Number of Participants: 22
Hours Donated: 30
Value of Time Served: $22,961
Event Type: Environment
Activity: Schools
Date: May 18, 2026
Location:
Rocky Point
NY, USA
About:
Students in Mrs. Alexa Profitt’s first grade class at Frank J. Carasiti Elementary
School combined science, reading and life skills in preparation for Rocky Point Day by
selling plants they have grown themselves as part of a unique classroom project in a
student-centered learning experience.
During the course of a month, students planted and cared for their plants directly in
the classroom, watering them daily while learning about the lifecycle of plants, the parts of
a plant and what plants need to survive. Students also explored fun plant facts, including
how plants can respond to attention, music and positive interaction.
The students also focused on developing important life skills, including labeling
products, communicating with customers and practicing how to sell their plants. Parents
and friends visited the classroom to help students rehearse their selling skills and build
confidence ahead of the event. Students even received a visit from Rocky Point
Superintendent Dr. O’Brien who read the story of “Too Many Carrots” to the students and
saw how the students were caring for their plants.
All proceeds from the class’s Rocky Point Day booth will support a meaningful cause.
Funds raised will benefit a yearly book drive organized by Lisa Costa, a former Frank J.
Carasiti Elementary School permanent substitute and leave replacement, as well as a
longtime Rocky Point community member. The book drive honors the memory of her
daughter, Stephanie-Lynn, a former FJC student who tragically lost her battle with
childhood cancer. Each year, the Costa family donates brand-new books to children
hospitalized while battling cancer, helping bring comfort and joy to young patients and
their families.
Community members are encouraged to stop by Rocky Point Day on Saturday, May
16, to support the students and purchase one of the plants they worked so hard to grow.
Photo captions:
1) Rocky Point first graders William Van Horne and Molly Mullady watered their
plants.
2) Rocky Point first grader William Van Horne with the plants.
3) Superintendent Dr. Scott O’Brien read to Mrs. Profitt’s class.
Photos courtesy of Rocky Point UFSD
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