East Meadow Schools Raise Thousands For Sick Student

EAST MEADOW, NY - From East Meadow School District: The East Meadow School District’s Bowling Green Elementary School honored third grader Mahdi Islam on April 17 with a Super Hero Day. Mahdi is currently in the hospital awaiting surgery for a heart transplant.

The day began with a mini pep rally in the hallway by Mahdi’s classroom. Students and staff members showed their support of Mahdi by donating a $1 to wear a “Super Hero” shirt, and some even wore full costumes to honor their courageous peer.

As a special surprise, teacher Christine Reiman used FaceTime to call Mahdi and his father, Saidul Islam, at the hospital. Mahdi was nearly speechless as Mrs. Reiman walked through the hallway to show him all the forms of support, which included student-created signs of well wishes.

With the video projected onto the classroom smartboard, Mahdi said hello to his classmates and thanked them for their thoughtful efforts. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth A. Card Jr., Director of Special Education and Pupil Personnel Services Patrice Dobies, Principal Maria Ciarametaro and many others also participated in the FaceTime conference, and Madhi was thrilled to see that even theBowling Green bulldog mascot was in attendance.

Meadowbrook Elementary School also held a Super Hero Day, as Mahdi is a former student in the building. A total of $4,000 was raised at the end of the day between two schools, and donations are still being accepted.

“We are here to support Mahdi and wish him and his family the best of luck,” said Principal Maria Ciarametaro. “Everyone in the district and at Bowling Green look forward to Mahdi’s return to school."