Sammi Klein
Alexa Frontino
Honesty, Kindness, Respect—just a few of the words now colorfully gracing the steps of the east building bridge at Weldon E. Howitt Middle School. They were painted on by seventh grade student Sammi Klein (with help from fellow friends and classmates Juliana Regina and Daniella Alessandro) as part of her quest to earn a Girl Scout Silver Award. She chose bright colors and positive words to give all students who climb the steps an inspiring daily affirmation. Middle school can be hard, and Sammi thought this could help bring a smile to anyone who needs it.
At the top of the staircase, eighth-grader Alexa Frontino painted a colorful wall mural with the words, “Mistakes are proof that you’re trying.” She too is working toward the Girl Scout Silver Award and was helped by fellow classmates Ryan Sweeney, Maialee Bernas, and Melissa Gavarrete.
The girls painted their projects over the winter break so it wouldn’t interfere with the school day. They chose the locations with Principal Pena, who gave them a few options inside Howitt that could use some sprucing up.
The Girl Scout Silver Award is the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette can earn and there are many steps on the journey to receive it. A fundamental part is demonstrating leadership, hence the inclusion of other students in which to lead the project.
Dressed in their Girl Scouts uniforms, the girls presented their projects alongside Superintendent Paul Defendini at the March Farmingdale Board of Education meeting as part of his report on Farmingdale School District’s ongoing beautification projects.