Sharks Shine Bright
The Eastport-South Manor Central School District recently celebrated the achievements of outstanding students and its Unified Basketball team during the Board of Education meeting this week recognizing individuals whose perseverance, dedication and sportsmanship have made a lasting impact throughout
The Eastport-South Manor Central School District recently celebrated the achievements of outstanding students and its Unified Basketball team during the Board of Education meeting this week recognizing individuals whose perseverance, dedication and sportsmanship have made a lasting impact throughout the school community.
Assistant Superintendent for Special Education and Student Support Services Benjamin Franquiz introduced the honorees, highlighting their accomplishments and the positive example they set both in and out of the classroom.
The evening began with the recognition of graduating seniors Benjamin Halucha and Carmen Ortega Osorio, who were each named Students of the Year by the Long Island Association of Special Education Administrators (LISEA). The prestigious honor recognizes students from Nassau and Suffolk counties who demonstrate exceptional perseverance, personal growth and outstanding character.
Through Eastport-South Manor's Work Experience Program, Halucha became a valued member of The Baking Coach team while also participating on the district's Unified Bowling and Unified Basketball teams. Following graduation, he will attend an adult program through RISE while continuing his employment at The Baking Coach.
Ortega Osorio attended the Cleary School for the Deaf, where she embraced academic challenges while inspiring classmates with her kindness and compassion. This fall, she will attend the National Technical Institute for the Deaf at Rochester Institute of Technology, where she plans to major in advertising photography.
The Board of Education also recognized the Eastport-South Manor Unified Basketball team following an outstanding 7-1 season. Throughout the year, the student-athletes demonstrated tremendous teamwork, sportsmanship and determination while building confidence and creating lasting friendships.
Beyond their success on the court, the team served as a shining example of the district's commitment to inclusion, proving that athletics have the power to bring students together and celebrate the strengths of every participant.
The evening was a fitting celebration of students whose hard work, resilience and positive attitudes continue to make Eastport-South Manor proud while inspiring others throughout the school community.
