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(standing from L-R) Dr. Samuel Thompson, Dr. Jennifer Olsen, Mike Gavalas, Michael Ferretti, Paul Defendini, and Joe Valentine, (sitting from L-R) Gavin Rogers, Kathy Lively, Ralph Vincent Morales, Suzanne D’Amico, Kathie Gaghan, and Cordelia Anthony
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(back row from L-R) Dr. Samuel Thompson, Michael Goldberg, Paul Defendini, Ralph Vincent Morales, Gavin Rogers, Joe Valentine, Mike Gavalas (front row from L-R) Suzanne D’Amico, Kathie Gaghan, Kathy Lively, Dr. Jennifer Olsen, Cordelia Anthony, Michael Ferretti
Farmingdale School District's Superintendent, Paul Defendini, was honored as a "school hero" by the Long Island Coalition Against Bullying (LICAB) at their annual awards event on October 21, 2024. He and twenty-one other educators were recognized for their commitment to creating safe and inclusive student environments. Attendees included educators, community leaders, and Mr. Defendini's family and colleagues.
"These heroes were selected for their unwavering dedication to fostering safe, supportive, and inclusive environments for students," said the coalition's founder and executive director, Joe Salamone. "Their contributions go beyond the classroom, impacting the lives of countless young people across our Long Island communities."
Mr. Defendini expressed his gratitude for the recognition and emphasized the importance of teamwork among educators, parents, and students to combat bullying. "Every member of our school community plays a vital role in ensuring that our schools are places where every student feels valued and safe."