Second Graders at North Ridge Learn Heart Health and Compassion From Commack Graduate

Second graders in Tara Mari-Ciniski’s class at North Ridge welcomed Commack alumni Ariana Ciniski for a special presentation focusing on the nursing profession and heart health. Ariana, who is Tara’s daughter and a cardiac nurse at Mount Sinai Hospital, shared her professional expertise to teach the young learners about the essential role healthcare workers play in patient care.

Students explored key lessons on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and the steps needed to care for their hearts. The discussion offered the second graders an introductory look into the medical field while highlighting the daily responsibilities of a cardiac nurse.

The lesson extended beyond science and health to focus on empathy and service. The second graders worked together to create no-tie blankets, which will be donated directly to children staying in the hospital.

Through the project, students learned that caring for others involves kindness and personal connection alongside medical treatment. Ariana’s return to the district is a wonderful example of Commack alumni giving back to the community that shaped them while inspiring the next generation of Commack graduates to do the same.