Student representative reports on playground ribbon-cutting, anti-bullying plans and homecoming events

Valentina, the student board member, presented updates from across the Kings Park Central School District on Oct. 7, including a ribbon-cutting at Fort Salonga, plans for a small school museum, bullying-prevention activities, spirit weeks and homecoming events.

At Fort Salonga, Valentina reported, "the Charles and Helen Reichert Family Foundation donated a significant amount of money to build an all-abilities [playground]." She said the school is selling personalized bricks that will be assembled into an accessible path for mobility devices and that order forms are available in the main lobby and on the school's website. Valentina also said the school is planning a small museum in a former telephone booth off the main lobby that will display rotating artifacts and trophies.

Valentina said staff at Fort Salonga are focusing on National Bullying Prevention Month with the support of the school's mental-health team, including the school social worker, Ms. Foster, and school psychologist, Dr. DeFalco. She said those teams are working with students and teachers on prevention, particularly during unstructured times such as bus lines and recess.

Reports from other schools included a Parkview pumpkin patch on Oct. 17 and a Parkview trunk-or-treat event on Oct. 27; RJL held a back-to-school night and fourth graders completed the OSAT test; William T. Rogers planned "spirit week" events Oct. 9'17 and a middle-school rally. At Kings Park High School, Valentina said next week is spirit week and homecoming events are Oct. 17 (bonfire) and Oct. 18 (homecoming); student councils are building floats and clubs are fundraising for senior activities and community service. She also noted unified soccer on Oct. 21 designed to support every athlete.

The student report closed with a reminder of several club and service activities and encouragement to attend community homecoming events.