Commack Students Creating Holiday Hope for Others

By Brenda Lentsch

Two classes at Mandracchia Sawmill Intermediate School teamed up to collect toys, clothes, games, and gift cards with the hope of creating a special holiday for a family living in the Commack community. The two classes visit each other regularly as part of the school’s Bully Buddy program. The Bully Buddy program encourages students to stand up against bullying by teaching skills and strategies that help children deal with issues related to bullying. An important aspect of the program is teaching kids that they should work together to help one another.

In early December, students and parents from Jennifer Murphy’s third grade class and Tom Zielinski’s fifth grade class gathered to wrap all of the gifts for their adopted family (photo).  Thanks to the generosity of others, one family is sure to have a happy and enjoyable holiday season!