Golden Gala

Pictured (l-r): The Golden Gala Court consisted of Orren VanOrden (Prince), Virginia Tross (Princess), Larry Nicastro (King), Kay DiLaura (Queen). After photos the group took the dance floor for a spotlight dance. Students chose the Golden Gala court based on the following criteria: seniors who danced the most and who looked like they were having the most fun at the event.

In October 2005, students celebrated National Make A Difference Day with a special group of people in our community. Over 150 senior citizens, students and staff attended a Golden Gala in the high school gym. The event was designed especially for our senior citizen population. Guests enjoyed horsd'oeuvres and desserts while listening and dancing to musical selections from the high school jazz ensemble and high school chorus soloists. The Blue Notes were also on hand playing big band dance music.

For several weeks students geared up for the Golden Gala and had as much fun dancing as the guests did. Special thanks to teachers Kathy Winans, Shari Berg, Gary Simboli, Dale Smalley, Toni Plummer, Valerie Basinait, Kim Nesbitt and Jay Kovaleski for preparing students for this event. This event was made possible by a NYS Learn and Serve America grant which connects curriculum to community needs and service.

Pictured: Gala attendee Chuck Vick dances with Jessica, a high school senior. Students dressed up for the event in formal attire and took a crash course in ballroom dancing during their physical education classes.

Pictured: High School students greet guests as they arrive at the Golden Gala. Guests registered at the table for a chance at one of 20 student made door prizes. They also filled out forms that asked about their favorite school memories and what they want students to know about what it means to be successful in life.

Pictured: A group of friends find a table near the dance floor at the beginning of the event. Tables were decorated wit purple cloths, white napkins and fall harvest centerpieces. Purple and gold balloons surrounded the gym. The event began with everyone singing the school's Alma Mater.

Pictured: Group and individual photos were taken of guests. The photos were then printed at the table and given to guests as a souvenir before they left. The backdrop was made by students in high school photography class. The photography students also taught other students how to take photos of guests at the Gala.

Pictured: Janice and Lena stop for a photo before leaving. As guests left, they were each given a balloon. Many won pumpkin centerpieces that were made by students in middle and high school special education classes.