Friday, July 11, 2025
Valley Stream District 24 recently marked several student accomplishments that reflect ongoing efforts to support academic development, character education and community involvement throughout the district.
Student Oakley Bray was recognized with the Nassau BOCES George Farber Outstanding Student Award, which honors students across the county who demonstrate responsibility, dedication and strong ethical standards.
The award is named in memory of George Farber, a longtime member of the Nassau BOCES Board who served from 1971 to 2009 and was known for his contributions to public education. Bray’s selection reflects alignment with the values the award is intended to promote.
In mathematics, Valley Stream 24’s fifth and sixth-grade students stood out as the only elementary-level participants to compete and win in the South Asian American Women’s Alliance Recreational Mathematics Contest.
Held online in March and now in its second year, the contest is designed for middle school students and includes a variety of advanced math challenges such as puzzles, riddles and equations that span multiple areas of mathematics. Despite the contest’s middle school focus, the district’s younger students demonstrated strong performance.
“This recognition speaks volumes about the passion, dedication, and
talent of our students and educators,” Superintendent of Schools Unal Karakas said. “We are incredibly proud of our students for their hard work and for representing Valley Stream 24 with such distinction on a regional stage.”
Six students from the district were recognized during a regional celebration hosted by SAAWA on May 18 at Levittown Hall. During the event, Valley Stream 24 received special acknowledgment from the contest organizers for being the first district to show interest in the competition during its inaugural year and for participating again this year.
At Brooklyn Avenue School, the PTA hosted a science fair aimed at encouraging interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The event featured interactive activities led by parent and alumni volunteers, including a hands-on slime-making station presented by Mad Science of Long Island.
“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Brooklyn Avenue School
PTA, the Mad Science team, and all volunteers and visitors for their invaluable contributions,” Brooklyn Avenue School Principal Scott Comis said. “Their support helped create a vibrant and enriching experience that highlighted the power of community in advancing student learning and enthusiasm for STEM.”
The fair was designed to promote student engagement through experiential learning and to involve families in the educational process. Refreshments and door prizes contributed to a community-centered atmosphere.
Together, these recognitions and events reflect Valley Stream District 24’s emphasis on providing a range of learning opportunities that support both academic progress and broader student development.
