Wantagh Middle School’s cafeteria turned into a hub of advocacy and support with the help of Wantagh SEPTA on March 18 for its annual resource fair. The event, which saw a significant turnout from families and educators across multiple school districts, showed the growing demand for specialized services within the community.

With over 30 vendors and over 100 people in attendance, the fair provided a "one-stop shop" for families navigating the complexities of special education and developmental support. The offerings were diverse, ranging from:

• Recreational Programs: Inclusive sports, arts, and social clubs.
• Therapeutic Services: Private providers specializing in occupational, speech, and behavioral therapies.
• Support Advocacy: Organizations dedicated to helping families navigate legal and educational rights.

While hosted by Wantagh SEPTA, the event’s impact reached well beyond the local neighborhood. Staff and families from several neighboring districts attended, highlighting a regional commitment to inclusive excellence.

"We are so grateful to our administrators, teachers, and support staff," says Marybeth Renolds, co-president. "They are the ones on the ground every day, creating the inclusive environments where our amazing kids can truly thrive."

The success of the evening was largely attributed to the leadership of organizers Jessica Brice and Kathryn Schisano, whose months of planning culminated in a seamless and high-energy event. Special thanks is also extended to middle school Principal Mr. Ciuffo, and Assistant Principal Ms. Quattrocchi, and Director of Facilities, Rob Lovergine, along with the middle school custodial team, for their efforts in configuring the cafeteria to accommodate the large crowd and vendor booths.

As the fair concluded, the message was clear: in Wantagh, support for the special needs community is not just a service—it is a shared priority.