The Grass is Actually Greener in BUFSD

Brentwood, N.Y. (June 2019)—Brentwood Union Free School District (BUFSD) is pleased to announce its Buildings and Grounds Department was recently presented with the Fields of Excellence award by Pioneer Athletics, a nationwide program that recognizes hardworking individuals, schools, and communities for their commitment and exceptional upkeep of fields and sports facilities.

“While many districts have been fortunate enough to install artificial turf in areas to limit field maintenance challenges, our team is still cutting, maintaining and preparing our fields for all of our sporting and outdoor events,” said Robert Lorefice, School Maintenance Crew Leader of the Brentwood Union Free School District. “Our amazing grounds crew does an outstanding job keeping up with all of these tasks throughout the entire year. They take great pride in preparing these fields while providing safe playing grounds for the kids. This award is an honor for not only our grounds crew, but for our entire district staff and all of our great students!”

Recognized as the largest suburban school district in New York, BUFSD is home to 11 elementary schools, four middle schools, a freshman center, two high school buildings, an administration building and several warehouses. This expansive real estate includes football, soccer (boys and girls), lacrosse (boys and girls), baseball and softball fields for each instructional building, respectively.

Throughout the year, upkeep of Brentwood’s fields includes, but is not limited to, grass cutting; weed trimming; fence line trimming; fall pick up; tree trimming; daily moves; and field preparation for sporting events, field days, music events and graduations. Under challenging weather conditions, the crew works diligently to make each field available for use. Teamwork has been instrumental for Brentwood’s greener fields through a close partnership between the maintenance crew and the athletic and music departments, who collaborate to accommodate all games and field usage.

“Our buildings and grounds department has been instrumental in the upkeep of the district’s outstanding landscape,” said Mr. Richard Loeschner, Superintendent of Brentwood Union Free School District. “The Field of Excellence award is indicative of the tireless work our crew puts in on a day-to-day basis to keep our students safe and the fields looking their best.”

For consideration of the award, Robert Lorefice submitted an essay on behalf of the district that broke down the intricate work necessary to maintain Brentwood’s proper field conditions. Pioneer Athletics presents the Fields of Excellence award in recognition of the efforts of maintenance crews, exceptionally well-maintained surface, best in paint, equipment, and accessories all coming together. The award fosters school pride and community spirit.

For more information about the Brentwood Union Free School District, please visit the district’s website at www.brentwood.k12.ny.us. Happenings in the district can also be followed on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BrentwoodUnionFreeSchoolDistrict.