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Joining Together for Walk to School Day at JFK

A group of students and adults walk across a crosswalk on a sunny day. thumbnail267775
A group of students and adults walk across a crosswalk on a sunny day. thumbnail267777
A group of children with backpacks smile for the camera outdoors. thumbnail267778
A group of students and adults walk across a crosswalk on a sunny day. thumbnail267779
A group of students and adults walk across a crosswalk on a sunny day. thumbnail267780
Students, staff, and families at John F. Kennedy Elementary School joined together on Oct. 1 to celebrate Walk to School Day, an event that promotes healthy habits, community spirit and pedestrian safety.

The morning began with students meeting at a designated point, where they were greeted by Principal Denisha Van Liew, teachers and parents. Together, they walked as a group to school, building excitement and camaraderie before the start of the day.

This annual nationwide initiative highlights not only physical activity but also the importance of safe walking routes and environmentally friendly practices. By leaving cars at home, families are encouraged to reduce traffic congestion around schools and lessen their carbon footprint.

The event concluded at the school entrance, where students gathered for a group photo before the start of the school day. The West Babylon School District looks forward to continuing this tradition, emphasizing health, safety, and community engagement each year.

JFK Students Honor 9/11 with Art

Fifth grade students in Ms. Castelli’s class at John F. Kennedy Elementary School. thumbnail267608

Fifth grade students in Ms. Castelli’s class at John F. Kennedy Elementary School took part in a meaningful tribute to Sept. 11, creating projects that combined creativity, compassion and remembrance.

As part of their learning and reflection, students folded origami paper cranes and designed quilt squares inspired by themes of hope, peace and unity. The origami cranes, recognized worldwide as a symbol of healing and resilience, served as a reminder of the strength and recovery of the nation following the events of Sept. 11, 2001. The cranes will be joined together to create a peace sign.

In addition, each student crafted a quilt square featuring artwork and inspirational messages. When pieced together, the squares will create a commemorative quilt — a lasting representation of unity, remembrance and community spirit.

The activity encouraged students to honor the memory of 9/11 while expressing themselves through art. By engaging in this project, they gained a deeper understanding of the importance of remembrance and the lessons of unity that emerged from the tragedy.

 

Click here to view the JFK Students Honor 9/11 with Art slideshow.

 

Date Added: 9/12/2025