Waverly Elementary School in the Sachem Central School District held a ceremony on Sept. 27 in memory of the building’s first principal, Mr. Robert Giambattista. The school community gathered alongside retired Waverly staff members, current district administrators and Mr. Giambattista’s family to dedicate an oak tree in his honor. The tree will be planted on the front side of Waverly Elementary School, along Waverly Avenue.

“The planting will happen later today, and the tree will serve as a symbol of Mr. Giambattista’s long-lasting legacy for Waverly students past, present and future,” Principal Kevin Tougher said during the ceremony.

Guest speakers were invited to say a few words about Mr. Giambattista’s legacy, including former Waverly Principal Sue Greiner and Mr. Giambattista’s son, Scott.

“As much as my dad enjoyed the outdoors and the trees around him, next to my mother and my family, Waverly Avenue School was the center of his life,” Scott Giambattista said. “He woke up every school morning happy to be sharing his day with the wonderful students and staff who were the heart of the school and filled it with joy, happiness, productivity, a passion for education, and respect and deep affection for each other.”

The ceremony concluded with a schoolwide performance of the Waverly School Song, led by music teacher Ms. Holmes.

Click here to view the Tree Planting Honors Former Waverly Principal 24-25 slideshow.

Date Added: 10/1/2024