Students at South Middle School in the Lynbrook Public School District received a special visit from former New York Rangers player Stéphane Matteau on March 10.

Mr. Matteau spoke to 6th, 7th and 8th graders about what his life was like growing up in Montreal, Canada. The students were able to relate to him as he spoke on a personal level and explained the obstacles overcame as a child.

He shared stories about overcoming social and emotional hardships and urged students to authentically be who they are.

Students learned that Mr. Matteau’s role as a hockey player was “role-player,” which means that he played under certain circumstances, but wasn’t deemed “the best player.” He encouraged the students to talk about their feelings and be optimistic when faced with big life decisions, which he also shares in his book, “Make It Happen: Hockey Star and Activist.” His visit was led by teacher Liz Famiglietti, who prepared students by offering a book club to read Mr. Matteau’s book and familiarize students with his life.

Date Added: 4/11/2022

Students at North and South Middle Schools in the Lynbrook Public School District attended Health Fairs at their respective schools, which offered tips and presentations on mental and physical wellness.

Groups of students took turns visiting booths that focused on information about drugs and alcohol, stress management, smoking, hygiene, bullying and more. Each station was hosted by volunteer medical students from Molloy College.

Students also participated in trivia and challenges focused on healthy lifestyles, including a session of hula hooping at South Middle.

Date Added: 4/6/2022

Students at South Middle School in the Lynbrook Public School District took part in a virtual talk with the Broadway creative team behind “BIG, The Musical."

The students put together questions for composer David Shire, an Academy Award and Grammy Award winner, lyricist Richard Maltby Jr., a Tony Award winner, and book writer John Weidman, an Emmy winner. They were also joined by actor Dan Jenkins, who originated the part of Josh Baskin in the 1996 Broadway production.

South Middle students and staff were grateful to the writers for volunteering their time to talk to the class.

Date Added: 4/4/2022