Students from Ms. Carmella Currao’s class at William Floyd High School, along with fellow students and members of the community, recently enjoyed a concert from the rock-and-roll cover band Kool Spektrum as part of the Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library (MMSCL) Teen Enrichment program! The band performed an hour-and-a-half set which brought energy and excitement to the audience. Those in attendance were thrilled to experience a night of live music in such an inclusive and engaging setting.

The talented members of Kool Spektrum each present with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Their concert was a testament to the fantastic things that individuals of all abilities can achieve and to the joy that comes from celebrating each other's unique strengths. The concert served as a fun-filled celebration of inclusion while also showcasing the incredible power of music, ability and community connection!

This event is part of the Teen Enrichment program, which is designed for individuals of all abilities in grades six through 12. It was established in September 2010 by Ms. Currao, a special education teacher at William Floyd High School, and Stephanie Kyle, a teen services librarian at the Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library. Over time, the program has expanded to include an adult session for participants who age out of the youth program, ensuring continued community involvement for all. 

Held at the MMSCL Moriches branch, the Teen Enrichment program features a variety of activities that promote social interaction, such as cookie decorating, making English muffin pizzas, Bingo, board games, and fun events like "pizza and police." This summer, participants enjoyed an ice cream social and the performance of Kool Spektrum.

Teen Enrichment offers a welcoming environment for teens to socialize and forge new friendships. The program meets monthly, with most sessions occurring from 6 pm to 7 pm. Through consistent participation, the program has helped build meaningful connections with attendees, and looks forward to welcoming new people. Each session concludes with smiles, leaving participants excited for the next gathering.

The next Teen Enrichment event is scheduled for Thursday, September 11 from 6 pm to 7 pm at the MMSCL Moriches Branch, 201 Montauk Highway in Moriches, where participants will have the opportunity to play board games with Ms. Currao and Nick Nappi, program manager. Registration is required for this event. Click here to register.!