“It was wonderful to see both Paige Gladstone and Jacob Kahrs honored at Huntington Town Hall as Whitman's Scholar Athletes of the Year,” said Schools Superintendent Dr. Bennardo. “These fine individuals embody the Renaissance spirit that fuels our community and generates hope for future generations.”
Paige Gladstone will be graduating in a couple weeks and plans on attending SUNY New Paltz where she will be enrolled in their 5 year Accounting Program. Ranked 90th out of her 426 senior classmates, Paige has a GPA of 93.4 and has taken many AP classes including AP Environmental Science and AP Calculus.
Paige is an outstanding athlete, playing lacrosse, field hockey and fencing all four years at Whitman. Paige was pulled up to the high school level in both lacrosse and field hockey in the 8th grade and in the 9th grade was a starter on both of those teams. She is also a valued member of outside leagues in both sports. In the summer Paige also serves as a captain on her swim team.
Congratulations Paige Gladstone!
Jacob Kahrs is graduating near the top 10% of his senior class with a cumulative GPA at 96% and there is no let-up in his academic success. Jacob’s senior year GPA is over 98%. Jacob is a role model for all students and athletes at Whitman. His dedication to academic excellence and athletic achievement are exemplary.
Jacob’s accomplishments in cross-county include 2nd team All-County, 1st Team All-League and All-Division honors. In Winter track Jacob was awarded All-County Academic Honors, All-League Honors, and this past March Jacob finished 3rd in the NY State Championships in the 1600 Medley.
In addition to Jacob’s academic and athletic success, one of the traits that set Jacob apart from other students is his kindness and sincerity. Whether it’s a fellow student, teacher or administrator – all will tell you that Jacob is an outstanding person, always willing to lend a hand.
Jacob will be attending Williams College in the fall where he will be a member of the cross-country team.
Congratulations Jacob Kahrs!
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Huntington Awards Scholar Athletes
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History Making Performance
Congratulations to our Silas Wood Symphonic Band, whose members and Director, Mr. Ron Stanton, won the first gold medal with distinction at the NYSSMA Majors in the school's history.
FLUTES: Isabella Bermudez, Emily Boccia, Grace Buckshaw, Shannyn Cory, Emma David, Danielle DeGaray, Isabella Delfico, Evgenia Doddo, Abby Grant, Noor Hussain, Brianna Iacovone, Michael Jaramillo Cardona, Ellena Lunt, Sofia Marinucci, Alexandra Miller Henson, Bryn Kreismer, Jessica Mitchell, Michelle Mullin, Chloe Murphy, Margaret Neiland, Jeir Orellana, Daniela Santoiemma, Benjamin Schlansky, Shannon Turner, Bryce Vorbach, Grace Weigele
CLARINETS: Thomas Baranowski, Noah Biton, Tanner Cella, Jenna D’Alimonte, William Denis, Gina Diliberti, Abby Dinstell, Aiden Gardner, Marisa Havekotte, Matthew Masaya, Sabrina McEvoy, Alexa Mediate, Anthony Mendoza, Julia Ostermann, Chelsea Perry
BASS CLARINET: Daniel Donovan
ALTO SAXES: Grant Biederman, Matthew Crocco, Cal Eidinoff, Tyler Grosso, Brendan Kispert, Thomas Matthews, Leo Musitano
TENOR SAXES: Christopher Contessa, Saul Ramos, Aiden Wallace
BARITONE SAXES: Benjamin Joseph
TRUMPETS: Ryan Bahrenburg, William Barraco, Thomas Biryla, Thomas Breaton, Jack Chinsky, Carlo Conte, Tyhler Daniel, Matthew Desmond, Christopher Dorin, Maya Duclay, Justin Feinman, Joseph Kennedy, Timothy Klum, Jeremyh Lanz, Christopher Martino, Sameer Mehta, Darren Miceli, Daniel Monterosso, Jordan Moreno Quintanilla, Jack Neiland, Zach Reichhold, Maxfield Rodgers, Vincent Santoiemma, Christopher Scortichini, Jesse Strenger Skolnik, Bryan Unger, Liam Weigele
FRENCH HORNS: Hannah Cruz, Devin Gaynor, Aarav Shah
BARITONE HORNS: Bradley Guiteau, Roberto Hidalgo, Jeffrey Ponce, William Reyes
TROMBONES: Jason Granados, Victor Ottaviano, Sanjay Paul, Thomas Perez, Veronica Richards, Kelvin Sanchez, Paul Schiller, Roberto Vanacore
TUBAS: Daniel Castro Saravia, Brian Garcia, Joseph Grasso, Wendell Saint Jean
PERCUSSION: Tess Anderson, Mario Campbell, Colby Dell, Kurt Erthal, Justin Goldberg, Connor Hamilton, Scott Martin, Dana McGowan, Max Peretson, Alex Reiersen, Christopher Schindler, Caroline Schrama, and Adam Yosofi.
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Most Enthusiastic Goes To Stimson
Winning the coveted Miles for Michael Most “Enthusiastic” Building award was well deserved for the staff and students of Stimson. “They all came together for a special cause which was to me one of those “teachable” moments that are so special,” said Ms. Shelia Buhse, who conceived, organized, and directed this incredible event. “We were able to award the winning building with a free celebratory lunch provided by one of our most committed community vendors Umberto’s and it was served by the owner himself- Pat Mulligan!
Congratulations to the staff and students of Stimson Middle School!
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Hunting-Tony Awarded to Whitman Stage Crew
The red carpet was out recently at Engeman Theater in Northport when awards were handed out to performing arts students across the town for their plays and musicals. The 5th Annual Hunting-Tony Awards recently recognized achievements in High School Theater over the past year. Congratulations to all the Whitman groups who were nominated in different categories.
Congratulations to Walt Whitman as the Best Stage Crew in a Musical“How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.”
Stage Manager: Esteban Lopez
Assistant Stage Managers: Mollie Korn, Alex Sherry
Deck Captains: Amina Sadiq, Anthony Padinha
Stagehands: Samson Grimm, Paul Lahm, Elizabeth Plaisir, Casey Iannuzzi, Erika Rivas, Elizabeth Havjar, Natalie Hayes, John Parra, Rob Leonick, Adrianna Padinha, Jared Saget, Jessica Delaney
Lighting Crew: David Caliendo, Lina Weingarten
Followspot Operators: Abaseen Khan, Katie Clark
Sound Crew: Hans Bas – Supervisor, Josh Berger, Aidan Hoskey, Michael DiMaulo, and Matt Jacobsen.
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June Athletes of the Month
Congratulations to Jameson Latko and Sarah Glaser, our June Athletes of the Month.
Jameson Latko is finishing up his senior year on a high note as the runner-up in the Suffolk County Badminton finals. “I love the laid-back environment we have in badminton because it allows the dedicated people to really thrive,” said Jameson. “If you’re dedicated to the sport, you know what you need to do to win.” Jameson, who will be attending SUNY Binghamton in the fall also played soccer and winter track.
Whitman Sophomore Sarah Glaser loves to play softball and the team had a good season going deep into the playoff rounds. “I love it because it’s competitive and fun at the same time,” said the line-drive hitter who manages to get on base a lot. Sarah plays shortstop and centerfield and will be counted on heavily next season as seven players graduate and the team retools looking for another run at postseason play.
Congratulations to both of these fine athletes!
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Museum of New York’s History Opens at Maplewood
During the months of May and June, Mr. Keogh and Ms. Patino’s fourth-grade class at Maplewood Intermediate School created a very unique and exciting project. As a culminating activity, each student was assigned a time period in New York’s history.
During classroom and computer lab time, students gathered information and created an outline in order to create a museum room for their selected topic. Students also completed an “excavation sheet” that guided him or her through the process of creating their museum room. Students learned about the use of artifacts to study prehistory. Each child then used a large cardboard box and presentation board to create their exhibit. All of Maplewood’s classrooms and parents from Mr. Keogh and Ms. Patino’s fourth-grade class were invited to the grand opening of the Museum of New York’s History on Friday, June 12, 2015. Students were excited to share their information about their museum room with viewers!
Congratulations:Maryam Babar, Sidharth Bryan, Aquiles Araya Correa, Alexa Dikeakos, Isabella Dinulescu, Alexandra Dunn, Shelene Farquharson, Adam Fisch, Trevor Galgano, Andy Vilorio Garcia, Gavin Gugliuzza, Bryant Machado Hernandez, Rachel Jerome, Jaziyah Kitt, Cecilia Lee, Joseph Lombardo, Kenyon Miles, Tyler Neri, Angelena Nguyen, Janaiya Quiles, Angel Molina Sorto, Frederick Steenson, Angelina Todaro, Samantha Unger, Gianna Vozza, and Carly Zimmer.
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Gold Key Athletes and Scholarship Winners Honored
Please join in congratulating our fine senior athletes who were recognized at this year's Gold Key Dinner. The gold key honorees have distinguished themselves by successfully participating in at least eight sports in nine seasons, starting from 10th grade, and throughout their Walt Whitman High School career.
Congratulations to: Elisabeth Auguste, Lauren Connolly, Abigail Daniels, Joseph DiPiero, Natalie Dunn, Rodrigo Gallegos, Connor Galvin, Paige Gladstone, Matthew Goodman, Jacob Kahrs, Jameson Latko, Chad Maier, Katelyn Neuman, Jonathan O’Toole, Shamar Powell, Joshua Roiland, Nicole Rowe, Jonathan Sparling, MaryRose Stone, Jonathan Vital, and Sean Wuestman.
These impressive athletes were also joined on stage by our 2015 Booster Club Scholarship winners who have distinguished themselves in a variety of successful athletic, leadership, and academic endeavors.
Congratulations to: Jordan Aiken, Donald Bonaventure, Thomas Ferrante, Diamond Garcia, Matthew Goodman, Colleen Harrington, Russell Kielawa, Laura McAuley, Katelyn Neuman, Sean Mc Entee, Christina Mc Felia, Jonathan O’Toole, Derick Ramos, Alexis Restmeyer, Joshua Roiland, and Robert Senecal.
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Sixth-Grade Student Council Gets Official ‘Shout-Out’
The Silas Wood 6th grade Student Council spent a day at the New York State Capitol building with Assemblyman Mr. Chad Lupinacci. Mr. Lupinacci graciously spent time explaining the function of the assembly, senate and answered numerous questions from the students while they were seated on the Million Dollar Staircase in the New York State Capitol. “I was very impressed with the students’ passion for learning; everyone came prepared with interesting questions about state politics and current events,” said Lupinacci. “They all were very bright and have a very good understanding of what is going on in the world. Their parents and teachers should be very proud of how engaging and polite they were during their visit.”
The students’ visit to Albany included a tour of the State Capitol and a special introduction by Lupinacci in the Assembly Chamber when they were recognized by the speaker of the assembly, who gave the kids a "shout out" during the formal meeting.“Students are always welcome to visit my Albany office to get a firsthand look at the political hub of New York State. I hope to see them again in the future,” concluded Lupinacci.
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Havin' a Field Day
It turned out to be good timing this year for Oakwood’s annual Field Day. "Oakwood's Field Day this year was three straight days of full sun and enjoyment for all the Kids with such activities such as Relay Races, Obstacle Course, Darth Vader and Tug of war" said Oakwood PE Teachers Mr. Rosa and Mr. Russell. “The Oakwood physical education staff would like to send a special thank you to Ms. Lockhart and Ms. Blaney of our PTA and our PTA president Ms. Solange Rich and VP Ms. Kim Phillips for providing the kids with water bottles and ices. We look forward to another great year next year and wish everyone a great summer.”
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Stimson Girls Lacrosse Show Determination and Commitment
The Stimson Middle School Girls Lacrosse team finished their season on a high note beating Candlewood Middle School 9-8 in battle that came down to the very last possession. Amelia Hatton, Sammy O'Toole and Sydney Kahn led the scoring with 2 goals each while Mae Morelli, Alexa Brunneti, and Emily O'Mara each scored 1 goal.
The scoring was made possible by excellent passing and assists from Kristen Finnerty and Jenny Duclay. The defense was led by Kayleigh McArdle, Anna Garziano, Cassidy Browne and Isabella Rombaldi.
Alyssa Chillemi, Alyssa Morisco and Kate Jenkins all turned in Strong performances. Isabel Aquilino and Jessica Vesque each had 15 saves. The play of the game came when Jessica Vesque made an incredible save with 10 seconds left on the clock and brought the ball out of the crease and controlled the ball while the final seconds ticked off the clock and the final horn sounded.
The Girls Lacrosse team had a very successful season this year. Their hard work, determination and most importantly their commitment to the team was undeniable.“Under the leadership from our 8th grade captains Eleni Glodowski, Kayleigh McArdle, Emma Farrell and Grace D’Souza and 7th graders Kristen Finnerty, Emily O’Mara and Fiona Smith, the entire team contributed our success,” said Coach Rory Sherman. As the season progressed, so did the girls stick work and game play. In each game the girls played better and better lacrosse. The girl’s hard work and determination really paid off. They finished the season 2 and 7 against some really tough teams. The climax of the season came when we beat Candlewood Middle School winning 12-6 the first time and then again 8-7 in a nail biter.“I could not be more proud of this year’s team. It was truly my pleasure coaching them,” said Coach Sherman. “8th graders– good luck at Whitman and 7th graders– I will see you next year.”
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Happy Father's Day
Hi All:
I want to take a moment to wish all of the dads in our South Huntingtonlearning familyavery happy, healthy Father's Day. There is no rolein the world more important than parenting and your efforts have a pronounced impact upon our community.
I hope you have a great weekend, which includes unfettereduse of the television remote control.
Be well,
Dave Bennardo
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New Mural at Silas Wood Highlights 4 C’s
Ms. Hickey and Ms. Cryers art students from Silas Wood worked in collaboration with the Heckscher Museum on a large mural Introducing Silas Wood as Long Island’s 1st STEM Career Academy. “We are thrilled to have partnered with South Huntington School District for this year-long mural project, celebrating and empowering youth in the local community,” said Ms. Kristina Schaaf, Associate Director of Education at the Heckscher Museum.“Our students are building 21st century skills at Silas Wood using communication, critical thinking, creativity and collaboration,” said Ms. Maribeth Hickey, Silas Wood Art teacher. All Silas Wood students created their own leaf on the tree, which represented each child's individual creativity.“This one of a kind partnership has added richly to our art program and enhances the culture of our school district,” said Assistant Superintendent Dr. Joseph Centamore in the latest Superintendent’s Newsletter. “Thank you to Heckscher Museum, Ms. Hickey and Ms. Cryer and the entire Silas Wood family of students for contributing to this amazing work of art.”
The completed mural now welcomes students, teachers, and visitors to Silas Wood Sixth Grade Center, reminding us all of the importance of building 21st-century skills, growing together, and the 4 C’s –Collaboration, Communication, Critical Thinking, and Creativity.
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Concert in the Park at Oakwood
On Thursday, June 18, Oakwood had a wonderful Concert in the Park and SRR Celebration. Oakwood PTA was able to secure the talents of “Brady Rymer and the Little Band That Could” who led the students in a fun and event filled morning that included lots of dancing.
The following award certificates were given:
Office of the Suffolk County Executive, Steven Bellone Public Service Award for academic success and commitment to the community: Luca Cuozzo.
New York State Comptroller, Thomas DiNapoli Achievement Award: Evelyn McGrorry and Luke Pedretti.
The Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman “Triple C Award” for Commitment, Character and Courage: Kimberly Rivas-Carballo and Luke Vaughan.
Wildcat Sports Camp Scholarship: Kiara Bonilla Maldonado and Ethan Jacoutot
Victory Challenge Medals: Jake Casden, Vincent Santamaria, Christopher Portillo Gomez, Josue Gomez-Benitez, and Justin Olivares.
Student Council Representative Award Certificates: Sofia Giacoponello, Ryan Tabibzada, William Diaz, Andie DeVinney, Lillian Dwyer, Ethan Arroyo, Ali Syed, Jazmynn Julien, Gabriel Santiago, Briana Flores Benavides, Evelin Rodriguez Perez, Julian Perez-Benavides, Rehan Naseer, Emely Aguilar, Corinne Belton, Daniel Mejia, Gabriella Anderson, Christopher Kancza, Angel Pareja Mondragon, Ever Chavez Hernandez, Giulana Bausano, Helena Anglade, Lucas Hill Mendizabal, Jaidyn Alvarez, Sabrina Whelan, Dylan Lemke, Isobella Seiller Spatafora, Anna Braglia, Lucien Saint Cyr, Lucy Maniatis, Riley Sherowski, Paige Hiller, Thomas Cusack, Dominick Chiusano, Demi Botta, Emily Cary, Alejandro Dutton, Jason Cortez Gonzales, Genesis Munoz, Ciara Coleman, William Lang, Erin Conlon, Aiden Dearborn, Samantha Castano, Luca Schneider, Patrick McManus, Marissa DeWitt, Silvia Martinez, Ethan Wang, Diego Saravia Rubio, Sydni Russell, Heather Kowalczyk, Arjun Airen, Luka Binsol, Jayla St. Croix, Tessa Binsol, Zachary Gluckstal, Emily Austin and Swraj Patel.
SRR (Safe Respectful and Responsible) Award Certificates: Connor Umstead, Alexis Koffer, Richard Linares Moreira, Olivia Tintera, Cosmo Jannes, Emily Jannes, Lillian Dwyer, Colby Sherowski, Michael Eastwood, Molly Gorman, Emily Sharp, Frankie Pugliese, Odalis Alvarado, Rehan Naseer, Angel Pareja Mondragon, Elmer Espinal Arevalo, Julian Perez Lemus, Evelin Rodriguez Perez, Jazmynn Julien, Ali SyedJoseph Fazio, Josilynn Brown, Paige Hiller, Joshua Evans, Avery D’Andrea, Mason Diamond, Abigail Mejia, Riley Sherowski, Domenica Isoldi, Osman Hernandez, Adrian Burga, Taylor Busch, Helena Anglade, Francesco Monez, Dylan Lemke, Hannah Guerrero Emily Cary, Matthew Colavita, Demetri Parrish, Samantha Kaileh, Brielle Browne, Cristian Ortez, Genesis Munoz, Pratyush Das, Abigail Burkitt, Matthew Gervasio, Yakelin Joya, Michael, Stande, Arjun Airen, Abigail LaRegina, Ruth Acosta Manzanares, Karen Valasquez Malonado, Ali Mohammad, Jason Cortez Gonzales, Anna Isernia, Jack David, Dylan Reader, Shayla Bholan, Brianna Figueroa, William Dowling, Joshir Lyons, and Emily Quintanilla Flores.
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We're Off to Maplewood
Countrywood's 2nd Grade Celebration took place last week and over 200 students celebrated the end of the school year and their time at Countrywood. The big party, sponsored by the Countrywood PTA, included great music by a professional DJ, lots of hot pizza, Italian Ices, and snacks for everyone to enjoy.“Our second grade students along with teachers, staff, and special invited guests enjoyed a memorable event celebrating their time spent at Countrywood,” said Kellie D. Njenga, Assistant Principal at Countrywood. “Everyone had a wonderful time as each class came together to share food, games, and dance the afternoon away with a high energy DJ. A special thank you to the PTA for organizing this fabulous event for all to enjoy as our students get ready to move up to the 3rd grade at Maplewood.”
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Their First Graduation
This graduation won’t be their last, in another 13 years they’ll don their cap and gown and join their classmates for the traditional processional march as they leave Walt Whitman High School. But earlier this week our 4-year-old preschoolers took their leave of the SHIP Preschool Program, a free play-group experience for 3- and 4-year-old residents of the South Huntington School District.
Those who are familiar with our SHIP preschool program know that there wasn't a dry eye in the house during this year's stellar moving-up exercise. Cameras flashed and tears of joy rolled freely as our community's youngest students stood proudly in front of their families to receive their preschool diplomas. There is something truly refreshing about the look of limitless opportunity emblazoned on the faces of four-year-old superstars. Our SHIP program's success serves as a fitting tribute to the supportive parents and dynamic staff that work with our talented preschool children.
Thank you for a job incredibly well done to Coordinator of Speech-Language Services Marian Raspantini, Nurse Coordinator Jane Samuels, Psychologist Dr. Pamela Mitchell, Social Worker Ventura Trent, Special Education Teachers Debra Jarmon and Jessica Russotto, Paraprofessionals Mary Beth Silveri and Amy Miles, Speech Pathologists Kathy Fitzpatrick and Jennifer O’Daugherty, Physical Therapist Barbara Brush, Occupational Therapist Beth Cohen and SHIP/CPSE Secretary Denise DeLise.
Enjoy the slide show of the afternoon graduation group:
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Meet Walt Whitman's 2015 Valedictorian and Salutatorian
Jonathan Sparling - Walt Whitman Valedictorian
Jon is an active guy. As one of the captains of the cross-country and winter and spring track teams he finds balance as first chair, playing the oboe in the NYSSMA Gold Award Winning Wind Ensemble. When it comes to athletics, Jon’s in it for the long haul, running in the 1000m, 1 and 2 mile and the 4x8 events, and of course cross-country. “Between track and wind ensemble you get a lot of motivation to excel, they push you forward, you want to be the best you can in your field,” said Whitman’s top ranked student. “I like activities where you can constantly improve on yourself and still be a part of a bigger picture and contribute,” said Jon, acknowledging both track coach and wind ensemble teacher played a big role in helping him achieve success.
Jon is a member of the National Honor Society as well as an AP Scholar, and a member of the National English Honor Society. He keeps busy off campus as well mentoring as a camp counselor, and volunteering at the Thomas School of Horsemanship and Park Avenue Physical Therapy. Jon will be attending SUNY Geneseo next fall where he plans on majoring in physics.“I’ve really had a fun time here getting to know everyone,” said Jon. “There is such a variety of people, the diversity makes it interesting because everyone adds to the overall experience in a good way.”
Isabel Sakarin- Walt Whitman Salutatorian
Earlier this spring Isabel Sakarin had a lot of choices to make when it came to colleges. Waiting to hear from no less than ten, we are happy to announce the Isabel will be attending Vassar College next fall. If you think that her list of co-curricular activities at Whitman gives a hint of what Isabel will be studying next year, you’d be wrong.
Isabel was a member of the cross-country team and this past fall was named the 2014 Fall Sports Scholar Athlete, along with Jon Sparling, another cross-country runner. It’s a given that she is on every ‘Minds in Motion’ list in whatever sport she participates. In the winter Isabel was a top contributor to the girls fencing team and this past season was nominated to the All-County Women’s Sabre 1st Team. She is a member of Mathletes, as well as the Art Honor Society; she speaks French, scoring in the top percentile nationally in the Le Grand Concours; and each year has been a contributing member of Body Electric, sharing her poetry to the standing room only crowd. She continues her love for ‘spoken word poetry’ beyond the Whitman campus.
So when she told us that next fall she would be studying Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, we were not surprised. This high achieving and multi-talented senior will no doubt excel in whatever she sets her mind to.
Congratulations to both Jonathan and Isabel!
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Project Excel End-of-Year Reception
Our Project Excel year-end ceremony, which celebrated the collective accomplishments of our South Huntington family, was held on June 8th. Our program coordinator, Dave Perkins, did a remarkable job bringing the community together for this special night. Thank you to our lead program mentors from each of the four buildings, Patty Urgiles, Richard Garcia, Shaka Williams, Jennifer DeNoble, and Ian Denson for providing such dynamic support to our students. Thank you as well to Monaco's Pizza, Affinity Health, Inc., and Pollo Campero for their generous support of our Project Excel program. It is inspiring to see what can be accomplished when a community works together in the best interest of their children.
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A Graduation Update
Hi All:
I just wanted to provide an update on tomorrow’s graduation ceremony. At this point it looks as though forecasters are predicting a break in the weather during the morning hours that will allow us to have an outdoor ceremony. Our custodial and grounds teams have numerous blowers and towels ready to dry the bleachers and seats and give us the best opportunity for a rain-free ceremony. Of course, forecasts can always change, and we have until 5:30 a.m. to make a final call about bringing the operation inside. However, right now we are moving ahead with outdoor ceremony preparation. I will be in touch between 5:30 and 6:00 a.m. only if conditions and forecasts change. If you don’t hear from me again, our outdoor ceremony plans remain in place.
Congratulations to our graduates and their families. You have earned a very special day. Thank you as well to our dedicated teachers and staff who have contributed to this wonderful moment.
Have a great day and please be well.
Dave Bennardo
PS - Additionally, Dr. Bloom and his team are experimenting with a “UStream Link” that will provide a live feed of the ceremony. The procedure is new to us and this is a first try but it could be the start of something very exciting going forward. The link to the stream (which at this point will still include a few advertisements) is http://www.ustream.tv/channel/shufsd-live.
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Kalif Jones– One of the Nation’s Top Tenors
Walt Whitman senior Kalif Jones has been selected by the National YoungArts Foundation as one of the nation’s outstanding young artists. Kalif was selected from over 11,000 applicants representing a wide range of disciplines in the visual, literary, design, and performing arts.
The National YoungArts Foundation identifies and supports the next generation of artists; assists them at critical junctures in their educational and professional development; and raises appreciation for the arts in American society.
As you might expect, Kalif was chosen for this honor because of his incredible talent as a singer. While he enjoys playing the Cello in Whitman’s Symphonic Orchestra, Kalif’s future was set 13 years ago when he began singing and repeating in perfect pitch, anything he heard on his mom and dad’s radio or TV. He takes it all in stride though- “My voice does not define me,” said Kalif. “I’m a normal 17 year-old high school senior with typical thoughts like most kids my age.” Normal yes, but the National YoungArts Foundation judges have named Kalif one of the top five Classical Tenors in the Nation.
As part of the YoungArts New York recognition, in early May, Kalif was invited to participate in a series of workshops and to perform with some of the worlds greatest classical music personalities. This was not Kalif’s first time on the really big stage. When he was seven years old he was chosen to perform in the Metropolitan Opera with one of his all-time favorite tenors Placido Domingo. “This feels like the perfect cap from early childhood to graduating high school,” said Kalif who has decided to attend Westminster Choir College in the fall.
The path Kalif has chosen to take after graduation is not an easy one, but one that hopefully best prepares him for a bright future. There is the performing part that he has been so incredible at, and then there is the business part of the music industry, one that interests Kalif as well. “In five to seven years I see myself performing around the world as a tenor,” said Kalif, who admits to an adventurous side that craves travel more than anything. “At the same time I would like to be part of a large music corporation, helping set up programs.”
Kalif has thrived here in South Huntington’s schools. From Countrywood right on up through Walt Whitman his genuine personality has opened friendships that continue to grow and help define an exceptional young man. “I’m a regular person who genuinely cares about the rest of the world,” said Kalif. “I just love life…more than anything.”
Congratulations Kalif Jones, you make the South Huntington community proud!
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BOE President Jim Kaden's Graduation Speech – June 27, 2015
Good Morning. On behalf of the Board of Education it is my pleasure to congratulate you, the class of 2015 on the completion of your high school education. Graduation represents both a milestone in your life and for many a point where new paths are chosen.
It is my fervent hope that we at South Huntington Schools have accomplished our goal to lead you to attain the foundations you will need to achieve success in your lives. Along with your academic lessons you have had many opportunities to learn about becoming responsible citizens capable of fully participating in society.
At this point you are now called upon to assume your responsibility to provide your input to the great American experiment. To this day, the central concepts of our national charter that was forged in Phildelphia in 1787, remain consistent topics of the ongoing national debate: freedom of speech and religion, the right to bear arms, the right to privacy and the list goes on. It will fall on you and others of your generation to make the right decisions and that will require your full participation. Even while we all need to recognize the fundamental success and optimism of this great nation, we cannot fail to lend our minds to understanding our failings. Judging by the large number of horrific events that continue in this country and in the world, it seems apparent that there still remains a wide chasm between the ideals and promise of the American Dream and the American reality.
It is left to the American people to understand and address the challenge. One might think that with all the sources of information now available we would find it easier and easier to find solutions to problems, but very often the exact opposite is happening. Americans must struggle to gather information from multiple and often polarized perspectives just to gain an understanding of the basic facts of any given situation. Perhaps the biggest problem we face today is that issues needing the most attention often cannot even be discussed openly without fear of being trivialized or ostracized with one stereotype or another in an attempt to isolate others who don’t agree with us. It is in this isolation that the seeds of hatred and violence are sown. Whether it is the middle school child bullied to the point of genuine despair or the person who commits an act of terrorism for revenge, the result is the same; a tragic event that did not need to be. In light of the situation it is easy to see the American Dream as hypocritical and give up on it. That is exactly the wrong course of action.
Just as with us as individuals, there are often disconnects between where we are and where we want our country to be. As educated people it is our responsibility to take the time to understand the issues of the day and seek to understand why others feel differently than we do.
We must study carefully the words people use when they make statements. Are they merely looking for opportunities to place blame on a rival? Do they ridicule or marginalize other thoughts or seek to gain some advantage? Do they offer workable solutions or merely criticism and accusations that further polarize the debate?
As we reach out to others and try to persuade them to understand our own point of view, our goal must be to try to bring them in rather than drive them away. Please make it a goal to become a listener as well if this is not already your habit. You may find at times it is you who needs to change.
It is a sign of maturity to see compromise and debate not as dirty words as the media often encourages us to believe they are, but rather as tools to move us from where we are to where we want to be. You will find this same principle applies to your personal life as well. While it will often be more difficult to work toward middle ground than to posture, only one of the approaches consistently produces solutions to problems.
I have faith that one day America will realize the ideals and values to which we claim to aspire and I have faith in your ability to help make that a reality. To that end I urge each of you as newly minted adults to participate in your own lives, your families, your community, and yes, your government. I know that many of you already understand the need for, and the rewards of, community service and have been most generous with your money, talent, and time. To those that have kept it up, to those that haven’t I ask that you please remember those that gave of themselves so that you could prosper. When you are asked to do the same for the next generation, I hope you do so gladly.
When the ceremony and celebrations are over, please take some time to reflect on your own accomplishments. You have much to be proud of and this community joins your families to celebrate your success. Best wishes for whatever comes next. Be careful and safe this summer. Good luck and Godspeed.
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