Lynbrook's Strategic Planning Committee Addresses Substance Abuse, Communication

Through a process that began in the summer of 2010, the Lynbrook School District’s Strategic Planning Committee has been working to enact a five-year plan that has established goals for academic achievement, facilities, communication, guidance programs, social work, staff development and combating substance abuse by students.

At the Dec. 12 Board of Education business meeting, the communications and substance abuse committees delivered reports to the board.  Dr. Paul Lynch, director of communications and computers, presented an outline of a plan to enhance communication with internal stakeholders, such as parents, students, staff, administrators and the board of education. Equally important will be the mission of expanding communications with external stakeholders, such as residents, businesses, civic and religious groups and alumni. The district is also exploring new ways to integrate other means of communication – such as face-to-face meetings, Facebook and Twitter – into the existing communications network.

Thomas Graham, director of athletics, physical education and health, presented a report from the committee charged with examining ways to combat substance abuse by students. Building on the effectiveness of the Athletes Creating Excellence leadership program, Graham outlined a plan for Lynbrook High School students in the SADD Club to visit all seventh- and eighth-grade classes to act as role models and mentors.

“Since club adviser Karen Aquino is also the high school social worker, this will give her an additional opportunity to offer the middle school students support during this important time in their social and emotional development,” said Graham.

There were also three presentations acknowledging the achievements of the seven All-State musicians, two All-Eastern musicians and 12 seniors who submitted Intel research papers. Following those presentations, the Art Honor Society awarded a check for more than $3,700 to the Lynbrook Classroom Teachers Association’s Dr. Barbarino Scholarship Fund. The money was raised from proceeds from the Art Honor Society’s annual Night of the Pumpkins.