Students from Nassau BOCES Rosemary Kennedy School (RKS) showcased their creativity and talent, taking home twenty-four awards at the annual Long Island Fair, held at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage recently.

Students were recognized for their outstanding efforts, receiving awards that celebrate both their hard work and their imagination at the Long Island Fair, one of the region’s most historic and celebrated events. It highlights the skills and artistry of participants of all ages through competitions in areas such as arts, crafts, horticulture, baking and more.

“We have strong arts and horticulture programs at RKS. These awards are a testament to our students’ incredible creativity, perseverance and dedication,” said Principal Jolie Kowal. “We are so proud to see them share their talents with the larger Long Island community and to have their work recognized in such a meaningful way. I want to thank their teachers Matthew McElwee, Lori Dieguez and Christopher King, as well as our partners at Smile Farms, who have helped us develop the horticulture program to what it is today.”

Teachers Matthew McElwee, Lori Dieguez and Christopher King work tirelessly with the students to help keep the gardens beautiful and fruitful and help set their imaginations free to create the artwork displayed.

The Nassau BOCES RKS, located in Wantagh, serves students with special needs, providing them with opportunities to learn, grow and succeed through personalized programs that emphasize academic, social and vocational skills. Participation in events like the Long Island Fair helps students build confidence, highlight their abilities and experience the joy of community recognition.

The winners are listed below:

Art Competition

First place

Yuki Hayashida, Port Washington UFSD 
Melanie Sobrevilla, Sewanhaka CHSD  
Mia Bello, Farmingdale UFSD
Leandro Crichlow, Valley Stream CHSD 

Second Place

Leandro Crichlow, Valley Stream CHSD 

Third place

Myles Lawrence, Westbury UFSD
Megan Vassallo, Hicksville UFSD

Honorable mention

Myles Lawrence. Westbury UFSD
Megan Vassallo, Hicksville UFSD

Horticulture Competition

First place

Hanging flower
Vegetable Display
Herb Display

• Rosemary
• Thyme

Second place

Herb Display

• Oregano 

Pickled Hot Peppers
Sunflower 
Hanging foliage  

Third Place

Cherry Yellow Tomatoes
Eggplant
Petite Arrangement
Potatoes

Honorable mention

Brownies