Administrators, staff and students gathered outside Waverly Park Elementary School for a ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open the school’s new playground on April 20. Senator Todd Kaminsky was the guest of honor as he helped secure funding for the project.

Approximately two years ago, Senator Kaminsky visited the school and spoke to administrators and staff about what was needed. With his support, the school was the recipient of a $125,000 Dormitory Authority of the State of New York grant for a brand new, state-of-the art playground. 

To prepare for the opening celebration, each class decorated the playground with paper chains marked with words of excitement and their plans to use the new school addition. The ceremony kicked off with the singing of the National Anthem and welcoming remarks from Principal Lucille McAssey. 

“The playground has become the most popular activity at recess,” she said. “It's also wonderful to see the large number of Waverly Park students and community members enjoying the new structure during their free time after school and on weekends. Our entire school community is extremely grateful to Senator Kaminsky for this very special gift.” 

Class representatives also showed their gratitude to Senator Kaminsky by reading thank you cards during the ceremony. Each student spoke about how they will utilize the playground and how much joy it has already brought them. The students gifted Senator Kaminsky with the cards at the end. 

“Lynbrook and East Rockaway are vibrant communities and incredible places to raise a family,” said Senator Todd Kaminsky. “I was proud to secure funding to build a brand-new playground that will provide children enjoyment for decades to come. In Albany, I will continue to fight to ensure our community gets its fair share from the state.”

In addition, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Melissa Burak spoke about how the new playground will benefit future generations and extended her gratitude to the district’s facilities department led by Director of Facilities James Saitta, Assistant Superintendent for Finance, Operations, and Information Systems Dr. Paul Lynch and the Senator, who made the playground a reality. 

“Senator Kaminsky, you have done so much,” said Dr. Burak. “Thank you for allowing students to have a balanced learning environment that also enables them to play, as evidence by this playground. The district is thankful for all your support here at Waverly Park.” 

To conclude the ceremony, the Waverly Park band, led by band instructor Robert Collorafi, performed “You’re a Grand Old Flag” and Senator Kaminsky cut the red ribbon as students cheered.

Video courtesy of Kaminsky Press