Sayville Students Honored With Community Leadership Awards

At a special ceremony, the Sayville School District recognized 10 students as recipients of the Long Island Coalition Against Bullying (LICAB) Community Leadership Awards. Representing each of the district’s five schools, the honorees were celebrated for their positive influence, leadership, and commitment to fostering inclusive school communities.

Each student was introduced by the teacher who nominated them, who shared heartfelt remarks highlighting the qualities that made them deserving of the recognition, before they were presented with a certificate commemorating their achievement.

“These students exemplify the qualities of compassion, leadership, and respect that help create positive school environments for everyone,” Jillian Makris, Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services, said. “Through their actions, they demonstrate the importance of standing up for others, fostering inclusion, and making their schools welcoming places where all students can feel valued and supported. We are proud to recognize their contributions and the example they set for their peers.”

The following students were awarded:

Cherry Avenue Elementary School:

Carli Miller and Paul Santarsiero

Lincoln Avenue Elementary School:

Andrew Fasano and Avery Morritt

Sunrise Drive Elementary School:

Bailey Aliperti and Vivienne Tomasetti

Sayville Middle School:

Robyn Julias and Theo Morris

Sayville High School:

Richard Fontanetta and Alexis Lopresti

“Creating a school community where every student feels respected, valued, and included requires the efforts of dedicated student leaders,” Dr. Marc Ferris, Superintendent of Schools, said. “These award recipients have helped foster that culture through their kindness, empathy, and willingness to support others. Their contributions make our schools stronger, and we are honored to recognize them for their leadership.”

The ceremony concluded with a special surprise for the honorees, who learned that their award certificates also included a monetary gift in recognition of their outstanding leadership and positive contributions. Elementary school recipients received $100, middle school recipients received $500, and high school recipients received $1,000.

The Long Island Coalition Against Bullying (LICAB) works to create bully-free communities through education, advocacy, and support. Partnering with schools and families, LICAB promotes inclusive learning environments, raises awareness about the impact of bullying, and provides resources to help students feel safe and empowered.

For more information about the Sayville Union Free School District, visit the district’s website at sayvilleschools.org. Happenings in the district can also be found on the district’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/saydistrictpr. #CaringAndLearning