Way to Go!: Hannah Grunfeld, Levittown
Hannah Grunfeld, a junior at MacArthur High School in Levittown, with Principal Joseph Sheehan. Credit: Levittown School District
A Levittown teenager was among a small group of students nationwide chosen to participate in a summer program that educated children in India about proper diet and nutrition.
Hannah Grunfeld, a junior at MacArthur High School, was given the opportunity after submitting a 500-word essay to the AFS-USA’s (formerly the American Field Service) Project: Change, proposing a volunteer effort abroad.
Grunfeld’s essay suggested converting old school buses into classrooms for students in Ghana.
Though her idea was not selected, she was named one of three runners-up and ultimately replaced one of the top 11 winners who could not attend, Grunfeld said.
“It’s always been my dream to travel the world one day, and to start so young is truly amazing,” the 15-year-old said.
During the two-week trip, Grunfeld stayed with a host family and attended a private school, where she learned about topics ranging from native dances to cooking to music. She also helped deliver a PowerPoint presentation on the importance of nutrition and a street play on healthy eating.
In addition, Grunfeld chose to spend 17 days in Nicaragua over the summer, volunteering in medical clinics and installing water systems for Colorado-based Global Works.
Grunfeld is president of her school’s Key Club and a member of the Drama Club, Mathletes, Science Olympiad and Quiz Bowl. She also is an avid archer.
Michael R. Ebert is an education researcher and has worked for Newsday in various capacities since 2003. He was part of an 11-person team named as 2008 Pulitzer Prize finalists for investigative coverage of the LIRR's platform safety issues.
