An East Williston student, Dean Gregory, was this year’s recipient of the George Farber Outstanding Student Award. Gregory, who is graduating from the Rosemary Kennedy School, received the honor at a ceremony at the Nassau BOCES Long Island High School for the Arts in Syosset a few weeks ago.
“I’m so happy about the award,” said Gregory. “I’m very proud of myself.”
The Kennedy school said Gregory won the award on account of his “talent, commitment, honesty, diligence, compassion and high moral standards.”
John Picarello, the principal of Rosemary Kennedy School at Nassau BOCES, described as “a school designed for students with moderate to severe developmental disabilities,” called Gregory a kind and generous student.
“He has made tremendous growth at the Rosemary Kennedy School,” said Picarello. “He is a good friend to not only the students, but also to the staff, and he will be greatly missed.”
Meryl Ortiz, one of Gregory’s teachers, said Gregory is a unique student.
“He has a big personality and is always greeting people,” she said. “It’s like having the mayor as a student in my class.”
Gregory has developed a deep interest in music and dance, which he has explored through a Rosemary Kennedy School partnership with the Long Island High School for the Arts. He has performed in many school events, including a Martin Luther King Jr. Day production and the George Farber Awards.
“I love learning different dances, and I like dancing with my partner,” he said.
One of Gregory’s teachers, Meryl Ortiz, recalled his impromptu dance performance earlier this year at the end of the school talent show, which exemplifies his passion for music and dance.
“He got all of the kids clapping and singing,” Ortiz said. “It was very entertaining.”
Despite the challenges that made him a candidate for the Rosemary Kennedy School, Gregory said that he motivates himself to keep a positive mindset and continues to work hard with the goal of finding a job after graduation.
“I try very hard to do my best,” said Gregory.
After graduating from the Rosemary Kennedy School, Gregory will be attending the Family Residences and Essential Enterprises program in Old Westbury, where he will continue to focus on his exploration of the arts.
