Domenic Belcastro

Service Award

Domenic Belcastro and his father, Domenic Sr., have been a cornerstone of the Levittown community for nearly 50 years. Through their family-owned restaurant, Domenico's, they have consistently supported local schools, organizations, and families, becoming an integral part of the district's fabric.

For decades, every school in the Levittown district has turned to Domenico's for classroom pizzas, staff meals, gift cards for families in need, and raffle prizes for school fundraisers. Domenic and his family have generously provided reduced prices, donations, and sponsorships to countless school functions, sports teams, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and other youth programs. Their contributions have extended to local organizations such as Kiwanis, the library, PTAs, and community initiatives including Forrest City, reflecting a deep and ongoing commitment to the town.

Domenic and his team have also supported educational staff, hosting the Levittown United Teachers New Teacher's Dinner and the Levittown Retired Teachers Luncheons for many years. They have consistently donated gift cards, purchased space in fundraising journals, and contributed to the broader mission of strengthening schools and community groups throughout Levittown.

Beyond philanthropy, Domenico's has been a hub for family life in the community. For generations, families have celebrated milestones there - from baptisms, communions, Sweet 16s, Quinceaneras, bridal showers, baby showers, birthdays, and anniversaries to end-of-life events such as wakes and celebrations of life. Through these moments, Domenic and his family have become part of the personal history of countless Levittown residents.

Through nearly half a century of dedication, service, and generosity, Domenic Belcastro and his family have exemplified the spirit of community, making a lasting impact on Levittown schools, organizations, and families. Their contributions, hospitality, and unwavering support make them a cherished and deserving member of the Levittown Public Schools Hall of Fame.

Dr. Patrick Blatt

Alumni Award
Division Avenue High School, 2010

Dr. Patrick Blatt is a distinguished scientist and Division Avenue High School graduate of 2010, whose dedication, perseverance, and passion for science exemplify the values of the Levittown community.

Dr. Blatt earned his Bachelor's degree in Biology from SUNY Geneseo in 2014 and went on to complete his Ph.D. in Biology at the SUNY Albany - RNA Institute in 2021, where he was awarded a scholarship for his doctoral studies. While completing his doctoral program, Patrick participated in an internship at a leading pharmaceutical research company, where his outstanding performance led to a full-time position. Today, he continues to advance scientific discovery, specializing in quality control and testing of medical treatments that are critical to modern medicine.

Patrick's passion for science was first sparked at Wisdom Lane Middle School and nurtured at Division Avenue High School, where he was inspired by his 10th-grade teacher, the late Mrs. Kim Foglia. Her mentorship, combined with Patrick's determination and curiosity, propelled him to excel academically and professionally.

A true role model for the youth of Levittown, Dr. Blatt demonstrates how dedication, hard work, and a love of learning can overcome adversity and open doors to extraordinary achievements. His research, leadership, and commitment to encouraging the next generation of scientists make him a shining example of Levittown excellence and a deserving member of the Levittown Public Schools Hall of Fame.

Thomas Cestaro

Service Award

Thomas Cestaro devoted 37 years to educating and inspiring students in the Levittown Public Schools, building a legacy defined by excellence, mentorship, and heart. For most of his distinguished career, he taught English at Division Avenue High School, where he became one of the school's most respected and beloved educators.

Dynamic, demanding, and deeply invested in his students' growth, Tom had a rare ability to connect with young people while challenging them to think critically and strive for their best. He served as advisor to the National Honor Society and coached basketball early in his career, always seeking ways to mentor students beyond the classroom.

One of his most lasting contributions was co-creating and teaching the senior-level "Integrated Studies" course with Fred Goelz. This innovative class blended English, social studies, and the humanities into a rigorous, discussion-based experience in which students researched topics of personal interest, wrote extensively, and presented their work. For 13 years, the course became a transformative capstone experience, remembered by generations of seniors as one of the most meaningful classes of their high school careers.

Former students consistently speak of how he changed their perspectives on learning and life. Hundreds have shared stories of how he inspired them to pursue their passions and become productive, contributing members of society. Many stayed in touch long after graduation, inviting him to reunions and gatherings. Yearbooks were frequently dedicated to him - a testament to the respect and admiration he earned.

His influence extended to colleagues as well. He mentored new teachers, formed lifelong friendships, and helped cultivate a strong professional community. A founding member of the Levittown United Teachers, he twice ran for president to address inequities in the district's salary schedule. Though he did not win, his advocacy helped bring attention to the issue, leading to negotiations in the 1988 contract that benefited many educators.

Tom also played a key role in sustaining the Levittown Employees Memorial Mass, annually reading the names of employees who had passed and ensuring their contributions were honored - even when it meant paying tribute to close friends.

At home, he led by example. Inspired by his love of teaching, all three of his children pursued careers in education. He often quoted his cousin, Vince Lombardi: "The measure of who we are is what we do with what we have." He lived those words - pushing his children and students to be their best while teaching the importance of integrity, effort, and family.

Family was always his first priority. Tom worked extra jobs so his wife could be home with their children and later found immense joy in supporting his seven grandchildren at games, performances, and graduations.

In 2024, Tom was honored with the NYSUT Legacy Award, recognizing a lifetime of dedication to public education.

Through nearly four decades of service, Tom Cestaro embodied the very best of Levittown - passion, innovation, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to students and family - making him a most deserving member of the Levittown Public Schools Hall of Fame. Having passed away in 2023, we are proud to honor his memory permanently in our hall of fame.

Steve Costello

Alumni Award
Levittown Memorial, 1977

1977 Levittown memorial graduate Steve Costello is a legendary coach, educator, and longtime pillar of the Levittown Public Schools whose leadership has shaped high school athletics in Levittown for decades. A graduate of the Levittown school community, Costello has served the district as a teacher, administrator, and, most prominently, as a baseball coach - leaving an extraordinary legacy in both education and athletics.

For more than 30 years, Costello has been the head varsity baseball coach at MacArthur High School, guiding generations of student-athletes with passion, integrity, and a deep commitment to character development through sport. Under his direction, his teams compiled an exceptional record - including more than 500 career wins and a remarkable run of championships that included league titles, Nassau County championships, Long Island championships, and a memorable New York State Championship season in 1994, when his team finished 29-0 - becoming the first undefeated Long Island team in state history.

Coach Costello's excellence has been recognized at both the regional and state levels. He was named Region I Coach of the Year and New York State Coach of the Year by the National Federation of High School Coaches - honors that reflect his influence not only on his own teams but on high school baseball across the region. In that vein, as 5 times Coach of the Long Island baseball team in the New York State Empire Games, his team earned the Gold Medal 4 times.

Beyond the wins and titles, Costello's greatest impact has been on the lives of the young people he has coached. He emphasizes personal growth, teamwork, and resilience, believing that the lessons of baseball, teamwork, perseverance, sportsmanship, extend far beyond the diamond. His mentorship has guided countless student-athletes toward success in college athletics and life.

In recognition of his remarkable career and contributions to high school sports, Steve Costello was inducted into the Nassau County High School Athletics Hall of Fame - a testament to his decades of service, leadership, and competitive excellence in Nassau County athletics.

Through his tenure as a coach, teacher, and mentor, Costello has helped define a culture of athletic pride in Levittown. His legacy continues to inspire current and future generations of students, coaches, and community members, making him a highly deserving member of the Levittown Public Schools Hall of Fame.

Domenic Danetti

Service Award

Domenic "Dino" Danetti is a decorated member of the New York City Fire Department whose service to his community goes far beyond his courageous work as a first responder. A firefighter who actively served at Ground Zero during and after the attacks of September 11, 2001, Danetti answered his city's greatest call with bravery, resilience, and selfless dedication - embodying the very best of public service.

For years, Dino has also been a leading force in youth sports in Levittown, dedicating himself to giving local children opportunities to play baseball at every level. Through his longstanding involvement with LSW Baseball - one of the area's most vibrant youth leagues - and travel programs such as South Shore Elite baseball, he has helped create teams, coordinate seasons, and build communities around the game. LSW Baseball today supports intramural play, travel teams, clinics, and championship events that keep young athletes engaged, active, and connected both on and off the field.

Danetti's commitment to the sport extends beyond coaching and leadership: he has been instrumental in raising funds to upgrade local baseball fields, ensuring that facilities are safe, welcoming, and suitable for player development and community gatherings. His efforts have strengthened the infrastructure of youth baseball in Levittown and enriched the experience of countless families who come out each season to play, learn, and grow together.

Through decades of service - whether saving lives as a respected member of the FDNY or mentoring young athletes and supporting community leagues - Dino Danetti has exemplified dedication, leadership, and heart. His contributions have not only advanced youth athletics in Levittown but also strengthened the character and spirit of the community he proudly serves. For his unwavering commitment to service and the impact he has had on generations of families, Danetti is a most deserving inductee into the Levittown Public Schools Hall of Fame.

Alden Dyckman

Alumni Award
Levittown Memorial, 1975

Alden Dyckman is a lifelong Levittown resident. Most importantly, he subscribes to its small town values. Having graduated from Levittown Memorial High School in 1975, he went on to Nassau Community College and New York Tech. His siblings include a brother and two sisters who were also Memorial graduates.

Volunteer is a word and mindset that is not only an activity but a devotion to Alden. It began in High School where he was a three-sport athlete. For ten years he travelled internationally working for an export company dealing with South America. Eventually he worked for the Plainedge School District and retired in 2014. During that time he acted as the head Middle school lacrosse coach and assistant football coach. He also served as the co-founder and volunteer coach for the third and fourth grade boys PAL lacrosse program.

During those years he continued a series of volunteer projects.

He began a long relationship with St. Bernards Catholic Church, acting as a coordinator for their "Meals on Wheels" program, delivering much needed food and transportation to needy seniors. Alden has satisfied that role for over a decade.

In 2010, Alden joined the Long Island Metropolitan Lacrosse Foundation where he participated in numerous events and functions. He now oversees the Foundations' Special Needs team called the Knights in conjunction with The Nassau County Police Athletic League. It operates during Spring and Winter weekly, including all age groups and needs. The Knights also participate in MacArthur's Autism Awareness day. He recruits other volunteers and High School teams to assist with the clinics. His resume and awards are numerous.

• 2007 - Ed Crabb service award bestowed by the Nassau County Lacrosse Coaches Association.
• 2012 - LIMLF HOF Whitey Hendrickson Lifetime Achievement Award.
• 2021 - Division Avenue HS PTSA Award, Honorary Life Award
• 2022 - Nassau County Lacrosse Officials Association Man of the Year
• 2025 - LIMLF HOF Harvey Cohen Outstanding Service Award.

In 2014 Alden first joined the LIMLF Shootout for Soldiers event. The Charity contributes to four Veterans Organizations. The annual 24-hour lacrosse marathon consisting of nearly 100 teams has raised over $1.6 million dollars during its tenure. He focused on transporting disabled veterans from various locations.

Always eager to step in, Alden quietly involves himself into what some may describe as difficult situations. He does so with a smile and open hand, gaining satisfaction through the positive reaction of others, knowing more tasks are awaiting his enormous kindness.

Shawn Fagan

Alumni Award
Division Avenue High School, 1996

Shawn Fagan's journey of excellence began at Division Avenue High School, from which he graduated in 1996. During his time there, he established himself as one of the most accomplished student-athletes in school history. On the baseball diamond, he made Nassau County history as the first player ever to earn All-County honors for four consecutive years (1993-1996). A three-time League MVP (1994-1996), he was named All-State and Long Island Player of the Year in 1996. That same season, he received the Diamond Award as Nassau County's top baseball position player, earned High School All-American recognition, and led Division to the 1996 New York State Class B Championship, capturing Championship MVP honors.

A standout in football as well, Fagan was a 1993 All-County selection and a 1994 All-Conference honoree, solidifying his reputation as a dominant two-sport athlete.

Continuing his academic and athletic career at Penn State University, Fagan became one of the most decorated players in program history. A three-time All-Big Ten selection (1998-2000), he earned ABCA All-Region and Second Team All-America honors in 2000. He established multiple Penn State career records, including RBIs, home runs, and walks, along with the single-season RBI record. In 2000, he helped guide the Nittany Lions to a 45-19 record, the program's first NCAA postseason appearance in 24 years, and its first-ever Super Regional berth, finishing the season ranked 18th nationally by USA Today and ESPN.

Fagan's success extended to the professional level when he was selected in the 13th round of the 2000 Major League Baseball Draft by the Toronto Blue Jays. Over five professional seasons, he advanced to the Triple-A level in 2003 and 2004 while consistently ranking among league leaders in offensive production.

Equally committed to academic and professional growth, Fagan earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Penn State University in 2005. He later completed a Master of Sport Administration from Belmont University, followed by a Master of Business Administration from Saint Leo University in 2010. Demonstrating a deep commitment to leadership in higher education, he earned his Doctor of Education from Temple University in 2019.

From his days in Levittown through his collegiate, professional, and career achievements, Fagan has distinguished himself as a leader and innovator whose impact extends far beyond athletics. His journey reflects excellence, dedication, and distinction across sports, education, and higher education leadership - embodying the mission and spirit of the Levittown Public Schools Hall of Fame.

Central to his development was the mentorship of his high school coach, Doug Robins. More than a coach, Robins served as a father figure and mentor, instilling lessons of discipline, humility, teamwork, and resilience. Those values extended well beyond the baseball field, shaping how Fagan approaches family, leadership, and his professional life. The guidance he received remains a cornerstone of his character and continues to influence him today.

Michael Pappas

Service Award

School board leadership plays a critical role in shaping strong public schools, particularly during periods of challenge and change. Few members exemplify the leadership, advocacy, and service this recognition represents as clearly as Mr. Michael Pappas. Throughout his 18-year tenure on the Levittown Board of Education, Mr. Pappas has been a clear, thoughtful, and effective advocate for the district, often bridging the gap between the board table and the broader community. His service has extended well beyond policy, as seen through his leadership in organizations like Levittown North Baseball and the Levittown Kiwanis Club. Whether serving as President, Vice President, or Trustee, he has consistently spoken with a deep understanding of the needs of students and families, anchored by a foundation of integrity.

Elected in 2008 during a period of significant financial instability, Mr. Pappas was instrumental in guiding the district through complex and often difficult policy decisions. His tenure involved navigating substantial state aid reductions, the implementation of the tax cap, the transition to Common Core and APPR, and evolving concerns regarding school safety. Throughout these hurdles, he acted as a catalyst for productive dialogue, ensuring that even the most contentious issues were met with thoughtful discussion. This steady hand was especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when public education faced unprecedented operational and political pressures. During this time, he worked closely with district leadership to support open debate while remaining focused on student needs amid rapidly changing conditions. His willingness to stand firm in support of sound educational practices during such a highly charged period demonstrated both courage and a commitment to the mission of public education.

Beyond his formal role, Mr. Pappas' dedication frequently manifested in direct service to his neighbors. During the height of the pandemic, he worked alongside fellow board members and district employees to operate a food pantry, personally assisting with food distribution twice each week to serve hundreds of individuals. This effort reflected his core belief that supporting students also means addressing the broader hardships facing the community. This holistic approach to leadership also drove significant improvements in district programs, from the expansion of dual-enrollment college credit courses and the transition to a nine-period secondary schedule to the growth of the Universal Pre-Kindergarten program. These initiatives contributed to measurable gains, including higher graduation rates, an increase in Advanced Regents Diplomas, and national accolades for the district's high schools and middle schools.

Mr. Pappas has been equally passionate about the "whole child," advocating for expanded athletic opportunities such as the district swim team, flag football, and girls' wrestling, while prioritizing mental health by supporting the addition of social workers in every school. His impact is further visible in the district's physical landscape; he oversaw major capital improvements including cafeteria renovations, the installation of the district's first turf fields with stadium lighting, and the introduction of solar energy. Furthermore, he was instrumental in founding the Levittown Educational Foundation, creating a permanent vehicle to enhance district programs. As an advocate at the regional and state levels, he served on the executive committee of the Nassau-Suffolk School Boards Association and successfully lobbied in Albany to secure hundreds of thousands of dollars in supplemental aid. As Mr. Pappas concludes his final term, his legacy is reflected not just in facilities and programs, but in the principled example he set for school board service. Through his decades of advocacy and his constant presence at community celebrations, Mr. Michael Pappas has made a lasting contribution to public education and is highly deserving of this recognition.

Dr. Anthony Scotti

Alumni Award
Levittown Memorial, 1983

Dr. Anthony J. Scotti Jr. is a distinguished historian, educator, and Levittown Memorial High School graduate of 1983 whose career has exemplified excellence, scholarship, and service. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in History, cum laude, from Greensboro College in 1987, he went on to receive a Master of Arts from Wake Forest University in 1991 and a Doctor of Philosophy in History from the University of South Carolina in 1995.

Dr. Scotti served his country as a Private (E-2) in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1982 to 1983, stationed with the 449th Maintenance Company in Bellmore, New York, and was honorably discharged. Early in his professional career, he combined historical scholarship with hands-on experience as a History Trades Interpreter at Colonial Williamsburg, a Reference Librarian's Assistant at Wake Forest University, and a teaching assistant in the History Department at the University of South Carolina. He also taught summer courses at Greensboro College.

From 1996 to 2007, Dr. Scotti served as History Series Editor for Bruccoli Clark Layman/Manly, editing volumes such as American Eras, World Eras, American Decades, and History in Dispute. Simultaneously, he taught as an adjunct instructor before joining Midlands Technical College in 2007 as a full-time History Instructor, teaching American History, Western Civilization, Latin America, American Military, and American Studies. At Midlands, he has held multiple leadership roles, including Chair of the Faculty Council (2013-2014), History Program Coordinator (2015-present), History Pathway Faculty Liaison (2020-present), and School of English and Humanities Council member.

Dr. Scotti's scholarship is widely recognized. He has published over 20 scholarly articles and essays, authored the acclaimed book Brutal Virtue: The Myth and Reality of Banastre Tarleton (2002), and appeared on the History Channel's Battlefield Detectives series in 2004. His work has been permanently archived in the Library of Congress's Veterans History Project.

His outstanding teaching has earned numerous awards, including the Marvin L. Skaggs Award in History (1987), the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Award (2011), Midlands Technical College Faculty of Excellence Award (2011), South Carolina Governor's Distinguished Professor Award (2013), Distinguished Lecturer in Arts and Sciences Award (2017), and the Albin S. Johnson Faculty Excellence Award (2023). In 2022, he was recognized as Outstanding American History Teacher for South Carolina by the Daughters of Colonial Wars and placed second nationally in the same competition.

Beyond his academic achievements, Dr. Scotti exemplifies service and community engagement. He has volunteered as a historical reenactor, a lunch buddy at a local elementary school, and an active member of his church. He has given historical lectures to organizations including South Carolina Educational Television, the South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, the Fort Ticonderoga Association, and the Historic Camden Foundation.

Known for his warmth, humor, and mentorship, Dr. Scotti has profoundly impacted his students, colleagues, and the community. He is celebrated not only for his scholarship but also for his dedication to fostering learning, curiosity, and civic engagement.

Dr. Anthony J. Scotti Jr. represents the highest ideals of education, service, and leadership. His scholarship, teaching, and commitment to others make him a deserving inductee into the Levittown Public Schools Hall of Fame.

Dr. Herman Sirois

Service Award

Dr. Herman A. Sirois served as Superintendent of the Levittown Public Schools for 25 years, one of the longest tenures of any superintendent on Long Island, and the most transformational leader in the district's history.

Under Dr. Sirois's leadership, the district experienced remarkable academic progress across multiple measures of student success. During his tenure, student achievement moved from below county average to consistently performing at or above county averages on New York State assessments, Regents exams, Regents diploma rates, college attendance, Advanced Placement participation, and other educational quality benchmarks.

During his tenure as Superintendent:

• Regents diploma rates increased from approximately 30% to over 90%.
• College attendance rates rose from the mid-30% range to over 90%.
• Advanced Placement enrollment grew from zero to more than 40% of eligible students.
• Participation in SAT testing rose from about 10% to over 75% of students.
• College attendance among vocational education students increased from 5% to over 80%.
• The district became a leader in state achievement, significantly raising student performance on state exams at all grade levels.

These broad gains reflected Dr. Sirois's strategic focus on curriculum rigor, higher expectations for all learners, and a district-wide mission of 'Success for Every Student.'

Beyond measurable outcomes, Dr. Sirois was celebrated for his vision in enhancing the overall student experience and supporting families. Under his leadership, the district introduced expanded programs such as before- and aftercare services, extended-day kindergarten, the establishment of the Gerald R Claps Career and Technical Center, and additional enrichment opportunities that provided students with greater access to learning and support. He also strengthened the district's connection to the broader community by celebrating milestones such as the 50th and 60th anniversaries of the building of Levittown and by providing a permanent home for the Levittown Historical Society & Museum, ensuring that local history and community pride were preserved for future generations.

Through his enduring commitment to academic excellence, student growth, and community engagement, Herman Sirois exemplified the values of commitment, dedication, and achievement ' making him a celebrated and deserving member of the Levittown Public Schools Hall of Fame.