Valley Stream 24 Celebrates Student Leadership and Civic Engagement

The Valley Stream 24 School District proudly announces the election of its new Student Council members across all three schools. District administrators, Board of Education trustees, families, and community legislators were in attendance as students at Brooklyn Avenue School, William L. Buck School, and Robert W. Carbonaro School delivered thoughtful and inspiring speeches before selecting their new student leaders.

Among those present were New York State Senator Patricia Canzoneri Fitzpatrick, Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, and Assemblywoman Judy Griffin, whose attendance reflected strong community support for student voice and civic engagement. At Robert W. Carbonaro School, a former Student Council President was invited to speak to students, offering meaningful words of encouragement and advice that reinforced the impact of student leadership across generations.

Student speeches highlighted how leadership can strengthen collaboration to create events and experiences that are meaningful, inclusive, and engaging for all students. This further reinforced the importance of student voice in shaping positive school culture.

“I was truly impressed by the confidence and thoughtfulness of our students, as well as the way they wove our District motto, Make the Connection, Innovating Our Future, into their speeches,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Unal Karakas. “It was powerful to see that Make the Connection, Innovating Our Future is not just a phrase, but something our students are beginning to internalize and live. Their vision for leadership rooted in collaboration, service, and partnership reflects the positive culture we continue to build across our schools.”

The seamless execution of these celebrations was made possible through the dedication of the Student Council advisors in each school who worked collaboratively with their building principals to bring these events to life. At Brooklyn Avenue School, Mrs. Ponzo Byrams and Mrs. Casucci partnered with Principal Comis; at William L. Buck School, Ms. Iadevaio and Mrs. Campo worked closely with Principal DeBlasio; and at Robert W. Carbonaro School, Mrs. Fowler and Mrs. Haufler coordinated alongside Principal Iacono to support and guide student leaders throughout this meaningful process.

The Valley Stream 24 School District congratulates all newly elected Student Council members and extends sincere recognition to every student who had the courage to stand before their peers and speak publicly. Their bravery, confidence, and commitment to leadership are a reflection of the connected culture Valley Stream 24 is proud to cultivate across its schools.

For more information about Valley Stream 24, please visit the District’s website at https://valleystreamschooldist... and ‘like’ our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/VS24S... #MakeTheConnection #VS24 #InnovatingOurFuture