This summer, elementary and middle school students across the Port Jefferson School District took part in the district’s highly anticipated Summer Arts Camp. This enriching program combined music and visual arts in a fun and supportive environment.

The annual camp welcomed both beginning and intermediate students in band and string programs, offering a positive and engaging opportunity for young musicians to either begin their instrumental studies or continue honing their skills. With instruction from experienced music educators, students participated in group lessons, ensemble rehearsals, and activities designed to build confidence, technique, and a love for music.

For students interested in the fine arts, the camp featured hands-on classes in drawing and sculpture. Under the guidance of certified art instructors, participants explored various artistic techniques, developed their creative expression, and worked on both individual and collaborative projects.

“Our Summer Arts Camp is a wonderful way to give students a head start going into the school year—whether they’re picking up an instrument for the first time or expanding their talents in the visual arts,” said Dr. Michael Caravello. “It’s all about learning in a joyful, low-pressure setting where students can grow and be inspired.”

The camp not only reinforced artistic skills but also fostered a sense of community and collaboration among students from different schools and grade levels. The Port Jefferson School District would like to thank the dedicated staff, faculty, and families who supported this year's Summer Arts Camp.

Click here to view the Port Jefferson School District Hosts Successful Summer Arts Camp for Budding Musicians and Young Art slideshow.

Date Added: 8/12/2025

Summer in the Port Jefferson School District is in full swing with a dynamic lineup of summer athletic camps designed to engage and inspire students in kindergarten to eighth grade. Hosted by the District’s dedicated varsity coaches and supported by varsity student-athlete volunteers, the camps provide young athletes with the opportunity to develop their skills, stay active, and learn from some of the District’s top athletic role models.

So far, the District has proudly hosted the following camps:

* Soccer camp: 31 enthusiastic campers worked on footwork, strategy, and team play.

* Baseball camp: 29 young athletes practiced fielding, hitting, and game fundamentals.

*Lacrosse camp: 16 participants learned essential stick skills, advanced passing drills, and effective game tactics.

Each camp was led by Port Jefferson’s experienced varsity coaching staff, with support from high school athletes who volunteered their time as camp counselors, fostering a strong sense of mentorship and community. The District also hosted a tennis camp, where seven campers enjoyed personalized instruction and rally play, and a multi-sport camp, where students participated in a variety of sports and games designed to promote physical literacy and teamwork.

The summer athletics program continues with track camp, held on Wednesday nights through August 13, giving students ongoing opportunities to develop running technique, speed, and endurance.

Upcoming camps include:

* Girls volleyball camp: July 21-24

* Basketball camp: August 4-7

* Multi-sport camp 2: August 4-7

* Football camp: August 11-14

* Cheerleading camp: August 18-21

“These camps are a highlight of our summer programming,” Athletics Director Adam Sherrard said. “They give our younger students a chance to learn new skills in a fun and supportive environment, while our varsity athletes get to give back to the community in a meaningful way.”

The District encourages families to explore additional opportunities by visiting the Athletics page on the Port Jefferson School District website, where camp fliers and registration information are available. Port Jefferson’s summer athletic camps continue to foster a culture of growth, leadership, and school pride—on and off the field.

Click here to view the Port Jefferson School District Kicks Off Summer Athletic Camp slideshow.

Date Added: 7/22/2025

Earl L. Vandermeulen High School has been recognized as a School of Excellence by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) for the 2024-2025 school year—an honor that highlights the school's outstanding commitment to academic achievement among its student-athletes.

“The School of Excellence Award is a testament to our students’ ability to succeed in the classroom and on the field,” said Principal John Ruggero. “We are incredibly proud of their commitment to upholding the high standards of our school and the values of sportsmanship and scholarship.”

The School of Excellence designation is awarded to schools where at least 75% of varsity teams earn the NYSPHSAA Scholar-Athlete Team Award, recognizing teams that achieve a cumulative GPA of 90 or above. Earl L. Vandermeulen High School's accomplishment reflects the hard work, dedication, and discipline of its student-athletes, coaches, and academic staff in fostering a culture that values both athletic and academic success.

“The balance our students strike between academics and athletics is remarkable,” said Athletic Director Adam Sherrard. “This award recognizes not only their achievements but also the supportive environment created by our coaches, teachers, and families.”

Earl L. Vandermeulen High School’s recognition as a 2024-2025 NYSPHSAA School of Excellence underscores the school’s continued commitment to nurturing student leaders who thrive in all aspects of their high school experience.

Date Added: 7/22/2025