Floral Park Memorial administrators and teachers held their first Knights Leadership Program at Elmont Public Library on Monday, November 30th.

The conference was aimed to build a leadership organization for male minority students through thought-provoking, team-building activities. Assistant Principal Mr. Kenny reminded the students of the historical meaning of becoming a Knight, demonstrating courage, generosity, faith and nobility. The program will include monthly meetings with guest speakers and Power Mondays, where students will dress for success. Principal Dr. Sottile, along with Assistant Principals Mr. Kenny and Mrs. Alaimo, created a trusting environment which allowed the students to share personal experiences. Special guests who participated in this event were Mr. Michael Jaime, President of the Elmont Union Free School District Board of Education, and Reverend Jolly.

In addition to trust activities and team building exercises, the students heard two presentations. “Separate but Not Equal,” delivered by Reverend Dr. Marjorie Schiering of Molloy College, focused on her experience teaching during the desegregation movement in the south. Gary Brown, a former Green Bay Packers football player, spoke about the importance of hard work, perseverance and becoming accountable for your actions.

Dr. Sottile hopes that the program will continue to foster bonds among the students and the school community. Just like the PEARLS program, this is in conjunction with the district goal of continuing to promote excellence and equity to all students with a special emphasis on the minority population by increasing and strengthening relationships between staff and students, increasing academic rigor and providing more opportunities for increased involvement in the school community.