Sixth-grade students at James H. Vernon School in Oyster Bay were treated to a special presentation on Thursday, April 25 by Holocaust survivor Gilda Zirinsky.

Organized by Director of Humanities Tami McElwee, in collaboration with the Holocaust Tolerance and Memorial Center (HMTC), arrangements were made for the former educator to share her story with the next generation.

Interim Principal, Mr. Martin Nelson introduced Ms. Zirinsky and explained to the students how a lot of the problems today are because we don’t know our history. He expressed that the staff and students are blessed to have a Holocaust survivor share her story so that we can learn from her experience, and the students being part of the new generation can be the leaders in a more hopeful future by taking in the contents of this presentation.

Zachary Graulich, Director of Programs at the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center also expressed what a privilege and opportunity it is to hear from a first-hand survivor.

Born in 1935 in Belgium, Zirinsky still remembers the sounds of the enemy planes flying overhead that prompted her mother to initiate the family fleeing Europe before the Nazis caught up to them. She vividly and emotionally shared her testimony with the students who intently listened. A main message of Zirinsky’s story for the students though came from the kindness that was shown by the French ship captain as they escaped first to Casablanca on an 8-day-voyage with a scarcity of food and necessities. Zirinsky recalls the captain not wanting to leave the refugees with the Nazis and doing everything that he could to help them obtain food on this long, harrowing journey. She reminded the students of the importance in always be kind, loving one another and being tolerant. She expressed that we currently live in similar times with the spread of antisemitism and racism, and encouraged the students that they are the next generation that can truly make a difference through their everyday actions. She concluded by emphasizing that what she experienced with the Holocaust is something that can happen anytime, anywhere, and that is why we must all never forget what happened and that displaying kindness at all times is paramount.

After the presentation, students were encouraged to ask questions. Over a dozen hands were raised as Ms. Zirinksy marveled afterward at the students’ thoughtful questions.

“I felt strongly in the importance in arranging this presentation and I think the kids were amazing in the level of thoughtful questions they posed,” said McElwee. “I think it’s important to connect the next generation with history. It was a beautiful experience for our kids.”

Date Added: 4/26/2024

Oyster Bay High School bands in grades 9 through 12 recently took the stage at Carnegie Hall. Joined by their families, teachers, and administrators, the students’ beautiful musical tones rang throughout this world-famous concert venue. The district said that they know this is an event the students will never forget.

“Last night was a truly unforgettable moment for our bands as they graced the historic stage at Carnegie Hall,” said Director of Fine, Performing and Media Arts Erica Giglio Pac. “Their performance was not just a display of musical skill, but a testament to the hard work, passion and dedication that our students and their band director, Mr. Sisia, put into our music program every day.” GiglioPac added that it is moments like these that remind them of the transformative power of music education and the extraordinary talent within their school community. “I am grateful on a daily basis for the support and dedication of our board of education, school and central administration, and superintendent, Dr. Ianni,” said Giglio Pac. “I am incredibly proud of our students, teachers, and everyone involved in making this incredible achievement possible.

Date Added: 4/23/2024

Teddy Roosevelt Elementary School held an enchanting showcase of creativity at the district’s Pre-K-2 art show held on April 15th! Every wall of the school was adorned with vibrant masterpieces crafted by our youngest artists, showcasing their boundless imagination and artistic flair.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated parents who generously volunteered their time and effort to hang the artwork, transforming our halls into a gallery of inspiration. Special thanks are owed to our exceptional art teacher, Ms. Brustman, whose passion and guidance have nurtured the budding talents of our students.

To all the family members who joined us, your presence added an extra layer of joy and pride to this celebration of young talent. Together, let us continue to revel in the beauty of creativity and the power of imagination as we support and applaud the artistic journey of our students.

Click here to view the photo slideshow.

Date Added: 4/16/2024