Earl L. Vandermeulen High School and Port Jefferson Middle School students participated in the Special Olympics Suffolk County Youth Summit. This trip was organized by Port Jefferson’s Unified Sport coaches, Michelle Landetta, Gina Fedler, and Kristen Wendel.

This event included a series of student-led conferences designed to unite high school students from across Long Island. The summit aims to bring together students with and without disabilities to learn, connect, and collaborate on building more inclusive and supportive school communities.

During the event, student attendees joined peers from across the region to hear from youth leaders who are actively creating more inclusive school environments. These inspiring speakers shared their experiences, strategies, and personal stories, offering participants meaningful insights into how they can help strengthen acceptance and belonging within their own schools.

In addition to keynote sessions, students took part in a variety of interactive leadership activities. These hands-on experiences encouraged teamwork, creative problem-solving, and open dialogue, while reinforcing the importance of empathy, advocacy, and collaboration. The activities were designed to empower students to understand their own leadership potential and to inspire them to make positive changes in their communities.

By participating in the Special Olympics Suffolk County Youth Summit, Earl L. Vandermeulen High School and Port Jefferson Middle School continue their commitment to fostering an environment where all students feel valued, supported, and empowered to lead.

Click here to view the Earl L. Vandermeulen High School and Port Jefferson Middle School Students Attend Special Olympics Summit slideshow.

 

Port Jefferson Middle School proudly recognizes Shelby Olive, a compassionate and creative student who transformed her personal hobby into a meaningful fundraiser for local animal shelters.

Shelby began making bracelets simply for fun, but her passion quickly grew into a heartfelt mission to help animals in need. With support from family and friends, she sold her handmade bracelets at an event hosted at her mother’s friend’s workplace, raising approximately $200 for Last Chance Animal Rescue. Her dedication and generosity caught the attention of the organization, which has since invited her to participate in their weekly adoption events.

Shelby didn’t stop there. Motivated by the success of her first fundraiser and driven by her love for animals, she continued crafting bracelets and went on to raise an additional $200, which she proudly donated to the Kent Animal Shelter. Shelby’s efforts not only support local rescues but also highlight the impact that young people can make when they combine talent, compassion, and determination.

Port Jefferson Middle School celebrates Shelby’s achievements and applauds her for being a shining example of empathy, initiative, and community service.