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HS Dedicates Courtyard Bridge to 2016 Alumna Erika Macrelli

Islip HS dedicates courtyard bridge to 2016 alumna Erika Macrelli thumbnail187366
Islip HS dedicates courtyard bridge to 2016 alumna Erika Macrelli thumbnail187367

The high school recently honored Class of 2016 alumna Erika Macrelli, a member of the school’s ecology-oriented Keep Islip Clean club, by dedicating a new bridge in the school courtyard to her memory. The June 7 ceremony featured a ribbon-cutting by Macrelli’s family and the release of more than a thousand ladybugs into the courtyard’s Insect Hotel.

“Within a day or two of learning about Erika’s passing last December, teachers, community members and 2016 alumni were already asking what could be done to recognize a student who brought a luminous spirit and beautiful smile with her whenever she walked into the high school,” said science teacher and KIC club adviser Wayne Mennecke. “The new bridge design was chosen with input from the Macrelli family for its sunrise pattern, which expresses hope, optimism and anticipation. It was assembled by KIC students and placed above the courtyard pond so that future classes of Islip students can continue to appreciate this spot the way Erika did as a member of KIC. The plaque affixed to the bridge is inscribed with Erika’s name and the phrase ‘Forever Loved,’ a perfect description for how Islip feels about Erika today and always. Islip always finds a way to work together as a community in support of a family in need. That level of kindness and generosity will extend into the next school year with future beautification projects in Erika’s name and by designating National Cancer Awareness Day on Nov. 7 as Erika Macrelli Day at Islip High School.”

“I did not have the pleasure of knowing Erika, but I can tell you that her spirit, her wonderful nature, is something that is a part of Islip,” said Principal Jon LaRochester. “We are fortunate that there are many people here that she was able to interact with. This is an exciting day because it is the first of what we hope to be many steps to continue to expand upon her dreams and create an environment that she would be proud of.”