The Sewanhaka Central High School District marked the passage of its $86.6 million bond referendum at a groundbreaking ceremony held at Alva T. Stanford Fields on Sept. 17.
Superintendent Dr. Ralph Ferrie, board of education members and school officials were joined by elected officials and community members at the site, the first in the district to see improvement as part of the bond’s approval.
During his opening remarks, Ferrie expressed his gratitude to those who supported the district’s efforts in the development and approval of the bond, which will contribute significant upgrades and renovations to the district’s five schools-Elmont Memorial High School, Floral Park Memorial High School, H. Frank
Carey High School, New Hyde Park Memorial High School and Sewanhaka High School.
“Please let me thank your board of education for their courage and commitment to our school district,” Ferrie said.
District students participated in the ceremony, including Rhuberlyne Toussaint, who recited the Pledge of Allegiance, and Jermaine Carroll, who sang “The Star
Spangled Banner.” The Elmont Vocal Jazz Select Choir also performed “Route 66,” under the direction of Eileen Kramer.
Guest speaker Sen. Jack Martins said the passage of the bond was a game-changer.
“This is the first step in a long journey and it’s almost apropos that it starts here because everyone in the community uses this facility,” Senator Martins said.
“These upgrades to the district are so overdue. ”
Board of Education president David Fowler said the evening marked a new beginning for the district and expressed thanks to those who devoted so much time and energy to make the bond referendum a reality.
“We are one district,” Fowler said. “Our communities came together so that our children now and coming up will have outstanding facilities.”
The evening concluded with Jenna Turato, student government president at H. Frank Carey High School, and Jay Shah, the student council president from New Hyde Park Memorial High School, expressing their excitement to see the upcoming improvements.
“It’s amazing to hear how all five schools have come together to make a difference,” Shah said.
