On April 11 at Donald Stewart Early Childhood Center School No. 51, the Elizabeth Board of Education hosted an evening of performances in celebration of Autism Acceptance Month, National Poetry Month, and Jazz Appreciation Month. EBOE President Charlene Bathelus Dorgely welcomed everyone to the event and introduced Board Member Iliana Chevres who is sponsoring initiatives dedicated to students reaching their full potential, including Autism Acceptance Month and a partnership with the Monique Burr Foundation and Goya Foods that empowers students and relevant adults with the tools to ensure their personal safety. As emcee of the event, Chevres shared about her initiatives and activities in which she will participate as well as introduced principals from each performing school to come forward to describe their students’ acts.

The performances for the evening included “Classical Bits and Pieces” arranged by Freddie Hubbard, performed by students from Elizabeth High School-Frank J. Cicarell Academy and the EHS Jazz Band, “Spring is in the Air”, performed by students from J. Christian Bollwage Finance Academy, “AH YAY”  by DJ Raphi, performed by students from Victor Mravlag School No. 21, and “I Have A Voice” and “All About Me”, performed by students from Elmora School No. 12.