The East Meadow School District Art Department proudly presents the 2020 -2021 Young Artist Exhibition. Although we were unable to view the exhibit in person or celebrate together, we are excited to share the work of our students virtually. The exhibition, which will remain on display through May at the Leon J. Campo Salisbury Center, features works of art from students in grades K-12, representing every school in the district.

We would like to thank our students for sharing their talents and for allowing us to experience their work. Our students are leaders in our mission to create and to explore the arts and we hope the exhibit is a representation to our community that we are continuing to celebrate our students and the work they have shared.

We hope you enjoy!

Science teachers throughout the East Meadow School District recently collaborated with Dr. Emily Kang, associate professor at Adelphi University, to implement the New York State Science Learning Standards (NYSSLS) on Global Climate Change and Human Impact. Specifically, students were introduced to the phenomenon of environmental impacts of clothes production.

Eighth grade students calculated the percentage of clothes they wear on a weekly basis and determined their carbon footprint, creating a real-world connection to the lesson. The students brainstormed realistic solutions to lessen the impact of their “fashion footprint” and explored how they could make a direct effect on the environment with their choices.

Teachers across the district have been working with Dr. Kang for the last three years as they prepare to implement the new New York State Science Learning Standards, (NYSSLS). The new science standards were supposed to be implemented this year. However, due to the pandemic, implementation has been delayed by two years.

 “Implementing these standards is radically different from how science has been taught for the last 60 years. By utilizing the talents of Dr. Kang, the district wants to ensure that all teachers are prepared to teach science across the district,” said Dr. David Casamento, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction.   

The East Meadow Board of Education recognized the district’s Terrific Kids and the completion of a symbolic Unity Day mural at their meeting on Nov. 18.

“Terrific Kids is a student recognition program that promotes character development, self-esteem and perseverance,” explained Kevin Kamper, a distinguished past president of the East Meadow Kiwanis Club. “The Kiwanis Club, in partnership with the district, is a proud sponsor of the Terrific Kids award.”

W.T. Clarke Middle School Principal Stacy Breslin and Woodland Middle School Principal James Lethbridge then announced the Terrific Kids from their respective schools for the months of September, October and November. Normally, the chosen students would be presented with special certificates by the board, but due to safety restrictions, they were not able to be present.

Following the presentation of the Terrific Kids, Veronica Nicastro, PTA Council president, and Kelly Gelfer, director of music and art, presented the completed Unity Day mural and its significance. More than 8,000 signed paper hearts make up the rainbow mural, representing the entire East Meadow community. Bordering the mural are individually designed paper butterflies, which were created by members of the East Meadow and W.T. Clarke high school art honor societies.  

“Amid the coronavirus pandemic, rainbows began appearing in windows across the country and became a symbol of hope,” Ms. Gelfer said. “The East Meadow rainbow mural we present this evening reminds us that we are united in hope, love and kindness, and we are all in this together.”