Deer Park School District administrators, Board of Education members, teachers and students attended the Eid Holiday Coalition’s inaugural Eid Brunch to Connect on Nov. 2, including Board President Donna Marie Elliott, Board trustee Jerry Jean-Pierre, John F. Kennedy Intermediate School Associate Principal Shaun McLeod, May Moore Primary School Associate Principal Kimberly Essig, teacher Nicole Bjarnason and Deer Park High School Muslim Student Association President Alishba Syed. The two-hour event was comprised of a brunch, welcome address, presentations on “Inclusion Across Long Island” and “How to Support Muslim Students in the Classroom,” as well as time for networking with other districts. Students also spoke about their experiences of being Muslim students in schools on Long Island that support their cultures, beliefs and holidays and how it has positively impacted them.  

“The event was extremely well attended and informational in regards to receiving knowledge about current events, language in the classroom and communicating with Muslim families,” Essig said.

“It has been an incredible privilege to serve as the adviser of the Muslim Student Association over the past two years,” Bjarnason said. “I am honored to support such inspiring students in their efforts to create a welcoming space where connections flourish and where understanding and acceptance are promoted. I am continually moved by their dedication to building a community that celebrates diversity and fosters mutual respect. Alishba, our school’s MSA president and co-founder, and I are currently planning an upcoming event featuring celebration, food and henna to deepen the bonds of respect and joy within our school community. Being part of their journey has been a deeply meaningful experience, and I look forward to the positive impact they will continue to make.”

Date Added: 11/8/2024