Valley Stream 24 Awarded $500K Grant for Playground, Water Filtration

The Valley Stream 24 School District has secured a $500,000 grant from Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages. The funding will be used to create a new sensory playground at Robert W. Carbonaro Elementary School and support the installation of two new water bottle filtration systems in all three district schools.

“Our Board of Education and entire district community are incredibly grateful to Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages for this generous and impactful grant,” said Superintendent Dr. Unal Karakas. “With the addition of our new 8:1:3 inclusive special education program at Robert W. Carbonaro School, we are excited to provide a playground that meets every child's individualized needs.

Additionally, we have already begun installing and utilizing water bottle filtration systems in each of our schools, ensuring our students have access to clean and healthy drinking water. Offering inclusive play spaces and access to healthy hydration aligns with our Board of Education's commitment to working with community legislators to create equitable and supportive learning environments for all students.”

Water bottle filtration systems are already being installed in all three district schools, providing students and staff with access to fresh, filtered drinking water. Meanwhile, construction on Robert W. Carbonaro’s new sensory playground is set to begin later this spring, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony planned upon completion. The playground will include an expansive jungle gym, a new inclusive swing set, and an interactive musical area featuring a xylophone, bells, and drums. These are all designed to foster an engaging and inclusive play experience for all students.

For more information about Valley Stream 24, please visit the District’s website at https://valleystreamschooldist... and ‘like’ our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/VS24S... #MakeTheConnection #VS24