Community residents gathered at the basketball courts at the Roosevelt School on May 27 to honor Oyster Bay-East Norwich School District former teacher and Coach Tom Robinson, who passed away recently. "It is fitting to dedicate these courts to Tom Robinson because so many children and adults enjoyed this space, which Tom took care of as if it were his own," said Superintendent of Schools George J. Chesterton.

In presenting a Proclamation to the Robinson family, Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor John Venditto said that, "What makes this town so special is the people who live here, who day in and day out give of themselves to make this a better place."

"Although some look to movies, sports and television for role models, we can look right here at Tom Robinson, who made many lives better," Mr. Venditto added.

Former Board of Education trustee Grace Searby, who was asked by the Robinson family to say a few words, reflected, "Knowing TR (that's what we called him) since the early 1980s, I can attest to what an unselfishly giving person he was." Mrs. Searby stressed his dedication and caring for all students, including her daughter, Lauren, whom he trained in track resulting in her getting a four year college scholarship.

"He was always here, coaching, chatting, weeding, and always smiling," she noted. "These are your courts, Tom Robinson!"

Four students from Oyster Bay High School also expressed their sentiments by repeating the tributes they presented at their Spring Concert, which dedicated the1996 Olympic theme, Reach by Gloria Estafan, to their former teacher and coach. Ashley Haarstick, Catherine Soler, Kayvon Mesbah and Brittany Becker cited Mr. Robinson's positive influence on all students, love of life and love of children as reasons why he will never be forgotten. "He was not just a teacher but also an inspiration and a role model," said Ashley.

A scholarship was initiated in the name of Tom Robinson. During the graduation of the OBHS Class of 2003, Judy Silver presented the first scholarship given by her parents Dr. and Mrs. Silver in Mr. Robinson's name. The $5,000 scholarship was presented to Mark Mitchell who played on three athletic teams: golf, tennis and basketball and will attend the University of Pennsylvania.