Suffolk County Water Authority Stops By Gatelot Elementary for Learning Tutorial

Gatelot Elementary School welcomed Suffolk County Water Authority (SCWA) representative Kathryn Fedun to speak with fifth graders about the water cycle last week.

The curriculum used in the presentation was based on New York State testing standards. With a focus on the source and protection of Long Island's drinking water, Ms. Fedun used visual aids to explain the water cycle. Using a model with aquifers, the presenter demonstrated the effects of a gas station leak or the damage everyday pesticides can cause to wells.

"Diagrams, handouts, a quiz and certificates are all used to ensure we have fun while learning about water," explained Donna Mancuso, Administrative Coordinator and presenter with the SCWA, according to a statement.  

For the past five years, the Authority has been educating elementary and high school students across Suffolk County. Their elementary educational outreach program targets students in grades four through eight and has been incredibly successful with continual growth. Last year, the SCWA traveled to 77 schools, and they plan to speak to even more students this year.

"Public education is an essential ingredient in maintaining the quality of our water resources.  It is critical for all Long Islanders to understand that our water comes from the ground beneath us and the earlier children understand that the better," stated Michael LoGrande, Suffolk County Water Authority Chairman.

"We are proud to offer this presentation at no cost to all schools in Suffolk County," added Patrick Halpin, SCWA Board Secretary.