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.

The Port Jefferson School District is excited to announce the appointment of Jason Venezia as the new Head Coach of the Port Jefferson Varsity Boys Lacrosse Team.

Coach Venezia brings a wealth of experience in creating a solid foundation in education, coaching, and leadership. He is a certified Health and Physical Education teacher in both New York and Vermont and has demonstrated a deep commitment to student-athlete development—both on and off the field.

Over the past two years, Coach Venezia has gained valuable coaching experience at the high school level, serving as a Junior Varsity Lacrosse Coach at Rutland High School (VT) and Bellport High School (NY). In addition to lacrosse, he has contributed to athletic programs as a football and basketball coach, further showcasing his versatility and ability to connect with student-athletes across sports.

A graduate of Sayville High School, Coach Venezia went on to enjoy a successful four-year collegiate lacrosse career as a defenseman at Castleton University/Vermont State University. His dedication to excellence extended into the classroom, earning him recognition on the New England Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association All-Academic Team in 2022 and the Little East Conference All-Academic Team from 2020–2022.

Known for his energy, knowledge of the game, and passion for mentoring young athletes, Coach Venezia is poised to make a positive and lasting impact on the Port Jefferson lacrosse program. The Port Jefferson School District is thrilled to welcome Coach Venezia and looks forward to an exciting future for Varsity Boys Lacrosse under his leadership.

 

Date Added: 1/15/2026

Port Jefferson School District is proud to announce that several Earl L. Vandermeulen High School string students have been selected to participate in the prestigious Secondary Long Island String Festival (LISFA), held this year at Eastport-South Manor High School.

The selected students include Allie Blumenthal (grade 11), Mari Fukuto (grade 12), Nicholas Hogan (grade 11), Joshua Kwon (grade 11), Nila Manian (grade 10), Maxwell Quartararo (grade 9), and Ava Sexton (grade 11). These talented musicians, representing grades 9 through 12, were chosen through a highly competitive selection process that included students from across Suffolk County.

Selection for LISFA is based primarily on New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) scores, along with teacher recommendations, recognizing students for their musical excellence, dedication, and achievement. Participation in this festival provides students with the opportunity to rehearse and perform alongside other outstanding young string musicians under the direction of accomplished conductors.

The Port Jefferson School District congratulates all of the selected string students on this impressive accomplishment and commends them for their hard work and commitment to musical excellence.
Photo 1: (L-R): Dr. Michael Caravello, Nila Manian, Mari Fukuto, Ava Sexton, Allie Blumenthal, Nicholas Hogan, Maxwell Quartararo, and Joshua Kwon.