Congratulations to the girl’s basketball team on its 72-66 victory over Riverhead to improve its league record to 3 and 0. Danielle Kleet led the Wildcats with 21 points while Meghan Soulias added 16 and Desiree Kleberg added 12. Eleni Glodowski battled all night long recording 17 rebounds while Jenna Stockfeder scored 8 points and Madonna Getchell drew 3 offensive charges. Leatrice Brown hit a big 3 pointer and Morgan Wagner played outstanding defense.
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Varsity Girls Basketball Start Strong
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Middle School Musical Delighted Audiences
Stimson Middle School and Silas Wood Sixth Grade Center proudly kicked-off their Middle School Theater production of “Bye Bye Birdie” Friday evening, March 16th @7:30 PM in Stimson’s Forum Stage. Performances for this fun-filled presentation were as follows:
Friday, March 17th @7:30 PM
Saturday, March 18th @3 PM & 7:30 PM
Sunday, March 19th @2 PM
Our deepest thanks to Stimson Middle School Principal, Mr. Edwin Smith, and Silas Wood 6th Grade Center Principal, Mr. Stephen Toto, for their constant support. Also, sincere gratitude and appreciation must be given to our Director, Mr. Adam Slawitsky and Assistant Director, Chelsea Winkoff for the months of work, mentoring and love they have put forth while working with all our young actors!
Come and enjoy an evening of musical fun and entertainment! It is guaranteed to warm hearts on the coldest of nights!
Photo GalleryMaroon Cast
Photo GalleryWhite Cast
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Finding Their Pot of Gold
The leprechauns in Ms. Schramm's first grade class at Oakwood Primary Center had a magical day on March 17. They wrote about what they would do with their pots of gold as well as any wishes they would want to come true. The children used their imaginations and creativity. For them, each found their gold at the end of the rainbow. It was a fun filled day in room 104!
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Pot of Gold Found at Countrywood
Students from the Peer Ambassador Program at Countrywood participated in a fun St. Patrick’s Day scavenger hunt. The students worked in teams to find the leprechaun and his hidden pot of gold. This program was developed to enhance appropriate social skills and foster friendships by using peer models. The program also uses structured game play and social opportunities to develop independent reciprocal communication. The students who participated benefited from the opportunity to learn from a peer.
Way to Go Countrywood Ambassadors!
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Maplewood Spring Gala
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Beating the Odds, Building Opportunities
At a recent Board of Education meeting, board members and administrators acknowledged and honored faculty and administrators from both Silas Wood Sixth Grade Center and Stimson Middle School. According to Better Outcomes LLC, these two South Huntington schools have been identified as in the top 16% of NY eligible schools who have beaten the odds and built opportunities for economically disadvantaged students. “This award is a point of particular pride in the District as it exemplifies our commitment to educate each and every child in our charge,” said South Huntington’s Superintendent Dr. David Bennardo. “We are well aware that young people in our contemporary society come from a variety of different backgrounds and socioeconomic means, and we embrace the opportunity to provide each and every child the tools for success.”
Boosting the achievement of traditionally underperforming demographic groups takes carefully executed strategies, along with hard work and commitment, to boost the achievement of these economically disadvantaged students. “An award of this nature speaks volumes about the ‘can do attitude’ of our staff and reflects beautifully on the sacred mission of the district,” added Superintendent Bennardo.
Congratulations Silas Wood Sixth Grade Center and Stimson Middle School.
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Making Life-Long Readers @ Birchwood
We were so thrilled to have KPMG's Family for Literacy (KFFL) readers at Birchwood Intermediate School on Monday, March 20th. In 2008, in collaboration with the award-winning nonprofit social enterprise First Book, KPMG, a world-wide accounting firm with offices in Melville, established KPMG's Family for Literacy to combat childhood illiteracy.
Approximately 20 KPMG employees (accountants and administrative staff) visited Birchwood’s third-grade classes and after first introducing themselves to the children, they discussed what KPMG is and does, and then read the book, Emmanuel’s Dream by Laurie Ann Thompson to the children. Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah's inspiring true story--which was turned into a film, Emmanuel's Gift, narrated by Oprah Winfrey--is nothing short of remarkable.
All of the third-graders were excited to receive a copy of a book and a bookmark for their very own. We were so fortunate to be part of this wonderful corporation and look forward to continuing our partnership with KPMG and First Book. “Each of our fourth and fifth grade classes received some books for their classroom libraries,” said Principal Ciccarelli. “We thank KPMG for supporting Birchwood's goal of building lifelong learners and readers.”
Photo Gallery
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Maplewood PTA Reflections Honored
Maplewood students were honored on Thursday, March 16th for their participation and wonderful entries in this year's PTA Reflections Arts Program.
PTA Reflections is a nationally acclaimed student recognition program to encourage artistic creativity in the classroom and at home. South Huntington students of all grades and abilities participated and explored the arts based on this year’s theme: What Is Your Story?
Students chose one or more entry from the following arts categories: Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music Composition, Photography, and Visual Arts. “The students went 'above and beyond' with their efforts and displayed a great interest in their topic of choice,” said Dr. Vito D’Elia, Maplewood’s Principal. “We congratulate all of our students who participated.”
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Spotlight on our Countrywood Teacher of the Year
From Interim Personnel Administrator Frank Fallon:
Robert Fulghum, in his book, All I Really Need to Know I learned in Kindergarten, stated:“…I believe that imagination is stronger than knowledge. That myth is more potent than history. That dreams are more powerful than facts. That hope always triumphs over experience. That laughter is the only antidote for grief…”
We all know that kindergarten teachers are special people who instill these virtues in young minds and, with the collaboration of families, support the growth and development of young children.
Countrywood Primary School’s nominee for Teacher of the Year is kindergarten teacher, Sue Lamorte, who exemplifies all of the best qualities of a kindergarten teacher. Sue and her entire family are graduates of Walt Whitman High School, and she has continued to be an important part in South Huntington. Although she has taught in several assignments, she has been a kindergarten teacher at Countrywood since 2007. Her tireless work ethic, love of her students and collaboration with their families set her apart as someone very special.
One parent stated, “… (When) volunteering in her classroom…I always came away impressed by the climate of her classroom. She was always calm and patient with the children, never raising her voice. She always had a smile on her face and an energy that was contagious…”
Sue serves as a building mentor and works to train new teachers on her grade level. She can be counted on as one who volunteers to support initiatives within the school district with the hope of improving teaching and keeping South Huntington as an exceptional place for student learning.
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A True Story of Inner Strength and the Will to Survive
It takes someone very special to be able to keep close to five hundred Stimson eighth-graders quiet and attentive for over an hour?
On Friday morning, March 17th that someone special was Marion Blumenthal Lazan. Ms. Lazan is the author of Four Perfect Pebbles: A Holocaust Story. It is the story of and the incredibly moving first-hand account of her family’s Nazi concentration camp imprisonment and liberation.
Following Hitler’s rise to power, the Blumenthal family – father, mother, Marion, and her brother Albert – were trapped in Nazi Germany. They eventually managed to get to Holland, which soon thereafter was occupied by the Nazis. For the next six and a half years, the Blumenthals were forced to live in refugee, transit, and prison camps, including Westerbork in Holland and the notorious Bergen-Belsen in Germany. Although they all survived the camps, Walter Blumenthal, the father, succumbed to typhus just after liberation.
Ms. Lazan, spoke of sensitivity and patience as she captivated Stimson’s eighth-grade audience. She stressed the importance of positive thinking to overcome adversity, and asked our students to be tolerant of others and not stereotype individuals. “The most important message for audiences of all ages to live by is to have respect, tolerance, and love towards one-another regardless of religious belief, color of our skin, or national origin” said Ms. Lazan. “That is the basis of peace.”
As part of Stimson’s Character Education Program this was a wonderful opportunity for our students to hear this first hand account from a living Holocaust survivor. Thank you PTA Cultural Arts Program for making this possible.
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Second Annual SAT/ACT Scholars Club Awards Ceremony
Walt Whitman Principal John Murphy continued his tradition of honoring our students who qualify for SAT/ACT Scholars Club Award designation. Based on SAT and ACT test scores, students and their families were honored at a breakfast at Walt Whitman's library. The morning began in the PAC with Principal Murphy introducing honored guests including Board of Education member Ms. Laura Carey. Superintendent Dr. David Bennardo commended the students and introduced Walt Whitman Assistant Principal Jon Varlamos who called each student up to receive their certificate. Chairperson of Student Services Ms. Leah Lugovina closed the PAC ceremony inviting families to join their students in the library for breakfast."This personal triumph is a testament to your dedication, perseverance, and commitment in achieving academic excellence. Not only do you personify the best Walt Whitman has to offer, you represent a true cross section of America,” said Principal Murphy in his address. “Through your experiences, you have learned that knowledge and education are the most important attributes you can possess. Your hard work and self-sacrifice have led you to open new doors that will permanently remain open.”
Principal Murphy thanked parents, families, teachers, and the people who inspired our students. “All of this could not have been possible without the help and support of your family and teachers,” added Mr. Murphy. “The students before us today would not be here without you, and the roles you have played in your children's lives have made these individuals the wonderful human beings they are today. They will succeed in life because of your support and guidance.”
Congratulations to the 2017 Walt Whitman Scholar Club inductees: Siam Ahmed, Kiran Arjune, Alivia Barton, Thomas Blackall, Christina Bogdani, Timothy Brady, Emanuel Campo, Amy Chan, Gabriella Cipriano, Alexander Clopper, Emma Coleman, Christian Corbett, Nicole DeMartino, Rebecca DeWitt, Ilana Desmond, Joshua Devaraj, Dylan Diamond, Kathleen Dugan, Taylor Epstein, Emily Ferrante, Michael Giarrizzo, Serena Halajian, Matthew Havekotte, Mark Hustedt, Matthew Jacobsen, Kirina Desislava, Katherine Lo Nigro, Esteban Lopez, Karthikeyan Mayilvahanan, Kelsey McDonald, Casey McKenna, Mark Theodore Meneses, Nicholas Miata, Michael Morck, Benjamin Nace, Thomas Nicolino, Jessica Persaud, Epiphany Ramirez, Omar Ramos, James Reilly, Jordan Roiland, Samantha Ruotolo, Jared Saget, Melissa Shaiman, Shaina Silverman, Kayla Soulias, David Sparling, Sarah Tabibzada, Justin Ullman, and Shelbi Wuss.
Photo Gallery
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Spotlight on our Silas Wood Teacher of the Year
From Interim Personnel Administrator Frank Fallon
Robin Naggar is Silas Wood’s candidate for Teacher of the Year. After his sixteen years of teaching in the district, Mr. Naggar is described as a leader who inspires, motivates, excites and understands his students. He looks at the “whole child” with a sense of understanding, holds them to high expectations, and always encourages them to do their best.
Mr. Naggar serves as a role model in the classroom and a coach on the athletic fields. He cheers his students on when they are down, motivates them with inspiring words, and gets his students to believe in themselves.
As a teacher, he provides skills for students to be lifelong learners. Robin Naggar is a vital part of the Silas Wood team.
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Whitman's Ramos Heads to State Science Competition
Walt Whitman senior Omar Ramos and his science partner from Commack High School Ryan VonHoff won two awards at the LI Science and Engineering Fair (LISEF) round 2 on March 23rd. LISEF promotes three science research fairs each year that are extremely successful and professional events. Our duo won honorable mention and the USMA Award for best use of International System of Units. They both did a great job and are excited to go to New York State Science & Engineering Fair on April 3rd.
Congratulations Team Ramos!
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Read Across America @ Countrywood
On March 2, in conjunction with Read Across America and Dr. Seuss’ birthday, Countrywood Primary Center invited distinguished guests to participate in their 4th annual Community Read-In. This event was a special day to celebrate and share their love of reading with the children.
South Huntington administrators and community members all joined Countrywood staff for this school-wide reading event. Countrywood PTA hosted a breakfast for the guests in the library. Student escorts arrived promptly at the library and accompany their guest reader back to their classroom. Community Read-In was Countrywood’s opportunity to make a difference and show their students that reading is FUNdamental to their success.
Thank you to our quest readers: Claire Ceglian, Eddie Smith, Lorraine Smalkowski, Lisa Jonza, Catherine Korn, Frank Fallon, Susan Berland, Lynn Cacioppo, Chuck Brady, Dave Bennardo, Dolores Plonski, Dominique Harrington, Joe Centamore, Laura Carey, Ann Oliveri, Jessica Barbato, Aleta Anzalone, Anne Lecci, Mark Cuthbertson, Elisa Guerriere, Vito D’Elia, Brian Christen, Melanie O’Reilly, Chris Clines, Officer Drew, and Jared Bloom.
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Students of the Month
We wish to congratulate our February Students of the Month from Walt Whitman High School. These talented individuals have distinguished themselves in academic classes, earning the praise of the teachers and administrators alike. Our Students of the Month have successfully demonstrated the ability to juggle demands of increased academic standards, while simultaneously participating in numerous co-curricular endeavors. We congratulate all of our winners, as well as the teachers and dedicated parents who have contributed to their success.
Our February Students of the Month:
ART: Olivia Cunsolo, India Bonilavri, Ismaeel Ahmad, Tafazzul Hussain
SCIENCE: Stephen Hong, Danielle D’Amico, Timothy Mahadeo, Emanuel Campo
BUSINESS/HOME & CAREERS: Dayana Reyes, Chance Laughton, Thomas Costas, Roy Harel
PHYSICAL EDUCATION: Ifedayo Balogun, Mabel Bassi, Tajear Farquharson, Mishael Rodriguez
ENGLISH: Shawna Bonilavri, Angela Frazzitta, Brenda Mendez, Jonathan Brigati
SOCIAL STUDIES: Thania Loza Morales, Leslie Hidalgo, Cyndy Bonilla, Shelbi Wuss
MATHEMATICS: Amanda Tobin, Julio Quintanilla Lazo, Sophie Markell, Brenda Uceda Alfaro
WORLD LANGUAGES: Keara Benson, Franklin Villatoro, Hannah Braun, Esteban Lopez
MUSIC/DANCE: Jaelynn Cruz, Matthew Bromschwig, Michael Deitch, Abigail Quintanilla.
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BOE Public Hearing Notice
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Spotlight on our Walt Whitman Teacher of the Year
From Interim Personnel Administrator Frank Fallon
When Principal Murphy from Walt Whitman High School asked students about the school’s nominee for Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Kimberly Latko, the responses he received were evidence as to why this teacher is so revered.“Mrs. Latko was the best teacher I ever had…”“She always took time to explain…”“She spent time helping you, even if you weren’t her student…”“I am a better student because of what she did for me…”
Mrs. Lakto, herself, is a graduate of Walt Whitman High School, and then attended the prestigious teacher training program at the State University of New York at Geneseo, receiving a Bachelor’s Degree in English. She then attended Hofstra University to attain a Master’s Degree in Education.
It was always her goal to return to South Huntington and give back to the community in which she grew up. She became a resident to give her children the same experience that she was given years earlier. The proud mother of Jameson, age 19, and Maelyn and Katie, both 16, Mrs. Latko has enjoyed watching her children grow in the school district.
It is a pleasure to honor her for her twenty-four years of dedicated service.
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Plenty of Talent at Countrywood
If you have ever wondered where our wonderfully talented students may get their spark from? You didn’t have to look much further than Whitman’s Performing Arts Center this past Friday night. Countywood’s Got Talent featured 35 second-graders who all performed with incredible talent and poise on the big stage. Thank you Countywood music teacher Adam Slawitsky for all your work inspiring and cultivating our students.
Congratulations to the following students who are listed with the name of their performance: Cheerleader-Christine; Can’t Stop The Feeling-Giuliana, Madeleine & Giselle; Indian Drum/By The Rivers Edge-Emily; I Found A Diamond-Collin; Dance Mashup-Lyla; My House-Andrew & Chris; Glorious-Gwen; Whip/Nae Nae-Sherlendy, Anne Sophie & Giovanna & Dylan; Roar-Katy; What Does The Fox Say-Jack & Brian; Let It Go-Nancy; Shake It Off-Kaylee; Radio Active-Derek & Nate; That’s My Girl-Keeliana; Magic Show-Emma & Timothy; Sit Still Look pretty-Abi; How Far I’ll Go-Sydney & Caroline; LOVE-Michael; Can’t Stop The Feeling-Kate, McKenzie, Emma, Ella, Natalie, Lexi, Lyla; Supercalifragalisticexpialidocious-Zoey.
Photo Gallery
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Computer Programming Adventures @ Oakwoood
Second grade students in Mrs. Farkas’ class at Oakwood teamed up with Speech Teacher Mrs. O’Dougherty to explore the Solar System with Cubetto, a wooden robot that teaches children the basics of computer programming through adventure and hands on play. Students programmed Cubetto using Coding Blocks- a coding language you can touch and manipulate. Each block is an action. Students combined blocks to create programs. Oakwood’s second graders helped Cubetto travel to the moon and Mars, through asteroids, to Neptune and eventually back home. Students worked in small groups to complete missions and answer critical thinking questions about space exploration and the Solar System. Students had to collaborate and problem-solve to determine Cubetto’s best path through space using a limited number of blocks. As a bonus mission, students were given the task of creating a jet pack for Cubetto to wear on his next space adventure!
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Two at Silas Wood Place in County Math Tournament
Silas Wood Principal Steve Toto is proud to share that last week, select students took part in the Suffolk County Mathematics Teacher Association Contest. Silas students competed against many other sixth graders in Suffolk County. Congratulations to Anthony Maida, and his math teacher, Ms. Plattner, and Marcus Zagorski, and his math teacher, Mrs. Bernard, for coming in the top 6 across Suffolk County. We are all very proud of their hard work and commend all of the students who participated!
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