http://www.portjeffschools.org Copyright 2013 Syntax Communications Students in grades K-5 at the elementary school participated in the district’s 13th Annual Walk/Run event. Every spring, students participate in a fitness unit called “Walk Across America” as part of their physical education curriculum. Over a period of about five weeks, participants run and walk during their physical education classes, accumulating miles that are tracked and plotted on a map of the United States. The grade levels compete with each other as they travel throughout different states on the map in a friendly race across the country, which ends in California over 3,000 miles away. “Students enjoy a friendly competition and learn about the different states all while building their physical fitness,” said physical education instructor Benjamin Bajus. “The unit culminates with our annual walk/run event, which takes place on a ‘cross-country’ course that follows the perimeter of the school property.” Parents were also welcomed to join and run with their children on the day of the event. The trail run took participants up and down rolling hills, including an exciting wooded trail, and finally finished on the athletic fields across from the school on Scraggy Hill Road. Teachers, staff members and student safety patrol posted along the race route helped direct students through the course. Spectators gathered at the finish line to cheer on runners as they completed their trek. A professional timing company was also at the end line to record the results. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10978 Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT On May 18, the high school boys varsity track team and coach Rod Cawley traveled to Schenectady, N.Y. for the William F. Eddy Championship Invitational. There, the student-athletes put their best foot forward and came home with multiple awards. “The meet was an extremely competitive event featuring teams from throughout New York State,” said Port Jefferson Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics Debra Ferry. “It provided a good tune-up for the team as they head into the divisional, county and state championships.” Top 10 Finishes: 1st Place – James Burke in the mile run with a time of 4:17.4. 3rd Place – Dennis Walsh in the 400-meter run with a time of 0:50.3. 5th Place – Jasper Rubin Sigler in the 200-meter run with a time of 0:23.18. 6th Place – The 4 x 800 relay team of John Albinson, James Burke, Noah Kirschner and Dennis Walsh. 8th Place – Cihad Akkaya in the long jump with a jump of 20 ft. 3 in. 10th Place – Danny Gross in the 110-meter hurdles and 400-meter hurdles. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10981 Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT On May 16, 20 Port Jefferson students in grades 4-6 attended the 6th Annual Suffolk County Elementary Math Tournament, held at Stony Brook University, where they participated in individual and team competitions. “The students were very proud of themselves and everyone had a great time,” said middle school math teacher Megan Ryan. Sixth-grader Feiran Zhang finished in first place overall out of 265 students. Additionally, students Mayu Takeuchi and Annalisa Welinder were awarded trophies for eighth and ninth place, respectively. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10982 Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students in Kristen Poulos and Karen Stamatopoulos’ class were recently given the task of getting to better know their school’s leaders through a creative scavenger hunt. The teachers dispensed clues to help the students figure out who they would be visiting along the way, such as Principal Thomas Meehan, school nurse Joan Tucci, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert and members of the guidance and psychology departments. The children were able to ask the staff questions as they collected their items at each stop. “The students did not know in advance what items they were supposed to collect, but in the end were able to guess that they had gathered all of the ingredients to make s’mores,” said Poulos. “The activity helped them to improve on important language skills such as conversation initiation, following directions and making strong eye contact,” added Stamatopoulos. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10983 Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT On May 10, renowned local historian Bev Tyler visited with fourth-graders at the school library of Port Jefferson’s Edna Louise Spear Elementary to discuss the significance of the Culper Spy Ring and how it helped the Patriots win the American Revolution. The visit served as a culminating activity for a library unit that included several historical fiction books reflective of the time period and also coincided with the social studies curriculum. Tyler, who was dressed as ring member Abraham Woodhull, showed a PowerPoint presentation that included slides of many primary source documents, maps and a code devised for the ring by Benjamin Tallmadge. Students were able to view wax seals used for letter embossing, were taught how to write in code and created spy-worthy envelopes. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10916 Sun, 19 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Please be advised that the side door adjacent to Old Post Roadand the breezeway door located in the front of the high school next to the cafeteria will be used for votersto enter and exit the building on May 21, 2013 from 6:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10881 Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT PORT JEFFERSON SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING NOTICE A special meeting of the Board of Education of Port Jefferson School District will be held on May 21, 2013, immediately following the close of the budget vote, in the cafeteria at Earl L. Vandermeulen High School, for the purpose of acting on the tabulation of vote. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10882 Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT To view budget information, click here. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10802 Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT On May 10, members of the elementary school’s fifth-grade orchestra and fifth-grade select choir performed at Mather Hospital in Port Jefferson in celebration of National Hospital Week. The children’s melodies filled the hospital’s courtyard for parents, visitors and hospital staff to enjoy. The orchestra, led by Dr. Vanessa Salzman, performed first, treating guests to a number of musical selections, including eight solo performances. The select choir, directed by Jessica Pastor, followed with songs from their recent performance at the Spring Concert, including the upbeat Latin American song “Oye.” The American Hospital Association’s National Hospital Week was begun in 1921. This year’s theme, “A Guiding Light for Changing Times,” serves as an opportunity for community members to recognize and appreciate the dedicated professionals of health care. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10805 Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT On May 14, at the monthly Port Jefferson Board of Education meeting, exemplary students from the district were recognized for their accomplishments in the fields of history, science, technology and cosmetology. Members of the Board and administration began the evening by presenting elementary school student Sophie Blumenthal, a second-grader in Darlene Wells’ class, with a certification of achievement for her Brookhaven National Laboratory Science Fair project submission. Her experiment addressed the question of whether or not the color of nail polish affected its longevity. Students in grades K-6 from more than 100 Suffolk County schools take part in the fair every year. Approximately 470 projects are submitted, and of those, only the top 10 are selected from each grade level. Next, fourth-grader and SEAL (Studies Enriching Academic Learning) student Lucas Welinder of Kristen Boney’s class was formally recognized for his qualification to participate in the National History Bee’s National Championship. Lucas will be representing the district at the competition in Atlanta this June. Finally, two high school students, Leanne Goldstein and Nicholas Heide, were presented with certificates commemorating their induction into the National Technical Honor Society. Nicholas was awarded entry for his outstanding performance in the field of aviation and professional pilot training and Leanne for her outstanding performance in the area of cosmetology. The NTHS is committed to providing quality recognition for outstanding students in career and technical education. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10827 Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT On May 8, the elementary school hosted its Spring Vocal Concert and Art Show. Upon arrival, attendees were able to walk through the building and view the awe-inspiring displays of artwork that lined hallways from floor to ceiling and filled classrooms. Creations by students in Richard Anderson’s and Nancy Randazzo’s art classes showcased a wide array of media, including papier-mâché, pottery, watercolors and sculptures. Guests were even able to view a stop motion film that depicted a car race in a miniature landscape made entirely of candy. After viewing the incredible displays, guests were invited to attend the musical portion of the evening led by directors Andrew Frey and Jessica Pastor. The concert began with performances by the fifth-grade select choir, who sang selections of American, South African and Latin American backgrounds, including “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “Siyahamba,” a South African freedom song. Guest pianists Elizabeth Chun and Karen Xie performed next, transitioning into the second half of the show, which featured members of the fifth-grade chorus. The group concluded the night with a moving and uplifting performance of “Touch the Sky” featured in the Disney film “Brave,” during which students held up posters that told of their hopes and dreams for the future. The evening was a true testament to the immense amount of student talent and potential. The NAMM Foundation recently named the Port Jefferson School District a Best Community for Music Education in America for the seventh consecutive year. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10773 Mon, 13 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT On May 9, the middle school hosted its Spring Concert and Art Show. Middle school art teacher Stacey Schuman organized an outstanding display of artwork created by middle school students who used media such as chalk, charcoal and pastels to create spectacular pieces. Oversized candy bars and sticks of chewing gum made for a fun display alongside exhibits in the styles of pointillism, ancient Egyptian art, cartooning, American folk art, cave art and zodiac sign art. The musical performances for the evening began with the seventh- and eighth-grade orchestra led by Christian Neubert. The group performed five pieces for family, friends and faculty, with highlights including selections from the “Harry Potter” films. Shortly after, the seventh- and eighth-grade band took the stage. Led by director Edward Pisano, the student-musicians impressed attendees with a variety of songs. Concluding the concert was the seventh- and eighth-grade chorus, directed by Jason Crockett and accompanist Jeanette Cooper. The group’s performance featured familiar songs such as Eric Clapton’s “Tears in Heaven” and Katy Perry’s “Firework.” The NAMM Foundation has named the Port Jefferson School District a Best Community for Music Education in America for seven consecutive years. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10780 Mon, 13 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Earl L. Vandermeulen Academic Team will be on tonight’s episode of “The Challenge.” It will air on MSG Varsity (Cablevision Channel 14) at 6:30 p.m. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10733 Sun, 12 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The district would like to congratulate elementary school student Lucas Welinder, a fourth-grader in Kristen Boney’s class and SEAL student in Kimberly Pelkonen and Paige Lohmann’s class, who has qualified to participate in the National History Bee’s National Championship. Lucas’ historic journey to success began in November 2012, when he ranked as one of the school’s top four performers in the Intramural Bee. His high score advanced him to the second round of competition – the Online Regional Qualifying Exam in January 2013. The regionals, held in Yonkers, N.Y. and attended by the top 120 scorers in each of the state’s 35 regions, consisted of three preliminary rounds of head-to-head buzzer competition, followed by a final championship round. There, Lucas was named a top champion, qualifying him for advancement to the nationals, which will be held in Atlanta on June 1. “Of the thousands of students at schools across the country who participated in the National History Bee, only a select few are invited to advance to Atlanta to the nationals,” said Lohmann. “Lucas and 50 other elementary contestants from all across the country will compete against each other on their impressive history knowledge.” Lucas is one of six students from the New York region. There will be a preliminary round of multiple-choice questions followed by a “buzzer” round, making for an all-day event. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10734 Sun, 12 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT On May 9, high school senior athlete Holly Vulpis joined with her parents, counselor and members of the district administration to sign a National Letter of Intent. Holly, who has received an athletic scholarship, will be playing women's lacrosse for Niagara University in Buffalo, N.Y. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10708 Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Port Jefferson School District was featured in Newsweek’s America’s Best High Schools of 2013, with Earl L. Vandermeulen High School placing 546th in the nation, 82nd in New York State and 10th in Suffolk County. The rankings highlight the best 2,000 public high schools in the nation — the ones that have proven to be the most effective in turning out college-ready grads. The list is based on six components that are self-reported by each school: graduation rate (25 percent), college acceptance rate (25 percent), AP/IB/AICE tests taken per student (25 percent), average SAT/ACT scores (10 percent), average AP/IB/AICE scores (10 percent) and percentage of students enrolled in at least one AP/IB/AICE course (5 percent). Although similar to last year’s list of Best High Schools, the methodology behind this year’s list is slightly different. Instead of considering the number of courses offered, which is limited even for the most ambitious high school curricula, the percentage of students enrolled in an Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate or Advance International Certificate of Education course was weighed. "We are very pleased with this recognition of our outstanding academic excellence,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert. “It is a direct reflection of the efforts of our students, faculty, staff and parents. Placement on this noteworthy list is something the community can take great pride in." In April, the Washington Post released its annual list of America’s Most Challenging High Schools in the United States. Earl L. Vandermeulen High School was ranked 339th out of 1,933 schools nationally, placing it 38th in the Northeast, 28th in New York State and third in Suffolk County. Port Jefferson has improved 14 spots in the state from 42nd in 2011. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10288 Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The elementary school recently hosted its sixth annual Instrument Petting Zoo. On May 3, members of the high school instrumental ensembles traveled to the elementary school to give the third-graders an opportunity to get an up-close experience with band and orchestra instruments. “Students were able to hear the instruments performed and ask questions about each instrument, as well as experience the excitement of holding many of them for the first time,” said Director of Music and Fine Arts Michael Caravello. “In the coming weeks, the same third-graders will be selecting the instrument they would like to begin learning in the fall.” The district would like to thank music teachers Christine Creighton, Mark Abbonizio and Dr. Vanessa Salzman for organizing this event. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10672 Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Spring Concerts Broadcast LIVE over the Internet All of our Spring Concerts are being broadcast live over the internet. You will need the Real Player to view the LIVE video stream. It can be downloaded by following the link below: Click HERE for the Real Player Download Click HERE to start the LIVE Stream on your Computer with the Real Player Click HERE to start the LIVE Stream on your iPod/iPhone/iPad Archived video will be available the morning after the concerts on each of the building's home pages under the announcements section. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10622 Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Family, faculty and members of the administration came together on May 2 to honor the newest inductees of the school’s chapter of the National Junior Honor Society. The middle school chamber ensemble, led by Christian Neubert, provided musical accompaniment throughout the program, during which students in the seventh and eighth grades were recognized for their achievements. The evening began with a warm welcome to all from middle school principal Antonio Santana, who told parents that they should be “extremely proud” of all that their children have accomplished. He noted that these accomplishments were “nothing short of remarkable,” adding, “Not only do they manage to maintain a 92 grade point average throughout all of their academic courses, but they also demonstrate characteristics of leadership, scholarship and character in their everyday activities.” Current NJHS President Virginia Albinson spoke next, addressing and congratulating her peers. “Your hard work and dedication has paid off,” she said. “The Port Jefferson School District gives its students many opportunities to show their merits – whether they be accelerated classes, clubs or sports – and you are here because you have taken those opportunities and made them into something great.” The service continued with NJHS adviser Michelle Landetta leading the ceremony of the candle lighting, where inductees lit their own individual candles from one of the five pillar candles representing scholarship, service, leadership, character and citizenship. During this time, inductees were also presented with a certificate, pin and official NJHS membership card. Additionally, an honorary National Junior Honor Society Award was granted to building representative Bonnie Kelsch for her service to the district and local community. Concluding the evening was Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert, who advised the new inductees to “take advantage of all the opportunities that you have available...become very active in the school, become very active in your community, and continue to exemplify all these wonderful traits that you have displayed thus far.” Grade Eight Members: Raquel Accardo, Virginia Albinson, Mary Alter, Nicholas Andriani, Lev Bershadsky, Jacklyn Brown, Sarah Buck, Hunter Buehler, Anthony Buono, Erin Burke, Nicole Callahan, Sean Cavanagh, Katie Chorao, Jillian Colucci, Emma D’Amario, Anna Desan, Vicki Fan, Jamie Gallo, Piper Heide, Xinyi Hong, Nicholas Kafeiti, Samara Kelson, Gillian Kenah, Michael Kennedy, Sarah Kirchner, Isabella Koutsantanou, Isabel Lebron, Courtney Lewis, Richard Liebert, Brian Mark, Neal Masone, Eve Milusich, Juliana Napoli, Clare O’Connor, Alessandro Perinuzzi, Siobhan Petracca, Alexander Preston, Chiara Rabeno, Anita Rescia, Arunima Roy, Vanessa Rubenstein, Amanda Sarubbi, Corinne Scannell, Emma Schoepflin, Aidan Schretzmayer, Chandler Sciara, Charles Scott, Bethany Seagraves, Alexander Senesi, Daniel Strehle, Victoria Sund, Elisa Ueno, Alexa Wakefield, Camryn Ward, Ji Won Woo, Mikayla Yannucci and Amelia Zamek. Grade Eight Inductees: John DiCarlo, Edward Finkelstein, Brandon Kafeiti, Julia Postol, Ryan Righi and Rebecca Stafford. Grade Seven Inductees: Allison Abbonizio, Samantha Acampora, Julie Albergo, Abigail Bossert, John Collins, Joseph Collins, Eli Doyle, Isabella Engelhardt-Apple, Nicholas Gertz, Jasmin Govits, Emma Gutmann, Olivia Hayde, Leland Held, Tamara Idir, Ibuki Iwasaki, Aidan Jordan, Connor Kaminska, James Kennedy, Cezanne Lojeski, Matthew Luca, Thomas Mark, Louis Martin-Deprez, Jack McGorry, Quinn Nenninger, John O’Connor, Max Okst, Matthew Pifko, Trey Pisano, Hailey Reale, Michael Ruggiero, William Scannell, Brianna Scarda, Michael Smith, Luigia Than, Eric Tischer, Alexandria VanOverberghe, Olivia Wennerod and Zoe Zeniou. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10657 Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT On May 4, fifth-grade students from the elementary school select choir performed at the 2nd Annual Port Jefferson Boater's Maritime Festival. While visitors enjoyed the array of boats, demonstrations and other exhibits along the harbor front, the fifth-graders, led by their music teachers Jessica Pastor and Andrew Frey, performed selections from their upcoming spring vocal music concert. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10606 Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT On April 9, high school language students in Nicole Pennino-Costa’s Italian class attended an "Afternoon in Italy" cooking class at the A la Carte culinary school in Lynbrook. Students worked together at the full-service, state-of-the-art culinary center to create five Italian dishes, including bruschetta and tiramisu. They also learned about regional dishes from northern and southern Italy. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10611 Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT High school 10th-grader Ryan Burgert recently received a silver medal at the Al Kalfus Long Island Math Fair finals competition for his project "Calculating the Sine and Cosine of Any Angle using Numeric Methods.” Ryan first entered into the fair on March 26 at Suffolk Community College, where he presented his project to various judges and competed against other Long Island students. He then qualified for the finals, held on April 26 at Hofstra University, where he was awarded a silver medal. “Ryan is very excited about his accomplishments, as am I,” said math teacher Winifred Kuemmel. “He is looking to pursue another mathematical topic of interest for the upcoming fair next school year.” Hofstra University, the Suffolk County Mathematics Teachers Association, the Nassau County Mathematics Teachers Association and the Nassau County Association of Mathematics Supervisors sponsor the competition. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10613 Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The calendar for the month of June 2013 has been revised for both the Earl L. Vandermeulen High School and the Port Jefferson Middle School. First, the last day of classes for High School students will be on Thursday, June 6th rather than Friday, June 7th. This date was changed to allow two days of final exams prior to the administration of the NYS Regents exams. The other significant item is that the last day of classes for Middle School students will be on Tuesday, June 11th followed by five days of final exams. The revised calendar for June has been inserted into the online district calendar and is posted in the announcements section of the website. Please contact me if you have any questions. Sincerely, Maureen Hull Executive Director of Curriculum & Instruction http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10577 Sun, 05 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT High school Leo Club officers Danny Gross and Jake Cavanagh were honored at the 2013 Civic Engagement Program’s annual ceremony held on May 1 at Mount Sinai High School. Students, teachers and parents from various parts of Suffolk County joined together to share their accomplishments with U.S. Rep. Tim Bishop. The program, developed by Rep. Bishop in 2005, encourages students to take on leadership roles in their communities. The Leo Club, under the direction of co-advisors Brian Chalmers and Kristine Vaccaro, was recognized at the Civic Engagement Program ceremony for its dedication to the local community. During the 2012-13 school year, members participated in the Port Jefferson Dickens Festival and organized projects such as “Blizzard Bags” for Meals on Wheels, a blood drive for the New York Blood Center, a three-mile walk for the March of Dimes, the American Cancer Society’s “Daffodil Days” fundraiser, and food drives and bake sales for Island Harvest. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10546 Fri, 03 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Attention! The Port Jefferson UFSD will be applying Roundup ProMax® to the perimeter and interior edges of the track for the control of weeds on Monday, May 6, 2013 from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. If a second application is necessary it will be made on Tuesday May 7, 2013 from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. as needed and only if necessary due to weather. For further information contact the Port Jefferson UFSD Operations and Maintenance Office at 631-791-4261. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10552 Fri, 03 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10529 Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT On April 29, Earl L. Vandermeulen High School art teacher Lynne Edsall received the 2013 Alumni Recognition Award at the SUNY Stony Brook Student Arts Festival. Edsall, who teaches studio in art, Advanced Placement studio art/portfolio and digital photography at Port Jefferson, was recognized for her commitment and years of dedication in the arts as a former graduate of SUNY Stony Brook. Congratulations to Ms. Edsall on her achievement! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10516 Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Click HERE to start part 1 of the Archived Video on your Computer Click HERE to start part 2 of the Archived Video on your Computer You will need the Real Player to view the LIVE stream on your computer. It can be downloaded by following the link below: Click HERE for the Real Player Download http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10453 Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The district would like to welcome Lisa Scheffer, Ed.D. to the Port Jefferson school community. At a public meeting of the Board of Education in March, Dr. Scheffer was appointed executive director of pupil personnel services, effective June 1, 2013. “I am very much looking forward to my new position and am excited to get to know the staff, community and families on a personal level,” said Dr. Scheffer. “I bring with me much experience and am eager to provide leadership and stability to the pupil personnel services department.” Dr. Scheffer is certified in school district administration as well as school counseling. Her educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in psychology from New York University, a Master of Science in school counseling from the College of New Rochelle, a professional diploma in school district administration from the State University of New York at Stony Brook, and a Doctorate of Education in educational administration, leadership and technology from Dowling College. Dr. Scheffer comes to the district with a tremendous amount of experience, most recently as the director of pupil personnel services for the Sag Harbor Union Free School District, a position she has held since 2006, and as an assistant professor at Long Island University since 2011. She has served as an assistant coordinator to the Bilingual/ESL Technical Assistance Center at Eastern Suffolk BOCES, a project director and guidance counselor at Western Suffolk BOCES Wilson Tech, and an adjunct professor of undergraduate and graduate psychology at Five Towns College. Furthermore, she served as a bilingual guidance counselor for the Brentwood UFSD and the Lavelle School for the Blind, a NYSED 4201 school. Dr. Scheffer will be replacing Carmen Iannotti who worked on an interim basis for the 2012-2013 school year. Please join us in welcoming Dr. Scheffer to the district, where she will surely be a wonderful addition. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10479 Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT On April 24, the Earl L. Vandermeulen High School chapter of the National Honor Society inducted 44 new members. Organized in 1952, the district chapter is currently led by teachers Michel Krivosta and Laurie McMillen. The high school chamber ensemble, prepared by Director of Music and Fine Arts Michael Caravello, provided musical accompaniment throughout the evening. The ceremony began with a greeting from high school principal Dr. Matthew Murphy, who encouraged honorees to be proud of their accomplishments, not only in academics but also with everything they have done to serve the community. During the school year, current members of the National Honor Society have participated in several service activities such as letter-writing campaigns to service men and women overseas, raising money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, serving as guides to parents on Back-to-School nights and peer tutoring. “Let me be the first to encourage you to continue to strive to be the best in everything you do,” said Murphy. “Keep your burning desire to achieve constantly alive.” Next, the group’s advisers and chapter president Julia Woznicki welcomed students, faculty and attendees before the ceremony of the pin address, given by David Kahn, DDS, a 2002 Earl L. Vandermeulen graduate. Dr. Kahn emphasized the importance of acknowledging, understanding and following the necessary processes to achieve one’s goals. “There are some people who have said to reach for the stars, and if you don’t make it you will land among the clouds,” said Kahn. “I say to reach for the stars without a plan is just wishful thinking. If you can develop the right plan you will be able to name your star.” The induction continued with the ceremony of the emblem, ceremony of the candle-lighting and the roll call of inductees, all led by current honor society members. Five colored candles represented the pillars of the National Honor Society – knowledge, character, scholarship, leadership and service. Inductees lit their own individual candles from one of the pillar candles representing the ideal that they choose to most closely follow. The ceremony concluded with a reciting of the society’s pledge, as well as remarks from Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert, who thanked parents for their continued support of the school and of their children. He then commended the honorees for their hard work and dedication. “You’ve done a wonderful job of grasping the offerings that have been made available to you, rising to the challenges that your teachers have placed before you and really demonstrating the excellence that makes us proud to be a part of this school community.” Inductees: Aaron Accardo, John Albinson, Corbin Apple, Megan Augsbach, Justin Bove, Alexander Bruno, Natalie Buck, Elizabeth Ciancarelli, Katherine Colantuoni, Kirsten Crovello, Tyler D’Accordo, Melissa Darling, Kelli DiTomasso, Jonathan Famularo, Richard Finkelstein, Marcus Glover, Cassandra Gray, Danielle Grier, Daniel Gross, Katherine Gwydir, Ghada Hassan, Nicholas Heide, Evan Kelly, Eric Keresztes, Rachel London, Gabriella Martinez, Leah Neiman, Romain Popescu, Francesca Racanelli, Olivia Racanelli, Hunter Reiter, Chiara Repetti-Ludlow, Alberto Rescia, Steven Rose, Jasper Rubin-Sigler, Elijah Sanders, Maria Simmerling, Joshua Skula, Gabrielle Stark, Mairead Swords, Cailyn Teran, Kent Ueno, Demitria Ulino and Shannon Walsh. Present Members: Nicholas Aiello, Julia Altebrando, Luca Amarca, Kevin Anderson, Blake Bohlen, Jonathan Chun, Connor Crovello, Emma Crugnale, Nicholas D’Auria, Gabriel Davis, Caitlin Dennehy, Yufan Ding, Jaclyn Dombroski, Amber Edley, Jessica Eichinger, Erik Esposito, Chan-Wei (Jerry) Fan, Leanne Goldstein, Zachary Graziano, Katherine Hoey, Justin Jones, Emilie Jourdain, Gregory Klesaris, Todd Lewis Jr., Jessica Loehr, Miriam Marx, Julianna Pollina, Dana Prohovnik, Gerard Racanelli, Alexandra Raso, Patrick Rubenbauer, Amanda San Roman, Hannah Sheinkopf, Constantine Spentzos, Rebecca Spinner, Sruthi Sridevan, Kelsey Van Houten, Dennis Walsh, Chase Watkins, Sandi Woodhead, Julia Woznicki and Jason Zimmermann. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10489 Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT In an effort to boost morale during recent New York State assessments, elementary school special education teacher Jacqueline Gandolfo implemented a positive, creative activity with students in AmyJean Castaldo’s third-grade class. Students chose favorite inspirational quotes and inscribed them on plain T-shirts, which they decorated and wore during testing. “Wearing the shirts helped us to believe in ourselves and be more confident,” said one student. Concurring students added that reading the motivational quotes encouraged them to work even harder and made them feel “less afraid” about the testing. “Plus, we all look fabulous!” exclaimed another. The children’s shirts emphasized the power of perseverance, self-confidence and resilience, qualities that they surely displayed post-assessment. “I am so proud of them and all that they do,” said Gandolfo. “They work so hard and are very proud to wear their shirts.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10490 Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students at the elementary school celebrated Earth Day in many special ways this year. On April 19, Melissa Martin’s kindergarten class invited parents and relatives to partake in a pre-Earth Day classroom celebration. The children worked together on activities which included tie-dying t-shirts, creating entries for a class “ecology” book, a nature walk of the beautiful on-campus trails, the decoration of earth window-clings and even a Smart Board exercise of virtual recycling. The students also participated in the design and creation of persuasive Earth Day posters, encouraging others to be more conscious of their impact on the environment. Incorporating recently learned persuasive writing techniques, the posters focused on topics such as pollution, litter, recycling and the importance of “doing your part” to help the earth. On Earth Day, April 22, Kristen Poulos and Karen Stamatopoulos organized a unique earth-themed event in which students made “dirt pudding.” Complete with gummy worms, the students meticulously followed recipe instructions that turned Oreos, chocolate pudding and whipped cream into a decadent dessert resembling dirt. The activity served as a kick-off to the week’s discussions about ways to make the earth a cleaner and happier place. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10461 Sun, 28 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT High school students Danielle Grier, Leah Neiman, Alberto Rescia and Kent Ueno were recently notified that their preliminary scores on the 2012 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test met the requirements needed to enter the 2014 National Merit Scholarship Program. These students’ scores rank them among the top 50,000 highest performers with a selection index of 203 or higher. More than 1.5 million students participated. Of the 50,000 high scorers nationwide, approximately 16,000 will be named National Merit Program Semifinalists and 34,000 will be Commended Students. The district will be notified of the students’ standings in September 2013. Semifinalists will have the opportunity to continue in the competition to be considered for one of the approximately 8,300 National Merit Scholarships. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10462 Sun, 28 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Dear Parents, As you know, Mr. Peter Esposito will be leaving the Port Jefferson School District to pursue an opportunity in a neighboring district at the end of this month. I am sure you join me in thanking Mr. Esposito for his contributions to Port Jefferson and wish him well in his new position. As a member of our community, I am certain he will remain active in our schools. At the public meeting of the Board of Education held last night, Mr. Leonard Bozza was appointed as Interim Pre-K to 12 Assistant Principal/Director of Technology. Mr. Bozza will serve in this capacity until a full-time, permanent replacement can be identified. Our screening process is already underway, with the goal of having a permanently appointed candidate in place for September. Mr. Bozza previously served as the Interim Principal of Earl L. Vandermeulen High School during the 2005-2006 school year. Mr. Bozza's extensive experience included ten years as the principal of Longwood High School in Middle Island. His knowledge and skill set will be an asset to our students, faculty and staff. Mr. Bozza will begin on Monday, April 29. Please take an opportunity to "welcome him back to Port Jefferson" at one of our many upcoming activities. Regards, Dr. Ken Bossert Superintendent of Schools http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10409 Wed, 24 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT On April 20, the district hosted the fourth annual Health & Wellness Expo sponsored by the Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce. More than 50 exhibitors filled the high school gymnasium with an array of booths dedicated to all levels of health, wellness and fitness and provided important information for planning and meeting health and wellness needs. The event kicked off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, in which Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert participated, commemorating the Village of Port Jefferson officially claiming April 20 as the district’s “Health and Wellness Day.” Members of the middle school seventh- and eighth-grade orchestra, led by teacher Christian Neubert, performed classical music selections as attendees walked about the fair. Additionally, contest winners from the elementary and middle school had their posters displayed for viewing. The expo received supplementary sponsorship from local organizations including St. Charles and Mather hospitals, the Times Beacon Record, Bethpage FCU, Jefferson’s Ferry Lifecare Community and Moloney’s Funeral Home. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10422 Wed, 24 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The middle school Science Olympiad team recently proved that anything is possible when you put your mind to it. The team, which placed fourth at the Suffolk County Regional competition in March, participated in the New York State competition held at Syracuse University. Team coach Adam Bouchard, along with Deborah Hagmeyer and Laurie McMillen, accompanied the students on their trip. The Port Jefferson team competed against top schools from 11 regions across the state and placed 26th out of 137. “They worked hard and learned scientific concepts on a high school and college level,” said Bouchard. “Everyone enjoyed being in Syracuse, which was a beautiful and accommodating campus, and we hope to return next year to build upon our team’s successes.” Medal Winners: 1st Place – J.R. Knapp and Chandler Sciara for Helicopter 5th Place – Xinyi Hong and Arunima Roy for Place Endangered, Exotic, Extinct Top 20 Finishes: 8th Place – Eli Doyle and Connor Kaminska for Reach for the Stars 12th Place – Andrew Lioio and Neal Masone for Place Meteorology 16th Place – Xinyi Hong and Arunima Roy for Forestry 18th Place – Eli Doyle and Connor Kaminska for Mission Possible 20th Place – Justin Julich and Andrew Lioio for Water Quality Competing Team Members: Nick Caltagirone, Spencer Cona, Anna Desan, Eli Doyle, Xinyi Hong, Thomas Hull, Justin Julich, Connor Kaminska, Michael Kennedy, J.R. Knapp, Isabella Koutsantanou, Jefferson Koutsantanou, Andrew Lioio, Neal Masone, David Moir, Ryan Righi, Arunima Roy, Aidan Schretzmayer, Chandler Sciara and Ben Zaltsman. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10390 Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students on the high school Robotics Team competed in the Long Island FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Regional Robotics Competition on April 4-6 at Hofstra University. The organization’s mission is to encourage young people to be science and technology leaders by engaging them in exciting, mentor-based programs that build science, engineering and technology skills that inspire innovation and foster well-rounded life capabilities, including self-confidence, communication and leadership. “Students and their mentors spent six long weeks – working up to six days a week – constructing a robot from raw materials such as aluminum and plexiglass pieces combined with digital electronic components, electric motors, cameras, transmissions, wheels and a host of other robotic parts,” said club adviser Brian Chalmers. “The mentors really enjoy having the opportunity to share their knowledge with other student team members.” The team’s android performed strongly during the competition on all assigned tasks, which included shooting Frisbees onto a small platform atop a 10-foot-tall pyramid. The robot’s drive team coordinated the machine’s functions. Overall, the team placed within the top 20 out of 50 schools from around the state. Furthermore, senior members Michael Colucci and Greg Klesaris were awarded FIRST scholarships of $24,000 from Adelphi University and $30,000 from Stevens Institute of Technology, respectively. Michael will receive $6,000 annually for four years and Greg will receive the same amount over the course of five years should they choose to enroll in those universities. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10397 Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Earl L. Vandermeulen High School Chapter 2172 of the Tri-M Music Honor Society hosted its sixth annual honors recital and induction on April 17. The evening began with a welcome from high school Principal Dr. Matthew Murphy and was followed by a recital of 17 instrumental and vocal performances by students, including pieces by Mozart, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Bach. The evening continued with a brief address by Director of Music and Fine Arts Michael Caravello, who thanked parents for supporting and nurturing their children’s music education and highlighted the wealth of talent present. “To dedicate and share your music with others is truly a gift,” he said. Family, friends and faculty looked on as continuing members were recognized and new inductees were honored for their efforts. Requirements needed to become a member of Tri-M are based on the society’s five points of distinction: scholarship, character, cooperation, leadership and service. The induction marks an individual’s successful completion of a term of candidacy. “A Tri-M member is one who sets a good example, is always willing to assist those students who are striving to better themselves in the music department, and is always one who remembers that it is a real honor to carry these responsibilities,” said Tri-M adviser Christine Creighton. “Whether it’s going to local hospitals during the holidays or assisting the district hosting the Mid-Island Band Festival this year, their dedication and commitment to music serves as an example to others of what can be accomplished with hard work, self-discipline and a lot of practice,” said Caravello of the society’s members. Addressing them, “I hope that all of you continue your passion and love for music over the years and take it with you into college, adulthood and for the rest of your lives.” Inductees: Caroline Biondo, Taylor Carley, Jonathan Chun, Andie Fortier, Rachel Geiser, Steven Geiser, Christopher Graci, Ju Mi Ha, Margo Martin-Deprez, Alden Mohacsi, Kayley Okst, Chiara Repetti-Ludlow, Alberto Rescia, Morgan Sakovich, Lara Sarubbi and Gabrielle Stark. Senior Members: Nicholas Aiello (secretary), Jonathan Chun, Gabe Davis (vice president), Zachary Graziano, Michaela Griffin (co-president), Grace Napoli (historian), Dana Prohovnik, Gerard Racanelli (treasurer) and Rebecca Spinner (co-president). http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10374 Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Latin Students Place at Certamen Earl L. Vandermeulen Latin students, led by teacher Anne Algieri, performed at the Latin Certamen held at Stony Brook University on April 9. The Certamen is a fast-paced contest testing students' knowledge of Latin grammar, vocabulary, word derivations, Roman life, history, mythology and literature. Latin students from schools throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties compete at their respective levels. Port Jefferson teams placed within the top three in every level in which they participated. Level Two Winners: 1st Place – Ginny Albinson, Thomas Hull, Eric Kilgore and Billy Witrock Level Three Winners: 3rd Place – Neil Alvarez, Ryan Burke, Noah Davis and Natasha Zaliznyak Advanced Level Winners: 3rd Place – Jonathan Chun, T.J. Lewis, Alberto Rescia and Kent Ueno http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10289 Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT On April 7, members of the high school Interact Club made their annual trip to Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck located on the shores of Kaler’s Pond in Center Moriches. There, students participated in a “spring cleanup” of the grounds, which included raking leaves, mulching, planting flowers, painting and preparing dorms for campers. Also in attendance were members of the Port Jefferson and Rocky Point rotary clubs and members of the National Junior Honor Society. Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck’s mission is to help children and young adults ages 6 to 21 with both physical and developmental disabilities achieve equality, dignity and maximum independence through a safe and quality program of camping, recreation and education in a summertime environment. “It is a special place where children can experience firsthand the pleasures that an active life has to offer,” said club adviser Sarah Ogden. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10290 Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT On April 6, Annalisa Welinder, a sixth-grade student, performed a violin recital at the Juilliard School of Music's Paul Hall as part of the pre-college division. Proud family members were in attendance, as well as members of the Port Jefferson sixth-grade orchestra and teacher Dr. Vanessa Salzman. The district congratulates Annalisa on her outstanding musical achievement. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10291 Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Earl L. Vandermeulen mathematics teacher and math team adviser Dennis Christofor recently announced the results and district winners of the American Mathematics Competition and the Suffolk County Math Teachers Association Contest. In February, high school students participated in the American Mathematics Contest 10 and the American Mathematics Contest 12. Both tests contain 25 multiple-choice questions and are 75-minute examinations in secondary school mathematics containing problems that can be understood and solved with pre-calculus concepts. In March, students in both the high school and middle school participated in the annual SCMTA competition. Levels E and J are generally for accelerated students, while Level IV is for pre-calculus students. Their scores represent their standing among students across Suffolk County. AMC 10 Winners: 1st Place – Noah Davis 2nd Place – Ju Mi Ha 3rd Place – Ryan Burke AMC 12 Winners: 1st Place – Kent Ueno 2nd Place – Romain Popescu 3rd Place – Alberto Rescia SCMTA Level E Winner: 2nd Place – Feiran Zhang SCMTA Level J Winners: 2nd Place – Annalisa Welinder 3rd Place – Mayu Takeuchi SCMTA Level IV Winner: 2nd Place – Ryan Burke http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10292 Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT PORT JEFFERSON SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING NOTICE A special meeting/work session of the Board of Education of Port Jefferson School District will be held on April 23, 2013, 7:00 p.m., in the Large Group Room at the Elementary School for the purpose of taking action on two personnel items and for presentations on Common Core Standards and AIS. The meeting will be called to order at 6:00 p.m. and the Board will enter executive session. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10243 Tue, 16 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Peter Esposito, director of technology and assistant principal for grades pre-K through 12, will be leaving the district this school year and was honored at this month’s Board of Education meeting. At the March meeting of the Board, Esposito tendered his resignation so that he may pursue an opportunity in a neighboring district. Since his appointment as teacher by the district in 2001, Esposito has also served as robotics team coach, adviser to the Science Olympiad team, science, math and technology club leader, soccer coach, baseball coach and dean of students. Additionally, he has served as the district’s “energy czar” for the past three years, bringing substantial savings to the district through his efforts. Board of Education President Kathleen Brennan shared her sentiments and thanked Esposito for his many years of service and for the “care and concern for the students whose lives you have touched.” Brennan first came to know Esposito through the school’s Robotics Club, to which he dedicated a tremendous amount of time, energy and effort. “He really helped to foster the program and encouraged students to remain interested in robotics,” she said. “I am constantly impressed and amazed that whenever I am at the school, Pete is always there,” said board trustee Mark Doyle, who remarked on the “innumerable” evenings and weekends that Esposito had dedicated to the school and its well-being. The district’s “energy czar,” as he was referred to by fellow faculty and staff members, even went as far as walking around the buildings, turning off lights and monitors as part of his constant effort to conserve energy. In addition to the many accolades from the board trustees, members of the Port Jefferson community attended and spoke publicly to show their tremendous support and gratitude. One parent emphasized Esposito’s ability to earn the trust and respect of the students, saying, “Those are two things you don’t typically hear a teenage boy talk about.” “He is a community member, educator and valued member of the staff,” said Assistant Superintendent for Business Sean Leister. “Everyone will truly miss him and all that he brings to the district.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10222 Sun, 14 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Beginning on April 16, students in grades 3 through 8 in our school district and all across New York State will be taking state tests in English language arts. The following week, those students will be taking state assessments in mathematics. The tests are an annual spring ritual for our schools and our students. But this year’s tests will be different. For the first time, the state assessments will be based on the new Common Core Learning Standards which have been adopted by New York, 44 other states, and the District of Columbia. Leaders of the State Education Department have said families and teachers should be prepared to see lower scores on the grades 3 through 8 assessments as a result of this transition to the new standards. State Education Commissioner John King has said, “The new tests will reflect the Common Core Standards, so the tests will be more challenging. Students will be asked to read more difficult texts, to use evidence to support their arguments, and to perform multiple-step math problems.” Commissioner King stresses, “The number of students meeting or exceeding Common Core grade-level expectations should not be interpreted as a decline in student learning or a decline in educator performance.” The short video at the link above, from the State Education Department, explains the Common Core Standards and how state assessments are changing. You can also watch a very brief video explanation of how the new standards are expected to affect test results here. In broad terms, the intent of the new standards is that students who meet them should be ready to succeed in what they attempt after school – college study, a job, or both. The Common Core requires schools and students to drill deeper into key topics, instead of briskly covering many topics. They aim to push students to develop critical thinking skills in a real world context. They require instruction in each grade to build more deliberately than in the past upon skills learned in the grade before. A wealth of resources to help you understand the demands and opportunities presented by the Common Core can be found in the State Education Department’s Common Core Toolkit for Parents and Families, available at engageny.org. You can also use the resources on our website by visiting the webpage for the Department of Curriculum and Instruction here, as well as the resources below. • Frequently Asked Questions • Common Core State Standards Initiative • Common Core "Shifts” for Students and Parents A presentation of the Common Core shifts is scheduled for the Board of Education workshop on April 23, 2013. If you would like additional information please contact me at mhull@portjeff.k12.ny.us or 631-791-4291. Sincerely, Maureen Hull Executive Director of Curriculum & Instruction http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10172 Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT A special meeting of the Board of Education of Port Jefferson School District will be held on April 17, 2013, 5:00 p.m., at the District Office, for the purpose of voting on the Eastern Suffolk BOCES 2013-2014 administrative budget and Board trustees. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10177 Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10178 Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT On March 20, Earl L. Vandermeulen High School senior athletes Joseph Booker and Blake Bohlen joined with their family members, coaches, counselors and members of the administration to sign National Letters of Intent. Joseph will be playing baseball for Franklin Pierce University in New Hampshire and Blake will be playing soccer for Fordham University in New York. Both students received athletic scholarships. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10126 Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT An intellectual and creative collaboration between middle school teachers Michelle Landetta and Stacia Schoen provided students in Landetta’s class with a real-world activity in a familiar setting. The creation of a class “store” gave participants the opportunity to utilize their math skills by “purchasing” and “selling” store items as they acted out the roles of customer and cashier. Every student was able to purchase the items of their choice and complete transactions in their roles. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10045 Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9980 Tue, 02 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Friends, family and faculty of the high school academic team will be able to tune into MSG Varsity (Cablevision Channel 14) on April 8 at 6:30 p.m. to watch the group's second-round performance on “The Challenge.” The competition, against Smithtown West, is part of the show’s award-winning academic quiz for high schools that features the best and brightest local students from across the tri-state area. Jared Cotter, former FUSE TV host and a popular “American Idol” semifinalist, serves as moderator, asking competing high school teams questions based on their knowledge of history, arts and literature, current events, math and science. High school senior Zachary Graziano captains the team, which includes senior Jonathan Chun, junior Alberto Rescia and freshman Erik Kilgore, with senior Gabe Davis and junior Leah Neiman as alternates. These representatives were chosen for competition based on their high performance during weekly after-school group meetings with other students. Earl L. Vandermeulen students have participated in “The Challenge” for more than 10 years and took first place the year the contest began. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9998 Tue, 02 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Candidates for Board of Education Residents of Port Jefferson School District interested in running for the Board of Education, please contact the District Clerk at (631)791-4221 http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9956 Mon, 01 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Middle school students in Kayleen Moran’s eighth-grade English class and high school students in Philip Giannusa’s Holocaust elective course came together this month for a two-part, in-depth look at the Holocaust. The two teachers collaborated to produce an interdisciplinary unit that explored and explained the distressing World War II event. On March 22, Holocaust survivor Werner Reich spoke to district students, faculty, staff and administration during an unforgettable presentation about his life, the Holocaust and what it means to be a just person. Reich began the assembly by defining the Holocaust and what he describes as “the good people who did nothing” throughout time, referring to the individuals, political leaders and countries that knew of the atrocities that were happening but did little or nothing to help those suffering. He stressed the importance of defending personal beliefs, helping those in need and acting on what you know is right. “Don’t wait for other people to act – be the first,” said Reich. “Ask yourself what the right thing to do in a situation is and then do it.” The presentation outlined Reich’s personal experience as a teenager who survived the Terezín, Auschwitz II-Birkenau and Auschwitz I concentration camps. “I am lucky to have survived,” he said. “It is my responsibility to ensure that nothing like this ever happens again.” Reich’s main message, “just people are just people,” affirmed that the average person can save a life simply by speaking up. He urged listeners to follow four simple steps when faced with an adversity: judge the situation, understand the problem, solve and take action, creating the acronym JUST. “Indifference kills,” stated Reich. “Do not tolerate bullies or allow them to silence you.” At the assembly’s conclusion, Middle School Principal Antonio Santana echoed Reich’s sentiments, saying, “It’s not enough to just be a good person. Our differences do not give us the right to treat people differently; they are there for us to embrace because they are what enrich our lives.” Earlier in the month, Moran’s students, who had been studying Eliezer Wiesel’s Holocaust novel “Night,” were given a guided tour through a Holocaust museum in the middle school/high school library that was created and constructed by students in Giannusa’s class. “The concept of genocide is almost unfathomable to the students,” said Moran. “Phil and I are using this as an opportunity to break it down so that it better relates to everyday situations.” A poster exhibition of WWII images lined the staircase leading to the museum, helping visitors to attain the proper mindset before entering and providing a visualization of the facts and statistics that were being read to them throughout the program by the upperclassmen, who acted as tour guides. Inside, black drapes, candles, low lighting and opera music contributed to the museum’s setting, lending a serious yet respectful tone. Viewers were walked through stations detailing life in the concentration camps, the widespread Nazi destruction, survival and Hitler’s Final Solution, the most deadly phase of the Holocaust. The driving message throughout the presentation likened acts such as bullying and oppression to the Nazis’ means of wiping people of their individuality and identity through acts of humiliation and stereotyping. At the conclusion of their tour, students filled out pledge cards describing their personal vows to fight against genocide. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9916 Tue, 26 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Members of the elementary school student government, led by advisers Dana St. Pierre and Michele Smith, hosted a food collection to benefit the Outreach program at Infant Jesus R.C. Church. The student leaders did their best to make a difference in the local community by collecting nonperishable food items as well as toiletries to help keep the food pantry’s shelves stocked. “Our mission is to try and make a difference around us in any way we can, starting with our small ‘world’ – meaning what occurs in and around our school,” said Smith. “We also want to make a difference in the bigger ‘world,’ the community we live in, and lastly, the entire world around us.” This year’s food drive correlated with the school’s Scraggy Olympics, an event where teachers and parents compete in sports and games. The student government asked attendees to donate nonperishable items and drop them in collection bags for the team they were supporting. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9894 Mon, 25 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to Courtney Lewis and Corinne Scannell of the girls varsity basketball team for receiving All-League recognition from the Suffolk County Girls Basketball Coaches Association. In addition, senior Rachel London was honored as an All-Academic and All-County recipient. The team had a great season with a league record of 9-3 and made it to the first round of playoffs. Excellent job, girls! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9895 Mon, 25 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Middle school student-musician Mayu Takeuchi has recently been named a recipient of the Suffolk County Music Educators Association Burnhart Rydzeski Scholarship, one of two New York State Music Festival at SUNY Oneonta scholarships. The gifted sixth-grader will receive full tuition to attend the New York State Summer Music Festival, a six-week program that challenges its students to achieve the highest levels of musicianship. A letter from SCMEA President Patricia Isenberg to Mayu states, “The committee reviewed numerous applications and was quite impressed with your musical background, experiences and talent. They are pleased to award you this scholarship for the purpose of continuing your music education this summer.” As part of the application process, Mayu was required to write about her musical experiences and desire to attend the summer program. Notes listing her honors – including New York State School Music Association ratings and Long Island String Festival Association and SCMEA accomplishments, as well as a letter of recommendation by elementary/middle school orchestra teacher Vanessa Salzman – accompanied the application. Mayu was presented with her award at the SCMEA Division I East All-County Concert on March 10 at Sachem East High School. Mayu, who has been playing the violin since the first grade, says she is looking forward to making new friends through music at the camp this summer. “I am excited for everyone to play together and to just have fun.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9896 Mon, 25 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Elementary school students jumped to their feet and scored a winning basket in the fight against heart disease and stroke during their annual Jump Rope for Heart and Hoops for Heart programs. The event, a collaborative effort between the Parent Teacher Association and the physical education department, raised $6,000 for the American Heart Association. “The kids love it and it’s a lot of fun for everyone,” said physical education instructor Françoise Schachner, who has been participating in the program since joining the district in 2001. “The district has been a supporter of this organization and event for decades.” Students in grades two and three participated in the “Jump Rope” program, while fourth- and fifth-graders participated in the “Hoops” program. Faculty and members of the administration, including Principal Thomas Meehan and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert, stopped by to cheer the students on and show support. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9865 Sun, 24 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT On March 21, Italian language students in grades 10 through 12 attended the bilingual spectacular "Sette Mondi" (Seven Worlds) at the Queens Theater in Flushing. The interactive musical took viewers on a journey through seven magical worlds and seven different themes and adventures, one for each day of the week. There, students were able to take a closer look at Italian culture and language through music. Teachers Greg Gorniok and Nicole Pennino-Costa accompanied the trip. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9873 Sun, 24 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Eleven members of the middle school Environmental Club attended the Coastal Steward Adopt-A-Beach cleanup of the eastern side of Port Jefferson Harbor. The event, sponsored by the Village of Belle Terre, is part of the International Coastal Cleanup effort that has removed more than 320 tons of debris to date. Participants Gavin Barrett, Emma Gutmann, Leland Held, Tamara Idir, Miles Kaming-Thomassi, Patrick Kleaka, Matt Luca, Abbie Murphy, Matt Murphy, Michael Smith and Jordan Suarez, along with parent Kevin Kleaka and club adviser Peter Burawa, were provided with water, garbage bags, gloves, sun block and snacks for the day’s work. “The students scoured the beach and adjoining upland, pulling and carrying the flotsam and jetsam from the area,” said Burawa. “Plastic bags and wrappers were the most time-consuming to clean up, as they would wrap around trees and branches, some of which had thorns.” After five hours of hard work, nearly three tons of debris had been collected. The students are making plans to join Coastal Steward on future cleanups and helping with the program’s oyster restoration project. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9882 Sun, 24 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT On March 18, members of the district attended the 12th annual School District Awards Dinner hosted by SCOPE Education Services, a not-for-profit, private organization permanently chartered by the New York State Board of Regents to provide services to school districts. Throughout the evening, service awards were presented in the areas of school board, community, support staff, teacher and administrator service recognizing individuals for their contributions to education. The Port Jefferson honorees included elementary school teacher and high school drama director Anthony Butera for his service to teaching, Port Jefferson Mayor Margot Garant for community service, middle school Principal Secretary Kathy Hanley for support staff service and Edna Louise Spear Elementary School Principal Thomas Meehan for service to administration. Also in attendance were Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert, Assistant Superintendent for Business Sean Leister, Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction Maureen Hull, Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics Debra Ferry, Board of Education President Kathleen Brennan and board trustees Dr. Dennis Kahn, James Laffey and Vincent Ruggiero. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9853 Thu, 21 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT School Open for all Students: Friday, March 22 and Monday, April 1 Schools Closed: March 25-29 for spring recess http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9795 Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The district is pleased to announce that for the seventh consecutive year, it has been ranked among the NAMM Foundation’s “Best Communities for Music Education” in America. The national program has put the spotlight on the 307 selected school districts with outstanding commitment to music education. “What makes receiving this national recognition so rewarding is that through the combined efforts of our students, parents, music teachers and school administration, this award is shared by the entire Port Jefferson community,” said Director of Music and Fine Arts Michael Caravello. “Together we can count ourselves among the best in the country due to our strong commitment to our children's music education.” The Best Communities designation recognizes collaborative, from-the-ground-up efforts of teachers, administrators, students and parents who continually work to keep comprehensive music education as an integral part of the core curriculum. Nearly 2,000 schools and school districts participated in the survey, an increase of 366 percent from 2012, making this a record-breaking year for participation. The program requires each school and district to detail funding, staffing, commitment to standards and access to music instruction. “Our music program is one that provides students with a wide variety of programs, performances and courses, as well as the high school’s chapter of the Tri-M Music Honor Society,” said Caravello. “In addition,” he continued, “Port Jefferson Village offers unique opportunities for students to perform at and attend historic venues, theaters and other village centers during the many music and art festivals scheduled throughout the year. Our students’ musical endeavors have always been welcomed and supported by the larger community.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9827 Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The middle school Science Olympiad team came in fourth place at the Suffolk County Regional Division B Competition, held at Candlewood Middle School in Dix Hills. Facing off against 35 teams from 22 school districts, students in grades six through nine competed in events that tested their skills in earth science, biology, chemistry, physics and engineering. The team, led by middle school science teacher Adam Bouchard, will be competing on April 12 and 13 at the New York State Science Olympiad Competition at Syracuse University. Medal Winners: 3rd Place – Xinyi Hong and Arunima Roy for Endangered, Exotic, Extinct 3rd Place – Aidan Schretzmayer and Chandler Sciara for Helicopter 3rd Place – Neal Masone and David Moir for Dynamic Planet and Mousetrap Vehicle 3rd Place – Eli Doyle and Connor Kaminska for Reach for the Stars 3rd Place – Anna Desan and Isabella Koutsantanou for Rocks and Minerals 3rd Place – Justin Julich and Andrew Lioio for Water Quality 4th Place – Thomas Hull, Michael Kennedy and J.R. Knapp for Experimental Design 5th Place – Spencer Cona and Ben Zaltsman for Metric Mastery http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9832 Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT A recent collaboration by elementary school teachers Kristen Poulos and Karen Stamatopoulos resulted in a successful and tasty lesson for their students. The teachers, who bring their classes together on a weekly basis, put together an Irish soda bread-making activity in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. “The students love working on recipes,” said Poulos. “It’s also a perfect way for them to focus on working as a team by following specific directions together.” Students were given a recipe and were supplied with all the ingredients necessary to make the bread. Each child took turns adding, mixing and pouring the ingredients until the process was complete. Their hard work, diligence and cooperation paid off when they were surprised with a pre-made loaf of the soda bread, just like the one they had created. “Irish soda bread is phenomenal!” exclaimed one student, who seemed to speak for his classmates, all of whom enjoyed their festive snack and delighted in a job well done. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9796 Tue, 19 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The holiday season of giving may be months behind us, but students at the high school have been pressing on with their service work for the less fortunate. On March 14, members of the Habitat for Humanity club and advisers Sarah Ogden and Deirdre Filippe traveled to Bellport to work on a house as part of a build initiative. “Our two projects at the house were sheetrocking and cleaning up the property to prepare for soil,” said Ogden. The club, comprised of 14 students, raised money to help fund the build through their Thanksgiving cheesecake sale in addition to other bake sales held throughout the year. Just two days later, members of the Interact Club, also led by Ogden and Filippe, volunteered their Saturday and joined with the Port Jefferson Rotary Club for a food collection at a local supermarket. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the team worked tirelessly to gather items that were later donated to the Open Cupboard, the food pantry at Infant Jesus R.C. Church. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9806 Tue, 19 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the participants of the 29th annual American Association of Teachers of Italian Poetry contest, held at SUNY Old Westbury on March 8. Hunter Buehler, Connor Crovello, Benjamin Kluender and Chiara Repetti-Ludlow did an outstanding job on their performances. Special acknowledgments to Gaspar Cello and Frederick Johs, both of whom won second place in their respective levels, as well as Alexander Rebic, who won an honorable mention for his participation. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9770 Mon, 18 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students from throughout the district were recognized by their coaches and members of the administration at this month’s Board of Education meeting. Elementary school principal Thomas Meehan began the meeting by presenting certificates of achievement to winners and top qualifiers of the SCRIPPS Spelling Bee, National History Bee, National Geographic Bee and the Stock Market Game. Fourth-graders Aaron Held, Ameen Khan, Lucas Welinder and Peggy Yin and fifth-graders Gavin Chambers, Dylan Dugourd, Christine Iasso and Guiseppina Than were all commended for their keen intellect and skill. Following these recognitions, varsity wrestling coach Michael Maletta and assistant coach Ian McEwen presented a certificate and framed photograph to Matteo DeVincenzo, the district’s first All-State finalist in 25 years. Matteo was recently named runner-up in the 99-pound weight class at the New York State Wrestling Championship. Coach Maletta spoke to Matteo’s endless determination, dedication and resilient attitude in addition to his accomplishments as a scholar-athlete. Concluding the recognitions for the evening was boys varsity track coach Rod Cawley, who presented James Burke with a certificate commemorating his accomplishments and attested to James’ reliability, perseverance and promise as an outstanding athlete. James holds the New York State record as an eighth-grader and also as a ninth-grader in his key event, the mile. He also holds part of the state record for the intersectional relay. Furthermore, James recently became Port Jefferson’s first athlete to win a New York State championship in indoor track. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9758 Sun, 17 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The high school’s Science Olympiad team claimed a spot within the top 30 at the New York State Science Olympiad Competition, which was held at Monroe-Woodbury High School in Central Valley. Students from 51 school districts competed in 25 different events over the course of the day. Coaches Michel Krivosta and Laurie McMillen and teacher Adam Bouchard accompanied the team and had nothing but positive things to say about their strong ability. “Just being there made them all winners,” said McMillen. “Everyone had a good time, learned a lot and is looking forward to next year’s competition.” Top 15 Finishes: 7th Place – Ryan Burke and Eric Kilgore for Fermi Questions 7th Place – Alberto Rescia and Natasha Zaliznyak for Remote Sensing 11th Place – Eric Kilgore and Alberto Rescia for Geologic Mapping 13th Place – Danielle Grier and Kent Ueno for Chemistry Lab 13th Place – Zachary Graziano and Leah Neiman for Designer Genes 15th Place – Ryan Burke and Kent Ueno for Elastic Launched Glider The team placed third at the Suffolk County Regional competition in February. The district has been participating and earning top spots in this event for over 25 years. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9759 Sun, 17 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Fourth-grade SEAL (Studies Enriching Academic Learning) students at the elementary school participated in the Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision science competition, which encourages K-12 students to imagine what technology might be like in the future. In the case of one student team, Peggy Yin and Sapphire Perera, the people of tomorrow will be using the iHeat, a portable, earth-friendly heater for the iPhone. Inspired by the events of Superstorm Sandy and those victims left without electricity and heat for weeks, the pair thought it wise to design a small heater that could charge with natural resources. “Since many people have iPhones, we thought it would be great if they can pull out their phone and adjust the temperature to fit their needs if they are too hot or cold,” the students stated in their write-up. The team invented, designed and prepared a 15-page research document that earned them the distinction of honorable mention, signifying their place among the top 10 percent of all ExploraVision projects submitted to the competition. “This is an incredible accomplishment,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert. “Our fourth-graders ranked higher than hundreds of their high school counterparts!” Honorable mention winners receive a certificate of achievement and a unique prize. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9699 Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students at the elementary school have been taking a hands-on approach to learning about the weather using their new wireless weather station equipment. The purchase of the station was made possible with grant money from the Royal Educational Foundation awarded to the district as a result of a grant application submitted by teacher Darlene Wells. “This is a great extension to our science unit on weather,” said Wells, who teaches the second grade. “The children have learned about states of matter, the water cycle, clouds, rainbows, types of storms and tools meteorologists use to generate a forecast.” The weather station is available for use to all classes, and student “weather reporters” are encouraged to participate regularly by reading information off the station to relay to their classmates. “The children now have a deep understanding of the information provided by the weather station,” Wells continued. “We analyze the weather at the end of each week and also at the end of the month. They have learned a great deal and have enjoyed being meteorologists.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9675 Wed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Comedy, Murder, Mystery, "Whodunit" Musical. Friday, March 15 @ 8:00 p.m. Saturday, March 16 @ 8:00 p.m. Sunday, March 17 @2:00 p.m. ClickHERE for Flyer http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9625 Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Please read the attached Letter from the Superintendent Regarding Athletics http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9632 Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Thirty-six of Port Jefferson’s music students were selected to participate in the Suffolk County Music Educators Association All-County Festival. All three divisions rehearsed on March 2, 8 and 9 at Mount Sinai, Mattituck-Cutchogue and Bellport high schools and performed concerts on March 9 and 10 at Sachem East High School. In addition, congratulations to middle school music teacher Christian Neubert for serving as chairperson for the SCMEA Division 2 East Orchestra. Division 1 (Grades 5/6) Selections: Irem Akkaya Catrina Alvarez Sinan Ates David Bershadsky Emily Bossert Grant Calendrille Sam Caltagirone Elizabeth Chun Sophia Cipriano Dylan Dugourd Erica Graci Grace Grugnale Miles Kaming-Thanassi Aidan Kaminska Jocelyn Lebron Hyun jin Lee David Rotunno Aileen Schretzmayer Phalina Sciara Mayu Takeuchi Juliette Vacirca Taylor Williams Division 2 (Grades 7/8) Selections: Aidan Jordan James Kennedy Chris Mannarino Trey Pisano Anita Rescia Arunima Roy Xinyi Wong Ryan Worrell Division 3 (Grades 9/10) Selections: Taylor Carley Parris Garant Danielle Goldstein Dunia Karzai Aldren Mohacsi Yuuki Shibutani http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9635 Mon, 11 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT On March 8, members of the high school string chamber ensemble performed at an art auction fundraiser held at the Old Field Club hosted by the Royal Educational Foundation. During the preview session of the auction, attendees enjoyed the classical works of Bach, Brahms, Mozart and Vivaldi performed by Jonathan Chun (cello), James Frierson (cello), Chris Graci (bass), Michaela Griffin (viola), Ibuki Iwasaki (violin) and Gabrielle Stark (violin), led by Director of Music and Fine Arts Michael Caravello. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9636 Mon, 11 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Eighth-grade students in Matt Garofola’s math class at the middle school have been working on an activity based on the concept of finding the slope of a line. As part of their challenge, students set out around the school building to measure staircases to find the steepest and shallowest ones. The activity demonstrated the implementation of the new Common Core State Standards and highlighted a high level of student engagement. “Students needed to apply their knowledge to a real-life situation, requiring them to engage in the new standards of mathematical practice,” said Garofola. Enthusiasm for the activity led to the creation of a contest to find the steepest and shallowest staircases outside of school. Students Svenya Drees and David Moir were the winners, finding the shallowest and steepest staircases in their basement and backyard, respectively. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9642 Mon, 11 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT On March 1, students at the high school participated in the second annual Dodge to Cure Diabetes fundraiser. The event, which was organized by senior class officer Justin Jones and members of the Student Organization, raised $12,000, an increase from last year’s $8,000, to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and their mission to cure, treat and prevent Type 1 diabetes. “Justin is the soul behind the event,” said Student Organization adviser Sarah Ogden. “He started this fundraiser last year in honor of his sister, a 10th-grader, who has juvenile diabetes.” Nine teams of 10 students competed for the coveted championship trophy, which was won by team T1D (Type 1 diabetes) for the second year in a row. The night ended with a game of staff and parents versus the winning team in which T1D was also victorious. “This event is the best part of the year by far,” said Justin. “Every student loves to participate, and we raise a lot of money and awareness, too.” In attendance were teachers, administrators and parents, all there to support and cheer on the teams. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9599 Sun, 10 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT There will be practice today from 3:10-5:15 p.m. in the wrestling room, unless the district cancels after school activities. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9580 Fri, 08 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Caroline Strauss, a sophomore, was recognized at this year's annual Scholastic Art and Writing Awards for the Northeast Region-at-Large, which included Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. Caroline's digital photographs, titled "Parallel Pond" and "Girls of Summer," were among the 15 percent of regional entries to receive the award of honorable mention based on the judge's criteria, which included originality, technical skill and sense of vision. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9539 Tue, 05 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT On behalf of the Port Jefferson Union Free School District, Plant Facilities Administrator Fred Koelbel is pleased to announce that Earl L. Vandermeulen High School, Port Jefferson Middle School and Edna Louise Spear Elementary School have all earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star certification. This signifies that their buildings perform in the top 25 percent of similar facilities nationwide for energy efficiency and meet strict energy efficiency performance levels set by the EPA. To earn the Energy Star certification, Port Jefferson UFSD took the following actions: Worked with LIPA to conduct a districtwide energy audit. Partnered with the energy conservation company Cenergistic to implement a revenue-neutral Energy Conservation Program. Established and maintained target building temperatures for both the school day and after hours. Turned off unnecessary lights and utilized available daylight. Utilized ARRA grants to implement $337,000 in lighting upgrades, replacement and controls, at no cost to the district. Utilized a $400,000 ARRA grant to install two photovoltaic systems, a 48-kilowatt system on the roof of Edna Louise Spear Elementary School and a 12-kilowatt system on the roof of the maintenance building adjacent to the Scraggy Fields, at no cost to the district. Installed high-efficiency pumps. “These steps would not have been possible without the dedication of energy manager Peter Esposito, who spearheaded Cenergistic’s Energy Conservation Program, high school/middle school head custodian Joan Lyons and her staff, elementary head custodian Gary Kenyon and his staff, and the students and staff of the Port Jefferson UFSD,” said Koelbel. As for the district’s collaboration with Cenergistic, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert said, “Our partnership [with Cenergistic] has been tremendously beneficial. The company’s expertise, training and support have completely changed our culture from one of unintentional energy waste to intentional energy savings. As a result, we have saved money by reducing consumption and we have demonstrated good stewardship of the environment. We have a new culture that will benefit Port Jefferson UFSD for years to come.” While the district has finished the paid contract term of its program and no longer shares savings with Cenergistic, the company’s service to Port Jefferson UFSD will continue on an as-needed basis to help ensure that the program continues to build on its 22 percent reduction in energy consumption and a cost avoidance of over $419,000 through September 2012. Cenergestic consultants will continue to work with the system on conservation techniques and data analysis as requested, providing ongoing training and support free of charge. “Port Jefferson UFSD has successfully implemented Cenergistic’s organizational behavior-based approach to energy conservation,” said Dr. William S. Spears, chairman and founder of Cenergistic. “The leadership, along with other administration, faculty and staff members, deserves recognition for their commitment to being good stewards of taxpayers’ dollars and the environment. By sustaining the program, Port Jefferson UFSD will continue to save money for the benefit of students and taxpayers.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9460 Sun, 03 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT On March 1, the middle school students came together to benefit a good cause at their annual Talent Show. Under the guidance of English teacher Allison Giannusa, more than 30 singers, dancers, musicians, stand-up comedians and crewmembers displayed their talents in a fantastic 22-act performance for friends and family. Principal Antonio Santana even made a surprise appearance to begin the show. All proceeds, including canned goods, were donated to Friends of Karen, a nonprofit organization that works to provide emotional, financial and advocacy support for children with a life-threatening illness and their families in order to help keep them stable, functioning and able to cope. “When I started the show eight years ago, a colleague recommended sending the proceeds to Friends, and we have worked together ever since,” said Giannusa. Since its inception, the show has raised over $10,000 for the organization, $1,300 of it coming from this year’s admission and raffle ticket sales. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9471 Sun, 03 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Interact Club has been busy spreading warmth and kindness to others this winter through multiple fundraisers and awareness projects. Students kicked off the season by collecting jeans for the “Teens for Jeans” campaign, run by Dosomething.org, the country’s largest nonprofit for young people and social change. Members successfully collected over 60 pairs of jeans, all of which will be distributed to local homeless shelters and outreach programs by popular youth clothing company Aéropostale. The Interact also sold pink and purple hearts for $1 each to school staff, family members and friends during their “Gift of Life” collection. Over $200 was raised and will be donated to the Gift of Life Foundation to help fund heart surgeries at Stony Brook University for underprivileged children from second- and third-world countries. Additionally, the students hosted a bake sale to sponsor Port Jefferson graduate and former Interact Club President Madison Crowe in her Relay for Life participation at Ithaca College. “The club felt that it was important to support her in her continued endeavors as a civic-minded student,” said club co-adviser Sarah Ogden. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9476 Sun, 03 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT As of March 11, 2013: The Community Fitness Center will beopen Monday - Thursday from 5:00 - 7:00 (When School is OPEN) Community Swim will beseparated for family andlap swim: FAMILY SWIM -6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Monday and Wednesday's. LAP SWIM - 7:30 - 8:30 Monday and Wednesday's After-school for “ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS ONLY” will be Wednesdays from 3:30-4:30 http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9438 Fri, 01 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT During a luncheon on Feb. 19, members of the Port Jefferson Rotary Club awarded middle school student Aidan Malinowski with their February Most Motivated Student of the Month award. The sixth-grader, who was nominated for the honor by his teachers, was chosen on the basis of academics, work ethic, responsibility and overall character. Aidan received the highest scoring rank among his peers. “He’s kindhearted, works really hard and always does the right thing,” Aidan’s reading teacher Charles Ruoff said of him. “He achieves high grades and has many good friends.” When asked to speak to the Rotary Club at the luncheon upon receiving his award, Aidan simply said, “Thank you very much. I always try my best.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9445 Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT PORT JEFFERSON SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING NOTICE A special meeting of the Board of Education of Port Jefferson School District will be held on March 5, 2013, 6:00 p.m., at the District Office, for the purpose of entering executive sessionto discussa personnel matter, and for any other business as may be needed. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9398 Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT SUNY Stony Brook undergraduate percussion instructor James Beauton visited students in the district this week to teach about various percussion instruments and the methods behind playing them. Beauton, who began his teaching career at the age of 17, reached out to the district in a personal effort to cultivate more interest in music among students. “High school was the time in which I was most influenced by music, so I feel like it’s only appropriate to talk about it with students this age,” said Beauton. “I like what I do, and I have the resources and the time, so it’s perfect.” During his visit, Beauton discussed and performed improvised, partially improvised and composed music, demonstrating their differences on the drum, snare drum, marimba and shekere, an African rattle. Perhaps the most impressive part of the lesson was his passionate performance of “Prim,” a piece composed for the snare drum by leading Icelandic composer Áskell Másson. “Music is such a great way to express your feelings,” said Beauton. “Don’t be afraid to experiment with your instruments and explore different types of music. Find out what music can do for you.” He continued by emphasizing the importance of studying music theory and maintaining persistence throughout the learning process. “If you want to become better at what you’re doing, ask someone for help and don’t give up, even if things become difficult. Always be a student. Always be open to trying new things.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9405 Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The high school’s Science Olympiad team, along with coaches Michel Krivosta and Laurie McMillen, took third place at this year’s Suffolk County Regional Science Olympiad competition on Feb. 23. A total of 51 schools participated in the contest, held at Ward Melville High School. Teams participated in multiple events that pertained to various scientific disciplines, including anatomy, physics, geology, astronomy, mechanical engineering and technology. The district has been participating and earning top spots in this event for over 25 years. Medal Winners: 1st Place – Ryan Burke and Eric Kilgore for Fermi Questions 1st Place – Eric Kilgore and Alberto Rescia for Geologic Mapping 2nd Place – Julia Kharzeev and Natasha Zeleznyak for Forestry 3rd Place – Zachary Graziano and Danielle Grier for Water Quality Top 10 Finishes: 4th Place – Julia Kharzeev and Alberto Rescia for Disease Detective 4th Place – Ryan Burke and Kent Ueno for Elastic Glider 4th Place – Kelsey Van Houten and Julia Woznicki for Write It/Do It 5th Place – Zach Graziano and Leah Neiman for Designer Genes 5th Place – Evan Lahey and Kent Ueno for Material Science 6th Place – Danielle Grier and Kent Ueno for Chemistry Lab http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9406 Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to Port Jefferson wrestlers Matteo DeVincenzo and Ryan Woodward and Coach Michael Maletta for participating in the New York State Wrestling Championships. For the first time in 25 years, the district has an All-State wrestler; Matteo is New York State's runner-up in the 99-pound weight class. Thank you to all involved for representing Port Jefferson in a positive manner. We are proud of you! GO PJ NATION! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9344 Mon, 25 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT High school Advanced Placement Biology students recently put their scientific knowledge into action during a class trip to the Biotechnology Teaching Laboratory at the Center for Science and Mathematics Education (CESAME) at Stony Brook University. There they participated in two hands-on labs that required students to utilize their observational, analytical and scientific engineering skills. “In the bacterial transformation lab, the students inserted a plasmid, a small piece of DNA, that contained a gene for antibiotic resistance and a jellyfish gene for florescence into E. coli bacteria,” said teacher Laurie McMillen. “The bacteria glowed when viewed under a black light, which proved that the students had successfully inserted the plasmid into the bacteria.” Students were directly involved in the experimental design and the designation of controls. The student-scientists also participated in a restriction enzyme analysis lab in which they tested and evaluated four factors that can affect the function of restriction enzymes. The procedures included the use of agarose gel electrophoresis and restriction enzymes’ (EcoRI, HinDIII and BamHI) digestion of DNA. A presentation of results to classmates helped participants compare experiences and results. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9326 Sun, 24 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9231 Tue, 19 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT In celebration of Valentine's Day, middle school students from Stacey Schuman's art club created hand-designed valentines for their classmates. On the morning of Valentine's Day, students were surprised with an individualized valentine taped to their locker. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9220 Mon, 18 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Four students from Edna Louise Spear Elementary School recently qualified for the 2013 National History Bee Regional Finals. After attaining the highest scores among classmates during the qualifying Intramural Bee on Nov. 30, fourth-graders Lucas Welinder and Peggy Yin and fifth-graders Gavin Chambers and Giuseppina Than advanced to the Online Regional Qualifying Exam, which took place in January. All four students placed in the top 120 scores within the region and will be continuing on to the Regional Finals in New York City this April. The National History Bee rewards students for their existing knowledge and encourages them to learn more about history. This is the first year that the competition has been open to elementary school students. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9221 Mon, 18 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the 11 students who were selected to participate in festivals of the Long Island String Festival Association. The Elementary/Middle School Festival performance was held at Northport High School on Jan. 21 and the Junior/Senior High School Festival was held at Ward Melville High School with a concert on Feb. 5. Students from across Suffolk County were selected on a competitive basis, with NYSSMA scores as the main criteria in addition to teacher recommendations. The district congratulates the following selected string students: fifth-graders Emily Bossert and Elizabeth Chun; sixth-graders Hyun Jin Lee and Mayu Takeuchi; seventh-graders Ibuki Iwasaki, James Kennedy and Trey Pisano; eighth-grader Anita Rescia; ninth-grader Danielle Goldstein; 10th-grader Dunia Karzai; and 12th-grader Jonathan Chun. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9222 Mon, 18 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Re-posted 2/13/2013 Please open the following link to read the letter regarding calendar changes for the 2012-13 school year. 2012-2013 Calendar Change Letter http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7975 Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Middle School Drama Production has been moved to THURSDAY February 14 and FRIDAY February 15 at 7:30 p.m. in the HS Auditorium. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9080 Sat, 09 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING NOTICE (CHANGE IN LOCATION) The regular monthly business meeting of the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education will be held on February 12, 2013, 7:30 p.m., in the auditorium at Earl L.Vandermeulen High School. The Board will be meeting in executive session at 5:30 p.m. to discuss matters related to negotiations and personnel. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9036 Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Heart Screen New York Initiative to Provide Free Cardiac Screening - March 2, 2013 Heart Screen New York a FREE program under the Louis J. Acompora Memorial Foundation and the Dominic A. Murray Memorial 21 Foundation will hold a free Heart Screening at Comsewogue High School, Port Jefferson Station N.Y. March 2,2013. The goal of this collaborative effort is to increase awareness about Sudden Cardiac Arrest in youth and the importance of cardiac screenings and early detection in youths. The screening is open to all students ages 12-24 regardless of the school they attend. Several leading cardiologists from area hospitals will be offering their services to the screening. The screening will consist of a heart health survey, heart sounds physical, ECG and Echocardiogram. To register for the FREE youth heart screening please visitwww.stayclassy.org/heartscreennewyork http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9051 Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT On Feb. 6, Port Jefferson Middle School students in Monica Consalvo’s and Deirdre Filippi’s classes participated in National Digital Learning Day. The campaign, which began last year, demonstrates how learning can be transformed when the Web and the effective use of technology are successfully incorporated into the classroom. The students were given the hypothetical task of creating a digital magazine cover, an idea inspired by the recent digitalization of Newsweek magazine. The theme, “Year 2012 as I Saw It,” was modeled after “Year in Review” publications like those published by Newsweek and Time magazine. Students were given access to previous print covers of the two famous periodicals and learned how headlines, bylines, tag lines and images can display the highlights of a year. They also conducted research using online news tools. The student-made covers were designed using a digital tool called “The Printing Press” and incorporated features such as U.S. and world news, pop culture and top icons of the year. All covers were available for viewing by the students’ peers during a class “fair,” and the top covers will be displayed for the entire school. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9070 Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT January 30th at dismissal, an eighth grade student was approached by awhite male, approximately 50 years old, wearing blue Nike running pants, at the end of the track near the path leading to Brook Avenue. The man asked the female student questions about her age and grade making her feel uncomfortable. The student contacted her father via cell phone,as the man drove off in a silver Chevy Impala that was parked near the track. Suffolk County Police werecontactedand took the information. School officials have also alerted the Port Jefferson Village Constables and Suffolk Transportation regarding the incident. Please take this opportunity to remind your children of how to respond in the event they are ever approached by a person not known to them. Sincerely, Dr. Ken Bossert Superintendent of Schools http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8942 Wed, 30 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students at the elementary school participated in “Welcome to New York!,”an interdisciplinary, interactive and innovative “in-house” field trip taught by instructors Cliff and Pat Heinze. The highly acclaimed BOCES Arts-in-Education program integrates information from classroom curriculum into a physical education experience. “What’s wonderful about this program is that it is adaptable for students in kindergarten through fifth-grade,” said Mr. Heinze. “By the second day, the younger children are able to quickly recognize symbols and key terms while the older students are able to actively hunt for information.” Many large panels of original artwork transformed the school’s gymnasium into a fun, colorful learning environment where students toured “New York State.” Students began their “excursion” at the tourist information center where they learned key facts about the state, its landscape and its most notable features. Following the introduction, the children were able to explore over 20 tourist activity stations incorporating such information as New York’s official bug, fish, flower, bird, tree, mammal and beverage into physical activities, accompanied by theme-related music. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8937 Tue, 29 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT On Jan. 22, fifth-grade students from Nancy Randazzo's art class studied the "subway" artwork of artist Keith Haring, a popular street artist from the 1980s. Students created Haring-style drawings throughout the elementary school building using only black construction paper and chalk to create their images. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8835 Tue, 22 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8836 Tue, 22 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT High school senior Sruthi Sridevan was recently interviewed by Newsday as part of a story about the art of Bharatanatyam Indian dancing. The article highlighted the accomplishments and teachings of local instructor “Guru” Kamala Lakshmi Narayanan. Sruthi has been studying for 10 years with Narayanan. Her family recently hosted lessons in their home, where they have a private dance studio dedicated to learning this particular type of dance, which is known for its gracefulness and structural poses. “This is the only form of dance I like to do because it’s fluid and picturesque,” Sruthi said. To read more about Sruthi and the art of Bharatanatyam dancing, visit http://www.newsday.com/lifestyle/retirement/teaching-the-intricacies-of-indian-dance-1.4464498?p=224397. (Subscription may be required.) http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8837 Tue, 22 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Department of Curriculum & Instruction Introduces Web Page for New York State Education Department’s Common Core Standards Initiative Visit the Common Core Standards webpage for information regarding the new Common Core Standards in English Language Arts and Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science and other Technical Subjects and the new Common Core Standards in Mathematics. The page serves as a resource for information on this nationwide initiative, with video, PowerPoint, and web links, as well as information on the implementation of the new standards in the Port Jefferson School District. For more information, visit the new pagehereor go to Departments, Curriculum & Instruction,NYS Common Core Standards, Information for Parents. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8809 Mon, 21 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT On Jan. 18 and 19, high school band students, along with students from Sachem High Schools North and East, Sayville High School, Patchogue-Medford High School and Hauppauge High School, participated in the 55th Annual Mid-Island Band Festival. The event, hosted by Port Jefferson, included a performance conducted by David Minelli, a veteran Long Island music teacher and member of the New York State School Music Association executive board. Congratulations to all participating students! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8793 Sun, 20 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING NOTICE A work session meeting of the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education will be held on January 22, 2013, 7:00 p.m., in the large group room at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School, for a report on the AP Program and other business as may be needed. The Board will be meeting in executive session at 6:00 p.m. to discuss matters related to negotiations and evaluation of the Superintendent. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8743 Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT On Jan. 11, middle school musicians Gavin Barrett, Joseph Kaming-Thanassi and Charles Rolfe participated in the 8th Annual SCMEA Day of Horn at Commack Middle School. This event, which last year broke the Guinness World Record for the world's largest horn ensemble, featured a concert performance by nearly 300 horn players from across Suffolk County. The musicians were led by guest artist Michael Slatkin from the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra. Congratulations to Gavin, Joseph and Charles for participating in this unique musical opportunity! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8697 Mon, 14 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Please read the attached letter in regards to Governor Coumo's declaration of a "Public Health Emergency". Governor Coumo's order came a day after federal health officials said the fast-spreading influenza had officially reached epidemic proportions in the United States. To reduce the risk of getting and spreading the flu viruses, we are asking you to read the attached letter and review the information with your child. If you have any questions or concerns about the flu please call your pediatrician or your school nurse. Click HERE for Flu Update Letter http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8700 Mon, 14 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Elementary school students recently participated in the Scripps Spelling Bee, an opportunity offered to all fourth- and fifth-graders by the school’s SEAL program to help improve spelling, enhance vocabulary and foster a deeper comprehension of the correct usage of the English language. Each classroom hosted its own competition, producing two winners each to advance to the school spelling bee. With his correct spelling of the word “invertebrate,” student Gavin Chambers maintained the title of school bee champion for the second year in a row. Runner-up Ameen Khan will serve as the alternate. Gavin will advance to the next level of competition at Hofstra University to compete against other Long Island schools in March. The champion of each local spelling bee qualifies to compete for cash and prizes in the Scripps National Spelling Bee near Washington, D.C., which has been broadcast on channels such as ESPN and ABC in the past. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8653 Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Port Jefferson School District has been selected by New York State to participate in the 2012-2013 Body Mass Index (BMI) Survey. All students in Kindergarten, 2nd grade, 4th grade, 7th grade and 10th grade will be included in this survey. The survey does not include any personal information about the student – no names are used. Only BMI percentage for each grade range is reported. If you would prefer that your child NOT be included in this survey, please contact the nurse at your child’s school by Wednesday, January 23, 2013. • HS/MS - Mrs. Federico 631-791-4410 or email sfederic@portjeff.k12.ny.us • ES - Mrs. Tucci 631-791-4310 or email jtucci@portjeff.k12.ny.us http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8600 Wed, 09 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Click HERE to view PowerPoint Presentation from the January 8th BOE Meeting. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8601 Wed, 09 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT January 17th @ 7:00 p.m. HS/MS Gymnasium - $5.00 Suggested Donation http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8613 Wed, 09 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT January’s Board of Education meeting started the New Year on a proud and positive note with the recognition of the outstanding efforts made by members within the district. Debra Ferry, director of health, physical education and athletics, along with social studies teacher Jesse Rosen, began the evening by awarding certificates of recognition for their service to the community to seniors Emma Crugnale, Caitlin Dennehy, Jaclyn Dombroski, Katie Lochren and Jessica Loehr. The group collaboratively organized the “Spikes for Sandy” volleyball tournament, a friendly competition that raised nearly $1,000 in Hurricane Sandy relief funds for those affected by the storm. Next, Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Bossert underlined the accomplishments of Ferry, who was recently named the Port Times Record’s Woman of the Year in Sports. “Deb treats all of her students as scholars before athletes,” stated Bossert, who continued by acknowledging Ferry’s hard work and dedication to her students. Flowers and a commemorative certificate were presented by Dr. Bossert and board member Vincent Ruggiero, respectively. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8618 Wed, 09 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT On Jan. 8, students in Philip Giannusa’s “Experiencing the Law” class at the high school welcomed Port Jefferson Mayor Margot Garant for a special guest lecture. A former Port Jefferson student and athlete, Garant had an open discussion with students about her career as a lawyer, her path to becoming mayor and how the law relates to the local community. “I love to talk with the students here because I once sat in those chairs,” she began. Garant continued by defining the major types of law and how they relate to her positions as mayor and lawyer. She described herself as a “clean hands lawyer” that always strives to seek a peaceful alternative to dispute. “Every day you have choices. Make the best decisions for yourself and figure out how to implement them,” she stated. “If you’ve made a good decision, go forward with it and never look back.” A question-and-answer segment towards the end of the lesson included discussion of the future of Port Jefferson. Garant shared with students a plan to help revitalize the town by supporting the construction of affordable housing. “I believe that growth is positive as long as it is in scale and in character with the rest of the town,” she stated. “One of our goals is to retain the youth in the community and help them make living in Port Jefferson a possibility.” Other areas of conversation included how Port Jefferson became an incorporated village, the importance of business within the community and the village’s response during Hurricane Sandy. Garant credits her success as a professional to the foundation she received at Earl L. Vandermeulen. “My education and experiences at this school helped me to think technically and become a good decision-maker. The skill sets that I learned here are ones that I still use every day.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8604 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Twenty math students from the high school competed in the Suffolk County Math Teachers Association Annual Math Tournament on Jan. 4 at Suffolk County Community College. Throughout the day, participants took part in individual and team competitions against 30 other schools from the county. Congratulations to Ryan Burke, who won second place in the 10th-grade individual competition. Math teacher Dennis Christofor and athletics coach Allyson Wolf were also in attendance at the college to supervise and support students. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8587 Mon, 07 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT In light of the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School, teachers and students at the high school participated in the Sandy Hook PTA’s project of creating snowflakes to decorate the halls for the children’s return to school in January. “I felt so proud of our kids to take a tragic event that affected our students, some personally, and produce beautiful snowflakes,” said project coordinator Sarah Ogden. “It made me smile inside and out.” Involved faculty members even formed mini-lessons around the activity. Art teacher Carrie Morgan connected the creation of the snowflakes with mathematics using isosceles triangles, angle bisectors and geometry. Similarly, Kristine Vaccaro integrated the use of calculus in teaching her students how to make 3-D snowflakes. Spanish teacher Dawn DeLeonardis-Moody and social studies teacher Lauren Trelewicz also strongly supported the project. The snowflakes were shipped to Newtown, Conn. in late December. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8560 Sun, 06 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT On Jan. 3, Port Jefferson School District parent and Stony Brook University geneticist Nancy Hollingsworth Neiman treated students in Laurie McMillen’s AP Biology class to a guest lecture on the use of statistical analysis in research. Neiman, who works in the biochemistry and cell biology department at Stony Brook, has also been a professor there for the last 18 years. “What I love about this lesson is that the students can see how the methods they are learning are used in the professional world,” said McMillen. “It is great to have Nancy come in and speak because she actually does these things.” Neiman incorporated interactive exercises with students focusing on genetics and probability. She emphasized the importance of examining results as well as the significance of being “confident in the accepting or rejecting of a hypothesis.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8561 Sun, 06 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT On Jan. 3, more than 50 elementary, middle and high school string students and their parents attended an evening performance of the New York Philharmonic at Avery Fisher Hall in Lincoln Center. Attendees enjoyed the orchestra's premiere performance by composer Walter Braunfels as well as Grieg's Piano Concerto in A minor and Beethoven's highly acclaimed Symphony No. 7. “For those students who have never been to Lincoln Center or to a professional orchestra concert, this trip, to hear one of the finest orchestras in the world, will surely be a night they remember for years to come,” stated Director of Music and Fine Arts Michael Caravello. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8562 Sun, 06 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT District Introduces Web Page for Power Plant Revenue Issue In an effort to keep the local community up-to-date with the latest, most relevant information regarding the LIPA/National Grid issue, the Port Jefferson Board of Education has added a comprehensive web page to the district’s site. The page serves as a resource for information and recent developments regarding the LIPA/National Grid issue, including the financial challenges that the issue poses to the district and its surrounding community, as well as the district’s position on the matter. Readers will also find supplemental information such as a recap of recent events, a question-and-answer section to help simplify and streamline information, a list of media reports on the issue and a district presentation that explores the potential impacts of reassessment. Additionally, the page offers an outlet for inquiries and other communications – an email address through which the board will respond in a timely manner. For more information, visit the new page hereor look to the Quick Links section on the lower right side of the page and click on 'Power Plant Revenue Issue.' http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8545 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Dear Parents and Community Members, I hope you have enjoyed the holiday season, and that the time away from school has provided the opportunity for making wonderful family memories. Happy New Year 2013! Over the last two weeks, District personnel, community officials and representatives of State and Federal agencies have been meeting to review all plans and practices associated with emergency response. The Port Jefferson School District facilities have also been reviewed to identify areas that could be targeted for security enhancement. These enhancements may include: additional cameras, “buzzer” doors, fencing, signage, and potentially – additional security staffing. Some modifications have already been completed. Other actions require approval from the Board of Education at a public meeting. Our next scheduled meeting of the Board will take place on Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2013 at 7:30 p.m. in the Elementary large group room. An update on security will be presented to the Board on that night. One of the concrete goals we are moving towards achieving is having one entry/exit point in each of our school buildings. To that end, all visitors will need to report to the designated “main entrance” at each of our facilities: Elementary School:Front door outside main office (you will need to be “buzzed” in). Middle School/High School:Main Entrance outside gym lobby (you will continue to report directly to the security desk once inside). A “buzzer” for this area is forthcoming.The MS/HS attendance office is currently being relocated to this area of the building. District Office:Main Entrance (faces Elementary School): You will need to call the extension (an intercom will be placed in the vestibule) of the person you have an appointment to see, and be “buzzed” in. Following the recommendation of our safety response committee, all visitors to school buildings will need to: Produce andsurrendera government issued photo identification (driver’s license, military I.D., passport, etc.) Your identification will be held at the security desk in each building and returned to you upon departure. This will enable us to have an accurate account of who is in our building (and the reason for the visit) at all times.This practice will go into effect beginning Monday, January 7. The District Administration and the Board of Education are anxious to hear your input regarding security of our schools. To that end, a community forum on safety has been planned for Thursday, Jan. 31 at 7 p.m. in the High School Auditorium. I will present some of the findings/recommendations of the safety committee (for obvious reasons, many of our practices will remain confidential and known only to school personnel and law enforcement). Parents and members of the school community will be given ample opportunity to make suggestions and ask questions of your own. I hope to see you there. The tragic events in Newtown, Connecticut caused all school officials in the country to examine safety protocol. While I am very confident that our schools are safe and our faculty is prepared to respond to emergencies, I also believe there are modifications to be made that will raise the comfort level of all concerned. I hope that 2013 brings you and your family many joyous occasions and also a sense of peace and normalcy following a very difficult end to 2012. Warm Regards, Dr. Ken Bossert Superintendent of Schools http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8506 Wed, 02 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the varsity field hockey team and coach Debbie Brown for being recognized at the Suffolk County Field Hockey Coaches Association Awards Dinner, held on Dec. 19. Jackie Brown and Tammy Serabian won All-Division and Allegra Fils-Aime was awarded All-Conference and All-Division. Great job! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8521 Tue, 01 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Since early November, students in Jesse Rosen's economics class at the high school have been working on projects to raise funds for Hurricane Sandy relief. One group, comprised of seniors Emma Crugnale, Caitlin Dennehy, Jaclyn Dombroski, Katie Lochren and Jessica Loehr, organized a volleyball tournament, appropriately named "Spikes for Sandy." Student, teacher and administrative teams participated in the friendly competition, which raised nearly $1,000. Tournament founders will soon be in contact with Long Island residents who were significantly impacted by the hurricane and will then decide how to best allocate the funds. “The project was a success in terms of learning important economic concepts,” said Debra Ferry, director of health, physical education and athletics. “It also helps the students understand their potential as members of our greater society." http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8454 Tue, 25 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Members of the high school’s Student Organization worked with the group Holiday Magic to provide families in need with presents for the holidays. Holiday Magic, which was begun in 1990 by Port Jefferson resident Charlie Russo, is a nonprofit organization that provides holiday generosity, spirit and hope to those less fortunate. The program reaches out to approximately 4,000 Long Island children living in homeless shelters, temporary foster care, Child Protective Services, sober houses, teen mother homes and domestic violence safe homes. “Mr. Russo’s children are graduates of the school, and his nieces and nephews are currently students,” said club adviser Sarah Ogden. “The Student Organization likes to support our local organizations, especially our Port Jefferson family.” The Student Organization, a club of 27 class officers from grades nine through 12, collected the donated gifts for 56 adopted children on Dec. 18. Participants worked throughout the day to ensure that everything was wrapped, labeled, packaged and safely delivered to a truck for delivery to headquarters in Hauppauge. The club meets Tuesdays after school and has a hand in major activities throughout the year, including homecoming, graduation and a spring dodgeball event. Members also assist their fellow students with fundraising initiatives, class duties and community collections. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8459 Tue, 25 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Dec. 18, students in the fifth-grade class participated in a portable planetarium sky lab presentation given by Night Sky Educational, Inc. Unique to this lesson was the setting – a large inflatable dome that students and teachers sat in, where planetarium-style projections were displayed on the walls. Night Sky representative Kim Barclay narrated the lesson, which focused on the life cycle of stars and explored nebulae, supernovae, black holes, pulsars and the life cycle of the sun. Students also discussed Greek mythology and its strong relation to the constellations and their names and placement in the universe. The sky lab was made possible through a grant from the Royal Educational Foundation that was awarded to fifth-grade teacher Kristi Krieg during the Superintendent’s Conference Day this past summer. The lesson was sponsored as an enhancement to the grade’s astronomy unit. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8445 Fri, 21 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Fourth- and fifth-grade students at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School recently participated in the National History Bee, an individual academic competition for elementary and middle school students that tests knowledge of a wide range of historical topics. SEAL (Studies Enriching Academic Learning) teacher Kimberly Pelkonen organized the competition for all students. The SEAL program offers educationally enhancing opportunities like this to students throughout the year. The qualifying Intramural Bee was held on Nov. 30 and consisted of 70 multiple-choice and two tie-breaker questions for participants to answer. The four students with the highest scores on this test, fourth-graders Lucas Welinder and Peggy Yin and fifth-graders Gavin Chambers and Giuseppina Than, will advance to the Online Regional Qualifying Exam in January 2013. The top 120 scorers of this round from each region will continue on to the Regional Finals in New York City. The National History Bee rewards students for their existing knowledge and encourages them to learn more about history. This is the first year that the competition has been open to elementary school students. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8373 Tue, 18 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Parents, Thank you to all those who volunteered to assist in the Battle of the Schools fundraiser tomorrow (Weds.) night. Thank you also to those who planned to attend to support the victims of Hurricane Sandy. Due to the ongoing events in Newtown, CT., we have decided to postpone the fundraiser out of respect to the victims and the services being held just 30 miles away. The new date is set for Thursday, January 17 at 7 p.m. in the MS/HS gymnasium. I look forward to seeing you then. All pre-sold tickets will be honored. Have a wonderful holiday break. Regards, Dr. Ken Bossert http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8346 Mon, 17 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Senior and AP Chemistry student Sruthi Sridevan spent this past summer interning for two different research projects at Stony Brook University. Choosing work over play, she spent 40 hours a week for two months at the Neonatal Research and Lipid Cancer labs as a research aide. “Becoming a research assistant was something that I really wanted to do, especially since I knew that the following summer would be spent preparing for college,” said Sruthi, who took it upon herself to reach out to 50 professors at the university until she landed a position. “My grandmother died of bladder cancer and that is what propels me to work in this field and eventually have a career in medicine.” As part of her experience at the Lipid Cancer Lab, Sruthi studied a specific class of molecules called sphingolipids and their activity when metabolized. Her studies at the Neonatal Research Lab focused on the inflammation of membranes surrounding a fetus and allowed her to shadow doctors that perform Caesarean section births. Personal experiences combined with a deep-rooted interest in science keep her hopeful for a future as a professional. “I would like to develop treatment that will alleviate or cure cancer patients,” she said. Sruthi is looking to return to the labs in March and continue her work over the summer until her departure for college. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8364 Mon, 17 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Nov. 13, the high school academic team, accompanied by science teacher and coach Laurie McMillen, traveled to Metropolis Studios in Manhattan for a face-off in intellectual competition against Amityville Memorial High School on the MSG Varsity show “The Challenge.” The show is an award-winning, academic quiz for high schools that features the best and brightest local students from across the tri-state area. Jared Cotter, former FUSE TV host and a popular “American Idol” semifinalist, serves as moderator, asking competing high school teams questions based on their knowledge of history, arts and literature, current events, math and science. High school senior Zachary Graziano captains the team, which includes senior Jonathan Chun, junior Alberto Rescia and freshman Erik Kilgore, with senior Gabe Davis and junior Leah Neiman as alternates. These representatives were chosen for competition based on their high performance during weekly after-school group meetings with other students. Earl L. Vandermeulen students have participated in “The Challenge” for more than 10 years and took first place the year the contest began. This year’s competition will air on MSG Varsity (Cablevision Channel 14) on Dec. 24 at 6:30 p.m. Encore episodes can be viewed the following Saturday and Sunday on News 12 at 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8302 Sun, 16 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Darlene Wells and her second-grade students at have recently been discussing how to make a positive difference in the lives of others, especially during the holiday season. During a brainstorming session, the children decided upon three good deeds that they would collectively participate in this winter. On Dec. 12, the class brought their good intentions to life. Four work stations were set up in their classroom, at which they took turns making cards for United States troops, decorating holiday ornaments and gingerbread houses for local nursing home residents, and creating self-portraits to give to their parents as gifts. In the days prior, the students collected toiletries and made care packages to accompany their cards to the troops. In addition to these heartwarming acts of kindness, the children each thought of an additional two good deeds that they could personally carry out during the holiday season. They then wrote the deeds on a traced handprint, which were collected to make a wreath. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8304 Sun, 16 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Dec. 11, the high school Interact Club and members of the Port Jefferson Rotary Club worked together to wrap presents for local underprivileged children. For the past three years, the Rotary has adopted 100 children for the holidays through the Infant Jesus R.C. Church Outreach’s “Adopt-A-Family” Christmas program. What makes this year unique is the Interact’s decision to supplement the Rotary gifts, which are traditionally clothing and other necessities, with toys, books and games. Interact co-advisers Deirdre Filippi and Sarah Ogden helped the approximate 40 club members organize what became the “Spirit of Giving” toy collection in the middle and high schools. “I am thrilled with the response that the program received,” said Ogden. Since the start of their drive in late November, the group collected an overwhelming amount of gifts for the children. “We made sure to take the extra time and effort in deciding what to give,” said second- year Interact member Kayley Okst. “The students really got into it,” added fellow member Lauren McGuirk. “It makes people think about other kids that wouldn’t get as much or anything for Christmas if we didn’t help.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8312 Sun, 16 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Parents and Community Members, As you all are likely aware, a horrific act occurred at an Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut this morning (Friday, 12/14) just before 10 a.m. As the details of this horrible act continue to be updated, our hearts go out to the victims and their families. Please know that the safety and welfare of our students and staff remains at the forefront of our thoughts in Port Jefferson. There have been a number of recent changes to procedures and equipment in order to bolster the security of our facilities. That said, we will continue to investigate ways that security can be tightened. Several members of the administrative team will be meeting with key school and community officials next week to continue discussing ways to best secure our buildings and to review recent, updated guidance from NYSED and the Dept. of Homeland Security. Our faculty and staff, however, remain our first and best line of defense. All members of our faculty and staff have been asked to continue to: question individuals who lack District I.D., remind students not to open doors for anyone, point out any lapses in security they see to building administration, closely monitor all students as they travel between hallways (and buildings at the HS), etc. We ask parents and community members to be patient if you experience a delay in accessing our school facilities. Each of our school buildings can and should only be accessed through one entrance that is monitored by staff members. Staff will continue to ask you to sign in and produce identification. You will also need to share the purpose for your visit. In upcoming weeks our administration, faculty and staff members will continue to drill for all types of emergencies, including: fire, lock down and lock out. You are encouraged to discuss these drills with your children. While these drills should be taken seriously, we do not want to cause our students any unnecessary anxiety. The events that took place this morning are nothing short of tragic. While it would be foolish to think we can ever 100% protect ourselves from those looking to do us harm, we must feel 100% confident we are doing all we can in a proactive way. Warm Regards, Dr. Ken Bossert Superintendent of Schools http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8269 Fri, 14 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Prior to the start of the Dec. 11 Board of Education meeting, members of the high school’s chamber choir and string chamber ensemble treated attendees to spirited performances of traditional holiday songs. The groups include students in grades nine through 12 and are led by Jason Crockett and Michael Caravello, respectively. Earlier in the evening, the chamber choir performed for staff and patients at the local Mather Hospital. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8234 Wed, 12 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Wednesday, Dec. 19 at 7 p.m., the district will be hosting “Battle of the Schools,” a Hurricane Sandy benefit. Attendees are asked to bring a $5 donation to the event, which will take place in the high school/middle school gymnasium. Come cheer on the teachers and staff of your school! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8214 Tue, 11 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students and teachers from the district participated in the 17th Annual Dickens Festival on Friday, Nov. 30 through Sunday, Dec. 2. The festival, a village-wide celebration of the Charles Dickens novel “A Christmas Carol,” featured costumed characters, performances, carriage and trolley rides and much more. This year, eight poetry contest winners from the school read original poetry during the opening night of the ceremony. Students Asha Buehler, Jillian Lawler, Sean McCarthy, Abby Murphy, Chiara Rabeno, Ava Schully, Swathi Sridevan and Eric Zimmerman performed at designated stations throughout the village. On Saturday and Sunday, students from the elementary school select choir, led by directors Andrew Frey and Jessica Pastor; the sixth-grade chamber ensemble, led by Christine Klimek; the middle school and high school string orchestras, led by Christian Neubert and Michael Caravello, respectively; and the wind and brass ensemble from the high school choral, led by Christine Creighton and Jason Crockett, provided musical entertainment for guests at the First Presbyterian Church on East Main Street. The student-musicians performed holiday selections as well as previews from their upcoming winter concerts. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8178 Sun, 09 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT During the week of Dec. 3, students in grades six through eight at the middle School participated in the National Geographic Bee, a competition amongst thousands of schools in the United States. The contest begins as a school-level bee in which contestants compete in multiple rounds of question-and-answer quizzes progressing from U.S. geography to continental geography, physical geography and finally world geography. One winner from the school is then administered a qualifying test to identify the top 100 students in each state who are then invited to compete at the state-level competition. This year’s winner from the middle school, seventh-grader Joe Longo, took first place after coming in third place in last year’s school bee. In early March, teacher representatives will be notified whether Joe qualifies to represent Port Jefferson Middle School at the state level. State qualifiers will participate in an oral competition, and winners of that round are then invited to National Geographic headquarters in late May to compete in the national finals. Winners of the finals are awarded scholarships in the amount of $25,000, $15,000 and $10,000. The contest is designed to encourage teachers to include geography in their classrooms, spark student interest in the subject and increase public awareness about geography. This is the eighth year that social studies teacher Philip Giannusa has facilitated a bee for students to participate in. Of those years, Giannusa has had two students advance to the state-level competition in Albany, and one student make it to the top 10. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8184 Sun, 09 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Sunday, Dec. 9, band teacher Christine Creighton accompanied middle school students Grant Calendrille (sixth grade) and Paul Penske (seventh grade) to their performance at Rockefeller Center for the annual Tuba Christmas. For almost 40 years, tuba, euphonium and baritone players from across the country gather in New York City to perform at this annual event, which this year included players from ages 10-87. A total of 470 musicians played at this year’s event, which was conducted by Christian Wilhelm, former conductor of the Goldman Memorial Band. Thank you to Grant and Paul for participating in this unique performance opportunity! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8186 Sun, 09 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Port Jefferson School District has launched a mobile version of its website. Accessible from any web-enabled phone or Smartphone, the site connects students, parents, community members and teachers, wherever they may be, with the Port Jefferson School District. Visit http://portjeffschools.org/ from any web-enabled phone to test drive the site. The mobile website provides users with the same information as the regular website, such as news, calendar and staff lists. It also provides alerts in an easy-to-read manner. We hope this provides users with more on-the-go availability to the website. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8126 Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Tuesday, Dec. 4, members of the boys varsity soccer team traveled to the Suffolk County Legislature Building in Hauppauge. There, players and team coach John Poulianos were presented with a proclamation and certificates by Legislator Kara Hahn (5th District). Friends and family looked on as the athletes were recognized for their successes during the 2012 season. The undefeated team placed first in New York State’s Class C Division for the second year in a row. The group was also commended for its display of sportsmanship, athleticism, strength, determination and perseverance throughout the season. The team has also been invited by Sen. Kenneth LaValle to receive a proclamation on the New York State Senate floor in Albany in January 2013. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8114 Wed, 05 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT All of our Winter Concerts will be streamed LIVE. On your computer you will need the Real Player to view the LIVE stream. It can be downloaded by following the link below: Click HERE for the Real Player Download Click HERE to start the LIVE Stream on your Computer with the Real Player On your iPad/iPhone/iPod you can watch directly by following the link below: Click HERE to start the LIVE Stream on your iPod/iPhone/iPad http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8055 Tue, 04 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Tuesday, Dec. 4, students in Jonathan Maletta’s marine science class and Carrie Morgan’s art class participated in a three-part interdisciplinary exercise combining lessons on the external anatomy of fish with the creation of Japanese Gyotaku printing. During the exercise, students used their newly acquired knowledge of fin position and scale structure of fish species, including striped bass, flounder and porgy, to replicate samples using this distinctive technique. The unit also incorporated background information on Japanese culture. “Gyotaku provides an excellent way for students to enhance their scientific process skills of observing, hypothesizing, experimenting, comparing, contrasting, measuring and cataloging,” said Morgan. “We felt this would be a more valuable lesson for the students if they were able to participate in a hands-on activity,” added Maletta. Participants were provided with a fish body that had been washed and prepared by the two teachers. Students then were given the task of painting the fish exteriors, placing special paper over them and then rubbing the surface down to create an imprint. This is similar to the ancient method of using sumi ink and rice paper to create a life-sized impression. The scientific portion of the lesson centered on the importance of scales for protection and as an evaluative tool for scientists. “Scales produce ring patterns, much like rings associated with growth for trees, that help scientists determine their age and also possible spawning events in freshwater environments,” stated Maletta. “Students examined scales of striped bass to estimate their age in an inquiry-based laboratory investigation.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8079 Tue, 04 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students in Jonathan Maletta’s AP environmental class are continuing the work of an ongoing water quality investigation. The study, which began approximately a year and a half ago, actively monitors potentially harmful phytoplankton species that have been collected from the Port Jefferson Harbor. “Not only does this lesson tie in with the curriculum, but it also allows us to make use of our close proximity to the harbor,” said Maletta. “We have been working with the local government, which helps us to quantify our data using advanced technology that we do not have here at the school.” The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Phytoplankton Monitoring Network (NOAA PMN), part of the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, worked with students on their most recent investigation of water from the Port Jefferson Village Pier. Students analyzed the sample and identified a potentially harmful species of phytoplankton that when in a “bloom” status can produce enough toxins to result in shellfish poisoning. They observed the harmful species of diatom, Pseudo-nitzschia, under a new compound microscope that allows for better visualization of phytoplankton and better communication with NOAA PMN due to the ability to now take and send images. The Boreal2 HM series digital microscope that students used was purchased with grant money awarded to Maletta by the Port Jefferson Royal Educational Foundation. “My students have clearly identified a Pseudo-nitzschia bloom of 2,500,000 cells per liter; more than 1 million signifies a bloom in the harbor,” stated Maletta. “However, the toxin production was not elevated enough to adversely impact finfish or shellfish populations.” In the right conditions, a bloom could lead to amnesic shellfish poisoning. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8080 Tue, 04 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT District participates in local storm relief drive What started out as a small project of hope turned into a community-wide act of giving to Long Island victims of Hurricane Sandy. Thinking of friends and family in Port Jefferson, Natasha Benham-Erdi of Pleasanton, Calif. began the “Benham Blanket Drive” for those hit hardest shortly after the storm. The campaign asked locals to donate new blankets to help keep those living without power warm. She then reached out to friend and Port Jefferson Middle School parent Chris Schully to help organize the shipment and distribution of the collected goods. When issues arose with shipping the pallet, Schully reached out to Port Jefferson Middle School Principal Antonio Santana for assistance. “I contacted the PTSA who was already working on several Sandy initiatives,” said Santana. “I believed they would be the perfect organization to make the delivery happen.” The team turned to the Outreach at Infant Jesus R.C. Church in Port Jefferson, who immediately offered their location as a distribution site for the hundreds of collected blankets. Together as part of one collaborative effort, Schully, the PTSA and the Infant Jesus Outreach organized the donation of the blankets to local shelters that were housing Hurricane Sandy victims. “It was really nice to see how the school and community members could work together toward a shared goal,” said Santana. “More importantly, it shows how public schools are often the vessel for philanthropic work and coordinate efforts that go beyond the school’s instructional mission.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8038 Sun, 02 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT During a luncheon on Nov. 27, members of the Port Jefferson Rotary Club awarded middle school student Phoenix Jampol with their October Most Motivated Student of the Month award. Teacher Allison Giannusa introduced Phoenix to the Rotarians, explaining that her nomination was based upon his perpetually “sunny” disposition, diligence as a student, leadership skills and admirable qualities as a caring young citizen. Middle school principal and fellow Rotarian Antonio Santana also took part in the award presentation. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8020 Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Approval Notice http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7938 Mon, 26 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The girls varsity soccer team had an outstanding season! The undefeated team (12-0) secured their League Champion title for a second season. They continued their success by beating the Stony Brook School in the Suffolk County Finals on Friday, Nov. 9, earning them the title of Suffolk County Class C Champions. The team, along with coaches Winnie Kuemmel and Ally Wolff, has recently been recognized by Suffolk County for their athletic accomplishments. Olivia Racanelli, the League Player of the Year, and Mairead Swords, the Outstanding Player in the 2012 Class Finals, both received All-County Awards. Jillian Colucci and Francesca Racanelli were honored with the All-Conference Award. Additionally, Olivia Love, Corinne Scannell and Demitria Ulino received All-League Awards. Coach Kuemmel was also included in the honors and was named the League Coach of the Year. Congratulations to our athletes! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7921 Sun, 25 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the girls varsity tennis team and coach Dennis Christofor for being recognized at the Suffolk County Tennis Awards Dinner on Tuesday, Nov. 20. Michaela Griffin received the All-League Award, Rachel London earned All-Division and Kelsey Van Houten was recognized with the Sportsmanship Award. Way to go! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7892 Wed, 21 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT PORT JEFFERSON SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTICE OF MEETING A work session meeting of the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education will be held on November 27, 2012, 7:00 p.m., in the large group room at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School, regarding communication and other business as may be needed. The Board will be meeting in executive session at 6:00 p.m. to discuss matters related to personnel and negotiations. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7857 Tue, 20 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the Varsity Boys Soccer team on their back-to-back State Championships. For the second year in a row the Port Jefferson Varsity Boys Soccer team has won the NYSPHSAA New York State Class "C" Championship. Congratulations to Coach Poulianos for an amazing season and representing thePort Jefferson School District and community in a well respected fashion. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7864 Tue, 20 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the varsity boys soccer team on their back-to-back state championship wins! The defending state champions, led by Coach John Poulianos, went undefeated this season. Prior to this victory, the team won the Suffolk County and Long Island Class C championships, as well as the Class C semifinals against Williamson in Middletown, N.Y. They then defeated the undefeated Lansing High School of upstate New York to win the title. Thank you Coach Poulianos for an amazing season and for your positive representation of the district and community. GO ROYALS! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7872 Mon, 19 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Saturday, Nov. 17, the elementary school select choir performed at the fifth annual Go Green Festival at the Port Jefferson Village Center. The theme of this year’s festival was “Youth Building a Greener Future.” Music teachers Jessica Pastor and Andrew Frey led the choir in their performance of “Give Us Hope.” This is the second year that the Village has asked Port Jefferson students to participate in the festival. Also in attendance for the fourth year was the high school’s environmental club. Their table displayed and promoted reusable items including stainless steel bottles and “Onya” bags. In addition, attendees were able to purchase raffle tickets for chances to win several gift baskets containing gifts from around the village. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7849 Sun, 18 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the boys varsity soccer team on winning the NYSPHSAA Semi-Final Championship game. The defending state champions are undefeated this season (20-0). Prior to this victory, the team won the Suffolk County, Long Island and Southeast Class C Championships. They will continue on to the Class C State Championship game in Middletown on Sunday at 10:00 a.m. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7773 Sat, 17 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Port Jefferson High School Drama Club Presents Twelfth Night November 16 & 17 at 8:00 p.m. November 18 at 2:00 p.m. Suggested Donations: Adults: $5.00 Families: $20.00 http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7812 Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Wednesday, Nov. 14, members of the student council at the middle school hosted their annual Senior Citizens’ Luncheon for members of the Port Jefferson Senior Center. Prior to the event, the sixth- through eighth-grade representatives held group-planning discussions and brainstormed ideas for setup and decorations with their club advisor Allison Giannusa. “We talk with them about everyday life, serve food to them and do everything possible to make sure that they have a good time,” said sixth-grade student Sarah Hull. The food, which consisted of a full Thanksgiving meal, was catered and paid for by student council fundraisers earlier in the year. Parents also contributed to the event by providing desserts. While dining, guests were treated to musical performances by sixth-grade student Annalisa Welinder and eighth-graders Anita Rescia and Elisa Ueno. Also in attendance to greet the seniors were middle school principal Antonio Santana and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert. “It’s a good feeling to know that you are helping someone,” stated student Tianna Couch. “Knowing that they are happy makes us happy,” added classmate Devin Rotunno. Attendees left the event with party favors created by middle school teacher Nancy Bachety’s sixth-grade family and consumer science class. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7797 Wed, 14 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the Varsity Girls Soccer Team for winning the Suffolk County Class "C" Championship. Congratulations to the Boys Varsity Soccer Team for winning the Suffolk County Class "C" Championship and the Long Island Championship. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7610 Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7620 Wed, 07 Nov 2012 22:00:00 GMT If inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances cause schools to be delayed in opening or closed, announcements will be made on the following local media outlets: WALK- AM 1370, WALK-FM 97.5, WBLI-FM 106.1 and News 12 Long Island. The district will also make related announcements via the School Notification System and on our website. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7630 Wed, 07 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7595 Wed, 07 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students at the middle and high schools participated in a national mock presidential election on Nov. 6. Voting, organized and coordinated by high school social studies teacher Donna Levine, was done on computers in the school library. The event gave students in grades 6-12 a chance to experience the electoral process through the Pearson Foundation’s My Voice National Student Mock Election program. Student mock elections took place in schools, community centers, libraries and homes across the nation as part of the country’s largest civic education project. The national results for the mock election showed President Obama with 460 electoral votes and 59.9 percent of the popular vote in New York State. Governor Romney received 33.7 percent of the popular vote. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7597 Tue, 06 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7594 Tue, 06 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT All athletic contests that were missed due to Hurricane Sandy will not be made up. Therefore, all fall athletic seasons are over, with the exceptionthe following Varsity teams that are in post-season. BOYS CROSS COUNTRY GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY BOYS SOCCER GIRLS SOCCER GIRLS VOLLEYBALL GO ROYALS!!! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7524 Mon, 05 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Tuesday, Oct. 23, the Italian and French classes attended a field trip to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Students walked through the Great Hall, where many of their ancestors entered the United States over a century ago. They also enjoyed the breathtaking sight of the Statue of Liberty, donated by the French to the United States in 1886. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7533 Sun, 04 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Dear Parents, As of 12 noon today, Thursday, power has been restored to all District buildings. Schools will remain closed, however, until Monday, November 5 as the Village and LIPA work to make roads passable for buses, and return service to all residents. In addition, the SAT exam that was scheduled for Saturday, November3 has been rescheduled by the College Board. The newtest date for those students registered for the November 3 exam will be Saturday, November 17. Port Jefferson will remain a testing center on that new date. Lastly, the 6th grade trip to Frost Valley scheduled for next week has been canceled due to the conditions of the camp grounds. We will make every attempt to reschedule the trip for later in the school year. Many homes and businesses in our community have suffered extensive damage and loss. I hope you and yourfamily have remained safe and unharmed. Regards, Dr. Ken Bossert Superintendent http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7488 Thu, 01 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT During a meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 23, the Rotary Club of Port Jefferson honored the high school Interact Club with the Rotary International 2011-2012 Changemaker Award, which recognizes student efforts to make the world a better place through service. Club co-advisors Deirdre Filippi and Sarah Ogden, along with club co-president Amber Edley, accepted the award on behalf of the 40 members of the service club. In order to qualify for the award, the Interact had to successfully complete a minimum of five service goals of the 10 set forth by the Rotary International president. The club completed an outstanding seven goals, including various forms of international and local aid activities. With the “Service Above Self” Rotary motto guiding them, the group has worked alongside the local Rotary Club in volunteering at a Toys for Tots collection center, participating in a community cleanup at Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck, supporting the Read-to-Me program, hosting a prom dress collection for teens and creating toiletry care packages for those in need. In addition, the club has raised funds for various causes such as Habitat for Humanity, Heifer International, Have a Heart Foundation and the Open Cupboard food pantry at Infant Jesus R.C. Church. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7445 Thu, 25 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Water Main Break Does Not Stop Stream of Productivity Despite the short notice and closing of the elementary school on Tuesday, Oct. 23, faculty and staff members were able to accomplish a tremendous amount of work. Teachers relocated to the high school for the day, where they completed APPR-related Student Learning Objective assignments with the assistance of Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction Maureen Hull, Director of Music and Fine Arts Michael Caravello, Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics Debra Ferry and elementary school principal Thomas Meehan. They also attended workshops regarding state assessments, data analysis and AIMSweb, a program used for screening and progress monitoring, which was conducted by Mrs. Hull. Teacher’s aides and assistants participated in workshops on playground safety, student management and other topics selected by Mr. Meehan. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7430 Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Elementary School OPEN Wednesday October 24th http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7386 Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT High school social studies teacher Philip Giannusa and his law class welcomed Suffolk County police officer Stephani Dwyer to their classroom on Oct. 24. Officer Dwyer, a school resource officer for the Port Jefferson, Sachem, Mount Sinai and Miller Place school districts, came to talk to students during an informal question-and-answer session. During the class, students asked a variety of questions about topics such as ordinances within local communities and the department’s roles and responsibilities as an accredited law enforcement agency, as well as the differing rights of adults and minors. “According to New York State law, you are considered an adult when you turn 16, not 18 years old,” said officer Dwyer, surprising most of the students. She also stressed the importance of making safe choices regarding partying, peer pressure and texting. “There is nothing so urgent that it requires you to text while driving,” she said. “If it is an emergency, please do the right thing and pull over.” Officer Dwyer, who has been in the force for 20 years, first became a district liaison in February 2011. “I try to be in the schools as much as possible. I want students to recognize me as a friendly face that they can trust,” she said. “My biggest thing is confidentiality and for kids to realize that they can confide in me and not have to worry.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7413 Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The main courtyard at the elementary school is currently in the process of being renovated as part of a volunteer group project. Elementary school art teacher Richard Anderson, Richard Lautato of the grounds department, elementary school head custodian Gary Kenyon, Network & Systems Technician and Greenhouse Club co-advisor Brian Kendrick, retired teacher’s assistant and former Greenhouse Club co-advisor Ellen Boehm, and Network & Systems Administrator Brian Sandak are working together on the renovations. Additions to the courtyard will include a reading patio and wooden arbor. “We are all working on this for the students,” stated Sandak. “It is an area that everyone walks past every day but was being underutilized.” The idea for the project originated with Lautato and Kendrick following the completion of a small pond in the same area over a year ago. “This new courtyard will be accessed and used by so many students,” said Assistant Superintendent for Business Sean Leister. “Teachers have already incorporated the existing pond and greenhouse into their lessons and the new additions will bring even more avenues for exploration and hands-on learning.” Early phases of design began in the spring of 2012 with a projected completion time of spring 2013. Thus far, all of the time, materials and labor needed for the project have been donated free of charge. “It’s really amazing to see the community come together to make this project happen,” stated Leister. “We are talking about district staff members giving up their afternoons and weekends with no incentive other than to see our students have a beautified learning environment.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7416 Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The student-athletes have been making great strides in the fight against Breast Cancer. On Friday, Oct. 12, the JV girls volleyball team held its annual “Dig Pink” game. Team members and coach Dinarae Camarda dressed in pink and raised over $200 for breast cancer research with a bake sale. On Sunday, Oct. 14, the girls varsity soccer team hosted a “Flapjack Fundraiser” at Applebee’s Restaurant in Lake Grove. Tickets included a full pancake breakfast where the athletes greeted, seated and served around 100 guests. The middle school girls soccer team assisted by selling breast cancer awareness items, which helped the team raise over $2,000 for the cause. The following Friday, the team hosted their second “Kicks for Cancer” game against Pierson High School of the Sag Harbor School District. Players and team coaches Winifred Kuemmel and Ally Wolff dressed in pink attire to show their support for the cause. “Everyone participated in honor or memory of someone they know,” said student Stephanie Davis. “Breast cancer is something that affects almost everyone on the team personally, which is why we really wanted to raise money for the cause.” In addition, the girls varsity soccer team participated in the annual Jones Beach Breast Cancer Walk on Sunday, Oct. 21 to close out their activities during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7358 Sun, 21 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.portjeff.k12.ny.us/download/PDFs/stranger_danger_10-17-12.pdf http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7275 Wed, 17 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT ATTENTION PORT JEFFERSON SCHOOL DISTRICT RESIDENTS The Port Jefferson School District Board of Education Finance Committee is looking for district residents to serve on a Budget Advisory Committee for development of the 2013-2014 budget. The committee will be responsible for reviewing budget and tax levy recommendations by the Board of Education, and will work with the Finance Committee and district officials in the completion of that task. Anyone interested in serving on this committee should submit their name, contact information, and any pertinent background information to the District Clerk by e-mail: districtclerk@portjeff.k12.ny.us or fax: (631)476-4409. Submissions will be received up to November 1, 2012 and a committee representative of the community will be selected. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7276 Wed, 17 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT High school varsity baseball coach Jesse Rosen, junior varsity girls volleyball coach Dinarae Camarda and 20 of their student-athletes participated in a local Miracle League baseball game on Oct. 13. The students volunteered their time as BUDDY helpers to the athletes, which stands for “Because Unbelievable Dedication Deserves YOU.” The volunteers’ jobs included protecting their assigned players from balls and assisting them in batting and running the bases. The Miracle League of Long Island's mission, to establish and sustain baseball programs for people of all ages with disabilities, is founded on their strong belief that “everyone deserves a chance to play baseball.” The League aims to help players develop social skills and increase self-esteem while simultaneously promoting community support and sponsorship for the league. “After volunteering for the past two years, many students showed an earnest desire to make this an annual trip,” said Camarda. “This was an extremely positive experience and we look forward to a continued involvement with this extraordinary program.” “The League is a great thing because it gives children with special needs a chance to play in an accepting and nonjudgmental environment,” stated Therese Blanton, a Miracle League board member and mother of League player Luke Blanton. “Not only is this an important outlet for the players, but it also gives the BUDDY volunteers a chance to see the struggles of kids with disabilities on a moment-by-moment basis. They come away more tolerant, accepting and aware of the fact that these are kids just like them.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7284 Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT PJHS Environmental Club memberswill be participating in the "Go Green" event on November 17th at the Port Jeff Village Center. They have created a brief survey and are requesting your help in gathering information onyour environmental practices. Please select the link below to participate in this survey. http://s.zoomerang.com/s/PJHSEnviromentalClubSurvey http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7231 Mon, 15 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Friday, Oct. 12, students and faculty at the elementary school participated in a fire safety demonstration conducted by the Port Jefferson Fire Department. Chief John Pisciotta, along with fellow firefighters from Ladder 1 and Engine 3, showed students the purpose and importance of a firefighter’s protective uniform and the various apparatuses they use when combating fire, including two different water hoses. Perhaps the most captivating segment was when one of the firefighters ascended 100 feet into the air to show the fully extended rescue ladder. “This is a great program to do with the kids because it is not only informative, but also a lot of fun,” said Pisciotta. The Port Jefferson Fire Department began teaching students the basics of fire safety at their first demonstration last year, and were welcomed back again by former firefighter and principal Thomas Meehan. “As long as I am chief, I will make sure that we keep coming back to the school to do this presentation,” stated Pisciotta. “It’s important.” After the demonstration, Chief Pisciotta distributed decorative fire helmets and encouraged students to attend the fire department’s fire prevention open house, which will be taking place on Sunday, Oct. 14. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7232 Sun, 14 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Please be aware that Nutrikids is now known as mySchoolBucks. Parents will be receiving an email from mySchoolBucks with important information regarding their student's accounts. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7216 Fri, 12 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7212 Thu, 11 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The recent accomplishments of two students were recognized by faculty and administration at the Oct. 9 Board of Education meeting. Elementary school student Paige Miller was honored as a Community Hero for making a potentially life-saving 911 call when she witnessed her grandmother collapse and suffer a seizure. Paige’s quick thinking and courageous actions earned her an award commending her heroism. High school senior Zachary Graziano, a recent National Merit Semifinalist, was presented with a plaque from the American Chemical Society in recognition of his outstanding scholastic achievement in high school chemistry. He also received the Rensselaer Medal Award from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute for his outstanding and distinguished work in the fields of science and mathematics. If Zachary applies, is accepted to and enrolls at RPI, he will receive a merit scholarship with a minimum value of $15,000 per year for a guaranteed four years (five years for the Bachelors in Architecture program). http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7196 Wed, 10 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT In observance of Unity Day on Oct. 10, a part of National Bullying Awareness Month, middle school students dressed in orange to show their solidarity against bullying. English teacher Deirdre Filippi and special education teacher Monica Consalvo collaborated in an effort to advance Pacer.org’s movement to unite communities nationwide and raise awareness of bullying prevention through events, activities, outreach and education. “Deirdre and I felt that this would be a great event because of the recent initiatives of the Dignity for All Students Act,” stated Consalvo, referring to the legislation effected July 1, 2012 that requires New York State schools to have policies in place that address bullying, conflict and harassment. “Bullying changes people’s lives,” commented student Jack McGorry. “There are some kids who don’t realize that they are the ones who are bullying,” added student Maddi Leon. “That’s why it’s important for everyone to take things like this seriously and confront bullies.” Students began preparing for Unity Day on Oct. 5, when all sixth- through eighth-grade English classes viewed an anti-bullying video based on singer Demi Lovato’s song “Skyscraper.” Lovato, who is a national spokesperson for the cause, wrote the song about her own personal experiences with bullying in middle school. In addition, students created posters reflecting bullying statistics and facts and displayed them around the building for all to see. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7186 Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Deanna Lilimpakis, a special education teacher at the elementary school, certainly got her money’s worth at a recent Broadway performance of “Bring It On: The Musical” when she saw Danielle Carlacci, a former Port Jefferson cheerleader and 2009 high school graduate, on stage. Carlacci, who has been a cast member of the show since September 2011, began her cheerleading career in the seventh grade as a member of the varsity cheerleading team. She cheered throughout high school, with Lilimpakis as her coach, and was named captain in her senior year. In addition, Carlacci performed in numerous productions at regional theaters on Long Island, including Gateway Playhouse and Theatre Three. She also danced for the New York Knicks City Kids as a high school student, performing at Madison Square Garden during the team’s home weekend games. After graduating from Earl L. Vandermeulen, Carlacci went on to cheer for two years at Boston College and traveled as a member of the coed team. “I was a theater major while being a member of the cheerleading team, but never have I been in a show that combines both!” Carlacci said, speaking of her experience on Broadway. “It has really been an honor to be involved in such a great, exciting and unique production. Our show has been able to touch people of all age groups and all backgrounds, and it has been absolutely amazing to be a part of!” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7698 Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The sights and sounds of excitement filled the gymnasium on Friday, Oct. 5, when middle and high school students kicked off their annual homecoming pep rally. The pep band’s upbeat tunes welcomed students, faculty and staff as they congregated to form a sea of purple and white. Four emcees and the varsity cheerleading squad kept the good vibes going through events like tug-of-war, a pie-eating contest, a presentation of the athletic teams and even a surprise flash mob dance by the staff. Later that evening, students were invited to participate in a bonfire, which preceded a homecoming dance for high school students. The next morning, homecoming festivities continued with a parade through Port Jefferson Village. A procession of students and band members led the cheerful caravan of VIP cars, including Homecoming King Gerard Racanelli and Queen Kelsey Lyons, elaborately decorated floats and athletes. The group marched, sang and played music down Main Street, through the village and back to the high school, where select staff members voted on best class float. Kickoff for the varsity football game against Bishop McGann Mercy High School of Riverhead began at 2 p.m. Winners of the spirit week competitions were announced during halftime, with the senior class winning best float. Throughout the game, cheerleaders led family, friends and staff in sideline cheers and applause for their team. Even though the Royals were not triumphant against Mercy, homecoming weekend was a very successful conclusion to a festive and memorable spirit week. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7151 Mon, 08 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Friday, Sept. 28, high school science teacher Laurie McMillen and her AP Biology students welcomed guest speaker Adrianna San Romano into their classroom. Ms. San Roman, a Port Jefferson graduate from the Class of 2005, is currently in her fourth year toward her Ph.D. in developmental and regenerative biology through the Biological and Biomedical Sciences program at Harvard University. During the presentation, students learned about the daily routine of a research scientist and participated in a lesson about regeneration in the intestine. “I have always been very interested in science. I like to figure out how and why things work,” stated Ms. San Roman. “The things that I learned here at Port Jeff helped to build a very strong foundation for what I am doing now.” After high school, Ms. San Roman attended Williams College, where she was inspired to pursue scientific research as a career. She credits her recent success to her mentors, as well as to her involvement in two summer internships: one at the University of California, Berkeley, where she assisted in breast and prostate cancer research, and the other at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. Ms. San Roman is currently working on her thesis at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. In the future, she would like to be a biology professor and have her own research lab. “I like knowing that the work I am doing will have a positive impact.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7111 Wed, 03 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The New York State Council of Administrators for Music Education has selected three high school seniors to participate in the All-County Music Festival. Jonathan Chun, Kirsten Crovello and Rebecca Spinner will be performing at Connetquot High School on Nov. 7 and at Northport High School on Nov. 15 and 16, 2012. The festival features a collaboration of the top 11th- and 12th-grade musicians from Suffolk County. Students were selected on a competitive basis, with NYSSMA scores as the main criteria along with teacher recommendations. Jonathan will also be representing the district at the New York State School Music Association All-State Winter Conference in Rochester from Nov. 29 to Dec. 2, 2012. There he will be performing among the finest high school students from the state. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7081 Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Monday, Oct. 1, 10 representatives from Prudential Financial of Melville joined together with select students from the elementary school to begin working on the school’s butterfly exploratorium. Also in attendance were Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert, representatives from the school’s PTA and Royal Education Foundation, Director of the Port Jefferson Free Library Robert Goykin and parents. The project is part of Prudential’s Global Volunteer Day, an annual initiative during which Prudential Financial employees and their families and friends donate hundreds of thousands of hours to projects designed to better their local communities. “I had a vision for the school’s courtyard to become a living science project,” stated parent and coordinator Laura Hill Timpanaro. Team members and students worked together to plant flowers and butterfly bushes, create and set up pinwheels, position benches and handprint paint a birdbath in school colors -- all of which were donated by local businesses. Students also decorated rocks with wishes written on them. “A dream needs to build upon something strong, which is why we chose rocks,” said Ms. Timpanaro. “It is also Prudential’s symbol and an icon of strength, stability and innovation.” Though only a handful of students were chosen to participate in the groundbreaking activities, every grade will have an opportunity to participate and make their contributions to the exploratorium during class time. “The younger students are learning about butterflies and will utilize the butterfly bushes for observation,” said Ms. Timpanaro. “A music class will make wind chimes, an art class will create kaleidoscopes and kinetic sculptures; the lesson possibilities go on and on.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7073 Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The district recently announced high school senior Zachary Graziano as a National Merit semifinalist. The National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships that high school students enter by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test and by meeting program entry and participation requirements. Zachary is one of only 16,000 students throughout the country to achieve this honor, which signifies that he is among the highest-scoring entrants in New York State. “Zachary is a multi-talented student who excels in all academic areas,” stated science teacher and Science Olympiad coach Michel Krivosta. “He has a very outgoing personality and loves to be with people. He is a natural leader.” Zachary is one of the top students on the High School Science Olympiad Team and has won numerous medals at competitions. He is also captain of the Academic Team. Zachary began as one of the 1.5 million high school students who took the PSAT/NMSQT last October. Semifinalists who have advanced to finalist standing by meeting high academic standards and all other requirements will be notified this coming February. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7038 Sun, 30 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Port Jefferson School District is pleased to announce that our Annual Professional Performance Review (APPR) Plan has been approved by the New York State Education Department for the 2012-2013 school year. The original proposal plan was first submitted in July 2012 and received tremendous praise from the state. Required revisions were made earlier this month and have now been finalized and accepted. APPR Approval Letter Click Here to View the APPR Plans http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7010 Thu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT A special meeting of the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education will be held on October 1, 2012, 6:00 p.m., at the District Office, for the purpose of entering executive session to discuss matters related to personnel, pending litigation, and for other business as may be needed. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6941 Mon, 24 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Monday, Sept. 24, the third-grade class took a field trip to Mount Sinai Harbor for a salt marsh exploration. Principal Thomas Meehan, teachers and parent chaperones accompanied students along the shore and guided them through their lesson. Upon arrival, students and team leaders broke off into small groups and hit the beach. Children had the task of investigating plant and animal life, soil temperature and wind speed at low, intertidal and high tide stations. Observations were then recorded and discussed within the groups. Classmates were also given the opportunity to explore the local marine habitat and study shells, crabs and clams that they found along the beach. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6963 Mon, 24 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Monday, Sept. 24, students from the high school and middle school, as well as the fifth-grade class, attended workshops presented by Motivational Media Assemblies as part of their Peace Day observance. High school and middle school students participated in the “Take the Lead” program, which reinforced the idea that everyone has the power to make a positive impact and influence what happens in our world. Elementary school students took part in the “Rise & Shine” program, which motivated children to adopt a positive outlook in order to rise above challenges and achieve great things. “I think that the students not only learned from these presentations, but also enjoyed them because they are contemporary,” said Port Jefferson Middle School Principal Antonio Santana. “The goal is to encourage positive decision-making by having follow-up classroom discussions and time for students to reflect. It’s never too late to do the right thing.” The Take the Lead program addressed difficult issues and topics such as self-confidence, peer pressure, accountability and the growing society of passive citizens, and encouraged students to become leaders that can change these issues and save lives. The Rise & Shine presentation emphasized the importance of building life around attitude, ability and adaptability. A strong, positive outlook was depicted as the key to overcoming status issues, bullying and racial tension, and as the most important element in learning to love oneself and others and unlocking one’s unlimited potential. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6971 Mon, 24 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT This is a reminder that tomorrow, Friday October 19thall schools will dismiss 15 minutes early to hold required New York Stateemergency evacuation drills. Please be sure your child knows your established plan if it is different from the normal daily routine. There will beno late busses for our MS/HS students at 3:10. Therefore, athletesthatneed to go to Scraggy Field must go on a bus immediately after school.Students canuse Bus "K", "A", "C" OR "I". Please be advised thatthere will be no academic late busses at 3:10. The 4:10 late bus will run. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7310 Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Graduates from the Class of 1962 gathered at Earl L. Vandermeulen High School on Friday, Sept. 14 for their 50-year reunion. The three-day event began with a greeting and tour of the high school given by Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert and Facilities Director Fred Koebel. Festivities continued Saturday night with a dinner at the Port Jefferson Village Center and concluded with brunch at Schafer’s Restaurant on Sunday morning. “It’s just so nice to walk around the school,” said alumna Joan Curry. “It brings back so many memories.” Though the building has not changed tremendously over the years, the district itself has. “Port Jefferson used to be a regional high school,” stated former graduate Bill Connors. “Kids from Manorville, Comsewogue, Shirley, Mastic and more used to come here because it was really the only school around.” Putting together a reunion, which took a planning committee a year and a half to coordinate, was no easy task. “It was very difficult to locate everyone for a number of different reasons,” stated committee member Carol Simco. “Not everyone has Facebook or even the same last name as [they had] in high school.” Nevertheless, the six members of the planning committee were able to contact 70 percent of the approximate 325 graduates and had over 50 people attend. Committee member Kathy Reeves commented, “Even though we haven’t seen each other in so long, it is still a comfortable group to be around because everyone knows you and accepts you for who you are.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6866 Sun, 16 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Two Year Agreement includes “Hard” Freeze in 2012-13, and Helps Prepare District for the Uncertainties Associated With Future LIPA Revenue The Port Jefferson Board of Education and Port Jefferson Teachers Association have approved a two-year contract to replace the contract that expired on June 30th, 2011. The new two-year contract calls for no increase in salary (beyond step for those eligible) for 2011-12, along with a hard freeze for 2012-13 (no increase in salary or step). “The Board appreciates the efforts of the PJTA leadership and their members in negotiating an agreement reflective of the difficult economic situation our community faces," said Board of Education President Kathleen Brennan. "There will most likely continue to be the need for shared sacrifice as we move forward. Hopefully all stakeholders can work together respectfully and cooperatively to provide our students with the best education possible." Port Jefferson UFSD, along with other community governmental agencies, has cited great concern for the future of the power plant located in Port Jefferson Harbor. A reassessment has been filed with the Town of Brookhaven, which has the potential to reduce revenues of the district by millions of dollars, jeopardizing staffing, programs, and the current residential tax rate. “A number of faculty members live here, but all of us understand the challenges posed by the loss of revenue,” said Brian Snow, the President of the PJTA. “The more information we have in the future, the better we will be able to establish a new contract that is in the best interests of everyone.” Another amendment to the expired contract will have a positive impact on instruction. Teachers will now have an average of 7.5 prep periods every week, a reduction from 9 last year (and 10 during the 2010-11 school year). Current levels of instruciton have been maintained in the areas of Physical Education, Art, Library and Music. Elementary students will attend swimming and Health every other week, increasing classroom contact on the average of 60 minutes per week. In addition, classroom teachers will accompany students and lead curriculum related instruction within the technology lab. Outstanding grievances by the PJTA against the district have been discontinued as a result of the new contract. The parties also agreed to concurrent use of paid FMLA childcare, resulting in a new formula that requires the use of two banked sick days for each day of paid FMLA childcare leave. The financial impact of this new formula will lower the district’s costs for accrued time payouts at the time of retirment while allowing for continuity of instruction when leaves are taken. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6805 Tue, 11 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Tuesday, Sept. 11, the Port Jefferson Fire Department held a memorial ceremony at their firehouse for all those affected by the terrorist attacks that occurred on Sept. 11, 2001. Local firefighters, police officers and other key members of the Port Jefferson community were in attendance to reflect and offer their respects. Members of the Edna Louise Spear Elementary School fifth-grade class, led by music instructor Jessica Pastor, sang “God Bless America” at the start of the service. Former Port Jefferson Fire Department Chief Desmond O’Sullivan recognized the elementary students present and pronounced them as “the bright future of our world.” He emphasized how important it is for younger generations to learn about 9/11 and to “never forget what this day is about.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6789 Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Community Activities: The Community Fitness Center is now open Monday - Thursday's from 5:30 - 7:30 (When School is in session) Community Swim and After-school Swim will begin on October 15th. Community Swim will be from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Monday and Wednesday's. After-school for “ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS ONLY” will be Wednesdays from 3:30-4:30 http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6774 Sun, 09 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Despite inclement weather, students and faculty throughout the district were off to a bright start for the first day of school on Tuesday, Sept. 4. Middle and high school students began arriving around 7:15 a.m. to get a head start on their day. The schools’ faculty and staff, along with Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert, greeted the children as they entered the building. Students at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School received a similar warm welcome later in the morning as they began their academic year. The district wishes all students and staff a successful 2012-2013 school year and looks forward to a wonderful year ahead. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6716 Tue, 04 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Faculty, staff and board members attended the start of a two-day Superintendent’s Conference at Earl L. Vandermeulen High School on Wednesday, Aug. 29. The theme for this year’s conference was “The Race for Excellence Has No Finish Line.” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert welcomed attendees and provided an overview of ongoing district initiatives. Board of Education President Kathleen Brennan also addressed faculty and staff and encouraged them to take pride in their work throughout the school year. Brian Snow, president of the Port Jefferson Teachers Association, offered his remarks, reminding those in attendance of the character that Port Jefferson has and how it will be the driving force behind their success. During the conference days, new staff members were also introduced and four Royal Educational Foundation mini-grants were awarded. A variety of meetings and workshops were held to help prepare faculty and staff for the upcoming school year. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6733 Mon, 03 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Thursday, Aug. 16, the Port Jefferson Middle School hosted its annual barbeque for incoming sixth-graders. During the summer-themed event, parents and students were given the opportunity to meet with administrators and discuss the upcoming school year. Within a tropical setting of festive decorations, island music and Hawaiian leis, parents served the faculty and students hot dogs, hamburgers and other grilled favorites. New Middle School Principal Antonio Santana was one of the faculty members in attendance. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6755 Sun, 02 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Only One in Suffolk County! New York State Education Commissioner John King has announced that all three of the district’s schools have been designated as Reward Schools for the 2012-2013 school year. This prestigious statewide designation classifies Edna Louise Spear Elementary School, Port Jefferson Middle School and Earl L. Vandermeulen High School among the highest achieving in the state, and Port Jefferson is the only district in Suffolk County to achieve this status! The New York State Department of Education bestowed these awards based on high student performance on state assessments, graduation rates and overall academic progress. Port Jefferson is now eligible to compete for a Commissioner’s Schools Dissemination Grant of up to $150,000 to further advance students’ educational opportunities. Congratulations to the students, staff, and families of the district! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6684 Thu, 30 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT PORT JEFFERSON SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING NOTICE A special meeting of the Board of Education of Port Jefferson School District will be held on August 29, 2012, 11:00 a.m., at the District Office, for the purpose of acting onrecommendations of the Committee on Special Education, and other business as may be needed. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6646 Tue, 28 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6617 Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT District fourth-grade elementary students culminated their social studies unit with a historically accurate reenactment of a trip to Ellis Island. In the simulation, students dressed in traditional garb, portraying the experiences of immigrants arriving in the United States in the early 1900s. Students were processed through various checkpoint stations and ultimately pledged their loyalty oath and were welcomed to America. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6530 Mon, 30 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT Joe Gerbino was named the 2012 Most Valuable Player for League IX. As an All-County selection, Joe batted over .500 with 32 RBIs. He has been a three-year starting catcher and a key member of the Port Jefferson Baseball Program. In the accompanying photo, Joe is being honored on Senior Day with his parents Sal and Julie Gerbino. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6531 Sun, 29 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT 2012 Assessment Results for Grades 3-8 From the Office of Curriculum & Instruction On July 17, 2012, the NYS Education Department released the results of the April 2012 ELA and math assessments for grades 3-8. A three-year summary of assessment results can be found at the links below. In each report, the data are organized by year, covering 2012, 2011, and 2010. Reading across each section, you will find: * Percent Proficient * % of change (+/-) from the year before (for 2012 and 2011 results) * % above or below the Proficiency average for Suffolk County * Ranking in Suffolk County * % of students earning a Level 4 in Port Jefferson and Suffolk County There will be a formal presentation of these results to the Board of Education and Community at a Board of Education meeting in October. Parents will receive individual score reports by mail within the next few weeks, as soon as they are available from Eastern Suffolk Boces. Grades 3-8 ELA Results, 2010-2012 Grades 3-8 Math Results, 2010-2012 http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6519 Fri, 27 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT Elementary student Olivia Schlegel received honorable mention at the Brookhaven National Lab Science Fair for her project "Does age effect lung capacity?" Students received the President’s Volunteer Service Award to recognize the valuable contributions they have made in the community and district and to encourage more people to serve in the same manner. Students placed among the top in the county in their respective levels in the Suffolk County Math Exam. Sixth-grade students completed the school’s rigorous science research course and participated in the Toshiba and National Science Teachers Association’s ExploraVision national competition. Middle school student Peter Burawa took honorable mention for his project “Preserving Food System (PFS).” Latin language students scored among the highest in the National Latin Exam. Board of Education student representative Nicole Capobianco was thanked for her service and important role throughout the school year. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6506 Mon, 23 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT A special meeting of the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education will be held on July 23, 2012, 6:00 p.m., at the District Office, for the purpose of entering executive session to discuss a pending legal matter and other business as may be needed. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6477 Tue, 17 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT With the closeof the 2011-2012 school year, Power School has removed the grade book from the Parent Portal.Report cardgrades can still be viewedon the Parent Portal in the Grade History section. A key of the abbreviations usedis included at the bottom of that page. Please contactyour school'sGuidance Officeif you would like a detailed reportof the grades fora particular quarter. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6448 Wed, 11 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT An emergency meeting of the Board of Education has been scheduled for July 12, 2012, 6:00 p.m., at the District Office, for the purpose of entering executive session to discuss a pending legal matter. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6443 Tue, 10 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT The annual reorganization and regular monthly business meeting of the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education will be held on July 2, 2012, commencing at 6:00 p.m., in the Large Group Room at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6410 Mon, 02 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT Implementing the New APPR (Annual Professional Performance Review) in Port Jefferson - Presentation APPR Teacher Plan Port Jefferson UFSD Principal APPR Plan Presentation APPR Principal Plan http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6407 Sun, 01 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT James Burke impressed down in Greensboro, North Carolina, at the New Balance Outdoor Nationals, winning the freshman mile in a time of 4:22.27. James’ victory puts the cap on an excellent season that included a second place finish in the Division 2 1600m run at the NYS championships and seventh place finishes at that same meet in the 3200m and 4x800m relay. The goal of a national freshman championship in the mile had been present for James since the indoor national championships, where he finished third. He came into the outdoor race as the top-ranked athlete in the field, after running a personal best of 4:16.68 in the 1600m at the state qualifier meet. “When you’re ranked number one you have a lot to lose,” he said. “I decided that I wasn’t going to lose it”. Port Jefferson sent several other athletes down to the national meet. UMBC-bound Andrew Keresztes finished off his high school track career with a personal best in the 800m of 1:52.08, fast enough to give him a tenth place finish. Sophomore Danny Gross finished seventh in the octathlon, and the relay team of Keresztes, Gross, Ben Neiman, and Dennis Walsh finished 24th in the sprint medley. Though the team graduates several seniors, including Keresztes and Neiman (who will be attending Carnegie Mellon University in the fall), they look to be strong for the next few years, as they return Burke, Gross, and Walsh, as well as Noah Kirchner and Connor Crovello, who competed in the state meet. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6393 Wed, 27 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click HERE for Summer Reading Information http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6325 Sun, 24 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the Class of 2012 who, on June 22, officially became the newest Earl L. Vandermeulen High School alumni. With proud family and friends looking on and taking photographs, Principal Roseanne Cirnigliaro, Valedictorian Allison Cluett and Salutatorian Katharina Ross were among the speakers who addressed the graduates, encouraging them to embrace the future and strive for greatness. Students were then presented with their diplomas amid the cheers and applause of a proud community. Best wishes for future success! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6333 Sun, 24 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Port Jefferson Middle School students entered through a bouquet of purple and white balloons and took center stage for the eighth-grade moving-up ceremony. The national anthem and “A Salute to Freedom,” performed by the seventh and eighth-grade band under the direction of Edward Pisano, got the ceremony off to a patriotic and festive start. Principal Roseann Cirnigliaro welcomed the students and thanked their families for supporting their academic, athletic and extracurricular endeavors throughout their middle school years. Eighth-grade class president Liane Russell shared the Class of 2016 reflections, which highlighted periods of growth, defined by the highs and lows of maturing. She noted that these shared experiences have made them stronger as individuals and as a class and have ultimately prepared them for the next step, which will bring its own set of new challenges. Department staff then presented special academic and achievement awards in various curricular areas, while community organizations including the American Legion and Rotary Club selected scholarship recipients based on the student’s service and outreach. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert congratulated the class on their accomplishments and encouraged them to take advantage of the various clubs and programs available to them at the high school. These opportunities will equip students with the tools to be successful and allow them to explore diverse areas of interest to reach their full potential. To conclude the ceremony, Board of Education members and Dr. Bossert presented students with their diplomas as teachers announced each student. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6370 Sat, 23 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The fifth-grade class at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School in the Port Jefferson School District reached a milestone in their educational careers as they celebrated their moving-up. Parents and faculty members stood proudly during the processional as the graduates marched to the stage while “Pomp and Circumstance” played in the background. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert congratulated the parents for their support of education and Principal Thomas Meehan on the announcement that he will remain the leader at the elementary school for the next several years. To the students, he stated that middle school is what you make of it. “Strike a balance with what works for you,” he advised. On behalf of the Fifth-Grade Graduation Committee, Holly Caltagirone and Kate Kaming presented the class gift, a personalized brick for the Public Library walkway. Parent guest speakers John Kelsch, Tara Petracca and Carla Sciara also dispensed words of wisdom to the graduates, which included giving middle school their best effort, continuing to be nice and cherishing their dreams. Mr. Meehan told the students that they have changed his life in a positive way. He also encouraged them to read, volunteer, find time to walk each day and make the earth a more beautiful place. As a final activity together, the class sang a hip version of the song “Graduation” written by conductor Andy Fortier. Each student then approached the stage to receive their certificates of completion, marking their road to middle school. The new middle schoolers then marched in the recessional to the cafeteria for refreshments with family, administrators and teachers. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6371 Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT A special meeting of the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education will be held on June 28, 2012, 6:00 p.m., in the large group room at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School, for the purpose of approving the APPR Plan, and other business as may be needed. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6312 Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The 5th Grade Moving Up, 8th Grade Moving up and High School Graduation ceremonies will all be broadcast LIVE over the Internet. 5th Grade Moving Up will begin at 7 PM on Wednesday June 20th 8th Grade Moving Up will begin at 6:30 PM on Thursday June 21st High School Graduation will begin at 6 PM on Friday June 22nd On a PC or MAC You will need the most current Real Player to view the LIVE stream. It can be downloaded by following the link below: Click HERE for the Real Player Download Click HERE to start the LIVE Stream on your Computer with the Real Player Click HERE to start the LIVE Stream on your iPod/iPhone/iPad Each ceremony will be posted to the building web page the morning after the event. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6253 Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The boys varsity soccer team received their state championship rings at an event hosted by the Richard and Mary Morrison family at Graceful Rose Restaurant in Port Jefferson. At the ceremony, Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics Debra Ferry presented the rings, which were donated by the Richard and Mary Morrison Foundation, to each member of the squad, while Superintendent of Schools Kenneth Bossert delivered the proclamation from Senator Ken LaValle’s office. In addition, students received a championship sweatshirt to commemorate their prestigious victory, courtesy of head varsity coach John Poulianos. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6264 Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The National Junior Honor Society, led by advisor and district social worker Kristin Britt and in conjunction with the Brett family, organized a high school/middle school community outreach book drive. Students, staff and community members donated new and gently-used books to be distributed to local shelters across Long Island. As a result of these efforts, 1,300 books were delivered to children and young adults, and Port Jeff successfully spread a love for reading and literature. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6271 Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Port Jefferson track athletes competed in the New York State Track Meet, which took place at Cicero-North High School in Syracuse. Ben Neiman Andrew Keresztes Connor Crovello Katharina Ross Noah Kirchner receiving handoff from Dennis Walsh in the 4x800 Andrew Keresztes James Burke http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6245 Mon, 18 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Earl L. Vandermeulen High School junior Constantine Spentzos finished in a tie for 13th place in the Suffolk County Golf Championships held at Indian Island Golf Course. Approximately 250 male and female student-athletes participated in day one of the tournament, with only the top 30 players advancing to day two. Spentzos shot impressive rounds of 76 and 83, succeeding in the difficult course conditions. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6244 Sun, 17 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT This spring the High School Interact Club, in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity, took a field trip to Central Islip to help build two houses. Students were instructed on construction site safety and how to transport building materials. Working together, the club members brought in and secured sheetrock to the frames of both houses, building out their walls, as well as installed insulation for one of the homes. At the end of the day, students had the opportunity to write notes to the future owners on the beams of the houses. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6212 Thu, 14 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT More than 100 Edna Louise Spear Elementary students gathered at Long Island Sound’s West Beach to watch the release of their grey seal Edna as part of the Marine Mammal & Sea Turtle Rescue Program. The Riverhead Foundation Seal Release Project was the culmination of the third-grade marine science unit where students conducted environmental research and preservation studies. Students had the opportunity to meet Edna and learn about the tracking device she will wear during her travels. The device will enable scientists and students to collect data before it eventually falls off as she sheds her fur. In addition to the seal release, students also participated in a beach cleanup at West Beach. This unique program was made possible through a grant provided by the Royal Education Foundation. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6178 Wed, 13 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School look forward to the Friday morning announcements ever since the “Scraggy News” hit the airways. Each week at 9 a.m., students begin their day with a live broadcast brought to them in their classrooms via webcam and SmartBoards. Traditional morning messages announced over the PA system have transformed into interactive sessions where students get active and learn. Student broadcasters communicate important school news, including fundraisers, accomplishments and events, while special segments provide weekend weather reports. To promote healthy living, students demonstrate yoga poses and showcase their talents through musical performances. This innovative forum allows students to explore journalism and elements of production and provides a new way to engage and involve the school community. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6174 Tue, 12 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The regular monthly business meeting of the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education will be held on June 12, 2012, 7:30 p.m., in the auditorium at Earl L.Vandermeulen High School. The Board will be meeting at executive session at 6:00 p.m. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6121 Mon, 11 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT High school senior track athletes Andrew Keresztes and Fred Agostino, with teammates Dennis and James Burke, beat the school record in the 4 x 800 relay with an impressive time of 7:59.75. In addition, the Girls4 x 100-meter relay team consisting of Andrea Fowara (12), Allegra Fils-Aime (9), Michiko McGivney (12), and Katharina Ross (12) set a new school record with a time of51.85 seconds. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6116 Thu, 07 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Port Jefferson fifth and sixth-grade band students had the honor of performing the national anthem at the Bethpage Ballpark as the Long Island Ducks took the field against the Bridgeport Bluefish. This event, organized by elementary music teacher Mark Abbonizio, doubled as a fundraiser for the Class of 2019, as many Port Jefferson parents and family members attended the game in support of the student musicians. Congratulations to all of the students that performed as well as their music teacher, Mr. Abbonizio. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6014 Thu, 31 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The High School Interact Club and Middle School National Junior Honor Society traveled to Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck in Center Moriches for a community service activity in conjunction with the Port Jefferson Rotarians. Students came together to volunteer their time and improve the camp’s facilities before summer campers arrive. Interact Club members worked diligently to paint and stain 32 tables and 61 benches, which are used for various social and artistic activities, while Junior Honor Society members planted flowers, raked, mulched and spruced up part of Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck's "face," which greets visitors when they enter the camp. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6015 Wed, 30 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Fourth and fifth-grade band and orchestra students from Edna Louise Spear Elementary School presented an outdoor concert for parents and community members. Audience members brought lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy selections performed by the talented musicians, led by music teachers Mark Abbonizio and Christian Neubert. A special thanks to the elementary custodial staff and grounds crew, as well as Director of Music and Fine Arts Michael Caravello, for making this unique concert opportunity possible. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6016 Tue, 29 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The High School Wind Ensemble attended the NYSSMA Major Organization Festival at Patchogue-Medford High School and were awarded a silver medal for their outstanding performance. The competitive festival was structured to showcase student bands, which performed several pieces for a panel of adjudicators. The panel evaluated the ensemble based on their quality of performance and level of musicianship. Congratulations to the band and their teacher, Christine Creighton, on this prestigious accomplishment. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6017 Mon, 28 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Edna Louise Spear Elementary School’s Math Olympiads competed and placed in the 5th Annual Suffolk County Math Tournament at Stony Brook University. Approximately 250 students from Suffolk County, comprising 50 teams, participated in this academic event, with two teams representing Port Jefferson. Following rounds of competition, Port Jefferson students Annalisa Welinder and Mayu Takeuchi won high individual honors, achieving first place and second place, respectively, out of all contestants. In the team portion, Edna Louise Spear Elementary School received both first and second-place trophies in the 4th/5th grade category. Congratulations to all of the district students who participated and helped Port Jefferson achieve its impressive wins: Annalisa Welinder, Mayu Takeuchi, Hannah Weidermann, David Rotunno, Jillian Lawler, Francine Leung, Sarah Hull, Gavin Barrett, Hyun Jin Lee and Jessica Zhang. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5909 Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Every spring, the students at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School participate in a fitness unit called Walk Across America as part of their physical education curriculum. Over a period of about five weeks, students accumulate miles by running and walking during their PE classes. PE teachers track how many miles each grade level travels by plotting its progress on a map of the United States. The grade levels compete as they travel across different states on the map in a race across the country, which ends in California over 3,000 miles away! The program engages students in friendly competition as they learn about the different states, all while building their physical fitness. This unit culminated with the Annual Walk/Run event. Friends and family members joined students on race day, which took place on the brand new “cross country” course that follows the perimeter of the school property. The trail run took participants up and down rolling hills, including an exciting wooded trail, and finally finished on the athletic fields adjacent to the school on Scraggy Hill Road. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5910 Wed, 23 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Port Jefferson Announces Administrative Appointments The Port Jefferson School District has appointed Antonio Santana as the principal of the middle school. Mr. Santana comes to the district after serving as the junior high school assistant principal in the Three Village School District, where his responsibilities included personnel, student management, scheduling and assessments, and special programs and community outreach. Prior to his service in Three Village, Mr. Santana was the science department chairperson at the Valley Stream Central High School. During his time there, he instituted fundamental changes that not only increased student enrollment and success, but also fostered an academic environment that was comprehensive in both scope and rigor. “Throughout my career as an educator, I have found my most rewarding experiences to be those where I am working closely with students, motivating them to reach their full potential and harnessing their positive energy to drive education forward,” explained Mr. Santana. “I plan to bring this philosophy of open discourse and supportive learning to Port Jefferson and work to connect with students during this critical time of growth in their social and academic lives.” Mr. Santana began his educational career at Cornell University, where he received a bachelor of science in communication, and advanced his degree to a master of science in school administration and supervision from Touro College. In addition, he holds New York State certifications in biology and as School District Administrator and Supervisor. In addition to Mr. Santana joining the district’s administrative team, two current internal administrators will realign their positions to better serve the student body. Port Jefferson’s Director of English Language Arts & Social Studies PreK-12 Maureen Hull will assume the position of Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction, and Port Jefferson High/Middle School Assistant Principal Peter Esposito will now act as Assistant Principal and Director of Technology PreK-12. “As a district, we have made the prudent decision to restructure select administrative positions to effectively adapt to changes within the educational system,” stated Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert. “We have analyzed all components of our district, both academically and operationally, and have formulated a group of seasoned educators comprised of those who have detailed knowledge of our district and those with a fresh perspective who will work towards our common goals.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5873 Wed, 23 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education is pleased to announce that it has unanimously approved an extension of Superintendent Kenneth Bossert’s contract through June 30th, 2017. There are no significant changes to the terms and conditions of the contract, and no changes in compensation. At its core, the new five-year agreement replaces the existing three-year agreement with the Superintendent. Dr. Bossert’s original three-year contract was in force through June 30, 2014. His base salary of $195,000 for the current school year will not change for the 2012-13 school year, as Dr. Bossert has voluntarily waived a contractual increase tied to the CPI (Consumer Price Index) that would have provided him with a 3.2% increase in salary for next year. "The Board of Education is very pleased with Dr. Bossert's performance in 2011-12, and his dedicated service to the district thus far gives us great confidence that he is the right person to lead the district through the very uncertain future," said Board of Education President Dr. Mark Doyle. Dr. Doyle identifies that over the course of the past year, Dr. Bossert has remade the district's leadership team; delivered a successful budget that prepares the district well for the anticipated LIPA-based revenue difficulties of the near term; and changed or recalibrated numerous areas of instructional practice. In addition to the LIPA uncertainties, Dr. Doyle noted that significant challenges for the Superintendent in the near future include resolution of the outstanding contractual agreement with the district's teachers, alignment of the district's curriculum with the Common Core Standards, and institution of the APPR (teacher evaluation) requirements. "As we face these challenges, the Board of Education and the community need to have confidence in leadership continuity," said Dr. Doyle. "Dr. Bossert has demonstrated vision, sensitivity, and thoughtful reflection on the challenges we faced this year, and we are certain that as both an employee and and a community member, he will continue to exercise these qualities on behalf of the community." "I'm delighted in the Board's confidence in my leadership and proud to be Port Jefferson's Superintendent of Schools," said Dr. Bossert. "We are, without question, living in a new environment, and all that we do - with our contracts, our instructional practices, our management practices, and every other facet of district operation - must evolve to match the reality of this new world. I am incredibly confident that the Port Jefferson community is prepared to address these changes in a profound manner, one that will only improve our standing as an excellent public school district." http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5891 Wed, 23 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT In honor of National Nurses Week, elementary string students from Edna Louise Spear Elementary School brought their musical magic to Mather Hospital for an entertaining outdoor performance for nurses, patients, parents and Mather Hospital staff and administrators to enjoy. Special thanks to their teacher, Mr. Christian Neubert, for organizing this unique performance opportunity. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5911 Tue, 22 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Port Jefferson Schools Looks Forward By Dr. Kenneth Bossert, Superintendent of Schools This past Tuesday, the school budget was approved by a substantial margin, and two incumbents were returned to the Board of Education, who will be joined by a new member of the Board. I suppose it would be easy to simply say ‘thank you’ to the community for its participation at the polls and support of the district, but somehow that feels incomplete. I am grateful that the process we use in this State to fund public education resulted in a strong affirmation of the proposed budget. I’m thankful for the hard work and support of many people, and the validation of our work on behalf of the students and taxpayers of the community that the ‘yes’ vote represents. Make no mistake: as your Superintendent, one of my most important jobs is bringing the community to a place of consensus regarding how we support our schools. However, I care as much about the thoughts and concerns of those who voted ‘no’ as much as I do for those who voted ‘yes.’ I care a great deal about the inevitability of significant change that will be imposed on our district through the disposition of the LIPA issue, and how destabilizing we can allow this to become if we do not remember our “It takes a Village” mantra. It is only through hard work and collaboration that this impending economic crisis will be met with success. We find ourselves in a similar situation (which could be as soon as only months from now) to a neighboring community that was forced to wean itself from its major taxpayer over a period of ten years. The resulting difficulties, borne from competing priorities and absence of unified vision, had a tremendously detrimental impact on students, the schools, and the community. We cannot let that happen to us. As a small community of friends and neighbors, we must rely upon ourselves not to pick sides, but to agree upon the vision. We must work not to bemoan our fate, but to use it as the impetus for coming together in support of the next chapter of our district. Change surrounds us, and will always be difficult to manage. We have entered an era in which existing paradigms are falling away. We are demanding more of our teachers, our students, our parents, and our leaders, while coping with a massive adjustment in funding parameters, which will eventually change the nature of all school business transactions. Can we do this as partners for the sake of our schools and community? I believe so. In addition to being your Superintendent of Schools, I am a proud resident and parent of Port Jefferson. To me, Port Jefferson is better prepared to cope with change than most other communities on Long Island. I am committed, as is your Board, to addressing our future in a positive, inclusive manner. So as we reflect on the events of the recent budget vote and election, let us not forget that great challenges await us, ready to be addressed by the community of the whole. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5842 Mon, 21 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Port Jefferson School District has built a legacy of academic achievement and tradition in providing all students with an exceptional educational experience. This dedication to academics has been recognized, as the district has been ranked among the top in the nation. The district was featured on Newsweek’s America’s Best High Schools of 2012, with Earl L. Vandermeulen High School placing 112th in the nation and 2nd in Suffolk County. The rankings highlight the best 1,000 public high schools in the nation—the ones that have proven to be the most effective in turning out college-ready grads. The list is based on six components provided by school administrators: graduation rate (25 percent), college matriculation rate (25 percent), AP/IB/AICE tests taken per student (25 percent), average SAT/ACT scores (10 percent), average AP/IB/AICE scores (10 percent), and AP courses offered per student (5 percent). In addition, according to the recent results of The Washington Post’s High School Challenge, Earl L. Vandermeulen High School ranks 386 out of 1,900 schools nationally, placing them 51st in the Northeast, 35th in New York State and 3rd in Suffolk County. Researchers analyzed and calculated an index score for each school using the number of college-level tests given at a school in 2011 and divided by the number of graduates that year. Also noted are the percentage of students who come from families that qualify for lunch subsidies and the percentage of graduates who passed at least one college-level test during their high school career, called equity and excellence (E&E). “As an educational community, we strive to advance curriculum and engage students in differentiated learning. These collaborative efforts from administrators, teachers and support staff foster a supportive atmosphere for students to excel in,” stated Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert. He continued, “The data reported illustrates how our students achieve throughout their educational careers and succeed beyond graduation.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5863 Mon, 21 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The English Department at Port Jefferson Middle School is proud to launch another One Book, One School project! This year’s theme is ‘raise your voice against bullying’. From May 14 – May 24, Port Jefferson Middle School students, teachers, and support staff members will be engaged in reading Bystander, by James Preller. The story takes place at a fictional school on Long Island. The characters face the adolescent struggles of wanting to be accepted, recognizing when someone is being bullied, deciding to remain silent or speak up, and facing the consequences of their decisions. It is our hope that students will recognize the power of the silent majority when they raise their own voices against bullying. School displays will highlight figures in society who have made the decision to speak up. Students will explore the themes of the book during their English classes and we hope many spontaneous conversations will occur as our entire school community engages with this book. Students will participate in activities such as: workshops, character education projects, text analysis, vocabulary study, and identifying significant quotes. A book is better when you share it! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5765 Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The High School Leo Club participated in the March of Dimes’ March for Babies event. Club members and supporters completed a 3-mile charity walk around Stony Brook University and raised $435 for the organization. The district’s donation will support community programs that help moms have healthy, full-term pregnancies and will fund research to find answers to the problems that threaten babies. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5787 Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Sixty-two eighth-grade middle school students had the opportunity to visit the national's capital for an educational and enlightening trip. During their time in Washington, DC, students visited the city’s impressive monuments, including the brand new Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. Students also explored the National Zoo and the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History, and were especially impressed by the Abraham Lincoln Assassination nighttime walking tour. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5789 Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Budget Proposition Yes - 787 No - 342 Trustee Elections Mark Doyle - 632 Shawn Cohen - 296 Ellen Boehm - 525 James Laffey - 604 Vincent Ruggiero - 571 http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5732 Tue, 15 May 2012 21:00:00 GMT The fifth annual Instrument Petting Zoo was held at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School. Members of the high school instrumental ensembles traveled to the elementary school to give third-grade students an opportunity to get an up-close look at all the instruments of the band and orchestra. Students were able to hear the instruments performed, ask questions about how each instrument works, and experience the excitement of holding the instruments, many of them for the first time. In the coming weeks, these same third graders will be selecting the instrument they would like to begin learning in the fall. A special thanks to band teachers Christine Creighton and Mark Abbonizio for organizing this event. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5724 Mon, 14 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT PORT JEFFERSON SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTICE OF MEETINGS Aspecial meeting of the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education will be held on May 15, 2012, 9:30 p.m., in the cafeteria at Earl L. Vandermeulen High School, for the purpose of accepting the results of the budget vote/ trustee election and to take action on any other necessary business arising from the election. The May 22, 2012 work session of the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education has been changed to a special meeting, 7:00 p.m., in the large group room at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School for the purpose of acting on personnel resolutions and other business as may be needed. The Board will be meeting in executive session at 6:00 p.m. to discuss personnel and legal matters. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5642 Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Personnel Announcement At the May 8, 2012 regular business meeting of the Board of Education, Dr. Matthew Murphy was unanimously appointed to be the new principal of Earl L. Vandermeulen High School effective July 1. Dr. Murphy comes to Port Jefferson from the Hauppauge School District, where he served for five years as the K-12 Director of Math. During his time in Hauppauge, Dr. Murphy has been instrumental in the implementation of new curriculum aligned with the Common Core standards as well as movement toward International Baccalaureate (IB) certification. Prior to his work in Hauppauge, Dr. Murphy served as both the Director of Math and Science and the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction in the South Country Central School District. Dr. Murphy’s teaching experience took place in the Smithtown School District. In addition to his certification in School District Administration, Dr. Murphy is certified in Mathematics, Physics and General Science. Dr. Murphy obtained his doctorate in Educational Administration, Leadership and Technology from Dowling College in 2009. After his appointment was made official last night, Dr. Murphy addressed the Board of Education and community by saying, “I thank the Superintendent and the Board for this opportunity. I look forward to helping to continue the standard of excellence that the Port Jefferson School District is known for.” Dr. Murphy will have the opportunity to spend some time with Mrs. Cirnigliaro to ensure a smooth transition as our year draws to a close. As the fall approaches, there will be opportunities for parents, students and the community to meet our new High School Principal. Please join me in welcoming Dr. Murphy to our leadership team. Sincerely, Kenneth R. Bossert, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5616 Wed, 09 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT All of our Spring Concerts are being broadcast live over the internet. You will need the Real Player to view the LIVE video stream. It can be downloaded by following the link below: Click HERE for the Real Player Download Click HERE to start the LIVE Stream on your Computer with the Real Player Click HERE to start the LIVE Stream on your iPod/iPhone/iPad Archived video will be available the morning after the concerts on each of the building's home pages under the announcements section. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5626 Wed, 09 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Please recall that due to the mild winter and the lack of snow closings, school will not be in session on Friday, May 25 or Tuesday, May 29. We hope you enjoy the extended Memorial Day celebration. Classes will resume for all students on Wednesday, May 30. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5579 Tue, 08 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The High School Robotics Team #496 competed at the Annual F.I.R.S.T. Robotics Long Island Regional competition, with 50 school districts from Long Island and several other states competing at Hofstra University. The F.I.R.S.T. program (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) enables students to work with advisors and mentors with the goal of designing and constructing a competition-ready robot within a six-week build period. After two days of qualifying matches, the team scored highly and qualified for the finals. Overall, the team finished in the top eight at the competition. Community mentors who lent their professional skills in various fields, including science, computer programming and engineering, supported the team’s success. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5536 Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Members of the High School String Chamber Ensemble performed at the Health and Wellness Expo, which took place at Earl L. Vandermeulen High School. The student musicians, including Jonathan Chun (cello), Dunia Karzai (violin), Alberto Rescia (viola), Constantine Spentzos (viola) and Weien Xu (violin), performed classical music selections as attendees walked about the fair visiting a wide array of booths dedicated to all aspects of health, wellness and fitness. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5537 Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The PTA & PTSA Meet the Candidates Night will be streamed LIVE starting at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday May 2, 2012. Archived video will be available the morning after the event. You will need the Real Player to view the LIVE stream. It can be downloaded by following the link below: Click HERE for the Real Player Download Click HERE to start the LIVE Stream on your Computer with the Real Player Click HERE to start the LIVE Stream on your iPod/iPhone/iPad http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5497 Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Edna Louise Spear Elementary "Green Team" joined forces with the Business Improvement District and students from Stony Brook University to help clean up the Village of Port Jefferson in the 9th Annual Earth Day Clean Sweep. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5504 Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Port Jefferson School District was ranked, for the sixth consecutive year, one of the National Association of Music Merchants’ (NAMM) "Best Communities for Music Education." This prestigious designation places Port Jefferson among the top music programs in the nation due to its dynamic course offerings and the unique musical opportunities it makes available to students. The program’s legacy of success is possible thanks to the strong partnership within the educational community and the leadership of Director of Music & Fine Arts Michael Caravello. Particularly during these tough economic times, with the combined efforts of students, teachers, administrators, parents and the school community, national recognition for the district's music program becomes more meaningful than ever before. Please see the following link for more information as well as the entire list of nationally recognized districts. http://www.nammfoundation.org/press-room/namm-foundation-176-programs-earn-distinction-best-community-music-education http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5444 Sun, 29 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Six music students from Earl L. Vandermeulen High School were inducted into the Tri-M Music Honor Society, Chapter 2172. The new inductees included Nicholas Aiello, Gabe Davis, Zachary Graziano, Michaela Griffin, Michael McCarthy and Gerard Racanelli. In addition to outstanding musical achievement, students are selected into the honor society on the basis of five points of distinction: scholarship, character, cooperation, leadership and service. The special evening included an honors recital featuring performances by the new inductees, immediately followed by a ceremony and reception. Congratulations to all of the new Tri-M members as well as their faculty advisor, Ms. Christine Creighton. Photo Courtesy of John Griffin Photography © 2012 http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5453 Sun, 29 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Board Candidate Interview Information BOARD_CANDIDATE_INFORMATION_2012.pdf http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5427 Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Community Budget Forum - High School Auditorium (LIVE Stream over the Internet) http://www.portjeffschools.org/boe/live_stream_information http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5393 Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here to View the Budget Newsletter http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5412 Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Saturday, April 21, 2012 in celebration of Earth Day, PJHS Student Organization and the PJHS Environmental Club teamed up for an Annual Mt. Sinai Harbor Beach Cleanup. The community service event was sponsored by the Village of Port Jefferson and The Coastal Steward “Adopt a Beach Program.” Fifteen sophomores, juniors and seniors from the HS arrived at 9 am at the end of Crystal Brook Hollow Road in Harbor Hills and worked together collecting various debris and collected data of debris found. For more information about adopting a beach, please go to http://www.coastalsteward.org/. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5376 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Port Jefferson High School Science Olympiad Team competed at the state competition on March 30th and 31st. 51 teams from throughout New York State met at Canisius College in Buffalo, with students competing in events that tested their skills in all areas of science as well as engineering. Four students earned gold medals at this two day event: Allison Cluett and Alberto Rescia for the Geologic Mapping, and Isabella Sanders and Weien Xu for Technical Problem Solving. Other top ten finishers included Isabelle Stark and Weien Xu for Fermi Questions, and Allison Cluett and Katharina Ross for Water Quality. While in the Buffalo region, students had the opportunity to visit Niagara Falls, site of the first hydro-electric power plant. The Middle School Science Olympiad competed in the State Competition against 35 of the top teams in New York State on Friday April 20th and Saturday April 21st at SUNY Ulster Community College. The team placed 14th out of 36 teams that made it to the competition. The team received medals in four events. Medal Winners (grade level in parenthesis): 3rd Place – Ryan Burke (9) and Boris Botchev (8) - Compute This 4th Place – Ryan Burke (9) and Eric Kilgore (8) – Buoy Oh Buoy 4th Place – Ryan Burke (9) and Eric Kilgore (8) – Optics 6th Place – Caroline Biondo (9) and Noah Davis (9) – Dynamic Planet Top 10 Finishes: 8th Place – Eli Doyle (6) and Connor Kaminska (6) – Reach for the Stars http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5355 Sun, 22 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Tuesday, April 24 Port Jefferson PTSA meeting will feature a special presentation from Child Abuse Prevention Services (CAPS). CAPS representative Daria Ferrara will facilitate educational and informative workshops for district parents on the topics of bullying and cyberbullying. The meeting will take place at 7:00 p.m. in the high school library. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5331 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Dear Parents and Community Members, At Tuesday night’s meeting of the Board of Education, the Board voted unanimously to adopt the budget as proposed at $38,076,500; representing a 2% increase to our tax levy. This spending plan was created after months of evaluation, dialogue, and input from many stakeholders. The driving force throughout the process has been to maintain the integrity (in fact excellence) of our instructional program, while making targeted reductions to prepare for the impending loss of revenue from the LIPA plant. The Board of Education and I are confident that the spending plan presented to the community does just that. Since Tuesday night’s meeting, however, discussion in parts of the community seems to center around the athletic budget – specifically the lacrosse program. In order to bring clarity to what seems to be unclear, allow me to offer the following: • The proposed budget for the 2012/13 school year does not include funding to support the expansion of our current middle school lacrosse program to the junior varsity level. The Board of Education and I feel very strongly that it would be irresponsible to make additions to the athletic budget while reductions are being made to the instructional program. The expansion of the lacrosse program is no longer budget neutral. In fact, the athletic department spending plan has been reduced for the third consecutive year. • There is no plan to create new fields to accommodate lacrosse or any other sport in the near future. It has been very well documented that our District is preparing to enter a period of fiscal crisis. This is not the time to discuss building athletic fields for any purpose. • The District is aware that an outside group is looking to form a Booster Club in order to raise funds to support the lacrosse program. If this Booster Club is successful in securing the significant funds necessary to allow for the expansion of the lacrosse program to the JV level, the Board of Education will then (and not before) consider approving the formation of a JV team. This discussion, however, will take place next year when we hope to have a clearer picture of our “post LIPA” revenue. Public schools within the State of New York are beginning to depend more and more on outside donations/booster clubs to supplement initiatives that the budget can no longer support. The Board of Education and I are resigned to the fact that we are no different, in fact – our financial challenges will be far more profound post-LIPA than perhaps anywhere else on Long Island. While discussions we have had this year about programmatic changes have been difficult, I fear we will be having even more difficult conversations in the very near future. Therefore, we anticipate the need to reach out to our PTA/PTSA’s, Royal Educational Foundation, and various other booster clubs in order to find additional support for items that may need to be deleted from future spending plans. We are hopeful that our community will rally in support of our students. Please plan to attend the community forum that will be held next Thursday, April 26 at 7 p.m. in the HS auditorium. Our Assistant Superintendent for Business, Mr. Leister and I will be giving a final review of the proposed budget and review changes to our program reflected in the spending plan. We will also be available to answer any questions or address any concerns that you may have. Please note in today’s (April 19) edition of the Port Times Record, an error appears. The schedule at the MS/HS next year will be shifting from a 10 period to a 9 period day (not 9 to 8 as stated in the PTR). Lastly, I encourage you to visit our website, read our newsletter and budget brochure (you will receive a printed edition within the next 10 days) to make an informed decision when you participate in our budget vote on May 15 (6 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the HS Cafeteria). Regards, Kenneth R. Bossert, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5306 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Middle School Science Olympiad Team came in third place at the Suffolk County Regional Division B Science Olympiad Competition, held at Candlewood Middle School. Students from grades 6-9 competed against 32 teams from 22 school districts in events that tested the students’ skills in earth science, biology, chemistry, physics and engineering. The team is competing on April 20 and 21 at SUNY Ulster in the state competition. Medal winners (grade level in parentheses): 1st place – Boris Botchev (8) and Ryan Burke (9) for “Compute This” 1st place – Eric Kilgore (8) and Ryan Burke (9) for “Buoy Oh Buoy” 3rd place – Eric Kilgore (8) and Ryan Burke (9) for “Storm the Castle” 3rd place – Caroline Biondo (9) and Noah Davis (9) for “Dynamic Planet” 3rd place – Yuuki Shibutani (9) and Nicholas Caltagirone (8) for “Towers” 4th place – Margo Martin-Deprez (9) and Cezanne Lojeski (6) for “Buoy Oh Buoy” 4th place – Billy Witrock (8), Boris Botchev (8) and Calla Kelley-Renda (8) for “Experimental Design” 4th place – Joe Iasso (9) and Janella Damaskos (9) for “Forestry” 4th place – Eli Doyle (6) and Connor Kaminska (6) for “Reach for the Stars” 4th place - Aliza Doyle (9) and Yuuki Shibutani (9) for "Anatomy" 6th place – Boris Botchev (8) and Jeff Koutsantanou (8) for “Microbe Mission” 6th place – Eli Doyle (6) and Connor Kaminska (6) for “Mouse Trap Vehicle” Top 10 finishes: Eric Kilgore (8) and Jeff Koutsantanou (8) for “Forestry” Caroline Biondo (9) and Noah Davis (9) for “Meteorology” Thomas Hull (8) and Jeff Koutsantanou (8) for “Mouse Trap Vehicle” Ryan Burgert (9) and Joe Luca (8) for “Storm the Castle” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5325 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Latin students from Port Jefferson Middle School and High School competed at Stony Brook University in a Latin Certamen. Students from 15 schools across Nassau and Suffolk Counties competed in their respective levels based on course enrollment. Port Jefferson had an impressive showing with an eighth-grade team (Level One), ninth-grade team (Level Two), two tenth-grade teams (Level Three) and one team competing on the Advanced Level. The Certamen is a fast-paced Latin contest that tests students' knowledge of Latin grammar, vocabulary, word derivations, Roman life, history, mythology and literature. Level One Team won third place: Thomas Hull Rachel Collins Nicholas Hartmann Emma Martin Level Two Team won third place: Noah Davis Ryan Burke Julia Kharzeev Natasha Zaliznyak Level Three Team B won first place: Alberto Rescia Alex Bruno Romaine Popesco Kent Ueno Level Three Team A won second place: Leah Neiman Chiara Repetti-Ludlow Maria Simmerling Gabrielle Stark http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5326 Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT NOTICE OF BUDGET HEARING, BUDGET VOTE AND ELECTION PORT JEFFERSON UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT TOWN OF BROOKHAVEN, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, NEW YORK Notice is hereby given that a budget hearing for the qualified voters of the Port Jefferson School District, Town of Brookhaven, County of Suffolk, Port Jefferson, New York, will be held at Earl L. Vandermeulen High School in said District on May 8, 2012 at 7:00 p.m., prevailing time, for the presentation of the budget; copies of the adopted budget will be available seven days prior to the budget hearing. Notice is hereby given, that the annual vote/election of the qualified voters of the Port Jefferson School District, Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, New York, will be held at Earl L. Vandermeulen High School in said District on Tuesday, May 15, 2012 between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., prevailing time, at which time the polls will be open to vote by machine upon the following items: 1) Proposition 1 - Shall the annual budget of the Port Jefferson School District for the school year 2012-2013 in the sum of $38,076,500; as proposed by the Board of Education with the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the District, as required by law, be adopted? 2) To elect 3 members of the Board, two for a 3 year term commencing July 1, 2012 and expiring on June 30, 2015, one for a term commencing May 15, 2012 and expiring June 30, 2015. The candidates are: Mark Doyle -Shawn Cohen - Ellen Boehm- James Laffey - Vincent Ruggiero The following vacancies are to be filled on the Board of Education: Mark Doyle (last incumbent) (3 year term) Lauren Hubbard (last incumbent) (3 year term) James Laffey* (last incumbent) (3 year term +) * (unexpired term of Robert Frey) Notice is also given that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required by the ensuing year for school purposes, exclusive of public moneys, may be obtained by any taxpayer in the district during the fourteen days immediately preceding the annual vote/election, at the school district administration office, 550 Scraggy Hill Road, Port Jefferson, New York, Monday through Friday during the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. prevailing time, and on Saturday and Sunday by appointment. Notice is also given that applications for absentee ballots will be obtainable from the District Clerk, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except holidays. If the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, the completed application must be received by the Clerk of the District at least seven days before the day of the election. If the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter, the completed application must be received by the District Clerk at least one day before the day of the vote/election. Ballots must reach the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. (prevailing time) on the date of the vote/election. A list of all persons to whom absentee ballots shall have been issued will be available for public inspection in the office of the District Clerk during regular office hours until the day of the election. And further, notice is hereby given, that the qualified voters of the school district shall be entitled to vote at said annual vote and election. A qualified voter is one who is (1) a citizen of the United States, (2) eighteen years of age or older, (3) a resident within the District for a period of thirty days next preceding said vote/election. The Board of Education has adopted the provisions of Education Law §2018-c which requires all new persons offering to vote at any school district meeting or election to provide one form of proof of residency. Acceptable proof of residency shall be a driver’s license, a non-driver’s license, a non-driver identification card, a utility bill, or a voter registration card. Pursuant to Chapter 258 of the Laws of 2008, Section 495 was added to the Real Property Tax Law and requires the School District to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report. Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how the total assessed value of the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted by statutory authority, and show the cumulative impact of each type of exemption, the cumulative amount expected to be received as payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) and the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. In addition, said exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District for public notices and on any website maintained by the District. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION Port Jefferson Union Free School District Dated: April 18, 2012 Janice Baisley District Clerk 4/26/12, 5/3/12 http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5296 Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here to View the Newsletter http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5267 Mon, 16 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students at the Middle School learned an important lesson on tolerance from Holocaust survivor Werner Reich. A Long Island resident, Mr. Reich described his personal experiences as a young boy growing up and surviving the Holocaust. He shared his inspirational story of hardship and fortitude, including his capture in Yugoslavia and transport to an Auschwitz concentration camp. As an enhancement to the eighth-grade social studies curriculum, Mr. Reich discussed the Nazis’ rise to power and the events precipitating World War II. He reminded students that many races and groups of people were targeted during the Holocaust, and unfortunately, many terrible acts were committed before anyone took a stand and intervened. Mr. Reich explained how differently history could have been written if good people would have taken action earlier, and that, no matter how small, injustices in school, at home or on a global level need to be addressed and handled fairly to protect everyone. Students received a firsthand perspective through his impactful slideshow, which featured a compilation of photos, political cartoons and newspaper articles written during World War II. As one of a small group of Holocaust survivors today, Mr. Reich’s goal is to make a difference in students’ lives and enlighten them on the damaging and long-lasting effects that bullying carries on all levels. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5268 Mon, 16 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Port Jefferson School District had the honor of hosting the 2012 New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) Festival. More than 2,500 local student-musicians came together to showcase their talents and fine-tune their craft. One Hundred Port Jefferson student volunteers, many of whom were also selected to perform, assisted in various event capacities to make it a success for participants and attendees. The student volunteers, under the direction of Director of Music and Fine Arts Michael Caravello, helped distribute pamphlets and maps and assisted with the overall operation. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5280 Mon, 16 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT A special meeting of the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education will be held on April 18, 2012, 5:00 p.m., at the District Office, for the purpose of voting on the Eastern Suffolk BOCES Budget and Board Trustees. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5180 Wed, 04 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT A special meeting of the Board of Education of Port Jefferson School District will be held on April 3, 2012, 5:30 pm, at the District Office, for the purpose of entering executive session to discuss a personnel matter. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5122 Fri, 30 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Italian foreign language high school students attended "An Afternoon in Italy" cooking event held at the A La Carte Culinary School. Students learned a variety of cooking techniques and created several dishes representing various regions of Italy. Buon appetito! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5125 Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to Gaspar Cello, who won honorable mention in the Italian Poetry Contest held at SUNY Old Westbury. Over 250 students from across Long Island competed in this literary event. Other student participants from the district included: Kate Gwydir, Sarah Hildreth, Michael Laffey, Robert Righi, Jasper Rubin Sigler, Isabella Sanders, Daniel Scarda and Kristian Tonnessen. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5126 Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT The middle school held its 7th annual talent show to benefit Friends of Karen, a Port Jeff-based charity that assists families who have critically ill children. The community was invited to attend the district show, which featured the many talents of its students. Student hosts introduced their peers, who entertained audiences with dancing, singing, and guitar and drum performances. Through admission and raffle sales, students raised more than $1,300 for the nonprofit. They also collected canned goods to be donated to a local food pantry. Friends of Karen Special Events and Community Affairs Director Patricia Conway accepted a check from talent show student hosts Haley Shon, Alenandra Ward and Brianna Scarda and teacher Allison Giannusa to support the nonprofit’s local mission. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5115 Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT A work session of the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education will be held on March 27, 2012, 7:00 p.m, at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School.Presentations include updates on technology and the 2012-2013 budget. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5075 Tue, 27 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT The following is a list of meetings at which Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert and Assistant Superintendent for Business Mr. Sean Leisterwill bepresenting the proposed 2012-2013 school district budget.Community members areencouraged to attend any of these meetings. April 2 10:00 am PTA -Elementary School April 2 7:00 pm Village of Port Jefferson April 177:30 pmBoard of Education Meeting - Elementary School April 23 7:00 pm Port Jefferson Free Library April 26 7:00 pm Community Forum - High School Auditorium (LIVE Stream over the Internet) http://www.portjeffschools.org/boe/live_stream_information http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5095 Mon, 26 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Port Jefferson High School Science Olympiad Team came in third place at the Suffolk County Regional Science Olympiad Competition, held at Half Hollow Hills High School West. Twenty-eight district students competed among 48 elite teams in dynamic events that tested problem solving, research and engineering skills. In addition to medal and top ten finishes, district coaches Michel Krivosta and Laurie McMillen were recognized at the state tournament for over 25 years of coaching state-qualifying teams. Medal Winners: 1st place – Allison Cluett and Katharina Ross for Water Quality 1st place – Danielle Grier and Alberto Rescia for Chemistry Lab 2nd place – Emma Neiman and Isabelle Stark for Anatomy 2nd place – Allison Cluett and Isabella Sanders for Dynamic Planet 3rd place – Zachary Graziano and Dana Prohovnik for Microbe Mission Top 10 Finishes: Zachary Graziano and Weien Xu for Optics Zachary Graziano and Dana Prohovnik for Protein Modeling Alberto Rescia and Natasha Zaliznyak for Rocks and Minerals The state competition will be held on Friday and Saturday, March 30 and 31, at Canisius College in Buffalo. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5009 Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Boris Botchev, an eighth-grade student at the middle school, has been notified by the National Geographic Society that he is a semifinalist, eligible to compete in the 2012 New York State National Geographic Bee sponsored by Google and Plum Creek. Earlier in the year, a schoolwide geography bee was held at the middle school in which participants answered a variety of questions, such as, “Which city on the Great Lakes has the largest population?” and “The Bitterroot Range is located on the border between Montana and which other state?” Following rounds of competition, Boris was named the champion and then sat for the National Geographic Society qualifying exam, on which he placed within the top 100 scorers in New York State. He will now compete at the New York State Museum in Albany on Friday, March 30, 2012. The winner will represent New York in the national finals in Washington, D.C. in May. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5010 Tue, 20 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT An impressive 29 students from the district were selected to participate in the Suffolk County Music Educators’ Association (SCMEA) All-County Festival. Students from both the elementary and secondary levels took part in this competitive event and joined student-musicians from across the region to rehearse for the concerts held for each division. In addition, the district was represented by elementary school chorus teacher Meagan Finnerty, who holds the position as chairperson for the SCMEA Division I chorus. Division I - Grades 5 & 6 Catrina Alvarez, Katie Ambrozy, Chloe Andriani, Grant Calendrille, Grace Crugnale, Phoenix Jampol, Jonathan Kelsch, James Kennedy, Hyun jin Lee, Cezanne Lojeski, Matt Luca, Trey Pisano, Ryan Robertson, Charles Rolfe, Phalina Sciara, Emily Valadez, Olivia Wennerod, Ryan Worrell and Bridget Yost Division II - Grades 7 & 8 Boris Botchev, Parris Garant, Danielle Goldstein, Victoria Raso and Anita Rescia Division III - Grades 9 & 10 Taylor Carley, Kirsten Crovello, Dunia Karzai, Aldan Mohacsi and Chiara Repetti-Ludlow http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4967 Sun, 18 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click here to watch the video http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4914 Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Please note: results represent all Suffolk County responses. Click Here to View the Results http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4911 Tue, 13 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Recently, six Port Jefferson High School Student Organization members attended a progressive conference with 13 other Suffolk County school districts at the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge. The program, coined J.U.S.T.I.C.E. (Join Us Together in Creating Equality), works to address issues of unity and equality within schools and from the student perspective. The conference provided a unique platform for students to discuss these key topics with their peers and educational professionals. Through open discourse, students shared an abundant amount of pro-unity based ideas, events and activities that student organizations will look to establish within their districts. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4891 Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT The second graders at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School continued their exploration of international studies by performing at the school’s International Dance festival. In conjunction with the celebration of dance, students first selected a country and presented its heritage and culture to their classmates. Students have been training for the International Dance, sponsored by the Health and Physical Education Department, as part of their culminating unit on international studies. During physical education classes, students were taught various dancing techniques from around the globe. On the day of the dance, students paid homage to their respective countries by dressing in authentic clothing and accessories as they performed dances such as the Irish Step, Mexican Hat, Mambo, Tango and Hora. In pairs, students introduced and provided historical facts about the origins and significance of the dances. The event was followed by a tasting party for students and parents, which gave students the opportunity to sample and share treats from different countries. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4892 Sun, 11 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT High School Interact Club members donated their time and talents to host a bake sale at the Dodge to Cure Diabetes event. Students made and sold baked goods to raise funds, which were donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. The following morning, the Interact Club, along with the Port Jefferson Rotarians, collected food for a local food cupboard at King Kullen Supermarket in Mt. Sinai. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4893 Sat, 10 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Monday, February 27, all Port Jefferson employees engaged in meaningful professional development activities in order to address district and NYS Education Department priorities. The day began with a keynote address from Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert that focused on the new Annual Professional Performance Review (APPR) evaluation system and the Danielson Framework for Teaching rubric, which has been adopted for teacher evaluations. Following the presentation, faculty participated in breakout sessions to analyze the qualities of effective teaching, as structured in the Danielson rubric. Teachers and administrative members of the district’s APPR Network Team who received specialized training at Eastern Suffolk (ES) BOCES, aligned to the training offered in Albany, facilitated these sessions, having brought their knowledge back to the district to educate their peers on these key initiatives. The afternoon was devoted to learning about the state’s new Common Core Standards and other curriculum issues, focusing on updating the scope and sequence of particular courses and training for district programs including the Second Step character education program, which is a component of the district’s curriculum for the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA). ES BOCES staff developers facilitated afternoon sessions for Common Core Math and Common Core ELA in social studies, science and additional subject areas, while Dr. Deaver, from LIU CW Post, presented a workshop on rehearsal techniques for the music faculty. The comprehensive conference engaged the entire educational community, as the buildings & grounds and custodial staff participated in safety and maintenance training, and the office staff members attended training on district systems. In addition, the district’s paraprofessionals spent the afternoon building their understanding of the role that aides and assistants play in supporting the instruction of students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). It was an effective day of professional learning designed to enhance the instructional program for students, as well as to develop expertise with district systems and ensure the health and safety of our buildings for all of our students, staff and visitors. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4881 Fri, 09 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Nomination petitions are now available to run for a seat on the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education. Three vacant seats currently held by members Mark Doyle, Lauren Hubbard and James Laffey (who is completing the unexpired term of Robert Frey) will be up for public vote at the annual district budget vote and election on Tuesday, May 15, 2012. Completed petitions are due no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, April 16, 2012. All interested community members should contact District Clerk Janice Baisley at 476-4404 ext. 8 to obtain the necessary paperwork. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4851 Thu, 08 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Several student-athletes will be competing at the New Balance Indoor National Championships at the Armory in New York City. Below is a recap of Port Jefferson’s exceptional performances at the State Winter Track Championships: • Andrew Keresztes: 4th place in the 1000m with a time of 2:29.60 - school record time • James Burke, Cole Conte, Fred Agostino & Andrew Keresztes: 10th place in the 4 x 800 meter relay with a time of 8:32.2 • Ben Neiman: 55m high hurdles 12th place with a time of 7.88 Good luck to our athletes who will be competing in the following meets at Nationals: • Distance Medley Relay with team Andrew Keresztes, Ben Neiman, Cole Conte and James Burke • Sprint Medley Relay with team Cole Conte, Ben Neiman, Dennis Walsh and Andrew Keresztes • Shuttle Hurdle Relay with team Ben Neiman, Dan Gross, Eric Keresztes and Cole Conte • Freshman Mile run by James Burke http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4834 Wed, 07 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Eight members of the Port Jefferson varsity wrestling team placed in the top three at the Division II Suffolk County Championships. Three outstanding athletes took first place in the competition in their respective weight classes, with highlights including Dylan Roberts pinning Hampton Bays’ Gustavo Gonzalez in the 138-pound matchup and teammates Paul Cavanaugh and Ryan Woodward shaking hands before their bout for first place in the 152-pound weight class. In addition, Dominick Evangelista took the top spot in the 145-pound weight class, defeating Bayport-Blue Point’s Ralph Fabiani. Additional county medal winners include: Second place: 152- Ryan Woodward Third place: 132 - Tristan DeVincenzo 132 - Tyler D'Accordo 220 - Brett Ruggerio 285 - Kyle Fiske The boys varsity track team also made their mark at regional competitions, including first-place finishes by Andrew Keresztes in the 1000-meter run and the 4x800 relay team with members Cole Conte, James Burke, Andrew Keresztes and Fred Agostino. Hurdles specialist Benjamin Neiman took third place in the 55-meter race, and James Burke placed fourth in the 1600-meter run. These exceptional athletes are all advancing to the New York State Winter Track Championships to compete against the state’s elite at Cornell University. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4736 Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT High school freshman Caroline Strauss was recognized at this year's annual Scholastic Art and Writing Awards for the Northeast Region-at-Large, which included student entries from Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. Caroline's digital photograph, entitled "Champs Elysees," was one of only 15 percent of entries to receive the award of honorable mention based on the judge's criteria of originality, technical skill and sense of vision. Congratulations to Caroline on her artistic achievement. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4737 Tue, 28 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Port Jefferson High School said farewell to Chiara Sommerfelt, an exchange student from Germany who returned home this month. However, international relationships continue as the district welcomes Reiner Scheurich, also from Germany, who arrived eager to learn inside the classroom and within the community. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4699 Mon, 27 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT The High School Interact Club recently assisted the local Rotary Club in preparing bags of toiletries for distribution through the Welcome INN program, which offers free meals to individuals in the surrounding communities. More than 600 items were sorted and individually bagged as gifts for community members who visit the soup kitchens. Interact Club members also sold pink and purple hearts in an effort to raise money for Gift of Life, an international organization which, together in its association with Stony Brook Hospital, provides life-saving heart surgeries to children in need of help. The Interact Club raised more than $250 to donate to this worthy cause. A display of hearts decorates the high school hallways as a special thank you to the Port Jefferson community for its generous donations and help in making a difference. Through the Gift of Life program, Port Jefferson Rotarians, healthcare professionals and volunteers have worked together for over three decades to save the lives of more than 12,000 children. Donations to Gift of Life help finance medical expenses associated with heart surgery. The Interact Club is a community service based club that works in conjunction with the Port Jefferson Rotary Club. Please see the HS/MS Club Calendar for meeting dates, which are held after school in high school room 204. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4698 Sun, 26 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to Gavin Chambers, who was named Port Jefferson's Scripps Spelling Bee Champion! Edna Louise Spear Elementary School hosted the intense battle of words to determine who would advance and represent the district in the regional bee. Prior to the competition, students studied diligently to learn a variety of words and definitions, some of which were categorized at an eighth-grade vocabulary level. Gavin will continue to test his spelling skills at the regional level on March 18 at Hofstra University along with 100 local competitors in a live tournament. If successful, he will join students nationwide at the televised Howard Scripps Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4649 Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students in the Middle School’s Art Club were feeling the love this Valentine’s Day as they created hand-designed valentines for each of their classmates. A festive theme ran through the hallways, as each locker was decorated with a valentine. The creative endeavors of the Art Club, led by Stacey Schuman, left a warm impression on all of the middle school students. At the high school it was an amorous celebration as the High School Student Organization sold flowers and heart-shaped candy on Valentine’s Day. With over 100 orders placed, Cupid had a busy day delivering these gifts to students and staff. Throughout the school year this group of students works to spearhead outreach and fundraising events to improve the district and community. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4623 Mon, 20 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Girls Basketball - Playoff Game Tonight 5:00 p.m. at Pierson Boys Basketball - Playoff game Tonight 7:00 p.m. at Pierson Each game has a $4.00 entrance charge http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4614 Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Eight exceptional student-musicians from the district were selected to participate in the Long Island String Festival Association (LISFA) String Festivals. Students in grades five through eleven from all over the island were chosen to participate in these prestigious music festivals. The Elementary and Middle School Festival was held at Elwood Middle School, and the Junior High and Senior High School Festival was held at Ward Melville High School. Teacher recommendations and solo evaluation scores from the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) played a large role in the students’ acceptance into the festivals. Congratulations to the Port Jefferson string students! Grade 5 Sam Caltagirone, Hyun Jin Lee Ava Schully Annalisa Welinder Grade 7 Anita Rescia Grade 8 Boris Botchev Grade 9 Dunia Karzai Grade 11 Jonathan Chun http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4575 Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT The students of the middle school are participating in a unique after-school intramural program that provides them the opportunity to ice skate at the Rinx. This exciting afternoon activity brings sixth-grade students into a new environment and gives them a chance to get active out on the ice. The Rinx is located at the Port Jefferson Village Center, where members of the community can come together to enjoy some outdoor winter fun. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4576 Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT The National Merit Scholarship Corporation has announced its finalists in this year’s competition, and Port Jefferson has two students who received this designation. Seniors Cole Conte and Allison Cluett join 15,000 students nationwide, out of the 1.5 million entrants, who are now eligible to receive Merit Scholarships, which include coveted corporate and college-sponsored scholarships. This prestigious academic award exemplifies the district’s high level of student achievement and rigor of its educational programs. "The accomplishments of these two exceptional students continue to bring great pride to our school district and the community,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert. “My congratulations to Allison, Cole and their families on a job well done.” Students entered the 2012 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2010 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which served as an initial screening. Students advanced to the Semifinalist and then Finalist levels based on their outstanding academic record, administration endorsement and SAT scores. Students also submitted a detailed scholarship application, which included a student essay and information about their participation and leadership in school and community activities. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4491 Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT It was an exciting day for high school senior Andrew Keresztes, as he was joined by school administration, family and his coaches to sign an official Letter of Intent for the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Andrew, who received an academic-athletic scholarship for the fall of 2012, will be running for the university’s cross-country, indoor track and outdoor track teams. Andrew has been a starter for the Port Jefferson Royals in cross-country, winter track and spring track for the past four years and currently belongs to the 2012 Small School Championship Winter Track Team. Aside from running various races such as the 400-meter, 800-meter and 1600-meter, Andrew has placed first in the Section XI League Championship for the 1000-meter race. He has also participated in the Molloy Stanner Games, the Hispanic Games presented by the U.S. Navy and the Rhode Island Classic. The Port Jefferson School District prides itself on the academic and athletic accomplishments of its students and wishes Andrew all the best at the University of Maryland. Pictured below, Andrew signed his Letter of Intent and was joined by (standing, left to right) Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ken Bossert, Varsity Coach Rod Cawley, Principal Roseann Cirnigliaro, Assistant Coach Andrew Cosci, Athletic Director Deb Ferry, (sitting, left to right) father Roger Keresztes, and mother Patricia Farrelly. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4499 Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students from the high school band joined student musicians from across the region to participate in the 54th Annual Mid-Island Band Festival. Led by music teacher Christine Creighton, the band practiced diligently for its performance at the annual event. The Port Jefferson participants included Elizabeth Acampora, Ryan Burke, Allison Cluett, Dominick Famularo, Christy Harrigan, Lara Sarubbi, and Elizabeth Stafford. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4500 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT High School Advanced Placement Biology students became scientists during their visit to the Biotechnology Teaching Laboratory at the Center for Science and Mathematics Education (CESAME) at Stony Brook University. Students had the opportunity to conduct hands-on experiments as they performed a restriction digest on viral DNA from the bacteriophage Lambda and then separated the DNA fragments using gel electrophoresis. Utilizing technical skills, students also completed a bacterial transformation experiment in which they inserted DNA into E. coli, plated the bacteria on appropriate media, and studied the expression of the newly inserted genes. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4489 Sun, 05 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT The second graders of Edna Louise Spear Elementary School have been traveling the world to learn about their heritage. As part of their social studies curriculum, the students have been discovering where their ancestors came from and exploring the heritage of their classmates. Each student was asked to choose a country of interest and research the geography, history and culture. Students presented their projects and taught classmates fun facts about the country, including flag origin, currency and cuisine. The projects served to enhance literacy instruction and communication skills, as students were required to write in their travel logs about each country and were able to ask the presenters additional questions. The second graders are also looking forward to an International Dance on March 2, where they will display dances from around the globe that they have learned in their physical education classes. After the dance party, the students will have the opportunity to sample an array of international foods. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4469 Sat, 04 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Drive It Right Program will be held on Thursday, February 9th, at 7:00 p.m. in the High School Library. This is a mandatory meeting for bothstudents who wish to drive to school and their parent/guardian. The meeting will last approximately one hour. All necessary paperwork will be provided at the meeting. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4393 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4378 Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Port Jefferson High School was one of twenty schools selected to participate in the U.S. Department of Energy 2012 Regional Science Bowl. Academic Team members Zachary Graziano, Isabella Sanders, Isabelle Stark and Weien Xu competed at Brookhaven National Laboratory and placed second in their division. The Science Bowl is one of a number of prestigious contests that the Academic Team participates in throughout the school year. Interested students are encouraged to attend team meetings on Wednesday afternoons in Laurie McMillen's room. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4379 Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Port Jefferson School District will be closed for students on Monday, February 27, 2012, for Superintendent’s Conference Day. This is the first weekday after the February winter recess. Faculty and Staff will be reporting to school on February 27th to attend a series of Professional Development workshops focused on implementing new requirements from the New York State Department of Education. Teachers will be studying the qualities of effective teaching outlined in Charlotte Danielson’s Framework for Teaching rubric, and will engage in analysis of the new Common Core Standards for ELA, Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects and the new Common Core Standards for Math. Additional workshops are scheduled for members of the Paraprofessional, Clerical, Buildings & Grounds and Custodial staffs. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4319 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT The NYS Education Department has released revised testing dates for spring 2012. Both the ELA and Math assessments will be administered over 3 days for all students in grades 3 – 8. ELA assessments: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday - April 17, 18, and 19, 2012 Math assessments: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday – April 25, 26, and 27, 2012 Note –Monday, April 16, 2012, previously scheduled as Superintendent’s Conference Day, is a regular school day for students and is the first weekday following the spring recess. If you have any questions please contact Mrs. Hull (mhull@portjeff.k12.ny.us or 631-791-4600) or your child’s Principal. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4321 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT A work session of the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education will be held on January 24, 2012, 7:00 p.m, at the Edna Louise Spear Elementary School, Large Group Room , regarding the 2012-2013 budget. The Board will be meeting in executive session at 6:30 p.m., to discuss negotiations, personnel, and other business as may be needed. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4293 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Middle school musician Joseph Kaming-Thanassi performed in the 7th Annual Suffolk County Music Educators Association (SCMEA) Day of Horn at Commack Middle School. This event, which currently holds the Guinness World Record for the world's largest horn ensemble, featured a concert of nearly three hundred horn players from across Suffolk County. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4274 Sun, 22 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT All activities for Saturday January 21, 2012 have been canceled and all school buildings are closed. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4267 Sat, 21 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT The SCSSA Tax Cap survey is has been designed to allow easy access to all community members interested in sharing their views on this critical issue. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4237 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here to View the Winter 2012 Edition of The Horizon http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4254 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Middle School student Jefferson Koutsantanou scored in the top five percent nationally in the American Mathematics Competition (AMC). Forty-four of the district’s eighth-grade students participated in the rigorous and challenging 25-question test taken by over 150,000 students in the United States. In order to qualify for the AMC Contest, selected accelerated students had to be currently enrolled in the school’s Integrated Algebra course. Teacher Matt Garofola presented Jefferson with an award certificate to recognize this prestigious accomplishment. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4232 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Recently, over fifty elementary, middle and high school string students, along with their parents, attended an evening performance of the New York Philharmonic at Avery Fisher Hall in Lincoln Center. Students enjoyed orchestra-level seats during the premiere performance of contemporary composer Thomas Ades, as well as Gustav Mahler's acclaimed Symphony No. 9. Students had the opportunity to experience a unique trip to this iconic sound factory and were inspired by the music from one of the finest orchestras in the world. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4172 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click here to read the entire story http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4080 Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT To enhance curriculum, fifth-grade students in the Studies Enriching Academic Learning (SEAL) program, who are currently studying forensic science, visited the Cold Spring Harbor DNA Learning Center. SEAL students had an opportunity to be introduced to the work of scientists through hands-on learning within the DNA lab. There, students conducted experiments and utilized professional equipment to extract harmless bacteria. In the computer lab, students applied a variety of forensic techniques and interpretations to identify the remains of the Russian Royal Family and Princess Anastasia Romanov. The trip concluded with an educational tour of the museum exhibition "The Genes We Share," where students learned about the miraculous discovery of the double helix and how it functions. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4081 Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT High school seniors Elizabeth Acampora and Brandon Reiter were selected as recipients of the 2011-2012 Suffolk Zone Award. Presented by the Suffolk Zone of the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, this honor recognizes outstanding students with award certificates and medals. Every high school in Suffolk County nominates one male and one female student to receive this award. Elizabeth and Brandon have proven themselves to physical education teachers and the school community as students with exceptional physical performance, scholastic ability and leadership qualities. Their performance and participation in physical education classes have earned them this well-deserved recognition. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4082 Mon, 02 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Port Jefferson School District and Board of Education are pleased to announce the reopening of the Community Fitness Center and Community Swim programs to the residents of Port Jefferson. Budget planning last spring eliminated funding for operation of the fitness center and pool to the community; however, strong community feedback encouraged the Board to direct the administration to revisit possible avenues for resident use during the 2011-2012 school year. Ultimately, the district was able to bring a level of service to the community by reducing costs by 50% (which included decreasing the rate of pay and hours of operation). Reallocated savings realized in other budget areas were then applied to fund the reduced services for the balance of the school year. The district invites all village residents to partake in the activities offered and exercise their minds and bodies. Gather your friends and enjoy an afternoon of physical activity and relaxation. In addition, the district has expanded its services and is now offering elementary school students an opportunity to practice and hone their swimming skills every Wednesday from 3:30–4:30 p.m., beginning January 4, 2012. The fitness center is housed at the High School/Middle School at 350 Old Post Road and will be open beginning on Tuesday, January 3. The facility will operate between the hours of 5:30–7:30 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, when school is in session. The swimming pool is located at the Edna Louise Spear Elementary School at 500 Scraggy Hill Road and will open on Wednesday, January 4. The pool will be available for use during the hours of 6:30–8:30 p.m. on Monday and Wednesday. Please be sure to bring valid photo identification when utilizing the pool and fitness center to verify residency. The district looks forward to seeing residents work towards a healthy 2012. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4068 Mon, 02 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Seventh-grade research students donated 28 handmade wooden puzzles to the Holiday Magic and Toys for Tots drives. Students worked diligently for weeks to craft and build individual puzzles, painting each one with unique designs. Completing this outreach project gave students a sense of fulfillment, knowing that they had personally contributed to the community and brought happiness to children in need. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4083 Sun, 01 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT PORT JEFFERSON SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTICE OF MEETINGS A special meeting of the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education will be held on January 3, 2012, 7:30 p.m, at the District Office for the purpose of entering executive session to discuss a personnel issue, and other business as may be needed. The regular monthly business meeting of the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education will be held on January 10, 2012, 7:30 p.m., in the large group room at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School. The Board will be meeting in executive session at 6:00 p.m. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4021 Fri, 23 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT By Dr. Kenneth Bossert, Superintendent of Schools The evaluation of our district’s spending priorities and practices has been a primary focus of mine since beginning as your Superintendent of Schools on June 1st, 2011. As both a district resident and public school educator, I have great respect for our residents’ historic support for its schools, but I am also a realist. The impending LIPA revenue challenge, municipal tax cap, and need to provide high quality services in the most efficient manner possible makes it imperative that we deliberately challenge the status quo. That process is already well under way. On December 13th our Board of Education and community was provided with a ‘first look’ at the 2012-2013 budget outline as presented by Mr. Sean Leister, our Assistant Superintendent for Business. As Mr. Leister explained to those in attendance, development of the public school budget is now driven by a new set of requirements defined by the State in the form of the tax cap, which limits the tax levy increase to the lesser of 2% or the rate of inflation. Working with ever increasing costs of health care, transportation, mandated pension contributions, and growing unfunded state mandates such as testing programs and Race to the Top requirements, the task is to identify spending reductions that don’t compromise our programs and services. Over the next several Board meetings, residents will hear recommendations proposed by my administrative team that will redefine certain aspects of our PreK-12 programs. Many of these recommendations would not be considered in a healthy economic climate. Some recommendations may change programs, extra-curricular activities and athletic endeavors that are long-standing traditions within our district. This is our new reality. Along with these program modifications will come staffing reductions. It is inevitable that valued members of our team will lose their positions. This is never an easy decision and one that I, and this Board, do not take lightly. But the rules are plain: meeting the 2% tax cap provides us with no options other than the requirement to reduce spending. My goals for this budget season can be broken down to three priorities: 1) Meet the targeted tax rate supported by the Board of Education. At this juncture, that means staying at or below the 2% tax cap, which requires a simple majority of voter support. 2) Be responsible to the taxpayers of the community, while evolving an instructional program that will allow our students the opportunity to achieve their full potential. 3) Perhaps most importantly, continue our efforts to place the district, and the community, in the best strategic position to face the impending loss of LIPA revenue. Our rollover budget that Mr. Leister presented on December 13 places us in a position that would be considered quite favorable when compared to surrounding districts, many of which will be required to slash spending in a much more dramatic manner. When conversing with other Superintendents, it has become quite clear that many districts will be looking for a 60% supermajority to exceed the tax cap and prevent the loss of valued programs and services. Realistically, that is not an option for Port Jefferson to consider. However, this apparent position of strength quickly and profoundly evaporates when the potentially catastrophic impact of LIPA is realized. As Superintendent, I continue to hope for the best – but it is my responsibility to prepare for the worst, and as a result, our residents can assume the aforementioned challenge of the status quo. I appreciate the willingness of the Board of Education to listen, process ideas and ask questions that will help us to meet our goals. Like me, they are all taxpayers in Port Jefferson, and want the best for both our students and all residents and taxpayers of the district. My theme for the year has been – “It takes a Village” – I am confident that working together, as a community, we can meet any challenge that comes our way. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4006 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Class of 2016 may be a small group with only 81 students, but they proved they have a BIG heart for those in need. These students won the schoolwide food drive to benefit Island Harvest by donating the largest amount of canned and boxed nonperishable items. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3993 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Middle school music student Paul Penske performed at the iconic Rockefeller Center during the annual Tuba Christmas. Paul joined an elite ensemble of 524 tubas as part of the 40-year tradition of tuba, euphonium and baritone players from across the country gathering in New York City to perform at this annual event. Band teacher Christine Creighton helped prepare Paul for this unique opportunity and accompanied him to the concert. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4003 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Members of the chamber choir provided a holiday performance at the Port Jefferson Public Library. A special thanks to our high school musicians led by their teacher, Ms. Katie Bernius, for putting everyone in the holiday spirit. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4004 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Students districtwide participated in the Village of Port Jefferson's annual Charles Dickens Festival. Participating ensembles included the elementary school select choir and string chamber ensemble, the 7/8 string chamber ensemble, the high school Tri-M music honor society wind ensemble, chamber choir and string orchestra. A special thanks to all of the student musicians as well as their teachers: Katie Bernius, Michael Caravello, Christine Creighton, Meagan Finnerty, Francesca Jourawleff, Christian Neubert and Jessica Pastor. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4005 Sun, 18 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Inspired by their mantra “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle,” the Middle School Environmental Club launched a schoolwide coat drive. Partnering with One Warm Coat, a national non-profit that assists in the donation of coats, students and staff participated in this important initiative. Every day, students visited the collection bins they had set up throughout the school to sort the gently-worn donated items. On pickup day, students, with the help of club advisor Nancy Bachety, transferred all of the coats and prepared them for delivery. One Warm Coat helps organizations across the country collect coats and deliver them to local agencies, who then distribute them to people in need. The organization’s mission is to ensure that anyone who needs a coat receives one. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3929 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT District students joined the mission of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation during the holiday season. The Middle School Student Council, with advisors Jeanette Garofola and Allison Giannusa, spearheaded a campaign for students and staff to donate gifts to children who may not be fortunate to receive gifts this year. Students were able to collect approximately 100 gifts for the cause, including board games, puzzles, dolls, stuffed animals, books and figurines. The goal of Toys for Tots is to collect new, unwrapped toys each year and distribute these toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community where the program is conducted. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3930 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT On a sunny but chilly morning, members of the Port Jefferson Rotary Club teamed up with members of Port Jefferson High School's Interact Club and their advisors, meeting outside the entrance of the Mount Sinai King Kullen. They invited the store's patrons to purchase and donate nonperishable items for The Open Cupboard, part of the social ministries of Infant Jesus RC Church. The morning's goal was to “Stuff-A-Van” with goods for those in need. Throughout the day many shoppers were wonderfully generous, with one shopper inviting Interact students to accompany him in the store, where they filled a cart full of donations. By noon, students successfully collected six shopping carts with a vast variety of items, enough goods to fill two vans and stock many of the shelves in The Open Cupboard's pantry. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3924 Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Inspired by classroom lessons, students in Darleen Wells’ second-grade class launched a Good Deeds campaign during the holiday season. Students discussed the importance of thinking about and helping others, and how everyone possesses the ability to make another person feel special. Using traced handprints, students wrote personal good deeds that they would complete throughout the month of December and combined their statements to create a united class wreath. While reviewing the simple acts, students decided to take action and work together to execute their good deeds. Students assembled care packages for United States troops by donating a variety of toiletry products such as soap, eye drops, sunblock and shaving cream. They also wrote cards that expressed sentiments of well wishes and crafted ornaments to accompany the packages, which will be sent to soldiers who are serving overseas. In addition, students took part in “Books to Make Children Smile,” collecting books to give to patients in the pediatric unit at St. Charles Hospital. They donated books that they felt would make ill children feel better during their stay. As a personal touch, students wrote notes to the recipients, placed in the books’ inside covers, which described why they enjoyed the story and how it made them smile. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3858 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Throughout the district, Port Jefferson’s educational community has been organizing outreach programs to support those in need during the holiday season. The High School Leo Club has sponsored a variety of drives and fundraisers and has partnered with Island Harvest to supply them with hundreds of pounds of food. Spearheading the “Students Feeding Students” food drive, Leo Club members began their efforts by volunteering at a local Stop and Shop, where they asked patrons to donate items from their shopping carts. As a result of their work, students were able to raise an impressive 700 pounds of food, which they sorted and boxed. The Leo Club’s in-district food drive will continue throughout the month of December. Students have already collected hundreds of pounds of additional food items. Island Harvest is a hunger relief organization whose mission is to “end hunger and reduce food waste on Long Island.” Their network includes 570 Long Island-based food pantries, soup kitchens, and other non-profit organizations that offer feeding services for those in need. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3859 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Our Elementary School Winter Concert will be broadcast LIVE over the internet. The LIVE stream will start at approximately 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday December 7th. Please click on the following link to start the LIVE stream. Click HERE for the Real Player Download Click HERE to start the LIVE Stream on your Computer with the Real Player Click HERE to start the LIVE Stream on your iPod/iPhone/iPad The concert will be archived for viewing and will be available the following morning. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3824 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Recently, Italian language students visited the Ellis Island Immigration Museum to enhance their studies on Italian-American immigration to the United States from 1890-1910. Students had the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of their ancestors as they viewed both the Statue of Liberty and the Great Hall, where they learned how immigrants were first processed upon their arrival in New York. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3786 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT At the Board of Education workshop on November 22, 2011, Board members viewed a presentation on curriculum given by Mrs. Hull, Director of ELA & Social Studies. At the meeting, it was announced that the Port Jefferson School District has established a Curriculum Development Council (CDC). Council members will be meeting monthly to provide oversight and structure to curriculum development. Mr. Snow, a HS social studies teacher and CDC member, spoke to the Board about the importance of the council to provide the opportunity for monthly faculty collaboration on curricular matters. The council launched their work with an audit of curriculum maps currently available in Atlas, the district’s web-based curriculum database. Curriculum mapping in Atlas began in the summer of 2009, with ten to fifteen additional subjects mapped annually. Mrs. Hull shared that this has been a great leap forward from the many curricula that exist in written format within binders that are difficult to share and update, and lack a public viewing component. Atlas maps provide a curriculum guide for teachers (Building Maps) and a curriculum guide for the public (District Maps). The teacher maps include assessments and resources that are easily accessible by faculty. Parents can view maps on the district’s website by visiting: Departments →Curriculum & Instruction →Curriculum Maps. The curriculum map audit is being used by members of the CDC to establish a Curriculum Review Cycle to ensure the timely update of curricula for all subjects and the identification of any gaps. The next group of courses to be mapped, along with other curricular projects, will be identified by the CDC this winter and reviewed by the Board of Education in March. The Curriculum Development Council was brought to Port Jefferson by Dr. Bossert, Superintendent of Schools, who has made curriculum review, continuous update, and faculty accountability a major goal for our district. CDC members for the 2011-2012 school year include teachers from grades one through four, special education, art, and secondary social studies, math, English, technology and science. The committee also includes the building principals, the Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics, and the Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services. The CDC is chaired by Mrs. Hull, with Dr. Bossert serving as an active member. Faculty and administrators from other curricular areas will be invited to join the CDC for specific projects. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3800 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Earl L. Vandermeulen High School senior Weien Xu and junior Rebecca Spinner were selected to participate in the prestigious New York State Council of Administrators of Music Education (NYSCAME) All-County Music Festival. Port Jefferson students, with Director of Music & Fine Arts Michael Caravello, and students from across the region gathered at Connetquot High School to participate in a variety of workshops and performances. Port Jefferson students were selected competitively from students throughout Suffolk County based on their NYSSMA scores and teacher recommendations. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3757 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Port Jefferson School District Board of Education The Finance Committee of the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education has reopened its invitation for community members to serve on the 2012-2013 Budget Advisory Committee (BAC). If you are a resident of the school district interested in serving on the BAC please submit your name, contact information and credentials to districtclerk@portjeff.k12.ny.us by December 7, 2011. The Finance Committee will review all submissions and individualsexpressing an interest will be contacted. The BAC is responsible for reviewing budget propositions from the administration, and providing advice and recommendations that the administration and the Board may use to present a school budget to the public in May. Thank you for your consideration. Board Finance Committee Robert Ramus, Chair Isak Prohovnik http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3696 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT The middle school student council hosted a Senior Citizen Thanksgiving Luncheon to recognize the community members who support the district throughout the school year. Led by advisors Jeanette Garofola and Allison Giannusa, student council members volunteered their time to serve and entertain the senior citizens who attended the afternoon event. Through various fundraising efforts, students created a traditional feast complete with turkey, stuffing, potatoes, green beans and cranberry sauce and decorated the dining room with festive table settings. Students served the senior citizens their meals and sat together at tables, engaging in conversation. While they dined, the high school chamber orchestra and jazz vocalists entertained the crowd with solo and ensemble performances. In addition to hosting the luncheon, the student council collected canned goods and monetary donations for a food drive. The middle school partnered with the high school’s Leo Club to collect the items, which were donated to the Island Harvest Food Bank. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3675 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT During this festive time of year, the district promotes an environment of community service and outreach. At Edna Louise Spear Elementary School, students created gift bags for the patients of St. Charles Hospital’s Pediatric Unit. Third and first-grade buddy classes, with teachers Doreen Marullo and Carleen Parmegiani, came together to sort and package the books, puzzles, art kits and games, which they donated for this program. These engaging and educational items will be distributed to the children who will remain in the hospital’s care during the Thanksgiving holiday. Students decorated the packaging with autumn-themed designs and offered uplifting words of encouragement by writing personal messages in cards. Throughout the school year, the district celebrates various character traits. To actively demonstrate this month’s theme of compassion, students crafted beaded bracelets for themselves that illustrated words such as “kindness” and “friendship.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3676 Sun, 20 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Watch the video from the November 22, 2011 BOE Recognition Cermony by clicking the link below: rtsp://real.portjeff.k12.ny.us/archive/soccer_11-22-11.rm Led by tournament MVP goaltender Gabe Davis, the Port Jefferson Varsity Boys Soccer team captured the NYS Class "C" Championship on Sunday morning by defeating Maple Hill HS by a score of 2-1. This is the first Boys Soccer NYS championship in the history of the district, and the first state championship of any kind for Port Jefferson in more than 20 years. Congratulations to these exceptional athletes and Coach Poulianos! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3644 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Please be advised that the location of the November 22, 2011 Board of Education Work Session has been changed. The work session will be held in the High School Library at 7:00 p.m., at that time newly appointed board member, James Laffey will be sworn in. The topic of the work session presentation is Curriculum Initiatives. Prior to the meeting, at 6:30 p.m., in the library, our Boys’ Varsity Soccer Team will be recognized for winning the New York State Class C Championship. Join us in celebrating their victory! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3636 Thu, 17 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT At a special meeting on November 15th, the Board of Education appointed Mr. James Laffey to the vacant seat on the Board of Education. Last week, the Board announced that it would fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Dr. Robert Frey through an appointment process after receiving letters of interest and conducting interviews with community residents, with an expectation that the seat would be filled next month. However, after further discussion, the Board abandoned this approach, and then unanimously appointed Mr. Laffey, who ran for the Board of Education in May 2011. The Board would like to thank those who either submitted a letter or had intended to do so before the deadline. We encourage all residents interested in serving on the Board to run in a future election. Mr. Laffey will fill the remainder of Dr. Frey’s term through May 15, 2012. We welcome him to the Board! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3606 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Port Jefferson’s Edna Louise Spear Elementary Select Choir performed at the 4th Annual "Go Green" Festival at the Port Jefferson Village Center. Fifth-grade musicians, under the direction of teachers Jessica Pastor and Meagan Finnerty, performed a moving rendition of the song “Listen to the Rain” to celebrate this year’s theme of water conservation. In addition, ninth-grade high school students in Lynne Edsall's studio art classes contributed to the environmental movement with their visual creations. Students first completed extensive research on critical threats to the water supply in the United States and around the world. Utilizing that knowledge, students created mixed-media collages that illustrated various causes of pollution, including pharmaceuticals in the water supply, acid rain, global warming, deep-water drilling and runoff from lawn chemicals. These impactful and informative images were displayed at the Village Center for all in attendance to view. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3626 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT by Carlo Goldoni Translated by Tunc Yalman Friday, November 18, 2011 @ 8:00 PM Saturday, November 19, 2011 @ 8:00 PM Sunday, November 20, 2011 @ 2:00 PM See below for more information. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3588 Sun, 13 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT A special meeting of the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education has been called for November 15, 2011, 7:45 p.m., in the large group room at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School, for the purpose of addressing further the Board vacancy, to enter executive session to discuss potential LIPA litigation, and for other business as may be needed. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3593 Sun, 13 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT The educational community of Edna Louise Spear Elementary School recognized Veterans Day with a variety of educational and artistic activities. Throughout the past few weeks, students, teachers and staff have worked together to build a Heroes Wall, located in the main hallway of the school. Stars designed with red, white and blue pay homage to the veterans and active duty members of the armed forces and depict the names and faces of these individuals who are friends and family. The theme of Veterans Day has been infused into the curriculum, with lessons educating students on the role of the military and the freedoms they protect. To bridge a connection with those who have served the nation, students created personal cards for the men and women who reside at the Long Island State Veterans Home in Stony Brook. Students expanded their terminology by forming vocabulary lists, which they used to craft messages. They also studied the components of a friendly letter and selected meaningful words, such as honor, country, brave and proud. To express their individuality, students decorated their cards with various patriotic symbols, including stars and the American flag. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3569 Wed, 09 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations! http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3543 Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Welcome to the district’s new website! This informative, content-driven resource features enhanced interactive resources, like our dynamic calendar, which will work to strengthen the community-district connection. The website will be continually updated with the district’s latest news and announcements, so be sure to check back frequently to read about the achievements of our students and staff. As an ever-evolving entity, we encourage feedback from the community. Please click here to share your comments. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3546 Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Board of Education Member Resigns Due To Ongoing Health Reasons Dr. Robert Frey, a Port Jefferson School Board member who has served as both President and Vice President of the Board, submitted his resignation from the Board to the district this morning to focus on completing his rehabilitation from last year's serious accident. Dr. Frey was in his sixth year of service to the community, having been elected to two three-year terms on the Board. His current term ends on June 30, 2012. "Dr. Frey's difficult decision to resign due to his continuing recuperation is an unfortunate loss for the District and our community," said Board President Mark Doyle. "During our time together on the Board, I have benefited greatly from his advice, insight, knowledge and humor. He has always been a strong and thoughtful advocate for improving the educational program in our schools. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Dr. Frey for his many years of service on the Board. We also wish him a full and speedy recovery. It is my earnest hope that he will become involved again with the District once it is complete." The Board will follow district policy and state guidelines to address the vacancy that now exists. The three options available to the Board include: appointing a replacement until the next trustee election is held (May 15); holding a special election to complete Dr. Frey’s term; or leaving the seat vacant until the next Board election. The matter will be discussed by the Board at its next regularly-scheduled meeting on Tuesday, November 8th. “I have only worked with him for a short time, but Dr. Frey’s commitment to our community and its students was strongly evident,” said Dr. Ken Bossert, Superintendent of Schools. “I am sorry that I will not have the ability to work with him as a Board member, but I do hope that he remains active with our schools in the coming years.” http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3524 Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Port Jefferson Academic Team recently represented the district in the TV quiz show The Challenge. Sponsored by News 12, Port Jefferson students competed against West Babylon High School in a game that tested their knowledge across a range of subject areas, including history, arts and literature, science and math. The team prepared for The Challenge by meeting on a weekly basis to expand their academic prowess and perfect their buzzer technique. The students also participated in the Regional Quiz Bowl, Half Hollow Hills Open, and the National Science and Engineering Bowl at Brookhaven National Laboratory to build teamwork and hone their skills. The show features the best and brightest students in the tri-state area who face off in an academic contest consisting of multiple choice, lightning and free response rounds. A win by Port Jefferson means that they will advance in the regional tournament and continue to compete with the opportunity to take the top spot and receive $2,500 for their school. The academic battle will air on January 2, 2012 at 6:30 p.m. on MSG Varsity. Encore episodes can be seen the following Saturday and Sunday at 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. on News12. To view full episodes and team biographies, visit msgvarsity.com. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3532 Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT To recognize November as Native American Heritage Month, Edna Louise Spear Elementary School students created traditional works of art based on their studies. Students throughout the school participated in grade-specific lessons that examined the culture and history of Native Americans. Reading ancient tales, students explored landscapes and geography and researched maps by deciphering their keys and meanings. They also examined symbols, discovering how Native Americans communicated with their families and tribes. To enhance curriculum, students constructed totem poles by designing segments of the iconic structures. They selected symbols and drew colorful markings, which included friendship, good crops, deer, rivers, mountains and teepees, to craft stories. Once students developed their legends, they stacked all of the pieces together to form a unique class totem pole. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3533 Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click here to read the Fall 2011 newsletter http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3501 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Edna Louise Spear Elementary School fifth-grade student Katie Ambrozy was awarded first place in the Shanti Fund Art Competition. Her artwork, which depicted this year's theme of "Peace and Love," was selected from 22 participating districts countywide. Katie had the opportunity to attend a ceremony at the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge, where she was presented with an award certificate from Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy for her outstanding achievement. In addition, she received a gift certificate for $142, which signifies Gandhi’s age if he were alive today. The Shanti Fund works to actively promote peace through education and the ideals and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3507 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT The district provides a comprehensive educational experience that allows students to explore the world of academia while cultivating the characteristics that make them unique. To highlight these ambitious young students, Edna Louise Spear Elementary School presented awards for Outstanding Work Ethic. Select students were nominated by departments and classroom teachers based on a variety of criteria, including positive attitude, leadership skills and good citizenship. Students who showed dedication to learning in the fields of physical education, the fine arts and classroom instruction were recognized at a recent Board of Education meeting and were encouraged to strive to meet their full potential. Congratulations to the following students for receiving the Outstanding Work Ethic Award: First grade - Ellery Tafuro and Drew Feinstein Second grade - Michael Tesser Third grade - Brooke Zamek and Noah Teaney Fourth grade - Shawn Stumpf Fifth grade - Chloe Andriani http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3418 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Members of the Port Jefferson educational community united for a celebration of peace. Wearing white, a symbol of harmony, students participated in a variety of artistic and educational activities to commemorate the United Nations National Day of Peace and Gandhi’s birthday. The district’s Parent Teacher Association created a "Caught Being Kind" bulletin board to acknowledge the random acts of kindness performed by elementary students throughout the day. Members of the Student Government Association invited their peers to display their favorite inspirational quotes in the main lobby of the high school, and visitors were welcomed into the building with inspirational music and images of iconic leaders displayed on every television. The high school’s hallways also featured moving visual presentations of student artwork depicting this year’s theme of "Peace and Love," while "Pinwheels for Peace," based on the artistic initiative inspired by the International Day of Peace, were exhibited on the school’s front lawn. In addition, the High School Chamber Choir and Wind Ensemble entertained students with melodic performances as they enjoyed lunch. As a ceremonial conclusion to the Day of Peace, Edna Louise Spear Elementary School students attended a musical performance featuring local singer/songwriter Andrew Fortier. Fortier, a Port Jeff resident and musician, met with elementary school students throughout the week during their music classes to teach them several songs, including his own "Peace and Love, Love and Peace," written especially for this year’s event. Following the festivities, high school students represented Port Jefferson and presented the district’s innovative Peace Day celebration highlights for a county-wide audience at the H. Lee Dennison Building. For putting forth a true community effort, special thanks go to all of the students, parents and teachers who helped organize this powerful day, including the PTA, Shanti Fund, and Director of Music and Fine Arts/event coordinator Michael Caravello. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3419 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Port Jefferson School District has the honor of announcing that three of its students have been named Semifinalists in the 2012 National Merit Scholarship Program. High school seniors Allison Cluett, Cole Conte and Weien Xu are part of the approximate 16,000 Semifinalists nationwide who will compete for some 8,300 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $34 million. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors and includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. In addition to the three students currently competing for scholarships, Rachel Liebert, Benjamin Neiman, Emma Neiman, Isabella Sanders and Isabelle Stark have received Commended status. These five students are part of the approximate 34,000 students nationwide whose high scores made them eligible for this award. Students received Letters of Commendation in recognition of their outstanding academic promise. Although Commended Students do not continue in the competition for National Merit Scholarships, these students have the opportunity to become candidates for Special Scholarships sponsored by corporations and businesses. About 1.5 million juniors, in some 22,000 high schools, entered the 2012 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2010 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which served as an initial screening of program entrants. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3417 Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Testing the Editor Date Added: Thursday, October 13, 2011 http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3247 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT The high school gymnasium pulsed with purple pride during the school’s pep rally which kicked off homecoming weekend. During the rally, students supported one another as the varsity athletic teams represented their squads in uniform and cheered for their classmates in preparation for the weekend of competition. Port Jefferson students, teachers, administrators and the community came together to participate in a variety of festivities to celebrate the district’s athletic and art programs. A parade through the village featured class floats that were inspired by this year’s theme, “Phantoms.” Students designed and built spooky floats that pulled from a wide range of fields, from pop culture through creative engineering. District administrators, Board of Education members, Grand Marshall Eva Grasso and Homecoming King and Queen David Greir and Courtney Fee rode atop convertibles, while crowds were entertained by the musical styling of student bands. Under the field lights, the Varsity Football team improved their record to 2-1 with a 22-21 win over Bayport-Blue Point. Kicker Vin Antonelli sealed the victory in the final seconds of the game by hitting a 19-yard field goal as time expired. Quarterback Dan Serignese led the team, throwing for 101 yards and completing a touchdown, while receivers Joe Booker and Phil Lanieri tallied 7 receptions for over 100 yards and a touchdown. As a team, the Royals rushed for more than 270 yards. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3189 Sat, 01 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education has approved a new two-year contract with the Port Jefferson Administrators Association that carries essentially no net increase in cost to the district. The agreement covers the 2010-11 (retroactively) and 2011-12 school years, and represents a significant step in meeting several of the Board's goals outlined in its July open letter to the community. The new agreement incorporates a salary freeze for last year. In this year, the contract reduces the number of vacation days granted. In exchange, a small one-time adjustment has been made to the Association members' base salaries that is offset by the reduction in the annual cost of unused vacation days, which may be cashed in each year. “We appreciate the willingness of our dedicated administrators to work collaboratively with the Board on a contract that is fair, reasonable, and carries essentially no net financial impact to the district while at the same time increasing their productivity,” said Board of Education President Mark Doyle. “Furthermore, as the contract expires at the end of this school year, our next round of discussions with the Association will benefit from any forthcoming information regarding our LIPA revenue and the impact of the 2% tax cap.” The Association currently represents six administrators as the district has cut its administrative ranks and total cost significantly in recent years. Positions that have been cut include Middle School Principal; Elementary School Assistant Principal; Director of Math/Science and Director of Technology; and Assistant Business Administrator. Additionally, the district recently eliminated the position of Deputy Superintendent which, though it isn’t in the bargaining unit, was the second-highest paid administrative position in the district. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3190 Sat, 01 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT The district has the honor of announcing that three of their students have been named Semifinalists in the 2012 National Merit Scholarship Program. High school seniors Allison Cluett, Cole Conte and Weien Xu are part of the approximate 16,000 Semifinalists nationwide who will compete for some 8,300 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $34 million. To join this elite group of Semifinalists, students excelled in a variety of academic areas. About 1.5 million juniors, in some 22,000 high schools, entered the 2012 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2010 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which served as an initial screening of program entrants. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors and includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. To become a Finalist, a Semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by the high school principal, and earn SAT scores that confirm the student’s earlier performance on the qualifying test. In addition, the Semifinalist and a high school official must submit a detailed scholarship application, which includes the student’s essay and information about his or her participation and leadership in school and community activities. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3191 Sat, 01 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT High school senior, Madison McKenna was awarded with the Long Island Arts Alliance (LIAA) Scholar-Artist Award of Merit in the category of Dance. This event, hosted by the Usdan Center for the Creative and Performing Arts and Newsday, recognized 20 outstanding high school age artists from both Nassau and Suffolk counties as Merit Scholars in categories included music, art, theater and dance. Guest speakers included Roger Tilles from the New York State Regent, LIAA Board of Directors and Usdan Executive Director Dale Lewis as well as Newsday Vice President of Public Affairs Paul Fleishman. Madison, along with the other Scholar-Artists will be recognized in a full-color spread in Newsday throughout the year in addition to expanded coverage on Newsday.com. At the awards ceremony Madison was joined by her parents Robert and Julie and Port Jefferson Director of Music & Fine Arts, Mr. Michael Caravello. http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3193 Sat, 01 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT ClickHEREfor the September 1, 2011 http://www.portjeffschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3428 Fri, 30 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT