Mr. Tsafatinos next to his grand daughter Anna-Maria Alonso, and his grandsons Theodoros-Demetrios and Theodoros.
On Thursday, May 11, 2023, a significant ceremony unfolded at Plato Academy Clearwater campus. Mr. Terri Tsafatinos, a distinguished founding board member of Plato Academy schools, generously gifted a captivating bust of Greek philosopher Plato. The profound impact of Plato’s philosophical contributions on Western thought and his role as the namesake of our nine Plato Academy schools made this donation truly significant.
The Consul General of Greece in Tampa, Mr. Loukas Tsokos with members of Plato Academy Schools Board (Vice Chairman Mr. John Petalas, Secretary Mr. George Antonaklas, Treasurer Mr. Yale Walker), and Plato Academy’s Community Engagement Director, Mr. Michael Alexandrou.
Greek language teacher Ms. Maria-Ioanna Verras recited Plato’s quotes and sang famous Greek songs.
Distinguished guests and school members, including the Consul General of Greece, Mr. Loukas Tsokos, Plato Academy Schools Board members Mr. George Antonaklas, Mr. John Petalas, and Mr. Yale Walker. Also in attendance were Interim Senior Director of Plato Academy Schools Ms. Danielle Cicetti, Mr. Konstantinos Aretis, Director of the Plato Academy Schools Greek Department, administrators and Home Office staff , Ms. Jenny Tsantilas, CEO of Superior Schools, as well as educators, parents, and students.
The ceremony began with the national anthem of Greece sung by students, followed by the USA anthem and Pledge of Allegiance performed by eighth-grade student Ariella Girgis. Mr. George Antonaklas and Mr. John Petalas gave opening remarks and expressed gratitude towards Mr. Tsafatinos for his generosity in establishing Plato Academy schools and promoting Greek language and culture.
The principal of Plato Academy Clearwater, Ms. Sara Sutera, thanked Mr. Tsafatinos for the donation of the bust, highlighting its significance. The Consul General of Greece, Mr. Tsokos, stressed the importance of continuing the success of Plato Academy and establishing a high school in the future, as well as coordinating efforts among multiple schools in teaching the Greek language in the United States.
Eighth grade Plato Academy student Ariella Girgis singing the National Anthem.
Ms. Cicetti acknowledged the positive impact of Plato Academy Schools in the lives of families and educators, becoming synonymous with high standards and strong relationships between educators, students, and parents. Ms. Tsantilas expressed her hope to see Plato Academy Schools grow and become even more successful.
Mr. Tsafatinos shared his journey 20 years ago in establishing a school for teaching Greek language, overcoming difficulties, and his satisfaction witnessing Plato Academy Schools achieving success beyond his expectations. His granddaughter delivered a concise account of Plato’s life and the profound impact of his ideas in today’s world, setting the stage for the highly anticipated unveiling ceremony.
Students from Plato Academy Tarpon Springs impressed the guests as they performed traditional Greek dances.
The ceremony was followed by a reception.