The South Huntington Union Free School District Board of Education held a significant meeting on May 20, 2025, at Walt Whitman High School, primarily focused on honoring outstanding students with the prestigious Michael S. Curtin Award. The evening began with the Pledge of Allegiance, setting a respectful tone for the ceremony.

One of the highlights of the meeting was the recognition of Dr. Scott Mueller, the assistant principal at Walt Whitman High School, who received the Assistant Principal of the Year award from the School Administrators Association of New York. This accolade celebrates Dr. Mueller's 19 years of dedicated service to the school community, where he has been a mentor and a source of support for students, faculty, and families. His leadership has fostered a culture of trust and respect, making a significant impact on the school environment.

The ceremony also featured the presentation of the Michael Curtin Award, which honors students who exemplify exceptional character and service to their community. Principal John Murphy emphasized the importance of these values, noting that the award recognizes students not only for their academic achievements but also for their commitment to helping others. The award is named after Sergeant Michael Curtin, a former NYPD officer and Marine who embodied selflessness and bravery, particularly during the events of September 11.

As part of the ceremony, students were celebrated for their contributions to the school and community, with staff members sharing testimonials about their positive impact. The event concluded with a student address by Sameera Chaudhary, who highlighted the selflessness of her peers and the honor of receiving the award in memory of Sergeant Curtin.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of community, leadership, and the values that the South Huntington School District aims to instill in its students. The recognition of both Dr. Mueller and the award recipients serves as a reminder of the positive influence that dedicated individuals can have on their communities.