Making a difference at East

For his work with High School East leadership students, Social Studies teacher Joseph Toth has been named one of just 15 educators nationwide to receive the 2026 Lead4Change Fellowship.

“I was very surprised,” said Toth. “To be one of only 15 people selected nationwide is a great honor. I knew we had a strong chance, but this recognition means a lot.”

High School East Leadership students traditionally organize meaningful schoolwide initiatives, including the annual 9/11 remembrance ceremony, Pep Rally, Spooky Hallways, a blood drive, and participation in the No Place for Hate anti-bullying pledge.

This year, Mr. Toth expanded the program’s impact even further by organizing eight service-learning projects throughout the spring. One standout initiative involved partnering with the Interact Club to grow hydroponic gardens, providing fresh, healthy food donations to the Smithtown Emergency Food Pantry.

“We wanted to do more service-learning projects for our East leadership students,” Toth explained. “Not only are we teaching leadership in the classroom, but we’re also showing students that their voices can be heard beyond it.”

As a Lead4Change Fellow, Mr. Toth will receive a $500 grant to enhance his classroom for the upcoming school year, along with invitations to professional conference calls and national events.

Congratulations, Mr. Toth, on this outstanding achievement!