Baldwin board honors PTA Reflections winners and spotlights student programs

The Baldwin Union Free School District board opened its public meeting by recognizing students and volunteers involved in this year’s PTA Reflections arts program, calling attention to multiple district finalists and community fundraising achievements.

Superintendent Mr. McNel introduced New York State School Boards Association Area 11 Director Mr. Charice Desire, who presented a 'Champions of Change' recognition to Baldwin Middle School’s Future Teachers pre‑academy program. "It is my honor to come back to Brooklyn yet again with a Champions of Change recognition award for your future teachers pre‑academy program," Mr. Desire said, praising the district’s efforts to build a local pipeline to the teaching profession.

Mr. McNel highlighted that the middle school raised over $14,000 for the Make‑A‑Wish Foundation and noted local media recognition for the district’s mentoring programs. "We are very proud about middle school and their accomplishments," he said, adding that music and band programs are growing across the district.

The board heard presentations from PTA Reflections chairs representing Brookside, Plaza, Lenox and Meadow schools. Brookside reported 12 participants, with three advancing to the Nassau regional finals; Plaza reported 12 entries and two regional finalists; Lenox and Meadow likewise named participants and finalists. Pamela Pratt, former reflections chair, described the program’s timeline and noted student work advanced to county, state and national levels.

Board members and district staff encouraged families to view the students’ artwork on display in the cafeteria and thanked PTA volunteers. The board then recessed for a brief period to allow attendees to review submissions.

What’s next: The board scheduled refreshments and an opportunity to view the artwork immediately after the public portion of the meeting.