Connetquot Central School District

For the past five years, Connetquot High School’s Tri-M Music Honor Society has sponsored a box of toys for the Addie’s Army Toy Drive, benefitting children and families staying at the Ronald McDonald House - New York Metro. Addie’s Army was established in 2021 by Connetquot alumni and Connetquot High School choir teacher Nicole White in honor of her daughter, Addison. Nicole and her husband, Ryan, lived at the Ronald McDonald House in the Spring of 2021 while Addison received critical care at Cohen’s Children’s Medical Center. 

This year, the Disabilities Awareness Committee presented Mrs. White with a proposal to sponsor boxes in all 10 buildings districtwide. It was a full-circle moment for me to pick up a box of toys at Sycamore Avenue Elementary School, my former elementary school, said Mrs. White. The mission of Addie's Army is to promote disability awareness and offer direct support for families affected by medical circumstances. With Connetquot's help, we far surpassed our goal.”

Tri-M student officers Austin Baker, Brynn Burke, Tessa Dolinger, Anthony Kauffman and Christopher Roppelt, alongside teachers Mr. Brandon Latargia, Mrs. Siobhan Guido and Mrs. Nicole White delivered over 1,200 toys and a $250 check from the Connetquot Teachers Association. The students and teachers also received a tour of the Ronald McDonald House, which is considered a home away from home, for those forced to live near the hospital for a long period of time. The students received an invaluable experience by being there and contributing to such a worthy cause.