Hegarty Moves to Make a Difference

Students and staff members from Island Park’s Francis X. Hegarty Elementary School excitedly headed out to the field behind the building on Oct. 27 for the annual Winners Walk. Organized by the Student Council in collaboration with the physical education department, this event served as a fundraiser to support those in Florida that were affected by Hurricane Irma.

The event was a great success — the sun shone brightly on the field, energy was abundant and compassionate spirits joined forces to make a difference. Classes from each grade came together and ran, sprinted, walked, skipped and most of all did not give up thanks to support from parents, motivational posters and signs that adorned the fences. Physical Education teachers Annie Bennet-Neglia and Dominick Barone led the way and encouraged the participants, as did other teachers and Principal Jacob Russum.

Student Council members helped spread the word to their families and friends prior to the event, with the guidance of teachers and advisors Patricia Pozin and Denise Benedetto. Their donation will provide relief to Avalon Elementary School, located in Naples, Florida, where the storm’s impact was devastating. Having experienced similar circumstances during Superstorm Sandy in 2012, the Island Park Public Schools feels deeply compassionate toward those in other regions who endured this season’s disasters and students were eager to provide assistance.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Rosmarie Bovino and Assistant Superintendent Vincent Randazzo were among the spectators who cheered from the sidelines. A total of $1,540 was collected for Avalon Elementary School in Florida.

Photos courtesy of Island Park Public Schools