This year, the annual United Federation of Teachers dinner dance will honor three deceased students by announcing eponymous scholarships in their honor. Former students Steven Petillo and Fajir Javid, who died in tragic accidents, and Alexandra Falabella, who lost her battle to cancer, will be recognized with these awards:
- First Annual Steven Petillo Elementary Scholarship.
- First Annual Fajir Javid Elementary Scholarship.
- Second Annual Alexandra Falabella Early Childhood Scholarship.
Educators and school leaders will also be honored for their years of service including:
- P.S. 159 teacher Rochelle Hechter, for 50 years of service.
- UFT members with 30 years of service.
In addition, the Second Annual District 26 Leadership Award will be given to Rob Caloras, president of District 26 Community District Education Council. Parents and teachers are invited to attend the dance or support the event with a donation that can be made out to:
Find out what's happening in Bayside-Douglastonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
UFT/District 26 Scholarship Fund, United Federation of Teachers, 97-77 Queens Blvd., 5th Floor, Rego Park, NY 11374, Attention: Mary Vaccaro District 26 UFT Representative.