Connolly and Landing Kids Move Up and On 

Fifth graders at Connolly and Landing elementary schools in Glen Cove recently celebrated the completion of their elementary educational careers and embraced the challenges of their next chapter in life: Robert M. Finley Middle School.

Before embarking on their summer vacations, each of these students received a diploma to signify the accomplishments of the first six years of their academic life, three of which, were spent at these schools.

At Landing, Principal Dr. Michael Israel reminisced with the fifth graders about Thanksgiving feasts, the science fairs, the fourth-grade field and other fond memories of their three years at the school. 

"May all of your hopes and dreams come true," Israel told his students. "Congratulations on your moving up."

Both Israel and Connolly Principal Rosemarie Sekelsky unveiled a published book, authored by the Landing and Connolly fifth graders, entitled "Yesterday's Journeys and Tomorrow's Dreams," which documents the students' experience of studying the history and status of immigration to the United States.

Every fifth grader at each school received a copy of the book, which Sekelsky called a testimony to the diversity of students in the district.

"These years go by so quickly," Sekelsky told her graduates. "But you are all so ready and thanks to the past meet-and-greets with Landing School, you already have a special bond with the students who will be sitting alongside you in class."

Landing's keynote speaker, Glen Cove Police Department's Sgt. Jack McDougal reminded the fifth graders to continue to demonstrate good character as they advance in their life. McDougal has been visiting the school year-round as a representative for the department's PRIDE program. 

"Character is doing the right thing when no one is looking," said McDougal, who along with Israel, was presented with a gift from the graduates.

Talent certificates recognizing key collaborators, communicators, motivators, problem solvers, creative thinkers, and spatial — artistic — designers were awarded to class members at Landing. Citizenship and academic awards in the different subject areas were presented to fifth graders at Connolly.

Additionally, Presidential Awards for Excellence and the Triple C Award, which represents character, courage and commitment, were presented to students at both schools.

At Landing, the Comptroller's Award for leadership was presented to Student Council President Lindsey Payton. At Connolly, a special award in honor of former Gribbin School Principal Dr. Mary Bear was awarded to Roxanna Mejia Alvarado for making great strides in her studies.

Despite migrating from El Salvador and learning a new language, school officials said, Alvarado has adapted to her new culture beautifully and has performed well academically. A special presentation was also made at Connolly for retiring teacher Lee DelValle.

"All of my teachers have been wonderful," said Robert Rizzo, co-president of the Connolly Student Council, who advised his younger brother Joey to always complete his homework and treat all of his classmates with respect.