Visiting Our Neighbors! Alfano ESY Spends Day at Central Islip Civic Council

The Alfano Extended School Year students did not have to go far for an exciting field trip.

The students, led by program administrator and principal Rebecca Garcia, spent the day at the Central Islip Civic Council on Wheeler Road.

Students were divided into five groups and visited different stations.

To begin the day, the program kindly donated hand-made rocks for the Council's rock garden and two custom-made banners, one of which was titled, "We All Bee-long," featuring an image of a bee draped across the front.

They were taught what blacksmithing is and were shown how to use tools, like wood and fire, to make objects such as rakes, spears, and handmade nails.

The one-room schoolhouse dates back to the 1800s, where students entered to see the room itself, followed by an arts and crafts activity taught by Board of Education Vice President Debra Cavanagh.

The organic garden was on display with various plants, and the students learned about soil, water, and sunlight.

Next, the students experienced hand-washing clothes and rags and learned how people would hang their clothes with clothespins to dry.

To conclude the activity, each student got a turn using a rug beater to help clean a rug, demonstrated by Mrs. Isabelle Mitchell, wife of Board of Education Trustee Mr. Glenn C. Mitchell.

Photo gallery here