Southold High School’s robotics team had a great year, taking first place in the Long Island Regional FIRST Robotics Competition in March and going on to place 28th in the World Championships in St. Louis, Mo., in April, competing against 400 teams from all over the world.
But it was a bittersweet year in some ways, as longtime technology teacher Tony Kryl, who started the robotics club 11 years ago, is retiring this month.
The Southold school board honored Mr. Kryl at its June 13 board meeting.
“I trust you will remain a part of this family,” said Superintendent David Gamberg of Mr. Kryl’s ongoing role in the school. “There aren’t enough words to express my appreciation for what you have done.”
Mr. Kryl said he plans to stay involved with the robotics program, helping new technology teachers and students work on their projects in years to come.
“I will be here. I’ll be coming back, making sure things are up to speed. It will work out,” he said. “We put Southold on the map at the World Championship. I get the comment ‘Who are you guys?’ all the time. We’re just a little school out in Southold, but we’re in the top 10 continuously.”
SPORTSMANSHIP HONORS
During Wednesday’s meeting the district also honored student athletes for the high number of Section XI sportsmanship awards received this year.
Athletic director Joe Braico told school board members that “a lot of the same kids are on the teams that won awards. It shows kids can lead by character and class.”
“We want to honor, recognize and acknowledge sportsmanship,” said Mr. Gamberg. “It’s just not taken lightly by the school district.”
“We appreciate these awards much more than the wins and losses,” said board president Paulette Ofrias. “It means a great deal to our school and your community.”
By Beth Young
06/23/2012