Leaders and Friends at Smithtown West

Through the Smithtown Sports, Friends, and Fun for All Club, the Smithtown High School West Leadership class recently added another event to their long-lasting relationship with students in the Positive Behavior Support program (students with disabilities).

The two groups met to coordinate a winter dance party, going over the menu, décor and entertainment before enjoying an evening of dancing, socializing and fun on Jan. 18.

According to HSW Leadership teacher Paul DeMatteo, the party, which was held in the school’s e-café, was a huge success.

“Our kids had the opportunity to meet students with disabilities who may seem different, but actually have a lot to offer and teach them,” said DeMatteo. “Students from the PBS program were delighted to have a night of dancing and fun with the Leadership students. Many of the Leadership students have been so moved by their experience in the class that they have made the decision to enter careers in special education.”

The SSFA Club is a grassroots program created in response to parent and teacher concerns that many children and adults with disabilities had a void in their lives that could only be filled by having friendships. The club is supported by fundraising activities coordinated by students in the Leadership class, who then participate in ongoing activities with the PBS students.

Photo courtesy of the Smithtown Central School District: HSW Leadership students (L-R) Kaitlin Unser, Alexa Sheridan and Tara Zamore volunteered as servers during their joint winter dance party with PBS students.