Students Shower School Boards With Their Gifts

Using their talents, students of the Malverne and West Hempstead public schools paid tribute to members of their Boards of Education through artwork and music.

As part of Board Recognition Week in the Malverne Union Free School District, the Oct. 12 Board of Education meeting, held at the library of Malverne High School, kicked off with a celebration of its members.

"I'm very proud to work with this Board and to be a member of this management team," said Superintendent Dr. James Hunderfund.

Principal Margaret McDaid, of Maurice W. Downing School, addressed the board first. She was escorted by one of her adorable first graders, who distributed books that the students had crafted to show their gratitute to the Board of Education. The principal of Davison Avenue School, Edward Tallon, presented an elaborate poster that his students had created, which read: "MALVERNE BOE: THANK YOU FOR BUILDING US A BRIGHTER FUTURE."

A procession of black-and-white clad students assembled into the meeting as Principal Steven Gilhuley introduced Howard T. Herber Middle School's Select Choir, who showed their appreciation by performing a song for the board.

"I don't know how you top that," said Principal James Brown, of Malverne Senior High School, as the choir wrapped their performance. In what appeared to be a friendly competition among colleagues to showcase the talents of their students, Mr. Brown signaled for the Pride of Malverne Marching Band to enter the library. Soon, the already packed room was filled with students sporting tubas, drums, trumpets and other instruments.

The marching band, which at the time was undefeated in its division, performed one of the selections from its competition set list. (Watch the video to see the performance.)

"I'm feeling it," said Dr. Patrick Coonan, president of the Board of Education. "This will be the year," regarding the band's chance of clinching a New York State championship. Last year, they lost by only a few points to Johnson City.

The evening was even more special for Board Trustee, Karen Aker, who was celebrating her birthday.

The West Hempstead Union Free School District honored their board of education members at a meeting on Oct. 19 at the high school. Students made hand-crafted notecards for the board members. Each one featured a piece of original artwork by one of the students. The West Hempstead Chamber Orchestra and Chamber Choir also used their talents to pay a musical tribute to their Board of Education. (Check out the video to hear the choir's finale.)