Garden City Public Schools

Garden City’s Stewart School Student Proposes Idea to Support Pet Therapy at Cohen Children’s Medical Center

A heartfelt idea from a Garden City third grader is making a meaningful difference for young patients at Cohen Children’s Medical Center — and it all started with a pretzel.

Jojo Nadolny, a student in Miss Dwyer and Miss Oppedisano’s class at Stewart School, recently submitted a service-learning proposal for the school’s popular “Pretzels with a Purpose” initiative. The program allows students to purchase hot pretzels from the Philly Pretzel Factory during snack time, with proceeds supporting charitable causes. This time, Jojo had a special request: he wanted the funds to benefit the hospital’s pet therapy program — specifically, its beloved therapy dog, Dutton.

Dutton, a two-year-old golden retriever and yellow Labrador mix, brings comfort and emotional support to young patients at Cohen. Jojo’s thoughtful proposal suggested that the money raised through pretzel sales be used to purchase plush stuffed animals modeled after the gentle pup. These cuddly companions would then be donated to the hospital and gifted to Dutton’s “friends” — the children receiving care.

But Jojo didn’t stop there; each stuffed animal also included a handwritten note from one of Jojo’s classmates, offering words of encouragement and cheer to the children who receive them. Students from Miss Dwyer and Miss Oppedisano’s classes worked hard to craft these heartfelt messages.

“Jojo’s idea captures the true spirit of service learning,” said Stewart School service-learning coordinator Brenda McCarthy. “His empathy, creativity and desire to bring comfort to others show what a big difference one small voice can make.”

Stewart School is proud to support Dutton and the incredible pet therapy work being done at Cohen Children’s Medical Center. Through Jojo’s leadership and his classmates’ kindness, these Garden City students are proving that even the smallest acts of kindness and generosity can bring comfort and joy to those who need it most.

Garden City Board of Education Holds Reorganization Meeting

In preparation for the 2025-2026 school year, the Garden City Board of Education held its annual reorganization meeting on July 1.

During the meeting, newly elected trustees Debra Cupani and Erin Debrich were officially sworn into office along with Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha and District Clerk Dana DiCapua. The board of education re-elected Joseph Sileo as president and elected Kristen Pappas as vice president for the 2025-2026 school year.

The district is excited to begin a new year of learning, growth and continued success.

Garden City Public Schools Appoints New Coordinator for Music and Arts

At its business meeting on July 1, the Garden City Public Schools Board of Education proudly appointed Akira Byng-Regan as the district’s new coordinator of music and arts, effective July 1, 2025.

Ms. Byng-Regan brings more than 15 years of experience in arts education and instructional leadership to the Garden City School District. Most recently, Ms. Byng-Regan served in the Roosevelt School District as lead music teacher and choral director at Roosevelt Middle and High School, as well as director of Roosevelt Performing Arts. In these roles, she has overseen all choral ensembles for grades 7–12, managed high school productions, directed the districtwide musical and led curriculum projects and initiatives.

Ms. Byng-Regan has also played a central role in expanding arts programs, coordinating departmentwide professional development and managing planning, staffing, budgeting and logistics for district performances.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Byng-Regan to our school community and look forward to the expertise, creativity and vision she will bring to our music and arts programs,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha. “Her leadership will enrich opportunities for students and help continue to elevate the district’s commitment to the arts.”

The Garden City Public Schools community is excited to welcome Ms. Byng-Regan into her new role and is confident that her goals will uphold and further the district’s success.