Representatives from Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice’s office visited Syosset High School on March 26 to present a powerful program to 11th-graders about the resounding effects of bad decisions – “Choices and Consequences.” Assistant District Attorney Chris Casa, assisted by program coordinator Liz Augner, explained several real life stories of local people who made destructive decisions and the detrimental after-effects of those decisions. Casa covered driving while intoxicated, texting while driving and reckless driving, intertwining personal stories to give students a better understanding of the severity and possible outcomes caused by bad decisions. Additionally, a current defendant spoke to students about his specific situation and the effects it has caused.
The presentation is part of an ongoing initiative at the school to encourage students to make good decisions in every facet of their lives. Throughout the year, the school holds various programs, including senior meetings, parent awareness workshops, a wellness program for ninth- and 10th-graders, a texting and driving program, a health fair, a peer leadership program, and sponsorship of an anti-bullying group, in addition to various speakers and presentations. Additionally, the school recognizes positive behavior with the districtwide PRIDE program, which stands for patience, respect, integrity, dignity and empathy, and seeks to promote and encourage positive behaviors both in and out of school.
