Senator Anna Kaplan honors Mineola school psychologist

Originally published in The Island Now

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Senator Anna M. Kaplan stopped by Hampton Street School in Mineola to present a proclamation to school psychologist Carina Waldman, who Senator Kaplan recently honored at her Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration for her service to our community.

Regarding the event, Senator Kaplan said, “School psychologists play a crucial role in ensuring every child in our community is supported and uplifted, so that no matter their personal circumstances, they can grow and thrive throughout their education journey.  Carina Waldman is a passionate school psychologist at Hampton Street School in Mineola, who, despite managing a huge caseload, makes it seem like every child is her only case.  Being fluent in English and Spanish, Mrs. Waldman makes herself available to all students and their parents at all hours – because so often they need support outside of the traditional school day and have nowhere else to turn for help. 

While some might consider her work a 'job,' Mrs. Waldman considers it a calling, inspired to serve by the story of her own parents and brother who immigrated to this country in 1963 before she was born. While her career helping our kids spans 27 years, she’s spent the last 6 of it here in our community, where she’s beloved as a true bridge between the school and the growing Spanish-speaking immigrant community at-large.  That’s why I’m honored to present her today with a Proclamation on behalf of the New York State Senate and our entire community in recognition of her service to our next generation.”