This article was originally published in Kaleidoscope‘s Spring 2025 print edition. It is being published as a separate online article now for easy access.
On May 13, the field behind Ward Melville High School came alive with school spirit as the Three Village Central School District hosted its fourth annual Day to Shine. This special event brought together students receiving special education services from across the district for a full day of athletic fun and creativity. Although the weather was gloomy throughout the day, students were able to complete almost all of the activities before it started raining.
Organized in partnership with district staff, Ward Melville student volunteers, the Special Education Department and the Health & Physical Education department, Day to Shine was designed to be more than just a fun field day. It is an event centered on inclusivity, empowerment, and celebration of student achievement.
“We wanted to create a day that truly celebrates every student’s abilities,” said Ms. Kilkenny, the Coordinating Chairperson for Elementary Health & Physical Education. “Our goal was to foster community and offer a joyful, meaningful experience that students could share with their teachers and families.”
Day to Shine was originally established in 2018 through the collaborative efforts of the Special Education and Health & Physical Education departments. Its creation aimed to provide an inclusive and supportive environment for students to participate in track races, field events, games and crafts. While the event was paused in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was reinstated in 2022 due to the efforts of Ms. Marino, Mrs. McCaffrey, Ms. Driscoll and Ms. Kilkenny. Since then, Ms. Kiersh has joined the planning team, helping to grow the event into a cherished annual tradition.
The event opened with a heartwarming entrance as students ran through a tunnel formed by enthusiastic high school volunteers holding pom-poms and cheering. Students proudly carried banners representing their schools, setting a festive tone for the rest of the day. “It was so fun to see how happy the kids were at the activities,” reflected Jordana Latham, a volunteer. “I especially enjoyed cheering the kids on when they passed the finish line after running the 100m.”
The athletic portion of the event featured various track and field activities, including relay races and dashes. “I liked the races the best this year,” said Malachi Kwateng, a sophomore participant. “It was fun to race other kids because I enjoy competition.”
“Day to Shine has continued to evolve each year as we reflect on the event and seek new ways to enhance the experience for our students,” explained Ms. Kilkenny. “We consistently strive to introduce new and engaging activities to make the day more enjoyable and inclusive.”
Recently, t-shirts have been generously donated by Ms. Weisman and Ms. DiLorenzo from their business Welo Ink Designs. In addition, music provided by the Bluegrass Club and Tri-M Music Honor Society has contributed to the encouraging and joyful atmosphere.
This year’s event also featured a brand new addition: pinewood derby races. The derby cars, built by students in their technology classes and coordinated by Mr. Flaiz, were a major hit with both students and their families. Additional festivities included arts and crafts stations, lunch and ice pops generously provided with support from the Special Education Department and Special Education Parent Teacher Association (SEPTA), building on to the overall excitement and celebratory spirit of the day.
