Ansonia, Derby school volunteers honored

Contributed photo

Mario Ciccarini, Principal of Bradley School in Derby, Joe Apicella and Sherrod McNeill, Principal and Assistant Principal of John G. Prendergast School in Ansonia, top row from left, are pictured with Anne Stankye, Richard Breeden, and Dora Olivera, from left, as they were honored March 11 at the Connecticut Association of Schools Volunteer Banquet at the Aqua Turf Club in Southington.

 CAS proudly celebrates this event annually to publicly acknowledge the work of parents and other volunteers for their contributions to schools across the state.
More than 550 participants from 78 elementary, middle and high schools were treated to a four course meal and entertained by pianist Kim Quinn from Albert D. Griswold Middle School in Rocky Hill.

Honorees were presented with plaques and corsages to commemorate their service.
John Maziarz, Commercial Sales Account Manager for Connecticut Natural Gas and a volunteer for Junior Achievement was the keynote speaker.
In his remarks Maziarz stated that “Volunteers are the silent heroes of our schools.” He said,  “… they may be silent in what they do, but their impact is great.”

Dora Olivera was one recipient from Prendergast School.  She has become a regular grandparent volunteer at Prendergast School, helping in the main office.
Olivera began her volunteering this year when her grandchildren, Nyasia and Jacob began.  From making copies to distributing notices, Olivera helps make the school run smoothly.  Always willing to go out of her way to help others, she has taken over as “staff photographer” at many school events.

Rich Breeden was also recognized by Prendergast School. Breeden is another grandparent volunteer. He has been helping at Prendergast School for the past four years starting when his granddaughter, Viviana began school here.
Breeden can frequently be seen helping in our cafeteria with lunch duty. He has also become our “House Band” providing his musical talents at many of our events.
From playing his holiday songs during our December Pancakes with Santa, to playing his Halloween music at our Haunted Halls events, Breeden helps to entertain the children, parents and the staff of Prendergast.

Anne Stankye was recognized by Bradley School. She has been volunteering at Bradley School for many years. She works with Kindergarten students and their teachers, whether it is making copies, helping students with arts and crafts, or working with a small group of students at a station. Stankye is a lifelong resident of Derby and a role model for our students.

The Connecticut Association of Schools and its corporate partner, Horace Mann Insurance, along with CAS' official photographers, G & B Photography, celebrate the contributions of volunteers who share their time, talents, and commitment to quality education in Connecticut schools.


This post is taken from a press release from John G. Prendergast School.