The Islip Middle School Drama Club made a splash with a lively and heartwarming production of “High School Musical 2 Jr.” Audiences packed the school’s auditorium on June 6 and 7 for a summer-themed show full of catchy songs, energetic dancing and strong performances from the talented cast.

Under the direction of Taylor Duff, Sheila Montuori and Joelle Parent, the students brought the spirit of fictional East High to life, capturing the fun, energy and drama of summer at Lava Springs Country Club. From Troy and Gabriella’s heartfelt moments to Sharpay’s scheming and Ryan’s quest for the Star Dazzle Award, the show delivered laughs, music, dancing and memorable moments for all ages.

“Musical theater has a magical way of connecting kids who share the same passion,” Montuori said. “It is so special to witness new friendships and new talent develop under the lights.”

Date Added: 6/23/2025

Islip High School welcomed proud new members at this year’s honor society induction ceremony, held on May 21 in the school auditorium. Outstanding young scholars recited their pledges to join the Art Honor Society (17 students), English Honor Society (35 students), Math Honor Society (17 students), National Honor Society (79 students), Tri-M Honor Society (nine students), World Language Honor Society (eight students for Italian and 50 for Spanish), and, for the first time, the New York State Business and Marketing Honor Society (25 students).

After Class of 2025 valedictorian John Oggeri and salutatorian Ryder Miranda led the Pledge of Allegiance, Principal Dr. Lara Gonzalez welcomed the evening’s attendees. Dr. Michael Giacchetto, the district’s assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, presented the keynote address.

“At this ceremony, I was delighted to see so many of our students making such a strong commitment to academic excellence as well as service to their school and the greater Islip community,” Dr. Gonzalez said. “We were thrilled to add the Business and Marketing Honor Society this year to inspire and recognize more of our students.”

“It was a great opportunity to witness so many hardworking students get inducted into the honor societies,” teacher Renee Clock said. “As the adviser of the New York State Business and Marketing Honor Society, it was a special night to induct 25 business students as our very first induction at Islip High School.”

Date Added: 6/13/2025

Families of the Islip School District attended the annual Festival of the Arts at Islip High School on May 20, an event that celebrates the district’s outstanding art and music programs. A walkable art exhibition showcased hundreds of student artwork from grades K-12 displayed in the school’s auditorium, hallways and cafeteria, including paintings, drawings, sculptures and mixed media pieces. Musical performances in the cafeteria featured the Islip Middle School Chamber Orchestra and Show Choir, as well as the high school and middle school jazz bands. Visiting families were entertained with an art scavenger hunt, and a special instrument petting zoo gave younger students from prekindergarten to third grade the chance to try out string, brass and woodwind instruments for their upcoming instrument choice in fourth grade. 
 
“The Festival of the Arts is my favorite event of the year,” Director of Fine and Performing Arts Michael Hershkowitz said. “Our community has the chance to experience what the students of Islip experience everyday – absolutely top-notch art and music education. The creativity on display speaks for itself, and I am grateful for the hard work of our Fine and Performing Arts team.”

Date Added: 5/29/2025