Freeport Public Schools

Welcome to Leo F. Giblyn

A Passport to Learning

Every Child, Every Day, In Any Way!

450 S. Ocean Ave.
Freeport, NY 11520
Tel: 516-867-5260
(Grades K to 4)
9:15 AM - 3:45 PM

 

  

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Giblyn Elementary embraces cultural pride at annual International Day Celebration 

 

Freeport Public Schools’ Leo F. Giblyn Elementary School came alive with its lively celebration of global cultures on May 15 during its annual International Day luncheon. The school’s fourth grade tradition honors the rich cultural backgrounds of Giblyn students and staff while inspiring messages of acceptance, resilience and unity. 

This year’s event was themed around the quote, “Every mountain top is within reach if you just keep climbing” – Barry Finlay, a message that resonated as students delivered heartfelt reflections on overcoming obstacles, embracing their heritage and finding strength in their differences. 

Principal Amy Lederer welcomed students, staff, board of education members and district leaders to the celebration. “Our differences make us stronger,” she said. “When we come together to learn about and uplift one another’s cultures, we grow as individuals and as a community.” 

The event featured beautiful performances from the fourth grade step team and a special performance of a reggaeton dance by members of the dance team. Under the direction of music teacher Shannon Abramovitz, the fourth grade students sang two songs the first song reinforcing the power of coming together as one, “In this World Together,” by Teresa Jennings and the second the traditional Mexican celebratory song, “Las Mañanitas.”  

In recognition of outstanding dedication to celebrating and promoting cultural diversity, the 2025 Mary Johnson International Day Award was presented to Mrs. Anita Stevenson. A dedicated member of the Giblyn staff, Mrs. Stevenson was honored for her passion, commitment and efforts to make all students feel valued. 

The celebration concluded with a much-anticipated international food tasting, where students enjoyed traditional dishes from countries including India, Greece, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Italy and Poland. Dressed in cultural attire and beaming with pride, students and staff embraced the day’s spirit of honoring heritage and moving forward to reach new heights.  

 

 

Leo F. Giblyn marks 10th year raising funds for ALS Ride for Life 

Freeport’s Leo F. Giblyn Elementary kicked off ALS Awareness Month with their annual visit from the ALS Ride for Life on May 12. This year marks the 10th year the organization has visited the school as part of its annual tour to raise awareness and support to find a cure for ALS.  
Students, staff and administrators gathered outside of the school holding up signs with messages of hope and proudly wearing blue and white to honor Lou Gehrig. The event began with a performance by the Giblyn Hot Steppers, while cheers of “Strike out ALS” filled the air. Then, members of the ALS Ride for Life organization spoke to the students about ALS and the importance of raising awareness and funds to find a cure.  
Following, Principal Amy Lederer announced the school raised $1,000 through its annual ALS coin drive.  
“Our students truly demonstrated the power of compassion and community,” said Principal Lederer. “Each coin collected represents not just a donation, but a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.” 
Music teacher Ms. Shannon Abramovitz then led the school in a performance of the song, “We are the Agents of Change,” to honor the organization and show how together they can work to find a cure for ALS.  
Leo F. Giblyn Elementary remains committed to supporting the ALS Ride for Life and empowering students to be lifelong agents of change. 

 

 

Giblyn Elementary welcomes Freeport Police 

for annual Adopt-a-Cop program

Leo F. Giblyn Elementary School’s fourth grade classes hosted their school's annual "Adopt-a-Cop" program, marking the start of a yearlong partnership between students and law enforcement. 

This year, the event was attended by Mayor Robert Kennedy of the Village of Freeport and Superintendent of Schools Fia Davis, who joined in welcoming the officers.  

Principal Amy Lederer opened the assembly and expressed her gratitude. “The Adopt-a-Cop program is a fantastic opportunity for our students to connect with local heroes and learn about the importance of safety and community,” she said.  

The fourth grade students showed their appreciation by performing two songs under the direction of music teacher Shannon Abramovitz, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for the officers. 

During the assembly, student representatives from each class shared their thoughts on the significance of the Adopt-a-Cop program and expressed their gratitude to the officers for their dedication to the community. Then, students from each class introduced their adopted officer for the school year.  

 “The Adopt-a-Cop initiative builds a bridge between our students and local law enforcement,” said Ms. Davis. “By participating we are fostering mutual respect and understanding that extends beyond the classroom.” 

Following the ceremony, the students and their newly adopted officers returned to their classrooms where they engaged in conversations about the role of police officers, asked questions about their jobs and talked about Adopt-a-Cop activities for the remainder of the program.  

Throughout the school year, the officers will serve as mentors, visiting classrooms, writing letters, and hosting virtual meetings. These activities are aimed at building relationships and helping students gain an appreciation for the important work of the Freeport Village Police Department.