First-graders in Ms. Sardone's class had a terrific start to Woodward Parkways "Week of Thanks" with reading The Gratitude Jar by Katrina Liu.

This beautiful story highlights the importance of being grateful for what you have and the people around you. Each student shared one special thing and wrote it on a colorful strip for the classroom Gratitude Jar. Ms. Sardone will read these messages of gratitude throughout the year to help build happiness and unity in the classroom.

Twenty-six educators were honored as School Heroes by the Long Island Coalition Against Bullying (LICAB) for their dedication to creating safe and inclusive learning environments for students.

The honorees included Woodward Parkway Principal Dr. Patrick Klocek and Assistant Principal Dr. Jennifer DeHayes, as well as recent retiree Dr. William Sperduto, who served for many years as a District Psychologist. The recognition took place during a reception on October 20 at the Stonebridge Golf & Country Club in Smithtown. Attendees included educators, community leaders, members of the Board of Education, family, and colleagues.

“Our honorees remind us that real impact is not measured in statistics or applause, but in the single moment, single student and single act of kindness that can alter a child’s path,” said Joe Salamone, the coalition’s founder and executive director.

Let's give a round of applause to Dr. Patrick Klocek, Dr. Jennifer DeHayes, and Dr. William Sperduto!

(from L-R) Board of Education Trustee George Andriopoulous, Deputy Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Olsen, Board of Education Trustee Kathy Lively, Dr. Patrick Klocek, Dr. Jennifer DeHayes, Dr. William Sperduto, Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini, Board of Education Trustee Gavin Rogers, and Executive Director of Special Education Donald Cassidy.

Hearts were bursting with red, white, and blue pride as Woodward Parkway Elementary School launched a new tradition by hosting its first school-wide Veterans Day Celebration. On Friday, November 7, 2025, the entire school welcomed dozens of local veterans and their families for a day of hugs, handshakes, and thanks! To ensure every student had a chance to share their gratitude, Woodward Parkway held three assemblies throughout the morning.

This celebration was a collaborative effort across all school departments. Students created a vibrant display of paintings featuring American landscapes during art class, serving as a beautiful artistic tribute to the nation the veterans defended. During the assemblies, students sang patriotic songs, led by the Music teachers, as a thank you to the visiting heroes. Every class participated in educational activities, where students learned about the meaning of Veterans Day and the importance of patriotism through reading and discussions. Outside the building, the local Boy Scout Troop contributed by creating a Field of Honor, a display of flags that welcomed everyone arriving at the school.

Similarly, students at Alabany Avenue hosted a touching ceremony and engaged in community service to honor those who served.

The Veterans Day Assembly at Albany Avenue featured the presentation of the colors by Veterans from the Marine Corps League Sunrise Detachment. We were proud to welcome a veteran parent and member of the Detachment, who spoke to students about the significance of Veterans Day and the importance of our flag. The assembly also included a performance by our school chorus and a slideshow honoring school veterans. In a wonderful demonstration of support, the school organized a food drive for the Veterans Food Pantry in East Meadow. The visiting veterans graciously accepted all the donated items, which were then delivered directly to the food pantry.

Beyond the featured assemblies, the importance of Veterans Day was a focal point across schools in the district. Many teachers engaged students in classroom activities designed to teach them about the history of the holiday, the role of the U.S. military, and the concept of civic duty. Additionally, the meaning of Veterans Day and a message of gratitude were shared with students daily via morning announcements, ensuring a unified and consistent expression of respect throughout the district.

Third graders in Mrs. Leff’s class at Woodward Parkway had a blast using Skittles to explore the Commutative Property of Multiplication! By building arrays (rows and columns) with the candies, students didn't just memorize a rule; they discovered the property. This hands-on activity is a fun, hands-on way to make sense of a key multiplication rule!

The courtyard at Woodward Parkway was the place to be for Pumpkin Day! Our students had a blast picking out the perfect pumpkin to decorate. The celebration continued with fall stories, pumpkin dances, crafts, and special pumpkin treats. So much fall fun and creativity.