Copyright Staten Island Advance
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Students, staff, and local leaders gathered at PS 55, The Henry M. Boehm School, in Eltingville on Tuesday to celebrate the unveiling of the school’s new “buddy bench,” a student-led initiative aimed at fostering kindness and inclusion on the playground. The idea for the buddy bench came from former PS 55 student Gemma Mastroguilio who, during a time when she often felt lonely, wanted to create something that could help both herself and other students feel more included. “It’s really unexpected, but it’s really nice to see it happen,” Mastroguilio said after seeing her idea come to life at the event. While the project began with Mastroguilio’s idea, it was ultimately brought to life through the efforts of the current student council, with support from previous councils who helped design, plan, and advocate for it. The bench now serves as a space where students can sit, take a break, and signal that they’re looking for someone to talk to or play with — encouraging goodwill, connection, and empathy on the playground. “This couldn’t have happened without you guys and the students who came before you,” said Assistant Principal Dawn Roman during the ceremony. “As you can see, all it takes is one voice to make a difference.” Councilmember Frank Morano, a Republican who represents the South Shore, highlighted the importance of the buddy bench initiative. “The one thing we’re seeing in society these days -- among children and among adults -- is a real problem with loneliness, and I think that you guys have taken such an important step in combating that today,” he said. Morano also shared a personal note, adding that his son will begin kindergarten at PS 55 next year. He expressed his excitement for his son to learn, grow, and be a part of the positive, inclusive culture the students are building. Inspired by their students, PS 55 staff have expanded opportunities for students to develop social, emotional, and general life skills through three school clubs -- the SHINE club, Helping Hands club, and the Merit club. These clubs focus on building character, leadership, and empathy, helping students grow not only academically but personally. The SHINE club encourages students to support, help, inspire, navigate, and exude excellence. The Helping Hands club promotes community service, selflessness, and compassion. The Merit club teaches students competencies, such as self-awareness, self-management, relationship skills, social awareness, and personal responsibility. “Our idea is simple -- we believe in putting service above ourselves,” Angela Saccaro, a physical education teacher, said speaking about the clubs. “What better way to make that happen is by speaking to the students, meeting with them, teaching them really great leadership skills that they can put in their back pocket and carry on with them for the rest of their lives.” In addition to the clubs, the PS 55 student council proposed creating a sensory room — a safe space where students can decompress, unwind and play. The room was built entirely by PS 55 staff, who completed it themselves and raised their own funds to purchase sensory items and toys for students. “Our PS 55 shining stars, you impress me each day,” Principal Francesca McAuliffe said. “You break the mold, and you come up with ideas that support and make the future a better place for all of us. Never lose that, continue to do that, and always shine.” The event brought together members of the Parent-Teacher Association, faculty, and students.
