The 30th Walt Whitman High School Class of 1986 reunion date is Saturday September 17th, 2016, 6pm-11pm. The reunion will be held at The Melville Marriott and we have arranged special group rates for alumni traveling in from out of town.
For additional information and tickets please contact:
Ron Seifried at: rseifire@optonline.net
Trina Doris-Lydon: Lydon5@outlook.com
Please go to this link for ticket sales and event details
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/walt-whitman-high-school-ny-class-of-1986-30th-reunion-tickets-22361482797?aff=eac2
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Whitman's 30th Reunion Set
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Softball Strikes Out Bay Shore
Congratulations to the varsity softball team who beat Bay Shore on Saturday 5-1, to continue their playoff run. Taylor Epstein, who took a no hitter into the 7th inning, allowed one run on two hits while striking out 13. She also started a two out rally in the bottom of the first inning, and was driven in by Danielle Barbarito. Noelle Bryggman was 2-3 with 2 runs scored, and Hailey Khatchatourian was 2-3 with and RBI. Ariel Khatchatourian had a great game in the field executing play after play. Come see the girls on Tuesday at North Babylon at 4PM. We need your support! Great job ladies!
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Community Bonding @ Miles for Michael 5K
The place to be this past Saturday morning was Walt Whitman High School and the neighboring community along the 3rd Annual ‘Miles for Michael’ 5K Run-Walk. Mother Nature did not disappoint as she provided close to 600 registered runners and walkers with a perfect morning to be outside.
All proceeds from this annual event benefit the arts, music, and dance programs for South Huntington students. Officiated by Start to Finish Road Race Timers and Consultants, this sanctioned 5K run drew participants from the entire metro-new York area, and even as far away as Chicago and Virginia. New York road race expert commentator Mr. Terry Bisogno took to the microphone and gave runners and the South Huntington community a commentary that introduced each and every participant as they crossed the finish line. Sheila Buhse, who organized and directed this incredible event, took to the podium at the conclusion where the top three runners in over 30 categories were presented medals.
The Whitman dancers performed and at the Kids Fun Run, parents cheered on their littlest runners as they circled the Whitman track and then made a grand exit through the official finish line. There were tents with baskets for raffle and nourishment for all of the participants and their fans.“Thank you all for helping make this past weekend’s celebration a huge success,” said Ms. Buhse. “We continue to surpass the goals that we set out each year and that feat is in big part because of your involvement. This year the sun was not shining overhead but the rain held off to give us a cool morning to enjoy the challenging but fun route. Thank you all for being committed to our school community and all it has to offer.
There are many people responsible for the days success.
Our run’s committee members outdid themselves again in the days/weeks leading up to race day: Annie Michaelian, Maria Colon, Vasken Kazandjian, Sue Radin, Helene Falcone, Rory Sherman, Angela Meringolo, Lisa Brieff and Bridget Berbrick.
Our “fabulous four” Margaret Bayley, Joanne Padilla, Christine Rapp, and Kelly Twist continue to amaze us all.
A special thank you to John Burke and Kathy Hopkins who along with many other jobs prepared the route for the run. Creating and maintaining the integrity and safety for both the kid’s fun run and the streets for the 5K was a daunting job. Our day could not have happened without this amazing duo.
Morning Set Up and Break Down led by Kevin Kennedy and Carlo Giordano and their teams: Lou Savarese, Bill Rathje, Pam Lamonica, Mike Lusardi, Peter Schmid and William Ivy. Thank you all!
Pasta DinnerPhoto Gallery
Kids Fun RunPhoto Gallery
5K Runners Group APhoto Gallery
5K Runners Group BPhoto Gallery
5K Something for EveryonePhoto Gallery
5K Jaynes Hill by Camila KorobowPhoto Gallery
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Walt Would be Proud
Stimson students spent a collaborative day at the Walt Whitman Birthplace recently. Teachers Joann Hili-Carbone, Kerry Chapman, Jessica Voorhees, Brian Thomas and Vasken Kazandjian led students in research and creative writing exercises that immersed our young learners in the creative world of one of our country’s best known poets.
After a tour of the historic house, build by Walt Whitman Senior, students heard a poetry lecture on creative writing and Whitman poetic features by Dr. William Walters. The students gathered in small groups and were assigned a theme often found in Whitman’s Poetry: Democracy, Cycle of life and Spirituality to name a few. Students then researched the historical time period of when their chosen theme was prevalent in Whitman’s writing and created a Whitman-like poem as well as an overview of what was happening historically at the time.
After lunch on the beautiful grounds, Whitman Birthplace Director Ms. Cynthia Shor introduced our students to the podium as they presented their newly created literary works to the audience.
The Walt Whitman birthplace is truly a national treasure right in our own backyard. We look forward to many more collaborations with our good neighbor.
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Annual End-of-Year Trip for 6th Graders
Roller coasters, and the log flume, and bumper cars, OH MY! It's a perfect day for Silas Wood sixth-graders end-of-year trip to Adventureland. The students and staff have exclusive rights to the park on this warm and beautiful day. The sounds of laughter and excitement could be heard as the sea of smiling students and teachers filled the park.
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Fireman’s Scholarships go to Whitman Students
The Fireman's Association of the State of New York represents both career and volunteer firefighters in New York State. The organization runs scholarship programs to provide junior firefighters with the financial assistance to continue their educational careers in service. Congratulations to Julianna Pasquarello and Rober Eng.
Julianna has served as the past captain of the Melville Fire Department Explorers Troop and Robert has served as a member of the Huntington Manor Fire Department Explorers Troop. As Explorers, both Julianna and Robert have been trained in both the medicinal and firematic skills that firefighters develop to help others in their community. Robert will be attending Long Island University - Post and Julianna will be attending Tulane University to continue their educational and humanitarian career.
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A Win-Win for Everyone
Driving up Whitman’s main entrance on Thursday afternoon, the aroma of Barbeque and a trail of smoke led you to the Ambassador Program end of the year picnic.
The primary goal of the Ambassador program is for students to mentor students with significant disabilities, helping them to develop friendships and social skills, while contributing to the school community. “The student ambassadors develop an understanding, empathy and acceptance of their peers with disabilities,” said Ms. Corrine J. McLaughlin, a Special Education-Life Skills Teacher at Walt Whitman High School. “An appropriate peer model should be a passionate and caring individual who is interested in learning new skills necessary to help students with disabilities break down the barriers that hold them back from being more social.”
Students were having a wonderful picnic, playing sports games on the turf field, making tie-dyes shirts and other activities that were enjoyed under the umbrella of shade trees along Whitman’s 100 Wing. The friendships that were made among the Ambassadors and their peers were amazing, adding to an already special year.
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Softball Gets Close
It was a tough loss on Wednesday May 25th by our Wildcat varsity softball team 2-0 to North Babylon ending their playoff run. Taylor Epstein pitched her heart out, giving up 1 earned run, and struck out 10. Solid defense kept the Wildcats in the game, but unfortunately came up short. Overall this was an outstanding season for our girls. Coaches Colapinto and Miranda are extremely proud of the way the team played and carried themselves all season. Already looking forward to next year!
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We all Smile in the Same Language
"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language that goes to his heart."
-Nelson Mandela
Walt Whitman High School held their World Language Honor Society induction ceremony this past Thursday evening. After the new inductees were introduced into their respective honor society, special awards and scholarships were given out by World Language teacher Ms. Aileen D'Addario.
Congratulations to the following students who were inducted into their respective honor societies:
French Honor Society Inductees: Mabel Bassi, Cyndy Bonilla, Cosette Brazeau, Maxwell Fisher, Katherine Gotard, Marianna Kliampas, Abdjine Lemaitre, Deanna Tabibzada, and Matthew Tricomi.
Italian Honor Society Inductees: Iedayo Balogun, Marissa Barletta, Kristen Barone, Ben Barton, Erica Bell, Hannah Braun, Kristy Campana, Kayla Campana, Andrew Ferrari, Sarah Fink, Felicia Flammia, Christie Franz, Hailey Hamilton, Shaan Khan, Kevin McKenna, Hasna Naseer, Kayla O'Mara, Robert Posillico, Epi Ramirez, Anna Scortichini, Zachary Slansky, Danielle Wechsler, Grace Williams, Stephanie Young, and Sarah Zepeda.
Spanish Honor Society Inductees: Jessica Adomaites, Yusra Ashraf, Christopher Bias, Unique Butts, Jaycee Cardoso, Eileen Carmichael, Alyssa Chillemi, Sarah Choudhary, Alyssa Christiansen, Tiffany Chuen, Jack Cox, Angelina D 'Amico, Danielle D 'Amico, Grace D 'Souza, Elena Davis, Peter Daquara, Onkar Dogra, Jon Eichner, Dominick Esposito, Tajear Faquaharssen, Ashar Farooq, Casey Gilmartin, Mikayla Godson, Emma Halliday, Andrew Harrigan, Sarah Heath, Kathleen Hoppe, Jaylene Hubbard, Huma Ilyas, Ludjina Jean Pierre, Joshua Joseph, Jackson Lin, Jessica Mason, Kentaro Matsushima, Sarena McManus, Griffin McNally, Leonardo Montoya Garcia, Alyssa Morisco, Fazila Naeemi, Megan Neuman, Jefferson Orellana, Shailee Patel, Skylar Pekarek, Leila Perry, Ella Podhurst, Shannon Polk, Jack Poplawsk,i Sean Rankel, Dylan Rehman, Genesis Rivas, Grace Roiland, Gabrielle Safian, Elycia Salcedo, Willy Sanchez, Bridget Saslaw, Raj Shah, Liliana Soares, Tania Sood, Jaden Speter, Kelly Strigaro, Faiza Tariq, Joseph Thyer, Elliot Trester, Wilmer Valle, William Valle, Samantha Vincent, Amanda Vollmer, Morgan Wagner, and Marissa Whelan.
World Language Department: Chairperson & Assistant Principal- Ms. Grady Ms. Bunnell, Ms, Cardillo, Dr. Eikenaar-Klang, Ms. Irizarry, Ms. Stefanelli-Fasano, Mr. Callahan, Ms. D'Addario, Ms. Hindes, Mr. Rodriguez, Ms. Ramirez and Ms. Zaiff.
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Whitman Senior Awarded
As president of the Whitman World Language Honor Society (WLHS) Ellysandra Monegro was thrilled to learn that she is the first Walt Whitman recipient of the National Italian Honor Society’s Societa’ Onoraria Italica Scholarship award. “It’s nice to be recognized because I love this club so much and I’ve dedicated so much of my time to it,” said our overachieving senior. “She is amazing in everything she does,” said Ms. Manuela Stefanelli, one of Walt Whitman’s Italian language teachers. “She is a very motivated student who has worked very hard for the club [WLHS] and we are going to miss her a lot.” Ellysandra will be attending Binghamton University in the fall where she would like to continue her interest in both Language Arts and Math.
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Huntington Scholar-Athlete Awards
The Huntington Town Board recently honored 20 local high school seniors who excel in both academics and athletics at the annual Scholar-Athlete Awards Ceremony. Each of the winners – one male and one female from each of the 10 high schools in the Town -- had been selected by their school, which provided biographies that Town Board members read at the ceremony.
Congratulations to Robert Bottoni and Zenab Ojibe. Robert Bottoni worked very hard in the classroom and on the football and baseball fields to earn his Scholar-Athlete Award. Even missing his senior football season due to an injury didn’t diminish this young man’s determination. Robert will be playing football at Hobart University next fall where he will be majoring in Business.
Whether she’s on the soccer field, basketball court or running track, Zenab Ojibe always give her all, and like her male counterpart Robert, that includes the classroom as well. Zenab will be entering the pre-med program at Cornell University next fall as she pursues her desire to become a Sports Doctor.
Congratulations to both of these fine students, you make Walt Whitman and South Huntington proud.
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Tyreek Burwell’s Walk-On Warrior Camp
Tyreek Burwell, and NFL Offensive Tackle for the San Diego Chargers will be holding his "Walk-on Warrior Camp" for the kids of his hometown. The camp will be held at Walt Whitman High School (Tyreek's alma mater) from 9AM-5PM on Saturday, June 18th.
Tyreek specifically wanted the camp to be held at Walt Whitman, because it's the school that helped shaped the man he is today and he wants to give back to the school by building goodwill, providing mentorship and helping to inspire the next generation of athletes.
Date: Saturday, June 18th
Location: 301 W Hills Rd, Huntington Station, NY 11746 (Walt Whitman High School)
Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (4:00 PM - 5:00 PM autograph/photo op session)
Tickets: $35 early registration, $40 walk up price
Online Signup Here
AGENDA FOR THE DAY:
9:00 - 9:30 - Intros with all the coaches - provide breakdown of career
9:30 - 10:00 - Warm ups
10:05 - 12:00 - Positional drills (rotate coach-to-coach)
12:00 - 12:40 - Lunch
12:45 - 2:00 - More positional drill workouts (agility work) 40 times, 20 yard shuttle, 10 yard shuttle, etc
2:05 - 2:35 - Q&A with all the coaches
2:40 - 4:00 - 7 vs 7 low impact passing scrimmage
4:00-5:00 - Photo Op/autograph signing
Coaches Involved:
Tyreek Burwell - OT, San Diego Chargers
Offensive tackle for the San Diego Chargers. He signed with them in 2015 as an undrafted free agent. He played college football at the University of Cincinnati after transferring from DIII SUNY-Cortland.
Sean Davis – DB, Pittsburgh Steelers
2016 2nd round draft pick from Maryland - will most likely be the starting SS this upcoming season for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Zac Brooks – RB, Seattle Seahawks
Running back for the Seattle Seahawks of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Seahawks in the seventh round, 247th overall of the 2016 NFL draft. He played college football at Clemson.
Brian Witherspoon – CB/KR, New York Giants (retired)
Brian Witherspoon is an American track and field runner and former NFL cornerback and return specialist. He was signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars as an undrafted free agent in 2008. He played college football at Stillman.
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Celebrating an Amazing Career
It is no secret that our well-known teacher, colleague, and friend, Mr.
Allan Deitz, will be retiring this June after 34 years in education. Allan's
passion for music education and commitment to students has been remarkable
and like all our retirees, his work leaves an indelible mark upon
generations of families throughout our South Huntington community.
Inrecognition of this special occasion, Allan offered to host a grand
inter-generational concert to benefit the South Huntington Instrumental
Music Initiative.
This free and dynamic night will include performances by our Walt
Whitman Wind Ensemble and Jazz Band, with special guest appearances by
colleagues, alumni, friends, and professional musicians from Allan's four
decades of his extended music family. All proceeds will be earmarked to
providing instruments for elementary students at the beginning stages of
their musical development. These instruments will remain with the students
through their scholastic years and become a prized possession that motivates
the continued growth of children throughout our music program.
The benefit show, to be held onFriday, June 17, 2016, at7:30 p.m.in the
Walt Whitman High School Performing Arts Center, is a donation-driven
evening of beautiful music that features some of the finest artists in the
tri-state region. We welcome you to reserve a spot at Allan's going away
concert by mailing your interest notification and any donation you choose
to:
The South Huntington Educational Foundation (SHEF).
Please include "Deitz Concert" in the memo section and mail material to:
Ms. Jackie Tartaro
Arts Office
60 Weston Street
Huntington Station, NY 11746
You can also register and donate immediately online through:
https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/HuntingtonStation/TheBenefitConcertFestivalcelebratingAllanDeitzsCareer
Or
Call Ms. Sheila Buhse for more information;631-812-3018.
Be well,
Dave Bennardo
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Deputy Superintendent Honored
Congratulations to South Huntington Deputy Superintendent Jacqueline Harris, who was honored as a Phenomenal Woman at Metropolitan College of New York Phenomenal Women of Power Breakfast on Saturday, May 21, 2016. Ms. Harris was recognized for making a significant contribution to shaping modern life and ensuring “her-story” is not ignored in history. The breakfast, organized by Dr. Gay Bullock who received the Audrey Cohen Award for her work, is a conversation for women, about women and by women. Ms. Harris led the discussion regarding the notion of “playing the woman card.” Women, like Ms. Harris, are evidence that women are an instrumental and essential part of making this world a better place. Again, congratulations to Ms. Harris for her empowering message.
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Leaders of Tomorrow
On Tuesday, May 31st, members of the Leaders of Tomorrow and student government officers from Grades 6 through 8, headed to the State Capitol in Albany. All students who attended were given a private tour by Assemblyman Chad Lupinacci. It was truly an amazing experience for our students and staff. Special thank you to Ms. Bernard, Ms. Smith, and Ms. Kelly, GO advisers, and Mr. Scharpf and Mr. Karcz, advisers for the Leaders of Tomorrow. The entire Stimson family would like to thank Assemblyman Lupinacci for taking time out of his busy schedule to expose our students to the importance of civic responsibility and the inner workings of our State government.
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Pinocchio Finds a Home at Countrywood
When Countrywood teacher Ms. Adrienne Workman collaborates with music teacher Mr. Adam Slawitsky some pretty amazing things can happen. One, that happily gets repeated each year, is Ms. Workman’s annual play that brings the very best out of her young thespians. On a recent Thursday morning, and again at 7PM for families to enjoy, the Countrywood Playhouse performed the play ‘Pinocchio’ to delighted audiences.
Pinocchio must prove himself to be brave, loyal and honest to make his greatest wish come true. Did Pinocchio prove himself worthy to become a real boy? Ask anyone who saw this wonderfully produced play to find out.
Great Job Countrywood and fantastic cast!
Production Staff
Co-Directors- Mr. Adam Slawitsky and Ms. Adrienne Workman
Set Design- Mrs. Carol Davis
Sound Board Operator- Ms. Samantha Marmann
Cast of Characters
Pinocchio-Nate Hoffman, John Mannino, and Tai Koo
Geppetto-Noah Andre and Suraj Balu
Blue Fairy- Angelina Alicea
Antonio- Dr. Dave Bennardo and Dr. Jared Bloom
Angelina- Gabby Gallardo
The Fox- Mr. Slawitsky
The Cat- Ms. Workman
Coachman- Mr. Clines and Kimberly Poncet
Candlewick- Kaylee O'Brien
Gina- Lilly Dreydoppel
Bad Kids- Sammy Saltz, Emily Butterfield, London Campbell, Kaylee Kim
Balloon Seller- Keeliana Roche
Organ Grinder- Olivia Lizardi
Pizza Maker- Matthew Diaz
Villagers/Narrators/Toys-Michael Bell, James Cortes, Christian Cruz, Gavin Gershuny, Giselle Novinski, Kyle Schreiber, Aidyn Waugh, Ms. Fischer, Mr. Cardella, Mrs. Jacci Harris, and Dr. Joseph Centamore.
Special Thanks:
To our Administrators, Ms. Kenney and Mrs. Njenga, Mr. and Mrs. Mannino, Mr. and Mrs. Butterfield, Ms. Shaina Fischer, Mr. Christopher Clines, Mrs. Carol Davis, Ms. Karli Regan, Ms. Samantha Marmann, Countrywood Custodial Staff, Danielle Kimmins, and to North Shore Studio of Dance.
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Right in Our Own Back Yard
Launchpad Huntington, The Work Force Development (WFDI) Institute and South Huntington School District have joined forces to create the Manufacturing Technology Task Force made up of student leaders (grades 6-12), STEM teachers, curriculum development, CTE and College/Career Coaches along with local manufacturers to develop a program to provide industry-relevant, technology experience to both teachers and students.
The first initiative for the Manufacturing Technology Task Force was a May 27th trip for technology students and teachers from the South Huntington School District, to visit manufacturing companies on Long Island, including East West Industries. The visit provided an opportunity to tour the facilities, meet the company CEOs, and learn firsthand about the skills needed to for jobs in local manufacturing technology companies. In addition, it was the first step in helping teachers develop curriculum to help prepare students for manufacturing technology jobs on Long Island, focusing on 3D technology.“Our school district is thrilled to be participating in a unique partnership with Launchpad Huntington, WDI Institute and various manufacturing companies on Long Island, such asEast/WestIndustries,” said Dr. Jared Bloom, South Huntington Assistant Superintendent for Instruction and Curriculum. “Through this partnership,students and teachers will work side by side with industry professionals to learn about the various manufacturers on Long Island and how 3D printing is used in their facilities. Students, teachers, and industry leaders will then work collaboratively to develop a first-of-its-kind curriculum that meets the needs of the district while providing experts in the field an opportunity to share their vision and provide direct guidance and support.”
East/West Industries rolled out the red carpet for the South Huntington group with an afternoon that included presentations, industry tours and meetings with department heads in manufacturing and engineering. East/West Industries is a Department of Defense major supplier of Ejection, Crew, and Helicopter Seats, Survival Kits, and Emergency Oxygen Systems, to name a few.
Our students came away with a much greater understanding of companies like East/West that populate Long Island and are in need of qualified workforce personnel. “Launchpad has been focusing heavily on finding ways to align educators with industry - specifically technology driven industries - so that students develop skills that are appropriate and relevant to open positions that are not getting filled.” said Phil Rugile of LaunchPad Huntington. “This is a huge step towards creating a meaningful alliance that will produce tangible results.”
Thank you to all the great people at East/West Industries for sharing and showcasing their outstanding company.
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Xanadu Mercy Benefit Concert Tonight
On June 3rd, 2016, Xanadu Literary Magazine is hosting the Mercy Benefit Concert. The Mercy Benefit Concert is our way of raising money to help Project HOPE. Project HOPE aids in Soup Kitchens across Long Island. Tickets are $5 and T-Shirts are $20. All proceeds go to Project HOPE in order to ensure that they have sufficient funds to carry out their resources to the Community. Project HOPE is an initiative to provide food for individuals and families in the Huntington area who need it, this concert's proceeds will go directly to this organization.
Where: South Cafe at Walt Whitman High School
When: Friday, June 3rd @ 6:45pm
Who: Performers consist of many student groups and individuals performing various types of music from acoustic to funk.
-To purchase the shirt pictured above or tickets for $5, see a Xanadu editor or Mr. Pipolo in room 633, if you have any questions, you can reach us at xanadulit@gmail.com. Hope to see you there.
http://www.xanadulitmag.com/
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Maplewood Students Raise $5,628 for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
The students atMaplewood Intermediate School participated again this year in the Math-a-Thon program and pledged to complete math activities to raise money for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Overall this year, the students raised $5,628.00 for the children at St. Jude Hospital. Since 2002, third-grade teacher, Diane Labate has been coordinating this event at Maplewood for the students to participate in. Since that time, the students from Maplewood have raised a grand total of $57,764.00 for the children at St. Jude Research Hospital. "This was a very special year for me to coordinate this event," said Ms. Labate. "My student Trevor Kolar and his twin brother Myles participated in the event, and Myles just finished treatment for Leukemia in April."
Way to Go Maplewood!
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ENL Awards Night
On the evening of May 25th the Walt Whitman English as a New Language (ENL) department held their annual awards night and dinner celebration. Their teachers awarded multiple students certificates for their accomplishments. Students, parents, and staff were then able to enjoy food and music that had everyone out of their seats dancing. Mr. Murphy and the administration would like to thank the entire ENL department for their efforts. A special thank you to Ms. Jordan and Ms. Rodrigues who were the organizers of the evening.Congratulations to the following students:
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