Uniondale, NY - June 3, 2016 - Uniondale School District recently welcomed world-famous NBA player Tobias Harris, of the Detroit Pistons, to Uniondale High School. Harris visited the school as part of its recognition as a 2016 New York State School of Character and 2016 National School of Character. He spoke with students about the role character and integrity plays in helping him achieve success in his career, including the value of good sportsmanship and teamwork.
“As part of Uniondale High School’s recent recognition as a 2016 National School of Character, the District invited Tobias Harris to inspire students to continue to create the culture of excellence which led to this recognition,” said Uniondale School District Superintendent Dr. William K. Lloyd.
“By connecting students with positive role models, the District enables every student to learn from leaders in a variety of professions so one day they may also pay their success forward.”
In order to qualify as a School of Character, Uniondale High School received recognition for having low bullying and dropout rates and high test scores, grades, teacher retention, parent satisfaction, student engagement, attendance and graduation rates. The School of Character designation is given by a team of national and state evaluators to schools which implement The 11 Principles of Effective Character Education. Uniondale High School and Turtle Hook Middle School were two of only seven schools in New York State and 68 schools nationally to receive this recognition.
“By fostering an environment in which students contribute positively to their environments, Uniondale High School can serve as a model for other schools throughout the nation,” said Uniondale High School Principal Dr. Florence Simmons. “In order to achieve this recognition, all staff, students and parents collaborated to create a culture which enhanced academic, social and emotional development. Harris’ inspirational story embodies the important lessons about character education we’ve incorporated into our curriculum, and which our students will remember throughout their lives.”
For more information about the Uniondale School District, visit the District’s website.