Island Trees Notebook: Creative Writing, Field Day and Robert Condela

The following is a compilation of recent accomplishments and happenings in Island Trees Schools, courtesy of the district:

High School Students Honored for Creativity

Several Island Trees High school students were recognized for their creative efforts in two separate writing contests. 

Arielle Herguth captured first place in the arts category for the Nassau County Librarians Association Intellectual Freedom Contact, according to a release from the school district. Kaitlyn Fischer, Rachel Gerard and Kelly Schulz were recognized in the Nassau Reading Council’s Personal Narrative Contest for their memoirs.

Sparke Hosts Annual Field Day

J. Fred Sparke Elementary School recently held its annual Field Day event under a beautiful sunny blue sky. Students had the chance to visit different game stations, which were all inspired by Dr. Suess stories in honor of the PARP theme, “Having Fun Reading with Dr. Seuss.”

Vicki Firmbach, a physical education teacher at the school, picked out games the children enjoyed, including basketball, soccer and yoga, and tailored them to fit the theme. Other volunteers from Sparke’s PTA ran the water station to keep the children hydrated throughout the event. Additionally, they also treated the children to Italian ices.

Students from Island Trees High School’s Athletes Helping Athletes program assisted in running each of the games. 

Robert Condela Ends His Run as Board Trustee

The Island Trees Board of Education recognized Robert Condela at the June 22 meeting for his 24 years of service to the local community as a Board Trustee.

Condela was elected to the Board of Education in 1987, eventually serving eighth terms as s trustee. During his time, he attended about 600 meetings as well as numerous events and ceremonies, according to a release from the school.