The new STAR program got off to a fantastic start at the Mineola School District. The program was created by District Athletic Director Ralph Amitrano and is designed to provide articulation between high school and elementary school students.

STAR stands for sportsmanship, teamwork, achievement and responsibility. Mr. Amitrano explained how important each trait is and how they relate to being a good student in school, a successful member of a team and a good citizen.

Members of the high school's varsity sports teams are introduced to fifth grade students at Mineola's elementary schools as STARS. When the student-athletes meet the elementary school students, they dress in full uniform and perform warm-up exercises with students and demonstrate skills specific to their sport. Varsity coaches from respective sports teams address the fifth grade students as they coordinate the team's activities.

The aim of the program is to illustrate to the fifth grade students the qualities such as commitment to be a successful student/athlete. The younger students also become better connected to the older students. Younger students may also look up to the student/athletes and develop the positive qualities such as hard work, dedication and camaraderie exhibited by the student/athletes.

Thus far the varsity football team visited the Hampton Street School and the girls varsity soccer team has visited the Cross Street School. All elementary schools will be involved in the program as the year progresses.