'Selfless' Teacher, Students, Honored At North Babylon BOE Meeting

NORTH BABYLON, NY — A widely beloved teacher, as well as accomplished student-atheltes and musicians, were recently recognized for their contributions to North Babylon.

North Babylon High School English teacher JoEllen Mish was honored for "coordinating countless programs" that give back to the students, staff and surrounding community, at a board meeting on Friday.

“Ms. Mish doesn’t wait to be asked to give back; she is always looking for a need, and then creating a plan to meet those needs,” her colleague said. “She doesn’t look for recognition, she is a selfless leader, and a wonderful example for our students and staff. Out of over 600,000 members of the New York State United Teachers’, she was one of two active members to receive the prestigious Community Service Award.”

North Babylon School District Director of Physical Education, Health Education, Recreation and Athletics Jason Friesen also recognized two student-athletes for their outstanding accomplishments.

Cross-country runner Alicia Difilippis was the first North Babylon girls runner to qualify for the state championship, the district said.

She also competed in the All- Federation meet and Nike Cross Regional Championship and National Qualifier.

Soccer goalie Savannah Rogers was recognized as the New York State Player of the Year and also broke several records this season. She was named to first team All-State, Newsday All-Long Island first team and was a four-time All-County selection (the first in North Babylon history).

Several student-musicians were also honored for their accolades this year. Talia Maio, Beth Ganser, Emily Meyer, Gavin Aquino and Llewana D’Silva were named to the New York State Music Educator’s Associations All-County music festival. Aquino, Ganser and D’Silva also received All-State honors.