Every school year the Hilton Board of Education honors individuals and organizations in the Hilton school community who have contributed to the education of Hilton students through volunteering or other efforts. This year’s Friends of Education were recognized at the May 12 board meeting.
Hilton High School Principal Brian Bartalo recognized parents Ron Bourret and Steve DeLucia for their work with the Drama Club. “Ron and Steve have each volunteered over 50 hours of their personal time to design and build sets,” said Bartalo. This year’s production of “The Spell of Sleeping Beauty” featured especially elaborate sets, which were made possible in large part by Bourret and DeLucia.
Representing the Music Department, Chairperson Nancy Russo presented the award to Jim Whittemore, parent, for volunteering countless hours to the Hilton music program. Over the past six years, he had designed, built, painted and coordinated sets for both the High School musicals and Drama Club. “His willingness to help and his positive rapport with all of the district’s music staff is unparalleled,” said Russo.
Athletic Director Michael Giruzzi recognized Tony Caraglio of Caraglio’s Pizza for going out of his way as a Hilton business to give back to the school, community and athletic program. Caraglio’s was the first sponsor of the Cadet Crew student fan group, sponsored a halftime challenge and the Corporate Challenge, provided food for Captains’ Lunches and employs Hilton students.
Merton Williams Middle School Principal Tim Dobbertin presented the award to Christine Gizzi, a parent and volunteer who regularly supervises the Student of the Month room where students can go during lunch to play games and socialize. She is also an invaluable volunteer during team spirit days and other special events, and often donates food items for the events. “Her joyful attitude is infectious to be around and we always enjoy having her here,” said Dobbertin.
Northwood Elementary School Principal Kirk Ashton recognized volunteer Joan Potter for her work with the library programs and kindergarteners. Potter reads to children, shelves books, does an end-of-year inventory, works the book fairs, helps with author visits, creates displays, and works with kindergarteners on their reading and writing. “Joan always goes above and beyond in her volunteer roles to help make Northwood a positive and welcoming place,” said Ashton.
Village Elementary Principal Tracie Czebatol recognized The Old Cruzers, a motorcycle club, for helping students in need. The group has donated shoes, socks, clothing, toys and gifts for dozens of Village students. “Their work and contributions made the lives of many students a lot brighter during the holiday season as well as every day of the school year,” said Czebatol.
Karen Reynolds, a volunteer at Quest Elementary School, was recognized by Principal Renee Mulrooney for her work over the past 23 years assisting Quest teachers and helping to organize special events, such as the Thanksgiving feast. “Her ‘can do’ attitude is contagious and when Karen is in the building, we know she is going to ask ‘What do you need?’ and ‘How can I help?’ She is just that kind of person who never stops giving,” said Mulrooney.
The district-wide Friends of Education Award was presented by Superintendent David Dimbleby to George Kaufman for the many hats he has worn in the Hilton community. As past president and founding member of the Hilton-Hamlin Chamber of Commerce, Kaufman was instrumental in bringing the national Make a Difference Day to Hilton. Eight years later the event is still going strong with 250 volunteers fanning out across the community to address needs in the village, town and school district.
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