VIDEO: Smithtown Firefighters Give Student Unforgettable Ride To School

A Mt. Pleasant Elementary School student arrived at Field Day aboard a Smithtown fire engine after winning a special PTA fundraiser.

By Kepherd Daniel, Patch Staff

May 21, 2026 4:08 pm EDT | Updated May 21, 2026 4:19 pm EDT

Students smile inside Engine 4-2-4 during a special ride to Mt. Pleasant Elementary School after Nora Tarello won the “Fire Truck Ride to School” PTA fundraiser experience. Photo credit: Smithtown Fire Department (Courtesy Smithtown Fire Department)

SMITHTOWN, NY — Smithtown Fire Department firefighters helped create a memorable start to Field Day for one local student last week, giving her and her family a special ride to school aboard a fire truck.

Nora Tarello arrived at Mt. Pleasant Elementary School in a fiery way after winning the “Fire Truck Ride to School” experience through a school fundraiser partnership between the Smithtown Fire Department and the school’s PTA.

Nora was joined aboard Engine 4-2-4 by her sister, two friends and her mother as firefighters transported the group directly to the school’s bus loop before the start of the day.

Students gathered outside the school greeted the fire engine with cheers and excitement as it pulled in for the surprise arrival.

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School officials also joined in the celebration, including Principal Joe Ierano, who welcomed the group while wearing a Smithtown Fire Department helmet.

The Smithtown Fire Department thanked the Hauppauge Fire Department for inspiring the idea behind the initiative.

The experience was raffled off during a recent PTA event alongside contributions from several local businesses. Funds raised through the initiative help support student activities, educational programs, special events and additional opportunities throughout the school year.

Fire department officials said the collaboration highlighted the strong relationship between local schools, first responders and the community.

Students pose inside a Smithtown fire truck before arriving at Mt. Pleasant Elementary School for Field Day festivities. (Courtesy Smithtown Fire Department)

Nora Tarello, joined by friends, stands beside a Smithtown Fire Department engine after arriving at Mt. Pleasant Elementary School through a special fundraiser experience. (Courtesy Smithtown Fire Department)

Students gather around a Smithtown fire truck outside Mt. Pleasant Elementary School as Field Day begins following Nora Tarello’s winning “Ride to School” experience. (Courtesy Smithtown Fire Department)