On Dec. 5, the Carle Place Student Organization led by adviser Dr. Jillian Kelly, hosted their second annual Leadership Symposium at Carle Place High School. Fellow Student Organization leaders from over 13 schools, including Great Neck North, Hewlett, South Side, Farmingdale, Plainedge, Sewanhaka, Mill Neck Manor, Malverne, Glen Cove, Bellmore JFK, Lawrence and Commack attended the day filled with collaboration and conversations about strategies to improve school culture and student well-being.
The Carle Place Student Organization first conceived the symposium last year, recognizing that many schools were facing similar challenges independently. They envisioned the potential impact of collaborative efforts, and the inaugural event drew 100 attendees. This year, the symposium expanded significantly, bringing together over 300 students from 13 schools, including the Mill Neck School for the Deaf. Interpreters were present to ensure the event was fully accessible.
The day began with a welcome from Board of Education President Mr. Lawrence F. Zaino Jr, Superintendent of Carle Place Schools Dr. Ted Cannone and Dr. Kelly. Retired FDNY lieutenant officer Mr. Michael O’Connell was the day’s first guest speaker, who spoke about his leadership experiences and the implications for students poised to lead beyond high school. As a former Carle Place resident, Mr. O’Connell shared his special connection to the school and community.
Students from each school worked together to complete various activities centered around teamwork, such as building a Jenga tower, navigating the gym and using rope to lower an item into a bucket — all while blindfolded.
Nassau County Comptroller Ms. Elaine Phillips was the second guest speaker, and she discussed good qualities in a leader, such as courage, responsibility, empathy and integrity. She explained the importance of taking ownership and having one another’s backs even in difficult times. “As a leader, you must always show respect,” she said. “Be creative, foster a collaborative, cooperative and innovative environment” and “always stand up for what is right.” Ms. Philips also spoke about her experiences as a woman in a leadership position, which resonated with the young women in attendance.
Carle Place High School, along with Bellmore JFK High School, Lawrence High School and Commack High School, gave student presentations on topics such as fostering inclusive school cultures, ensuring student voice and representation, balancing academics and extracurriculars, and developing leadership skills beyond the classroom. They also discussed creating effective school spirit initiatives, navigating social media and digital challenges, service and community engagement, course selection and class offerings, and the Long Island Legacy Project.
“What excites me most about this event is witnessing students from schools across the island come together to share ideas and drive positive change,” said Dr. Kelly. “It’s incredible to see them realize their power and potential. It is such an inspiring and impactful day.”
