Bellew Elementary Students Learn About Local Heroes

Valerie Pfundstein, a kindergarten teacher and author of “Veterans: Heroes in Our Neighborhood,” visited West Islip’s Paul J. Bellew Elementary School in June as part of the school’s celebration of the monthly character education trait of patriotism. Among the attendees were several Bellew parents who are active or retired service members.

During Pfundstein’s assemblies, students learned how real-life “superheroes” are all around them in the form of humble but heroic veterans, and about the meanings of the Blue Star, Gold Star and Purple Heart. The students were also encouraged to ask their local veterans to share their stories so they can be recorded for future generations.

Photos courtesy of the West Islip School District