An essay written by Amanda Jaggernath, a prospective 7th grader at M.S. 137 America’s School of Heroes in Ozone Park, earned her more than just the admiration of City Councilwoman Joann Ariola last week.
Jaggernath traveled to City Hall on Thursday, Aug. 15, not only as a Ozone Park resident but mostly as the Council Member for District 32 neighborhoods for the day.
Accompanied by her mother, Sharmillie Haymchand, and Councilwoman Ariola, Jaggernath talked with fellow members of the City Council, voted on the chamber floor, and went on a tour of the historic legislative building.
The young temporary legislator had few words to share with City Hall, but it was enough to leave a lasting message.
“I am honored to represent my school here at City Hall,” Jaggernath said while addressing the Council from the chamber floor. “I’m incredibly excited to be here and have the opportunity to meet with all of you.”
What secured Jaggernath’s place as a council member for a day, taking a place at Ariola’s side, was an essay submitted to the 2024 District 32 Veteran Essay Contest earlier this year.
The student’s heartfelt paper about her physical education teacher at M.S. 137, Heather Avagnano, secured her victory in the neighborhood-wide contest and paved the way for her day of parliament.
“Amanda wrote such a beautiful, well-written essay about her teacher Ms. Avagnano,” Ariola said. “As soon as I read it, I knew I had to meet this young woman.”
Jaggernath’s essay on Ms. Avagnano recognizes her gym teacher as both an educator and a former member of the United States Navy. It shares how Avagnano pushed ahead in her pursuit of service to her country despite the difficulties of being away from her family.
The honorary council member for the day also highlighted her teacher’s most memorable moments in the Navy, sailing out to sea on the USS L. Y. SPEAR (AS-36) during the Persian Gulf War.
In a key part of her essay, Jaggernath writes that learning from Ms. Avagnano taught her the importance of fitness and the value of hard work, perseverance and determination.
The Navy veteran kept a family tradition of serving the country in the United States Military. Further reporting by QNS found that Avagnano followed in her father’s footsteps, having served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. Her Grandfather served in the U.S. Army during WWI and Avagano’s family is on track to continue the military service tradition.
So honored and thankful how my school celebrates Veteran’s Day through various displays in the school! Very much appreciated!!! #VeteransDay2021 @Principal_Trin @MS137Heroes @mrbennici28 @District27NYC pic.twitter.com/3YTVdiUmuq
— Heather Avagnano (@HAvagnano) November 10, 2021
Ariola emphasized the significance of Jaggernath’s essay and praised her for taking such an active role in her community.
“She has such a bright future ahead, is part of so many activities in her school and is active in her student government,” Ariola added. “I know that this will not be the last time I see Amanda, and I know she will do great in whatever journeys she embarks on in the years to come.”
However, after a long day in the legislative halls and chambers, the group settled on a more relaxed setting, Little Italy Pizza near City Hall, where Jaggernath, her mother, and Councilwoman Ariola enjoyed a slice of pizza.
In her remarks at City Hall, Jaggernath confidently highlighted the key lesson she took away from the experience.
“This just proves that despite the challenges my hardworking immigrant parent has faced to give me the best education, that I can achieve anything in life possible for me and my family,” Jaggernath added.
Although there is no telling where Jaggernath’s life will take her, there is a chance constituents may see her again at City Hall one day.
