AUSSIE

Blog entry posted May 21st, 2009 by Jeff Vohden

On Friday I had the pleasure of attending PS 130’s 7th Annual Benefit Dinner.  If you don’t know about PS 130, you should. It is a PreK-5 school with about 1,100 students located in the Chinatown section of New York City.  PS 130 has gained a great reputation in New York City and beyond. Principal Lily Woo and her staff have done a masterful job of moving a school that was once considered an average Chinatown school to one of the finest schools in New York City. The school has not only established a strong academic curriculum, they have also implemented an arts program in each grade that provides every student with a well-rounded, quality education.

Being lucky enough to attend event was special in itself but, there were so many things that made the evening a great experience.

First, the performances by the students were extraordinary. From the drum line groups, to the chorus, to different dance groups, to the dragon dancers, it was as good as “American Idol” and “Dancing with the Stars” combining into one heart-wrenching show. The ballroom dancing was a real treat—after all, how often do you see 10- and 11-year olds dancing together like that!

Second, the show of support from the community was incredible. The room was packed with school families and their guests all having a great time. The Parents Association did a fantastic job with the whole evening, making everyone feel welcomed. You couldn’t help but feel the enthusiasm and pride for PS 130 all night.

And third, the school honored four people who have made significant contributions to the school—former NYC Deputy Director of Hunan Resources Ms. Lorraine Smith, two members of the school’s technology team, Mr. Renny Fong and Mr. Jimmy Moy, and “one of our own”, AUSSIE consultant Ms. Kaye Lawson.

It was very special for those of us from AUSSIE to be present for this award. Kaye is one of our finest consultants and she has worked in PS 130 since 1997. They refer to her as “an invaluable support, resource and mentor.” In the dinner program they said “the results of [Kaye’s] work with PS 130 in building a community of learners is one of the reasons why the school has become one of the city’s highest achieving schools where children love to go and why it is now serving as a model for schools across the country.” We know that Kaye brings a depth of understanding, enthusiasm, and professionalism to every school she works in.

It makes us all very proud to be associated with Kaye and we greatly appreciate the recognition of her work by PS 130.

I am looking forward to AUSSIE’s continued partnership with PS 130 – and to next year’s dinner!

Did you attend this event?  Or do you know Kaye? Leave a comment!