March 19, 2012

RONKONKOMA MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHERS
HOST RG-GAMES FOR TYLER

Ronkonkoma, NY ---  On Friday night, March 16th, Ronkonkoma Middle School (RMS) teachers and 6th grade students joined forces from 7:00-9:00 PM to confirm their belief that ‘Ty Will Win’ his battle against Hodgekins.  Tyler Ponzio, who attended RMS, is now a 9th grade student at Connetquot High School.  According to RMS Athletic Director Ms. Dee Kirwin “ … our Recreational Games for Ty (RGFT) was attended by 43 sixth grade students, and teachers, for a night of fun and games.  Students participated in games of Basketball, Four Square, Volleyball and BINGO, renamed TYLER, and lettered accordingly!”  Mrs. Mongiello, another teacher-volunteer said that the “… kids had a blast, won great prizes, and helped Ty and his family during a very difficult time.

The event raised $430 to help the Ponzio family cover Tyler’s extensive medical expenses.  The Ronkonkoma Middle School RGFT Night was organized by Ms. Kirwin along with Mr. and Mrs. Justin Hertz.  The following teachers were instrumental in volunteering to help make the night such a fun experience: Mrs. Mongiello, Mrs. DeMeo, Ms. Rexach.

Ronkonkoma Middle School’s RGFT is only the latest effort on the part of Connetquot students, teachers and members of the community to work together to help one of their own.  In January RMS faculty held an afternoon athletic competition among the teachers which brought out a standing-room-only crowd of students and members of the community as a fund-raiser for the Ponzio family. In March a 12 hour marathon Dance-A-Thon was organized by Mrs. Marianne Candito to benefit Tyler and his family.

A foundation has been established to help Tyler Ponzio and his family during this difficult time.  For further information contact Mrs. Mongiello at Ronkonkoma Middle School 631-467-6000.  The entire Connetquot community sends its positive thoughts, and prayers, for Tyler’s continued strength, and recovery.