The Edna Louise Spear Elementary School community wrapped up its Pick A Reading Partner (PARP) celebration last month. PARP, a statewide program administered by the PTA, is designed to encourage families to read together and build lifelong reading habits.

This year’s theme, “Read Like an Olympian!”, is connected to the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Italy. Just as athletes train for excellence, students learned that strong readers develop their skills through goal-setting, practice, determination, perseverance, and grit. Throughout the celebration, students were encouraged to recognize how the same dedication they bring to athletics can also help them become confident and enthusiastic readers.

The celebration began in true Olympic style with the Read Like an Olympian 2026 Torch Lighting Ceremony. Students and staff cheered during a spirited parade through the building that culminated in a memorable moment: the school’s mascot, Royal the Lion, proudly lighting the ceremonial torch at the end of the parade route. The event energized the school community and set the tone for a fun and meaningful PARP experience.

One of the highlights of the program was the Gold Medal Games. Families returned to “Scraggy Stadium” to participate in Olympic-themed activities alongside Varsity Club athletes. The evening celebrated reading, teamwork, and school spirit while bringing families together in support of literacy. Throughout the two-week celebration, students and families embraced the spirit of PARP by making time to read together, reinforcing the message that with practice and dedication, just like Olympians, great achievements are possible

The Port Jefferson community came together last month to host a special blood drive in honor of Jaxon, a BOCES student at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School. The event aimed to raise awareness about the life-saving impact of blood donation and to help ensure local hospitals had the supply they needed to care for patients.

A representative from the New York Blood Center visited Edna Louise Spear Elementary School to speak with students in grades 3–5 about the importance of donating blood. During the presentation, students learned about donor requirements, what happens during a blood shortage, and how hospitals depend on blood drives to save lives every single day. The session sparked meaningful conversations, with students asking thoughtful questions and gaining a deeper understanding of how one donation can make a powerful difference.

The blood drive held special meaning for the school community. Jaxon was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome and Shone’s complex, a serious congenital heart condition that required multiple open-heart surgeries. Throughout his medical journey, including time on life support, Jaxon received countless blood transfusions that were critical to his survival and recovery. His experience opened the eyes of his family and school community to the profound importance of blood donations.

“Blood donors helped save Jaxon’s life,” organizers shared. “Hosting this drive was our way of giving back and helping other families who may one day rely on the generosity of strangers.” Community members who met the donation requirements were encouraged to participate in the blood drive. Each donation had the potential to save multiple lives and directly support patients in local hospitals.

Date Added: 3/13/2026

Port Jefferson School District proudly announces that its Director of Physical Education was recognized at the Suffolk Zone Professional Awards Dinner for outstanding leadership and contributions to physical education and athletics.

The Suffolk Zone chapter of the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (NYS AHPERD) hosts the annual awards dinner to celebrate educators and professionals who have demonstrated excellence, dedication, and service in the fields of health, physical education, recreation, and athletics across Suffolk County.

During the ceremony, Port Jefferson’s Director of Physical Education was honored among colleagues and leaders in the profession for their commitment to promoting student wellness, supporting athletic programs, and fostering a positive culture of physical activity throughout the district.

Under their leadership, the district’s physical education and athletics programs have continued to grow, providing students with meaningful opportunities to develop lifelong healthy habits, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Their work has helped strengthen programs across all grade levels while supporting coaches, teachers, and student-athletes.

In addition, the Port Jefferson School District recently recognized Mr. Sherrard at its most recent Board of Education meeting, where district leaders publicly congratulated him on this achievement and expressed their appreciation for his leadership and service to the school community.

The recognition highlights the impact of dedicated educators who work each day to ensure students have access to high-quality physical education and athletic experiences. The Port Jefferson School District congratulates its Director of Physical Education on this well-deserved honor and thanks them for their continued dedication to the students and school community.

 

Date Added: 3/12/2026

Port Jefferson Middle School eighth-grade students recently visited the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County in Glen Cove for a profound day of learning and reflection.

Through guided tours and interactive exhibits, students moved beyond the pages of their textbooks to explore the history of the Holocaust and the vital importance of empathy, tolerance, and moral courage. The experience allowed students to engage with history in a meaningful way, encouraging them to reflect on the consequences of prejudice and the responsibility individuals have to stand up for others.

The visit also fostered thoughtful dialogue among students, who asked insightful questions and made connections between the lessons of the past and the challenges facing society today. School leaders and staff members were impressed by the maturity, respect, and curiosity the students demonstrated throughout the trip.

The field trip was organized by English teacher Kayleen Everitt to help students build background knowledge before beginning their study of Night by Elie Wiesel in their English classes. By visiting the center, students were able to develop a deeper understanding of the historical context and personal stories that shape the powerful memoir. “We are incredibly proud of the maturity and respect our students displayed throughout this experience,” Everitt said. “We hope that they carry these lessons with them, choosing to act with courage and kindness in their daily lives.” 

By connecting the lessons of history to their own actions and responsibilities, Port Jefferson Middle School students are continuing to grow as compassionate, informed young leaders who can help foster a more inclusive and understanding community.

 

Click here to view the Port Jefferson Middle School Students Visit Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County in Glen Cove slideshow.

 

Date Added: 3/12/2026