Roosevelt Shows Solidarity with the Farmingdale Community

Staff and students throughout the Roosevelt School District wore green and sported green ribbons to show support and solidarity with the Farmingdale School District community following the devastating tragedy that took the lives of beloved teachers Beatrice Ferrari and Gina Pellettiere and injured so many students.

“My words are heavy with grief as we come to terms with the recent tragedy that has unfolded in our neighboring Farmingdale School District. In these moments of profound sadness, it is imperative that we unite as a community, offering unwavering support to those who are in need,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Deborah Wortham.

The District shared with students the impact Beatrice Ferrari and Gina Pellettiere had on their Farmingdale students, the marching band program and the Farmingdale community as a whole. The hallways of all Roosevelt schools became a sea of green on Tuesday, September 26th, as the Rough Riders extended unwavering support to the Dalers.

“This seemingly simple yet profoundly meaningful gesture stands as a testament to the depth of our empathy, the strength of our unity, and the indomitable bond that defines our community. Through it, our staff, and students express their heartfelt support to our friends in Farmingdale, affirming that we are here for them and profoundly concerned about their well-being,” Dr. Wortham said.

Roosevelt High School students also created a video to extend their condolences to Farmingdale students impacted by the tragedy. “It’s a kind way and small and simple way of showing togetherness and, as students, it’s important for us to show that we all care for each other and not only show support to the family members of those who were lost, but also the students who now have to live with that trauma. It’s very important that they know that they’re not alone,” Roosevelt High School student Amanda Alexander says in the video. The Board of Education will be setting aside a moment of silence during its next public meeting to express Roosevelt’s grief and preserve the memories of Beatrice Ferrari and Gina Pellettiere.

To learn more about the Roosevelt Union Free School District, please visit the District's website at https://www.rooseveltufsd.org. Happenings in the District can also be followed on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RooseveltUFSD.