The Port Jefferson School District is proud to extend its heartfelt congratulations to Kristyn Anumolu, a beloved secondary English teacher at Earl L. Vandermeulen High School, for her exceptional dedication to fostering a positive and engaging classroom environment. Ms. Anumolu’s commitment to teaching and her outstanding contributions to her students' academic and personal growth have significantly impacted our entire school district community, earning her well-deserved recognition.

Ms. Anumolu is widely admired by her students and colleagues for her vibrant teaching style and unwavering support. Described as a fun and approachable teacher, she strives to make the classroom experience as enjoyable and rewarding as possible. Known for creating an atmosphere of openness and genuine connection, Ms. Anumolu makes every student feel seen and valued, ensuring they are equipped with academic knowledge and the confidence to succeed.

Kristyn is an educator who brings both passion and creativity into her teaching, said Principal John Ruggero. She goes above and beyond to cultivate an inclusive, engaging, and supportive classroom environment. We are proud to honor her for the incredible work she does and the positive influence she has on her students.

A dedicated professional, Ms. Anumolu holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in English literature, journalism, and secondary English from CUNY Brooklyn College and St. Bonaventure University. She began her teaching career at Midwood High School in Brooklyn, NY, as a New York City Teaching Fellow, before continuing her career at I.S. 228 in Brooklyn. Since joining the Port Jefferson Secondary English Department in 2007, she has been a tireless advocate for student success.

In addition to her teaching duties, Ms. Anumolu co-advises The Mast, the school’s literary magazine, alongside colleague Chuck Ruoff, providing students with the opportunity to express themselves through creative writing and the arts. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Anumolu enjoys a fulfilling life in Smithtown with her husband, Praveen, and their two daughters, Sofia (11) and Sonje (7).

Date Added: 3/6/2025

Congratulations to Earl L. Vandermeulen High School’s varsity cheer team for their outstanding performance at the County Championships, at which they were County Champions! This impressive achievement earned the Royals a spot in the NYSPHSAA competitive cheerleading championships on March 8 in Binghamton, where they will represent Section XI.

The team—noted by their instructors for their dedication, hard work, and unwavering team spirit—has worked tirelessly to perfect their routines and take their performances to new heights. Their victory at the county championships is a testament to their commitment to excellence and the strength of their teamwork.

“We are incredibly proud of our varsity cheerleaders for their incredible performances and their commitment to excellence throughout this season,” said Emily Koplar, Coach of the Port Jefferson Varsity Cheer team. “This team has put in an immense amount of work, and we are beyond excited for the opportunity to compete at the state level.”

Date Added: 3/3/2025

Earl L. Vandermeulen High School and Port Jefferson Middle School recently held its annual P.S. I Love You week, organized by dedicated support staff members Tori Damm, Kristin Britt, Kerri Neligon, and Kristen Wendel. This special week was more than just a celebration—it was a powerful initiative designed to foster kindness, mindfulness, and positive connections across both the middle and high school communities.

P.S. I Love You week kicked off with a series of themed days that encouraged students and staff to embrace positivity and celebrate one another. Daily announcements highlighted each day’s theme while promoting mindfulness and gratitude, helping everyone reflect on the impact their words and actions have on others. This created an environment that not only encouraged kindness but also emphasized the importance of mental and emotional well-being.

On Friday, P.S. I Love You Day was celebrated with an uplifting atmosphere throughout the school. Energizing music played between classes, created an exciting and vibrant mood. Staff members wore specially designed shirts, further enhancing the sense of community. To mark the occasion, photo frames were set up throughout the school, allowing students and staff to capture joyful moments. One of the frames included affirmations, encouraging everyone to celebrate themselves and the positive spirit of the day.

The Port Jefferson School support staff is incredibly proud of the success of P.S. I Love You week and the overwhelming participation from students and staff. The initiative has left a lasting impact, spreading kindness and creating stronger bonds within the school community.

 

Click here to view the Port Jefferson School Celebrates Kindness and Positivity During P.S. I Love You Week slideshow.

 

Date Added: 2/25/2025

Earl L. Vandermeulen High School student, Tucker Stanton, along with his older brother, spearheaded the annual Teds for Tots initiative—an effort to collect new stuffed animals for children involved in difficult family court proceedings. The drive, which began two years ago, was inspired by a conversation with their mother, who works at a family court in Central Islip and has seen firsthand the emotional toll court proceedings take on children.

Tucker’s mother has represented many children who were required to attend family court hearings, often related to custody disputes or cases of neglect and abuse. During these proceedings, children often are made to testify, adding extra stress to an already difficult situation. To help comfort these children, several judges in the court started providing stuffed animals, offering a small measure of comfort. However, due to the large number of children involved, the stuffed animal supply quickly ran out.

Recognizing the need for a more consistent solution, Tucker and his brother decided to launch the annual stuffed animal drive at Earl L. Vandermeulen High School. The brothers have worked tirelessly to collect donations, which they personally deliver to the family court each year. This year, the drive successfully gathered over 200 stuffed animals, making a significant impact on the children who will benefit from this act of kindness.

We hope to continue to grow our collection and perhaps add additional collection boxes in places like our public library,” said Tucker Stanton. “When I leave the district in about a year and a half, I would like to pass this initiative on to an underclassman to ensure that the tradition continues.

The Teds for Tots drive is a testament to the generosity and compassion of the Stanton brothers and the spirit of giving at Earl L. Vandermeulen High School. The ongoing success of this initiative has shown how small efforts can lead to a meaningful impact in the community.

Date Added: 2/24/2025

Earl L. Vandermeulen High School band students participate in the 64th annual Mid-Island Band Festival held at West Islip High School. This prestigious event brought together talented musicians from across the region. Port Jefferson was proudly represented by Meara Kelly (grade 12), Jamie Kircher (grade 11), Nathaniel Lawler (grade 12), Kay Moran (grade 10), Dylan Sproul (grade 9), Madison Testa (grade 11), Luca Thomsen (grade 9), and Charlotte Tishim (grade 11).

Under the guidance of their high school band teacher, Christine Creighton, these students had the opportunity to collaborate with other young musicians and perform in a concert that showcased their musical talents. 

“This event was a wonderful opportunity for our students to refine their skills, meet other passionate musicians, and perform alongside their peers in a supportive and inspiring environment,” said Ms. Creighton. “We are incredibly proud of their dedication and hard work in preparing for this event.”

The Port Jefferson School District congratulates all the students for their outstanding performances and thanks the Mid-Island Band Festival organizers for providing such a valuable experience for young musicians.
Photo 1:Dr. Michael Caravello, Jamie Kircher, Madison Testa, Meara Kelly, Nathaniel Lawler, Charlotte Tishim, Luca Thomsen, Kay Moran, and Dylan Sproul.
Photo 2: Dr. Michael Caravello, Jamie Kircher, Dylan Sproul, Charlotte Tishim, Madison Testa, Meara Kelly, Luca Thomsen, Kay Moran, Nathaniel Lawler, and Christine Creighton.

 

 

Date Added: 2/6/2025