Sayville Union Free School District honors long-serving staff at recognition ceremony

At a district recognition event, Sayville Union Free School District presenters honored multiple retiring and long-serving employees, celebrating years of service and contributions to students and school programs.

Presenters highlighted Deborah DeThomas for 10 years of service as a senior office assistant at Cherry Avenue, noting she handled summer work solo and became a key support to the building. They also recognized Andrea Adams, who began work in September 1996 and was praised for literacy instruction, curriculum committee work and advocacy for students. Other honorees mentioned by presenters included Patrice (more than 25 years in the athletics office), Maria Manzino (27 years), Jenna Ramirez (recognized for long service), Jennifer Burns (science department chair who led work implementing New York State science learning standards), Jody Maurizi (31 years), Gabby Lambiase (about 30 years), and Mary Jane Stevens (25 years as a counselor).

Speakers described several honorees' contributions beyond classroom instruction: a family-created memorial scholarship that has provided thousands of dollars to graduating seniors; staff members who supported athletics, food pantry efforts and school-wide initiatives; and counselors and office staff who provided steady guidance in difficult moments. One presenter said, “We wish you a lifetime of luck and good fortune,” during the remarks honoring retirees.

The event combined short tributes and personal anecdotes with formal acknowledgment of service milestones. Several presenters closed the recognition portion by thanking staff for their passion and long-term commitment to students and the community.

Next steps: the district did not announce formal follow-up actions tied to these recognitions; the remarks served as part of a ceremonial acknowledgment of retiring and departing employees.