NYSSBA Champion of Change Award Presented to Baldwin UFSD

The New York State School Boards Association (NYSSBA) recognized Baldwin Union Free School District (UFSD) as a “Champion of Change” for the Hello Neighbor Project. The award celebrates programs that optimize resources to address issues of equity, demonstrate strong student academic performance and introduce unique learning environments that are cutting-edge and future-oriented.   

Inspired by the Hello Neighbor Project created by Oregon photojournalist and artist Julie Keefe, Baldwin UFSD brought the same concept to Long Island, but with students producing the work. Baldwin High School AP Photography students captured the faces of Brookside Elementary School second graders while posing in the playground. The photos were then blown up into 3 ft x 2 ft posters, featuring each Brookside student’s hopes and dreams printed across the top. The posters were then hung along the fence surrounding the high school tennis courts, with the goal of expanding the initiative to the district’s other four elementary schools and wider community. The project aims to encourage the teaching philosophy of “students as producers”, as well as to spread kindness and inclusivity. The beautiful portraits even caught the attention of NBC and PIX-11. 

“Every once in a while, it is nice to get a pat on the back, especially when the recognition is unexpected. NYSSBA initiated a program, which we call the Champions of Change, in order to do just that,” wrote Robert S. Schneider, CPA, CAE, NYSSBA’s Executive Director in a letter to the district. “It has come to our attention that there is a creative program in your school district that deserves recognition — Hello Neighbor Project — and we would like to pay tribute to those who make it possible. We understand there are many incredibly meritorious programs and projects throughout the state, and NYSSBA is celebrating yours!” 

NYSSBA Area Director, Robert Schoen, presented the “Champion of Change” banner to board president, Susan Cools, who accepted on behalf of Baldwin UFSD during the September board meeting. 

“When I learned about the Hello Neighbor project in Oregon, I knew I had to bring some form of it to Baldwin, but with the hearts and minds of our amazing students behind it,” said Dr. Shari L. Camhi, superintendent of schools. “I am so proud to see this project come to life and for it to be recognized as a Champion of Change by NSSBA. I would like to thank the high school and Brookside students, as well as our administrator who oversaw this effort, Nomi Rosen, for helping to make this possible. I look forward to seeing the project grow year after year with our other elementary schools included. If there was ever a community that could make this world a kinder place, it is Baldwin!” 

A video of the project can be found at: www.vimeo.com/baldwinschools/helloneighbor