Each year, Oak Park Elementary School in Bay Shore holds a moving-up ceremony to salute fifth-graders graduating to middle school.

Fifth grade teacher Michele Bodanza always gives a speech, and she tears up each time — but said she expected this year’s ceremony to be extra emotional.

After teaching thousands of students and keeping in touch with many of them as they’ve grown into adulthood, raising families and embarking on careers, Bodanza, 55, of Wading River, retired in June.

“I love seeing what their lives are up to and the amazing people they’ve become,” she said.

Years after former student Katie Reidy graduated, she said Bodanza remains a part of her life.

“She’s created a legacy of love and kindness,” said Reidy, 39.

Reidy, who attended the school 30 years ago and is a muralist and graphic artist in Westchester County, returned to Oak Park for two days in April to paint a mural in the cafeteria. The design shows whimsical woodland animals enjoying a dance party.

Bodanza said she has been a strong advocate for her fifth graders, making sure their last year in elementary school is a special one, whether that means organizing a field trip or arranging for a Mister Softee ice cream truck to come to school.

“She’s not a shrinking violet,” said Oak Park Principal Lisa Catandella. “She’s not afraid to say what needs to be said."

Bodanza’s involvement extends beyond the classroom.

Robin Holdforf, a longtime friend and fellow Oak Park fifth grade teacher, called Bodanza “an unwavering cause for good.”

Bodanza started an early morning running club for students and ran a fund drive that collected more than $1,200 for cerebral palsy research. She organized Oak Park’s annual Thanksgiving fundraising drive to buy gift cards for needy families in the district. Enough money was raised last year to provide 22 families with a $150 card for Thanksgiving groceries.

“She’s always looking for ways she can make a difference,” Holdorf said.

Catandella said Bodanza’s legacy is the thousands of children she’s taught and nurtured over the years.

“Her students love her,” Catandella said. "She really makes a connection with the kids and their families. She knows the kids appreciate what she does and that’s what makes the job fulfilling.”

Holdorf, whose classroom is next to Bodanza’s, said she will miss having her longtime friend next door.

“I think what I’ll miss most of all are the daily conversations and the shared laughter,” she said.

In retirement, Bodanza is looking forward to traveling — she’s planning a European vacation with her college roommates — and spending more time fostering dogs for Last Chance Animal Rescue. She hopes to return to Oak Park to mentor first-year teachers.

“I don’t feel like I’m stepping away,” she said of retirement. “My best friends are here. Emotionally, I will always be a part of this community.”

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