Maplewood Intermediate School took the spotlight at the February 12th Board of Education meeting as we continue South Huntington’s 100th anniversary festivities. At one BOE meeting each month, students from one of our schools will perform and/or make special presentations in honor of our centennial.

Maplewood’s theme for this school year is Your Voice Matters. The teaching concept is based on the book of the same title by Lauren Taylor that was distributed to all classes at Maplewood back in September.  As principal Maria Colon expressed while proudly introducing the 5th Grade Chorus for their performance, “We looked at the guidance students need as they learn, grow, and prepare for the world outside the classroom.  And it’s very likely the same thing they needed 100 years ago.  They need us. They need us to teach, guide, support, and love them.  They need us to value what they have to say and to offer.”

The chorus treated the packed audience at the James Kaden Administrative Offices building to two rousing songs under the direction of music educator Jennifer Belisle. The first song, Give Us Hope by Jim Papoulis, speaks of the potential that hope can bring, especially to the lives of children. The song was beautifully accompanied on keyboard by chorus member Vivian Phan. The second song, the very upbeat Celebrate Tonight, was all about enjoying the moment and celebrating special times.

Maplewood then presented a video that was prepared by Project Excel students. To the song Our Voices Matter by Jonathan Butler, it showcased photos from the school’s past that were recently discovered in the building’s time capsule that was first enclosed in the 1950s, and photos of Maplewood today.  It also featured students sharing examples of how their voices matter.  

Students next presented board members with copies of a book they created about why they love their school.  They wrapped up their program with the presentation of Maplewood’s puzzle piece.  It includes a photo of the school, the Wildcat mascot, paw prints, and Maplewood’s motto: “I have the chance each and every day to do it the Maplewood way.  Let’s do it right.  It’s nice to be important but important to be nice!”  Each South Huntington school is creating a puzzle piece to eventually fit together in one big form representing all seven of the district’s schools.   

We thank Maplewood’s students and teachers, principal Maria Colon, and assistant principal Stephanie Villanueva for all the hard work everyone put in getting ready for this performance!  You did such a great job making us all feel so proud of our school district’s rich history and enduring legacy.  

The chorus treated the packed audience at the James Kaden Administrative Offices building to two rousing songs under the direction of music educator Jennifer Belisle.

Give Us Hope by Jim Papoulis, was beautifully accompanied on keyboard by Maplewood chorus member Vivian Phan.

Maplewood wrapped up their program with the presentation of their building’s puzzle piece.