The Port Jefferson Middle School string ensemble had the honor of performing the National Anthem at the Stony Brook University Men’s Home Basketball Game on January 15, prior to the matchup against Hofstra University.

The student musicians delivered a memorable performance in front of a packed arena, showcasing their talent, dedication, and musical excellence on a collegiate stage. The opportunity provided students with a unique and inspiring experience, connecting music education with a major university athletic event.

This special performance was made possible with the assistance of August Fortugno, Coordinator of Ticket Operations for Stony Brook University, whose support and coordination helped bring the event together. Port Jefferson Middle School is proud of the String Ensemble for representing the district with professionalism and pride, and for contributing to a memorable game-day atmosphere at Stony Brook University.

Edna Louise Spear Elementary School and Port Jefferson Middle School string students recently showcased their musical talent at the Intermediate Long Island String Festival (LISFA) held at Northport High School.

The following students, representing grades 5–8, were selected to perform at this prestigious festival: Seyanna Cerar (Grade 8), Magdalene Masone (Grade 5), Aria Olsen (Grade 5), Sude Ozgur (Grade 8), Annika Schenke (Grade 5), and Addison Schmettan (Grade 6).

Students were chosen through a competitive selection process that included musicians from across Suffolk County. Selection was based primarily on New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) scores, along with teacher recommendations, highlighting both technical skill and musical achievement.

Participation in LISFA provides students with the opportunity to perform challenging repertoire alongside talented peers while working with experienced conductors. Congratulations to all selected Port Jefferson string students on this outstanding accomplishment. Their hard work and dedication to music are commendable and reflect the strength of the Port Jefferson string program. 

 

Date Added: 2/4/2026

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.