At the Board of Education meeting on May 7th, we had the pleasure of welcoming Silas Wood 6th-Grade Center as our final group of presenters in the district’s series of 100 Year Anniversary presentations.  At one Board meeting each month of this school year, students from each of our school buildings have been performing and/or making special presentations in honor of the district’s centennial.

Silas Wood’s presentation had a nostalgic flavor with a modern twist as they brought notes of history and current trends to the May Board of Education meeting. To start the program, the sixth-grade band, under the direction of Mr. Frank Cannella, awed attendees with the playing of “Defying Gravity” from the recent and popular musical-movie adaptation, Wicked.

Following the live music performance, we were treated to a special reenactment of Silas Wood himself, played perfectly by Diane Gutierrez from the 6th-Grade Center Main Office. Diane, in the role of Silas, introduced students who presented Board members with special binders commemorating the history of the Silas Wood school for the district’s 100th anniversary. The keepsake compilation includes fun facts and rich information about the school building’s history, and about Silas Wood, the West Hills native, lawyer, statesman, and Long Island’s first historian. 

To conclude their presentation, Principal Stephen Toto, along with his students and teachers, presented the final puzzle piece to the Board in our celebration of the South Huntington School District’s 100th anniversary. The final piece of the district puzzle embodies everything that happens at the sixth-grade center. With much effort, the school collaborated on a quote to include, ultimately choosing “From the classroom to the world, Silas Wood is ready for it all!” 

“For the past one hundred years, South Huntington has been a place where students are supported, challenged, and inspired. A place where educators, families, and the community work hand in hand to ensure every child's success,” expressed Principal Stephen Toto. “At Silas Wood, we're proud to be a part of that story. Sixth grade is such an important year, a time of growth, curiosity, and discovery, and we are lucky to help guide our students as they begin this important next chapter. This anniversary is not just a moment to reflect on our past, it's also about celebrating who we are today and where we are headed.”

The puzzle piece also features photos of students throughout the building, whether outside or in the classrooms or at special events hosted throughout the 2024-25 school year. 

Thank you to all our performers and attendees who shared these special moments in honor of our rich history and vibrant future!

Under the direction of Mr. Frank Cannella, the sixth-grade band played “Defying Gravity” from the recent and popular musical-movie adaptation, Wicked.

Attendees of this special BOE meeting were treated to a unique reenactment of Silas Wood himself, played perfectly by Diane Gutierrez from the 6th-Grade Center Main Office.

Students presented Board members with special binders commemorating the history of the Silas Wood, as a keepsake compilation of fun facts and rich information about the school building’s history and about Silas Wood himself.

To conclude their presentation, Principal Stephen Toto, along with his students and teachers, presented the final puzzle piece to the Board in our celebration of the South Huntington School District’s 100th anniversary.