The Floral Park-Bellerose Union Free School District held its first board of education meeting of the 2022-23 school year on Sept. 12.

The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by students in the John Lewis Childs School Color Guard. The club, which began last school year, is comprised of sixth-grade students who were chosen to participate due to displaying school spirit and being respectful of the school and the country’s flag. This year’s club members include Ella Clancy, Sofia Dellagiovanna, Alyssa Jakab, Brayden Leonard, Samantha O’Donohue, Tanisha Patel, Joel Rai, Riley Ring, Maureen Skar and Gabriella Vinanzaca. Overseen by teachers Christina Saunders and Marianna Antonakis, the club members lead assemblies in the Pledge of Allegiance, the national anthem and the JLCS Song.

Following the color guard presentation, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Tara Davidson presented Warren Hance, of the Hance Family Foundation, with a Difference Maker Award due to the nonprofit’s recent $10,000 donation to the district. The district utilized the donation to purchase books with the goal of supporting students’ social-emotional learning skills and self-esteem, as well as providing opportunities to learn about new people and communities.

The meeting continued with a presentation from members of the Floral Park Police Department. Commissioner Stephen G. McAllister, Lieutenant William Doherty and School Resource Officer Kelly Murphy spoke about what the department does to keep students safe. With Murphy, students learn about internet safety, bike safety, bullying, “stranger danger,” and drills.

Interim Superintendent of Schools Lisa Ruiz also took to the podium to present on the district goals for the 2022-23 school year.