For the rest of October, anyone driving by Mandalay Elementary School in the Wantagh School District will see a large “HOPE” on the fence. The inspirational word and image of a large ribbon were created by more than 300 small ribbons, tied by students and staff on Oct. 1.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and pink is the color the symbolizes the fight against the disease. Last year, everyone at Mandalay was encouraged to wear pink to begin the month, but this year they decided to take it a step further by creating a visible message. Fourth grade teacher Nicole Romagnuolo suggested the idea to the school’s spirit committee, which plans awareness events and theme days throughout the year.

On the morning of Oct. 1, the school’s custodians outlined the letters and ribbon. Students and teachers first wrote their names on the ribbons and throughout the day, each class came outside to tie them to the fence. By dismissal time, it was complete and students were able to see the end result of their collective effort.  

Ms. Romagnuolo said that was meaningful for students to take part in a schoolwide service project that shows support for members of the community impacted by breast cancer.