The Port Jefferson Middle School Drama Club dazzled audiences with its spirited production of Aladdin Jr. earlier this month. Featuring a vibrant ensemble of both new and seasoned performers, the show brought to life the beloved tale of Aladdin, an orphan whose kindness and bravery ultimately transformed the kingdom of Agrabah.

Under the direction of Laurel Ormiston and with outstanding music direction by Laurel Zimlinghaus, the production showcased the extraordinary talents of the school’s young performers. Angelina Marsala shone in the title role of Aladdin, capturing the character’s heart and humor. Reese Fallon portrayed Princess Jasmine with poise and strength, while Isla Clements delivered a show-stopping performance as the Genie. Lexi Amtmann brought a commanding stage presence to the role of Jafar, with Ari Gearns providing comedic flair as Iago.

Adding a fresh dimension to the story were characters unfamiliar to fans of the Disney film: June Rhame as Babkak, Leah Thone as Omad, and Scarlett Russo as Kassim. The trio delighted audiences in the vaudeville-style number “Babkak, Omar, Aladdin, Kassim,” blending humor, harmony, and high-energy choreography.

The full ensemble cast sustained a dynamic presence throughout the production, with voices and choreography that sparkled in every musical number. A highlight of the show was the immersive performance of “High Adventure,” which extended beyond the stage and into the audience, creating an unforgettable theatrical experience.

The production team and stage crew, comprised of dedicated high school students Josh Kwon, Kay Moran, Victoria Snaden, Ollie Rhame, Patrick Hutchinson, Ava Romonoyske, Ruairi Hogan, Tori Joseph, Nick Hogan, Evan Keesler-Whitehouse, Brian Hyrycz, and Charlotte Panker, merit special recognition. Their mentorship and technical expertise not only supported the middle school performers but also fostered their own growth and leadership in technical theatre.

Notable production elements infused the show with magic and mystery. Through inventive physical theatre devising, puppetry, and the creative use of finger lights placed both onstage and on the fingers of audience members, the world of Agrabah came alive in imaginative ways. Families of the cast generously contributed their time and talents to constructing and outfitting the vibrant Arabian setting, with special thanks to the Marsala, Russo, Von Oiste, Fraccia, Clements, and Lago families. Technology teacher Brian Chalmers crafted the spectacular genie lamp, adding a memorable centerpiece to the production’s design.

“This production really spoke to how supportive our district’s families and staff are about giving young performers an equitable opportunity to develop a unique skillset and have fun with their peers,” said director Laurel Ormiston. “Thanks to that mindset, the cast was able to do unique, beautiful things that let us celebrate putting our stamp on a Disney classic.”

With its imaginative staging, committed performances, and strong sense of community collaboration, Aladdin Jr. proved to be a shining example of the creativity and dedication thriving within the Port Jefferson school district.

Click here to view the Port Jefferson Middle School Drama Club Presents a Magical Production of Aladdin Jr. slideshow.

Port Jefferson Middle School is proud to announce that eighth-grade student Violet Perez-Flesler has been named the recipient of the Most Motivated Student Award by the Port Jefferson Rotary Club. Violet was presented with the award at the Rotary Luncheon held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

Violet was nominated by the school’s English Language Arts Department in recognition of her outstanding academic achievement, intellectual curiosity, and exemplary character. She was accompanied at the luncheon by her English teacher, Kayleen Everitt, her mother, and Adam Sherrard, Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics. During the ceremony, Mrs. Everitt addressed attendees and shared heartfelt remarks highlighting Violet’s exceptional qualities.

“Violet is an exceptional learner whose curiosity and thoughtfulness elevate every classroom discussion, just by her mere presence,” Mrs. Everitt shared. “She consistently approaches topics with an open mind, carefully considering multiple perspectives before contributing ideas that are both precise and insightful. Her willingness to graciously accept and apply constructive feedback demonstrates maturity well beyond her years and a genuine commitment to growth.”

Mrs. Everitt further emphasized Violet’s extraordinary academic accomplishments, noting that she has earned scores of 100 and 99 across all courses, including high school–level Algebra and Earth Science. “This combination of intellectual rigor, humility, and reflective thinking makes her a model student and a true asset to any learning environment,” she said.

The Most Motivated Student Award recognizes students who exemplify dedication, perseverance, and a passion for learning, and qualities Violet consistently demonstrates both inside and outside the classroom. The entire Port Jefferson Middle School community congratulates Violet Perez-Flesler on this well-deserved honor and applauds her continued commitment to excellence.

Student artists from the Port Jefferson School District’s Edna Louise Spear Elementary School recently had their artwork proudly exhibited at the Port Jefferson Village Center as part of the PJ Village Tree Committee’s “Superpower of Trees” art competition.

The collaborative exhibit showcased creative works from students in grades K–5, highlighting their artistic interpretations of the vital role trees play in the environment and community. An opening reception welcomed students and their families to the Village Center, providing an opportunity to celebrate the students’ creativity and artistic achievements together.

The event reflected a successful partnership between the Port Jefferson School District and the Port Jefferson Village Tree Committee, bringing student art into the heart of the community while promoting environmental awareness through the arts.

Special thanks are extended to elementary art teachers Meghan McCarthy and Riley Mulligan; Director of Music & Fine Arts, Dr. Michael Caravello; and Tree Committee member Holly Fils-Aime for their leadership and dedication in organizing this meaningful and memorable community event.

Click here to view the Edna Louise Spear Elementary School Art Students Unlock the Superpower of Trees slideshow.

Congratulations to the Earl L. Vandermeulen High School Science Olympiad A Team for earning a spot at the New York State Science Olympiad Competition after an outstanding performance at the Eastern Long Island Regional Competition.

Teams from across the region competed on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Hauppauge High School. Port Jefferson was represented by three teams—A, B, and C—among a total of 65 competing teams. The Earl L. Vandermeulen High School A Team placed an impressive 2nd overall, securing advancement to the state level.

The regional competition featured 24 STEM-based events, with medals awarded to the top ten teams in each event. The team’s success reflects months of preparation, collaboration, and dedication across a wide range of scientific disciplines.

The New York State Science Olympiad Competition will take place on March 20–21, 2026, at Le Moyne College in Syracuse, NY. Only eight teams will represent Eastern Long Island at the state competition. Along with Port Jefferson, qualifying schools include Ward Melville, Half Hollow Hills East, The Stony Brook School, Bayport-Bluepoint, West Babylon, Islip, and Smithtown West.

The Science Olympiad teams are coached by high school science teachers Amanda Perovich and Melissa Garcia. “I was stunned and absolutely impressed with all three of the teams this year,” said Coach Perovich. “Their tremendous success demonstrates the amount of teamwork and preparation each person put into their events to contribute to such a successful team.”

Coach Garcia added, “This group of students has worked so cohesively and so hard all year preparing for this competition. We are so proud of their success and cannot wait for the States.”

Science teachers Mr. Maletta, Mr. Gorniok, Mr. Bouchard, Ms. Janusz, and Ms. Fedler accompanied and supported the students throughout the competition. Earl L. Vandermeulen High School congratulates all participating students and coaches on their remarkable achievement and wishes the A Team continued success at the state competition.

Students

Anatomy and Physiology- 7th (A) Isaac Rubenstein & Ronan Moore
Astronomy- 2nd (A) Samuel Perez-Flesler & Kevin Hon

Circuit Lab- 5th (A) Jonah Boerboom & Kevin Hong

Codebusters- 2nd (A) Kenshin Sugimoto, Joshua Kwon, & Jonah Boerboom

Designer Genes- 8th (A) Dasha Zakharova & Narin Karakurum

Dynamic Planet- 2nd (A) Lucas Smirnov & Jonah Boerboom

Electric Vehicle- 4th (A) Mari Fukuto & Ronan Moore

Entomology- 7th (A) Samuel Perez-Flesler & Kenshin Sugimoto

Forensics- 1st (A)Jonah Boerboom & Avery Eisaman

Helicopter- 10th (A) Kieran Casey & Mari Fukuto

Hovercraft- 10th (A) Kieran Casey & Kevin Hong

Machines- 3rd (A) Kevin Hong & Kenshin Sugimoto

Remote Sensing- 1st (A) Lucas Smirnov & Samuel Perez-Flesler

Robot Tour- 5th (A) Tucker Stanton & Kieran Casey, 4th (B) Talin Bajaj & Rowan Casey

Rocks and Minerals- 6th (A) Chris Nam & Tucker Stanton

Water Quality- 3rd (A) Lucas Smirnov & Narin Karakurum, 6th (B) Marco Puopolo & Deia Colosi

The Port Jefferson School District is proud to announce the appointment of Craig Perrino as the new head coach of the Port Jefferson Royals varsity football program.

Coach Perrino is no stranger to the Royals community. He previously served as a varsity assistant coach during the 2025 season, where he quickly made an impact through his leadership, football knowledge, and commitment to student-athletes. Before joining Port Jefferson, Coach Perrino brought his passion for the game to Smithtown West, serving as a varsity assistant football coach.

In addition to football, Coach Perrino has demonstrated a strong dedication to athletic development across multiple sports. His coaching experience includes girls' flag football, wrestling, and baseball, reflecting his belief in developing well-rounded student-athletes and fostering teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. Beyond the field, Coach Perrino is a dedicated health and physical education teacher at Port Jefferson Middle School/High School. In this role, he continues to positively influence students by promoting healthy lifestyles, character development, and academic success.

Coach Perrino’s athletic background includes a distinguished collegiate playing career at Plymouth State University, where he was a three-year starting offensive lineman. He played a key role in leading his team to a Conference Championship in 2017. His leadership and dedication were recognized at the collegiate level when he earned the prestigious Wharton Award in 2019 and was elected to the university’s Leadership Council the same year.

With a strong foundation of leadership, coaching experience, and Royal pride, Coach Perrino is poised to lead the varsity football program into an exciting new chapter. The Port Jefferson School District looks forward to the continued growth and success of Port Jefferson Football under his direction.

 

Date Added: 2/12/2026