
Students at Brooklyn Avenue School in the Valley Stream 24 School District recently enjoyed the third annual Family Fun Day at Citi Field, hosted by the Brooklyn Avenue School Parent Teacher Association (PTA). The event brought together about 150 students and their families for an afternoon of baseball, community, and family fun as the New York Mets took on the Philadelphia Phillies.
The Valley Stream 24 School District extends its sincere appreciation to the New York Mets for their generous donation, which made the event possible for the third consecutive year. The district is grateful for the organization's continued support in providing meaningful experiences for students and their families.
Although the Mets came up short on the scoreboard, the day was a winning experience for Brooklyn Avenue School families who had the opportunity to create lasting memories together while cheering on their hometown team.
"We are incredibly thankful to the Brooklyn Avenue School PTA for organizing this wonderful tradition and to the New York Mets for their generosity and continued partnership,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. "Opportunities like Family Fun Day help strengthen the connections between our schools, our families, and our community.”
The annual Family Fun Day has become a beloved tradition at Brooklyn Avenue School, bringing families together outside the classroom and celebrating the strong sense of community that defines the Valley Stream 24 School District.
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

Valley Stream Union Free School District 24 proudly celebrated the achievements of its 2026 graduating classes during commencement ceremonies for students from William L. Buck School, Brooklyn Avenue School and Robert W. Carbonaro School.
Hosted in the William L. Buck School auditorium, each ceremony marked an important milestone as students concluded their elementary school experience and prepared to begin the next chapter of their educational journey. Graduates were recognized for their hard work, perseverance and personal growth throughout their years in the district as they proudly crossed the stage to receive their diplomas.
Surrounded by proud families, friends and educators, students were celebrated for their academic accomplishments, character and the many contributions they made to their school communities. The ceremonies were filled with smiles, applause and memorable moments as loved ones gathered to commemorate this special occasion.
"Our graduates have grown into confident, compassionate and capable leaders who are ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead," said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. "We are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished during their time in Valley Stream 24, and we thank our dedicated teachers, staff and families for the unwavering support that helped make this milestone possible. We wish our students continued success as they begin this exciting new chapter."
Members of the Board of Education, the Superintendent of Schools, building principals, district administrators, teachers, staff and families joined together to celebrate the graduates' accomplishments and offer their encouragement as the Class of 2026 looks ahead to middle school and beyond.
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