Earlier this year, fifth-grade students within the Bethpage Union Free School District were encouraged to use their creativity to design posters depicting different ways people can conserve water. The contest serves as an engaging activity that teaches students the importance of protecting and preserving Long Island's sole-source aquifer. On June 17, 2026, the Bethpage Water District held a special ceremony at the Bethpage Public Library to recognize all the winners from this year's contest.
"Water is one of Long Island's most valuable natural resources, and helping students understand its importance at an early age is an investment in our future," said Bethpage Water District Commissioner Teri Catapano Black. "Through our annual poster contest and our continued partnership with the Bethpage School District, students learn not only about water conservation and protecting our aquifer, but also the science and technology behind delivering high-quality drinking water. We are incredibly proud of the creativity and enthusiasm they demonstrated this year."
Bethpage Water District Board of Commissioners judged and selected the poster contest finalists based on creativity, design, and the overall water conservation message. First, second, and third-place winners from each of the three elementary schools were selected, and each received a trophy and a personalized certificate.
As part of the Water District and School District partnership, fifth-grade students took a behind-the-scenes tour of the Bethpage Water District's state-of-the-art drinking water production facility. Students witnessed firsthand how the water treatment process works, where water comes from, and how to conserve water.
"Our partnership with the Bethpage Water District brings science to life for our students," said Lorraine Marcis, Science Enrichment Director and 21st Century Program Manager for the Bethpage Union Free School District. "The classroom provides the foundation, but seeing the water treatment process firsthand helps students make meaningful connections between what they learn in school and the vital role high-quality water plays in their everyday lives."
Congratulations to the 2026 Water Conservation Poster Contest Winners:
Click each student's name below to view their entry, or click the "View Gallery" button at the bottom of the page to see all the winning entries.
Central Boulevard Elementary School
Charles Campagne Elementary School
Kramer Lane Elementary School