It was a day of history and excitement as P.S. 216 Arturo Toscanini in Gravesend marked its 100th anniversary on June 4. The celebration inlcuded extensive intrior and exterior decorations, the school's small orchestra welcoming parents and guests in the front lobby, a photo exhibit in the cafeteria showcasing each of P.S. 216's ten decades and more.
The celebration included a morning assembly that included about 200 parents, alumni and former principals. Students greeting guests were dressed like it was 100 years ago, with female students in flapper costumes and male students wearing white straw boater hats. A film presentation showcased the school's history and what students thought about their historic institution.
Principal Donna Neglia welcomed the audience to the "once in a lifetime" celebration of P.S. 216.
"We remember that teachers and educators built this school from the ground up," Neglia said. "A hundred years ago, our school was planted and it grew like a seed. The students' dreams are proof that American education is alive. As we begin our second century, we at P.S. 216 will not only prepare for tests, but prepare for life."
After a dance routine, seven students performed monologues of noted alumni, including District 21 Superintendent Isabel DiMola, who's father and his five siblings attended the school.
"Whenever I'm here, I get nostalgic," said DiMola. "I'm forever grateful to my teachers and I have fond memories of them. Their memories support me in my blueprint for what I want education to be for the children I'm responsible for."
Each classroom displayed work dedicated to the history of P.S. 216. One class did a project on what the future would be like, declaring robots could never replace human teachers. Another class displayed photos of the school through the years.
Neglia said some parts of the building, including the columns and chandeliers in the auditorium, have been preserved over the 100 years. There are also two murals that date back to the 1940s.
Neglia and DiMola said the school has long attracted the children of immigrant families.
"It's a touchpoint as they assimilate into the neighborhood," DiMola said. "As superintendent, it's heartwarming to know the school still serves that American dream."
Parents were left impressed and seemed proud to be sending their children to the school.
"It's an amazing school," said Yuliya Volovski, a mother to a fifth grader. "The support from the teachers is phenomenal. There's just a pleasant feeling here. My daughter doesn't want to graduate from here."
Jennifer Cuateco, an alumnus, said her son now attends the school.
"I know he's in good hands," she said, noting how school staff have always stayed in contact with parents and are engaged with the students. "I like how they connect with everyone."
