Talent aplenty was on display at the Clarkstown High School North Art Show.

The annual event began with an Opening Reception on June 6 at New City Public Library under the leadership of North's Art Department Chairperson Nancy Diamond.

With a large crowd comprised of students, parents, teachers, administrators, a Board of Education member, and friends of the community, Ms. Diamond provided insight about the numerous accomplishments of the North High School students. 

Visitors watched a video that showed pictures of North students who were recognized for their artistic accomplishments.  Honors included Art2 - Double Vision; The Warhol Society and the Edward Hopper House Scholarship for Artistic Curiousity which was awarded to Eric La.

Several students were honored for contests and course awards.  The Principal's Showcase included the following students: Emily Cahill, Judy Cassidy, Hope Cohen, Michelle Cowen, Peter Deak, Danielle Dominianni, Eric La, Anna Lopez, Grace McInerney, Olivia Russo, Vicknesh Shanmuganathan, and Jordan Whidbee.

In addition to watching the video, visitors were able to roam the gallery while observing sketches, portraits, photographs, sculptures and more.

Ms. Diamond was joined at the show by her colleagues, North High School Art Teachers that included Shaina Dunn, Margaret Keuerleber, Erin McNally, Meredith Rickli, and Ron Wolfson.

North Principal Dr. Harry Leonardatos and Board of Education member Walter Litvak were in attendance for the event.

Congratulations to the North teachers and administration for developing the artistic talents of students and for sharing their work with the school community!

"I think we need to work harder to create defining moments for our children. Why? Because it will help define joy!"

                         -Martha Ryan, Strawtown Elementary Principal

The Strawtown Elementray Fifth Grade Moving Up Ceremony put the audience in a reflective mood.

Principal Martha Ryan opened the event on June 8 by informing the students who were assembled on the stage "You may be thinking about your favorite memories."  On that note, she put things into perspective while referencing the four characteristics of a defining moment as determined by authors Chip and Dan Heath: Elevation, Pride, Connection, and Insight.

"Don't wait for life to come to you," said Ms. Ryan to her students. "Pursue your moments and go after your dreams."

Ms. Ryan's advice connects to the message on the cover of the Moving Up Day program which read "No one ever made a difference by being like everyone else."

A total of 53 students were recognized from two separate homerooms: Mr. Bennett and Mrs. King as well as Mrs. Roy and Mrs. King.

The ceremony included two songs performed by students under the direction of Music Teacher Katie Pierce: A Friend Like Me and This is Me.

Congratulations to the Strawtown Fifth Grade students, and all other Fifth Graders throughout the District, as they close the chapter this week on their elementary school education while preparing for the transition to Felix Festa Middle School in September.