Smithtown Students Honor First Responders During ‘Hometown Heroes’ Celebration

SMITHTOWN, NY — Dogwood Elementary School expanded its annual Police Appreciation events this year into a broader “Hometown Heroes” celebration, recognizing first responders, military members and healthcare workers who serve the community.

“This year, we are excited to celebrate all of our Hometown Heroes, the first responders in our community that we look to on a daily basis for safety and security,” Principal Renee Carpenter said.

The celebration began May 11 as School Resource Officers joined students for Kindergarten Field Day activities, participating in games and cheering on students throughout the event.

Leadership Club students also helped mark the occasion by creating patrol and snack bags for local heroes, along with handwritten cards of appreciation made by students across the school.

Throughout the week, Dogwood Elementary continued its efforts to honor police officers, firefighters, healthcare workers and military personnel through schoolwide activities focused on gratitude and community service.

School officials said the expanded celebration reflects the importance of recognizing the people who help keep the community safe and supported every day.