
NYS Judge Gina Lopez-Summa swears in South Grove ES student council members. Photos courtesy of the Syosset School District
Forty-five newly elected student council members representing grades kindergarten through five at South Grove Elementary School were recently sworn in by a New York State judge who provided a firsthand lesson on the United States system of government.
In recognition of Constitution Day, the entire South Grove student body was treated to a special visit from the Hon. Gina Lopez-Summa, who administered the oath to the new council members, discussed how the three branches of government function, and stressed the importance of governance and leadership.

South Grove Elementary School’s newly inducted student council members, representing grades K-5, flanked by NYS Judge Gina Lopez-Summa and Principal Theresa Scrocco on the left and advisers Christina Mancuso and Cathy Bozza on the right.
Student Council President Francesca Napoleone recited the Preamble to the Constitution, which begins, “We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union…”
Principal Theresa Scrocco challenged all of her students to learn the Preamble as well. Student council advisers Cathy Bozza and Christina Mancuso also shared information about upcoming council activities.

South Grove Elementary School’s newly inducted student council officers, with NYS Judge Gina Lopez-Summa and Principal Theresa Scrocco on the left and advisers Christina Mancuso and Cathy Bozza on the right.
Created in 2004, Constitution Day recognizes the adoption of the U.S. Constitution and those who have become U.S. citizens. It is observed on Sept. 17, the day in 1787 on which delegates to the Constitutional Convention signed the document in Philadelphia.