Students at Kramer Lane Elementary School in Bethpage took a break from classwork to celebrate their connection to Olympic hockey player Charlie McAvoy.

The star defenseman made his NHL debut with the Boston Bruins during the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Now he looks forward to competing in the Olympics as a member of Team USA.

McAvoy’s mother, Jennifer, is a second-grade teacher at the school. Students gathered to learn more about his path from Long Island to the Olympics.

They viewed highlights from his career on the big screen and had the opportunity to ask Mrs. McAvoy some questions.

They also watched a video from McAvoy thanking them for their support.

“I hope you can cheer for me and the rest of team USA as we try to make you guys proud,” he said.