June 18, 2021

Clear skies, bright smiles and warm hearts filled the grounds of Laurel Plains Elementary School as June 18, 2021 was declared Carol Pilla Day. Attendees donned shirts bearing her moniker and the number 56 to represent her years of service to the district. Children sang, colleagues expressed their gratitude and the community applauded Principal Carol Pilla for her decades of educational excellence. 

Ms. Pilla has served the Clarkstown Central School District for 56 years, including 29 years as principal at Laurel Plains and 27 years as a teacher at Bardonia. She championed efforts in the area of special education, and the importance that school be a place where all children can succeed. In recognition of her impact, the Clarkstown Board of Education announced that she will be welcomed into the District's Hall of Fame, and the new “Carol Pilla Way” was dedicated in her honor. Laurel Plains alumni joined the celebration, including a special serenade by Cassie Gutierrez (LP Class of 2013).

"Carol Pilla Day was an absolutely treasured event to honor the service of an individual who served the Clarkstown Central School District for 56 years,” said Superintendent Dr. Martin D. Cox. “Ms. Pilla's service, commitment and dedication to students, parents, teachers, and staff is a true inspiration. I was impressed with the musical performances by current and former students along with the heartwarming comments by administrators, staff, and Board of Education members as they celebrated Ms. Pilla. I wish her great health and happiness during her retirement." 

In her final words at the ceremony, Ms. Pilla addressed the children, thanking them for being a “perfect Laurel Plains audience” and for being “the best they can be.” 

“I love all of you. Do well.”

Thank YOU Ms. Pilla for being the best YOU could be and beyond, and for enriching the lives of hundreds of children and families in the Clarkstown Central School District. You will be dearly missed.

Watch the Video: https://videos.ccsd.edu/Watch/f9KTd47W

View the Photo Gallery: https://photos.app.goo.gl/yKUeaES4XNc1Z9my5