50th Jubilee Planned For School Celebrating Polish Traditions

RIVERHEAD, NY — For years, Riverhead has been home for generations of Polish residents who celebrate deeply-rooted traditions and customs, instilling those customs in their children with a sense of pride and great joy.

Now, a school dedicated to teaching those young children, the Saint Maksymilian Kolbe Polish School in Riveerhead, is set to celebrate 50 years — and fundraising efforts are underway for a 50th Jubilee.

Agnieszka Ogonowska kicked off a GoFundMe page, "Funding 50th Jubilee at Polish School," in advance of the school's 50th anniversary in October.

"For the last five decades, we have seen hundreds of students at our school. They improve their skills in the Polish language, their country's history, geography, and Polish customs and traditions," she said.

The students, she added, participate in the Polish Festival in Riverhead, visit nursing homes, participate in Culture Day at their American Schools and more. They also participate in Christmas, Easter and other holiday celebrations at the St. Isidore Catholic Church in Riverhead and are largely involved in that community, Ogonowska said.

"With your help, we hope to continue doing so for many years to come, keeping our Polish roots alive and thriving in our community," she said. "We are very proud of our achievements."

The 50th anniversary will be celebrated with a banquet event on Nov. 19 at the Atlantis ballroom and a commemorative yearbook, she said.

Those who want to help can donate to the GoFundMe or purchase an ad in the Jubilee yearbook. To purchase and ad or tickets to the Jubilee, contact paniagnieszka03@gmail.com for prices and additional information.

"We look forward to making this a wonderful celebration of our school and look forward to the next 50 years and beyond," Ogonowska said.

To donate to the GoFundMe, click here.

GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner.