Every year, the Long Island Orchestrating for Nature (LION) organization recognizes community members or companies who show tremendous efforts and dedication to preserving wildlife and nature. South Huntington is the first school district to receive the prestigious Humane School District of the Year award for the year 2021 by John Di Leonardo, Founder and President of LION.

“South Huntington showed their dedication to wildlife by reaching out to us and contacting us about a drain project that they were doing in a sump nearby, where we ended up working with them to rescue about 20,000 tadpoles and minnows, 2,000 goldfish, and about 150 bullfrogs,” Di Leonardo explained. “As I was discussing wildlife issues with them, I found out about a bunch of other wonderful things they were doing for wildlife, such as a commitment to humane and nonlethal wildlife management of the geese of school property…the school district also recently rescued an owl, and the groundskeepers are always quick to help any animal who’s in need.”

Upon acceptance of the award, Superintendent Dr. Vito D’Elia expressed, “The South Huntington School District is extremely appreciative of this wonderful recognition from LION. Our partnership and working with John has been tremendous.” He went on to say, “It’s been an awesome education for us and our students.”

“On behalf of the South Huntington Board of Education, I would like to thank John for recognizing the tremendous effort our school district has to be mindful and caring toward nature,” said Board of Education Vice President Laura Carey. “We are well aware that LION is a very special company with an important mission. We as a district are humbled and honored to be recognized by such a great organization.”

As stated by D’Elia, “We look forward to the future to continuing to join forces as we keep the wildlife an important part of our community here in South Huntington.”