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 8 board meeting.
Hilton High School Principal Brian Bartalo recognized Monroe County Assistant District Attorney Bianca D’Angelo, an attorney advisor for the Hilton High School Mock Trial team since 2013. A 2004 Hilton graduate, D’Angelo works with the team from December through April teaching trial procedure and polishing their arguments. “We are confident that, because of Bianca’s vast trial knowledge and experience, we are as successful as we have been in the Rochester Area Mock Trial competitions,” said Mary Pignato, team advisor.
Merton Williams Middle School Principal Tracie Czebatol presented the Friends of Education award to Joseph Capria, who reads to seventh and eighth graders for three hours every single school day. “Mr. Capria’s time with students expanded beyond reading and now includes writing support and serving as a positive role model and mentor,” said Czebatol. “Each day, he makes a point to make each student feel as though his or her needs are his only concern in the world.”
Angelo Iacuzza is the recipient of the Friends of Education award for Northwood Elementary School. He volunteers in the kindergarten classrooms helping students with writing assignments, and preparing materials for lessons and literacy stations, along with assisting in the cafeteria, and volunteering for VEPTO events. “Angelo has the rare gift of really listening to a child with genuine interest and joy,” said Principal Kirk Ashton. “When the children see him, they jump up and greet him warmly. They know they have a caring and special friend in Mr. Iacuzza.”
Principal Derek Warren at Quest Elementary School honored Sarah Carbonaro, who volunteers regularly throughout the school. This year, Carbonaro helped organize a Joy Shop at holiday time where students and families could purchase handmade items as gifts, with the proceeds donated to fight hunger locally and globally. “Sarah’s passion for our school is contagious, and her generosity is beyond appreciated,” said Warren.
At Village Elementary School, Principal Dr. Ben Rudd honored John Bateman, who leads students through memorable and impactful hands-on scientific experiences, sharing the expertise he’s cultivated as a research scientist at The College at Brockport. “In doing so, Mr. Bateman provides opportunities for students to learn about science both in and out of the classroom,” said Rudd. “What’s more, he collaborates with teachers in preparing for each visit that has helped to bring our curriculum to life.”
The HCSD Music Department recognized Susan Conolly as the recipient of the Leeroy Williams Music Friends of Education Award. “Ms. Conolly has devoted countless hours and her many talents to outfit the students involved in musical performances,” said Hope Randolph, music teacher. “She has come in to size costumes for students during the school day, make alterations to costumes as needed and, in some cases, has even made new costumes for one or more students from scratch.”
Michael Giruzzi, director of Physical Education and Athletics, recognized Rick “RJ” Pendleton of Village Radio whose broadcasts of athletic events created excitement and support for the student athletes, school and community. “While his station is changing format and will no longer be able to broadcast the games, RJ has offered to donate the equipment and help us as we look to continue the great product that Village Radio began three years ago,” said Giruzzi.
The final Friends of Education award was presented by Superintendent Dr. Casey Kosiorek to the industry mentors for the Hilton High School FIRST Robotics Team. “Each of our mentors has dedicated over 100 hours to growing this rookie team from two high school students to the current 15 members,” said Kosiorek. “The mentors are positive role models, not just within the industry that they work, but also for our students and the wider school community.”
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