By Anna Gustafson
The science and arts programs at PS 129 in College Point got a financial boost from Queens scientist James Cervino and his wife Kathryn Cervino, who presented a check for $4,000 to the school along with state Sen.-elect Tony Avella last week.
The Cervinos, of College Point, said Friday that they gave what they hope to be a first installment of funds to the school where their 5-year-old son attends kindergarten. James Cervino, a marine biologist who works with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and owns the Restoration & Conservation Environmental Group, and his wife said they hope to raise $20,000 for the school as well as donate 20 microscopes by June.
James Cervino, a former science professor at Pace University, is also donating his time to do lectures at the elementary school.
“We want this money to go to the arts and sciences,” said James Cervino, a graduate of PS 129. “Math and science will take us to being a stronger nation. We need these students to be better prepared for the work force. If we don’t get to these little people now, we won’t have people to handle the changing environment.”
The Cervinos asked Avella to present the check with them Friday because they said they admired the role Avella has played in being an advocate for the environment, including his support for cleaning up wetlands in Queens. James Cervino has long worked to restore wetlands, including the marsh grasses in the East River along MacNeil Park. While the Cervinos and Avella were at the school, they also met with student government members from the fourth- and fifth-grades.
Avella praised the Cervinos and said they are good role models for the students at PS 129, which is at 128-02 7th Ave.
“This is a great example of what you can do,” Avella said. “A few people really can change the environment.”
PS 129 Principal Marilyn Alesi said she was thrilled to receive the money. She noted the school, like educational institutions across the city, have seen fewer and fewer dollars coming to them thanks to budget cuts.
“We try to offer as many arts programs as possible, but we can’t have as many as have had in the past,” Alesi said.
School officials will meet with the Student Leadership Team, which includes parents, to determine exactly how the funds will be spent.
“We have a lot of needs,” Alesi said.
The principal also echoed Avella’s sentiment that the Cervinos’ involvement is inspirational to the students.
“The children see there are community members who do good deeds for their school and the environment,” she said.
Reach reporter Anna Gustafson by e-mail at agustafson@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4574.
