Number of Participants: 25
Hours Donated: 25
Value of Time Served: $21,744
Event Type: Children & Youth
Activity: Club
School: Sanford H Calhoun High School
Date: April 13, 2026
Location:
Calhoun High School
State Street, Merrick
NY
About:
For the second year, Calhoun Connections—including Ms. Sieber’s COORE class, Ms. Romito’s and Mr. Ortiz’s PREP English classes—has partnered with the Mepham Leadership team to create a powerful peer mentoring experience for students in Special Education.
This ongoing collaboration continues to foster connection, inclusion, and shared experiences between students from both schools.
In February, Calhoun students visited Mepham High School for a day filled with fun and friendship. The visit featured Valentine ’s-themed activities that encouraged interaction and bonding, followed by a student-led tour of the building. A standout moment of the day was the visit to Mepham’s broadcasting room—an exciting highlight that left a lasting impression on the visiting students.
The partnership will continue this spring as Calhoun prepares to host Mepham’s leadership students on April 15. Plans are underway for a day of engaging activities, culminating in a highly anticipated musical experience led by music teacher Mr. Mitchell. Building on last year’s success, students can look forward to another joyful sing-and-dance celebration that brings everyone together.
Calhoun Connections has already created a number of impactful experiences this year, including Challenger Basketball, the Challenger Sports Banner unveiling, a World Down Syndrome Day celebration, and the Spring Market—each event reinforcing the program’s commitment to inclusion and community.
Looking ahead, even more meaningful opportunities are on the horizon. In addition to Mepham’s upcoming visit, Calhoun will celebrate Neurodiversity Month and host Calhoun Softball’s Autism and Neurodiversity Acceptance Game—continuing to raise awareness and create spaces where every student feels seen, valued, and included.
Through these partnerships and events, Calhoun Connections is not just building programs—it’s building relationships, understanding, and a stronger, more inclusive school community.
