(June 17, 2025) Abraham Lincoln School No. 22 held its annual Safety Patrol Award Ceremony on Monday, June 16, recognizing student leaders who help promote a safe and supportive school environment. The ceremony celebrated students for their service in assisting with arrival and dismissal and helping younger classmates navigate the school day.
This year’s event included a special surprise as Monroe County Executive Adam Bello joined the ceremony to formally recognize Mr. Noel Colon, a bilingual special education teaching assistant who has worked at School No. 22 since 1994 and has served in the Rochester City School District for even longer. Mr. Colon has organized the Safety Patrol program for 21 years, something that has become a tradition for students and families.
“That is what it is all about, making our kids feel good and be able to serve others in the spirit of good service,” said Colon. “It is a wonderful program. I have been doing this for 21 years and have been with the District for 34 years.”
“Mr. Colon has been doing a spectacular job,” said Dr. Clinton Bell, School No. 22’s principal. “He says he is just a teaching assistant, and I will remind him that he is much more. He is someone who greatly impacts our students, families, and school community.”
Interim Superintendent Dr. Demario Strickland also attended the ceremony to support and congratulate the student honorees. The event underscored the importance of student leadership and the positive impact of staff who help make those opportunities possible.
