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Special Education Post-Review Announcement – July 24, 2017

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Superintendent's Report - Summer 2017

It’s hard for me to believe that my first school year in Port Jefferson is over and that we are already busy preparing for a successful start to the 2017-18 school year. This past year was a very rewarding experience as I had the privilege of working with our students, staff, parents, and community. We wish our 97 graduates of the Class of 2017 well and look forward to hearing about their future accomplishments. I know that they will continue to make us proud.

The past school year resulted in many noteworthy accomplishments. Students excelled in all academic disciplines, the arts, and athletics. Students took advantage of the many opportunities that our school-community has to offer by participating in many clubs, competitions, and organizations, supporting many worthy causes, and being good citizens of our schools and community.

With the start of the 2017-18 school year just weeks away, administrators, teachers and staff are busy working to prepare our buildings, enhance and strengthen curriculum and develop new programs and courses. All of us in Port Jefferson are looking forward to watching students flourish in the new school year under the instruction, guidance and support of our talented educators.

While we prepare to strengthen the educational experience for our students, our Board of Education has commenced discussions on a bond proposal focused on improving our district’s facilities. In the near future, community residents will be invited to participate in conversations regarding potential capital improvements to be included in the bond and to provide input on the development of the project. We expect our first meeting to be held sometime in August.

I would like to thank the community for your continued support of our students and the Port Jefferson School District.

Have a safe and enjoyable summer!

Paul Casciano, Ed.D.

Investors Head to Washington

Investors Head to Washington Photo
The members of the Earl L. Vandermeulen High School investment team were recently presented with recognition awards at a ceremony in Washington, D.C.

The team earned the accolades after becoming the only team from New York State to place in the top 10 in the nation as part of the 14th annual SIFMA Foundation’s educational Stock Market Game.

During their visit to Washington, D.C., the students visited the White House and met with Sen. Chuck Schumer and Congressman Lee Zeldin.  

To earn their fifth-place spot, the team, comprised of students Joseph Cangemi, Alex DiCarlo and John DiCarlo, invested a hypothetical $100,000, during a 14-week period, in listed stocks, bonds and mutual funds to maximize the return on their portfolios.  




Student Musician to Serve as Concertmaster

Student Musician to Serve as Concertmaster Photo
Annalisa Welinder, a violinist from Port Jefferson’s Earl L. Vandermeulen High School has been selected as one of two concertmasters for the prestigious National Youth Orchestra of the USA as part of Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute. As a concertmaster, Welinder will represent Port Jefferson as a musical ambassador and travel around the world to play at some of the most famous concert halls, including Carnegie Hall on July 21. The Port Jefferson School District extends its congratulations to Annalisa Welinder on her outstanding musical achievement.




What a Year It Has Been!

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The 2016-2017 school year was filled with numerous accomplishments, exciting educational events and community service projects. This video highlights a few of those amazing achievements and milestones.

Port Jefferson BOE Members Sworn In; President, Vice President Re-Elected

Port Jefferson BOE Members Sworn In; President, Vice President Re-Elected Photo

During the Port Jefferson School District Board of Education’s annual reorganization meeting on July 11, the board unanimously re-elected Kathleen Brennan as board president and Mark Doyle as vice president.

District Clerk Janice Baisley also swore in board member Adam DeWitt who was re-elected by the community in May. Newly-elected board member David Keegan was sworn in earlier in the week.






Moving up to High School

Moving up to High School Photo
The academic achievements of Port Jefferson Middle School eighth-graders were recognized at a moving up ceremony on June 22 at Earl. L. Vandermeulen High School. 

During the event, the students received several special classroom recognitions, Presidential Awards for Academic Excellence and certificates to signify their move to high school. 

“You are an amazing group of eighth-graders,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Paul Casciano. “Embrace all that the high school has to offer and continue to make us proud.”

Middle School Principal Dr. Robert Neidig and eighth-grade Student Council President Hailey Hearney also spoke during the ceremony.  

 

All-County Honors

All-County Honors Photo
Earl L. Vandermeulen High School junior Thomas Mark was named an All-County lacrosse player for the 2017 spring season at an awards ceremony, held at Villa Lombardi’s in June 14.

Mark, who has been playing lacrosse since elementary school, received the honor after leading his team in points, explained coach Taylor Forstell.

“Thomas exhibits all the qualities you look for in a player, from his physical play and leadership, to his exceptional vision on the field,” Forstell said. “He is truly the quarterback of our offense and we look forward to having him back for his senior season.”

American Wax Museum

American Wax Museum Photo

Edna Louise Spear Elementary School fourth-graders brought history to life recently when they successfully created their own American wax museum in their classroom. For the project, each student researched an American historical figure from the Revolutionary War time period, wrote about the figure and created caricatures and timelines. They then performed as wax figures, dressed as their figure for fellow students who visited their classroom.

Heading to Middle School

Heading to Middle School Pic 1

The future Port Jefferson Class of 2024, celebrated their moving up to middle school at a ceremony on June 21 at the Earl L. Vandermeulen High School.

During the event, Edna Louise Spear Elementary School students, received special classroom, safety patrol and principal recognitions, as well as certificates to signify their promotion to middle school.

Speaking to the students during the ceremony was Superintendent of Schools Dr. Paul Casciano. He said, “This is a milestone in your education. It is your first significant accomplishment and I have no doubt that you will shine in sixth grade.”

Also, speaking at the ceremony was parent Jennifer Cobb. She said, “You should be proud of yourselves. This is an ending and a beginning.”

In her remarks to students, pre-K teacher Jennifer Guerrazzi offered the following advice to students: “Stay positive, try new things and reach for the stars.”

The ceremony also included the presentation of a class gift — two new garbage cans for the playground and special surprise gifts for the incoming fifth-grade class that will include messages from the outgoing fifth-graders.  

The event culminated with the students singing, “How Far I’ll Go” by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Principal Thomas Meehan left students with his words of wisdom. “Always help out someone who needs it,” he said.





Setting an Example

Setting an Example Photo
The Port Jefferson Board of Education recently recognized district administrators Danielle Turner, Ed.D., director of physical education, health and athletics, and Michael Caravello, Ed.D., director of music and fine arts, for setting a positive example to students by earning their doctorates this year. Pictured, from left, are Superintendent of Schools Dr. Paul Casciano, Dr. Turner, Dr. Caravello and BOE member Ellen Boehm.

Port Jefferson names tenured educators; bids farewell to retirees, board member

Port Jefferson names tenured educators Photo

At its June 13 meeting, the Port Jefferson Board of Education bid a farewell to three retiring employees and congratulated three educators on receiving tenure.

District administrators stood to speak highly of retirees Lorraine Novellino, an elementary school teacher; Carrie Morgan, a high school art teacher, and Maureen Colin, a teacher aide.

“We wish each of you the very best in the next phase of your lives,” said Board of Education President Kathleen Brennan.

After heartfelt goodbyes, the district approved tenure for Caitlin Terrell, a teaching assistant; Selinda Moore, a library media specialist, and Paige Lohmann, a special education teacher.

In addressing the newly tenured employees, Ms. Brennan said, “We hope you each continue to the promise we have seen in you and you have a long and successful career here in Port Jefferson.”  

Additionally, the board of education took a moment to recognize retiring member Robert Ramus, who has served on the board since 2008.

“He has been a dedicated board member and has even served on three committees at a time,” said Ms. Brennan. “He has provided very valuable insights throughout his tenure and we wish him well.

The board additionally thanked student board member Kyra Becker for her service and wished her well on her future. Kyra will be attending Liberty College in the fall to pursue studies in finance and cyber security.




Fifth Place for Golfer

Fifth Place for Golfer Photo
Earl L. Vandermeulen High School sophomore Shane DeVincenzo took fifth place at the NYS Federation Golf Tournament held at Bethpage State Park on June 11.

During the highly competitive game, Shane, faced off against 24 top public and private school players from around the state on Bethpage black, a 71-par course that is considered one of the toughest on the pro-circuit. He finished with an impressive score of 79.

He earned the chance to compete at the tournament after capping off a tremendous season with a sixth-place finish at the NYSPHAA high school golf tournament. 

“Shane just may be one of the best golf players in the school’s history,” said Danielle Turner, Ed.D.., director of health, physical education and athletics.

The Port Jefferson School District extends its congratulations to Shane DeVincenzo.  



Student Musicians Participate in Master Class

Student Musicians Participate in Master Class Photo
Port Jefferson Middle School orchestra students participated in a master class with two members of the Three Village Chamber Players on June 9. During the session, violinist Natalie Kress and bassist Jonathan Davies performed excerpts from Reinhold Gliere and then worked with the student-musicians to polish their concert performances pieces. Students also learned about leadership within the orchestra and differentiating articulation and dynamics. 


Artists win art competition

Artists win art competition photo
Earl L. Vandermeulen High School junior Tatum Hurney and Port Jefferson Middle School eighth-graders Jacqueline Poten and Hannah Skulla were finalists in the “Park a Day in May” art competition, sponsored by Suffolk County Legislator Kara Hahn. For the competition, the students visited a local park and then drew their favorite Suffolk County landmark or scenic view. From left, is Suffolk County Legislator Kara Hahn, Jacqueline Poten, Hannah Skula and middle school art teacher Stacey Shuman.

Class of 2017 Joins Ranks of Port Jeff Alumni

Class of 2017 Joins Ranks of Port Jeff Alumni Photo

Dressed in purple and white caps and gowns, the 2017 Earl. L. Vandermeulen High School graduating class was presented with diplomas at a ceremony on June 23.

During the commencement, speakers offered congratulations and words of wisdom. Among those addressing the students were Superintendent of Schools Dr. Paul Casciano, High School principal Christine Austen and valedictorian Chiara Rabeno and salutatorian Xinyi Hong gave a unique unison address.

The district extends its congratulations to the Class of 2017 and wishes them a successful future.





Earl L. Vandermeulen High School Named Reward School

Earl L. Vandermeulen High School Named Reward School Photo
In recognition of its excellent educational program and stellar student performance, Port Jefferson’s Earl L. Vandermeulen High School has once again earned the prestigious New York State Department of Education Reward School designation.

“This award would not have been possible without all of the significant contributions made by our teachers, staff, administration, parents and students,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Paul Casciano. “We congratulate all of them for ensuring that Port Jefferson continues its path of excellence in education.”

The New York State Department of Education presents the award annually to schools that have made the most progress or have the highest performance in the state with no significant gaps in student achievement. Earl L. Vandermeulen High School was one of only 185 schools across New York State to receive the recognition this year. 

This is not the first time that the Port Jefferson School District has been recognized with a Reward School Designation. The district’s high school has earned the honor consistently since the 2012-2013 school year.  
 
 

History Knowledge Pays Off

History Knowledge Pays Off Photo
Port Jefferson Middle School student Andrew Patterson recently showed off his history smarts at the National History Bee National Championship in Atlanta, Georgia. 

During the two-day competition, he participated in several buzzer and test rounds and placed in the top 60 out of 285 competitors. Andrew earned his spot in the national competition after competing in the regional competition, held in Connecticut in April. 

The Port Jefferson School District extends its congratulations to Andrew Patterson.        
 

An Evening to Remember

An Evening to Remember Photo
An Evening to Remember Photo 2
An Evening to Remember Photo 3
The members of the Earl L. Vandermeulen High School Class of 2018 recently attended their junior prom at Danfords Hotel in the Village of Port Jefferson. The students, dressed in their best, spent the evening enjoying each other’s company while dancing and taking candid photos in a surprise photo booth.

Promoting Wellness in Schools

PJWellness.jpg
The Port Jefferson School District in conjunction with It Takes a Village Wellness/Education Alive recently presented a community presentation, called “Promoting Wellness in Our Schools and Community. The presentation focused on tools for effective management of stress and anxiety through simple movement and breathing techniques, mindfulness practices and the importance of good nutrition. It also featured a student activity area for school-age children. To watch a livestream of the presentation, visit https://livestream.com/accounts/18260106/events/7479281.

Student Golfer Ends on a High Note

Student Golfer Ends on a High Note Photo

Earl L. Vandermeulen High School golf team member Shane DeVincenzo capped off a tremendous season with a sixth-place finish in the NYSPHAA high school golf championship, held at Cornell University.

During the competition, Shane battled through tough weather conditions to end the day with a total 151. In addition to his sixth placement, he secured All-State honors and a chance to play in the Federation Cup at Bethpage Black.

“Shane’s success is a direct result of a tireless work ethic and desire to be the best. He handled himself like a pro and I couldn’t be prouder,” said coach Charles Ruoff.

 

Civil War Lesson

Civil War Lesson Photo
Port Jefferson Middle School seventh-graders studying the Civil War recently heard from guest speaker and alumnus Michael Tessler. During the presentation, arranged by teacher Mr. Philip Giannusa, Tessler provided insight into the war between the north and the south. Tessler is currently producing a film about the Battle of Long Island during the Revolutionary War and has spoken to Port Jefferson students about the Culper Spy Ring in the past. “The students loved his personality and it was nice for them to hear from a former student who is successful in our community,” said Mr. Giannusa.  


Softball standouts

Softball standouts photo
Two Earl L. Vandermeulen High School softball players were recognized with awards at the Suffolk County Softball Awards Dinner, held at Villa Lombardi’s on June 13. During the ceremony, senior Jackie Brown was presented with an All-County award and sophomore Taylor Catoggio earned an All-League title. “Once again, we are proud to recognize and celebrate the successes of our student-athletes,” said Danielle Turner, director of health, physical education and athletics. “Jackie and Taylor continue to prove themselves as exceptional in the classroom and on the field.”     




Latin Students Earn High Marks

Latin Students Earn High Marks Photo

Latin students at Port Jefferson Middle School and Earl L. Vandermeulen High School recently took the 2017 National Latin Exam and earned some of the highest marks in the country and world. To celebrate their success, each student was awarded for their accomplishments at a luncheon on June 2 in the high school library.

During the event, the students, who were among 149,000 students from 50 states and 16 foreign countries to take the annual exam, were presented with certificates of achievement as their parents looked on. 

Notably, Hugo Onghai, earned a perfect score on the Intro to Latin exam. 

The Port Jefferson School District extends its congratulations to the following students for earning medals: 

Intro to Latin
Hugo Onghai Perfect Score Certificate plus a ribbon
Kasumi Layne-Stasik Outstanding Achievement Certificate plus a ribbon
Andrew Patterson Outstanding Achievement Certificate plus a ribbon
Kate Sommerstad Outstanding Achievement Certificate plus a ribbon
Stefano Rabeno Outstanding Achievement Certificate plus a ribbon
David Lawler Outstanding Achievement Certificate plus a ribbon
Annie Maier Achievement Certificate 
Caelan Schretzmayer Achievement Certificate 

Latin I 
Peggy Yin gold medal, summa cum laude
Mattea Rabeno gold medal, summa cum laude
Grant Samara gold medal, summa cum laude
Lucas Welinder gold medal, summa cum laude
Sapphire Perera gold medal, summa cum laude
Liam Gameng gold medal, summa cum laude
Royce Perera gold medal, summa cum laude
Nicole Schully gold medal, summa cum laude
Michela Rabeno gold medal, summa cum laude 
Aaron Held silver medal, maxima cum laude
Grace Keegan silver medal, maxima cum laude
Ameen Khan silver medal, maxima cum laude
Atticus Furjanic silver medal, maxima cum laude
Selena Ueno magna cum laude
Faye Held magna cum laude
Valentina Velazquez magna cum laude

Latin II
Giuseppina Than gold medal, summa cum laude
Kyle Onghai gold medal, summa cum laude
Felicity Hyams gold medal, summa cum laude
Carmella Moran gold medal, summa cum laude
Lucas Rohman cum laude  

Latin III
Annalisa Welinder gold medal, summa cum laude
Ava Schully gold medal, summa cum laude
David Rotunno gold medal, summa cum laude
Katherine Ambrozy gold medal, summa cum laude
Gavin Barrett silver medal, maxima cum laude
Sabrina Schully silver medal, maxima cum laude
Sarah Hull silver medal, maxima cum laude
Taylor Corallo magna cum laude  
Ryan Kim magna cum laude  
Cameron Cohen magna cum laude  

Latin IV Prose
Joseph Samara silver medal, maxima cum laude
Ibuki Iwasaki silver medal, maxima cum laude
Cezanne Lojeski silver medal, maxima cum laude
Emma Gutmann silver medal, maxima cum laude 

Latin V Advanced Level
Luigia Than silver medal, maxima cum laude
Anita Rescia silver medal, maxima cum laude
Chiara Rabeno magna cum laude  
Matthew Pifko magna cum laude  
Xinyi Hong magna cum laude  




A night on Broadway

A night on Broadway Photo
Members of the Earl L. Vandermeulen High School Drama Club recently traveled to Broadway to see “A Bronx Tale” at the Longacre Theatre. Following the performance, the students met with members of the cast, who graciously took photos with the students and gave them insight into their respective careers and shared behind-the-scenes stories with them. 

Student Athletes Commit to Colleges

Student Athletes Commit to Colleges Photo

Earl L. Vandermeulen High School senior athletes, who have chosen to continue their athletic journeys at some of the nation’s top colleges in the fall, were honored at a mock signing on May 31. The Port Jefferson School District extends its congratulations to the following students:

Jillian Colucci – Marist College
Jackie Brown – Adelphi University
Brittany Fazin – LIU Post
Clare O’Connor – William Smith College
Chris Cheslock – SUNY Oneonta
Courtney Lewis – Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute




Student-Musicians Featured at Memorial Concert

Student-Musicians Featured at Memorial Concert Photo
The Earl L. Vandermeulen High School choir performed at the annual St. Charles Hospital Memorial Concert on June 2. The vocalists, under the direction of Lisa Scrom, performed several selections along with the renowned Sound Symphony Orchestra.  


Abstract Artist Field Trip

Abstract Artist Field Frip Photo
Abstract Artist Field Frip Photo 2
Edna Louise Spear Elementary School fifth-grade art students recently visited the East Hampton home and art studio of famous abstract artists Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner. While on the field trip, they also toured the LongHouse Reserve, a 16-acre reserve and sculpture garden, featuring the works of Buckminster Fuller, Dale Chihuly, Yoko Ono and Willem de Kooning. The trip, coordinated by elementary art teachers Richard Anderson and Nancy Randazzo, allowed the students to not only explore art, but their own creativity.

Fifth in the Nation

Fifth in the Nation Photo
The Earl L. Vandermeulen High School investment team has become the only team from New York State to place in the top 10 in the nation as part of the 14th annual SIFMA Foundation’s educational Stock Market Game. 

To earn their fifth-place placement, the team, made up of students Joseph Cangemi, Alex DiCarlo and John DiCarlo, invested a hypothetical $100,000, over a 14-week period, in listed stocks, bonds and mutual funds to maximize the return on their portfolios.  

Showing a large hypothetical profit, the team will now head to Washington, D.C. on June 21 to be recognized at an awards reception on Capitol Hill.

Strength is Key

Strength is Key Photo
In an effort to continue a mission to spread hope, help and strength through the halls of the Earl L Vandermeulen High School, seven members of the high school Sources of Strength group trained incoming freshman as peer leaders.

During the 90-minute training, held on May 26, 22 eighth-graders participated in group activities that were planned by the high school students and included powerful messages. Corrine Scannell, Billy Scannell, Samantha Acampora, Ava Schully, Matt Pifko, David Moir and Alexa Wakefield were the peer leaders.

“The seven Sources of Strength students spent a lot of thoughtful time and energy designing inclusive activities that made the eighth-graders feel comfortable to share while also creating an environment of trust and openness,” said Port Jefferson School District social worker Kristin Britt. Ms. Britt advises the program along with guidance counselors Kerri Neligon and Kathi Galvin and school psychologist Kristen Wendel.

The eighth-grade participants were nominated for the training by their teachers. Nominations were based on which students could provide support to their peers should they need support during difficult times.

“They are considered the connectors between their peers and trusted adults within the school,” said Britt.


Second-Graders Pen Fairy Tales

Second-Fraders Pen Fairy Tales Photo
Second-Fraders Pen Fairy Tales Photo 2
Second-Fraders Pen Fairy Tales Photo 3
Second-Fraders Pen Fairy Tales Photo 4

Edna Louise Spear Elementary School second-graders in Carleen Parmegiani’s class recently wrote and illustrated their own fairy tales as part of a reading and writing unit on fairy tales. To culminate the unit of study, they shared their works with their parents and fellow students during a fairy tale celebration on June 2. In addition to writing their own fairy tales, the students, created an informational video about fairy tale writing and kept logs on the progress of their writing in the form of a classroom newsletter.



Track Stars Qualify for States

Track Stars Qualify for States Photo
Six Earl L. Vandermeulen High School spring track and field stars have qualified for the state competition to be held at Union-Endicott High School on June 9 and 10. 

The student athletes, Liam McSweeney, Alex Rebic, Grant Samara, Cooper Schoch, Sabrina Schully and Sam Walker and earned their spots in the NYSPHSAA state competition after competing in the state qualifier held at Stony Brook University on June 3 and 4. 

At the state competition, Sam Walker will compete in the 1600, 3200 and 4x800; Alex Rebic, Cooper Schoch and Liam McSweeney in the 4x800; Grant Samara in the 3000 Steeplechase; and Sabrina Schully in the outdoor pentathlon for girls track and field. 

The Port Jefferson School District extends its congratulations to the student athletes.

Learning the dangers of distracted driving

distracted driving pic 1
distracted driving pic 2
distracted driving pic 3
Over the course of three sessions, Earl L. Vandermeulen High School seniors learned about the dangers of distracted driving through a Stony Brook University program. During the sessions, the students heard from speakers, watched an informational video and took part in interactive activities, including attempting to walk while distracted by their phones and driving using a driving simulator.   “The goal of the program is to emphasize to students the importance of paying attention to the road while driving and to recognize the danger that exists when distracted,” said Danielle Turner, director of health, physical education and athletics.    




Varsity Teams Earn Distinguished Award

Varsity Teams Earn Distinguished Award image
The New York State Public High School Athletic Association has recognized all of Earl L. Vandermeulen High School’s spring varsity teams with Scholar/Athlete Team Awards. 

To earn the awards, each team met the criteria of maintaining a group GPA of 90 percent during the spring season.

“The Athletic Department is extremely proud of our athletes. This designation shows that they are not only dedicated to their sport(s), but to their studies,” said Danielle Turner, director of physical education, health and athletics.

The Port Jefferson School District extends its congratulations to the members of the spring varsity teams, including softball, baseball, girls and boys lacrosse, boys and girls track and field and boys tennis.


Student Musicians and Artists Create Digital Portfolios

Student Musicians and Artists Create Digital Portfolios Photo
Port Jefferson School District middle school and high school music and fine arts students have been designing digital portfolios using Google Classroom technology. As part of the project, they are uploading video and photos of the musical performances or artwork along with reflections of their progress throughout the school year.  “Moving forward, these students will continue to add to their portfolios each year, creating a long-range digital record of their progress from year to year,” said Dr. Michael Caravello, director of music and fine arts.

Summer Research

Summer Research Photo
Earl L. Vandermeulen High School sophomore Josh Gelfond will be spending his summer researching alternative energy at Stony Brook University as part of the Reuter Research Group. 

Josh was selected for the program following a recommendation from a Stony Brook graduate student who he has been working with as part of his regular studies. 

“I am really looking forward to applying what I have been learning in class to the real world,” said Josh. “It will be a great experience.”

Through the Stony Brook program, Josh will work closely with Stony Brook professor Dr. Mathew Reuter of the Institute for Advanced Computational Science at Stony Brook, and graduate students and Ph.D. students in a lab setting. As the only high school student accepted to the program, Josh will assist in developing mathematical modeling and computational and statistical analysis of experimental research data related to the conductivity and movements of molecules and electrons through matter.

When not studying, Josh plays varsity tennis where he has earned an All-County title and golf. He is also a member of his school’s Mathletes team. He intends to study applied mathematics in college.


Ensembles Perform at NYSSMA Majors Festival

Ensembles Perform at NYSSMA Majors Festival Photo
Port Jefferson Middle School’s seventh- and eighth-grade orchestra and Earl L. Vandermeulen Concert Band performed at the NYSSMA Major Organization Festival at Connetquot High School on May 23. The ensembles, conducted by music teachers Christine Creighton and Christian Neubert, performed several pieces for a panel of adjudicators, who evaluated them on quality of performance and level of musicianship. The Port Jefferson School District congratulates the student-musicians on their outstanding performances.   




Students Showcase Musical Talents

Students Showcase Musical Talents Photo

During the month of May, Port Jefferson School District music students showcased their musical abilities at various concerts for parents and friends. The concerts featured music practiced by students since December. “The music department is proud of the hard work and dedication the students put in to make this year’s spring concert series a success,” said Michael Caravello, director of music and fine arts.







Celebrating differences

Celebrating differences Photo
Port Jefferson Middle School students learned to embrace and celebrate their individual differences during an assembly-featuring speaker Dylan Brady on May 19.

During the assembly, Dylan performed original music and explained that while he has Tourette syndrome, he is an accomplished athlete, singer, attends college and teaches acceptance and tolerance about Tourette syndrome.

Dylan’s message resonated with many of the students and they spoke about Dylan’s performance after the assembly.

“This presentation gave me a lot of knowledge about Tourette syndrome. It’s amazing how it doesn’t impact Dylan while he is performing,” said seventh-grader Kate Sommerstad.

“I learned, from Dylan, that we can all do what we love, no matter what setbacks we may face,” said sixth-grader Amy Whitman.

Seventh-grader Michael Scannell agreed with his classmates and said, “I learned, that although Dylan struggled in high school, he was able to find his passion and become successful.”

Livestream Recording



Promoting Wellness in Our Schools & Community

Save the Date: Promoting Wellness in Our Schools & Community Photo
The Port Jefferson School District in conjunction with It Takes a Village Wellness/Education Alive will present a community presentation, titled “Promoting Wellness in Our Schools and Community” on June 7, from 6:30-8 p.m., in the Earl L. Vandermeulen High School library.

The presentation will focus on tools for effective management of stress and anxiety through simple movement and breathing techniques, mindfulness practices and the importance of good nutrition. It will also feature a student activity area for school-age children.   

For those who are unable to attend, the program will be streamed live on the district’s website at www.portjeffschools.org.




Monday, July 24, 2017
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550 Scraggy Hill Road | Port Jefferson, NY 11777 | Phone (631) 791-4500 | FAX: (631) 476-4409

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