Delissa Walker-Belfon, a kindergarten teacher at PS/IS 295 in Queens Village, remembers when the school opened its doors 10 years ago. “We started small, with a few grades,” she said. “We didn’t know what to expect.” Now, a decade later, the school has an enrollment of 500 students in grades Pre-K–8.” Walker-Belfon said the school’s family feeling creates a special environment for teaching and learning. “Teachers are really close and we impart that to the students,” she said. On Oct. 27, 600 students, staff and parents gathered on the school grounds for a 10th-anniversary celebration that included face painting, cotton candy, games of chance, a petting zoo and a display of storybook characters created by students. “It’s one of our first big milestones,” said Chapter Leader Colleen Chiauzzi. “Ten years is a big deal. And with everything going on in the world, it’s important to celebrate the good things and thank the teachers and staff for everything they do.” Walker-Belfon credited the first principal, Angela Thompson, who passed away seven years ago, for establishing the strong sense of family at the school. The current principal, Deon LaVigne-Jones, has maintained the same tone, she said. “She’s very supportive of teachers and makes sure we get the professional development we need,” Walker-Belfon said. The celebration also gave students a chance to reminisce about their school, said Karine Stephenson, a special education teacher for the junior high students. “Students talked about memorable school trips and great experiences with teachers they’ve had,” she said.