The event welcomed students to a new school year and celebrated community members who have had a positive impact on our children and our community.

This year, the district honored the Kaplan Family for their continued dedication to our community youth through the Newburgh Armory Unity Center & Kaplan Family Foundation. Mr. Bill Kaplan accepted the award on behalf of the Kaplan family. Maddalena Casabianca Reade for promoting healthy living and a passion for raising awareness for cancer research and organ donation through her local foundation, Lap4Life. Town of New Windsor Councilwoman, Patricia Y. Mullarkey, for her dedication to NECSD students receiving the best education and facilities possible. Kevin White, Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Newburgh for his vision and commitment to expanding opportunities for children and Joe Alvarez, leader of We Are Newburgh Love/Peace/Unity for his dedication and commitment to promoting Peace, Love, and Unity in our community. Kim Turner, founder of the Newburgh Performing Arts Academy accepted the award on behalf of Kevin White. Each honoree was recognized with a brief description of their impact on our community. Each celebrant then stepped up to ring the bell, followed by Board of Education member in attendance. Edwin Gregorio, a scholar at South Middle School was the final participant to ring the bell.