Connolly Elementary School Recognizes its Student Council

GLEN COVE, NEW YORK (APRIL 2022) — Connolly Elementary School recently recognized the achievements of its Student Council at a pinning ceremony attended by Glen Cove Mayor Pam Panzenbeck, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Maria Rianna and Dr. Michael Israel, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction and Technology.

Kicking off the ceremony with the Pledge of Allegiance were Student Council members Daniela Perez, Alyson Rivera and Donovan Gonzalez. Next, students took turns recapping the accomplishments of the Student Council from the past year. Lilliana O’Connor began this portion of the ceremony, followed by siblings Guliana and Joseph Portaro, Ryan Huggins, Ryder Zurita and Donato Grella.

“I’m so proud of our Student Council members for having such a positive impact not only in their school and community, but in the world. Whether it’s supporting our local food pantry or collecting supplies for refugees abroad, these students put their passion and care into everything they do,” said Principal Bryce Klatsky.

In October, the Student Council organized the Connolly Cares Breast Cancer Walk-a-thon, raising over $900 that was split between Glen Cove Cares and the American Breast Cancer Society.

In February, the Student Council hosted its first “Souper Bowl,” collecting food items for the Glen Cove Porch Pantry. The items collected were separated into boxes according to students’ favorite team competing in the Super Bowl. As it turned out, the most students voted for the actual Super Bowl winner, the Los Angeles Rams.

Also in February, the Student Council decorated cards and wrote inspirational messages that they delivered to veterans across Nassau County. For their efforts, the students were recognized by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman.

Amanda Commitino spoke about the Student Council’s ongoing efforts with Assemblyman Chuck Lavine to collect supplies for Ukrainian refugees. To date, the Student Council has collected 12 boxes of goods for shipment overseas.

Finally, Michael Haluch delivered closing remarks and thanked Mr. Klatsky, Mayor Panzenbeck, Dr. Rianna and Dr. Israel for their support.

“I want to congratulate Connolly’s Student Council for setting goals to help others and meeting them all year long. This group has made me and Glen Cove very proud,” said Dr. Maria Rianna.

“You have done so many great things and the more wonderful things you do for others, the better it makes you feel,” Mayor Panzenbeck told the Student Council members at the ceremony.

For more information about the Glen Cove City School District, please visit the District’s website at www.glencoveschools.org. Happenings in the District can also be followed on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/glencovecityschooldistrict.