Over 300 faculty members, administrators, family and friends of the district were recently welcomed to Villa Lombardi’s in Holbrook to attend the Connetquot Foundation for the Advancement of Children’s annual Community Honors Gala. 

Since 2005, the foundation has helped students in need, providing free tutoring, supporting community events, and providing over $175,000 in school, community and teacher financial grants. The grants help to purchase equipment and supplies, support special student assemblies and finance training that directly benefits the students of the Connetquot community.

In addition to being a fundraiser to support educational initiatives for district students, the Gala provides the opportunity to celebrate individuals who have had a lasting, positive impact on the district. Suffolk County Legislator William J. Lindsay III was on hand to present the awards in his father’s name to Susan P. White, principal of John Pearl Elementary School; Sandra Rubin, principal of Idle Hour Elementary School; and Scott Maskin, co-founder, president and chief executive officer of SUNation Solar Systems. William J. Lindsay II, who passed in 2013, was presiding officer of the Suffolk County Legislature and was a founding member of the Connetquot Foundation for the Advancement of Children. Mr. Lindsay’s son is proud to continue the tradition of honoring individuals who have dedicated their energy to improving the lives of Connetquot’s children. 

Sandra Rubin started her career in the Connetquot Central School District in 1972. She began as an elementary school teacher and then taught the Gifted and Talented program (now known as C-Quest) for 13 years. Mrs. Rubin then served in an administrative position at Cherokee Street Elementary School and then at Edith L. Slocum Elementary School. After a brief retirement, she returned as interim assistant superintendent and then moved on to her current position as principal of Idle Hour Elementary School.

Susan P. White began her administrative career as an assistant principal at Cherokee Street Elementary School before being appointed as principal of John Pearl Elementary School, a role she has held for the past 28 years. 

Scott Maskin co-founded Bohemia-based SUNation Solar Systems in 2003 and currently serves as president and CEO. Mr. Maskin is also a dedicated supporter of Connetquot’s students and programs, as his children are Connetquot High School graduates.

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