At the October 22 Hicksville Board of Education meeting, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ted Fulton recognized members of the Board of Education for their continued dedication and commitment to the district and community in honor of Board of Education Recognition Week.
To begin the celebration, Dr. Fulton acknowledged Ex Officio Student Board Member Christina D’Costa for her service and representation of the student body. Student representatives from each of the district’s seven elementary schools then presented certificates and tokens of appreciation to each Board member. Representing their schools were: Sarah Cueva Martinez (Burns Avenue), Mayar Altaee (Dutch Lane), Logan DiFronzo (East Street), Jayden Bruckner (Fork Lane), Japnaam Kaur (Lee Avenue), Robert Lang (Old Country Road) and Ryleigh O’Neil (Woodland).
Adding their voices of gratitude were Angad Singh and Andi Skaee from Hicksville Middle School, along with Sebastian Kulesza and Kayla Mancuso from Hicksville High School. Each student shared heartfelt remarks, expressing sincere thanks for the Board’s leadership and unwavering dedication to the success of Hicksville’s students.
Following the Board of Education recognitions, Dr. Fulton honored several outstanding community partners whose ongoing efforts continue to make a profound difference in the lives of Hicksville students and families.
Dr. Fulton and the Board recognized Children’s Hope India, including President Dr. Dina Pahlajani, Executive Board Member Moneesha Sani, Ms. Sunita Manjrekar, the entire Board, and their dedicated student volunteers. For many years, Children’s Hope India has worked closely with Hicksville Public Schools to distribute essential resources such as food, clothing, and substantial gift cards to families in need. Their generosity has also allowed hundreds of elementary and middle school students to attend the Young People’s Day Camp tuition-free, providing valuable opportunities for growth, learning, and summer enrichment.
In addition, the organization has contributed thousands of dollars to the WINGS Alternative High School program, supplying healthy snacks and drinks that support students’ well-being and academic success. Ms. Manjrekar, who also serves on the district’s Advisory Board, continues to collaborate with district leaders to ensure programs are child-centered and responsive to student needs. Through their collective efforts, Children’s Hope India remains a steadfast partner in enhancing the educational experience of Hicksville students.
The district also recognized the Kiwanis Club of Hicksville and the Kiwanis Foundation of Hicksville, Inc., under the leadership of President Dr. Edward Saueracker, for their longstanding commitment to service. Hicksville Kiwanis has consistently provided vital support to families in need through donations of food, clothing, and gift cards, as well as academic enrichment and community engagement opportunities. The organization’s initiatives include an extensive High School Scholarship Program awarding $9,000–$11,000 annually, the Youth Awards Breakfast for most improved eighth graders, and sponsorship of the Hicksville High School Key Club.
The Kiwanis also participates in the district-wide Thanksgiving Food Drive in partnership with the PTA and Children’s Hope India, funds eye examinations and glasses for students in need, and assists with travel costs for conferences and competitions.
The organization’s recent “Crazy 8s” Anniversary Banquet and Basket Auction served as a major fundraiser to continue these programs illustrating the group’s dedication to uplifting Hicksville families and strengthening community bonds.
Additionally, Dr. Fulton extended his gratitude to several additional community supporters who helped ensure a successful start to the 2025–2026 school year.Their generosity provided students with essential resources and a strong sense of community connection.
Special thanks were given to:
- Horizon Healthcare Staffing representatives Victoria Barodin (Hicksville High School alumna and Payroll Coordinator) and Ashley Clarke (Scheduling Specialist)
- Harry Malhotra, President of the New York South Asian Chamber of Commerce and Executive Director of the South Asian Advisory Board
- Niti Shah, Community Ambassador for Hicksville Family Partnership Program and Hicksville Community Leader
- Hicksville Boys and Girls Club (Director Tom Bruno)
- The Hicksville Council of PTAs, including Kim Raspanti, Marilyn Kneski, Carolina Molina, and Erin Guida
Closing the evening, Dr. Fulton expressed heartfelt gratitude to all, saying,
“On behalf of the district, thank you. We are grateful for all of these partnerships and appreciate your continued support of Hicksville students and families.”
Through the dedication of the Board of Education, community organizations, and partners, Hicksville Public Schools continues to uphold its mission of empowering every student to achieve success in an environment rooted in care, collaboration, and community.
