Riverhead Staff Honored for Student-Saving Heroics  

Staff Members Took Immediate Action to Help Injured Student at Aquebogue Elementary School

RIVERHEAD, NEW YORK (OCTOBER 2025)—Four Riverhead Central School District staff members were recently honored by the Board of Education for their heroic and effective response to an emergency situation.

When a student was seriously injured during recess at Aquebogue Elementary School, a team of staff members sprang into action with calm demeanor, skill, and compassion. School nurse Dawn Carrera, security guard Tarrence Laird, fourth-grade teacher Paula Almonte, and school resource officer Kaley Castantine responded immediately. They provided emergency care and coordinated with first responders to ensure the student received the help they needed as quickly as possible. The student is now back in school and doing well.

“The teamwork and professionalism shown by Ms. Carrera, Mr. Laird, Ms. Almonte, and Officer Castantine exemplify the care and dedication of Aquebogue’s staff, who prioritize student safety every day,” said Aquebogue Elementary School Principal Bryan Miltenberg. “Their quick thinking and steady presence made all the difference in a frightening situation. We are deeply grateful for the way they cared for our student and for each other.”

For more information about the Riverhead Central School District, please visit the district’s website at www.riverhead.net. Happenings in the district can also be followed on Facebook at www.facebook.com/riverheadCSD. #BlueWavesPride.

From left, Aquebogue Elementary School Assistant Principal Jaclyn Kenney, teacher Paula Almonte, school nurse Dawn Carrera, school resource officer Kaley Castantine, and Principal Bryan Miltenberg