Please join us in wishing congratulations to DLEACS band and cheer squad heroes who marched in the annual Jersey City St. Patrick Day parade! These students deserve special recognition for representing our school in the yearly outdoor activity despite the onslaught of rain.

Making their fourth appearance, under the direction of DLEACS music teacher, Mr. Polatchek thirty band members serenaded the crowds who lined the street to watch the annual parade processional ascend Kennedy Boulevard. DLEACS' float featured a kindergartner, Veronica Santana, queen of the float who wore a traditional kelly green crown to celebrate the Irish holiday. To the delight of many spectators, our small leader greeted children in the streets by way of throwing candy to which they ran to catch. This year to complete our entourage, DLEACS' cheer squad joined us. Under the direction of Ms. A. West and Ms. Wilbert, their team roared with school chants throughout the parade as spectators cheered them on. 

On occasion, the band and squad coordinated on performing, 'Baby Shark,' a favorite commercial tune. Several parade participants joined in singing and requested encore performances!

Music education is a vital aspect of our school curriculum and contributes to children's intellectual development. Students of music can be more emotionally developed, with empathy towards other cultures. The St. Patrick Day parade provides an excellent venue for our mission to help children ability to grow socially and emotionally while providing exposure to the world around them.

Special acknowledgment goes to CEO, Christopher Garlin and board member, Eugene Squeo for walking with us in the rain to the bandstand in Journal Square, and to Maureen Hulings for making the appearance possible. Thanks also goes to Ms. Wright for her ongoing support.

We could not be more proud of our band and cheer students Great job! See some our photos here.