Recognize This Giant Pillar?

This first photo was taken in July 2019 at the entrance of the old high school—which, during my era, served as our Junior High School.

The second photo, showing students gathered near the pillars, dates back to around 1939–40.

Did you know?

• • • There are four pillars in total.
    • Construction of the old high school on Upper Greene Avenue began in October 1926 at a cost of $338,000 (equivalent to roughly 5.9 million today).
    • The building was officially dedicated on January 21, 1928.

Jumping ahead to 2007, Dr. Mark David Milliron—an award-winning education leader—published a paper titled “Catalyzing Positive Change in Education: The Four Pillars.” His work outlines a framework designed to guide educators, structured around—you guessed it—four foundational pillars:

It’s fascinating how these pillars, both literal and metaphorical, have stood the test of time in shaping education. Do you have any memories tied to this building or thoughts on Dr. Milliron’s framework?

(1) catalyzing conversations
(2) inspiring innovation
(3) championing insight
(4) fostering leadership

Since 1928, many thousands of Sayville Students have passed through, leaned against, and sat all around these four giant pillars. The reality is, some 80 years before Dr. Milliron’s “four pillars” was written and published, Sayville’s educational system embraced conceptual equivalents.

While not necessarily in Dr. Milliron’s exact words, clear principles, strong pillars and exceptional mentorship were all presented to Sayville students by its exceptional corp of fine, enthusiastic teachers, faithful staff, dedicated board of education, and remarkably strong community support. Give a nod to those old pillars next time you pass by.