Every two months, Parkway Elementary School nourishes students’ social-emotional learning through Parkway C.A.R.E.S. Organized by Assistant Principal Janine Farinella, the program aligns with the Responsive Classroom approach and represents the competencies of cooperation, assertiveness, responsibility, empathy and self-control.

With each focus, Ms. Farinella discusses what the competencies mean in a comprehensive video, which is shown to classes throughout the school. The video includes worksheets, questions to ask and reading materials relating to the skills. Each teacher then incorporates the skills into their lessons with in-class activities which are then sent to Ms. Farinella. Submitted items include pictures and video highlighting the activities, which Ms. Farinella then puts together a slideshow commending the entire school community for their hard and meaningful work.

Parkway C.A.R.E.S reflects the vital social-emotional curriculum the East Meadow School District has adopted. The curriculum encourages important skills for students of all ages for them to employ inside and outside of the classroom. It also bonds students in different classrooms during a time when they may not be able to have that in-person connection.

Fifth graders at Parkway Elementary School celebrated their upcoming graduation during Fifth Grade Fun Day on June 7. Students played volleyball, kickball and basketball, and were also able to create chalk art on the building’s sidewalks.

The East Meadow School District was once again able to commend their student artists in person at their districtwide art show at the Leon J. Campo Salisbury Center on June 1 and 2. Students, families and community members were invited to visit the show during specified times, allowing for a safe and enjoyable viewing.

“While viewing artwork in a virtual capacity is certainly wonderful, nothing compares to experiencing original works of art in person,” Art Department Chairperson Heather Anastasio said. “We are thrilled to be able to bring this experience to our student artists and their families.”

Art teachers from throughout the district were also in attendance to celebrate the work of their students. Each teacher chose 13 works of art from their classes, including those who were included in this year’s virtual All-County Art Exhibit but were unable to have their work displayed in person. The evening was also a welcome return for the community, which has always greatly supported the district’s art program.

“I would like to thank the East Meadow community for the continued celebration and support of our program,” Director of Music and Art Kelly Gelfer said. “The district’s commitment to the arts continues to be our biggest strength.”