SSHS Alum Speaks at United Nations on World Down Syndrome Day

Students throughout the Rockville Centre School District celebrated World Down Syndrome Day on March 2, but it was a South Side alum with Down Syndrome who represented the district and spoke at the "Building Our Future" Conference at the United Nations on March 21.

graduate and ACDS Group Home Resident Michael Brennan spoke out about changing society attitudes about Down Syndrome.

"Michael Brennan was articulate, poised, and made an impact on all those attending World Down Syndrome Day at the United Nations," said South Side high school teacher Joyce Avellino. "He certainly represented the CORE I class at South Side High School and his hometown of Rockville Centre with pride. It was very exciting for us to watch one of our graduates posing for pictures with adoring fans!"

Other special events that took place in the district during World Down Syndrome Day included South Side Middle School’s campaign, “SPREAD THE WORD TO END THE WORD,” — an effort to have all students pledge not to use the “R” word. At Covert, teachers held an assembly that taught students what Down Syndrome is and that such individuals can do extraordinary things. In the high school, students from the Core class taped a short presentation for the Morning News show that aired on March 21.

This year marked the 7th anniversary of World Down Syndrome Day but was the first time it was officially observed by the United Nations. March 21 was chosen as the date for WDSD to represent the extra chromosome that those with Down Syndrome have.