http://www.islipufsd.org Copyright 2010 Syntax Communications Click here for more information http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1049 Thu, 29 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT As the Islip High School Concert Band played the opening bars of Edward Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance,” members of the Class of 2010 stepped onto the athletic field to cheers of congratulations from proud family and friends. Happily donning their Buccaneer purple and white cap and gowns, the students prepared to take part in the commencement ceremony signifying their successful completion of high school. The ceremony was laced with special performances featuring members of the graduating class, including the singing of the “The National Anthem” by senior members of Swing and Bon Jovi’s “It’s My Life” by the Senior Choral Ensemble. Prior to the presentation of the diplomas, Valedictorian Karen Gambina, Salutatorian Christian Dolan, Board of education Trustee Mary Dennis, Superintendent of Schools Susan Schnebel, High School Principal Eileen Rossman, and Senior Class advisor Kerri Schmalacker were each given an opportunity to address the graduates and leave them with words of reflection, encouragement, and best wishes. "Our four years at Islip HS have been marked by our academics,” said Karen, who will be attending Columbia University in the fall. “We are now more than ready to embark on the journey called life. I want to thank all of you for making my years at Islip High School ones I will never forget. Above all, strive to do your best and use the values you have learned. I wish you the utmost luck and happiness in your future. Go forth Class of 2010 and succeed!" Added Principal Rossman, “I've enjoyed working with you and watching you grow. Find your passion and let no one get in your way. You are the hope, the dream, the future. Thank you so much for a wonderful seven years. Good luck and may your dreams come true." Following the conferring of diplomas, official declaration as high school graduates, and the traditional cap toss, the Islip High School Class of 2010 stood together one final time as they recessed from the football field no longer as students, but alumni ready to take on the world that awaits them. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1026 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT Commack Road (PDF) Sherwood (PDF) Wing (PDF) http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=996 Thu, 24 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Maud S. Sherwood fifth grader Olivia Bouler is known as a compassionate person with a love of birds. When she heard about the oil spill on the Gulf Coast she sprang into action. Combining her love for birds, Olivia contacted the National Audubon Society to offer her help, with the idea of drawing pictures of her favorite birds for the first 500 people who donated money to the cause. She set about creating a Facebook page which was discovered by AOL, and from there everything snowballed. AOL set up an artist’s page and announced “Olivia’s Help the Gulf Wildlife Project,” and donated $25,000 to Audubon on behalf of Olivia. Due to her efforts, Olivia has been featured on The CBS Evening News with Katie Couric, Larry King Live, The Today Show, CNN, BBC, and in the pages of Newsday among many others. “The attention is amazing and overwhelming,” said Olivia. “I’ve always loved birds and wanted to help any way I could. I’m flabbergasted by everything.” To date, Olivia’s Wildlife Project has raised more than $100,000 and the donations keep coming. “We’re so proud of her,” said Nadine Bouler, Olivia’s mother. “As a teacher I have always told my students that they can make a difference. Seeing it demonstrated by my own child is amazing and overwhelming.” To find out how you can help, visit Olivia’s AOL Artist page at http://www.aolartists.com/projects/help-the-gulf/. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=992 Sun, 20 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students in the Islip High School Junior Chamber of Commerce Club received a “Certificate of Recognition for Outstanding Voluntary Service to the Town of Islip Youth Bureau and Youth Service Agencies” at the Town of Islip Youth Bureau Volunteer Recognition Night. Throughout the year, the 40 members of the club have tutored fellow students, participated in youth mentoring activities, provided lawn maintenance and snow removal for residents in need, and various other activities through their affiliation with the South Shore Community Organization. Pictured (left to right) back row: James Spillane, Adam Lucas, Patrick Geraghty, Qi Wei Zheng; front row: Chelsea Rogers, Kaitlyn Spillane, Khaleeah Cherry, Rebecca Strickland, advisor Renée Clock, and Louis Jocks. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=993 Sun, 20 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Ethan Fields, a seventh grader at Islip Middle School, had the unique opportunity to perform his French horn at Carnegie Hall with the Metropolitan Youth Suffolk Principal Orchestra. To become a member of the Youth Orchestra, Ethan had to audition with a level 5 or 6 New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) solo. He is currently a member of the Islip Middle School band and chorus under the direction of Alison Jeanes and Richard McGale, respectively, participated in the 2010 SCMEA concert and NYSSMA Festival, and studies privately with David Stevens in East Islip. Ethan is the son of Kathleen and Matthew Fields. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=965 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students and staff at Commack Road Elementary School covered the front lawn dressed in patriotic red, white, and blue as they gathered together to honor our nation's flag and the many freedoms it represents during their annual Flag Day celebration. With mini American flags waving, the students welcomed members of the Rosy-Bohn American Legion Post 411, Suffolk County Legislator Tom Cilmi, Board of Education trustee Tom Leggio, and Interim Assistant Superintendent for Education Services and Interim Principal Michael O’Brien as they led the Commack Road Girl and Boy Scouts to the event. During the ceremony, patriotic songs such as “The Star Spangled Banner,” “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” and “God Bless America” were enjoyed by those in attendance. Additionally, the American Legion presented awards to student essay winners who demonstrated leadership, dedication, and accomplishment in their writings. Congratulations to second grader Jack Atlas, third grader Valerie Buonsaera, fourth graders Faith Terrill and Michael Passamano, and fifth grader Holly Iafrate. Erin Renwich and Chad Fields were also presented awards for academics and music, respectively. “I want you to remember one word whenever you look at our Flag,” said Mr. O’Brien. “Freedom.” http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=966 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT For ten weeks, the student body at Islip High School worked collaboratively to accumulate, sort, and clean various items donated to the school from local families, businesses, teachers, and staff. Items such as clothes, furniture, stuffed animals, bicycles, and even a guitar were then sold at a community yard sale to raise funds for earthquake victims in Haiti and Chili and flood victims in Tennessee. “This has been an entire community effort,” said English teacher Ann Gordon, who helped organize the event with fellow teachers Barbara Wagner, Liz Tirch, and Roseann D’Amico. “In Islip we really take care of our own, but we also have to be aware that there are people outside our borders that need our help.” Added Mrs. Wagner, “The kids have been great. They have such a tremendous work ethic and without them this really would not have been possible.” On a beautiful Saturday in June, more than 50 tables were set up in front of the high school as people perused the racks of clothing and other items, while helping raise more than $2,600. Additionally, Concord Cleaners in East Islip cleaned all of the donated coats and jackets free of charge and provided 500 hangers. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=970 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Tune in to the CBS Evening News with Katie Couric on Monday, June 14 at 6:30 pm to see Sherwood fifth grader Olivia Bouler speak about her fundraising efforts for the Gulf Coast Oil Spill. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=949 Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Summer Reading Information High School Summer Reading Information Middle School Summer Reading Information Sherwood Elementary Summer Reading Information Commack Road Elementary Summer Reading Information Wing Elementary Summer Reading Information Summer Reading List for Students Entering Kindergarten Summer Reading List for Students Entering Grade 1 http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=936 Tue, 08 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Alda Yuan, a junior at Islip High School, competed against more than 10,000 students nationwide in the National Chemistry Olympiad. Alda placed in the Top 50 students in the nation and received top honors for her achievement. She is one of only five students in New York State to achieve the “High Honor” status, and the only student from Long Island. The National Chemistry Olympiad is a competition that selects the top four students in the nation to represent the United States in the International Chemistry Olympiad. In March, Alda took the local examination, during which she qualified as one of the top 19 students in New York State, which allowed her to sit for the national exam. The national exam consists of a grueling multiple-choice section, essay questions, and an intense laboratory section, which are all used to determine the strength of the candidate. Alda is a member of the High School Science Olympiad team, enrolled in the Science Research class, and she plans to work this summer at Cornell Medical Lab on cell research. Pictured with Alda is her science teacher, Matt Christiansen. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=932 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Five students at Islip High School – juniors Emily Smith, Alda Yuan, and Jaime Zahl and seniors Alyssa Griffin and Stephanie Schneider – were recognized by the Honorable Congressman Steve Israel, in the House of Representatives, for receiving the Honor Our Future Leaders Award. To win this distinction, each student wrote their own rendition of the “I Have a Dream” speech delivered by Martin Luther King Jr. “I am proud to honor Emily, Alda, Jaime, Alyssa, and Stephanie for their academic and personal achievements and congratulate them upon the receipt of this prestigious award,” said Representative Israel. Pictured left to right: Alda Yuan, Emily Smith, Alyssa Griffin, Stephanie Schneider, and Jaime Zahl. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=933 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Jonathan Herr, a student at Islip High School, received the 2010 County Executive Public Service Award and was presented a Certificate of Appreciation from Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy. Jonathan is a member of the Boys Scouts and is currently towards Eagle – the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of America – by building a bench and kiosk for his local church and donating funds for the soup kitchen. Additionally, he raised more than $300 for the Saint Baldrick’s Foundation by shaving his head. The Foundation raises money for childhood cancer research primarily through head-shaving events. Pictured with Jonathan is Islip High School Principal Dr. Eileen Rossman. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=934 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Throughout the school year, students in Ann Gordon’s freshman English class have been communicating through written letters with first-grade students in Lisa Dieumegard’s class at Wing Elementary School. The pen-pal program, now in its second year, began with simple introduction letters, and throughout the year the students shared what they did on vacations, activities they enjoyed, and their favorite things. “When I would come into the classroom with new letters, my students would get so excited,” said Ms. Dieumegard. “It was like Christmas morning every time they received a new letter.” Added Ms. Gordon, “It’s fun and a great opportunity for the older kids to be positive role models for the little ones.” To culminate the pen-pal program, the students from Wing visited the High School students, where they were able to meet face-to-face for the first time. During the visit, the older students took their young pen pals on a tour of the school building, participated in a one-on-one reading activity, and enjoyed lunch together in the award-winning high school cafeteria. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=914 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Islip High School junior Lauren Goldstein secured acceptance into the selective and prestigious Long Island’s Best: Young Artists at The Heckscher Museum exhibition. This juried exhibition, which ran from April 17 to May 2, 2010, featured work by art students in grades 9 through 12 submitted by more than 60 art teachers from public and private schools throughout Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Lauren is the first Islip student to be chosen in four years. Congratulations Lauren! http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=915 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the Islip Middle School Mathletes. The seventh and eighth-grade team members came in first place in the Mathlete competition. Together, the team competed in the Giants, Wizards, and Elves game, from which they worked cooperatively to take the first-place prize. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=916 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT During the weekend of May 22, members of the Islip High School SWING Choir performed at the Music in the Parks competition at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey. During the trip, the 18 student-musicians, directed by Rich Harris, took the stage at Lakewood High School before two highly respected musical judges. SWING received a rating of Excellent and First Place in the Jazz Choir Single A division, along with such comments from the judges as “a mature, balanced, and beautifully organized vocal jazz group.” Additionally, Toni Ann Fanizzi received the Best Vocal Soloist Award. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=917 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Thirteen Islip High School Science Research students participated in the Long Island Science Congress islandwide science competition. The Long Island Science Congress is a science competition open to all of the high schools in both Nassau and Suffolk counties, grades 9-12. Each school is allowed to bring 10 individual or group research projects to the competition to be judged for the science and scientific method used during the research. The students exhibit their work on a trifold board and must present to the judge and answer the judge’s questions. During the competition, senior Michael Phalen was awarded the top prize for his project “The Effects of Zostera Marina and Argopectin Irradian on Nutrient Levels and Water Quality.” Additionally, nine Islip students – Daniel Eichner, Christa Gentile, Samantha Rodriguez, Stephanie Schneider, Emmanuel Class, Christopher Earls, Gabriella Rocco, Madison Schaefer, and Nancy Zurita – received Achievement awards; two students – Morgan Greene and Cristina Rizzo – were awarded Meritorious distinction; and one student – Cierra Scott – received Honorable Mention at the competition. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=889 Sun, 23 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Samantha Schulman, a senior at Islip High School, was honored at the YMCA of Long Island Annual Volunteer Recognition Dinner on May 13. At the dinner, Samantha received the Great South Bay YMCA Youth of the Year Award. Samantha is actively involved in the Great South Bay Leaders Club and has participated in extensive volunteer projects. Additionally, she is president of the Keep Islip Clean Program, a member of the Honor Society and Art Club, and volunteers at “Kids in Action,” a physical therapy office for children. She will attend Touro College in the fall and plans to major in physical therapy. Pictured with Samantha is Islip High School Principal Dr. Eileen Rossman. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=890 Sun, 23 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Letter from Supt. RE: Budget Vote http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=886 Wed, 19 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Catherine M. Romano and Nelson Couvertier re-elected as Board of Education Trustees Thank you for your support! http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=884 Tue, 18 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students and staff at Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School in Islip honored the 40th recognition of Earth Day in a weeklong celebration with a variety of activities to promote the three R’s: reduce, reuse, and recycle. Throughout the week, the students donated used/broken crayons and old Nike sneakers that were to be recycled by Nike and Crayola, brought their water to school in reusable water bottles rather than disposable water containers, and contributed gently used coats that were cleaned courtesy of Whitehouse Cleaners, to be donated and reused. On the actual anniversary of Earth Day, fifth-grade students from Beth Fazio’s class attended the grand opening/ribbon-cutting ceremony of the Suffolk County Environmental Center at Seatuck @ the Scully Estate. The students planted flowers around the grounds of the estate, and prior to their visit created art projects for the ribbon-cutting. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=860 Mon, 17 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the Islip Middle School EXCEL Science Olympiad team which competed against 42 other groups, representing the best in New York State, at the State-level competition at SUNY New Paltz. A special congratulations to Anna Israelian and Trevor Uher, who won sixth place in SumoBots, and Natalie Oscher and Michael Oscher, who won fourth place in Write It Do It. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=872 Mon, 17 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} Updated 5/7/10 - Click Here http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=826 Thu, 06 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students in Susan Riche’s Business Ownership and Marketing classes at Islip High School were granted the opportunity to visit local businesses. The students met with the owners and managers of McDonald’s, Bubba’s Burrito Bar, Islip True Value Hardware, and Gino’s Tuscany Restaurant, all located on Main Street in Islip, to get a close-up view of business operations. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=818 Mon, 03 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT In recognition of the 40th celebration of Earth Day, members of the Islip High School Keep Islip Clean (KIC) Club participated in their fourth annual Pond Day. This year the students assisted Seatuck in cleaning up the “party pit” of garbage that had accumulated in the woods over the last 50 years, in anticipation of the grand opening of the Scully mansion as a museum, outdoor learning center, and nature preserve. “Much of what we do cannot be accomplished in the classroom setting, so it is important that students participate and volunteer in their community as part of become well-rounded citizens,” said Wayne Mennecke, KIC advisor. “It also gives them a sense of ownership over something greater than what they do in school. It’s nice to know so many students truly do care.” Previous Pond Day activities had all taken place within the courtyard at Islip High School, where students built a pond, assembled benches/desks, and planted gardens and trees to convert the area into an outdoor classroom. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=819 Mon, 03 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT For one week in March, kindergarten and first-grade students at Wing Elementary School in Islip were tasked with caring for a newborn baby – a baby duck that is. The ducklings were picked up by first-grade teacher Lucy DeLise from Massey Duck Farm still encased in their eggs, and the students were in charge of ensuring that they were properly heated. Once hatched, the students had to feed and water the ducklings before they made their way back to the duck farm. To prepare for the ducklings, Ms. DeLise’s class read the book “Chickens Aren’t The Only Ones” by Ruth Heller, which tells a story about various egg-laying animals and their unique eggs. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=808 Tue, 27 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT Sixth-grade students on the red team at Islip Middle School participated in a cross-curricular assignment in which they studied World War II in their social studies class, read historical fiction and poetry in their English Language Arts classes, and constructed art projects based around the reading of Pavel Friendmann’s “I Never Saw Another Butterfly” poem. Working cooperatively with their teachers, Kimberly Striplin, Meredith Noone, and Valerie Gallagher, the students constructed paper butterflies to represent the 1.6 million children who lost their lives during the Holocaust. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=787 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT Fifth-grade students in Beth Fazio’s class at Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School in Islip teamed up with their second-grade buddies in Stacey Cumming’s class and brought the classic tale of “The Three Little Pigs” to life as they performed “The Three Piggy Opera.” Dressed in pig noses and pig ears, the children took the stage carrying straw, sticks and bricks, as narrators and song told the story of the pigs and their persistent wolf. Having worked together throughout the year as buddy classes, the students sang songs, performed choreography, and immersed themselves into their characters. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=770 Sun, 11 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT Recognizing the need to instill healthy habits in children at an early age, Wing Elementary School held its annual PTA-sponsored Health and Safety Fair. The kindergarten and first-grade students received health tips such as proper nutrition and the importance of physical activity, as well as valuable knowledge on safety issues ranging from crossing the street to being aware of their surroundings. Suffolk County Community College School of Nursing students also performed health checkups on student teddy bears to teach the children the importance of regular visits to their family doctor. In addition to meeting with various vendors, the PTA provided each class with biodegradable pots, soil, and string bean seeds as a way to discuss healthy eating habits. “We are hoping that having them grow their own vegetable will be a catalyst to being excited about eating more veggies,” stated Mindy Lawrence, PTA member. The district would like to thank the following vendors for volunteering their time to attend the Health and Safety Fair: Benson Chiropractic, East Islip Animal Hospital, Parisi Speed School at Gold’s Gym, Good Samaritan Hospital, Islip Fire Department, Lindenhurst Eye Physicians, MTA Police, Suffolk County Police, Suffolk County Community College, Trader Joe’s, VMA Karate School, The Great South Bay YMCA, Cornell Cooperative, Suffolk County Department of Health, and West Islip Orthodontics. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=732 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click here to view the Budget Wrap-up Meeting Flier http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=734 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Islip Students Compete in Their Version of the Olympics While Lindsey Vonn, Bode Miller, and the rest of Team USA represented the United States at the Vancouver Olympics, the students at Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School in Islip participated in their own version of the Olympics. During their physical education classes, the students, who represented various countries, competed against one another in such sports as bobsledding, speed skating, curling, ice hockey, and the skeleton. Physical education teachers Greg Dini and Greg Ruccia organized the week’s worth of events and helped promote a healthy competitive spirit among the athletes. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=722 Sun, 14 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Islip Students Pack Goodie Bags for Soldiers in Afghanistan In an effort to show their appreciation for our soldiers, Student Government members at Islip Middle School have adopted an army platoon currently stationed in Afghanistan. Each student received the name of a soldier and wrote an individual letter to him or her. They also packed goodie bags filled with items such as soap, socks, puzzles, power bars, instant coffee packages, and other requested items for their soldiers. “It makes me feel pretty good to help a group who are risking their lives to protect our freedom,” said seventh grader Megan Scherger. Added sixth-grade student Billy Baldwin, “They’re sacrificing themselves every day; this is the least we can do for them.” The Student Government held fundraisers to purchase the supplies requested by the platoon. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=700 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for Invitation Click Here for Registration Form http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=687 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT For the fifth consecutive year, Islip High School’s School to Business Partnership Program presented a Career Interest Seminar. More than 80 juniors and seniors met with professionals in a variety of fields ranging from politics and healthcare to law and education. Tom Cilmi, Suffolk County Legislator, 10th District Islip, spoke to the students and mentors and offered advice to the students as the keynote speaker. “The more bridges you build, the more rivers you can cross,” said Mr. Cilmi when referencing the creation of professional relationships and contacts. Prior to the event the students created a resume and answered a questionnaire to identify their career interests. From there, the business department, including teachers Renée Clock and Susan Richie and chairperson EJ Hicks, paired up the mentors and the students. One week prior to the seminar, North Shore LIJ Southside Hospital representative Marge Miller spoke with the students about proper business etiquette, including the correct way to dress. During the event, there were three sessions and each session allowed for the students to speak with two professionals and ask questions related to their specific fields. “The idea of the seminar is to provide juniors and seniors with a variety of meaningful experiences and various career fields they are interested in,” said Ms. Clock. This year, for the first time, Islip High School invited students from Bayport-Blue Point to join in and benefit from this experience. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=701 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT In honor of Dr. Seuss' 106th birthday on March 2nd, reading specialists Sue Wildenauer and Janine Falanga, at Wing Elementary School in Islip each dressed up as the iconic character The Cat in the Hat and made surprise appearances to every kindergarten and first-grade classroom. The children enjoyed listening to a story read by The Cat in the Hat and they were even able to ask him a few questions! http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=702 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Members of the Islip Middle School volleyball team, along with their coach, AnnMarie Carbone Mills, raised more than $2,000 for the Islip Breast Cancer Coalition through the sale of handmade pink and white socks, a bake sale, and participation in their version of the nationwide Dig Pink event. Dig Pink is a Breast Cancer Awareness event and fundraiser that both collegiate and high school teams participated in during the month of October. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=703 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT For the past six years, fifth-grade students from Commack Road Elementary School in Islip have worked together with the High School Art Club to paint scenery for the high school musical. Joined by their art teachers, Melissa Trocchio-Cohen and Bethany Fisher, the students used their creativity to put finishing touches on locker rooms, bathrooms, and benches being used in this year’s production of Damn Yankees. “This experience gives the fifth graders a taste of what they can become involved with when they come to the high school,” said Mrs. Trocchio-Cohen. Added Ms. Fisher, “The students are so proud of what they accomplish here. They bring their families to the musical and show off the pieces they helped create.” http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=699 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=693 Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Kindergarten and first-grade students from Wing Elementary School in Islip celebrated the 100th Day of School on February 23, for which they participated in mathematical counting games, arts and crafts projects, and writing assignments. Pictured are students from Stacey Wieber’s class. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=678 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click here for more information. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=614 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click here for more information http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=680 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT To culminate their social studies cultural unit, the fifth-grade students in Trish Specht’s class at Commack Road Elementary School in Islip participated in an in-class Cultural Feast. To prepare for the feast, the students each researched the country of their family’s origin, wrote reports, and created a recipe booklet featuring various items such as flan, Challah bread, El Salvadorian empanadas, and shepherd’s pie from Ireland. During the feast, the students shared with their classmates artifacts and various facts from their selected countries such as the currency, capital, languages spoken, and famous inhabitants. Countries represented included Malta, Spain, Germany, Ireland, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Netherlands, Greece, and France. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=679 Sun, 28 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT TICKETS FOR THE HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL DAMN YANKEES ARE NOW AVAILABLE! Show dates are March 18 and 19th at 7:00pm , & March 20th at 2:00pm & 7:00pm. Please go to www.seatyourself.biz/isliphs to order! Tickets are already going fast. Tickets are $5. Senior Citizens are $2. HURRY! It is sure to be an amazing production. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=668 Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT Under the supervision of mentors in a host of professions, more than 100 sophomores from Islip High School spent Groundhog’s Day getting a firsthand taste of fields such as law and order, medicine, mortuary science, nutrition, fashion, education, and politics. Continuing a yearly tradition, the Islip Careers Department at Islip High School, in cooperation with the Mentoring Partnership of Long Island, sponsored the Groundhog Job Shadow Day. Throughout the day, the students worked hand-in-hand with such local businesses as Southside Hospital, East Islip Animal Hospital, Overton Funeral Home, Penn Van Meter Architects, Schlimbaum & Schlimbaum Law Office, Bi-County Collision, Harvey Allen Hair Salon, and the Town of Islip. “It is wonderful that students have the opportunity to make informed decisions about their future careers by shadowing professionals in their own community,” stated Islip High School teacher Susan Riche, who helped organize the event. Prior to the day, students completed placement applications in order to allow them the best overall experience. Following their shadow day, students completed reflective activities and wrote thank you letters to their mentors. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=666 Sun, 21 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click Herefor more information http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=625 Sun, 21 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for Calendar http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=636 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT Select students from Islip High School and Islip Middle School were chosen to participate in the first Town of Islip Anti-Bias Task Force. The students from the high school’s Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) and Students Together Against Racism (STAR) and the middle school’s Student Government attended three conferences during which they shared ideas with fellow students from around the Town and listened to a broad range of speakers, from a rabbi to a disabled man. The students, along with their advisors, took the ideas and information gathered at the Task Force back to their schools to educate their fellow classmates on being more tolerant of other’s differences. “People think that bias is over, but they don’t realize that sometimes what they say can hurt someone else,” said senior Emilie Bui, president of STAR. “We’re trying to make people aware of their actions by spreading the word.” Added eighth grader Sabrina Winter, “No matter what our differences on the outside, we’re all the same inside.” http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=629 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT In response to a recent increase in the use of heroin among adolescents in Suffolk County, the Islip School District and the Islip Drug Education Awareness (IDEA) Task Force held a symposium featuring experts in the field of substance abuse, to share information with parents and community members. “Heroin abuse has become an epidemic on Long Island and Islip is not immune,” said Carin Winter, Co-chair of the IDEA Task Force and Islip High School social worker specializing in substance abuse. “We must come together to prevent this epidemic from affecting our students.” “The IDEA Parent Night - Heroin: Protecting Our Children and Our Community” welcomed keynote speaker Dr. Stephen Dewey of the Feinstein Institute of Medical Research; Don Flynn, Islip Public Schools Security; Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds, Executive Director of the Long Island Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependence; and two teenage recovering addicts from Outreach House. “There is a serious issue going on and people need to wake up,” stated Mr. Flynn. “It is imperative that everyone open their eyes. We need to work on this together, we need to have open lines of communication.” The goal of the program was to provide families and community members with accurate information to help prevent substance abuse among our youth and treatment options for substance abuse during adolescence. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=630 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT We have set up this special page to provide detailed information to our residents regarding the development of the 2010-2011 school budget. Check back here often for new budget drafts, budget news, legislative updates, and additional information. 2010 Budget Newsletter Public Hearing on Proposed Budget Proposed 2010-11 Line-by-Line Budget Preliminary Budget Information Provided at the First Workshop Budget Workshop Session 1 Budget Workshop Session 2 Budget Workshop Session 3 Budget Workshop Session 4 Budget Workshop Session 5 Important Dates, Legislator Information, etc. Click here for more information Letter Writing Campaign Unfunded NYS and Federal Mandates and Mandatory Reporting Requirements Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=624 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT For the second time in three years, the EXCEL students from Islip Middle School competed in the tri-state National Engineers Week Future City Regional Competition and won first place. By taking the top spot, the students will now proceed to Washington, D.C. and compete in the national Future City Competition. The contest, which is a national program sponsored by the engineering community, promotes technological literacy and engineering in middle school students and fosters an interest in math, science, and engineering through hands-on, real-world applications. The students spent months constructing a model of their future city, built to scale, using recycled materials with a budget of less than $100. The theme this year was “providing an affordable, green living space for people who have lost their home due to a disaster or financial emergency.” The students worked as a team to build their three-dimensional city “Fa’a Filemu,” located in American Samoa and meaning “the way of peace,” before integrating the design and research results into an essay regarding the engineering challenge and solution, and presenting an oral report to a panel of expert judges. Congratulations to the following students and their teacher Julia Johnson: Bryan Ramirez, Rosie Turner, Katie Barry, Hope Cunningham, Ethan Fields, Natalie Guinan, Andrew Hart, Annmarie Karmakar, Ryan Keller, Tessa Seidenspinner, and Lauren Sparks. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=616 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT Thirty-nine student-musicians from the Islip School District have been selected to participate in the Suffolk County Music Educator’s Association (SCMEA) All-County Festival. The festival, which is divided into three divisions, will be held this March and incorporates students in grades 5-10. The students selected represent the best from across Suffolk County and were chosen based on their New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) scores, as well as teacher recommendations. "All-County Festivals are often the turning point in the life of a young musician,” stated Vincent Green, Coordinator of Fine and Performing Arts. “To be surrounded by so many extraordinary musicians and performing in front of an audience of a thousand... that can be a life-changing experience. Knowing that 39 of our students may become the musicians and music educators of tomorrow as a result of this event is a tribute not only to their hard work but the outstanding support of the entire Islip Schools community." Congratulations to the following students on this outstanding achievement (listed below): Islip High School Band Lori Greenblatt (Flute) and Clarice Oscher (Bb Clarinet) Chorus Doug Mackay (Bass) and Catherine Weston (Soprano) Orchestra Amanda Navaro (Bb Clarinet) and Anna Tashie (Viola) Islip Middle School Band Courtney Carroll (Bb Clarinet), Vito Cassara (Trumpet/Cornet), Caroline Darcy (Flute), Schuyler Dineen (Baritone/Euph), Ethan Fields (French Horn), Hannah Flynn (French Horn), Kristen Freriks (Bb Clarinet), Brian Lithen (Bass Clarinet), Michael Massaro (Alto Sax), Anthony Navaro (French Horn), Michael Oscher (Bb Clarinet), Bryan Ramirez (Baritone/Euph), Madeliene Robbins (Flute), Alec Ruby (Trumpet/Cornet), and Kristen Warnokowski (Trumpet/Cornet) Chorus Hunter Feustel (Soprano), Isabelle Lamarre (Soprano), and Rosemary Turner (Soprano) Orchestra Austen Couvertier (Double Bass), Julia Donahue (Violin), Mariah Tyler (Cello), Carissa Zanfardino (Violin), and Madison Urraro (Violin) Commack Road Elementary School Band Ryan Mounce (Trumpet/Cornet) Chorus Alexa Pendleton (Soprano) and Katherine Schoberl (Soprano) Orchestra Chris Lopez (Violin) and Angela Santaniello (Violin) Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School Band Olivia Bouler (Alto Sax) and Katie Warnokowski (Bb Clarinet) Chorus Gabby Columbo (Alto) and Victoria Cunningham (Alto) Orchestra James Baldino (Double Bass) http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=603 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Parents of juniors and seniors at Islip High School learned the ins and outs of applying for financial aid for colleges. The program, Financial Aid 101: Everything You Need to Know About Financial Aid, was sponsored by the guidance department. Rafael Villalona from St. Joseph’s College walked parents through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) process, answered questions and concerns parents had, and differentiated the types of aid available including grants, scholarships, and work study. A seasoned administrator, who has worked on both sides of the financial aid process, gives Mr. Villalona a well-rounded knowledge of what colleges look for and need when awarding financial aid. 
 http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=604 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT For a week in January, the students at Commack Road Elementary School in Islip received a hands-on lesson in circus skills. Two representatives from The National Circus Project, a cultural arts organization that preserves and promotes the traditional circus arts through education and entertainment, visited the physical education classes and taught the students various activities. During the PTA-sponsored event, the students learned such skills as juggling, diabolo-spinning (utilizing the Chinese yo-yo), balancing, plate-spinning, and devil-stick manipulation. “The great thing about this program is that each child has his or her own success level,” said Lou Beekhuizen from The National Circus Project. “The key is to find what that success level is and help the child attain it.” The students continued their lessons and expanded on them the following week with physical education teachers Jason Orlick and Carrie Rittberg. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=605 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Kindergarten students in Valerie Cordara’s and Lori Murphy’s classes at Wing Elementary School in Islip learned an important lesson on differences in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday. Together the two classes created a special rainbow salad, with such edible items as chocolate chips, candy hearts, marshmallows, and pretzels. Each ingredient used symbolized different character traits and was discussed before being added to the salad. The students also sang “It’s a Wonderful World” and created Nobel-prize medals to wear around their necks. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=566 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click here for more information http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=567 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Two Islip High School students were honored at a dinner sponsored by the New York State Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. Dan Eichner and Kara Rafferty were recognized at the East Wind on December 2. The criteria for achievement for this award are: exceptional physical performance, scholastic ability and leadership qualities. Dan is a true leader in physical education class as he leads by example. He is a three-year varsity athlete in soccer, wrestling and lacrosse, who has maintained a 100.22 average that ranks him fourth in his class. Dan was a scholar-athlete every season and is a member of the National Honor Society and the Foreign Language Honor Society. His future plans consist of studying mechanical engineering at either RPI or the United States Military Academy at West Point in the fall. Kara’s physical education teacher ranks her as one of the All-Time Bests. She has maintained a 93 average while participating on the varsity soccer, basketball, and lacrosse teams for the past three years. Kara has attended the Presidential Youth Inaugural Conference, is a member of the Foreign Language Honor Society and Athletes Helping Athletes, and is an Academic All-American. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=549 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Tuesday, January 26 at 7:00 pm On January 26 at 7:00 pm in the Islip Middle School auditorium, Islip Public Schools, in partnership with the Islip Drug Education and Awareness (IDEA) Task Force, will host “The IDEA Parent Night - Heroin: Protecting Our Children and Our Community.” Professional experts in the field of heroin, including keynote speaker Dr. Stephen L. Dewey from the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, have been invited to share information with parents and community members. For more information, please call Carin Winter, Islip High School social worker specializing in substance abuse at 631.859.2243. Click Here for More Information http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=550 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=560 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Kindergarten students at Wing Elementary School in Islip continued a sweet holiday tradition as they worked to construct candy houses. The students, along with parent volunteers, gathered together to put their artistic abilities to good use by tapping into their creativity and utilizing milk boxes as molds. Students added icing, graham crackers, and colorful candies to construct the delightfully delicious and sweet houses. Anna Cintorino, a kindergartener in Andrea Lopienski’s class at Wing Elementary School, proudly shows off her candy house. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=544 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT For the past eight years, the Wing Elementary School in Islip has been hosting a Holiday Boutique for students and families. The PTA-sponsored event is held at night in order to benefit the many working parents in the district, and features local vendors selling their products. The PTA also supplies an art station that allows the young children and their families to create holiday cards and ornaments. “This night has really become a tradition to many of our families,” said Wing Principal Diane Druckman. “I’ve had students who are now in the middle school return with their parents saying they’d never miss it. It’s a great opportunity for everyone to connect.” Additionally, students involved in D.E.C.A. and Junior Chamber of Commerce at Islip High School attend the event to help wrap gifts, sell raffle tickets, and offer assistance to the younger students purchasing gifts. “It’s perfect for these students, because it helps to hone their business skills,” said advisor Renée Clock. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=545 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click here for more news stories http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=698 Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT On Wednesday, December 16, Islip High School’s select choral performance group, better known as SWING, will perform at Radio City Music Hall prior to the 5 p.m. performance of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular show. SWING was chosen to perform after a selective audition process, which involved sending in a taped performance of the group. The students, led by director Rich Harris, will sing “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” for the packed audience. According to ToniAnn Fanizzi, President of SWING, “This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for us. To perform on stage at Radio City Music Hall and be part of the show is something we will never forget.” ToniAnn adds that the group has scheduled additional practices to prepare for their performance, which will also feature several other schools from across the region. SWING is comprised of 18 high school students, who were chosen after a competitive audition process. In addition to performing at school district and community events, SWING members also make community service a large part of their mission. They hold various fundraising events throughout the year and entertain children of all ages during holiday time with their caroling. “SWING gives us an opportunity to express ourselves, but also gives us the forum to help our community, which is a big plus,” Toni Ann states. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=501 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Carrying a message of hope, courage, and triumph, motivational speaker Sarah Reinertsen visited the students from Islip High School and brought along her “Always Tri” presentation. Sarah was born with proximal femoral focal deficiency, a bone growth disorder that ultimately required the amputation of her leg above the knee when she was a young child. At age 30, despite her unique circumstances, Sarah became the first female runner with a prosthetic leg to complete the Hawaii Ironman triathlon. The Ironman triathlon consists of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a 26-mile marathon run, raced in that order and without a break. During her presentation, Sarah shared with the students her story and how she overcame adversity and naysayers to be where she is today. “I believe we all have a finish line we’re working towards,” said Sarah. “It’s just as hard to get to your goals as it was to get to mine. Keep trying and never let anyone tell you that you can’t.” The program, which was sponsored by the Islip Drug Education Awareness (IDEA) committee, was also offered to parents and community members. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=502 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT On Friday, December 4, Islip High School was the scene of a yearly tradition of music, desserts, and fun. The Holiday Sing-Along, which is a fundraiser for the Islip Friends of the Arts, has been in existence for more than 10 years. This year, those in attendance were led in song by the Islip High School Swing Choir, conducted by Allison Jeanes, and the Middle School Show Choir, directed by Rich Magale. Specifically tailored as a Holiday Treat for families with younger children, there was an arts and crafts table and the ever popular visit from Santa Claus. Student volunteer “elves” helped the children create several craft projects to bring home. District art teachers Lorraine Knoblauch, Melissa Trocchio-Cohen, Elizabeth Heaton and Bethany Fisher were on hand with several art students to do face painting. “It is the Islip Community that enables us to raise funds to then present awards and scholarships to deserving Islip students in grades 4 through 12 each year,” said President Barbara Engels. Photo Caption: Islip High School art teacher Lorraine Knoblauch spreads holiday cheer by helping paint faces during the annual Islip Friends of the Arts Holiday Sing-Along http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=503 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT On November 20th the Commack Road Elementary School in Islip once again honored America’s troops and local families in need during their Night of Giving. Students and staff from CRES teamed up with the Sherwood Elementary School PTA, Girl Scout Troops 146 and 157, Cub Scout Pack 370, Brownie Troops 412 and 994, and Junior Girl Scouts, Chatterbox Preschool, and community volunteers to bag hundreds of pounds of candy and treats and write holiday cards that will be shipped to Afghanistan through the help of Kenneth Rummel, a Command Master Chief of the Navy. Other volunteers sorted and wrapped holiday baskets for 20 local families, so that their holidays would be complete with a delightful turkey dinner. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=504 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Islip School District is committed to providing professional staff-development for all of its employees in order to enhance knowledge and skills to provide a better education for district students. Recently, Judy Stephensen, a visiting educator from New Zealand and expert of AWARD, the district’s new k-3 reading program, provided staff development for second and third-grade teachers at Maud S. Sherwood and Commack Road Elementary Schools. During Ms. Stephensen’s visit, she conducted group read-alouds with the whole class, ran small guided-reading groups while teachers observed, and held workshops for teachers. The workshops allowed the second and third-grade teachers the opportunity to ask in-depth questions on content and strategies in order to better serve their students and to increase their literacy levels. “We are fortunate to have the services of consultants such as Judy Stephenson, who have personally devoted their lives to improving the literacy skills of all children,” stated Michael O’Brien, Interim Assistant Superintendent for Education Services. “Thanks to their efforts through modeling and discussion, our primary-level classroom teachers are sharpening their skills in mastering effective instructional strategies for the teaching of reading, writing, listening and speaking. Working across each primary grade level in the district, the goal is to ensure equity and quality instruction for all of our students.” http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=505 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Throughout the month of December, kindergarten students at Wing Elementary School in the Islip School District got into the holiday spirit and learned the value of giving back by working together to make the holidays a little warmer for those less fortunate. The students participated in a mitten tree project, which donates hats, scarves, and mittens/gloves to the Ronald McDonald House and St. Patrick’s Outreach. Pictured with the Mitten Tree are Principal Diane Druckman and Ellen Fargione’s kindergarten class. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=506 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT In recognition of National Make a Difference Day, the Islip High School Girls Varsity and Junior Varsity Volleyball teams worked together to clean up their community. The town of Islip provided the team with garbage pickers, vests, and garbage bags as they worked their way through the parking lots on Main Street picking up trash and other debris. Along with their coaches, Trisha Tramaglini and Ann Marie Mills, the more than 30 girls filled over 15 garbage bags. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=423 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT In recognition of Veterans Day, Islip High School social studies teachers Ted Blanchard, a former Marine and Gulf War veteran, and Melissa LiPetri hosted members from the Huntington Detachment of the Marine Corps League. During the visit, five combat veterans who fought in World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam War, and during the Cuban Missile Crisis discussed their experiences as members of the United States Marines. The five gentlemen – Frank Suszczynski, Arthur McCormick, Don Dziomba, Joseph Cacioppo, and William Ober – spoke about their personal experiences of why they enlisted, leaving for the war, adjusting to a world of combat and cultural differences, and shared their scariest moment. Students were anxious to hear the men’s service-time stories and view their war souvenirs. This is the fourth year the high school has sponsored this event. “Not only does the visit speak to global history, but it gives the students a chance to hear firsthand accounts and helps make them more aware of what is going on today,” said Mr. Blanchard. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=424 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT Students at Islip Middle School learned a lesson about the importance of teamwork at school and in ordinary life from New York Islanders hockey team mascot Sparky the Dragon and arena hostess Dina. The popular assembly gives the team a chance to speak with students about working together to reach common goals. During the program, teamwork was showcased through students and teacher volunteers who raced to see who could dress in full hockey gear the quickest – the group of three students working together or the teacher working alone. Arena hostess Dina also compared the NHL to school, stating, “From our general manager to our coaches and players, we are working together to be a successful organization just like here at your school, from the principal to your teachers to you working together to be a successful school.” Following the program, the students were given gift bags with Islander merchandise including a folder, pen, and comic book featuring Sparky. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=425 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT Inspired by subway mosaic tile artists such as Squire Vickers, Commack Road Elementary students in the Islip School District created a porcelain tile mosaic to be placed in their cafeteria. Using their Character Education Program as an example, the students chose friendship as the theme for their artwork. “Following much discussion on what they wanted to say with their art, students thought it would be important to remind each other to be kind and friendly,” said art teacher Bethany Fisher, who organized the project with the students. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=426 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT Members of the Islip High School Catapult team, led by coach Ken Phalen, took first place at this year’s 7th Annual Long Island Championship Pumpkin Fling. The Fling is an annual event sponsored by the Cornell University Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County and held at the Suffolk County Farm in Yaphank, NY. It is an opportunity for science and engineering students to design, build and operate a sophisticated mechanical device. Teams come from all over Long Island to compete. The Buccaneer Catapult team, using their brand-new homemade catapult, the Jack-O-Splatter 3, took first for the fourth year in a row. “We certainly impressed people with our machine,” said Mr. Phalen. “The new machine is better in certain aspects; it is stronger, has a longer arm, and has more firepower than we have had in the past.” In addition to winning the first-place trophy, the team was also awarded the perpetual trophy, which is considered the “Stanley Cup” of pumpkin flinging. In addition, the team traveled to Delaware where they competed in the World Championship Punkin Chunkin competition. They were the only team representing New York. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=427 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT As part of its Red Ribbon Week celebration, the students at Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School in Islip learned to make good and healthy choices. In their physical education classes, the students worked with retired gym teacher Jon Norberg and his “Healthy Lifestyles for Kids” program by participating in numerous activities that promote a healthy mind and body. Students tested their cardiovascular health by running against the clock and racing against each other on scooters, tested their hand-eye coordination by participating in archery, and tried their hand at puzzles to work their mind. Following the workshops in the gym, students ventured outside and tied individual red ribbons around a bush in front of the school to signify their drug-free lifestyles. The United States Congress created Red Ribbon Week in 1988 to help spread the message about the dangers of drug use. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=428 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT Continuing a more than ten-year tradition, members of the Islip Elks Club, Lodge #2533, recently donated “A Student’s Dictionary” to every third grader in the Islip School District. Students at Commack Road Elementary School and Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School will be able to expand their personal libraries, as well as utilize these dictionaries throughout their school career. Pictured left to right (back row) are Islip Elks members Norman Newkirk and Bruce Trezise, Maud S. Sherwood third-grade teacher Jackie Solieri and Principal Vince Veglia; (front row) third-grade students Courtney Feil, Joel Mathew, Jake Vitale, and Brittany Larrea. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=394 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT On October 20, the Girls Varsity Volleyball team from Islip High School, coached by Trisha Tramaglini, hosted a special volleyball game that served to raise money for breast cancer awareness. This national event is sponsored by the Side-Out Foundation to educate the public about breast cancer and to help eradicate this illness. The volleyball players raised more than $2,000 through donations, a bake sale, and a raffle. Prior to the event, the team members hung banners promoting the event and worked with local businesses to secure gift cards and baskets to be used in the raffle. Players from the junior varsity team assisted the varsity members and parent volunteer Linda Chappas was instrumental in organizing the event. During the “Dig Pink” game, the Lady Bucs beat Huntington High School. The team would also like to thank the following families and local businesses for their help and donations: Beauty Supply and Cutting Room, Caroline’s Flower Shop, Chili’s, Cookie Factory, Dr. Raymond Mascolo, Flowers by Chazz, Fire Island Ferries, Hardware Store, Islip Cleaners, Islip Country Deli, Islip Drug Store, Islip Shoe Repair, Islip Stationary Store, JMJ Hair Studio, J & R Steak House, Kitchen Cabaret, Mitsui, New Babi Nails, Nook and Cranny, Tammy’s Nails, Oconee East Diner, The Lemon Tree, True Value Hardware, Spa 84, Stanley’s Bakery, Starbucks, Sunrise Bagel, Super Cuts, Vitagliango Orthodontics, Willie Nilly, and the Biasi, Carney, Chappas, Crudele, Juengerkes, Killeeen, and Ohlmiller families. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=395 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT For the second consecutive year, the Islip High School Science Olympiad Team competed in and won the Freeport/Baldwin Elks Cardboard Boat Regatta. After their victory last year, the team was placed in the Adult Division, where they beat two dozen other teams. The challenge of the design was to build a human-powered boat made from corrugated cardboard and duct tape which is capable of completing one trip around a 200-yard course with people inside it. The purpose of the race is to give students the opportunity to put theory into practice, based on the principles of water displacement, buoyancy, and floation. “The students learn to solve problems, figure out how to get things built, and at the same time have great fun doing it,” said Science Olympiad coach Ken Phalen. “I am very proud of their accomplishment and how they all worked together.” The project was a true community effort: the team received assistance from Loews in the form of cardboard, Pat's Carpet on Saxon Ave. donated carpet tubing, and the Islip Elks Lodge members that donated $100 to cover the cost of entry fees and purchase some additional supplies. Due to the community support and a high degree of interest from the students, Islip was able to field two teams in the competition. Congratulations to the following students: Mike Phalen, Will Barsalona, Dave Uher, Eric Purchaki, Elyssa Sapia, Lauren Hallal, Kiersten Lavery, Samantha Rodriguez, Nicole Needrith, Dan Eichner, Kevin Dinh. Karen Gambina, and Sonia Niazi http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=396 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT Mother Nature’s frigid temperatures couldn’t put a damper on Homecoming 2009. School spirit and community pride were at an all-time high with crowds of students, parents, alumni and residents coming together to show their Islip Pride. Community residents lined Main Street and cheered as the Homecoming Parade passed through town, featuring handmade floats designed by students, showcasing their class spirit and creativity. High School students in each grade level aimed to outdo their competition for best float. The excitement continued as the stands overlooking the football field were filled with fans eager to cheer on their Buccaneers. They were not to be disappointed. The Rocky Point Eagles proved to be no match for the hometown Bucs. As the crowd, wearing their Islip colors, kept the energy level high, the Bucs were the first to score and ended the game victorious over the Eagles with a final score of 42-14. The action-packed first and second quarters led to halftime festivities that included exciting performances by the marching band, varsity cheerleaders and kickline. Billy Lackner and Gia Ianaconi were crowned 2009 Homecoming King and Queen, respectively. Homecoming 2009 was a day to remember, marked by fun and festivities and a strong sense of community pride. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=397 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT Islip High School senior Samantha Rodriguez was selected by the College Board’s National Hispanic Recognition Program (NHRP), which honors high-achieving students who identify themselves as Hispanic on the PSAT/NMSQT exams. The NHRP acknowledges approximately 5,000 students nationwide each year. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=398 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT Four students from Islip Middle School - Taryn Denis (Flute), Kristen Freriks (Clarinet), Kristen Warnokowski (Trumpet) and Ethan Fields (French Horn) – were chosen by Middle School Band Director Allison Jeanes for their outstanding musicianship and dedication to participate in the Hofstra University Middle School Honors Band Festival. On October 23, 290 seventh graders from across Long Island will join the 110 players of the Hofstra University Symphonic Band and take the stage of the Hofstra University Arena for the Hofstra University Middle School Honors Band Festival. The performance will feature the work of world-renowned composer and guest conductor Robert W. Smith, one of the most-performed composers of band music in the world today. This event is designed to enhance the education and development of young band performers, while at the same time rewarding their past accomplishments. The final concert of the festival will be held at the Hofstra University Arena on Friday, October 23rd at 8pm. The concert is open to the public and free of charge. Pictured left to right: Islip Middle School Band Director Allison Jeanes, Ethan Fields, Taryn Denis, Kristen Warnokowski, and Kristen Freriks. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=399 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Islip School District is proud to announce that two talented student musicians have been selected to perform in the prestigious New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) All-State concerts. Senior Gregory Antonelli was accepted as both a String Orchestra and Jazz bass player and has accepted a spot playing Jazz bass. He is one of only two players selected for this honor from all of New York State. Senior Toni Ann Fanizzi was one of only a handful of choral students to be selected as a Jazz alto vocalist, she was also selected as an alternate for flute. Alex Masone was selected as an alternate on Jazz drum set. This is a highly competitive area in which only two players are selected each year. Alternates must perform perfectly at a NYSSMA Solo Festival to be considered. The NYSSMA Instrumental and Vocal Jazz Ensembles will perform at the NYSSMA Winter Conference in Rochester on Saturday, December 5th. They will perform again at NYSSMA Day in Albany on March 1, 2010. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=340 Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT Five student-musicians at Islip High School have been selected for the 2009 High School All-County Music Festival. Students are selected based on outstanding performances they gave at the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) Solo and Ensemble Festival in Spring 2009. High School senior Toni Ann Fanizzi will play the flute in the All-County Band, while senior Greg Antonelli was selected to perform double bass with the All-County Orchestra. Juniors Joel Najarro (tenor 2), Staci Palacino (alto 1), and Casey Richards (alto 1) were selected to sing in the All-County Choruses. The High School All-County Festival is sponsored by The Suffolk Chapter of the New York State Council of Administrators of Music Education (NYSCAME.) The 2009 High School All-County Music Festival Concert will be held on Friday, November 20 at 8pm at Hauppauge High School. Their music teachers, Steve Campanella, Zachary Butterfield, and Richard Harris, who direct the band, orchestra, and chorus, respectively, will prepare the students. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=342 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT The College Board, in recognition of their exceptional achievement on the college-level Advanced Placement Program (AP) Exams, recently announced that 43 students at Islip High School have earned the designation of AP Scholar. The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program provides motivated and academically prepared students with the opportunity to take rigorous college-level courses while still in high school, and to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both for successful performance on the AP Exams. About 18 percent of the nearly 1.7 million students worldwide who took AP Exams performed at a sufficiently high level to also earn an AP Scholar Award. Students took AP Exams in May 2009 after completing challenging college-level courses at their high schools. The College Board recently recognized several levels of achievement based on student performance on AP exams: AP Scholars, AP Scholars with Honor, and AP Scholars with Distinction. AP Scholars with Distinction - Graduating Class of 2010: Karen Gambina AP Scholars with Honor - Graduating Class of 2010: Kaber Karimi, Robert Lycke, and Samantha Rodriguez AP Scholars - Graduating Class of 2010: Gregory Antonelli, Jason Balsamo-Perez, Emilie Bui, Alexa Capuano, Deborah Schram, and Daniel Wexler AP Scholars with Distinction - Graduating Class of 2009: Michael Fahner, Evan Freiler, Alexandra Garcia, Subashiny Gengatharan, Ryan McKenna, Christina Rodriguez, and Natalie Sliwowski AP Scholars with Honor - Graduating Class of 2009: Justin Appold, Deanna Bosche, Andrea LaRosa, Jaclyn Ruggierello, and Mallorie Stanzione Advanced Placement Scholars - Graduating Class of 2009: Amelia DiPalma, Augusta Falleta, Sean Feminella, Kurt Goess, Chelsea Haedrich, Jonathan Hermann, Nicholas Lambiase, Daniel Lyons, Maria Marmolejo, Brian Papszycki, Sarah Percesepe, Aimee Pomeroy, Erin Riordan, Samantha Rodriguez, Katherine Romano, Kelly Schlittenhardt, Andrew Schweizer, Jared Smith, Mathue Tompkins, Kellyn Tramposch, Carolyn Vaeth, and Nicolas Villani http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=343 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT To welcome the students back to school and encourage school spirit, Commack Road Elementary School in Islip held its first School Spirit Friday and Town Meeting of the year. With students and staff dressed in purple and gold and a few wearing “yes at CRES” t-shirts, they gathered on the field, talked about the monthly character trait of respect, and introduced all the classes, teachers, and staff members. “We want to encourage and promote a respect and love of the community,” said principal Jeannette Feminella. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=344 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT Administrators, staff, and students from the Student Government and Student Union at Islip High School welcomed their incoming freshman class with an orientation program designed to familiarize the new students with the building and their schedules. High School Principal Dr. Eileen Rossman welcomed the new students by explaining to them the differences from the middle school. “At the high school, we will treat you as young adults and give you greater responsibility. With that greater responsibility, we will expect you to step up to the plate. Four years fly by quickly – we want you to enjoy yourself and do well.” Assistant Principals Curtis Juengerkes and Peter Pramataris, Director of Guidance Marcie Garmendia and other members of the staff also welcomed the students and reviewed the rules and regulations of the building, as well as encouraged the students to get involved in clubs, sports, and music. Following their welcome, the student volunteers provided a guided tour of the building for the incoming freshmen. In addition to the tour, the students were given their agenda books and schedules for the upcoming school year. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=345 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT Students in Sarah O’Rourke’s photography and studio art classes at Islip High School commemorated the National Day of Remembrance on September 11 by appropriating an image. In visual arts, the term appropriation refers to the use of borrowed elements in the creation of a new work. The students took photographs taken by everyday citizens on 9/11/01 and hand-colored the photos to showcase their feelings and those of the photo. The students utilized numerous different art tools to create their pieces, including watercolor paints, colored pencils, and artist markers. “Today is a day to remember and honor those who gave their lives on September 11, 2001,” said Ms. O’Rourke. “I wanted to give the students an opportunity to express their feelings in an artistic way.” http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=346 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT Islip High School Graduates 227 Seniors On Thursday, June 25, Islip High School’s seniors gathered for the last time as a class to receive their diplomas, say goodbye, and start a new chapter in their lives. Proudly marching to the traditional “Pomp and Circumstance” into the district’s 86th Annual Commencement Exercises, students were smiling proudly in front of families, friends, relatives, Board of Education members, administrators, and teachers. Following a beautiful rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner” by senior members of Swing, High School Principal Dr. Eileen Rossman had the pleasure of introducing the more than 50 members of the Class of 1959 who returned for their 50th Class Reunion. The student’s continued to wear their smiles proudly as they listened to the inspiring and encouraging words of Dr. Rossman, Board of Education President Catherine Romano, Superintendent of Schools Susan Schnebel, Valedictorian Evan Freiler, and Salutatorian Ryan McKenna. The smiles turned to laughter and dancing as the Senior Choral Ensemble sang a show stopping rendition of Journey’s hit song “Don’t Stop Believen.” “I can say without hesitation I am privileged to be here among these outstanding students,” said Mrs. Schnebel. “Love what you do and get at it. Recognize opportunities and don’t let them get away.” And in her final words of advice to the Class of 2009 Mrs. Schnebel told the students “don’t be a noun, be an adjective.” Added Valedictorian Evan Freiler, “We believe in ourselves and we know we can change the world…Let’s do it. Let’s show the word we come from good stock. Let’s take what we know and forge ahead!” After members of the Board of Education conferred the last diploma, Dr. Rossman presented the Class of 2009 and the elated graduates tossed their caps into the air while the cheers of family and friends could be heard in the background. For many, the festivities continued well into the evening as Islip’s most recent crop of graduates celebrated what is certain to be a bright future. Fast Facts on the Class of 2009 277 High School Graduates 270 Graduating with a Regents Diploma 108 Graduating with an Advanced Regents Diploma 96% Will Attend Higher Education 4 Students Entering the Military http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=268 Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT More than 100 students in grades 6, 7, and 8 at Islip Middle School participated in a beautification project for the Town of Islip. Working with art teacher Laura Vogelsburg, the students designed and painted trashcans that will be placed around the town, on beaches, at the marina, and at Town hall. Throughout the year, the middle school students have taken pride in their town by participating in numerous community service activities. In addition to the trashcan beautification project, the students also fundraised for, designed, built, and donated two benches to the Town that are now located at Brookwood Hall. Photo provided by Town of Islip. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=269 Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT Kindergarteners and first graders at Wing Elementary School know the importance of preserving our environment. To demonstrate their knowledge and get the word out to the general project, the students, with the assistance of art teacher Mandy Stephenson created posters for Keep Islip Clean (KIC) illustrating the slogan “Litter Bugs Don’t Get Hugs.” To thank the students for their participation, members of KIC and the Islip Town Board presented the school with a certificate. Presenting the certificate were the following members of the Islip Town Board members: Gene Parrington, Steven Flotteron, and Chris Bodkin, Supervisor Phil Nolan, Nancy Cochran, Director of KIC, and Kay Erwood, KIC Commissioner. The students pictured are: Angelica Garay, Amanda Bucco, Alexa Cangemi, David Zheng, and Oscar Benitez. Also pictured are Diane Druckman, Wing Principal, and Susan Schnebel, Superintendent of Islip Schools. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=270 Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT On June 11th, members of the Commack Road Elementary School Drama Club students put on a wonderful production of “Through the Looking Glass” by Lewis Carroll. “The students worked so hard all year long memorizing lines, learning choreography, and new songs,” said advisor Debra Austin. “It was incredible to see some of the shy students being able to perform on stage. It undoubtedly boosted their self-esteem.” http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=271 Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Islip School District extends its best wishes to the 2008-2009 staff retirees. These individuals have all exhibited much dedication to the students and their education, and they will be greatly missed. Douglas Bandura William Evert Alfred Loreto Karen Mollenhauer Paulette Prisco-Sosa Pauline Slowey George Sullo http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=272 Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT At the June 17 Board of Education meeting, students in the EXCEL program were honored with Excellence in Education awards for their participation in many regional and state competitions, such as Future City, Long Island Challenge, and Science Olympiad. Congratulations to: Kids Philosophy Kylie Ohlmiller Scholastic Book – Kids are Authors Kylie Ohlmiller Bryan Ramirez Fiona Redmond Triple C Awards Olivia Carroll Bryan Ramirez Johns Hopkins CTY Talent Search Michael Barsalona Anna Israelian Ryan Keller Bryan Ramirez Fiona Redmond Lauren Sparks Rosemary Turner Rena Yuan NYU Polytechnic Principal’s Scholar Gregory Antonelli William Barsalona Emilie Bui Daniel Wexler Junior National Young Leader Ethan Fields Kylie Ohlmiller Anna Israelian Gabriella Rocco Madison Schaefer Trevor Uher Long Island Challenge Gregory Antonelli William Barsalona Emilie Bui Daniel Wexler Future City Competition Michael Barsalona Olivia Carroll Anna Israelian Ryan Keller Natalie Oscher Gabriella Rocco Robert Rotolo Madison Schaefer Lauren Sparks Rosemary Turner Science Olympiad Competition Elizabeth Antonelli Michael Barsalona David Currea Theresa Colonna Julia Donahue Brian Eichner Charles LaRosa Kylie Ohlmiller Tori Panopoulous Benjamin Pfuhl Bryan Ramirez Fiona Redmond Ray Smith Steven Verdile Rena Yuan Brookhaven National Laboratory Open Space Stewardship Program Olivia Carroll Anna Israelian Charles LaRosa Natalie Oscher Benjamin Pfuhl Bryan Ramirez Fiona Redmond Gabriella Rocco Madison Schaefer Ray Smith Lauren Sparks Rena Yuan http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=273 Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT Through the popular children’s story Goldilocks and the Three Bears, fifth-grade students in Steven Kunsch’s and Dawn Oliveri’s classes at Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School in Islip held a mock trial to learn about the criminal justice system, as well as to work on their public speaking and express their creativity. Dressed in costume, students played the role of witnesses, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and jurors to determine the guilt or innocence of Goldilocks for breaking into the three bears’ home. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=236 Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT Nine Wing Elementary School staff members in the Islip School District were recognized by the Board of Education at the May 20 meeting for their extraordinary years of service to the district. Employees who have been with the district for 10, 15, 20, and 25 years received a certificate presented by Superintendent of Schools Susan A. Schnebel. The following individuals were honored: Ten Years Valerie Cordara Laura Schuman Kathleen Bonett 15 Years Donna Golofaro Lisa Dieumegard Patricia Rogers 20 Years Steve Saidler 25 Years Sue Guinta Lori Murphy http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=237 Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT Julia Johnson, the EXCEL teacher for the Islip School District, was the recipient of this year’s ISTE “Making It Happen” award at the Eastern Suffolk BOCES Model Schools Programs Celebration of Technology in Education. ISTE is the International Society for Technology in Education, a non-profit organization that recognizes teachers that exemplify 21st Century learning. Teachers are nominated and reviewed by a committee using strict criteria. Julia was nominated this year for her projects with the EXCEL program and for her other outstanding technology-integrated lessons. In a letter announcing her award, Julia was commended for her continued dedication to forward-thinking projects and lessons, which serve as an inspiration and an example to teachers everywhere. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=238 Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT Students enrolled in the science research class at Islip High School presented their personal research projects to the public during the school’s annual Science Research Symposium. The students, who have presented their research at the Long Island Science Congress, New York Science and Engineering Fair, and the Nassau Community College Honors Science Fair, conducted projects on topics including “Gender and Its Influence on the Effects of Praise of Intelligence and Praise of Effort” to “Addiction: Identifying Factors that Contribute to Relapse.” At this year’s Symposium, as a special treat, famed paleontologist Tyler Lyson was the keynote speaker. Mr. Lyson, who at the age of 16 discovered the Dakota dinosaur specimen, spoke to the students about The Dakota Dinomummy. The find was unique, since the fossilized remains included skin and other soft tissues in a noncollapsed state. Mr. Lyson also spent time reviewing the projects on display and discussing the findings with the students. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=239 Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT Throughout the school year, students in Patricia Austin’s second-grade class at Commack Road Elementary School in Islip have been communicating through written letters with second graders in Mary Bauernfeind’s class at Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School, also in Islip. Throughout the year the students shared what they did on holidays and vacations, activities they enjoyed, and their favorite things. To culminate the pen-pal program, the students from Commack Road visited the Sherwood students, where they were able to meet face-to-face, some for the first time and others reconnecting following their time at Wing Elementary School. During the visit, the students participated in games and an indoor picnic. Mrs. Austin and Mrs. Bauernfeind’s classes have been pen pals for more than ten years. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=240 Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT In preparation of Earth Day and to help students feel a sense of community, various school clubs at Islip Middle School fundraised and built two benches that were presented to the Town of Islip. Through the organization of the Student Council and its advisors Marie Manzari and Shari Pennington, and with the help of technology teacher John Wenzel’s classes, the middle school students were part of the entire bench building process from fundraising to planning to construction. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=196 Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT On May 11, members of the Wing Elementary School community in Islip honored the memory and volunteer achievements of Julie Aubel. Due to the efforts of fellow PTA mom Andrea Wexler, a pink weeping cherry tree was planted in the front of the school in remembrance of Julie, who lost her long battle with cancer in November 2008. “Today is to honor Julie and to show how much we loved, respected, and appreciated her,” said Ms. Wexler. Added Wing Principal Diane Druckman, “This is truly a celebration of Julie. She was a magnificent lady.” Throughout the 30-minute ceremony those in attendance wore pink ribbons in her honor, while she was remembered as a wonderful and caring mother, wife, sister, daughter, and friend. She will be fondly remembered for her devotion, skills, high energy, artistic flair, sense of humor and smiles. Julie was president of the PTA for both the Wing building and Sherwood Elementary School. She served as PTA Council President for the 2005-2006 and 2006-2007 school years. She was on both Standards of Excellence Committees at the building and district levels. As president, she supported her committee chairs for the various events that were presented to the children of Islip. “It is the most wonderful thing I can imagine,” said her sister Lisa Maher about the memorial tree. “It is a wonderful honor. It meant a lot to her how this community came through for her and gave her strength through her battle. Even now, with this tree planting they’re still coming through for her.” Julie is survived by her husband, John, and their two children, Johnny and Leslie, as well as her mother, Julia Murphy, and sisters Lisa Maher and Anita Secaira and their families. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=197 Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT To celebrate mothers and everything they do, the second-grade students in Patricia Austin’s class at Commack Road Elementary School hosted the second annual “Moms and Muffins” event. During the celebration, students sang Steven Curtis Chapman’s song “One Little Heartbeat at a Time,” enjoyed one-on-one time with their mothers, and shared their “Ten Things I Know About My Mother” projects. The “Ten Things” project came from the students reading the story “About Winn Dixie.” In the story, the main character, who is being raised by her father, asks that her father tell her ten things about her mother on her tenth birthday. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=198 Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT Islip High School Students Celebrate Earth Week To celebrate Earth Week, approximately 60 students from Islip High School’s Keeping Islip Clean (KIC) club, along with parents, alumni, and community volunteers, spent time making improvements to the courtyard classroom at the high school. The students upgraded flower beds and installed a new filtration system in the pond, as well as built a bridge, added additional benches that when put together fold into tables used for studying, and created vegetable and floating gardens. In addition to upgrading the courtyard classroom, the students cleaned Pardee's Pond, which is located across from the high school, by removing trash and easing the amount of runoff and pollution that enters the area. “Education doesn’t just happen in a classroom,” said Wayne Mennecke, science teacher and KIC advisor. “What the students are doing today is fantastic.” To help offset the costs of the project, KIC received a $3,000 grant from Lowes in Bay Shore. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=199 Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT As a part of the fifth-grade social studies curriculum and as an extension of the Latin America unit, the fifth graders at Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School in Islip celebrated Cinco de Mayo. During the celebration, which was a joint collaboration between the fifth-grade parents and teachers, the students ate an authentic Mexican meal, catered by Bubba’s Burrito Bar, participated in a Spanish sing-along, and played Spanish BINGO. “We’re celebrating Cinco de Mayo because the Mexicans beat the French in the Battle of Pueblo,” stated fifth grader Nick Menechino. Added Frank Potente-Horton, “My favorite part of today is learning about the Mexican culture and Spanish words!” As a special treat, each student received a sombrero as a souvenir. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=200 Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Islip School District Board of Education, administration, staff and invited guests gathered in the Commack Road Elementary School auditorium to express their appreciation and congratulations to their colleagues who have reached a milestone in their careers as educators. Their professionalism and commitment have played a significant role in creating the foundation for student achievement and community pride in the Islip School District. Congratulations to the following Commack Road employees: 10 Years: Pam Kornhauser Debra Hayden Kerri Paciulli Debra Sweeney 15 Years Melissa Clehane 20 Years Elizabeth Johnson Kathi Merlino Valerie Rivera 25 Years Rose McSweeney http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=201 Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT Members in the fifth-grade EXCEL program in the Islip School District recently took to the stage to read their original transcendentalist poetry during the performance “Transcending Intellect Through Music and Poetry.” Organized by EXCEL teacher Julia Johnson the students read their poetry aloud to parents and friends, accompanied by custodial engineer Kyle Waring performing original pianist compositions. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=202 Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT Islip Middle School seventh-grade students Bryan Ramirez and Adrianna Bridgeman were chosen to present their hovercraft project, which was created during participation in the STEP Program at NYIT, at the 2nd Annual METRO New York State Computer Association of Technology Educators (NYSCATE) conference in Ryebrook, New York. Only nine students in the state were chosen to present their projects to educational technology teachers and administrators. The NYSCATE conference is used to share best practices in the area of Educational Technology with teachers and administrators all over the state. In addition to presenting, Bryan and Adrianna had an opportunity to speak with other students around Long Island about their participation and research experience. The STEP (Science and Technology Entry Program) program is funded by a grant through a NY State Education Department grant, run by NYIT college for the purpose of motivating and better preparing students for college and future careers in the areas of Mathematics and Science. Pictured left to right: Islip Middle School Technology teacher John Wenzel and seventh graders Adrianna Bridgeman and Bryan Ramirez. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=203 Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT Mike Nelson, a senior at Islip High School, recently placed third in the senior division of the Nassau County Community College Science Fair. Mike's Project: “Amateur Guided Rocketry Using the BS2SX-1C-M Basic Stamp” is attempting to reduce the cost of experimental rocketry in general, by providing a small scale model that can be readily converted to larger equipment. He won this award using computer-generated data, but plans to physically launch his rocket this spring. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=170 Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT On Saturday, February 28, ten fifth-grade students from the Commack Road Elementary School in Islip participated in a floor hockey tournament sponsored by the New York Islanders I.S.L.E. Program at Nassau Coliseum. The students, who were accompanied by their physical education teachers, Jason Orlick and Carrie Rittberg, participated in a "round robin" hockey tournament with the opportunity to play four games against other elementary schools across Long Island. Following the tournament, all students received tickets to attend the NY Islanders versus Buffalo Sabers ice hockey game that followed. The New York Islanders I.S.L.E. Program provided the Commack Road Elementary School with four sets of hockey equipment at no charge, with hopes of promoting the sport of floor hockey in the physical education curriculum. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=171 Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT Dressed as rabbits, butterflies, frogs, trolls, and villagers, the fifth-grade students in Beth Fazio’s class at Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School in Islip, along with Stacey Cumming’s second graders, performed an entertaining version of “Three Nanny Goats Gruff” for parents, family members, and fellow classmates. Working together throughout the year as buddy classes, the students sang songs, performed choreography, and immersed themselves into their characters. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172 Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT Fifth-grade students in Helen MacDonald’s class at Commack Road Elementary School in Islip recently participated in an in-school field trip. A presenter from the Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary & Audubon Center in Oyster Bay visited the students with a falcon, hawk, and screech owl as the culminating activity on a unit about owls. Students had read the novel Owls In the Family by Farley Mowat, and with the in-class field trip were able to learn firsthand knowledge about owls and their habitats. The unit was arranged by Mrs. MacDonald’s student teacher, Michael Levine. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=173 Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT To celebrate clean living and being healthy, the students at Wing Elementary School in Islip participated in Arbor Day activities, as well as a Wellness Walk. First, to celebrate Arbor Day, students and teachers helped plant a Thundercloud Purple Leaf Plum tree by pouring cups of soil into the hole around the tree. Following the planting of the tree, the classes moved on to the Wellness Walk, where they were led by physical education teachers Brian Bauernfeind and Greg Dini, around the building, stopping along the way to read signs about wellness and being healthy and to complete various exercises, such as squats and jumping jacks. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=174 Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT Islip High School theater students performed four shows over three days of the popular musical Grease. Grease is a tale of teenage rebellion, love, friendship, and coming of age, set in the 1950s. The musical, which was presented by the Fine and Performing Arts Department, is based on the stage musical created by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey and was directed by Steve McCoy and included support from Musical Director Rich Harris Jr. and Executive Producer John Gallarello. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175 Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Islip School District Board of Education, administration, staff and invited guests gathered to express their appreciation and congratulations to their colleagues who have reached a milestone in their careers as educators. Their professionalism and commitment have played a significant role in creating the foundation for student achievement and community pride in the Islip School District. Congratulations to the following: 10 Years: Pam Kornhauser Debra Hayden Kerri Paciulli Debra Sweeney 15 Years Melissa Clehane 20 Years Elizabeth Johnson Kathi Merlino Valerie Rivera 25 Years Rose McSweeney http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=176 Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT On Friday, April 17, more than 100 seventh-grade students from Islip Middle School had the opportunity to get up close and personal with their local congressman. Congressman Peter King visited the students due to the efforts of social studies teacher Joe Lemke, who met the congressman when he, along with Middle School Principal Timothy Martin and other staff members, were invited to his Washington, D.C. office when the school was recognized as a “School to Watch.” During his hour-long visit with the students, Congressman King spoke about what his job entails and answered questions from the students, with topics ranging from how many presidents he has met to how he remains in touch with problems in Islip when he’s in Washington. To prepare for the event, the seventh graders explored the history of the House of Representatives and responsibilities of a congressman. The students also conducted Internet research to examine Congressman King’s background and positions on the issues. As a follow-up to the visit, the students shared their reactions to the event, highlighting the most memorable lesson learned. The students also debated the issues that Congressman King presented. “I was truly moved by the students' maturity and enthusiasm toward the event,” said Mr. Lemke. “They clearly recognized and appreciated this unique learning opportunity and went the distance with it.” http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177 Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT To celebrate Foreign Language Week, students at Islip High School traveled to Islip Middle School and participated in an Immersion Day event. To practice their Spanish and Italian language skills, more than 70 high school students set up a marketplace at the middle school selling goods, such as necklaces, key chains, and food, played games, including Sillas Musicales (musical chairs), UNO, and checkers, and taught the seventh-grade students authentic cultural dances. “The goal of the program is to function throughout the entire day without speaking a word of English,” stated Pauline Slowey, Chairperson of the Foreign Language Department at the high school. To prepare for the event at the middle school, students translated common phrases used at the marketplace to help buy the goods and services being offered. Photo Caption: Islip High School students play the card game UNO in Spanish with students at the middle school during Immersion Day. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=141 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT More than 75 students in the Maud S. Sherwood Character Education Club in the Islip School District helped coordinate and publicize “Buy a Hat to Wear a Hat” day. With the help of their fellow classmates and teachers, the Club sold paper baseball hats and raised more than $720 to benefit the National Alopecia Areata Foundation in the name of their classmate, Madison Urraro, who lives with the disease. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune skin disease, which results in the loss of hair on the scalp and elsewhere on the body. Leading up to “Buy a Hat to Wear a Hat” day, school social worker Trisha Tramaglini, who also serves as the Character Education Club advisor, taught the students about the disease and encouraged awareness and respect of one another’s differences. Pictured: (sitting) Kerri McDonald; (kneeling left to right) Mary O’Hara and Jillian Graffagnio; (standing left to right) Lauren Edwards, Madison Urraro, and Maria Fitzgerald. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=142 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT To kickoff its Parents as Reading Partners (PARP) Program, Wing Elementary School hosted its first Author and Illustrator Night. Sponsored by the PTA and organized by Reading teachers Janine Falanga and Susan Wildenauer, students, parents, and teachers enjoyed more than 30 local authors and illustrators as they spoke about the process of writing a children’s book, autographed their own books, and promoted literacy. “Students were very excited to interact with the authors and illustrators, which was evident by the bright smiles on their faces,” stated Ms. Falanga. PARP features three weeks of activities, both in school and at home, designed to encourage parents or other family members to become active reading partners with their child or family member. Pictured: Children’s book author Brian Heinz autographs a copy of his book Kayuktuk for Wing student Liam Colotti. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=143 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Islip Board of Education recently accepted a generous donation of more than $500 from Brookwoods Restaurant and Lounge co-proprietors Marie Bello and Glenn Alba. As a way of showing their appreciation to their dining guests, patrons of the restaurant have the opportunity to select a school district or charity within the Town of Islip and a donation will made as a way of helping the children in the community. “On behalf of the children, thank you so much for your generous donation,” stated Superintendent of Schools Susan Schnebel. “We appreciate your commitment to our students and the community.” The donation will be deposited in the Islip High School Student Activity Account to benefit the Vocal Music Organization. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=144 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT To celebrate the completion of their NYS Mathematics Assessments, fifth-grade students at Commack Road Elementary School in the Islip School District held a Mexican Fiesta. During the Fiesta, students enjoyed authentic cuisine from California Cactus, played a game of Loteria (BINGO), and the students in Valerie Rivera’s class performed LaRaspa, also known as the Mexican Hat Dance. Prior to the Mexican Fiesta, students had been studying Latin America as part of their Social Studies curriculum. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=145 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Islip School District Board of Education, administration, staff and invited guests gathered to express their appreciation and congratulations to their colleagues who have reached a milestone in their careers as educators. Their professionalism and commitment have played a significant role in creating the foundation for student achievement and community pride in the Islip School District. Congratulations to the following: 10 Years: Tim Brush, Mary Carroll, David Claps, Elizabeth Hicks, Beth Mathew, Erica Rinear, Jason Vitale, Laura Vogelsberg, Loretta Salzman, Christine Ayala, Anna Ferrara, David Conde 15 Years: Marie Manzari, Dorothy Moore, Rosemarie Kass, Carol Trinceri 20 Years: Terry Steinbrecher, Gerry Burnell, Gail Waters, Anna Zotto 30 Years: Ellie Tomlinson 35 Years: Robert O’Brien Special recognition and congratulations goes to Robert O’Brien upon his retirement. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=146 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT Continuing a five-year tradition, students at Commack Road Elementary School in the Islip School District traveled to Islip High School to put their creativity to good use and help the high school students create scenery for the upcoming musical production, Grease. Hosted by high school art teacher and art director of Grease Melissa Trocchio-Cohen and Commack Road art teacher Bethany Fisher, the Commack Road students spent an hour and a half one day after school painting the backdrop for the musical. “It’s more than just the experience of having the fifth graders work on the set,” said Mrs. Trocchio-Cohen. “It allows them the opportunity to interact with high school students and shows them the different opportunities for having a career in the art world.” Added Ms. Fisher, “It’s wonderful. The students love it and it gives them the chance to work on a big production before the Commack Road play, which is held in May.” http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=147 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT On Monday, February 2, the Islip Careers Department at Islip High School, in cooperation with the Mentoring Partnership of Long Island, sponsored a Ground Hog Job Shadow Day for 71 high school sophomores. Throughout the day, the students shadowed local professionals in various careers at Caroline’s Flower Shoppe, Chase Bank, Islip Middle School, Penn Van Meter Architects, Sew What’s New, Southside Hospital, and the Town of Islip. Prior to the day, students completed placement applications in order to allow them the best overall experience. Following their shadow day, students completed reflective activities and wrote thank you letters to their mentors. “It was a wonderful experience for all students and professionals who participated,” state Susan Riche, who helped organize the entire day. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=129 Tue, 03 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT In preparation of Earth Day and to help students feel a sense of community, various school clubs at Islip Middle School fundraised and built two benches that will be presented to the Town of Islip. Through the organization of the Student Council and its advisors Marie Manzari and Shari Pennington, and with the help of technology teacher John Wenzel’s classes, the middle school students were part of the entire bench building process from fundraising to planning to construction. “All students regardless of their role – either fundraising or building the benches are part of a cohesive “team” that is making an important contribution to their community,” stated Ms. Pennington, who also serves as the school’s social worker. “Once the benches are completed we’re going to give them to Brookwood Hall Park in East Islip,” stated eighth-grade Student Council member Mike Barraco. Added seventh-grade Student Council member Nikki Baldwin, “By building the benches we’re helping the environment and making the community nicer.” Town of Islip Supervisor Phil Nolan will honor the Islip Middle School students at a special ceremony for their various charitable donations throughout the year. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=130 Tue, 03 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT Recognizing the need to instill healthy habits in children at an early age, Wing Elementary School in the Islip School District held its annual PTA-sponsored Health and Safety Fair. For two days in March, the kindergarten and first-grade students received health tips such as proper nutrition, the importance of physical activity, and the correct way to brush their teeth from Good Samaritan Hospital nurses, nursing students from Suffolk County Community College, Great South Bay YMCA, West Islip Orthodontics, and Cornell Cooperative. Members of the Suffolk County Police Department, MTA Police Department, Suffolk County Department of Health, Girl Scouts, Poison Control, and Exchange Ambulance provided valuable knowledge on safety issues ranging from crossing the street to being aware of their surroundings. “Starting off with a strong foundation on health and safety will ensure the students’ well-being today and in the future,” stated PTA vice president and chair of the Health and Safety Committee Sarah Weber. Photo Caption A: Suffolk County Community College School of Nursing students perform health checkups on student teddy bears during the Wing Elementary School Health and Safety Fair to teach the importance of regular visits to their family doctor. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=131 Tue, 03 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT To encourage school spirit and friendly competition, Islip High School held its annual Spirit Week. Throughout the week, students in each class – freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors – participated in different activities ranging from pajama day, twin day, and jersey day, decorated the hallways in their class colors, and created murals around the theme of movie genres. The culminating event – Sports Night – featured five-minute skits performed by the classes, a best mural contest, boys and girls volleyball games, and class pride. “Spirit week is a great way to build and promote school spirit,” stated Student Union advisor Ann Gordon. “The students, and even the teachers and staff members, get really involved. It’s a great friendly rivalry between each grade.” Pictured left to right: Student Union advisor Ann Gordon, freshman Caitlin Murray, senior Alexandra Columbo, junior Lindsay Grilli, sophomore Steven Pham, and junior class advisor Kerri Schmalacker. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=132 Tue, 03 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School students in the Character Education Club wanted to spread some love through the community this past Valentine’s Day when they created handmade cards for seniors at the Little Flower Nursing Home in East Islip. With the help of their advisor, Trisha Tramaglini, the students put their creativity to work using heart-shaped cutouts, markers, and crayons to make their own Valentine’s Day creations. Inside each card was a special message to help put a smile on someone else’s face. “I like that we’re making someone happy,” exclaimed fifth-grade student Kristin Collins. Added fellow fifth grader Courtney Carroll, “It’s also fun.” Photo Caption: Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School fifth-grade students Kristin Collins and Courtney Carroll make Valentine’s Day cards for seniors at the Little Flower Nursing Home in East Islip. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=101 Fri, 13 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT The students in the Character Education Club at Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School in the Islip School District held its first project of the New Year. The students collected more than 450 cans of nonperishable food during their Souper Bowl, which was held throughout the month of January. The food was donated to PRONTO of Long Island, which services the Town of Islip and its surrounding communities. “The response to the Character Education Club has been amazing,” stated advisor Trisha Tramaglini. “The students are very eager and involved.” http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=102 Fri, 13 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT On February 12, the second-grade students in Elizabeth Johnson’s class at Commack Road Elementary School in Islip celebrated the 100th Day of School by participating in mathematical counting exercises, arts and crafts projects, and reading, all centered around the number 100. The students prepared for the day by creating original pieces of artwork using many tangible and edible items found throughout their houses and classrooms, read 100 books as a class, and made visors to wear on the day itself. With such a successful first 100 days, the students eagerly anticipate the remaining days of school http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=103 Fri, 13 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT Members of the Islip Middle School volleyball team raised more than $1,100 for the Islip Breast Cancer Coalition through the sale of pink awareness bracelets, handmade tie-dyed pink T-shirts, a bake sale, and participation in their version of the nationwide Dig Pink event. Dig Pink is a Breast Cancer Awareness event and fundraiser that both collegiate and high school teams participated in during the month of October. To thank the girls, Georgiana Crowley and Maryanne McGahey of the Islip Breast Cancer Coalition visited the team. “The money you generously donated will be used to help women in the township of Islip,” stated Ms. Crowley, President of the Coalition. “I think it is absolutely wonderful that you participated in this event.” Added AnnMarie Carbone, coach of the volleyball team, “It was such a tremendous effort. The whole school came together. We sold 220 shirts and there wasn't an empty seat in the gym during the game. It is definitely something that we’ll continue to participate in.” http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=104 Fri, 13 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT Second graders at Commack Road Elementary School in the Islip School District combined the 100th day of school celebration, which was held on February 12, and Valentine’s Day and put their writing and artistic abilities together. The students made 100 Valentine’s Day cards for 100 senior citizens and donated the cards to Maria Regina Residence in Brentwood. “The children loved the idea of reaching out to seniors who might be sick, lonely or just in need of a cheery note,” stated second-grade teacher Patricia Austin. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=105 Fri, 13 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT Ten Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School staff members were recognized by the Islip Board of Education at the January 21 meeting for their extraordinary years of service to the district. Employees who have been with the district for 10, 15, 20, and 30 years received a certificate presented by Board of Education Vice President Nelson Couvertier and Superintendent of Schools Susan A. Schnebel. “All of our recipients should be pleased and proud of their accomplishments,” stated Sherwood Principal Vince Veglia. With more than 150 years of cumulative service to the Islip School District, the following individuals were honored: Robin Bauer, Senior Stenographer Suzanne Cotter, Third-Grade Teacher Stacey Cummings, Second-Grade Teacher Joanne DeLuca, Receptionist Anne Knoth, Receptionist Ingrid Mileski, Third-Grade Teacher Patricia Quinones, Media Aide Matthew Senese, Fifth-Grade Teacher Jacqueline Solieri, Third-Grade Teacher http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=76 Tue, 27 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT Islip High School Receives $500 Grant from Allstate Islip High School received a $500 grant from Allstate Insurance Company’s Safe Teen Driving Program for the purpose of funding activism projects and programs that raise awareness of the need for safer teen driving. The High School will use the money to promote their 14-Campaign, which will get the word out to teens to make responsible driving decisions. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=77 Tue, 27 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT Seniors in Joan Ramsey’s Writers Ink Workshop at Islip High School recently participated in a cross-curricular assignment that blended English and hands-on learning. The students were assigned the task of writing a “How to” book on a subject they have an interest in or a skill that relates to their BOCES program. Students took the opportunity to not only write their “How to” book, but also demonstrated their skills in front of their classmates. Topics for the project ranged from “How to Cook Sausage and Peppers,” to “How to Correctly Apply Makeup.” http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=78 Tue, 27 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT Suffolk County Police Department Officer Nancy Neumann, from the Community Outreach Bureau in Yaphank, recently visited with students at Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School. She came as part of the PoliceSmart program, which replaced the DARE Program in Suffolk County. Originally only offered to fifth-grade students, the program now spans grades kindergarten through eight in the district. During the year, Officer Neumann will touch upon topics such as bullying, drugs, alcohol, and Internet safety across each of the grade levels. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=79 Tue, 27 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT At the January 21 Islip School District Board of Education meeting, Maud S. Sherwood second-grade teacher Robb LeViene and five of his students gave those in attendance “a brief glimpse in to the world of the second grade.” During the presentation, Mr. LeViene showcased a lesson on the Cycle of Life on his classroom’s Promethean Board – a global interactive whiteboard and learning response system – and its many features, such as the activotes, which students use to respond to questions and enabling the answers to be instantly viewed, shared and are analyzed on the board in easy-to-understand formats such as bar graphs and pie charts. “The boards are moving Islip forward and I am proud of the district for utilizing this technology,” said Mr. LeViene. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=80 Tue, 27 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT Islip students construct a model city, built to scale, using recycled materials Students in the Islip Middle School EXCEL program competed in the tri-state National Engineers Week Future City Regional Competition on January 24, where they placed second out of more than 45 teams. The competition is a national program sponsored by the engineering community to promote technological literacy and engineering to middle school students. The program fosters an interest in math, science, and engineering through hands-on, real-world applications. The students spent months constructing a model of their future city, built to scale, using recycled materials with a budget less than $100. In order to build their city, SunSand City, the students utilized SimCity 4 Deluxe software to create a city of the future which met criteria of enacting ordinances to benefit citizens, affordable tax rates, transportation, high life expectancy, low pollution and crime rate, and overall high-quality residential, commercial and industrial zones. In addition, students wrote a 500 word abstract about their city, composed a 700 word essay addressing the following theme: “Creating a self-sufficient system within the home which conserves, recycles and reuses all existing water sources,” delivered a five minute presentation to a panel of judges, and answered a variety of questions regarding various aspects of engineering. “Working with these students everyday and seeing evidence of their creativity, ingenuity, passion, intelligence and determination gives me comfort and confidence when pondering the future of our world,” stated EXCEL teacher Julia Johnson. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=81 Tue, 27 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT Graduates from Islip High School recently returned to their alma mater to share their college experiences with this year’s senior and freshmen classes. The College Life and College Prep programs are annual events organized by the school’s guidance department and invite recent graduates back to participate in small-group discussions pertaining to their life after high school, as well as the preparations leading up to high school graduation. A question-answer session among the students focused on pressing issues facing college freshmen. Topics discussed included if the graduate was attending their first-choice school, what didn’t your college tell you on your campus tour that you wished they did, the variety of clubs and activities available on the campuses, roommate issues, dorm life, time management, and safety on campus. “It is important that the junior and freshmen hear this information and advice directly from their peers,” stated Marisela Garmendia, Director of School Counseling. “They often believe them much easier than they believe most adults.” The panelists included graduates from the Class of 2008: Margaret Cassin (Bucknell University), Allison Coelho (UMASS Amherst), Nicholas Cooley (Seton Hall University), Mariakristina Eccleston (St. Joseph’s University), Amy Gordon (York College), Kaitlyn Griffin (Fashion Institute of Technology), Emily Kuhn (Indiana University), Caitlin Lauer (Millersville University), Katelyn Masone (Stevens Institute of Technology), Brittany Nicholich (University of Delaware), and Matt Rogers (New York University). http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=82 Tue, 27 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT Getting into the holiday spirit and teaching students the value of giving back, the students in Kathy Walsh’s kindergarten class at Wing Elementary School in Islip have collected more than 350 paperback books, which were donated to United States troops currently stationed abroad. To personalize the books and the experience of community service, the students designed and created bookmarks to send along with the paperbacks. The students also took the time to wrap the books for the soldiers. This is the second year that Mrs. Walsh has held a book drive. Captain John Cochrane of the United States Navy picked up the books and spoke to the children about the Middle East and answered their questions on such things as food, weather, and animals native to the territory. Following last year’s fundraiser, Captain Cochrane’s Navy ship was the recipient of the books, which they used to set up a library. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=71 Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT Second-grade students in Mary Bauernfeind’s class at Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School in the Islip School District continued a sweet holiday tradition this year. The students, along with parent volunteers, gathered together to put their artistic abilities to work as they constructed a large gingerbread house that will be donated to a local hospital, and individual houses to bring home and enjoy. Using their creativity and milk boxes as molds, students added graham crackers, candies, and icing to construct the delightfully delicious and sweet houses. A favorite activity for students and adults alike, the tradition began more than 12 years ago. “As I often say to the students, small hands do big things,” said Mrs. Bauernfeind. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=72 Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT The PTA at Commack Road Elementary School in the Islip School District recently sponsored a Giving Tree in time for the holiday season. The Giving Tree was a gift-giving event for local families in need, in which students and parents selected a tag from the tree and purchased the gift indicated on the tag. In December, the third-grade students also participated in the “Toys for Tots,” for which they held a bake sale; teachers used the almost $800 raised to purchase toys for the program. To celebrate the spirit of giving, the students paraded around the school building showcasing all of the wonderful items they were able to purchase through the bake sale money. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=73 Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT A combination of physical education achievement, solid academics, outstanding character, and leadership in a variety of activities has earned Islip High School seniors Ryan McKenna and Chelsea Haedrich awards from the Suffolk Zone of the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance. The Suffolk Zone honors only one senior male and female student from each high school. To be eligible, students must have earned at least a 90% average in physical education class and a minimum 3.0 overall grade point average in all classes prior to the senior year, demonstrate outstanding character, show leadership skills in both physical education class and general schoolwide activities, and serve as role models for other students. Ryan is a true leader in physical education class as he leads by example. Ryan is a four-year cross-country and track athlete who has maintained a 100.83% average that ranks him second in his class. He was a scholar-athlete award winner and captain of the cross-country team. Ryan will continue his education at Indiana University, Ithaca, Potsdam or Delaware University in the fall. Chelsea’s positive attitude in her physical education class is contagious to the rest of the students. Chelsea has maintained a 98% average while participating on the varsity tennis team for the past five seasons where she was an All-State Doubles player and an All-County Singles player. Chelsea will continue her education at the University of Virginia, Loyola or Fordham in the fall. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=74 Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT To promote community outreach, students from Islip Middle School visited the Little Flower Nursing Home and each adopted a senior. Twenty students from five different student organizations – Builders Club, Keep Islip Clean, I-TV, National Junior Honor Society, and Student Government – adopted a senior from the Cottage Club at Little Flower – all of who are living with dementia – and presented them with a baby doll. Baby dolls have proven to be very effective and beneficial to people with Alzheimer’s disease. “It’s very special that the kids would think to do something as special as this,” stated Little Flower owner and administrator Theresa Santmann. Organized by middle school social worker Shari Pennington, the student clubs worked together, coordinating various fundraisers in order to purchase the dolls for the seniors. “The recreational director had shared with the kids the therapeutic benefit that baby dolls provide for residents that suffer from memory loss, giving them the ability to cuddle, love and care for their baby,” said Ms. Pennington. Added sixth-grade student and Student Government representative John D’Ambrosio, “It feels really good to be able to do this for the seniors.” During their visit to Little Flower, the students also had the opportunity to spend time with the seniors and ask them questions about their lives. http://www.islipufsd.org/News/Story.aspx?id=75 Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT