Massapequa Teacher Honored For SADD Leadership

Angela Gallucci, a teacher at Massapequa High School, was recently recognized by the Massapequa Takes Action Coalition for her work as adviser of Students Against Destructive Decisions. Gallucci, a special education English teacher, has supervised the SADD club for the past seven years.

MTAC’s mission is to prevent substance misuse and to promote a healthy Massapequa. The organization has a strong partnership with the Massapequa School District to enhance its efforts. MTAC and SADD have teamed up for several initiatives.

Last summer, members of the MTAC Steering Committee, including Gallucci and two SADD student representatives, were among more than 2,500 students and adults from across the country to attend the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America Mid-Year Training Institute in Dallas, Texas. It offered in-depth, interactive training sessions about substance abuse prevention, public policy advocacy, media strategies and marketing programs to reduce substance misuse.

Presenting Gallucci with her award were MTAC’s Project Director Cathy Samuels, MTAC Co-Chairs Mark Wenzel (assistant director of YES) and Diane Marascia (Massapequa High School social worker) and Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Thomas Fasano.

MTAC leaders noted that the best way to prevent drug experimentation and addiction is to educate children at a young age and to provide parents with necessary resources for effective communication. They said that Gallucci’s commitment to these efforts, as well as her strong leadership of the SADD club and work with students, is why they chose to recognize her.

Gallucci said one of the biggest concerns SADD is presently addressing is the increase in vaping. This is in addition to its long-standing awareness campaigns on issues such as underage drinking, opioid use and marijuana.

“My children are growing up here and will be directly impacted by what goes on in the community,” Gallucci said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with a great organization like MTAC to help make Massapequa better, safer and healthier.”