive academic growth and achievement.

The Better Outcomes Research study aims to identify successful strategies in the past three years that can be shared broadly with professional organizations and schools nationwide to help improve outcomes for economically disadvantaged students across the country.

For Valley Stream 24, the recognition serves as both a celebration of student success and a reflection of the district’s continued commitment to educational excellence for all learners.

Robert W. Carbonaro Rings in the Warm Weather with Annual Spring Chorus Concert

Robert W. Carbonaro School in the Valley Stream 24 School District recently welcomed the warm weather with its annual spring chorus concert, delighting families and staff with an evening of music and creativity.

Led by music teacher Mrs. Ashley Wilkey, the school’s chorus performed a selection of cheerful songs that celebrated the spirit of the season. Adding to the excitement, students dressed as their favorite characters while performing beloved classics from The Wizard of Oz, bringing energy and imagination to the stage.

The concert showcased the students’ musical talents and enthusiasm, while also highlighting the importance of the arts in education.

Events like this spring concert give students the opportunity to express themselves creatively and build confidence through performance. The district is proud of its students and grateful to Mrs. Wilkey for creating such a memorable experience for the entire school community.

The annual concert was met with enthusiastic applause from audience members, making it a joyful celebration of music, teamwork and the arrival of spring.

William L. Buck School Celebrates Student Creativity During Annual Poetry Contest

Students at William L. Buck School in the Valley Stream 24 School District recently showcased their creativity, imagination and love of language during the school’s annual Poetry Contest.

The contest celebrated the talents, passion and originality of student writers across multiple grade levels, providing participants with an opportunity to express themselves through poetry. Students shared thoughtful and inspiring pieces that reflected a wide range of themes, emotions and perspectives.

Teachers and staff praised the students for their enthusiasm and dedication to the writing process, noting the contest as a meaningful way to encourage literacy, creativity and self-expression within the school community.

“We are incredibly proud of our student poets for sharing their voices and talents through this year’s contest,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “Events like this highlight the creativity of our students and reinforce the importance of fostering confidence, communication and artistic expression in our schools.”

The annual Poetry Contest continues to be a cherished tradition at William L. Buck School, inspiring students to explore the power of words while celebrating the arts and academic achievement. The event is led by Ms. Karen Mylan and the reading interventionists in the district.

Valley Stream 24 Students Demonstrate Innovation, Creativity and Passion at Olympics of Visual Arts

Sixth-grade students in the Valley Stream 24 School District’s Challenge Program had an inspiring and rewarding experience at the New York State Art Teachers Association’s Olympics of the Visual Arts in Saratoga Springs, where district teams earned awards in several categories.

Led by District Challenge and Enrichment Teacher Amanda Plutner and art teachers from each school, Valley Stream 24 students competed against 75 middle school teams from across New York State in categories including Illustration, Fashion, Painting, Design, Architecture, Sculpture and Drawing.

William L. Buck students JiaYin Z. and Kal-El D. earned first place in the drawing category and the coveted Hyndman Creativity Award for their drawing project titled “Forest of Defense.” Inspired by research on animal camouflage near Niagara Falls, students used invisible ink to give viewers the interactive experience of uncovering hidden animals throughout the artwork.

Second place in the architecture category went to William L. Buck students Parker C., Nicholas R. and Shira W. for their project “Pollinator Conservation Conservatory.” Their model school design was inspired by the structure of a beehive, emphasizing the importance of protecting pollinators and preserving their habitats.

Third place in the sculpture category went to William L. Buck students Gabrielle C., Benjamin G. and Milan S. for their piece “Majestic Mellifera Mother.” The mixed-media tiled sculpture celebrated the queen bee as the powerful center of the hive, blending scientific research and artistic influence.

Third place in the painting category went to Brooklyn Avenue School students Brianna G. and Sophia S. for their piece “Canyon of Light: Where Light Meets the Forest.” The mixed-media artwork was inspired by Letchworth State Park and showcased a split day-and-night scene of deer in their habitat to show how light, emotion, and human impact shape experiences in nature.

Brooklyn Avenue School students Ryan Q. and Sienna W. showcased their design project titled “Earth in Four Courses,” which featured an interactive picnic blanket divided into four seasonal passages. They used natural materials, including sticks and bark, to show how cultures and nature are connected across the world.

Robert W. Carbonaro students Manuel G., Ellice J. and Nigel L. showcased their fashion design expertise with their handmade dress, titled “Ghost Net.” Their inventive garment was constructed entirely out of paper and origami designs to contrast a vibrant, healthy ocean with a tangled net-inspired skirt as an illustration of environmental awareness and the impact of pollution on marine life.

Robert W. Carbonaro students Angel C. and Adam E. created an illustration project titled “A Quilted Night: The Moonlit Owl.” Inspired by Owl Moon by Jane Yolen and the storytelling quilts of Faith Ringgold, their piece used textured materials, layered design and illustrated quilt squares to visually capture the quiet magic, warmth and anticipation of a snowy night spent owling.

The Valley Stream 24 School District proudly congratulates all of the students who competed and celebrates the incredible accomplishments of those who earned awards at this prestigious statewide event. It also thanks Ms. Amanda Plutner and all art teachers for their dedication to this prestigious event.

Valley Stream 24 Comes Together for Annual Sixth-Grade Hockey Tournament

Students from all three schools in the Valley Stream 24 School District came together for a day filled with exciting and friendly competition at the district’s Annual Sixth-Grade Hockey Tournament, held at Valley Stream South High School. The students demonstrated their athletic talent, teamwork and community pride as they were cheered on by their families, teachers, district staff and peers.

The event brought together six spirited teams: two from each school: Robert W. Carbonaro, William L. Buck, and Brooklyn Avenue. Following a double-elimination format, teams went head-to-head in a series of high-energy matches. An intense semi-final match saw teams from William L. Buck and Robert W. Carbonaro head into overtime after a tie, finishing with William L. Buck advancing to the final match against Robert W. Carbonaro’s first-seeded team. In the end, the Robert W. Carbonaro team finished with the victory.

Demonstrating exceptional sportsmanship and determination, the students made the tournament an unforgettable experience. The stands were filled with enthusiastic supporters, including family members, Board of Education trustees, the Superintendent of Schools, district administrators, staff, and friends, all cheering loudly and proudly for their schools.

The success of the tournament was made possible thanks to the unwavering support and coordination of the district’s dedicated physical education teachers, principals, and school staff, whose efforts created a positive and uplifting experience for all involved.

The Annual Sixth-Grade Hockey Tournament continues to be a highlight of the school year, reinforcing the district’s commitment to physical education, character-building, and community engagement.

Valley Stream 24 Superintendent Dr. Unal Karakas Promotes Literacy Through Read Aloud

Valley Stream 24 School District Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas recently visited Maureen Fitzgerald’s third-grade classroom to share a special reading experience with students and foster a love of literacy among the young learners.

During the visit, Dr. Karakas read aloud to the class and engaged students in thoughtful discussion about key literary elements, including character traits, character changes and the main idea of a story. The interactive session encouraged students to think critically about the text and demonstrate their comprehension skills.

“It is always a joy to read to students and give them a meaningful opportunity to connect with literature in an engaging and supportive environment,” Dr. Karakas said. “Experiences like these help students build confidence as readers while strengthening critical thinking, communication and a lifelong appreciation for learning. Seeing our students actively engaged in discussion, making connections to the story and sharing their ideas with excitement is a powerful reminder of the importance of literacy in shaping future success.”

The district continues to emphasize literacy development as a foundational component of student success and welcomes opportunities for staff and school leaders to connect directly with students through meaningful classroom experiences that promote engagement, curiosity and a love of learning. Through Vision 2030 and the district’s continued focus on innovative and student-centered learning experiences, Valley Stream 24 remains committed to fostering strong literacy skills and cultivating joyful, engaging classroom environments where all students can thrive.

Valley Stream 24 Explores Ancient Egypt Civilization Through Interdisciplinary Lesson

Students at William L. Buck School recently explored ancient Egyptian civilization through an immersive, project-based experience that brought together multiple subject areas, including through research, design, creation and presentation. The WLB Sixth-Grade Team has embraced the opportunities of this year’s newly introduced departmentalized model to design the interdisciplinary unit, titled Time Travelers: Journey Through Ancient Egypt.

“This work reflects our shared commitment to developing students who effectively utilize digital tools to enhance their learning, collaborate meaningfully with peers, and think forward as innovative problem-solvers,” said WLB Principal Michael DeBlasio. “This is a a powerful representation of the collaborative, and engaging learning experiences taking place across Valley Stream 24 each day.”

Utilizing newly redesigned learning spaces, classroom teachers worked in close partnership with the ENL teacher and the support staff to guide students through a dynamic learning process. Students examined ancient artifacts, daily life and modern-day contributions of Egyptian culture, while also incorporating elements of blueprinting to deepen critical thinking and real-world application skills.

This initiative was grounded in the district’s Vision 2030 innovative cornerstones. The project reflects the district’s commitment to developing students who effectively use digital tools, collaborate meaningfully with peers, and think forward as innovative problem-solvers.

Jovia Credit Union Partners with Valley Stream 24 to Promote Financial Literacy

The Valley Stream 24 School District recently welcomed Jovia Credit Union for a community-focused event centered on financial education and smart saving habits. The Brooklyn Avenue School PTA partnered with Jovia to put together this program, aiming to provide families with practical tools and knowledge to better manage their finances and plan for the future.

Representatives from Jovia Credit Union engaged attendees with accessible, informative discussions about budgeting, saving strategies, and financial planning. The event created an opportunity for community members to ask questions and gain valuable insights into building financial stability.

“We are grateful for the partnership between Jovia Credit Union and the Brooklyn Avenue School PTA in bringing this important program to our community,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “Financial literacy is an essential life skill, and opportunities like this help empower our families with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions.”

The Valley Stream 24 School District remains dedicated to fostering strong community partnerships that enrich the lives of its students and families.

Valley Stream 24 Engages Staff in Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) Training

The Valley Stream 24 School District continues to strengthen its commitment to student achievement and support through ongoing professional development in the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS).

Staff recently participated in the third installment of MTSS training, held at Brooklyn Avenue School led by John Boniello, Director of Pupil Services, and Dr. Christopher Keogh, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction.

MTSS is a comprehensive, data-driven framework designed to provide targeted academic, behavioral and social-emotional support to all students. The model emphasizes early identification, ongoing progress monitoring, and collaboration among educators to improve student outcomes.

“Our continued investment in MTSS training reflects our dedication to ensuring every student receives the support they need to thrive,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas said. “By bringing our teams together, we are building a cohesive, data-informed approach that empowers educators and strengthens outcomes for all learners.”

During the training, teacher grade-level and department teams from across the district collaborated to develop and refine plans within the MTSS framework. This collaborative approach allowed educators to work together as one unified district, sharing strategies and aligning practices to better support all students’ academic and social-emotional needs.

The Valley Stream 24 School District remains committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment, and initiatives like MTSS training play a vital role in advancing that mission.

Valley Stream 24 Community Leaders Are Named Women of Distinction by Legislator Cynthia Nuñez

Valley Stream 24 School District Library Media Specialist Cheryl Calamiong and Valley Stream 24 Community Member Aisha Black Darby were named Women of Distinction by Nassau County Legislator Cynthia Nuñez at a celebration held at the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building in honor of Women’s History Month. Ms. Calamiong and Mrs. Darby were recognized among a group of eight exemplary women throughout the 14th Legislative District for her dedication and contributions to the community.

Valley Stream 24 Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas, Brooklyn Avenue School Principal Dr. Scott Comis and Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Christopher Keogh attended to celebrate the honor and show their support. Ms. Calamiong and Mrs. Darby were also joined by their families as they were honored for their exceptional commitment and hard work.

“I was honored to celebrate Women’s History Month by recognizing an extraordinary group of Women from our community,” Ms. Nuñez said. “Each of these women has made a lasting impact through their leadership, service, and dedication to others.”

“It was a privilege to uplift their stories and thank them for the countless ways they strengthen Valley Stream, Lynbrook, and Elmont,” she continued. “Their work reminds us that progress is built through courage, compassion, and commitment. To all the honorees—thank you for inspiring the next generation and for all that you do every day. My team and I are proud to stand with you and celebrate your achievements.”

Other honorees included Michela Argento-Serra, Jill Bromberg, Luanne Lynch Dresher, Erica Eyssalenne, Stephanie Shapiro and Polly Talbot.

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Robert W. Carbonaro School Takes the Kids Heart Challenge

Robert W. Carbonaro School in the Valley Stream 24 School District proudly participated in the Kids Heart Challenge in honor of Healthy Heart Month. Through the successful fundraiser, the school community donated more than $1,000 to support children living with heart defects and illnesses.

Robert W. Carbonaro students came together in an inspiring display of energy and compassion as they took part in heart-healthy activities including jogging, jumping rope and playing basketball. The activities not only promoted physical fitness but also reinforced the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle from a young age.

The Kids Heart Challenge is a national initiative run through a partnership between the American Heart Association and the National Football League. The program educates students about keeping their heart, body, and brain healthy and concurrently empowers them to make a difference by helping children with special hearts live long, healthy lives.

Through participation in the Kids Heart Challenge, Robert W. Carbonaro School continues to foster lifelong habits of health, kindness, and community involvement.