The Port Jefferson School District proudly hosted a community-wide celebration recognizing Earl L. Vandermeulen High School’s designation as a 2025 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. Despite the U.S. Department of Education’s announcement that this year’s formal National Blue Ribbon School recognitions was canceled, the district chose to honor this extraordinary accomplishment and the unwavering dedication of its students, educators, and staff.

Superintendent of Schools Jessica Schmettan and high school principal John Ruggero opened the event with remarks highlighting the school’s commitment to academic excellence and student growth, as well as its vibrant, supportive learning environment. Remarks were followed by presentations of proclamations and certificates from an array of distinguished local and state leaders.

Elected officials attending the celebration included:

*New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay

*Suffolk County Legislator Steven Englebright

*Town of Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich

*Belle Terre Mayor Robert Sandak

*Port Jefferson Village Mayor Lauren Sheprow and Trustees Matthew Franco, Xena Ugrinsky, and Bob Juliano

Additionally, Will Jaskolski attended on behalf of Suffolk County Executive Edward P. Romaine, and Francis Martin represented U.S. Congressman Nick LaLota. The program featured remarks by Board of Education trustee Randi Dewitt and student board member Narin Karakurum, who spoke to the school community’s spirit, perseverance, and shared pride in this milestone.

The celebration concluded with a recessional performance by the Earl L. Vandermeulen High School Chamber Orchestra, adding a fittingly elegant finale to an afternoon honoring educational excellence.

“This recognition, even without the formal national ceremony, is a testament to the hard work and heart of our entire school community,” said Superintendent Jessica Schmettan. “We are immensely proud of Earl L. Vandermeulen High School and all who contribute to its success.”

For more information regarding the Port Jefferson School District and its students’ many achievements, please visit the district’s website or the district's Facebook site.

Click here to view the Port Jefferson School District Celebrates Earl L. Vandermeulen High School’s 2025 National Blue Ribbon of Excellence slideshow.

Four talented Port Jefferson Middle School band students—Talia Affronti, Mason King Davis, Mallory Rickhard, and Andrew Weinisch—proudly represented the district at the SCMEA Day of Tuba and Euphonium Festival.

This annual event brought together tuba and euphonium students from across Suffolk County for an inspiring musical experience. Participants had the opportunity to perform alongside world-renowned tuba virtuoso Hiram Diaz, a distinguished member of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band. Throughout the evening, students collaborated, rehearsed, and performed in an ensemble that highlighted the depth of musical talent within the region.

“The SCMEA festival offers an exceptional experience for our young musicians,” said Dr. Michael Caravello, Director of Music and Fine Arts. “Performing with an artist of Hiram Diaz’s caliber is truly motivating and unforgettable for our students. We are incredibly proud of their dedication and musicianship.”

Orchestra students  from Port Jefferson Middle School and Port Jefferson High School were recently given a special opportunity to attend a recital by world-renowned violinist Midori at the Staller Center for the Arts.

The complimentary tickets were generously provided by Paul Newland, Outreach Director at the Staller Center, whose support helped make this memorable experience possible for the district’s young musicians and their families.

Midori’s performance showcased her mastery, artistry, and profound musicality, offering students a chance to witness live interpretations of significant works from the violin repertoire. The program for the evening included:

* Che Buford – Resonances of Spirit

* Ludwig van Beethoven – Spring Sonata

* Francis Poulenc – Sonata for Violin and Piano

* Clara Schumann – Three Romances

* Robert Schumann – Three Romances

* Franz Schubert – Rondo Brillante in B Minor

“Our students were absolutely inspired,” said Dr. Michael Caravello, Director of Music and Fine Arts. “An artist of Midori’s caliber brings music to life in a way that students never forget. We are deeply grateful to the Staller Center and to Paul Newland for opening this door for our young musicians.”

The performance not only enriched the students’ understanding of violin repertoire and performance practice, but also reinforced the district’s commitment to providing meaningful artistic experiences beyond the classroom.

Date Added: 11/26/2025

Edna Louise Spear Elementary School proudly hosted its first Family Connect Night for the school year, an exciting initiative designed to bring families together for quality time, fun, and connection.

The event invited parents and students to begin the evening by shopping at the PTA-hosted Book Fair, followed by an opportunity to enjoy a variety of board games, card games, and other activities in the All-Purpose Room. The turnout was outstanding, with many families staying throughout the evening to play, laugh, and make memories together.

Family Connect Nights are part of the school’s broader effort to strengthen family bonds and encourage togetherness amid today’s busy schedules. As described in the school’s message to families, these special nights focus on creating time for parents and children to connect, communicate, and enjoy shared experiences. To support this goal, the school has designated one night each month as Family Connect Night, when no homework will be assigned. Instead, the only “assignment” for students is to spend quality time with their families.

“Quality family time is essential to keeping families connected,” said Amy Laverty, Principal of Edna Louise Spear Elementary School. “Through Family Connect Nights, we’re encouraging our students and their families to pause, play, and enjoy one another—something that benefits everyone.”

Click here to view the Edna Louise Spear Elementary School Hosts Family Connect Night slideshow.

Port Jefferson’s Special Education PTA (SEPTA) recently hosted its highly anticipated Annual Color Run, a joyful, family-friendly event that brought together students, families, teachers, and community members in a vibrant celebration of inclusion, wellness, and school spirit.

The event transformed the day into a burst of color and energy as participants ran, walked, and danced their way through clouds of bright, eco-friendly powder. Laughter, cheers, and smiles filled the air, reflecting the strong sense of unity and positivity that define the Port Jefferson school community.

More than just a fun run, the Color Run served an important purpose—raising funds to support programs and initiatives that benefit students with diverse learning needs across the Port Jefferson School District. The proceeds will go toward enhancing educational experiences, promoting inclusion, and providing vital resources for students and their families.

The Port Jefferson SEPTA extends heartfelt thanks to the volunteers, sponsors, district staff, and participants who helped make the event such a success. Their continued support allows SEPTA to create meaningful programs that promote awareness, acceptance, and achievement for all learners. Special thanks to Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay for attending and supporting the event. Her presence helped highlight the importance of community engagement and advocacy for inclusive education.

SEPTA also expresses sincere appreciation to the vendors and community partners whose participation enriched the day’s activities:

* LI FACE – Family and Community Engagement

* FIRST – For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology

* Sensory Table – Activities provided by PJ Middle School Psychologist, Kristen Wendel

* SB CARES! – Stony Brook Child and Adolescent Resource for Emotional Health

* Stony Brook LEND – Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Center

* IDA – International Dyslexia Association

* FAN – Family Autism Network

* LI Mental Health and Wellness

* Local Author – Global Language Reads

Click here to view the Port Jefferson SEPTA Hosts Vibrant Community Color Run to Support Inclusive Education slideshow.

Date Added: 11/18/2025