Throughout the first trimester in Arts and Letters, fourth graders at Bayview Elementary School worked to answer the essential question: “What does it mean to have a great heart?” Students explored a variety of texts and works of art to understand both the literal and figurative meanings of having a great heart. 
They learned about a strong and healthy heart with working valves and blood vessels, as well as people and characters who displayed a heart filled with kindness, compassion, and courage. As a culminating activity, the school welcomed guest speaker Jill Levine, the founder of Forever 9 – The Robbie Levine Foundation.
Mrs. Levine shared the story of her son, Robbie, who tragically passed away at the age of nine from a sudden cardiac event. In his memory, she and her husband founded Forever 9 as a way to prevent this from happening to other families. This grassroots organization raises money to donate AEDs. To date, these life-saving devices have been donated throughout Long Island, including West Islip, across the country, and even internationally.  
The fourth graders were moved by her story and inspired by her message. Students are working on various projects to earn money to donate in support of this meaningful cause.