Honoring Our Local Heroes

The Smithtown Central School District Board of Education recognized several individuals Tuesday night whose quick thinking, teamwork and lifesaving actions helped save a life during a JV girls soccer game last month at Smithtown High School East.

When an official collapsed on the soccer field on September 16, Smithtown parent and volunteer EMT Jennifer Carney rushed to provide chest compressions, joined by Head Coach Amanda Valente, chaperone Kenneth Eng and Athletic Trainer Kelsey McCulley, who retrieved the school’s automated external defibrillator (AED). In conjunction with several members of the East Islip community, they assessed the situation and delivered a lifesaving shock when the device indicated it was needed.

Last night, the Board honored these heroes with certificates of recognition and a well-deserved ovation in appreciation of their extraordinary actions.

Their courage, quick response and willingness to help remind us of the power of preparation, compassion and community.

The SCSD is incredibly proud to recognize these individuals for making a difference when every second mattered.

From Left: Superintendent Dr. Mark Secaur, Kenneth Eng, Kelsey McCulley, Amanda Valente, Jennifer Carney, Board of Education President Matt Gribbin and Board of Education Vice President Brandon Solomon