Thousands of students and staff across the Central High School District once again learned the mission of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s call for service and carried on his legacy during the districtwide Day of Service on Jan. 17.
Students packaged up donations for local shelters and human services organizations. Various items had been collected by each of the district’s six buildings during the past month.
“This day has become a part of the district’s continued commitment to supporting families in need in and around our community,” said Mepham High School Principal Eric Gomez.
Most of the schools learned about the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. during social studies classes and had meaningful conversations about service and what it means.
“Hopefully, the conversations in their social studies classes inspired students with ideas for how to make Monday a day on rather than a day off,” said Calhoun High School Principal Nicole Hollings said.
At Grand Avenue Middle School, “the students and staff sorted and packaged over 4,000 food items that were collected over the past two months,” according to Principal Carlo Conte.
Students at Merrick Avenue Middle School packaged up bags with a winter warmth theme that included soup, tea, hot cocoa and more.
At Kennedy High School, they packed 80 bags of socks and winter weather gear such as hats, scarves and gloves.
“It is also an important reminder that every act of kindness and generosity, no matter how small it may seem in the moment, is an integral part of a much larger effort in serving others,” said Principal Gerard Owenburg.
The Meadowbrook Alternative Program community collected pet supplies and then on Jan. 17 visited Canine Companions for Independence and delivered the items.
“We raised more $300 with another $300 kicked in from BMUST [Bellmore-Merrick United Secondary Teachers] to support CCI,” explained Dr. Joseph Netto, the school psychologist at MAP. “We also dropped of pet food to Bobbi and the Strays.
District students also included handwritten inspirational quotes from Dr. King in the bags. In addition to stocking the district-run food pantry, the Community Cupboard, items were also delivered by students and staff to various organizations around Long Island.
“Let us all remember the spirit of the day,” said Deputy Superintendent Dr. Mara Bollettieri. “You have all played a role in motivating and inspiring our students in providing service and touching the lives of others. We hope that they will carry the lesson they learn forward into their future learning, work and lives.”