http://www.swrschools.org Copyright 2013 Syntax Communications Students at Prodell Middle School participated in the school’s Oral History Day in early June, a rare opportunity during which Leisure Glen residents visited the middle school and shared their personal histories with the eighth-grade students. A total of 18 volunteers from Leisure Glen visited with the students and spoke about topics such as immigrating to the United States, service and experience during World War II, the history of education and more. The seniors, whose visit was organized by John Speciati, held meetings and practiced their presentations to prepare for their visit. The purpose of Oral History Day is to provide middle school students with the experience to hear history from people who actually lived it. According to teacher Danielle Senneca, who coordinated the day, “Our students learned so much from the seniors, but from what John Speciati has told me, the seniors get a lot out of the day as well. They have opportunities to talk to the students and bridge the generation gap.” During one particular session, Leisure Glen resident Christa Weunisch shared her experience of growing up in Germany during World War II. She spoke of how she and her family would have to seek shelter underneath a cemetery when the area was being bombed. “We took all of this as normal,” she said. “It was a normal way of life and we didn’t know any different.” Eighth-grade students listened intently as Ms. Weunisch shared her story and were given the opportunity to ask any questions of her. Ms. Weunisch concluded her presentation by saying to the students, “You have the chance to get a great education here. Take advantage of it and be grateful for what you have.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11416 Wed, 12 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT Staff members of the Wildcat Pause, Shoreham-Wading River High School’s newspaper, captured 33 awards in the Long Island Press’s annual High School Journalism Awards ceremony held May 22 at Hofstra University. There were more than 1,200 entries from more than 30 high schools across Long Island. Most awards were for writing, but the staff also won in the news illustration and single-page layout categories. The paper took the first place award for overall layout due in large part to the efforts of Paul Whitbeck, graphics editor. First place awards went to Ashlyn Vicari (3), Gabrielle Bruno and Kelly Granzen. Second place awards were gien to Gabrielle Bruno, Tom Cummings, Bobbie Ferentinos, Kelly Granzen, Tim Haggerty and Lauren Lustgarten. Third place awards went to Gabrielle Bruno, Bobbie Ferentinos, Kelly Granzen (2), James Kuczewski (2), Giavanna Verdi and Spring Yu. Honorable Mentions were given to Gabrielle Bruno, Tom Cummings, Casey DePalma, Michael Julian, Tom Kirby, Emily Kulesa (2), Carolyn Rogers, Shannon Steimel (2), Giavanna Verdi (2) and Joseph Whelan. The mission of the Wildcat Pause is to entertain, inform and enlighten students, staff and the public, creating a sense of awareness within the SWR community. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11294 Thu, 06 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11253 Wed, 05 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11254 Wed, 05 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT This spring, approximately 35 students in grades 3-6 took to the fields at Wading River Elementary School to learn the skills of football and participate in the inaugural Community Programs Youth Flag Football Instructional League. The league was started by Bill Denniston and Matt Millheiser, both teachers and coaches in the district. “We recognized the popularity of football in this community and we wanted to provide an opportunity to expose more kids to the game,” Mr. Denniston stated. Each week, students were instructed on skills such as throwing, catching, pass patterns, handoffs and defensive techniques. In addition to Mr. Denniston and Mr. Millheiser, current SWR varsity football players were on hand to provide instruction and serve as game officials. “It was great for the high school players to take on leadership roles and be mentors to the younger players,” said Mr. Millheiser, who serves as the current head varsity football coach. The league provided a fun environment for players of all skill levels and gave them an opportunity to play in games while getting some good exercise. “Flag football is fast-paced, so the kids get a great cardiovascular workout,” Mr. Millheiser stated. “They have so much fun in the games that they do not think of it as exercise.” Overall, the first year of the league was a success and will look to continue to expand in the coming years. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11195 Sun, 02 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT On May 24, MSG Varsity and Cablevision’s Power to Learn, along with Congressman Tim Bishop, Legislator Sarah Anker and Brookhaven Councilwoman Jane Bonner, recognized student members of high school’s Global Awareness Club as the Suffolk County Charity Champions grand prize winners. Charity Champions is a program developed by Power to Learn that promotes volunteerism and encourages area high schools to raise funds for a charity of their choice. During the event, the school was presented with $5,000 to be donated to the Hope Children’s Fund, a not-for-profit organization that provides aid for HIV-affected orphans in Meru, Kenya. Power to Learn had already furnished the school with seed money to help with fundraising efforts and a $1,000 donation to the charity to acknowledge the school’s participation in the Charity Champions competition. Between monetary donations and money raised from selling Kenyan crafts, the students were able to donate over $30,000 to the charity this year. “We try to encourage local high schools to engage in projects in which they are providing service to others, whether they be in their own community or in the community at large,” said Congressman Bishop. “Your work is a shining example of just how important this kind of activity is. You have truly made a little slice of Kenya, as well as this community, a better place.” In addition, 11 students took a trip to Kenya this past February to deliver donations and help the children at the Hope Children’s Fund orphanage. “Not only is the trip inspirational, the people we meet there are inspirational as well,” said Global Awareness Club member Julie Lindell. “I don’t even know where to begin when trying to explain our experiences in Africa. The trip as a whole was just incredible.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11172 Thu, 30 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11123 Tue, 28 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11066 Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT In effort to combat distracted driving, seniors at Shoreham-Wading River High School participated in the “Arrive Alive” tour, a national program that teaches teenagers how dangerous it is to drive while texting or drinking. The day began with the students pausing outside of the high school, where a damaged car involved in a distracted driving accident was stationed. While surveying the horrific damage, students themselves led the discussion about the dangers of distracted driving. Students then viewed a short film and heard from Lynn Scarpati, a volunteer from Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Lynn’s son, Matt, was killed in 2008 by a drunk driver while bicycling on a bike path alongside the Wantagh Parkway. Ms. Scarpati shared her heartbreaking story with students and said, “It only takes a minute - only a second - to change a life and the lives of those around the person you hurt or kill.” Students also heard from Vincent Relle, brother-in-law of Nassau County Police Officer Kenneth Baribault, who suffered a traumatic brain injury after being struck by a drunk driver in 2008. To conclude the powerful program, the seniors were able to see for themselves just how dangerous distracted driving can be. They had the opportunity to drive in a high-tech driving simulator, through which they experienced how difficult it is to drive while impaired or while texting. According to student Christian Perricone who struck three people during his simulation, “It’s scary to think you can kill people just by taking out your phone. Most of the kids in our generation text while driving. I will think twice now!” Fellow student Larissa Hoefler said, “In my simulation, I drove on the wrong side of the road and had two crashes. It was awful.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11074 Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT On April 10, students from the STEM Club at Prodell Middle School entered the National Kid Wind competition held at the Cradle of Aviation in Garden City. The competition challenges students to create a wind turbine that is “efficient, elegant and highly functional.” As blade design and engineering is one of the most complicated and important aspects of current wind turbine technology, engineers strive to design blades that extract as much energy from the wind as possible while also being durable, quiet and cheap. The participating students from Prodell Middle School created turbines that produced more voltage output than other competing schools. The students also eloquently articulated what they had learned to the judges from National Grid. Second-place winners with a horizontal turbine design were students Cassandra Green and Zacharias Raptis. Students Dylan Meloni, Christopher Hickey, Nicholas Johnson and John Greene captured third place. The students received gift cards from Best Buy as well as a permanently engraved plaque to be displayed at the middle school for their accomplishments. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11075 Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Thank you to all residents who participated in the 2013-14 budget vote and trustee election. The budget passed by a vote of 1,005 to 504. Proposition #2 was also approved by a vote of 1,137 to 369. In addition, Sean Beran was elected as a trustee to the Board of Education and Richard Pluschau was reelected to his post as trustee. Again, thank you to all who voted and for supporting our schools! http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10969 Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT We are excited to announce that you can now register and pay for Community Education Classes online through our new Shoreham Wading River School District Web Store! You can register and make payments online from your home or work computer, any time of the day. It takes just a few minutes to make an online payment using Discover, VISA, MasterCard (credit/debit). Payments will be processed on a secure site, powered by RevTrak. Click here http://swr.revtrak.net for more detailed instructions on making your online payments. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10911 Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Eighth-grade students at Prodell Middle School recently worked hand in hand with scientists from Brookhaven National Laboratory during their physical science class. Michele Theroux and Alexandra Pulecio, both scientists at BNL, visited the students to present a unit on energy. During the sessions, students studied solar panels and conducted a variety of experiments under the supervision of Ms. Theroux and Ms. Pulecio. Donning safety equipment, the students first tested the temperature of different materials to determine which absorbed the most heat. They then tested the materials to determine which would make the best protective cover for a solar panel, keeping in mind that an ideal cover would be both transparent and protective. According to Ms. Pulecio, “Lessons like this are important because students need to see that science is hands-on. The lesson also serves as a forum for students to question their findings.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10943 Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT In mid-May, the words of Shakespeare were brought to life for freshman and sophomore students at Shoreham-Wading River High School. Students were treated to a production of “Macbeth” by the American Globe Theatre as part of the theater’s Shakespeare for Schools program. Coordinated by high school teachers Debbie Dost and Jennifer Nazer, the program sought to portray the tragedy of Macbeth to students in an authentic, educational way. According to the American Globe Theatre, “Shakespeare's words and characters are presented live – the way that Shakespeare was meant to be experienced – using the First Folio method, a practice of acting and directing believed to be used by Shakespeare's original company.” At the high school, freshmen traditionally read “Macbeth” as part of the English curriculum. Ms. Nazer said, “To complement the reading this year, we searched for a film version of ‘Macbeth’ that was educational and not just purely about entertainment. When we couldn’t find a suitable version, we found the American Globe Theatre.” Following the dramatic presentation to students, the actors from the American Globe Theatre took time to talk with students about what they had learned from the performance and how it had enhanced their appreciation and understanding of Shakespeare. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10872 Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to freshman Kaitlin Sicari who, out of thousands of entries, was chosen as one of 12 winners in the 2013 Astoria Federal Savings Teen Photo Contest. Kaitlin’s photograph of her younger sister blowing out a birthday candle earned Kaitlin the winning prize. She will receive $250 and, in addition, Shoreham-Wading River High School will receive $100 toward the school’s photography program. Congratulations! http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10904 Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The talented students of Shoreham-Wading River High School recently staged a performance of Woody Allen’s “Don’t Drink the Water.” Student-actor Zach Fisher portrayed Axel Magee, the son of an American ambassador who wants nothing more than to please his father. When Ambassador Magee leaves the embassy for business, he reluctantly places Axel in charge alongside his assistant Kilroy. A crisis immediately ensues when the Hollanders, a family of American tourists, are confused for spies by the Communist police. Walter Hollander, along with his wife Marion and daughter Susan, rush inside the embassy to hide, only to become trapped there due to the threats of Krojack, the head of police. With an intense spy-themed storyline, comic relief comes in the form of the uproarious Hollanders, a wild chef, and the funny Father Drobney, a priest who has been hiding out at the embassy for years. Thanks to the charming cast, the gifted students of Shoreham-Wading River High School put on a spellbinding, hilarious performance of one of Woody Allen’s most beloved plays. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10755 Mon, 13 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10663 Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students at Briarcliff Elementary School participated in a special presentation with author and scientist Vicki Cobb, who made science come “alive” for the young children. Ms. Cobb, who writes about science, began the presentation by talking to students about the process of writing a book and how she makes her writing the best it can be. She then demonstrated many hands-on science experiments for the students, including “Aristotle’s Illusion,” a tactile illusion that makes it feel as if one has two noses. The experiment that wowed the audience the most, however, was her signature “Flying Teabag” demonstration, during which Ms. Cobb made an empty tea bag float into the air. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10651 Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to Wading River Elementary School fifth-grade students William Cutinella and Margaret Panasci who were recognized by the New York State Art Teachers Association. Both students were chosen to have their artistic works displayed at the 2013 Legislative Student Art Exhibit in Albany, N.Y. after being nominated by art teacher Karen Smith. The exhibit is held each year in celebration of Youth Art Month and serves as a forum to showcase artistic achievements of young artists throughout the state. William and Margaret were invited to a special reception in Albany, during which the student-artists were recognized. All students in attendance were also invited to tour the New York State Capitol. Congratulations to these talented artists on their achievement! http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10498 Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10452 Sun, 28 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The district encourages all eligible residents to vote in the 2013-14 budget vote and trustee election, to be held on Tuesday, May 21, 2013 between the hours of 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. at the high school gymnasium. For detailed information about the budget, please click here. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10437 Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10395 Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Talented artists from Shoreham-Wading River High School were recently recognized with a variety of honors during the spring season. Students Shelby Curtin, Heather Cullum and Richie Lacovara were recognized with “Best in Show” awards at the Long Island Media Arts Show, hosted by Five Towns College in Dix Hills. The annual show was a display of artistic work from high school students across Long Island with pieces representing such fields as media arts, photography, computer arts and video. While there, students were able to have their work evaluated by field professionals and educators and also view and critique the work of their peers. The photographs that earned “Best in Show” from Shelby, Heather and Richie can be viewed in the main office of the high school. In addition to these honors, six high school photography students were recently selected to have their work appear on Jones Soda labels. Jones Soda is a national product sold in major stores and is popular for being a healthy alternative to regular soda. Its label features a black-and-white photograph. This year, the work of the following students was chosen to be highlighted: Noelle Aronica, Shelby Curtin, Richard Fox, Makayla Meeker, Danielle Nicosia and Hailey Wehr (two photos of Hailey’s were selected). Look for their photographs on Jones Soda bottles in stores in coming weeks! Finally, high school photography student Anna Simos was chosen as a finalist in the Splashes of Hope art competition. Splashes of Hope is a nonprofit organization specializing in mural painting projects. This year, they sponsored an art competition seeking out artwork with a patriotic theme. Anna’s photograph of a young girl in a flag dress riding a rocking horse was one of five finalists in her age group. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10378 Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10285 Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Click here to view the article. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10299 Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the 15 students from Prodell Middle School who participated in the 23rd annual Middle School Magnetic Levitation Contest sponsored by Brookhaven National Laboratory. In preparation for the contest, students in Karen Peterson’s eighth-grade technology classes designed and built their own vehicles, supported and propelled by magnetic fields. To be successful in the BNL contest, the vehicles were required to travel 16 feet on a cushion of air. Students designed their vehicles within class using a variety of materials and were able to enter one of five categories: self-propelled, electrified track, wind power, gravity or appearance. Ms. Peterson noted that to prepare for the contest, students first thought of 15 different ideas for their vehicle. They then sketched all 15 vehicles before ultimately choosing one that they thought would be the most successful. After drawing a full-scale model of their chosen vehicle, they brainstormed different materials to use in the building process. Students were also required to answer a packet of questions from BNL in preparation for the contest, including how their vehicle was modified throughout the process. Out of the 182 Prodell students who participated in the project, 15 were chosen to advance to the BNL competition. Five of these students placed at the competition in their respective categories. Congratulations to: Self-Propelled Nic Cusano (1st Place) Anthony Lynch Emma Pase Electrified Track Jaret Acer Jack Higgins Wind Power Sebastian Rodreguiz Gravity Colin Flannery (2nd Place) Appearance Shannon Dowd Nicole Flynn Kristi Granzen Meghan Groskoph (2nd Place) Ann Marie Guli Emily Korzekwinski Mitchell LaShier (2nd Place) Hannah Montenegro (2nd Place) According to participant Kristi Granzen, who designed a vehicle that pulled a horse trailer, “At first, I wouldn’t have thought that magnets could be used for transportation. I enjoyed going to the contest and competing – it was fun to see science in action.” Fellow student Mitchell LaShier, who placed second in the appearance category for his scale model of a school bus, researched buses and took pictures before building his own vehicle. Congratulations to all participants on their success! http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10256 Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT In early April, Prodell Middle School students brought the auditorium stage to life with their production of “Starmites.” Originally performed by the middle school in 1994, the science fiction story tells the tale of Eleanor, a teenager who “escapes” the real world through her creation of a science fiction fantasy. Her dream consists of the characters she has befriended in her comic books and the “Starmites,” the guardian angels of Innerspace. The middle school production featured two separate casts, allowing 47 student-actors to participate. In addition to the talented casts, middle school students also served as members of the stage crew, ensuring that the productions went off without a hitch. Directed by Artie Gross and produced by Danielle Senneca, “Starmites” transported audiences to another world, entertaining them throughout. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10179 Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9694 Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10033 Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT In early April, students at Briarcliff Elementary School participated in a virtual field trip, through which they “traveled” to the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee. Thanks to modern videoconference technology, the students were able to see and interact with Todd Montgomery, education manager at the sanctuary. Mr. Montgomery provided the students with a wealth of information about elephants, the sanctuary and the 15 different elephants that call the refuge home. Students were even able to view the elephants in real time, thanks to cameras mounted throughout the sanctuary. This virtual trip was just one of several planned for Briarcliff students this school year. Later in the month, students will participate in another virtual trip called “Science of Sound” with the Cleveland Institute of Music. During this session, students will learn the scientific concepts behind sound in a highly interactive way. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10038 Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10029 Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9989 Tue, 02 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT On March 21, Shoreham-Wading River High School seniors Kimberly Pflumm and Amanda DeGennaro joined with family members to sign their National Letters of Intent to play field hockey for Mercyhurst University and Dowling College, respectively. Also in attendance were field hockey coach J.M. Jackson and Director of Athletics Kenneth Marlborough who had nothing but the highest regards for the student-athletes. “Kim is tenacious, confident and a strong defense player,” said Jackson. “And Amanda is a spark with tremendous skill, energy and attack on the field. They are going to be greatly missed.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9955 Sun, 31 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Shoreham-Wading River High School is pleased to announce senior Cari Gostic as the Class of 2013 valedictorian and Taylor Brant as the class salutatorian. On March 20, both students were surprised with the announcement naming them as the leaders of the Class of 2013. Family members were there to congratulate the outstanding students along with Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steven Cohen, Principal Daniel Holtzman and high school faculty members. Cari and Taylor were both honored with a plaque, flowers, balloons and a celebratory breakfast. “This is a well-deserved honor,” said Mr. Holtzman. “You’ve worked very hard so relish in the moment.” Congratulations to these young women, who will be profiled in the summer edition of the district newsletter. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9816 Tue, 19 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9799 Mon, 18 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT In an ongoing effort to combine physical education with fun, interactive experiences for children, Wading River Elementary School teachers Katie Carlson and John Regazzi implemented “boot camp” for students. Children rotated through 10 different circuit training stations in their physical education class, ranging from floor squats and box jumps to push-ups and resistance band training. The unit served as a new, challenging way to help build students’ cardiovascular endurance, a major component of exercise and wellness. According to Principal Stephen Donohue, “The students are really enjoying this unit. Some children are even going home and asking their parents to try the exercises at home with them!” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9696 Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students throughout Shoreham-Wading River High School celebrated “P.S. I Love You Day,” a day dedicated to the fight against depression and suicide. Spearheaded by junior Giavanna Verdi, the day served as an outlet to let others know they are never alone and that someone is always there to help. In recognition of the day, SWR students and staff were encouraged to wear purple to school. In addition, Giavanna collected donations for the Long Island Crisis Center and distributed purple ribbons to those who donated. High school students also had the opportunity to write down positive thoughts on purple index cards, which were then hung on the wall for all to see. One card read, “Be the best version of yourself that you can be,” while another proclaimed, “The more you celebrate your life, the more there is to celebrate.” Giavanna learned about P.S. I Love You Day through her participation in the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Foundation. While attending a HOBY seminar, Giavanna heard from and met West Islip student Brooke DiPalma, the person responsible for starting P.S. I Love You Day throughout the region. “I feel like our community needs to be a little bit brighter and wanted to bring some happiness to our school,” stated Giavanna on her decision to bring the awareness campaign to the high school. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9550 Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to Prodell Middle School seventh-grade student Jordan McClintock on being recognized by Cablevision’s “Power to Learn” as the grand prize winner in their Fifth Annual Hispanic Heritage Month essay contest. Jordan was chosen as the grand prize winner from approximately 250 other submissions spanning the entire tri-state area, as well as Montana, Wyoming and Colorado (other Cablevision territories). This is the second year that Jordan has placed in the competition, as she earned the third-place prize last year. The contest, sponsored by Cablevision and Olympusat, provider of Spanish language channels to Cablevision, asked students to write on the topic of “Who is a Latino you admire and why?” For her winning entry, Jordan wrote about family friend Luz Cabrera. Jordan explained in her writing about what an inspiration Ms. Cabrera has been on her life. Completely blind, Ms. Cabrera is a volunteer and community activist who continuously organizes events for disadvantaged families. “I marvel at her courage,” Jordan stated. “She is a wonderful person that I’m proud to know.” For her great accomplishment, Jordan was honored on March 1 with a special assembly at the middle school. Power to Learn manager Nicholas Marino was on hand to present Jordan with a scholarship check for $2,500, and Assemblyman Dan Losquadro was also present to extend his congratulations. The highlight of the celebration, however, was when Jordan shared her winning entry, titled “Lighting and Leading the Way,” with the audience. When asked why she entered the contest, Jordan replied, “I’m Hispanic and this contest was an opportunity to connect and show people how proud I am of my heritage.” The district congratulates Jordan on this great honor! http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9442 Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9422 Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9327 Sun, 24 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9240 Tue, 19 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT At the beginning of the school year, Wading River Elementary School students were introduced to a new character education program, titled “Character Counts.” Since September, the students have participated in a variety of programs and activities designed to reinforce the school’s “six pillars of character.” To emphasize these pillars of trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship, the school recently added six special street signs around the hallways to model each of the pillars. From “Caring Street” to “Responsibility Road,” the pillars are continually reinforced as students navigate the hallways. In addition, every student at Wading River contributed to the school’s “Caring Quilt,” now on display by the school’s all-purpose room. Each student was asked to decorate a quilt square and complete the sentence, “I am caring when…” The students responded with a wide variety of answers, including “I am caring when I help my mom set the table,” “I am caring when I share,” and “I am caring when I don’t pollute and do my chores.” Junior Girl Scout Troop 763, led by parents Honore Cavaco and Alisa McMorris, donated their time to piece together the quilt and laminate it. Ms. Cavaco said, “The troop logs approximately 100 hours of community service a year, so the girls were very excited to help with this effort. They truly were touched by what their fellow students wrote on the quilt.” A special thank you is extended to Troop 763, as well as the members of the Character Education team from Wading River: Doreen Armstrong, Priscilla Hartman, Stefanie Margliano, Tracy O’Lear, Carolyn Stein, Kelly Toole and Christina Warnken. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9219 Sun, 17 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9160 Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9152 Tue, 12 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students in Danielle Algiere’s fourth-grade class at Miller Avenue Elementary School put math in motion with a recent lesson. During their unit of study on geometry, the students worked in groups to demonstrate specific geometric terms using their bodies. They creatively arranged themselves to demonstrate the concepts of point, line, ray, line segment, right angle, obtuse angle, parallel lines and intersecting lines. According to Ms. Algiere, “The lesson contributed to student learning because it made abstract concepts become more concrete.” Pictured from top to bottom, students Caitlin Thrash, Blythe Wing, Cody Langenhahn and Ryan Mann form a geometric line with their arms. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9072 Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Early this morning, administrators at Shoreham-Wading River High School were notified of a threatening Internet-based message. Administrators immediately contacted Suffolk County Police to report the threat. As a precautionary measure, students arriving at school were held on their school buses and not allowed to enter the school building. After an investigation by Suffolk County Police, the source of the threat was identified and the police determined that there was no threat to the high school. At approximately 8 a.m., the lockdown was lifted and students were permitted to enter the building. The health, safety and welfare of our students and staff are always our top priority. Please know that every precaution is taken on a daily basis to protect the safety of our students and staff and to provide a secure learning environment for all. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8958 Fri, 01 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Seventh-grade students at Prodell Middle School have forged a special bond with their peers in China through a special pen pal program, now in its third year. Dr. Linda Anthony, the middle school principal, traveled to China with the College Board in 2010 to speak about education and the importance of children learning world languages. While there, Dr. Anthony developed a partnership with a middle school in Shandong Province. Since that time, she has communicated with the Chinese principal and English teacher regularly. The relationship evolved into a full-fledged pen pal program for the students of both schools, beginning in 2010 with sixth-grade students. Prior to the holiday break in December, students in both Diana Richardson’s and Linda Mohabir’s English classes studied China. They read articles, looked at pictures and held discussions on Chinese culture. Following the break, the students wrote their first letter to their pen pals. They wrote about themselves and then asked their pen pals questions about their own lives. The pen pal exchange will continue throughout the school year as a way for the students to learn about each other’s cultures. Discussing the importance of this program, Dr. Anthony said, “This program is a wonderful opportunity for us to bridge an understanding of Chinese education, their system and their culture.” Ms. Mohabir added, “Through the pen pal project, the students learn empathy. They learn to not make assumptions and to respect other cultures.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8962 Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8934 Tue, 29 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8887 Sun, 27 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT During the month of January, students at Wading River Elementary School traveled to five national parks, all within the comfort of their own school gymnasium. Each year, physical education teachers John Regazzi and Katie Carlson, with the help of parent volunteers, transform the gymnasium into another land for students to exercise in and learn about the world. This year, the space was decorated to the theme of national parks. Students traveled throughout the gym, rotating through five different stations or “national parks.” They were able to navigate above the Colorado River on the Grand Canyon and swing past the volcano of Haleakala National Park on gymnastic rings. They also experienced Zion, Acadia and Denali national parks through a variety of climbing apparatuses. “This year, the entire unit is focused on building students’ upper body strength,” commented Ms. Carlson. In addition to the physical activities, students stopped by a research station, where they studied books on national parks, browsed the national park websites and answered a variety of trivia questions. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8862 Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8879 Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8880 Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT In January, kindergarten and first-grade students at Briarcliff Elementary School participated in a roller-skating activity organized by the school’s physical education instructor Dierdre Gilroy. The theme, “Go With the Flow- Wear Protective Gear,” encouraged children to incorporate the use of appropriate safety measures and equipment including wearing a helmet, elbow pads, kneepads and wrist guards. Parents were also invited to attend the skating session. “Parents add extra support and encouragement for the students,” said Ms. Gilroy. Students were provided with skates and safety gear and were able to glide around the school’s gymnasium while listening to upbeat, fun music. At random points during the session, the music was paused and students halted to do a brief equipment check before continuing on. As part of their lesson, Ms. Gilroy also taught students how to maintain balance while skating and also discussed techniques to help avoid falling. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8752 Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8191 Mon, 14 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT A hand-decorated quilt bearing messages of hope will soon make its way from Miller Avenue Elementary School to the new Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut. The Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) at the school generated the idea of the quilt, anonymous donations were given to fund the project and squares of fabric were sent home to families to customize. These squares were transformed into messages of hope, from one family and learning community to another with “Kids Helping Kids,” then stitched together by the PTO to make the quilt that is briefly on display in the building’s lobby before being sent off to Connecticut. In the words of Miller Avenue’s PTO President, Jo Napolitano, "For some moments in life there are no words. May this quilt, created by our children, be a symbol of hope to the families of Sandy Hook. It is through faith that more things done in this world are done by hope. A gift we can only give one another." http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8631 Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8633 Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT For approximately 30 years, the annual Coffee House event held at Shoreham-Wading River High School has been a highlight for students. Held just prior to the holiday break, the Coffee House serves as an opportunity for high school students to display their talents in front of their peers. Those students interested must first audition; those acts selected are then invited to perform in front of the entire school. This year, the eclectic line-up included a number of musicians, dancers and actors. According to music teacher David Minelli who coordinated the show along with fellow teacher Steve Fayette, “The Coffee House is a wonderful opportunity for the students to explore their talents. Many times, their fellow peers are amazed when they perform because they didn’t know their friends were so talented!” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8650 Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8626 Wed, 09 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8570 Sun, 06 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7981 Sat, 05 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8389 Fri, 04 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Every year at Miller Avenue Elementary School, third-grade students participate in Immigration Day, an event that allows them to experience the struggles and hardships faced by immigrants who passed through Ellis Island. Prior to Immigration Day, each student developed a particular persona, in some instances based on their own heritage. On Immigration Day, the third-graders arrived to school dressed as immigrants. They then entered the multipurpose room, transformed by the help of parent volunteers into the Great Hall at Ellis Island. Students then made their way through the various checkpoints of Ellis Island, just as the immigrants who passed through the Great Hall did. Parent volunteers, dressed as inspectors, evaluated students to make sure they were “fit” to gain entrance to America. Students passed through stations including a vision screening, a neurological exam and hair and scalp inspection. After successfully making it through those checkpoints, students had to appear in front of the “final inspectors” who quizzed each “immigrant” on his/her heritage, reason for coming to America and plans after gaining entrance to the country. Throughout the day, students also participated in other activities including journal writing through which they detailed their experiences and a steerage simulation to experience the crowded journey that many Ellis Island immigrants faced. Principal Louis Parrinello said, “Children learn not just from textbooks but by actual experiences. They learn what they live. Immigration Day is a terrific example of this, as students are able to take on a role and act out a real-life event.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8551 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8525 Wed, 02 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8536 Wed, 02 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT In the spirit of giving and helping others, students and staff at Shoreham-Wading River High School once again hosted their annual “Holiday Project” prior to the holiday break. Since September, students in the district’s Schools Without Walls and Community Relations classes worked to plan and publicize events, as well as fundraise for gifts, home heating oil and dinners for area families in need. This year marked the 17th year of the great Holiday Project tradition. “I never really knew there were people right here in Shoreham-Wading River who needed all of these things for the holidays,” said senior Matt Hellsten. Groups of students were each assigned a family to help, although the identities of those families remain anonymous. The students began fundraising and purchasing gifts off their assigned family’s “wish list” in early September. Each class was also assigned businesses in the nearby community to contact about donating to the cause. In addition, the groups were given the responsibility of reaching out to local newspapers and encouraging them to contribute. This year’s supporters of the project include the Kevin Williams Foundation, Saint Anselm’s Church and the Real Life Assembly of God. “Working with the community helps us to incorporate service learning while giving us an education about real-life situations,” stated student Jed Caldwell. Delivery of the donations was coordinated by school social worker Jackie Anci, and the deliveries were made the week prior to the holiday break. “When I deliver everything that we have collected, the families are always so grateful for all of the work the students did to make their holiday special,” said Ms. Anci. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8424 Thu, 20 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Dear Shoreham-Wading River School Community: As we struggle as a Nation to come to grips with the unspeakable events in Newtown, Connecticut, the thoughts and prayers of the Shoreham-Wading River school community are with those most directly impacted by this tragedy. The safety of our students and staff is our number one priority. It is imperative to note that our schools are a safe place. With that said, we are currently reviewing our safety and security procedures and will make enhancements where necessary and on an as needed basis. The Board of Education will consider possible safety and security enhancements at its December 18th Board of Education meeting, which will be held at 8 pm in the High School Library. Throughout the week, members of our guidance department, as well as our school psychologists, are available to assist any student who may need to speak with an adult regarding this terrible tragedy. Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you feel that your child is in need of special assistance and/or if you feel that you need guidance with how to best approach this situation with your child. On one final note, we have been informed by the 7th Precinct that the Suffolk County Police Department will be increasing motor patrols around all schools within the county. Please do not be concerned if you see any police vehicles patrolling our facilities. On behalf of the entire district, I thank you for your support and the confidence you place in us on a daily basis as we try and maintain a safe and supportive educational environment for your children. Steven Cohen Superintendent of Schools http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8325 Sun, 16 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT There has been a confirmed case of pertussis, commonly referred to as “whooping cough,” at Shoreham-Wading River High School. The student is home and is currently under a doctor’s care. Please be assured that the health and safety of our students is our top priority. Please continue to monitor your children for symptoms, specifically a persistent cough. People are contagious for 2-3 weeks after the onset of the cough and can be effectively treated with antibiotics during that time, so please contact your physician promptly for diagnosis if you suspect pertussis. For more information on pertussis, including its symptoms, please visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/pertussis. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8264 Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8266 Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to junior Ryan Udvadia who was named the Suffolk County Runner of the Year. Ryan, a member of the Boys Varsity Cross-Country team, was also named an All-League, All-Conference, All-County and All-State runner, as well as an undefeated league, conference and County B champion. Ryan contributes his talents to an outstanding team, coached by Robert Szymanski. This season, the Boys Cross-Country team captured a number of titles, including league, conference and County B champions. This year marks the tenth straight league title for the team, as well as the 8th county title in the past 10 years. Stay tuned for further team accomplishments, to be outlined in the upcoming winter edition of the “SWR Review.” Congratulations! http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8271 Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Shoreham-Wading River Central School District has launched a mobile version of its website. Accessible from any web-enabled phone or Smartphone, the site connects students, parents, community members and teachers, wherever they may be, with the district. Visit www.swrschools.org from any web-enabled phone to test the site. The mobile website provides users with the same information as the regular website, such as news, calendar and staff lists. It also provides alerts in an easy-to-read manner. We hope this provides users with more on-the-go availability to the website. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8219 Tue, 11 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Second and third-grade students at Miller Avenue Elementary School took part in an interactive puppet show, presented by representatives from the Sunshine Center based in Port Jefferson Station. The show was geared at teaching the children about bullying and ways to handle difficult situations. Miss Carol and Miss Amber, both from the Sunshine Center, began the presentation by talking to students about what a bully is, the different types of bullying, and how to reach out for help if one is being bullied. Following their discussion with students, volunteers from each class were chosen to assist in a puppet show. Children enthusiastically raised their hand for a chance to participate. During the show, each puppet was “brought to life” by the students, as Miss Carol narrated the performance. The show told the story of six children in a bullying situation and, ultimately, how they resolved their conflicts. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8151 Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7989 Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to 12 outstanding Shoreham-Wading River High School athletes who recently signed National Letters of Intent to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level. The athletes gathered for a special ceremony at the high school to recognize their accomplishments in the presence of family, friends and district administrators. District Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics Kenneth Marlborough welcomed all in attendance and told the athletes, “Congratulations on your great accomplishment. Signing a National Letter of Intent is a very special thing!” The athletes who were recognized are: Jessica Angerman, Girls Lacrosse, University of Michigan Clare Blomberg, Girls Lacrosse, Merrimack College Meredith Bushell, Girls Lacrosse, Ohio State University Paulina Constant, Girls Lacrosse, Ohio State University Alex Fehmel, Girls Lacrosse, Fairfield University Chelsea Hawks, Softball, Molloy College Alex Houlihan, Boys Lacrosse, Southern New Hampshire University Lauren Lustgarten, Girls Lacrosse, Central Connecticut State University Jake Kavanagh, Boys Lacrosse, Saint Leo University Alyssa Pearce, Girls Lacrosse, Sacred Heart University Tim Rotanz, Boys Lacrosse, University of Maryland Ryan Stern, Boys Lacrosse, C.W. Post Campus of Long Island University http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8016 Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Prior to the Thanksgiving holiday, students at Briarcliff Elementary School united for a special celebration. They gathered in the main hallway to enjoy a special snack from home and sing festive Thanksgiving songs such as “The Turkey Hokey Pokey” and “Turkey Tom and Turkey Mom.” Wearing festive turkey or pilgrim hats they had crafted in class, the students enjoyed their time singing, socializing and offering thanks. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7886 Tue, 20 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Tuesday, Nov. 13, Shoreham-Wading River High School hosted its 10th Annual Veterans Day Symposium, in honor of those who have served and fought for our country. Coordinated by teacher Ruth Squillace, the symposium served as a way to honor and pay tribute to veterans, as well as an interactive learning experience for students. To begin the symposium, members of the school’s Vocal Express provided a touching rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” while all veterans in attendance stood in salute. Ms. Squillace then paid tribute to Shoreham-Wading River High School graduate Michael D. DiRoma (Class of 2004), a lance corporal with the United States Marine Corps who recently passed away. Current sophomore Matt Gladysz performed a moving performance of “Taps” on trumpet, dedicated to the memory of Michael. During the symposium, 11th-grade students enrolled in the United States History and Government course had the opportunity to listen to and interact with three respected veterans. Private Michael Greck and Sergeant Chris Sarlo, both of whom served in the Marine Corps, and Staff Sergeant Jesse Quinn with the United States Army volunteered their time to talk about their military service with students. Throughout their presentation, the veterans addressed the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and shared their personal experiences of serving in the Iraq War. They discussed the traits needed to successfully operate in a combat zone, including sacrifice, dedication, honor, courage and adaptability. When speaking about courage, Staff Sergeant Quinn said, “When you’re in war, you just ‘hit the zone.’ There is no losing, no failing.” The veterans also shared photos from their tours of duty. While this was the 10th year that the high school has hosted the symposium, it was the first time local veterans were invited as honored guests to participate, as well. In addition to the three who talked with students, veterans from VFW Post 6249 in Rocky Point and American Legion Post 352 of Leisure Glen were also in attendance. While addressing the crowd, Ms. Squillace said, “Your service and dedication to our country is recognized and deeply appreciated.” At the conclusion of the symposium, students stayed beyond the end of the school day to interact with the veterans, try on military gear and pay their respects to those who have served. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7821 Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Dear SWR parents and guardians: Now that hurricane Sandy has spent her fury, everyone is beginning to attend to the disruptions left in her wake. I am writing to alert you to potential changes to our instructional calendar for the remainder of the 2012-2013 school year. As everyone knows, students lost 5 school days due to the storm, and this is our problem. We are required by state law to hold a minimum of 180 days of instruction—which include both instructional days and professional development days. Our 2012-2013 school calendar only has 2 days built-in to cover storm-related school closings before we hit the minimum limit of 180. Now, since we must make up 3 days of instruction already, even before winter sets in, I think it is important for everyone to know how this unusual situation will be addressed. First, the state legislature has not given the State Education Department (SED) the authority to reduce the minimum number of school days required (180). There is some indication it may do so in the near future. However, even if the legislature allows SED to reduce the minimum number of school days, it is still unclear whether districts will be required to use their vacation days before being permitted to hold fewer days of instruction. Second, since in the recent past the legislature has responded to other natural disasters by first requiring districts to use vacation days before being allowed to hold fewer than 180 days of instruction, we should all be alerted to the likelihood that we will have to use some of our vacation days before we will be allowed to hold fewer than 180 days of school. Here is how we will handle the real possibility that the number of vacation days will be reduced this year in order to deliver the 180 days of instruction: • Monday, April 1st will now be a school day. • Friday, February 22nd will now be a school day. • Thursday, February 21st will now be a school day. • Wednesday, February 20th will be a school day should we have a 4th school closing this winter. • Tuesday, February 19th will be a school day should we have a 5th school closing this winter. • Wednesday, March 27th will be a school day should we have a 6th school closing this winter. • Monday, March 25th will be a school day should we have a 7th school closing this winter. Please note that these changes to the school calendar are provided now to enable you to begin planning for the February and March breaks, but there is still a chance that the legislature will not require us to make any changes to our current calendar. I will inform everyone of any changes the legislature may make in coming days. Sincerely, Steven R. Cohen, Ph.D. Superintendent of Schools, SWR CSD http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7782 Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7736 Mon, 12 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT As you may be aware, the Shoreham-Wading River School District has recently garnered positive media coverage. We are pleased to share with you some of the highlighted topics featured in recent news articles. May the (magnetic) force be with you (PDF) Workshops help SWR teachers prepare for evaluations Daria Capone Named Village Beacon Record's "Educator of the Year" (PDF) Wrestling Team and Coach Named Village Beacon Record's "Sportsmen of the Year" (PDF) Second time’s the charm for Wildcats senior (PDF) SWR Global Awareness (PDF) Coach Bob Szymanski: a true icon at Shoreham Photo contest broadens horizon for Shoreham-Wading River student (PDF) Teeny Awards nominees announced by EEAC (PDF) Add Cargo to Food Train (PDF) McClintok is grand-prize winner of Cablevision's 'Hispanic Heritage' Essay Contest (PDF) Shoreham students experience autism for a day (PDF) Back from Kenya, forever changed (PDF) Baking People Happy (PDF) Sportsmen of the year: Mr. Korezki and Mr. Syzmanski Environmentalist of the Year: Alice Steinbrecher (PDF) Man of the Year in Education: Kevin Mann (PDF) One senior decides to "Mix it Up at Lunch" (PDF) Shoreham teen calls cast members 'second family' (PDF) Online Voting to Support Miller Avenue School Begins (PDF) Shoreham raises $3,000 at dig pink game (PDF) Walk for Liam to benefit child with rare leukemia (PDF) LI kids help first lady try to set jumping jack record (PDF) With fewer jobs for graduates, district rethinks its roles (PDF) Middle School Students Certified as Internet Smart (PDF) Briarcliff's New Principal: It's the People that Make a Building a School (PDF) Briarcliff Parents and Students Meet New Principal (PDF) Shoreham-Wading River Superintendent Unveils New District Plan (PDF) SWR Field Hockey Star a Cover Athlete (PDF) Click Here to View the In the News Archive! http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2163 Mon, 12 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, the Miller Avenue and Wading River elementary school communities united to help those affected by the storm. In the period of just a few short days, the schools held a special “Kids Helping Kids” drive, through which students, staff and parents could donate needed items. Both schools collected donations, including bottled water, diapers, food and toiletries, all of which were donated to families within the William Floyd School District. Students in Adrian Gilmore’s class at Miller Avenue initiated the Kids Helping Kids project. Upon returning to school after the hurricane, Ms. Gilmore discussed the storm with her students and asked them what they as a class could do to help, to which several students suggested a drive. They put their plan into action, eliciting the support of their home school as well as Wading River Elementary School. Thanks to the hard work and cooperation of many, together the schools packed two mini buses full of items for the Mastic Beach area. “This is a powerful way to help children learn that we are all one community,” Miller Avenue Principal Louis Parrinello stated. “The students were excited to be a part of this; they made a real difference in a community that is just down the road from our own district.” The district would like to thank the many people who made the Kids Helping Kids drive such a success, including Ms. Gilmore, who spearheaded the effort; Lynda Kranidis, whose class sorted the items at Miller Avenue; and Kelly Toole, who organized Wading River’s participation. Thank you also to the district’s bus company for donating the transportation of goods to the William Floyd district, as well as to the teaching assistants, teachers’ aides and all who donated to this great effort! http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7675 Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7633 Wed, 07 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Homecoming 2012 was a time of celebration for Shoreham-Wading River, as students, staff, alumni, parents and community members united to showcase their Wildcat pride. Throughout the week leading up to the homecoming football game, high school students took part in spirit week, dressing up for different themes each day. From twin day and “dress like a teacher day” to color day and decades day, classes took part in a friendly competition against one another to see who displayed the most spirit. On Friday afternoon, high school students gathered together for the annual Pep Rally to ignite Wildcat Pride to an even higher level. Each fall sports team was introduced and senior members were announced to cheers from the crowd. The varsity cheerleading team then performed, impressing their fellow students with their athletic stunts and loud cheers. The following day, the high school held its annual homecoming parade, during which each class showcased their float. Based on the theme of “classic video games,” the freshman class portrayed “Donkey Kong,” the sophomore class highlighted “Pac-Man,” the juniors showcased “Sonic the Hedgehog,” and the seniors impressed with their rendition of “Super Mario Kart.” Prior to the start of the game, a variety of high school clubs were also present to fundraise, each displaying a booth for community residents to visit. To kick off the football game, the Vocal Express provided a moving rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. The Wildcats then took to the field against the Stony Brook Bears for the final game of the regular season. While the Widlcats were trailing during the first quarter, they quickly took the lead of the game, conquering Stony Brook with a score of 40-21, the perfect conclusion to a week of spirited festivities. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7537 Sun, 04 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7495 Thu, 01 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7462 Sat, 27 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7391 Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7406 Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students in Ronnie Malave’s first-grade class at Briarcliff Elementary School received a special visit from local author and Briarcliff grandparent Peter Spier. Mr. Spier, an award-winning author and illustrator of over 40 children’s books, visited the students as part of the class’ “Authors as Mentors” study during their writing workshop unit. Mr. Spier spoke to the class about the sources from which he draws inspiration for his many stories, as well as the book production process in general. He also answered students’ questions about some of his books they had read in class. An accomplished illustrator, he addressed the subject of illustrating stories, one of the first-graders’ favorite aspects of producing a book. “Mr. Spier’s message was both simple and inspiring: You can tell an entire story through simple illustrations,” said Ms. Malave. Students concluded the session by reading their own self-published stories to Mr. Spier. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7364 Sun, 21 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7328 Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT This past July, New York State approved new legislation called the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA). This legislation requires school districts throughout the state to have programs in place that emphasize tolerance, self-respect and empathy in an effort to combat bullying, harassment and discrimination. With regard to DASA, ninth-grade students at Shoreham-Wading River High School took part in a field trip to Stony Brook University to view the movie “Bully,” a documentary that follows several students who are bullied and the tragic consequences that bullying can have. Following the movie, students returned to the high school for a debriefing with senior National Honor Society members. In small groups, the freshmen and seniors discussed their reactions to the movie and shared their stories of the kinds of bullying they’ve witnessed. Students also discussed what could be done to stop bullying and better prevent it. Members of the freshman class described “Bully” as “emotional, shocking, sad and heartbreaking.” Student Andrew Hubner said, “You have to be a little nicer to everyone around you; you never know who’s on the edge and needs the most help.” Fellow student Gabrielle Valdez added, “The film was helpful because people can see what students actually go through when they’re bullied. You shouldn’t judge anyone until you know their story.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7260 Mon, 15 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT To celebrate Fire Prevention Month during October, students at Wading River Elementary School received a special visit by members of the Wading River Fire Department. On Oct. 5, students gathered to learn from “Chief Mark” and other firefighters, who provided the children with a number of easy-to-remember tips in the event of an emergency. Students learned to establish an outside meeting place with their family in case of a fire, as well as the importance of smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms and fire extinguishers. To help alleviate any fears of what a firefighter looks (and sounds) like when fully dressed in a uniform, firefighter Bill donned his full gear for the students. To complete the morning, the Wading River children toured a number of emergency vehicles, including a fire engine and ambulance. Members of the fire and rescue department pointed out pieces of equipment, answered questions and even allowed the students to tour the inside of the vehicles. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7156 Mon, 08 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Three outstanding musicians from Shoreham-Wading River High School were selected to participate in the 77th Annual New York State School Music Association’s (NYSSMA) All-State Conference. Congratulations to Sean Callagy (orchestra), Eric Lopez (chorus) and Julie Lindell (band alternate). These talented students will join approximately 900 musicians from across New York State at the All-State Conference, to be held from Nov. 29 through Dec. 2 in Rochester, New York. Selection to the conference is deemed to be one of the highest honors attained by a high school student musician. Congratulations are also extended the seven student-musicians who were selected to participate in the 2012 SCMEA All-County Music Festival. These students will perform on Nov. 16 at Northport High School. They are Kerri Beacon (chorus), Kevin Callagy (chorus), Sean Callagy (orchestra), Julie Lindell (band), Eric Lopez (chorus), Sarah Uzzi (orchestra), and Christian Wern (orchestra). These talented musicians were chosen based on their NYSSMA scores and teacher recommendations. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7088 Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7079 Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7080 Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Shoreham-Wading River School District would like to thank members of the community for supporting the Technology and Track proposition. The proposition passed by a vote of 837 to 243. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7077 Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6918 Sun, 30 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7017 Thu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6915 Fri, 21 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6892 Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Tuesday, Sept. 11, students and teachers throughout the district took time to honor the 11th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. At Shoreham-Wading River High School, students reflected on words offered by Principal Dan Holtzman. In his remarks to students, Mr. Holtzman said, “Today, millions of people from nations around the world stand united behind one ideal – that the destructive agendas of radicals shall never eclipse the light of liberty. We must never forget the legacy of that September day – a world drawn together in the common cause of freedom and our renewed devotion to it.” Following Mr. Holtman’s speech, students observed a moment of silence, punctuated by the ringing of the peace bell. At Prodell Middle School, students participated in an activity during their advisory period. Students in each advisory collaborated with one another to write a “pledge for peace.” Each of the 48 advisories then wrote their pledge on a piece of paper and posted it in the school’s library for all to see, bordered by a patriotic display of American flags. In their pledge for peace, Mrs. Olsen’s and Mrs. Brieg’s class proclaimed, “We pledge to reach out and make others comfortable.” Ms. Kommor’s advisory students stated, “We pledge to perform one act of kindness each and every day to help make the earth a better place.” Students at Miller Avenue and Wading River Elementary Schools also paid tribute to the anniversary of Sept. 11 by wearing red, white and blue to school and observing a moment of silence. The Briarcliff community also paid respect by donning red, white and blue that day, as well. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6844 Thu, 13 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT The September 25th Board of Education Meeting has been reschedule to Monday, September 24th. Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6849 Thu, 13 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT October 2nd Proposition Vote 7am-9pm @ HS Auxiliary Gym Please remember to vote http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6718 Thu, 13 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click here for the 2012-2013 Community Forum Schedule http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6806 Tue, 11 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6756 Thu, 06 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students throughout the district were all smiles on Wednesday, Sept. 5 as the district officially opened its doors for the first day of school. Whether they were kindergartners stepping off of the bus for the first time or high school seniors kicking off their final year in the district, students throughout Shoreham-Wading River quickly settled in to their new routines. Principals and administrators at all five schools were on hand to warmly greet students and assist in any way as students arrived. Overall, the 2012-2013 school year got off to a great start and is surely an indication of a wonderful year ahead. Welcome back! http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6741 Tue, 04 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Tuesday, Sept. 4, faculty and staff of the district returned to work for the start of the 2012-2013 school year. Employees attended a Superintendent’s Conference Day, during which they reconnected with colleagues, reviewed important information for the upcoming year and made final preparations before students arrived for their first day. To begin the morning, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steven Cohen welcomed all in attendance and introduced Board of Education President Dr. William McGrath. Dr. McGrath warmly extended his appreciation to all staff members for their hard work and dedication to the district’s students. He also thanked the district’s maintenance and grounds crew for their work in preparing each of the school buildings for opening day. Steven Donohue, principal of Wading River Elementary School, as well as Lucille McKee, president of the Shoreham-Wading River Teachers Association, extended their welcomes and wished faculty and staff the best for the upcoming year. The conference day continued with a detailed and informational presentation regarding new mandates for 2012-2013, including Annual Professional Performance Review, Dignity for All Students and the district’s professional development program. Faculty and staff then returned to their respective buildings to meet with colleagues and continue their preparation. The district extends its best wishes to all faculty and staff members for a successful school year ahead. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6721 Mon, 03 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Shoreham-Wading River High School has been named a “Reward School” by the New York State Education Department for its academic achievement. It is one of only 67 schools throughout Long Island and 250 schools throughout the state to receive this designation. The high school was recognized as a “Reward School” for the high progress it made during the school year. As a “Reward School,” Shoreham-Wading River High School is now invited to compete for up to $150,000 in grants, provided through the federal Race To The Top Program. According to Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steven Cohen, “I am extremely proud that our high school was named a ‘Reward School.’ It is a validation of the ongoing hard work of our administrators, teachers and students.” Shoreham-Wading River High School Principal Daniel Holtzman added, “Our hard work is paying off and progress is being made. I’d like to congratulate our entire community for working together to improve our schools and I look forward to continuing on this path.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6703 Mon, 03 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6632 Thu, 23 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6620 Tue, 21 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6600 Thu, 16 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT For five weeks during the months of July and August, students in grades kindergarten through six had the opportunity to participate in the district’s Round Out program. Held this year at Prodell Middle School, the annual summer camp is a popular tradition for many Shoreham-Wading River students, many of whom return yearly. The camp provides the children with a variety of activities to participate in, including arts and crafts, recreational games and sporting events. The younger students are led by a team of committed counselors, most of whom are either students at Shoreham-Wading River High School or recent graduates. Middle school students also assist at the camp, providing lending hands to the older counselors. During the final week of Round Out this summer, students participated in Spirit Week. Throughout the week, campers faced off in a series of friendly competitions and cheered one another on for encouragement. Each grade also chose a mascot – the kindergartners creatively selected the “dog-cat” as theirs! According to Alyssa Pisani, a Class of 2012 graduate and a counselor at Round Out, “It is very fun to help out and interact with the younger students. You really get to know the children, as most return year after year!” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6555 Tue, 07 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6483 Mon, 16 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT At its meeting on July 10, the Shoreham-Wading River Board of Education reorganized and began planning for the 2012-2013 school year. Dr. William McGrath was unanimously reelected to the position of board president, while Richard Pluschau gained unanimous support for the position of vice president. Also at the meeting, new board trustee Robert Rose was officially sworn in to his position, while Mike Fucito took his oath for another term as board trustee. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6446 Tue, 10 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT The air was filled with excitement as the 218 graduates of the Class of 2012 processed onto the field to take the first step in the next chapter of their lives under the watchful eyes of family, friends and district staff. Under the direction of David Minelli, the High School’s Concert band played “Pomp and Circumstance” to announce the start of the district’s 36th Commencement Exercises. Student Government Co-Presidents William Bland and Samantha Lacovara then led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance, while Stefan Ringer sang a soulful version of the National Anthem. In his opening remarks, Board of Education President Dr. William McGrath told the graduates that they are embarking on a journey and are masters of their own universe. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steven R. Cohen spoke about Marco Polo and told the graduates that they too have the abstract knowledge that their country sets the standard for the world. This standard, however, will be tested as they travel to other lands and places. Salutatorian Jessica Filangeri pondered the meaning of graduation. “It is really a celebration of who we are, what we have achieved, and what we will achieve in the future,” she stated. Valedictorian Emily McNally encouraged her classmates to put in as much effort as possible during this time in their lives. “Put it all out there,” she remarked. “This is the time when we should put out our most effort.” Guest speaker and Shoreham-Wading River High School graduate (Class of 1987) Dr. Paul M. Maggio told the graduates that they do not have to know what they want to do at this moment. He encouraged them to discover their values, decide what line of work will make them happy, and not to run away from failure. “Your potential is unknown,” Dr. Maggio stated. “Be ready to stretch your capabilities.” Following the speeches and a dynamite performance by Abilgail Fayette, who played Bach’s Sonata No. 1 in G Minor for Solo Violin, Adagio, the graduates received their diplomas, officially becoming alumni of the Shoreham-Wading River School District. In his closing remarks, High School Principal Daniel Holtzman said he was particularly proud of the Class of 2012. He announced that 26 of the graduates had a weighted grade point average of 95 percent or more and 6 graduates had acquired a 100 percent average or higher. Mr. Holtzman cautioned them to never let go of their inner child and to never stray from their core value system. “I hope that your reflection in the mirror is something of which you are proud,” he stated. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6341 Sun, 24 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6348 Sun, 24 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6349 Sat, 23 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6350 Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Dressed in patriotic colors and carrying miniature flags, students at Miller Avenue celebrated National Flag Day during an assembly in the school gym. National Flag Day originated in 1885 and is the anniversary of the Flag Resolution of 1777. The day was established by a Proclamation of President Woodrow Wilson in 1916 and then signed into an Act of Congress in 1949. Principal Lou Parrinello explained the symbolism of the flag’s colors and the importance of its symbolism. “A flag is not just a thing we place on a wall,” Mr. Parrinello stated. “It is a part of all of us.” Danille Algiere and Allison Cowen’s fourth-grade class presented information about the Declaration of Independence. Under the direction of Ian Platt, the bell choir then played a selection of songs including “America the Beautiful.” New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) participants Eric DiLisio, Ryan Nowalk and Ashley Buro showcased their musical talents with selections from recent competitions. In addition, the second and third-grade students, under the direction of choral instructor Jenilyn Smith, sang songs from the popular play “Seussical.” In closing Mr. Parrinello stated, “The founding of this country took the struggle of many people, and it is for you to carry that torch.” The fifth-grade then sang America the Beautiful as the students in attendance waved their flags in a sea of red, white and blue. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6258 Mon, 18 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6241 Sun, 17 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6066 Thu, 14 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Continuing the district’s tradition of honor and excellence, 40 Shoreham-Wading River High School students were inducted into the National Honor Society during a traditional candlelighting ceremony in the school’s auditorium. This prestigious society honors the best and brightest students nationwide for their outstanding achievements both in and outside of the classroom. In order to be considered for induction into the society, students must be recommended by four teachers, achieve a cumulative grade point average of 90 percent or better, and have participated in community service. Additionally, the candidates are required to fulfill the society’s requirements of scholarship, service, leadership, character and citizenship. High School Principal Daniel Holtzman congratulated the students on becoming the society’s newest members. “Becoming a member means more than success in school,” Holtzman told the inductees. “It shows commitment.” During the ceremony, men and women selected from the community were inducted as Honorary Members. Liam McGuire, Kevin Mann, Mary Mitchell and Robert Sweet each lit a candle with a National Honor Society member to mark the society’s recognition of their contributions to the community. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6153 Mon, 11 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Senior Emily McNally was one of 60 valedictorians from across the county who attended the Suffolk County School Superintendents Association’s (SCSSA) 17th Annual Valedictorians Luncheon. Her parents, grandparents, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steven R. Cohen, and Assistant Principal Kevin Vann joined Emily during the cherished tradition hosted in honor of Long Island’s highest achieving students. Emily will be attending Johns Hopkins University this fall and will pursue a degree in biomedical engineering. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6110 Thu, 07 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The District would like to congratulate seniors Kari Quinn and Chelsea Hughes, who signed National Letters of Intent to continue their sport on the college level. Kari will play soccer at Syracuse University and Chelsea will play volleyball at Philadelphia University this coming fall. The student-athletes were joined by their parents, high school Principal Daniel Holtzman, coaches Adrian Gilmore and Katherine Winkler, and District Director of Athletics, Health, and Physical Education Kenneth Marlborough for this momentous occasion. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6061 Mon, 04 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6022 Sun, 03 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Swim King Pools in Rocky Point held a Logo Contest for their new division, opening in September, called Halloween King. The contest was open to high school Computer Graphics students from East Setauket to Riverhead. The students were tasked with designing a logo for this new division. The winning entry was from Zachary Zumbo, a student in Linda Blasko's Computer Graphics class. Swim King Pools presented Zachary with a $500 Visa Gift Card for his design. The Technology Department at the high school was also presented with a check for $500, and all students who entered the contest will be receiving a $20 gift certificate to the new store. Way to go! (Photo: Zachary accepting his gift card with store employees) http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6000 Fri, 01 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education passed a resolution during the May 22 meeting to allow the reallocation of excess funds towards health and safety projects throughout the District. On May 15, the community was asked to vote on a proposition to spend $1.1 million in leftover monies from previous health and safety projects, as well as $25,000 in state aid, on new health and safety initiatives. The final tally could not be determined due to a voting machine malfunction. On the night of the vote, there were 1,027 yes votes and 387 no votes recorded for Proposition 2. A total of 525 voters entered ballots into the malfunctioning voting machine. Upon advice of legal counsel, the Board determined that the proposition had passed, because the 525 votes from the broken voting machine would not have affected the outcome. More information on the projects approved through Proposition 2 can be found in the budget newsletter by clicking here. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5973 Wed, 30 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Sixteen seventh-grade technology students at Albert G. Prodell Middle School placed second and third in the Kid Wind Challenge for Wind Turbine Alternate Energy Production during a regional competition held for middle schools across Long Island at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City. The students have been diligently working during their lunch and recreation periods to design and create wind energy-producing turbines to test in wind tunnels for this competition. Eight groups tested specific scientific variables, including length, weight, shape, material, blade pitch, gearing, quantity of blades, and air foil design, and then recorded and graphed their test results. The students also hypothesized about their designs and drew conclusions based on their findings. During the competition, the judges questioned and evaluated the students on their ability to defend their decisions on blade designs. The District would like to congratulate the seventh graders on their ability to successfully create these award-winning turbines. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5958 Mon, 28 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Every year, there are 40,000 deaths nationally due to texting and talking on the phone while driving, and students at Shoreham-Wading River High School are trying to make a dent in this statistic. This week, students participated in a three-part program designed to heighten their awareness not only about texting and talking on a cell phone while driving, but on the effects of driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The program was sponsored in part by a $1,000 grant from Allstate insurance agent Beth Hanlon, who was on hand with office manager Jackie Messineo to discuss with the students the dangers of texting while driving. A driving simulator provided by the Drive Alive Tour was parked outside for each student to test his or her skills, mimicking alcohol’s effects on driving. Driver awareness instructor Storn Olson guided the students in the handling of the computerized driving experience while he explained the cost of being arrested under the influence. He encouraged the students to turn down a ride from an intoxicated friend or one who has had even a couple of drinks. “Make sure you have the number of a responsible adult,” he remarked. The students also joined Suffolk County Police Officers Christopher Albano and Robert Diamond, who demonstrated the steps police take in testing drivers who are suspected of being under the influence. Students volunteered to “walk the line” and take a breathalyzer test. They watched coverage and interviews of teens who had been in accidents after drinking, texting, or talking on cell phones while behind the wheel. Ms. Hanlon also provided information about texting while driving and asked students to place a thumbprint on a sign as their pledge to “X the Text.” Additionally, the program’s message was reinforced with the placement of a totaled vehicle on school grounds by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company. The car served as a reminder of the perils of unsafe behavior behind the wheel of a car. Principal Daniel Holtzman has held similar programs for several years. “It is important for the students to be aware of the dangers of texting, talking on phones, and drinking while driving. I believe programs like these help to increase their awareness and decrease some of this behavior behind the wheel,” he stated. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5858 Mon, 21 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Shoreham-Wading River School District would like to thank the community for supporting the 2012-2013 budget. The budget passed by a vote of 1,316 to 658. In addition to the budget, residents cast their vote for two additional propositions. Results for Proposition #2 are not yet available. Proposition #3 which allows a member of the senior class to become an annual non-voting, ex-officio member of the Board of Education passed by a vote of 1,329 to 559. The District would also like to congratulate Michael Fucito and Robert Rose for being elected to the Board of Education. The results of the trustee election are as follows: Anthony F. DeLouise - 807 Votes Michael Fucito – 1,030 Votes Robert Rose – 1,194 Votes http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5750 Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The District would like to congratulate senior athletes Kaitlyn Taddeo and Amanda Hearney, who have signed National Letters of Intent to continue playing field hockey on the collegiate level this fall. Kaitlyn will attend Fairfield University in Connecticut, while Amanda will attend Drew University in New Jersey. Both students were joined by their parents, Coach Lea Calligeros, and Director of Athletics, Health and Physical Education Kenneth Marlborough as the girls signed their names to the letters of intent. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5726 Mon, 14 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The PTAs and PTOs of Wading River, Miller Avenue, and Briarcliff Elementary Schools would like to thank the students and parents who participated in the SWR “Food Train.” For the past several weeks, the students in each school have been placing decorated cardboard boxes filled with non-perishable food behind constructed paper train engines. Students at Wading River formed the “Wading River Express,” Miller Avenue created the “Miller Avenue Torpedo,” and Briarcliff formed the “Briarcliff Express.” All together, the trains delivered 1,803 pounds of food to St. Anselm’s, St. Mark’s, and St. John’s food pantries to help feed families in need. “These pantries give food to over 100 families each week, and our kids’ donations help these families in need,” PTA representative Anna Acker stated. “Thank you for your generosity and for making this food drive a success.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5604 Mon, 07 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5542 Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students in Jill Stevenson’s class at Miller Avenue Elementary School completed an in-depth research unit on Japan. As part of their studies about this fascinating country, the class created a detailed nonfiction A-to-Z picture book highlighting the interesting facts they had learned. The unit culminated in a range of activities, which included classmates sharing their important new knowledge with one another and reading Haiku poetry with their peers and family members. Some of the students even took the opportunity to dress in kimonos. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5544 Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Tuesday, May 15, 2012 There are two (2) Board members whose terms of office will expire on June 30, 2012. Board packets containing requirements, pertinent information to run for office, and a blank petition needed to obtain signatures will be available for pick up in the District Office March 12, 2012. Petitions require a minimum of 53 resident signatures and are due to the District Clerk prior to April 16, 2012. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4890 Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5499 Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here to View the Schedule http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5503 Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The District is pleased to announce that three high school student-artists have been recognized for their outstanding artwork in two regional competitions. Jason Novetti and Casey DePalma’s photography won Best In Show during the Long Island Media Arts Competition at Five Towns College. The annual venue provides opportunities for Long Island students to enter media artwork in a juried competition. In addition, Anna Simos was named the winner of the 2012 Astoria Federal Savings Teen Photo Contest. This year’s theme was “Eye on Style.” Anna won a $250 cash prize and a $100 grant for the photography program, and her photography will also be featured in LIU Post’s ninth annual 12x12 High School Art Exhibition from May 4-May 10. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5478 Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT A seven-member cast took center stage this weekend for a comedic performance of Brighton Beach Memoirs. The play, originally written and produced by Neil Simon, is a coming-of-age comedy about Eugene Morris Jerome, a Polish-American teenager who experiences the issues of growing up and a search for identity while living in a crowded home in Brighton Beach, Brooklyn. Play director Mary Hygom explained that the student cast and crew prepared for this performance beginning in February. The thespians gave three performances in the high school auditorium on April 26 through April 27, as well as an afternoon senior citizen performance. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5404 Wed, 25 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5380 Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students enrolled at Briarcliff, Wading River, and Miller Avenue Elementary Schools are hosting a “food train” from April 23 to May 2 to help those in the community who are less fortunate. Each student has been asked to decorate a box or shoebox and to fill it with food pantry needs. As the boxes are brought to school, they will be attached to the ever-growing train that will snake through the halls of the three elementary schools. Food donations will be brought to St. Anselm’s, St. Mark’s and St. John’s food pantries. Items needed for the food pantry include: Bar soap Baby food Canned fruit Canned beans Cereal Coffee Dishwashing soap Jelly/jam Juice Laundry detergent Paper towels Peanut butter Pudding Rice Shampoo Snacks Tomato sauce and pasta Sugar Toilet paper Tuna http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5373 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT There is nothing like a great story to inspire children to read. At Briarcliff Elementary School, the students celebrated this essential skill and favorite pastime during the PTA-funded Reading is Fundamental (RIF) program. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steven R. Cohen read to a number of first-grade classrooms. In addition, characters Pippi Longstocking and author Laura Numeroff’s pig from If You Give a Pig a Party visited the classrooms and gave each child a free book. RIF is a national organization whose vision is to promote a literate America in which all children have access to books and discover the joys and value of reading. RIF provides new, free books for children to choose and make their own. In Ms. Walter’s first-grade classroom, Dr. Cohen read Eric Carle’s The Very Quiet Cricket to celebrate the onset of spring. The students also discussed how readers can learn facts from fiction books. In addition, each first grader received a copy of Ms. Numeroff’s popular book. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5295 Tue, 17 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students throughout the country try their hand at learning a foreign language, but rarely receive the chance to practice their newly acquired skill in a foreign country. This was not the case for Prodell Middle School students enrolled in Sharon Kommor’s French classes. A group of 18 hard-working language students and their chaperones had the opportunity to practice the French language firsthand on a recent trip to Quebec and Montreal. During the trip, the students visited the cities’ splendid points of interest. They were most impressed with their visit to an ice castle, shopping in a high-end mall in Montreal, and riding behind sled dogs in the snowy countryside. The students hiked in snowshoes and were taught several native dances while mingling with the locals at a community center. When the students returned to school, they were instructed to give a presentation to the middle school’s sixth-grade French students, who will hopefully take the same trip. The younger students asked whether the travelers felt as if they had been to a foreign country, since Canada is on the northern border of the United States. The students answered that the frequently spoken French language and a difference in the clothing reminded them that they were not in the United States. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5226 Tue, 10 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Student-scientists at Wading River Elementary School applied the scientific method to experiments and research during the school’s annual science fair. Approximately 150 students participated in this voluntary science activity, basing their presentations on the Brookhaven National Laboratory rubric. “Teachers helped to make this a special year by encouraging participation,” science fair advisor Marcel Brown stated. The projects were displayed in the school gym for all of the students to explore. A team of 18 Advanced Placement science students from the high school was responsible for the judging. During the evening, the students and their family members were treated to a night of science activities. There were fun exhibits like Mad Science, which taught the students how to make goo, as well as presentations by Dr. Fred Stumm of the U.S. Geological Survey and meteorologists Fran Turecamo and John Murray. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5177 Tue, 03 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT The District congratulates Emily McNally and Jessica Filangeri for having earned the titles of Valedictorian and Salutatorian, respectively, for the Class of 2012. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steven Cohen and High School Principal Daniel Holtzman presented the girls as the top two students during an early morning breakfast attended by family, teachers, and guidance counselors. Not breaking with tradition, Mr. Holtzman then announced the news over the loudspeaker to all of the students. Information about Emily’s and Jessica’s academic and co-curricular pursuits and achievements will be included in the summer newsletter, which will be delivered to homes in July. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5118 Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here to Read the Article http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5124 Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Each year, it is a right of passage for seniors to anxiously await the acceptance envelope from colleges or universities for which they have applied. The following seniors, however, have already been accepted to higher academic institutions during the early decision and early application acceptance processes. The District would like to congratulate these students on their road to higher learning. Dylan Bates – SUNY Delhi William Bland – Bucknell University Katie Boden – University of Massachusetts-Amherst Ashley Buckley – Florida Sothern College Jacklyn Buhler – SUNY Oneonta Trevor Brosco – Notre Dame Kim Giacalone – SUNY Binghamton and Northeastern University Dylan Gorman – Middlebury College Dan Hauser – University of Maryland Amanda Hearney – Drew University Emma Houlihan – Southern New Hampshire University Chelsea Hughes – Philadelphia University John Keck – United States Navy Loren Keith – Gettysburg College Erin Kelly – SUNY Plattsburgh Taylor Lutjen – Siena College Christopher Mahoney – Ohio State Madeline Massa – SUNY Stony Brook, SUNY Oneonta, and Siena College Shannon McDonnell – Yale Emily McNally – Brown University and Cornell University Hope Middleton – Southern Illinois University Anthony Naso – Stevens University Kari Quinn – Syracuse University Stefan Ringer – Berklee College of Music Pat Steinbrecher – SUNY Oneonta Kaitlyn Stanton-Taddeo – Fairfield University Kristin Torres – Fairfield University Ryan West – University of Buffalo http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5048 Sun, 25 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for more Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4987 Tue, 20 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Prodell Middle School student Jordan McClintock has been selected as a third-place winner in the fourth annual Hispanic Heritage Month Essay Contest hosted by Cablevision’s Power to Learn. The sixth-grade student’s essay answered the question put forth by the cable company about what it means to be of Latino or Hispanic heritage. Students from approximately 5,000 schools throughout Cablevision’s service area participated in the essay contest. Jordan read her eloquent essay during an assembly in which she received accolades from Cablevision representative Martha Turner and Suffolk County Legislator Dan Losquadro, as well as a proud show of support from Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steven Cohen, Principal Dr. Linda Anthony, Assistant Principal Peggy Grosso, and her family and classmates. Legislator Losquadro told Jordan that it means a lot to have a winner from the school from which he graduated years prior. “Whichever country we are from, it is important to incorporate that heritage into the culture of the United States,” he told the students. “This is what makes and keeps us the best country on earth.” At the end of the assembly, Cablevision gave Jordan a new computer so that she can continue to write more award-winning essays. Legislator Losquadro also presented the sixth grader with a Suffolk County proclamation for having been selected as an essay winner. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4977 Sun, 18 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4939 Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students attending Briarcliff Elementary School listened to two different pledges on March 12 - the Pledge of Allegiance and the Girl Scout Promise. Members of the Girl Scouts of America who attend the elementary school celebrated the organization’s 100th anniversary by dressing in their vests and taking a photo in the front of the school with Principal Patricia Nugent. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4899 Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Mar. 1, 2012: Watch as MSG Varsity heads to Shoreham-Wading River High School as 25 schools from Suffolk County come together to spread leadership and pay it forward at Compassion Without Borders. Watch video here http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4861 Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Eleventh-grade students in Ruth Squillace’s United States History and Government class found a creative way to reinforce their newly acquired knowledge of important African American historical figures. During Black History Month, the students created a unique bulletin board in the hall of the B wing. Budding artist Asael Romero conceived the idea of a rendering of President Obama holding his iPad with apps for these important historical figures. “This project was a great way to connect with the students through technology,” Ms. Squillace stated. “The students also had a really fun time strategizing and putting together the bulletin board while learning about the historical figures.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4797 Mon, 05 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT New York State Regent Roger Tilles participated in a candid discussion about educational reform and the Annual Professional Performance Review (APPR) during the District’s fifth community forum. The topic of the evening was “NYS Regents Reform Agenda and Lifelong Learning: Friends or Foes,” and was headlined by Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steven Cohen and teachers Mary Hygom and Robert Verbeck. Regent Tilles, who represents Long Island, agreed with many of Dr. Cohen’s objections to the reform agenda and APPR. In order for school districts in New York to receive monies from the federal government’s Race to the Top program, the state must comply with a professional performance review of teachers. New York State has since developed APPR, and all schools must be compliant with the review process by 2013. Regent Tilles agreed that while there should be a teacher evaluation program in place, the Race to the Top agenda really should be meant for less than ten districts statewide and only two or three on Long Island. He also agreed that “succeeding” Long Island school districts should be relieved of mandates such as APPR. “There are different needs in different districts, so why burden all school districts with onerous costs?” Regent Tilles remarked. He also hinted at other future reforms being discussed by the Board of Regents. In three to four months, the state will witness new graduation requirements, and a system to increase standards will have been created. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4726 Tue, 28 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Wading River Elementary School students showcased their dramatic talents during the school’s annual play. Under the direction of Executive Director Paula Albert-Franz and Assistant Director Jeremy Impellizzeri, beloved children’s book characters from The Phantom Tollbooth, written by Norton Juster, came to life. The Phantom Tollbooth, Jr. is the tale of a boy named Milo who must save the princesses Rhyme and Reason and reunite the brother kings who rule over the cities of Dictionopolis and Digitopolis. During his journey, Milo brings harmony to the Land of Wisdom and learns about words and numbers. His most important lesson, however, is that everything we learn has a purpose, and that everything we do affects others. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4703 Mon, 27 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Elementary school students paid homage to the traditional weather forecasting of Punxsutawney Phil by participating in educational activities that combine art, math, and science. At Briarcliff Elementary School, kindergarten students in Robin Nicroti’s class studied groundhogs and read a book by Susan Korman entitled “Wake Up, Groundhog!” The unit culminated in the crafting of groundhog shadows out of construction paper. The students practiced tracing and using scissors as they traced, cut out, and decorated brown groundhogs with a black construction paper shadow. In Regina Hoppey’s kindergarten class, the students put their knowledge of prediction and graphing to the test. Ms. Hoppey indicated that since 2003, her kindergarten classes have been making predictions about whether the groundhog will see his shadow on Groundhog Day. During this combined art, science, and math activity, the students first decorated groundhog cutouts. These cutouts were then placed on a board under the words “yes” and “no” depending upon whether the students believed the groundhog would see his shadow or not. Eleven students predicted that Punxsutawney Phil would not see his shadow and eight believed he would. This activity was also an opportunity to discuss how some predictions do not come true. The activity culminated with the students coloring in a bar graph that showed where opinions were equal in number and how many differed. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4568 Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4529 Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4534 Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT As Superintendents of Long Island school districts, we are deeply concerned that forced budget reductions will negatively affect our students. As you know, a property tax cap has been put into place to bring relief to New York residents in these tough times. While the tax cap is meant to help our communities, we are concerned that reductions in programs and services will decrease our ability to teach our children. As residents of Long Island, you are impacted by the schools even if you do not have children enrolled; therefore, your voice is important. We would like to hear your opinions about school budgets, programs and services. Your answers to the questions on this survey will help us to make decisions and address our financial situation. Please be assured that your responses will be kept confidential and that your individual answers will not be shared. Thank you for sharing your views. Click here to take the survey http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4305 Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4523 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT The District understands the impact of the home connection to student success as early readers and the importance of instilling a love of literacy prior to being enrolled in school. In an attempt to raise future bookworms, preschool students, accompanied by their parents and siblings, were invited to Briarcliff Elementary School for a weekend reading event. Through the program Raise a Bookworm, the preschool children were paired with first-grade reading buddies who read books they either brought from home or found in the classroom. The youngsters also colored a picture with the first-grade students as a way of getting to know their new friends. “This is one of the students’ first experiences at Briarcliff Elementary School,” Director of Curriculum and Instruction Alan Meinster explained. “Not only does the event encourage a love of literacy, it also helps make these future students comfortable in their new surroundings.” Approximately 50 preschool children attended the event and were paired with 50 first-grade students. The classrooms hummed with the sound of readers, who piled on the floors and sat in some classroom reading nooks. Principal Patricia Nugent stated that the event was extremely successful and that this experience will help build a foundation for future learning experiences at Briarcliff Elementary School. The goal of Raise a Bookworm is to create a community culture of literacy through reading during infancy. The initiative is part of a new District literacy program, Grow Bookworms, which Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steven R. Cohen is attempting to expand. If you would like to submit the name of a newborn or baptized child and the parent’s information, please contact Mary Luhrs at the Office of the Superintendent at (631) 821-8105 or mluhrs@swr.k12.ny.us. The parents will receive a book to read to their child during infancy. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4490 Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click here for more information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4474 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Tuesday, February 28, 2012 @ 7pm, Albert G. Prodell Middle School- The Shoreham-Wading River Central School District is pleased to announce the participation of: Regent Roger Tilles Click here for more information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4475 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4417 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here to View the Proposal http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4411 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click here for more information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4315 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Learning about the tropical rain forest is not confined to the classroom at Wading River Elementary School. During these winter months, students have been readily participating in an interdisciplinary unit entitled “The Rain Forest,” which combines physical education, science, English language arts (ELA) and technology with interesting facts about the rain forests of the world and the animals and humans who live in them. This unit takes place in the school’s gymnasium, which is decorated with raindrops hanging from the ceiling, animals that live in rain forest habitats, construction paper leaves and flora, and cutouts depicting these areas of the world. The unit encourages the students to climb the monkey bars and fishnets, scale the climbing wall, swing on the gymnastic rings, and balance on the beams. They can also pause to read information posted to the walls about rain forests. Physical education teacher John Regazzi explained that this unit is designed to capture the students’ interest while simultaneously building their strength. Teachers throughout the school are reinforcing the physical education unit with science lessons about the rain forest. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4299 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steven R. Cohen is trying to expand the District’s new literacy program, Grow Bookworms, a program that provides a book to families of newly born children in the community. The goal of this program is to create a community culture of literacy through reading during infancy. If you would like to submit the name of a newly born or baptized child and the parent’s information, please contact Mary Luhrs at the Office of the Superintendent at 631.821.8105 or mluhrs@swr.k12.ny.us. The parents will receive a token of a book to read to their child during infancy. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3918 Sun, 22 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT January 24, 2012 - Executive Session Notice January 30, 2012 - Shared Services Committee Meeting Notice January 31, 2012 - Technology Committee Meeting Notice http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4182 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Beginning tomorrow afternoon (January 13) after school, two small areas of Miller Avenue School will undergo asbestos abatement. This is a routine matter that should offer no cause for concern for parents or staff members, and we want to reassure you that all appropriate precautions will be taken in conformance with asbestos abatement regulations. Our schools have no ‘friable’ asbestos, meaning that any asbestos that exists is ‘contained’ and not open to the air. This is typical of most school buildings and many other municipal facilities in the country. Periodically, asbestos abatement projects are conducted when deemed necessary by district staff through examination of building infrastructure. In the case of Miller Avenue, we are conducting two small projects: • The insulation around a joint fitting in a gym closet has become partially dislodged. Our Director of Facilities examined the fitting, had it tested, and recommended that the insulation be removed. The area of concern is approximately 2” x 2”. • Due to a carpet replacement project in Room #20, a broken floor tile was discovered. This, too, was tested for asbestos, and recommended for abatement. These minor projects will be conducted according to all State and Federal regulations for asbestos abatement, which includes air testing. None of this work will be conducted while students and staff are in the building, and no one will return to the building until the post-abatement air quality testing is conducted over the weekend. We anticipate no issues with this project, and school will be in normal session on Tuesday after the Monday holiday. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4183 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here to View the February Committee Meeting Public Notices February 7, 2012 - Executive Session Public Notice http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4187 Wed, 11 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students at Wading River learned invaluable lessons about bullying during an Arts-in-Education assembly called “Box Out Bullying.” Not only did they learn that bullying is different from a conflict in that it happens time and again, they were told that bullies are people who are strong and set out to hurt others who are less strong. “It is not your fault if you are being bullied,” a host of the program stated. The Box Out Bullying troupe also told the students that they must be aware of and follow four points: 1. Be a teller, not a tattletale, to protect someone who is being bullied. 2. Do not bully or pick on others. 3. Have empathy toward others. 4. Try to include students who are being left out. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4154 Mon, 09 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4108 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Kindergarten and first-grade students at Briarcliff Elementary School participated in a school tradition of reading by the fire with a family member during the school’s annual Fireside Read-In. Physical education teacher Dee Gilroy and helper elves transformed the gymnasium/all-purpose room into a winter wonderland with holiday trees, lights and a cozy fireplace. The activity commenced with the students’ singing of holiday songs, such as the “Dreidel” song and “Under the Tree,” which they practiced with music teacher Paula Albert-Franz. School Principal Patricia Nugent then welcomed the students and their guests and explained the importance of students making personal connections to the books they read, as well as connections between books and the world. The students then listened to the reading of Peter H. Reynolds’ “Rose’s Garden,” which is dedicated to Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy. After the story concluded, the students and their guests read a book from home or from the school’s collection of picture books. While the students curled up with their books in front of the fireplace, they were each given a cup of hot chocolate to celebrate the holiday season. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4090 Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Environmentalist of the Year: Alice Steinbrecher Man of the Year in Education: Kevin Mann Sportsmen of the Year: Bob Szymanski and Paul Koretzki http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4049 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Ms. McCarthy’s second-grade students at Miller Avenue Elementary School were not afraid to get their hands dirty as they sifted through owl pellets to determine what these birds of prey eat. Teaching assistant Mary Anne McCarrick collected owl pellets from area farms and provided the youngsters with tools to separate the bones of digested tiny animals from the dirt, fur, and feathers in the pellet. “The real treasures of the owl are found inside the pellet,” Principal Lou Parrinello explained during a class about owls. “This is how we can prove what owls eat.” Prior to examining the pellets, the students received a lesson on owl anatomy. They also read a New York Times article about the decrease of acorns on the East Coast and how this phenomenon will later affect the owl’s food chain. With the use of a projector, Mr. Parrinello demonstrated to students the proper way to dissect a pellet and how to match their findings to the pictures of animal bones displayed on a ditto. While working in pairs, the students enthusiastically separated the bones from the owl pellets and graphed the number of mouse, vole, bird, rat, and shrew bones to compare with other groups’ findings. The students also had the opportunity to examine their treasures under a microscope. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3828 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT There was thunderous stomping on the floor of Wading River Elementary School’s gymnasium as students attempted their newly acquired jump roping tricks as taught by David Fisher, a.k.a. the Rope Warrior. The current Guinness World Record holder demonstrated his most famous jump roping skills during two school assemblies, stressing the importance of staying in shape, doing aerobics for the heart, practicing teamwork, and overcoming the fear of failure. Mr. Fisher has appeared on the TV show Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, in addition to performing his tricks for Presidents Bush and Clinton and participating in the Summer 1994 Goodwill Games in Russia. His rope speed has been timed at over 100 miles per hour! “Don’t be afraid to mess up,” Mr. Fisher told the students. “Everyone makes mistakes.” After the PTA-sponsored assemblies, each class participated in a mini-workshop where Mr. Fisher instructed the students in some of his most famous rope tricks: the rump bump (jumping rope while on your bottom), power jumping, dribbling a ball with your feet while jumping rope, and more. Not only did the students learn that jumping rope is a great exercise, they received a fantastic workout as well. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3727 Sun, 27 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT The District’s youngest students took time out of their busy academic schedules to celebrate Thanksgiving with peers and staff during Briarcliff Elementary School’s annual Thanksgiving Feast. A paper table and decorations were spread throughout the main corridor, so that students from several different classes could celebrate the holiday together. Dressed in decorated Thanksgiving hats, the students joined their teachers in Thanksgiving songs and the “Turkey Pokey,” previously rehearsed during assemblies and in class. The event culminated with a snack of crackers and apples. Principal Patricia Nugent reminded the students that they have a lot to be thankful for. “This year, I am thankful for being principal of Briarcliff Elementary School,” Ms. Nugent stated. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3698 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the eight outstanding student-athletes who signed NCAA National Letters of Intent to continue their athletic career at the collegiate level. These high school seniors were recognized at a special reception, led by Acting Director of Health and Athletics Lynn Schwartz. During the reception, coaches honored the athletes with words of praise, highlighting each student’s athletic career at Shoreham-Wading River High School. According to Mr. Schwartz, “Signing a National Letter of Intent is very impressive; only two percent of student-athletes get this opportunity. You are all to be congratulated!” The athletes recognized were: Katie Boden, Girls Lacrosse – University of Massachusetts Emma Houlihan, Girls Volleyball – Southern New Hampshire University Alyssa Fleming, Girls Lacrosse – Stony Brook University Michael O’Reilly, Baseball – Flagler College Trevor Brosco, Boys Lacrosse – University of Notre Dame Christopher Mahoney, Boys Lacrosse – Ohio State University Michael Savino, Boys Lacrosse – Adelphi University Tyler Lutjen, Boys Lacrosse – Sienna College Also at the reception, MSG Varsity recognized Varsity Field Hockey star Debi-Michelle Jantzen, who was recently featured on the cover of MSG Varsity: The Magazine. Debi-Michelle was one of only four athletes to receive this great honor. The recognition makes her the first Shoreham-Wading River athlete and the first-ever field hockey player to be featured on the magazine. Congratulations to these fine athletes on their accomplishments! http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3670 Sun, 20 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT In recognition of Veterans Day, High School students in teacher Ruth Squillace’s class had a rare opportunity to converse with veterans who had recently served in Iraq. Army Staff Sergeant Jesse Quinn and Marine Sergeant Chris Sarlo gave candid accounts of their experiences in the Middle East, explained the reasons they decided to enlist in the military, and acknowledged that they were having difficulties transitioning back to normal life in the United States. “Please don’t take anything for granted,” Staff Sergeant Quinn told the students. “And remember that it takes a lot to make a difference in the world.” Ms. Squillace, who has hosted this annual event for the past 10 years, said the goal of the program is to expose students to the truth about military service and to what veterans have done to defend this country. “It didn’t matter what the soldiers’ politics were. When they were called, they showed up,” she stated. Prior to the introduction of the guests, Ms. Squillace provided a history of Armistice Day. High School vocalists also sang the national anthem and Caden Badalien played taps. After the assembly, many of the students stayed behind to further discuss the soldiers’ experiences with them and to personally thank them for their service. A number of students even asked to try on their light infantry gear to get an idea of what it would be like to hike in the desert with heavy baggage. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3595 Sun, 13 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Students and staff in Wading River Elementary School are honoring grandparents, cousins, spouses, and other community members for having served in the armed forces. A large bulletin board in the school has been aptly decorated for Veterans Day by displaying photographs of men and women in uniform, with individual captions that specify rank, relation to school students and staff, and the war during which they served. “This Veterans Wall of Fame also holds the photos of students who graduated from Wading River Elementary School,” Principal Steve Donohue explained. “It is important for all of us to honor and recognize our men and women who have served and are currently serving in the armed forces.” There is also a framed display of local retirees, many of whom served in World War II. Under the bulletin board are decorated receptacles for students and staff to drop conveniences for 2nd Lieutenant Brian McLaughlin and his platoon, who are now serving in the Middle East. Students in Meredith Trani’s third-grade class will also visit the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum in New York City this week. While visiting this amazing maritime museum, the students will view a film about the ship’s service in a number of wars and learn more about the United States’ role in maritime history. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3540 Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for the Public Meeting Notices http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3522 Sun, 06 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Executive Session Meeting Notice - November 15, 2011 Legislative Committee Meeting Notice - November 22, 2011 Executive Session Meeting Notice - November 29, 2011 Cancellation of BOE Meeting Notice http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3486 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Action figures, fairy princesses, and traditional goblins paraded through the playground at Briarcliff Elementary School during the annual Halloween parade. Parents lined up to see their young children dressed as their favorite characters and clapped as each class, led by a costumed teacher, walked by. After the parade, the district’s youngest students recited a Halloween poem and sang three holiday songs that they had been practicing with their teachers. The afternoon culminated in an array of educational holiday activities. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3468 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Shoreham-Wading River community gathered on October 22 for the District’s annual Homecoming festivities. A Friday afternoon pep rally in the gymnasium kicked off the celebration as the students demonstrated their Wildcat pride with cheers led by the cheerleading team and music performed by the band. Prior to the game, the District dedicated the Wildcat statue located in the high school’s main entrance. Rob Caskie, who sculpted the statue from a 270-year-old maple tree, explained that this piece of artwork was his gift to the school for having received a stellar education. The Homecoming parade then snaked around the athletic field, showcasing the artistic floats of each high school class. Students, parents, and community residents also visited booths set up by the various high school clubs. In addition, senior football team members demonstrated their appreciation for their parents during a ceremony on the field. As the team members lined up, each parent was called to receive flowers for the support given on and off the field. The Wildcats then kicked off the game against McGann-Mercy High School, securing a 28-0 victory that boosted everyone’s pride of the team and the District. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3378 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3357 Sun, 23 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Shoreham-Wading River students, staff, and members of the community donned bright orange t-shirts and walked the high school track this past Sunday in support of Liam McGuire, a Miller Avenue student who is battling a rare form of leukemia. Organized by the Natural Helpers Club, hundreds of participants made a donation at the gate and student clubs sold bumper stickers, wristbands, t-shirts, and other goods to raise a total of $21,000. All of the funds go directly to the McGuire family to help with medical costs. Natural Helpers Club advisor and health teacher Mary Mitchell explained that the community as a whole is very concerned about Liam and that the event was a wonderful way for the community to come together to help the family. Miller Avenue Principal Lou Parinello also joined the students on the track and thanked participants for their help. “A fundamental part of education is to do for others,” he stated. Under the direction of art teacher Michelle McCarthy, Miller Avenue students traced their hands and names into a heart and collectively placed their smaller hearts onto mural-sized paper hearts. The hearts were displayed at the track for all to see and are now hung in the elementary school’s hallways. “The art project’s goal was to show Liam that our hearts are with him, and that the whole school is behind him,” Ms. McCarthy explained. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3296 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Briarcliff families and staff celebrated the commencement of autumn with the annual Fall Festival. Sponsored by the PTA, the festival provided an array of activities for students to enjoy. From pumpkin decorating and sand art to simply playing on the jungle gym with friends, the festival kept children and their parents entertained all afternoon and into the evening. PTA Festival Chairperson Melissa DesRoches stated, “ This year’s festival was excellent and everyone seemed to have a wonderful time. We also raised approximately $800 for the benefit of Briarcliff Elementary School for PTA-funded activities.” Briarcliff Elementary School would like to thank the many volunteers who made this year’s event so successful. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3229 Sun, 09 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3161 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for the Public Notice http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3144 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Sponsored by: Natural Helpers All money raised will go to the McGuire Family to help Liam fight cancer! Please Join Us for A 3 mile walk Sunday October 16th 2011 9:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M. @ SWR High School Track YOU MUST BUY TICKETS IN ADVANCE • $15 for Adults • $10 for children (children 13 and under need a parent to enter) • Children under 5 enter free Cash or Check made to SWRCSD Tickets will be sold at SWR High School Oct 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, and 13 7:30 A.M. - 2:05 P.M. (in front of A-wing) *if you can not make it to buy tickets please email mmitchell@swr.k12.ny.us to set up a time to pick up tickets Details Don’t forget to wear orange!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You must have a ticket to enter the track You do not have to walk to show your support Admission includes Entrance & Bagels, Juice and Water Walk at your own pace 12 Laps =3 miles (Start when you want) Orange Items will be for sale and raffles too! We will have face painting Donations also accepted! Please email with question… Mary Mitchell mmitchell@swr.k12.ny.us http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3136 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Dr. Cohen, Superintendent of Schools, along with the Board of Education will be holding several Community Forums throughout the school year.Your participation is welcome and encouraged! Click to view the flyer Watch Videos from the Community Forum DATE/TIME/LOCATION TOPIC Thursday, October 6, 2011: 7pm@ High School Library Free society, public education: The linkbetween good public education and free,prosperous communities Thursday, November 17, 2011: 7pm@ High School Library How Schools Work Thursday, December 15, 2011: 7pm@ Middle School Library Paying for public education: budgets, unfundedmandates, economic conditions (incomes andtaxes) PART 1 Thursday, January 12, 2012: 7pm@ Middle School Library Paying for public education: budgets, unfundedmandates, economic conditions (incomes andtaxes) PART 2 Tuesday, February 28, 2012: 7pm@ Wading River All Purpose Room NY State Regents Reform Agenda and Lifelong Learning: Friends or Foes? Thursday, April 5, 2012: 7pm@ Wading River All Purpose Room The link between professional development andstudent learning Tuesday, April 17, 2012: 7pm@ Miller Ave. All Purpose Room Student Life: Growing up and coping withcompetitive athletics, demanding academics,drugs, bullying and the internet Thursday, May 10, 2012: 7pm@ Miller Ave. All Purpose Room SWR School Buildings: Long term plans forrepair and renovation http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3087 Tue, 20 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3054 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3030 Tue, 13 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Executive Session Public Notice Space and Facilities Committee Public Notice http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2989 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Students throughout the Shoreham-Wading River School District commemorated the tenth anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks with moments of silence, the wearing of patriotic colors, and the participation of activities whereby each student made a promise to improve the world. In the High School’s Peace Garden, Global Club members Julie Lindell and Samantha Lacovara rang the school’s peace bell during a schoolwide moment of silence. Principal Daniel Holtzman addressed the students with inspirational words about that fateful day. “We must never forget the legacy of that September day, a world drawn together in the common cause of freedom and our renewed devotion to it,” he stated. In addition, high school instructional support specialist Pat LeDeoux created a September 11th showcase in the library. Students also received an opportunity to select a paper “brick” on which to write a name or thought in memoriam of those who lost their lives. Under the direction of the social studies department, Middle School students participated in a moment of silence, were encouraged to wear patriotic colors, watched a presentation on the events of September 11th, and placed a leaf on one of the school’s three Trees of Hope, located in each school corridor. Each student wrote a pledge for community service or ways in which he or she can make a difference in the world on a leaf and taped it to the tree’s branches. Spearheading the project was social studies teacher Danielle Senneca, who explained, “We are trying to turn this day of tragedy into a day of patriotism. On September 12, the nation came together. Our goal today is to bring about service in this country.” Both Miller Avenue and Wading River Elementary Schools focused on the positive ways in which each student can articulate peace and service to the local community and nation. Wading River students wore patriotic colors to honor firefighters, police, emergency responders, and members of the armed forces. The students also collectively sang “Proud to Be an American” during the morning announcements. In addition, Miller Avenue students participated in an activity called Rays of Hope. The students were asked to decorate a “sun” at home and to place their photo in the middle. On the sun’s rays, they wrote ten ways to make the world a better place. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3028 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT As they disembarked from the familiar bright yellow buses that signify fall, Shoreham-Wading River students, toting backpacks filled with school supplies, were greeted by friends and teachers on September 7, the official start of the 2011-2012 school year. Prior to the opening of school, Briarcliff Elementary School students and parents were invited to the annual classroom visit. The event afforded students the opportunity to meet their new teachers and explore their classrooms prior to the first day of school. The freshman class was required to attend an annual orientation program designed to dispense knowledge of scheduling, classes, and rules and regulations, as well as to acclimate the class to their new surroundings. At Miller Avenue Elementary School, third graders participated in a scavenger hunt on opening day, helping to familiarize the students with the school facility. The scavenger hunt also added an element of fun on the first day of school and relieved first-day jitters. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steven R. Cohen commented that, despite the heavy rain, the District opened on a high note. “Teachers not only met their students, but instruction began almost immediately – always a sign of wonderful preparation by teachers, support staff and parents, as well as eager young people,” Dr. Cohen stated. “The 2011-2012 school year began as smoothly as a Yankees’ play on a long winning streak.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2983 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click to read more http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3088 Tue, 06 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Shoreham-Wading River School District once again opened the doors and athletic fields of Miller Avenue and Wading River Elementary Schools to the community’s students enrolled in the popular, annual summer recreation program called Roundout. Originally started in the early 1980s, the Roundout program ran for five weeks in July and August. The program served students entering kindergarten through sixth grade, as well as many willing student-volunteer counselors. Roundout is such a popular program that there are almost as many volunteers as there are participants. Students in grades 7-9 start as assistants to the counselors and work their way up to becoming assistant and head counselors. “This program offers a low-cost summer recreational program for the community’s children, but is also a great opportunity for students to be hired in their first job,” stated Shoreham-Wading River Coordinator of Community Programs Paul Koretzki. Through Roundout, the 350 participants were enrolled in a wide range of programs, including general recreation activities on the playground, testing their skills at board games, and creating masterpieces in the art room. Additionally, the students took part in several different theme days. Movie Day, Water Balloon Fight Day, Sports Day, and Ice Cream Social Day were just a few of the participants’ favorites. “The success of this program lies in its organization,” Mr. Koretzki explained. “But we also have a lot of great and dedicated staff to run Roundout each year.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2928 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2905 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2908 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2909 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Shoreham-Wading River School District welcomes Patricia Nugent to the position of Principal of Briarcliff Elementary School. Ms. Nugent comes to the community from the Riverhead Central School District, where she served as an elementary and middle school assistant principal. Ms. Nugent has an extensive reading instruction background. Through a Reading First grant, she previously worked as a coordinator for reading in the South Country School District. In addition, she formerly taught reading in the Smithtown School District and was a Reading Recovery teacher for first-grade students in the Huntington School District. For most of her professional career, Ms. Nugent was an elementary education teacher and taught third, fifth, and sixth- grade students in the Huntington School District, as well as kindergarten in the Woodhull Early Childhood Center in Huntington. . Ms. Nugent holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from SUNY Old Westbury and an Associate’s Degree in Advertising, Art, and Design from SUNY Farmingdale. She also earned two master’s degrees, one in Reading from Dowling College and another in School Building Administration from St. John’s University. Ms. Nugent stated that she looks forward to meeting the children on their first day of school and believes in the importance of students looking forward to attending school every day. “The first years of a child’s education are the most important years of their education and have a great influence on how they perceive learning,” she explained. Since taking her position this August, Ms. Nugent has been meeting with the Briarcliff Elementary School staff and stated that she is impressed with the conversations she has had with teachers. “They are extremely knowledgeable and have so many wonderful ideas and techniques to offer the students. I know that I will enjoy working here.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2889 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for the Letter http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2841 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2824 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click here to view the report http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2801 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click here to view the report http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2802 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT The District would like to thank artist Robert Caskie who donated a personally carved Wildcat statue, which now stands at the front entrance to the High School. Prior to graduation, the statue was mounted in the front circle to celebrate Wildcat Pride by future generations of students. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2797 Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2799 Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click here to read the notice http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2776 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT The air was filled with a vast array of emotions as the 258 graduates in the Shoreham-Wading River High School Class of 2011 processed onto the field to take the first step in the next chapter of their lives. Under the direction of David Minelli, the High School’s Concert Band played “Pomp and Circumstance” to announce the start of the district’s 35th Commencement Exercises. Student Government co-presidents Meagan Hearney and Demi Lopez led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance, while graduate Melissa McDonald sang the national anthem. Board of Education President Jack Costas welcomed friends and family to this special occasion and reminded the graduates that success is not measured in dollars and cents. “[Power and success] are the influences you retain over yourselves,” he stated. Superintendent of schools Dr. Harriet Copel held a blue crystal ball during her address to the graduates. She explained that we cannot predict what is next in this rapidly changing world. “The crystal ball reminds us of the constants in our lives,” she stated. Guest speaker Brookhaven Town Supervisor Mark Lesko explained that public education reflects the community’s investment in its students, and as a result, much is expected from those who graduate from the nation’s high schools. “You need to pay forward that goodwill and investment to others in the world,” Mr. Lesko commented. Salutatorian Michelle Gostic’s opening remarks to her fellow graduates encouraged them to set their dreams high and to take life one day at a time in order to be able to manage life’s most daunting tasks. “Simply focus on your next move, on life’s next tiny foothold,” Michelle advised. In her words of farewell, Valedictorian Rachel Szymanski acknowledged the idea that everything, whether good or bad, is temporary. She stated the mantra that “this too shall pass.” Rachel recognized her friend Kaitlyn Suarez as the embodiment of this sentiment and an inspiration to all who meet her. Rachel said to Kaitlyn, “You have taught us that no matter what the present holds, the next minute…hour…day is ours for the taking in whatever direction we wish, and that we must make the most of life’s opportunities.” Following the speeches and a stellar performance by French horn player Melaina Badalian, the graduates received their diplomas, officially becoming alumni of the Shoreham-Wading River School District. The District extends its congratulations and wishes of success and happiness to each member of the Class of 2011. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2751 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Members of the Albert G. Prodell eighth-grade class were recognized for their academic accomplishments and pursuit of excellence during the school’s annual Awards Assembly in the auditorium. Principal Dr. Linda Anthony congratulated the students for all their hard work and thanked the parents for their support. “You have challenged yourselves while attending Albert G. Prodell Middle School, and it is my hope that you will continue to work hard and challenge yourselves in everything you undertake during the next step in your education.” During the ceremony, twenty-two students received the prestigious Principal’s Award. To attain this high honor a student must acquire a 90 percent grade-point-average (GPA) in sixth and seventh grade and in the first semester of eighth grade. The honorees were: Mathew Cilibrasi Brendan Cushing Allison Dooley Alexa Ferraro RenaMary Gebbia Grace Genzano Colin Hickey Hatice Kaya Alexandra Kessel Thomas Kirby Jenna Klemfuss Brianna LaShier Marie Musiello Kristen Pisani Matthew Pluschau Robert Puckey Robert Rose Heather Sager Anna Simos Emily Sopko James Suarez James Szymanski Christian Pluschau and Anna Sciavone were recipients of the Special Presidential Achievement Award. In addition, 48 students were recipients of the Presidential Award for Educational Excellence. To receive this honor, a student must have attained a 90 percent GPA during their tenure in the middle school and must have received a mastery score on one or more assessment exams. The recipients are as follows: Philip Andolena Elisabeth Appel Nicholas Arata Daniel Beagen Theresa Bender Kelly Bennett Daniel Blake Emily Blunnie Kyle Brown Keely Cain Daniel Cidoni Courtney Clasen Manuela Cortes Lauren Daly Gavin Davis Camille Drouin-Allaire Madison Dwyer McKenna Farrell Richard Fox Aaron Fox Shaye Gulotta Justin Joseph Jillian Keane Madeline Kelly Michael Kelly Abigail Langer Natalie Lapedota Gabriella Ledda Daniel Lilly Raymond Lopez Molly Lutz Sean Mannix Liam Mears John Meier Kayla Milcetic John Montesano Alexandria Morrell Jaime Olsen Nicole Pirraglia Christian Raimondo Samantha Reese Courtney Ricca Sean Scarbrough Kristin Sicari Hayden Sierra Paige Thomas Spring Yu John Zukowski Students who excelled in individual subject areas were also honored, as follows: English – Keely Cain Honors English – Paige Thomas Social Studies – Courtney Clasen Math – Marie Musiello Integrated Algebra – Madison Dwyer Science – Brian Halpin Regents Earth Science – Spring Yu Health – Kelly Roy Art – Grace Genzano Spanish – Sean Mannix French – Courtney Ricca Physical Education – Alexandria Morrell and John Montesano Home and Careers – Mackenzie Roberts Technology – Richard Fox Band – Brandon Green Chorus – Emily Blunnie Orchestra – Emily Sopko NYS Comptroller’s Achievement Award – Kristin Pisani After the ceremony, the students and their parents were invited into the corridor for refreshments and to congratulate their friends on moving up to the high school. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2736 Wed, 22 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2708 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education is pleased to announce it has selected a Superintendent Candidate Finalist. Dr. Steven Cohen, currently the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment in the Rye City School District will be touring our schools and meeting with District Office personnel today, Monday, June 20th. Dr. Cohen extends the following greeting to the Shoreham-Wading River community: The Board of Education has kindly arranged for me to "greet and meet" members of the Shoreham-Wading River community on Monday, June 20th. I look forward to this opportunity to begin learning about your aspirations for the children and adolescents of the Shoreham-Wading River Central School District. I was attracted to your community in part because of your public commitment to "authentic assessment." In its November, 2009 "Educational Goals" statement, the Shoreham-Wading River Central School District made it clear that this community wants its young people to "demonstrate an in-depth understanding of a topic of interest" by the time they leave Shoreham-Wading River High School. This is the kind of strategic goal that good and successful schools strive to accomplish because it is this kind of learning that stimulates young people to learn about their world in serious ways—and to master the skills needed to do so. It is also the goal that has led me to seek this position because I know from personal experience how valuable this kind of education is. From my undergraduate days at Wesleyan University, where I was encouraged to design and conduct an original study in Israel of the mutual influence of religion and politics, through my graduate school days at Columbia researching and writing about American economic, intellectual and social history, to the many gratifying years I taught high school students expository writing, history, economics and philosophy (at Trinity and Roslyn), I have grown ever more convinced that superintendents—and their colleagues in administration—should articulate and defend the importance of this kind of serious learning, while marshalling the economic, political and moral resources needed to provide every young person with her or his chance to partake of this great tradition. The Shoreham-Wading River Board of Education has convinced me that this community wishes to provide its young people with such opportunities. I am honored to have been chosen to lead the way in such a journey. See you all on Monday. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2698 Sun, 19 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Civil War reenactment professionals from The Fourteenth Regiment, N.Y.S.M. Company East engaged the fifth-grade students at Miller Avenue Elementary School with the display of Civil War artifacts and discussions, according to history, on what it was like as a soldier during this time of civil strife. As part of the school’s and New York State mandated history curriculum, the fifth graders completed an in-depth study on American history this year, in particular the time between the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. While reenactment focused primarily on the Civil War, it served as a great culminating activity on the study of how this historical event ripped the country apart. During their studies, the students learned about the three top causes of the battle between North and South: disputes over industry, agriculture, and slavery. The students also discussed the creation of the country’s right to vote, listened to music and ballads from this period of time, read and acted out plays, studied Abraham Lincoln and his policies on slavery, and learned the differences between the ideals of the Confederacy and the Union. “I believe the students learned more about the Civil War through the reenactment than with traditional learning,” fifth-grade teacher Brian Wrinkle commented on the activity. Fifth grader Sarah Parker also observed how the reenactment and its associated activities reinforced the students’ learning. She commented, “I really liked hearing the songs and what they stood for.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2700 Sun, 19 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Seven student-actors from Shoreham-Wading River High School were nominated for the East End Arts Council’s 9th Annual Teeny Awards, held at Westhampton Beach High School on June 6. Among the nominees for the drama 12 Angry Men were two winners: Jennifer Etienne received best supporting actress in a drama and Mariah Brengel received Stage Manager Recognition. The 9th Annual Teeny Awards recognized student excellence in school-theater among 15 participating East End high schools. Evaluations of students were based on skill demonstrated in movement (physical expression, gesture, posture, fluidity), delivery (projection, articulation, interaction, timing, expression), and stage presence (confidence, believability, enthusiasm, charisma, dynamics). Evaluations of performance in musical productions included skills in singing and dancing technique. The student nominees were: Richard Thalman – Lead Actor in a Drama – 12 Angry Men Maryanne Agius – Lead Actress in a Drama – 12 Angry Men Chris Bogaski – Supporting Actor in a Drama –12 Angry Men Evan Fellrath – Supporting Actor in a Drama – 12 Angry Men James Meier – Supporting Actor in a Drama – 12 Angry Men Kyan Peffer – Supporting Actor in a Drama – 12 Angry Men Jennifer Etienne – Supporting Actress in a Drama – 12 Angry Men http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2680 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Students throughout Shoreham-Wading River High School have pledged to stop the use of discriminatory slurs in their everyday language and interactions. The proof is not only in the students’ careful handling of language, but also in the hundreds of names that have been autographed on the sign in the school’s A-wing as part of the Use Another Word campaign. “We are trying to bring awareness to how offensive certain words and names are to other students,” student Ben Dalecki explained. In addition, concerned student Jennifer Etienne recently wrote, directed, and starred in her play entitled “The Evolution.” The high school audience was taken through a progression of history (i.e. the Holocaust and the Civil Rights Movement) and compared how these events are talked about in the classroom and how certain ethnic groups are construed today. “It’s [the campaign] about the bigger picture and the real world,” Jennifer stated. Caption: Students (l-r) Erik Udvadia, Emilie Kulesa, Samantha Lacovara, Ben Dalecki Jackie Edward Godfrey, Emma DelliCarpini and Jennifer Etienne are standing in front of the sign where students can pledge not to use discriminatory language. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2655 Sun, 12 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for the Article http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2621 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Suffolk County School Superintendents Association (SCSSA) hosted its 17th Annual Valedictorians Luncheon to recognize Suffolk County’s highest achieving students from the Class of 2011. Board of Education members, school superintendents and administrators gathered to honor more than 60 valedictorians and their parents. Shoreham-Wading River High School Valedictorian Rachel Szymanski attended the luncheon with parents John and Kendl Szymanski, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Harriet Copel, and Principal Daniel Holtzman. SCSSA President and Bayport-Blue Point School District Superintendent Dr. Anthony Annunziato congratulated the seniors on achieving such a distinguished level of success. He encouraged them to identify the real heroes in their lives and to use their own leadership skills to become role models for others. This year’s keynote speaker was Lead Education Senior Consultant for Franklin Covey and author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens Gary McGuey. His presentation was both inspiring and engaging. Each valedictorian and superintendent received an autographed copy of his book. In addition to the valedictorians receiving a framed certificate of achievement, the Association and its corporate partners also awarded ten $500 scholarships to graduates planning to pursue a career in education or social services. This year’s valedictorians will be attending some of the finest colleges and universities in the country, including NYU, Cornell, Princeton, Yale, University of North Carolina, Georgetown, MIT, Harvard, Columbia and Duke. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2577 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click here for more information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2552 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2627 Tue, 31 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2543 Tue, 31 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Shoreham-Wading River High School seniors jumped aboard golf carts and tested their driving skills on a course directed by orange cones. The student-drivers negotiated the track according to three scenarios: as a sober driver; as one who has consumed alcohol prior to taking the wheel; and as one who regularly violates the law by texting while driving. This driving exercise was part of the second annual “Driving While Informed,” a program offered by the Suffolk County Police Department. Hosted by criminal justice students in Ruth Squillace’s class and funded by a $1,000 Allstate Insurance grant provided by agent Elizabeth Hanlon, the students acquired information on how to protect themselves behind the wheel. “This is a wonderful program, and one that will continue to remind students that texting and drinking are not safe habits if they are planning to get behind the steering wheel,” Suffolk County Police Commissioner Richard Dormer stated as he observed the program in progress. Prior to driving, the students attended an assembly in which the officers covered topics including blood alcohol levels and impairment. The seniors were then paired with a police officer and taken through a driving course that incorporated elements of real driving, such as stops and curves. On the second round, the students wore “beer glasses” to simulate visual impairment associated with inebriation as they attempted to navigate the driving course without hitting the cones. In addition, they were asked to drive while answering a text about whom they are planning to take to the prom. Everyone learned that driving while impaired held drastic implications. After the driving exercise, officers administered sobriety and Breathalyzer tests and peer educators were on hand to quiz students on facts learned during the assembly. Students were also asked to make a pledge to not text while driving. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2540 Mon, 30 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT First-grade students at Miller Avenue and Wading River Elementary Schools have been engrossed in learning about the birth cycle of ducks and chickens. For the past several weeks, the students have been observing the hatching of fertilized eggs donated by Ty Llwyd Farm and the quick growth of the bright yellow, fuzzy newborns that have sprung from their incubators. This unit of study not only incorporates lessons in science, but draws strongly on the district’s literacy initiatives. Utilizing the principals of Teachers College, the teachers have instructed the students in the writing of chick-hatching journals and non-fiction books. They have also encouraged students to read library books about life on the farm and other stories about the egg-hatching process. Even mathematics has played a role in the study of the eggs. The students were asked to make predictions about the timing of each hatched egg and were instructed to create growth and weight diagrams of their chicks. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2502 Mon, 23 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2492 Thu, 19 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Shoreham-Wading River School District would like to thank the community for supporting the proposed 2011-2012 school budget and propositions. The budget, which was approved 1,742 to 905, places the District in a strong position to continue providing a quality program that supports student achievement. Proposition 2, which will allow storm drainage improvement at Briarcliff Elementary School, passed 1,705 to 874. In addition, Proposition 3, which will allow replacement of six underground oil tanks at four schools, was passed with a vote of 1,688 to 874. The District would also like to congratulate incumbents Jack Costas and William McGrath for being reelected to the Board of Education. John Zukowski will also take a seat in the fall as the District’s newest trustee. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2471 Tue, 17 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2440 Sun, 15 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Students at Briarcliff Elementary School shrieked with excitement as veterinary technician and animal educator Erik Callender shared his reptiles, amphibians, and arthropods during a mobile show called “Erik’s Reptile Edventures.” The students were introduced to lizards, frogs, turtles, snakes, and even an alligator named Walley! “I want to spread awareness about our environment and some of the world’s most awesome creatures,” Erik told the students during his opening remarks. Erik’s Reptile Edventures is an interactive presentation that allows students the opportunity to see, touch, and learn about the lives of his creatures from North America, South America, Asia, Madagascar, Africa, and Australia. Not only did the students learn about the habitats of Jaden the panther chameleon, Twinkie the albino Burmese python, Annie the anaconda, and Hip and Hop the Australian tree frogs, they studied a world map of all the locations from where these animal guests came. The students were able to feel the differences in the skin of toads and frog, see the skin shed on an anaconda, witness how a large snake slithers in the grass, and watch as Erik’s turtle ate its second meal after having hibernated all winter. At the end of the show, Erik even invited ten students to hold 85-pound Twinkie! http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2448 Sun, 15 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Under the guidance of Drs. Bob Sweet and Alexei Soares, students in Sherry Neff’s high school science research class have been studying the three-dimensional structure of lysozyme in its physiological conditions. Lysozyme is an enzyme that is responsible for breaking down the polysaccharide walls of bacteria to provide protection from some infection. Lysozyme is abundant in tears, saliva, mucus, human milk, and egg whites and is a natural form of protection from pathogens such as salmonella and E. coli bacterium. To understand what a protein (or an enzyme) does to its target, it is important to know the protein’s three-dimensional shape or “structure.” Ms. Neff explained that the students are studying lysozyme merely as an experiment and study. “Sometimes the goal of a study like this one is merely to understand,” she stated. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2428 Thu, 12 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT The WISE (Women in Science and Engineering) program is in its second year of implementation at the high school and has increased its enrollment this school year. WISE Program advisor Tom Tomaszewski reported that students Jessica Filangeri and Kim Giacalone, the first to enroll in this extracurricular course, are currently performing biomedical engineering experiments at Stony Brook University under the direction of professor Jonathan Liu and graduate student Steve Leigh. These young women researching the combination of real-time delineation of brain tumor margins with miniature microscopes to guide brain tumor resection during surgery. “These students are acquiring real exposure to the fields of engineering and science,” Mr. Tomaszewski stated. “They are offered opportunities not available on campus, as well as a collaborative experience that is the real essence of science.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2401 Sun, 08 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT A majority of Shoreham-Wading River High School’s seniors have completed their college acceptances. The District is proud to announce that these future co-eds were awarded approximately $2.75 million in scholarships from academic institutions including George Washington University, Tufts University, Bryn Mawr College, Johns Hopkins University, Columbia University, Hunter College, the Juilliard School, and SUNY Geneseo, to name a few. These talented seniors are all looking forward to graduation, which will take place on June 25 at 9:00 a.m. Photo 2: These AP Physics students have also completed the college application process. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2391 Wed, 04 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2324 Tue, 03 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT May 18, 7 P.M. High School Auditorium Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2373 Mon, 02 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2378 Mon, 02 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT The District congratulates Rachel Szymanski and Michelle Gostic for having earned the titles of Valedictorian and Salutatorian, respectively, for the 2010-2011 school year. The administration made an official announcement on the High School’s loudspeaker while the honored students were having breakfast with their families and members of the staff. During her tenure at the High School, Rachel not only excelled at academics, but was involved in many extra-curricular activities. She was recognized as an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction and served as corresponding secretary of the National Honor Society. As a violinist and member of the school’s Jazz and Chamber Orchestras, Rachel was selected to participate in the SCMEA All-County, NYSSMA All-State and the Long Island Strings Festivals (LISFA). She also plays women’s lacrosse. Rachel plans to pursue a career in medicine this fall. Michelle is also an Advanced Placement Scholar and member of the National Honor Society and serves as a PTSA student delegate. When not in the classroom, sports are a passion for Michelle. She plays softball, basketball, and cross-country and recently received the designation of All-League for basketball. After graduation, Michelle plans on pursuing a career in environmental engineering. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2356 Sun, 01 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2322 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT The District would like to congratulate the following athletes who have signed National Letters of Intent to play lacrosse at East Coast colleges and universities this coming fall. They are pictured with (l-r) Director of Health, Athletics, and Physical Education Kenneth Marlborough, Coach Gene Gersbeck, Coach Tom Rotanz, and Shoreham-Wading River High School Principal Daniel Holtzman. Matt Cassella – College of St. Rose Paul Curran, Jr. – Assumption College Kerry Craig – Assumption College Peter Gersbeck – Endicott College C.J. Higgins – Tufts University Michael Malave – Hofstra University Kris Miller – College of St. Rose Tom Rotanz – Dowling College http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2310 Sun, 24 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT The District believes that there is a connection between healthy habits and learning. In an effort to empower students to become more focused and physically fit, the District hosted its first annual Wellness Fair in the high school gymnasium. The event, sponsored by a Stop n Shop Action for Healthy Kids grant, enabled vendors throughout Long Island to discuss avenues for healthy living with members of the school community. Admission to the event was free. Registered dieticians representing the Long Island Dietetic Association surprised visitors with their visual display of one pound of fat versus five pounds of muscle. The vendors also encouraged students to make a plate of food that represented their normal eating patterns. They were then advised about how a healthy plate should look. There were booths on alcohol and drug awareness and a hands-on display demonstrating the benefits of massage. Students and residents could also visit the Cornell Cooperative Extension booth to learn about the connection of food colors to healthy eating. Some students even allowed Peconic Ear, Nose and Throat technicians to examine their ears with a video otoscope. District Wellness Committee member Michelle Loesch explained that the Wellness Fair was a great success in making students and the community more aware of healthy living options. “We wanted to bring awareness of the importance of good nutrition, healthy living, and physical exercise during school and throughout life,” she stated. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2280 Sun, 17 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2270 Thu, 14 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT Under the direction of teacher Artie Gross and production manager and teacher Danielle Senecca, a cast of sixty students at Prodell Middle School presented stellar performances of the American musical classic Music Man, Jr. for students, faculty, parents, and the community. The play followed the story of the fast-talking traveling salesman Harold Hill and his visit to River City, Iowa. There he falls in love with the spinster librarian Marion Paroo and causes commotion in the meantime. The cast was selected through auditions and has been practicing their lines and scenes since January in preparation for this outstanding performance. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2250 Sun, 10 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2209 Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT April 11, 2011 High School Auditorium 7:00-9:00 P.M. No Admission Fee Please register to attend at http://rtnshorehamwadingriverhs.eventbrite.com/ http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2189 Mon, 04 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2172 Sun, 03 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2161 Wed, 30 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2150 Tue, 29 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2094 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2095 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Shoreham-Wading River School District is pleased to announce the recent findings of an audit conducted by the New York State Comptroller’s Office, which states that the district dramatically improved its financial status. For more information, please click on the links below. Link to Newsday Article (PDF) Link to State Comptrollers Report (PDF) http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2111 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2115 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT When most students sign up for community service, their efforts are felt locally. Eight Global Awareness Club students, however, invested their time and energy as Hope Children’s Fund volunteers and recently returned from a two-week trip to the Jerusha Mwiraria Hope Children’s Fund Home in Kenya. Under the direction of club advisor Kevin Mann and with the help of adult volunteers, Emma DelliCarpini, Samantha Lacovara, Julie Lindell, Patrick Pitts, Leighanne Reinhardt, Kyle Reinhardt, Meghan Spillane, and Anya Uzo delivered textbooks and supplies to Kenyan schools and helped with the development of a technical training center. The students also helped the community to upgrade an irrigation system and delivered medical supplies to local hospitals. For four years, Mr. Mann has headed the school program that has partnered its efforts with the Hope Children’s Fund. For months, the students and community have collected donations of school and medical supplies, books, and clothing in a container situated in the high school parking lot. The club members have diligently raised funds totaling $11,000 to help pay for the $14,000 shipping price tag of the container to Kenya. “It is not an easy process,” stated Mr. Mann, “but the students are definitely motivated to help the orphans in Kenya.” Kenya is currently faced with an AIDS pandemic that has left thousands of children to fend for themselves. A burgeoning population, government mismanagement, a breakdown of vital infrastructure, and a two-year drought prevent many of the children from receiving basic services and schooling. These problems are compounded with 45% of the population being under the age of 14, and 50% of the population remaining unemployed. Hope Children’s Fund volunteers have converted an empty church building into a residence for 57 children between the ages of 3 and 15. The Jerusha Mwiraria Hope Children’s Fund Home also holds a dormitory for students and staff, classrooms, dining hall, and kitchen. Julie Lindell made her third trip to Kenya with the club. “It’s hard to believe that the children are so happy, even though they have nothing,” she stated. It was Anya Uzo’s first trip to Kenya, a trip that she says has changed her outlook of the world. “It was an awakening,” she said. “I now look at the world differently. Even a chair looks differently to me now. In the orphanage, all of the children’s possessions can fit into one small trunk.” Samantha Lacovara expressed disdain at the conditions of the area hospitals. She witnessed three children per hospital bed, with bandages that had not been changed regularly. The hospital’s operating rooms were splattered with blood from recent surgeries. Even though conditions are rough and the people lack possessions and services, Julie Lindell described them as “always happy and generous.” This was also Patrick Pitts’ first time to Kenya, and he explained how lucky he felt when he looked out of the window of the bus in which the club members traveled. Patrick works in a restaurant as a busboy and now wishes he could donate the food that customers throw out after their meal. “We were on this trip for only two weeks,” Samantha added. “However, our hearts and minds will be there forever.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2079 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT During the Wading River Elementary School Science Fair, approximately 140 students at Wading River Elementary School tested which drink does the most damage to a chicken bone, which meat contains the most fat, and what causes goggles to fog up. These voluntary activities drew the largest number of participants thus far, whose experiments were judged by students enrolled in Advanced Placement science courses and the Science Research class. Marcelle Brown, who co-chaired the science fair with Terri Sauerbrun, explained that the students followed the scientific method: stating the problem, formulating a hypothesis, listing materials, performing an experiment, analyzing data, and drawing a conclusion. “The student-scientists were given recommendations to make their experiments better and had the opportunity to explain why their experiments may or may not have proven their hypotheses,” Ms. Brown stated. One winner, chosen from each grade level, will have the opportunity to enter his or her experiment in the science fair at Brookhaven National Laboratory on May 7. Please stay tuned for an announcement of the winners. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2033 Sun, 13 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT Message from Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Harriet Copel, in response to audit released by the Office of the State Comptroller The Shoreham-Wading River School District and Board of Education would like to thank the Office of the State Comptroller for its review of the district’s financial condition. The district is pleased with the outcome of the audit’s findings, which states that the district dramatically improved its financial status during a two-year period from June 2008 to June 2010. The district was able to overcome a nearly 2.8 million dollar deficit, mainly caused by a lack of receiving prior years’ state aid, by closely monitoring the budget, reducing expenditures, utilizing reserve funds, and increasing real property taxes. The district will continue to work on strengthening our district’s financial operations by closely monitoring our revenues and expenditures. The complete audit can be found at: http://www.osc.state.ny.us/press/releases/mar11/030911.htm NYS Comtroller’s Report of Examination (Audit Report) http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2023 Wed, 09 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education of the Shoreham-Wading River School district would like to acknowledge the unprecedented “Above and Beyond” that occurred over the past two weeks. District personnel, from top to bottom, threw away their personal time to ensure that the Briarcliff situation was thoroughly investigated while planning alternative means to ensure that our youngest treasures lost little instructional time and gained an incredible experience. All the while their concern was threefold – the children whose learning environment was impacted, the parents of those treasures - making sure that with each step they took in this process that they did their utmost to ensure the children would be safe and continue to be educated despite the necessary “change of scenery”, and that everything possible was done to ensure their school would be a safe and nurturing environment upon their return. We congratulate all those involved, their depth of concern for the displaced children and staff, ensuring a great experience for all in strange environments, is to be celebrated. That all this could be accomplished within 10 days is almost unbelievable and a testament to the dedicated staff we have in our district. It is amazing, we have a staff that not just do their job, but seek answers to what they encounter day to day. From Corrie Ames, who asked “why did these ceiling tiles fall”, to our Facilities people, our District administration, the elementary principals, and the teachers and staff of all our elementary building who worked to make sure the kids were safe and educated and nurtured, we say “Thank you”. We also wish to offer our thanks to all involved with the work done at Briarcliff School, finishing their work quickly and correctly, allowing the State Education Department to reissue the Certificate of Occupancy for this week. We urge all in our community to join in saying “Thank you” for a job well done. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2013 Tue, 08 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT On March 2, students at Briarcliff, Miller Avenue and Wading River Elementary Schools celebrated the birthday of popular author Dr. Seuss by participating in the National Read Across America event. Not only did the students read the cherished author’s most famous books, including “The Cat in the Hat,” “The Foot Book,” and “Green Eggs and Ham,” they read other popular favorites and, in many cases, teamed up with younger buddies in a variety of activities throughout the day. In Kelly Ford’s class at Miller Avenue Elementary School, the students read “The Foot Book” to Briarcliff Elementary School reading buddies and then helped the younger students create their own “Foot Books” to take home. In addition to Briarcliff Elementary School teachers reading the kindergarteners a variety of Dr. Seuss masterpieces, the students were also instructed on how to make Dr. Seuss hats, similar to the famous striped hat of “The Cat in the Hat.” Not all the books being read were by Dr. Seuss. Danielle Algiere’s class at Miller Avenue chose to read aloud “The Hot and Cold Summer” by Johanna Hurwitz. The students were instructed to make inferences and predictions based on their reading and to decipher each of the character’s traits. Sponsored by the National Education Association (NEA), Read Across America is the nation’s single largest reading event that encourages students of all ages to open a book and read. The event occurs annually on or near Dr. Seuss’ birthday (March 2). http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1991 Sun, 06 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1904 Thu, 03 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT Kindergarten and first-grade students from Briarcliff Elementary School are adjusting well to their temporary classrooms at Miller Avenue and Wading River Elementary Schools. Since Tuesday, the district’s youngest students have taken residence there due to a crack in one of the wood ceiling trusses in the multipurpose room at Briarcliff Elementary, rendering the school unsafe for occupancy. At Miller Avenue and Wading River Elementary Schools, colorfully decorated signs welcomed the kindergarten students and first graders as they were escorted to temporary classrooms in the libraries, gymnasiums, and music rooms. At Miller Avenue, first-grade teacher Carrie Fox and Miller Avenue fourth-grade teacher Karla Roberts took the opportunity to group fourth graders with the younger students in a Buddy Read program. The younger students received a firsthand glimpse of the reading strategies being utilized with fourth-grade nonfiction books. Throughout the day, third graders also joined in on activities to celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday. Ms. Polonski’s third-grade class read “The Foot Book” by Dr. Seuss and then helped the kindergarten students create their own “Foot Book” to take back to Briarcliff Elementary School the following week. Miller Avenue Principal Lou Parrinello reported that the students were excited about their young visitors, and that the Briarcliff students adjusted very well to their temporary surroundings and enjoyed making some older friends. “It has been a really positive experience,” he stated. At Wading River Elementary School, the library and gymnasium were sectioned to accommodate the students’ desks. Kindergarten teachers Rob Korchma and Sue Walter took the opportunity to team-teach a unit on birds. Using a SMART Board, the students were instructed on how to make a field guide to identify birds. In the gymnasium, leave replacement teacher Kaitlyn Maines celebrated Dr. Seuss’ birthday with her students by reading Dr. Seuss books and making Dr. Seuss hats. Orchestra students at Wading River took the opportunity to play for the younger students during the school day. “The staff at both Miller Avenue and Wading River Schools has worked extremely hard to make the students as comfortable as possible,” Briarcliff Elementary School Principal Jane Ruthkowski stated. “All of the students’ instruction is in place, and Mr. Parrinello and Mr. Donohue (Wading River Elementary School Principal) have been the best hosts. Even though the classroom spaces are not ideal, we have made the best out of a difficult situation.” Ms. Ruthkowski also reported that the shoring of the trusses in the multipurpose room has been completed. The workers are currently placing safety doors inside the corridor of the affected space, so that no one can enter the multipurpose room without a key to the installed safety locks. The work is actually one day ahead of schedule, but the school must still be inspected by the New York State Education Department. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1981 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1968 Mon, 28 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Ten Shoreham-Wading River High School students were selected as winners in the 2011 Suffolk County Regional Distributive Education Club of America (DECA) Competition held at Suffolk County Community College in January. DECA is a national organization that provides its members with leadership skills and educational business leadership. It is a competitive business and marketing club for students in high school who are interested in marketing, finance, hospitality, management and entrepreneurship. The district would like to congratulate the following students: Michael Amablie – Broadcast Advertising Kaitlyn Brown – Decision Making/Human Resources Justyn Ceruti – Apparel Accessories Marketing Ashley Holmes – Apparel Accessories Marketing Felicia DaVolio – Decision Making Marketing Madison Hubner – Food Marketing MacKenzie Hubner – Public Speaking Danielle Kennedy and Alexa Lehnig – Buying and Merchandising Management Charlie DeNoto – Successimo in Finance http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1965 Sun, 27 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1935 Wed, 23 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1918 Sun, 20 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT There was booming applause and fits of laughter as fifth-grade students from Miller Avenue Elementary School performed “Rats - The Musical” for peers, parents, and the community. The play was based on the “Pied Piper of Hamelin” by Robert Browning. This new version of the original story showcased rats that are punks and plague Hamelin and the Pied Piper, who has rock star charisma. In addition to the talented fifth-grade cast, the audience was treated to memorable music with witty lyrics. It was a fun evening for all! http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1919 Sun, 20 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT On Mon., Feb. 28, there will be a spring sports pre-season parent meeting @ 6:30 PM in the HS auditorium. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1867 Tue, 15 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT In preparation for Presidents’ Day, students at Wading River Elementary School welcomed Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, to their school. President Lincoln, portrayed by actor Lou Del Bianco, spent the morning sharing stories with the students. He began by telling them about his childhood growing up on a farm and how his father taught him a valuable life lesson. “When I first tried learning how to ride a horse, my father taught me to never give up. That lesson stuck with me throughout my entire life,” President Lincoln stated. President Lincoln discussed his love of reading as a child and how he always kept learning, despite only spending a total of 11 months in school growing up. He then entertained the children with his guitar and asked them to join him in singing songs such as “I’ve Been Working on the Railroad” and “Skip to My Lou.” During the assembly for fourth and fifth graders, several students were asked to read letters that children had written to President Lincoln in the 1800s. In one letter, the student read, “If you let your whiskers grow, you would look a great deal better for your face is so thin.” President Lincoln concluded his visit to Wading River by sharing some sound advice with the students. He said, “I hope you take some of the life lessons I learned home with you today. Love to read. Love your mom and dad. Try to not to want too much.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1848 Sun, 13 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Public Meeting has been cancelled. Policy Meeting is still scheduled. Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1800 Sun, 13 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1813 Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1788 Sun, 06 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Applause resounded through the halls of Shoreham-Wading River High School as fifth-grade students from Wading River Elementary School broke a leg during several fun-packed performances of “Seussical” in the high school auditorium this past weekend. The whimsical musical is based on the books of Dr. Seuss that debuted on Broadway in 2000. The play’s story is a complex amalgamation of many of the author’s most famous books, but centers on Horton Hears a Who! Horton the elephant endeavors to protect the citizens of Who-ville, who live on a speck of dust. Parents and students alike clapped for the stellar student performances and could not help but tap their feet to the songs. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1805 Sun, 06 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1770 Wed, 02 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT The students at Briarcliff Elementary School have been “whittling” their way under, over, and through the athletic equipment in the gymnasium during physical education classes this January. The unit is called Whittle Gym, and the goal is for the district’s youngest students to use muscles in concert with problem-solving skills. Physical education teacher Di Gilroy set up the fun-filled courses with decorated walls and various creatures set below the gym equipment. Each week, the height of the equipment changes and the courses become more complicated throughout the month. “You can see that the students’ thinking process changes throughout the month, and the students actually become more confident,” Ms. Gilroy noted. “Not only do the students need to use their muscles, but they have to think of how they will complete each course.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1742 Sun, 30 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT First-grade students in Ms. Malave’s class at Briarcliff Elementary School have been learning the art of persuasion by writing letters to community members, parents, and their principal, Jane Ruthkowski. The students learned how to ask a favor or suggest a solution. They also learned that the most likely way to get results is by providing well thought-out reasons. Using the acronym “OREO,” the students were instructed to form an opinion (O), identify a reason for the opinion (R), explain their reasoning (E), and restate their opinion (O). “Children of this age are naturally masterful at the art of persuasion,” Ms. Malave explained. For example, student Ivan Cruz sent a letter to President Obama. He presented him with the argument that people should stop cutting down trees in this country so we can preserve the air quality. Laci Scirenammano wrote a letter to Ms. Ruthkowski to persuade her to send students to school in a limousine instead of a school bus. One student also wrote to Dunkin’ Donuts. The argument was that the employees, even though they wear gloves, should not touch money and then touch food. Some of the students received an answer from their targeted audience. Ms. Ruthokowski noted that she has been extremely busy answering all the students who wrote her a letter. Parents were also instructed to write back to their child upon receiving a persuasive letter. “This exercise gave them the opportunity to see how the real world works. They learned that they have to ask for things with a valid argument,” Ms. Malave stated. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1730 Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Watch this MSG Varsity link to see the latest story about Mr. Jason Andria’s photography students, whose photos were chosen as labels on Jones Soda bottles. http://www.msgvarsity.com/tv-shows/high-school-journal?p= Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE /* 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:"Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} Jones Soda 2011 “Staff Picks” Audrey Ricca “Birthday Cake” http://www.jonessoda.com/gallery/view.php?ID=1208606&search[imagetype]=staffpick&offset=12 Alyssa Filangeri “Big Eyes” http://www.jonessoda.com/gallery/view.php?ID=1208493&search[text]=shoreham&search[imagetype]=staffpick&offset=2 Madison Hubner “Fly Away” http://www.jonessoda.com/gallery/view.php?ID=1208142&search[text]=shoreham&search[imagetype]=staffpick&offset=3 Celia Werner “Silhouette” http://www.jonessoda.com/gallery/view.php?ID=1206451&search[text]=shoreham&search[imagetype]=staffpick&offset=4 Audrey Ricca “Consequences” http://www.jonessoda.com/gallery/view.php?ID=1204953&search[text]=shoreham&search[imagetype]=staffpick&offset=5 Audrey Ricca “Squish!” http://www.jonessoda.com/gallery/view.php?ID=1204949&search[text]=shoreham&search[imagetype]=staffpick&offset=6 Kelly Dillon “Mirror Image” http://www.jonessoda.com/gallery/view.php?ID=1202551&search[text]=shoreham&search[imagetype]=staffpick&offset=7 Kelly Dillon “Shadowstar” http://www.jonessoda.com/gallery/view.php?ID=1199795&search[text]=shoreham&search[imagetype]=staffpick&offset=8 Kristen Curran “Lax” http://www.jonessoda.com/gallery/view.php?ID=1206747&search[text]=wading%20river&search[imagetype]=staffpick&offset=1 Alexandra Pagano “Winter Wonderland” http://www.jonessoda.com/gallery/view.php?ID=1206045&search[text]=wading%20river&search[imagetype]=staffpick&offset=2 James Myers “The View” http://www.jonessoda.com/gallery/view.php?ID=1200345&search[text]=wading%20river&search[imagetype]=staffpick&offset=3 http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1737 Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Shoreham-Wading River High School junior Debi-Michelle Jantzen has her eye on the gold. The varsity field hockey center midfielder will be traveling to Holland in April to compete with the U.S. Olympic Under 17 (U-17) Team in a tournament, which she hopes will take her one step closer to reaching her ultimate goal. Last year, Debi-Michelle placed third in the Pan American Qualifier competition. “I am hoping to get to play in the Youth Olympics in Singapore, but there are still some hurdles,” she stated. Debi-Michelle has been a member of the Futures Organization, a U.S. development program. She attended a regional competition from which she was selected to play in the national competition. From there, Debi-Michelle was selected to attend the Junior Olympics and the Junior National Competition, and was later selected for the U.S. Olympic U-17 team. She recently traveled to California for squad training. “The benefit to the U-17 team is that there are Olympic coaches working with us,” Debi-Michelle explained. “This will, hopefully, give me a chance to try for the Olympic team. Debi also finds time to focus on her studies. She has made the Principal’s List every quarter and was recently selected as a recipient of the Student of the Month Award in both English and Chemistry. During the year, Debi-Michelle also plays with the New Jersey travel team, The Edge. When she is not competing and studying, friends can find her training at the local gym. The District would like to wish Debi-Michelle best of luck in pursuing her athletic goals. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1686 Sun, 23 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1671 Thu, 20 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT For a second consecutive year, students in Ms. Danielle Senneca’s history class at Prodell Middle School decided to remain “loyal” to the Crown of England during a lively simulation of the Second Continental Congress, a convention of delegates that met in Philadelphia in 1775 soon after the American Revolution. During an assembly, the students dressed in colonial garb. Defining themselves as either Radicals or Tories, the students debated amongst themselves on the pros and cons of becoming an independent nation or remaining loyal to England. Representatives from each of the colonies paid close attention to two rounds of speeches, and questions before the final vote brought forth a result quite different from the history books. The Second Continental Congress activity was entirely student-run and organized. The young historians have been studying the American Revolution and literally stepped into the roles of a Tory, Radical, or Moderate. “The goal of this event,” Ms. Senneca noted, “was to bring history alive in the classroom.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1665 Wed, 19 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1642 Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1641 Tue, 11 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Physical education classes at Wading River Elementary School have taken on a new dimension this month. Students climb the rock wall, swing on the rings, and try hurling themselves over a six-foot wall. However, they are performing these physical activities in an atmosphere where dinosaurs line the walls of the gym and where students balance themselves on equipment while trying not to fall into a volcano full of spewing lava. The unit is called “The Land Before Time,” where students are given the opportunity to not only increase their brawn, but learn about the earth at the time of the dinosaurs. The colorful and informative interdisciplinary unit was constructed by the physical education department and in conjunction with the art department and staff. Physical education teacher John Regazzi explained that this unit is designed to keep the students’ interest while simultaneously building their strength. The students discuss biology, and in this unit, discuss what the world was like at the time of the dinosaurs. The information is then reinforced during the students’ science classes. Physical education teacher Katie Carlson noted that the unit is also designed to build the students’ upper body strength. “The rings, rock wall, and climbing are challenging for a lot of the students,” Ms. Carson stated. “We are helping them build their endurance by keeping them moving continuously.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1624 Sun, 09 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click here to read the full story... http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1608 Fri, 07 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click here to read the full story... http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1609 Thu, 06 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1602 Wed, 05 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT High school students took time out of their busy academic schedules to showcase their many talents during the school’s annual Coffee House, held in the auditorium during the school day. During two separate show times, guitarists, bands, vocalists, and dancers took the stage in front of a packed and appreciative audience to perform such titles as “New York, New York,” “Because of You,” and “Winter Song.” The event was an opportunity for students to perform, and an even greater occasion for peers to relax with friends prior to the holiday season. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1589 Sun, 02 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Briarcliff Elementary School gymnasium was transformed into a living room decorated for the holiday season in preparation for the school’s annual Fireside Read-in. Students snuggled with parents and caregivers on their blankets in front of the fireplace, Christmas trees, and winter wonderland as they read from their favorite books with cups of hot chocolate. Principal Jane Ruthkowski explained the significance of the Read-in to the adults who attended this festive literacy event. “Friends and family bring literature from outside into the school to support our love of literacy,” she stated. “It is also a great moment to introduce our Book of the Month selection that can be read over the holiday.” After a class sing-a-long and a brief discussion with the parents about the literacy program, the students were introduced to the December book selection, entitled “How to Heal a Broken Wing.” Ms. Ruthkowski read the book to the students and explained that the message demonstrates that small gestures can mean greater things. “During the holiday, think about little opportunities to help others,” she advised the students. The Read-in concluded with a book swap and a number of classroom activities to celebrate the season. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1581 Tue, 28 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT Concussion Management Program Body Mass Index http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1556 Mon, 20 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT To show appreciation for the Middle School repairs and renovations completed over the summer, nine Home and Careers students set a festive table and prepared a delicious meal for members of the Board of Education, administrators, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Harriet Copel, and Building and Grounds Director Robert Woolsey. Under the supervision of teacher Gina Ristau, the students prepared salad, lemon piccata chicken, rice, vegetables, and dessert for their guests. It was also the perfect opportunity for the students to demonstrate their cooking skills in the new classroom during the Board of Education’s special tour of the building renovations. The students also presented the Board with a large hand-crafted thank-you card, which included colored sketches of the new lockers, laptop computers, larger classrooms, and other renovations and additions to the building this school year. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1552 Sun, 19 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students in community relations classes, under the direction of teacher Kevin Mann, are once again hosting the annual Holiday Project to benefit less fortunate families in the community. Some of the activities this year included giving trees, a Santa hat sale, a produce sale, food collections, a toy drive, and collections for oil fuel. Not only did everyone who participated in this event learn a tremendous amount about themselves and others, but they also felt honored to be a part of the District’s special tradition of helping families who are truly in need this holiday season. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1508 Sun, 12 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1491 Wed, 08 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT It is never too early to learn about handling money, and eighth-grade Home and Careers students at Prodell Middle School are on their way to becoming fiscally responsible adults. TD Bank representatives Lori Gulotta and Tiffany Cataldo recently visited the students and delivered a banking unit about checking account balances, debit and credit cards, and the advantages to opening bank accounts. The students learned how to write a check and use simple math to calculate their checking and savings account balances. Each of the students then received a blank register and worked collectively with the representatives to learn how to record transactions. Ms. Gulotta and Ms. Cataldo also touched on the basics of debit and credit cards and transaction fees. “When students go to college, they often think of the debit card as free money, not realizing that they are responsible for overdraft fees and transaction fees,” Home and Careers teacher Gina Ristau stated. “By offering this class, the students learn to be accountable for their money and the advantages to saving at an early age.” After the class, each of the students received a gift bag from TD Bank and a ten-dollar coupon to set up a savings account. Their newly found knowledge was reinforced with an exercise from Ms. Ristau. Each student was given a fake account with an opening balance of $200. Laminated cards illustrated debit and credit amounts for imaginary transactions, in which the students were asked to balance a check register. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1492 Wed, 08 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1496 Mon, 06 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students at Briarcliff Elementary School, under the guidance of physical education teacher Deirdre Gilroy, collected “Sweaty Pennies” during the month of November. The “Sweaty Penny” initiative was a month-long physical activity challenge, with the goal of children exercising for a minimum of 15 minutes each day. Briarcliff students were provided with a “sneaker log,” on which they recorded their physical activity. For every 15 minutes of exercise, the students were asked to collect one penny to be brought to school. All money collected is being used to purchase food baskets for local families in need. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1459 Mon, 06 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT This year, for the first time, students at Shoreham-Wading River High School were invited to participate in the annual PTA Reflections Program, a national competition that asks students to express themselves artistically based on a common theme. This year’s theme of “Together We Can” drew a wide variety of responses from students, from short stories and poems to self-portraits and photography. In addition to submitting an artistic work, students were required to write an essay that explained why their works of art related to the chosen theme. Congratulations to the following high school winners, who will continue on to the next level of competition with the Suffolk Region PTA: Literature First Place – Isabelle Marcelin Second Place – Raeann Mariella Visual Arts First Place – Nicole Cortina Second Place – Emma Stoll Photography First Place – Marisa Bruno Second Place – Samantha Merzbacher In addition to the high school participants, Wading River Elementary School students also submitted entries to the Reflections contest. Principal Stephen Donohue said, “We really encourage participation at our school. Our students are all winners if they participate!” The school recently recognized the following students who will continue to the regional competition: Literature Award of Excellence – Samantha Hunt and Jordan McClintock Award of Merit – Ryan Ledda and Paul Loscalzo Honorable Mention – Kathleen Loscalzo Visual Arts Award of Excellence – Samantha Hunt, Trevor Kessel, and Cayden Mulroy Award of Merit – Brennan Gorman, Aaron McClintock, and Danielle Perner Honorable Mention – Alexandra Borriello and Jordan McClintock Photography Award of Excellence – Lydia Kessel, Nicolette Ness, and Julianna Kohlus Award of Merit – Kathleen Loscalzo, Joseph Brown, and David “DJ” Brown Honorable Mention – Reagan Gulotta http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1444 Sun, 28 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Every Friday morning, students at Briarcliff Elementary School begin their school day by uniting for a special sing-along. During this time, students not only share songs, but take time to learn about important initiatives happening within the school. During their sing-along in mid-November, students learned all about Briarcliff’s upcoming Math-a-Thon, through which students seek donations for math problems they complete, all to benefit St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. In addition, during each sing-along, students who have been “bucket fillers” are recognized (based on the concept that was introduced to Briarcliff last school year). From cooking a meal for someone who is ill to paying a nice compliment to a friend, students are continuing to “fill buckets” for others. “The sing-alongs have become a great addition to our school. They give us an opportunity to unite on a weekly basis and celebrate our Briarcliff family,” said Principal Jane Ruthkowski. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1412 Wed, 24 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT In celebration of Veterans Day, students at Shoreham-Wading River High School participated in an assembly that allowed them to interact with veterans and active duty soldiers of war. Marine Sergeant Chris Johnson and Staff Sergeant John Gallagher visited the school to discuss a variety of topics with students. To begin the program, senior Kyle McElhone played “Taps” to set the mood. Sergeant Johnson and Staff Sergeant Gallagher then provided students with a history of Veterans Day and its importance to us as Americans. In addition, they spoke about the goals of the Marines, its mission in times of war and peace, and the physical and tactical training the soldiers endure. Students also learned how they could help veterans and wounded soldiers through various organizations and volunteer work. The program continued with a discussion on the educational and financial opportunities available to students, the characteristics and values of the Marines, and the roles they play to protect the United States and its allies. To conclude, the students viewed a Marine Corp Birthday video, which included interviews with veterans who reflected on their service. Thank you to social studies teacher Ruth Squillace who coordinated the event for the fifth straight year. Ms. Squillace will continue her partnership with the Marines by attending an Educator’s Workshop at Paris Island, South Carolina (home of the Marines). During her time there, Ms. Squillace will be educated on the Marines and participate in physical training through a special scholarship she received. Thank you also to student Aja Keys and her father, who assisted in coordinating the Marine’s visit. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1402 Mon, 22 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT A Shoreham-Wading River HS student brought a retractable knife to school. No threat was ever made to any student or staff member. Other students saw the knife and reported its existence to staff. District administrators confronted the student, who volunteered that he was in possession of the knife and turned it over to them. The student claimed that he had no intention of bringing the knife into the building, and simply forgot to leave it in his car. The matter was then immediately reported to Suffolk County Police. The student has been suspended from school and faces further disciplinary action, pending the outcome of a Superintendent’s hearing. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1407 Mon, 22 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT November 22, 2010 - BOE Public Notice Cancelled http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1386 Wed, 17 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the cast and crew of the recent high school musical, Fiddler on the Roof. The cast, under the direction of Mary Hygom, performed three outstanding shows for the community at the beginning of November and brought the audience to their feet following each performance. The Shoreham-Wading River community commends the students for their dedication and talent! http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1367 Sun, 14 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Members of the Best Buddies organization at Shoreham-Wading River High School recently organized an integrated physical education day class for Life Skills students. The cross section of classmates effectively mingled over a game of basketball, volleyball, and other activities. They not only became acquainted, but learned that everyone has abilities and strengths, no matter the person’s disability. Best Buddies president Jessica Filangeri explained that the goal of the best Buddies program is to match disabled students with a peer to help become integrated into the school community. There are approximately 35 “peers” in the Best Buddies organization. The organization was recently recognized by the national chapter as an “Excellent New Chapter,” due to its programs, which include a Halloween costume party, bowling nights, movie night, attendance at a Stony Brook University Seawolves game, and a Friendship Walk. Advisor Daria Capone explained that the beauty of the organization’s activities is that mainstream students learn that Life Skills students are very much like any of their classmates. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1337 Sun, 07 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Second-grade students at Wading River Elementary School are currently working with the Wading River Historical Society, the Wading River Civic Association, the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Brookhaven National Laboratory, and the Open Space Stewardship Program to protect the Wading River Pond. In October, the students and their teachers traveled to the pond to conduct tests on the water and to observe the wildlife. During the Wading River Pond project, the students traveled to a number of research stations where they observed wildlife and determined oxygen, salinity, turbidity, temperature, nutrients and bacteria. Teaching assistant Vicki Ocon explained to the student-scientists that there is too much pollution in the water, so the pond no longer freezes over. While New York Sea Grant representative Larissa Graham explained that when the nutrient levels are too high, oxygen levels are too low. The students also made a trip the Wading River Historical Society’s 1826 house filled with local artifacts, farm tools, vintage clothing, and historical documents. Wading River Elementary School Principal Stephen Donohue stated that the Wading River Pond Project will help the students become more cognizant of the importance of preserving open space and to complete science, math, and historical research. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1300 Mon, 01 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students at Prodell Middle School took a stand against drugs and alcohol with the celebration of Red Ribbon Week. This weeklong celebration was sponsored by the National Family Partnership with the goal of helping students and families to present a unified and visible commitment towards the creation of a drug-free and healthy America. During the week, students attended a number of assemblies with speakers from the PoliceSmart Program and Phoenix House. There was a school-wide poster contest, and students were encouraged to wear red. In addition, the school community could browse the information table at the school’s entrance, which is stocked with pamphlets about how to stay drug-free. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1295 Fri, 29 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT A typical day for senior Denise Sher involves a flight in the morning and then a trek to the high school at noon to attend her afternoon classes. Denise is enrolled in Eastern Suffolk BOCES’ Professional Pilots Program and has completed two solo flights this year, as well as 20 flight hours in a Cessna 152. When she completes the program, she will have a professional pilot’s license and a year’s advancement in a college pilot’s program of her choice. Denise was recently interviewed with two of her female classmates by ABC News education reporter Art McFarland, who was researching growing female enrollment in flight programs like the program at BOCES. Denise revealed that her passion for flying developed when her father, also a private pilot, took her on a flight. “When I flew with my dad, I knew that flying was what I wanted,” Denise stated. “When I am in the sky, I’m on cloud nine!” Denise plans on becoming an air traffic controller as well as a private pilot, and may actually work towards a commercial pilot license. She claims that the program has not only taught her to fly, but has been advantageous in learning about real life topics including weights and balances and meteorology. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1282 Mon, 25 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Statement from Dr. Harriet Copel, Superintendent of Schools Regarding Act of Vandalism at Shoreham-Wading River High School On the morning of Saturday, October 16, two high school students defaced the auditorium of Shoreham-Wading River High School by causing considerable damage to approximately 40 seats and other areas using paint. The cost of this damage is still being assessed. The damage was discovered by district employees and was reported to the Suffolk County Police Department. One student has been arrested and charged with a crime. Both students have been suspended from school and face disciplinary hearings. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1264 Wed, 20 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click here for more information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1276 Wed, 20 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Five Shoreham-Wading River High School seniors have been named Commended Students in the 2011 National Merit Scholarship Program. High School Principal Daniel Holtzman presented a Letter of Commendation to Benjamin Cannellys, Michael Mazzola, Raffaele Miceli, Erine Marine and Rachel Szymanski from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), which conducts the program. Approximately 34,000 students throughout the nation were recognized for their exceptional academic promise and presented with this award. Although they will not continue in the 2010 competition for National Merit Scholarships, being named a Commended Student recognizes that these seniors placed among the top five percent of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2011 competition by taking the 2009 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1245 Mon, 18 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Public Notice - Executive Session of the Board of Education - For more information click here. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1247 Sun, 17 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT In early October, Briarcliff Elementary School students and families ushered in the start of the new season with their annual Fall Festival. Sponsored by the PTA, the festival provided a myriad of activities for students to enjoy. From a pony ride and beanbag toss, to pumpkin decorating and face painting, the festival kept kids (and parents!) hopping all afternoon into the evening hours. According to Bridget Limoncelli, festival chairperson, “This year’s festival was the most successful one to date. We had the most people who’ve ever attended and we raised a lot of money for the benefit of Briarcliff Elementary.” Thank you to the many people and organizations who made this year’s event so successful. Special thanks to the PTA volunteers, Girl Scout volunteers, the Limoncelli family, the Ackers family, Finks Farm, Seps Farm, and Andrews Farm. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1220 Sun, 10 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Shoreham-Wading River community gathered on October 2nd for the District’s annual Homecoming celebration. Prior to the football game, students, parents, and community residents visited booths set up by various high school clubs. From face painting and a beanbag toss, to purchasing pumpkins and Wildcat apparel, there was something for every community member to enjoy. Soon after, the Homecoming parade snaked its way around the athletic field, showcasing the magnificent floats of each high school class. Based on the theme of board games, the freshman class depicted “Scrabble;” the sophomore class wowed with their rendition of “Monopoly;” the juniors highlighted “Clue,” and the senior class depicted “Candyland.” In addition, the Best Buddies Club participated in the parade, to the delight of all in attendance. The Varsity Football team then kicked off the game against the Harborfields Tornadoes. While the Wildcats fell short, the effort and spirit of all players are to be commended. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1205 Mon, 04 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click here for more information. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1191 Thu, 30 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Twenty students currently enrolled at Shoreham-Wading River High School have earned Advanced Placement (AP) Scholar Awards in recognition of their exceptional achievement on AP exams. These students scored a grade of 3 or higher on three AP exams taken during the 2009-2010 school year and include: Brian Cuzzo Michelle Gostic Meagan Hearney David Heilbrun Laura Kovach Cali Lavey Samantha Maier Erin Marine Michael Mazzola Raffaele Miceli Nicole Molinara Kaitlyn O’Toole Michael Peraza Kevin Sanders Nicole Smith Kaitlyn Suarez Rachel Szymanski Roxane VanDerLelie Adalgisa Varuolo William Vazquez In addition, Michelle Gostic, David Heilbrun, Cali Lavey, and Erin Marine were named AP Scholars with Honors. These students acquired a grade of 3.25 on all AP exams taken and a grade of 3 or higher on four or more AP exams. Michael Mazzola and Rachel Szymanski also scored a 3.5 or higher on all AP exams taken and a grade of 3 or higher on five or more AP exams, and have been identified by the College Board as AP Scholars with Distinction. The Shoreham-Wading River School District’s fifteen AP courses offer students the opportunity to take college-level courses while still in high school. If a student passes an AP exam, future college credit may be granted. Each AP exam is graded on a scale of 1 to 5, with 3 or higher considered a passing grade. Fifty students who graduated during the 2009-2010 school year have also been recognized as AP Scholars: Olivia Accera Alexa Arata Emily Bakos Caitlin Bennet Pooja Berdia Kevin Brennan Kaitlyn Brosco Alissa Bruno Matthew Chiulli Caitlin Condron Kristi Conway Vincent Culmone Mary Cummings Brian Cuzzo Chelsea Creta Alyssa DePinto Maxime Drouin-Allaire Daniel Ericson Alexandra Gilliard Maegan Gorman Pelle Hall Theresea Jamotta Caitlin King Johnathan Kongoletos Gregory Lubin Mikalia Madigan Samantha Maier Thomas May Erin McMullan Raffaele Miceli Samantha Mingoia Nicole Molinaro Christian Munoz Kenneth Myers Chelsea Newman Danielle Opatovsky Meghan O'Reilly Kaitlyn O’Toole Natalie Pagano Kristen Purdy Shannon Quaranta Zachary Raia Kristen Roedel Alice Shanklin Daniel Stern Gina Terracina Brandon Wahl Kevin Wern Melanie Yovino Iris Yu Of these graduates, ten were recognized as AP Scholars with Honor and sixteen were recognized as AP Scholars with Distinction. Having earned an average score of 4 or higher on a five-point scale on all AP exams taken, and scores of 4 or higher on eight or more of these exams, graduates Pelle Hall, Gregory Lubin, Kenneth Myers, and Iris Yu qualified for the National AP Scholar award. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1173 Sun, 26 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click here for more information... http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1166 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Dressed in red, white and blue or as an important historical character, students at Miller Avenue Elementary School celebrated one of the most important historical moments in United States history, the drafting of the Constitution. Throughout the day, students participated in activities to learn more about the nation’s 213-year-old code of conduct and rules. On this historic day, teachers prepared special activities to study the Constitution, and many classes crafted their own constitutions. Principal Lou Parinello, dressed as Benjamin Franklin, read the Preamble over the intercom at the start of the school day. Constitution Day is celebrated nationally on September 17 to commemorate the formation and signing of the U.S. Constitution by 39 of the nation’s forefathers on September 17, 1787. This day also memorializes the Fourteenth Amendment, which recognizes citizenship for all people born or naturalized in the U.S. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1154 Sun, 19 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Toting backpacks filled with supplies, students from the Shoreham-Wading River School District community disembarked from bright yellow school buses to attend the first day of school on September 7. The students were greeted with the smiling faces of administrators and teachers who were enthusiastic about a new academic year. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Harriet Copel remarked, “The opening of school was both smooth and efficient. The classrooms and buildings were sparkling, and the students and teachers expressed their gratitude at returning to the classroom after a long summer break. This was one of the district’s best openings, and the school community is looking forward to a productive school year.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1129 Sun, 12 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click here for photos http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1119 Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT ...at the September 2, 2010 Superintendent Conference Day September 02, 2010 Good morning and greetings to everyone here. It is my pleasure to welcome you back to the Shoreham-Wading River Central School District for the 2010-2011 school year. I hope you are well rested and ready to face the challenges before us in this new school year. As you all know, the challenges are many: new curriculum, decreased state aid, a decreased tax revenue base, a prolonged worldwide recession, increased pension contributions, increased insurance costs... The list is long, but not insurmountable. If we work together in a collaborative fashion, we can overcome the obstacles that lay in the path of our common goals. The most important of these goals is to provide the students of our district with the highest quality education possible and to provide this instruction in a safe, secure environment. Also of great importance, is to ensure that every employee of this district can perform his or her tasks in that same safe, secure environment and be afforded the respect that every employee deserves. Remember, respect only works when it is mutually and genuinely given. Also, don’t ever forget that every one of us is closely watched by the students. Always act with decorum, both in and out of the classroom. Many people love to disparage our district. We don’t have new buildings. We don’t have money for textbooks. We don’t have expensive landscaping. We don’t have new computers. We don’t have an equitable state aid formula. It is true, there are many things we don’t have, but you can add many positives to that list. We don’t have a major drug problem. We don’t have gang related violence. We don’t have security personnel escorting faculty on and off campus. What we do have are a faculty and staff that are dedicated, motivated and loyal employees. What we do have is a community that values education. What we do have are parents involved, engaged and supportive of our educational goals. Let us be thankful for what we do have as well as what we don’t have. We start the year on a positive note; with dedication and diligence. We came together as a community and overwhelmingly passed our budget. This vote was not an issue of “numbers.” Budgets never pass when it’s about “the numbers.” This vote was a referendum on the future of our district. Fail, we wither on the vine. Pass, we reaffirm our commitment to providing a quality education to our students. It is even more astounding when you consider the fact that these voters were just hit with a 26% increase in their school tax levy. They gave us their approval; now it’s time for us to deliver. It is time to act in the common interest of this district; to put aside contention, self serving agenda and all behavior that hampers our common goal of excellence. On behalf of the Board of Education, I want you to know that we will work diligently to achieve our goals and to keep this district where it rightfully belongs -- on top! I wish you good luck. Have a wonderful and rewarding year. Thank you. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1113 Mon, 06 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT The fields and classrooms of Miller Avenue and Wading River Elementary Schools were abuzz with activities this summer. The only school supplies required were comfortable clothes and an occasional bathing suit, as eager students from the community participated in the District’s annual Roundout program. The program was originally started in the early 1980s and runs for five weeks in July and August. Roundout continues to gain popularity, with approximately 300 students in grades K-6 participating in the daily morning activities this year. There are almost as many volunteers and counselors as there are participants. Students in grades 7-9 start off as assistants to the counselors and work their way up to becoming assistant and head counselors. “These counselors love the camp and working with the kids so much that they choose to work here summer after summer,” Wading River Roundout Supervisor Bob Szymanski remarked. Throughout Roundout, the participants were enrolled in a wide range of activities including general playground recreation, board activities, and artwork. Additionally, the students took part in several different theme days. Water Day, Watermelon Day, Ice Cream Day, a day of relay races, and kickball competitions were just a few of the campers’ favorites. “The camp is a quick three hours, but a lot of fun for the community,” Miller Avenue Supervisor Hal Davis said. “Everyone has a wonderful and safe time.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1093 Mon, 30 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, August 31, 2010 at 8:00 PM in the High School Library http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1088 Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT On October 14, 2009, the Shoreham Wading River School District Board of Education approved the use of health and safety repair reserve funds to make mandated health and safety repairs to the Prodell Middle and Briarcliff Elementary Schools. These repairs are mandated by New York State Building Code and the New York State Education Department. The construction project is well underway in both the Prodell Middle and the Briarcliff Elementary Schools! At the Prodell Middle School, there are approximately twenty classrooms and hallways that are being renovated in the 100, 200 and 300 wings. The renovation includes new walls, ceilings, floors, new cabinets in the Science, Art, and Home and Careers classrooms, two new handicap accessible bathrooms, enlarging the size of six exit doors, and a new fire and smoke detection system, complete with new fire rated safety doors and emergency lighting. . At the Briarcliff Elementary School new heating vents are being installed in fourteen classrooms and corridor doors are being relocated. Shown here are photos of the construction activity at both schools. At the Prodell Middle School, sinks and drainage system pipes have already been removed and are being routed to a new septic system. Construction on classrooms and hallways to increase size in accordance to code requirements has already been completed and is in the finishing stage. New cooking areas have also been constructed in the Home and Careers classrooms and new bathrooms are being prepared for the new ceramic tile soon to be installed. At the Briarcliff Elementary School, walls are being prepared for the new heating ventilation units that will soon be installed. Once again, the Shoreham Wading River School District has been working diligently and at no additional cost to taxpayers to ensure that all students have a healthy and safe learning environment! http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1073 Mon, 16 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT Federal stimulus funds from the federal government’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), have been awarded to the Shoreham Wading River Central School District. ARRA eligibility requirements specify that these funds must target special education student populations and be used to improve student achievement through school improvement and reform. The ARRA funds are being used to acquire much needed instructional technology, including 134 laptop computers, 12 laptop carts, 13 interactive presentation “Smartboards” and instructional software to support learning. This equipment will be used by students in learning center and resource room settings in all schools. Once again, summer has proven to be a very busy time for the Shoreham-Wading River Technology and Curriculum & Instruction Departments. Shown here are the new laptops and laptop carts that are being configured by the Technology Department. The new technology and reading programs will be ready for the start of the 2010-2011 school year! http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1064 Wed, 11 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click Here to View the Announcement http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1054 Thu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click here for more information http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1050 Fri, 30 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT Six current and former staff members of Shoreham-Wading River High School’s newspaper, Wildcat Pause, were recipients of two Long Island journalism contest awards. In addition, the paper won two Gold Awards for excellence in the design and double truck (facing pages) categories for the April and December 2009 issues. Arts and Entertainment editor Jenna Birkmire (Class of 2010) was a Newsday School Journalism Contest third-place winner in the news/history category for her article entitled, “Kenya Children Grateful for SWR Mentors.” The article covered a trip by local residents to Kenya to work with the Hope Children’s Fund orphanage. In its first annual Best of the Press contest, the Long Island School Press Association presented six journalists with Excellence in High School Journalism Awards for outstanding journalism efforts. Hofstra University School of Journalism graduate students, under the supervision of Professor Peter Goodman, judged submissions to the contest. The Gold Award winners include: Jenna Birkmire (Class of 2010) – Sports – “Athlete’s Pain Affects More Than Just the Body” – March 2010 Issue Emily Pflumm (Class of 2010) – News Story – “Potential Breathalyzer Purchase Shocks Students” – April 2009 Issue Kyle Slawski – Opinion/Commentary – “Rising Standards No Excuse for Drug Abuse” Jen Wynkoop – Review – “Mannequin’s Not So Stiff” – Review of a Jack’s Mannequin Concert The Silver and Bronze Award winners include: Maria Dunn – Illustration – accompanying article entitled “What’s Love Got to Do With It?” – February 12, 2010 issue Tyne Uzo (former editor-in-chief) – Editorial – “Heroin Problem is Everyone’s Problem” The District would like to congratulate these students on their achievements and in making the Wildcat Pause an award-winning school newspaper. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1037 Mon, 19 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT It was a day of recognition and recollection as the fifth-grade class at Miller Avenue Elementary School received Moving-Up certificates in front of family, friends, and faculty. Prior to the ceremony, the audience was invited to watch a slide show entitled “Walk Through Time,” which highlighted the special activities and accomplishments of the class throughout the year. Shoreham-Wading River School Superintendent Dr. Harriet Copel congratulated the students of the knowledge they had gained throughout the first six years of education, and encouraged them to take this knowledge to the middle school next year. Dr. Copel also voiced appreciation for the parents’ role. She stated, “I thank you for your support and for sending the children to school ready to learn.” Guest speaker and Suffolk County Legislator Daniel Losquadro told the students life is not just about what we have learned, but about the choices we make. “Take your decisions seriously,” he remarked. The ceremony was punctuated by musical performances by the fifth-grade bell choir and the school’s orchestra. Each class also performed a skit, which reflected on fifth-grade memories and lessons learned. In addition, ten students were presented with the Linda Harris Memorial Award for outstanding participation, class discussion, sensitivity, involvement in activities outside of the classroom, and potential leadership qualities. The recipients were Kyle Baylous, Taylor Flanagan, Patrick Flannery, Kyle Higgins, Samantha Higgins, Conor Horan, Robbie Joannou, Kaitlyn Lieber, Emelia Pion, and Jennifer Searing. Principal Mr. Lou Parrinello then presented each student with a Moving-Up certificate, to the cheers and applause of everyone in attendance. The ceremony commenced with the class singing the “Fifth-Grade Goodbye Song” and a recessional. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1035 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT July 7th Meeting Presentation Topics Studied in 6th Grade Vs. 6th Grade Accelerated Topics Studied in 6th Grade Accelerated Questions and Answers Links to Research 1. Creating Equitable High Schools: Strategies to Eliminate Tracking and Ability Grouping : American Youth Policy Forum Summary Author/presenter Kevin Welner – includes Delia Garrity and Dr. Carol Burris work with Strategies to eliminate tracking and ability grouping. (2003) http://www.aypf.org/forumbriefs/2003/fb121203.htm 2. Improving Mathematics in Middle School: Lessons from TIMSS and Related Research – By Edward A. Silver 1998 http://www2.ed.gov/inits/Math/silver.html 3.Southwest Education Development Labs – Muddle in the Middle: Improving Math Instruction at the Middle School Level “Teachers tend to focus on showing their students how to do math as opposed to explaining what mathematical concepts are and why they function as they do.” http://www.sedl.org/pubs/sedl-letter/v20n01/muddle_in_the_middle.html http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1033 Fri, 09 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT High School 7:20 – 2:05 Regular Dismissal Middle School 7:15-7:55 Advisory conferences/extra help/ music rehearsals 8:00-8:12 Advisory 8:15-1:55 Academic classes Elementary Briarcliff 9:30 – 3:30 Miller Avenue 8:40 – 2:40 Wading River 8:40 – 2:40 Transportation Bus Schedule: Arrival Departure High School 7:10am 2:15pm Middle School Early: 7:05am 7:50am 2:05pm Miller Ave./Wading River 8:30am 2:50pm Briarcliff 9:20am 3:40pm http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1001 Mon, 28 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT It is my privilege to welcome everyone to Shoreham Wading River’s 34th graduation ceremony. I promised my son, Daniel that I would be brief, and I will honor my commitment. Every year at this time, school districts around the country recognize the accomplishments of the graduating seniors. Parents, teachers, and the students themselves reflect on the events that have occurred during the tenure of the graduating class. Collectively, we think about the academic and scholarship awards, brilliant musical and theatre performances, clubs, the athletic triumphs (most recently our 4-peat as New York State Champions for Girls Lacrosse) and their plans for the future. Each of these groups look back and see very different things. Parents look back on heart-warming memories of many precious moments and possibly a few not so fondly recalled. They also are excited to see their babies becoming confident, independent young men and women. This joy may be tempered by just a touch of sadness as another chapter in their children’s lives closes. Teachers reflect on the intellectual growth they have witnessed and take well-earned pride knowing they played an important role preparing our children for the future. The graduating students have a wide range of emotions - from the sadness of knowing they will be leaving the safety and security of this nurturing environment, to a well-earned sense of personal accomplishment and the excitement of taking the next important step as they make their own way into the world. As I wrote this, I thought I would leave each group with something to think about. For our teachers, continue to be the beacon that will illuminate the darkness. Provide our children with the tools to satisfy their intellectual curiosity which will provide a foundation for their success. For our parents, have faith that the guidance and moral compass that you instilled in your child will provide you with the confidence to set them free to realize their dreams. And finally, the graduates. During high school, most of the choices that affected your direction were made by others - most likely your parents. You were involved in clubs, athletics, music and theatre. Typically because your parents introduced you to as many different things as possible to expand your opportunities and ultimately to “beef up” your college resume. At this time you are about to transition to a new paradigm where you will be the navigator of your own destiny. You will determine what you want to pursue, and you will hopefully have the good fortune to find your true passion and live it. In closing - with all of the challenges facing our country and the world at large, I truly believe that you are well-prepared with the imagination, knowledge, and character to meet those challenges and succeed where others before you have not. I wish all of you the fulfillment of your dreams and the brightest of futures. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=1008 Mon, 28 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Learning about the sea and its creatures is not confined to the classroom at Wading River Elementary School. This semester, students participated in an interdisciplinary http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=913 Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Wednesday, July 7, 2010 7:00pm @ HS Library The 6th Grade Accelerated Math Program will be explained There will also be an opportunity for you to ask questions http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=995 Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT On June 22, the Wading River Elementary School community celebrated the accomplishments of 105 fifth-grade students during the school’s annual Moving-Up celebration. Principal Stephen Donohue welcomed all in attendance and addressed the graduates with words of wisdom and advice. In his remarks, he stated, “It’s hard to believe the past five years have come and gone so quickly. Now you’re ready to continue your journey at Prodell Middle School…Set your goals high, follow your dreams, and reach for the stars.” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Harriet Copel also had special remarks for the fifth graders. “Take with you the lessons you’ve learned here as you move on from elementary school,” she stated. Following the ceremony, parents and family members were invited to visit the fifth-grade classrooms to view student projects and enjoy refreshments with their special graduates! http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=994 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT The District would like to congratulate the following students for having been recognized as Students of the Month for May: Garret Budney – Business Alyssa Bruno – Physical Education Anthony DeGradi – Technology Jason Gersbeck – Physical Education Shelby Griffiths – English Dylan Marzac – Social Studies Madeline Massa – LOTE Morgan McDonnell – Science Erin McNally – Math http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=983 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Fifteen high school student-photographers entered their work in the annual Long Island Media Arts Show at Five Towns College in Dix Hills. Peter Anderson, Chris Calabrisi, Heather Cullum, and Meghan Spillane placed “Best in Show” out of the 100 or more students selected for this category. During the show, the students received an opportunity to have their work evaluated by field professionals, to view the work of other students, and to be evaluated for placement in the New York Summer School for the Arts. A: Peter Anderson B: Chris Calabrisi C: Heather Cullum D: Meghan Spillane http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=984 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT The District would like to congratulate the SWR Varsity Girls Lacrosse team for winning the Class C New York State Girls Lacrosse Championship . The Wildcats secured the title with a 10-9 victory against the Carthage Comets in Cortland, NY. This is the fourth time that the team has captured the state title. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=985 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT An incident report was filed with the Riverhead Police on Monday morning after staff members discovered a broken window in a classroom that faces the playground on the east side of the school. It is possible that the broken window is simply the result of an errant ball, though it could also be an act of vandalism. The district has researched this matter thoroughly, and asks that if anyone has knowledge of what may have occurred, to please call Plant Facilities Administrator Robert Woolsey at 821-8195. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=972 Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT After a routine inspection by the Suffolk County Department of Health, it has been brought to our attention that the Albert G. Prodell Middle School food service program has been cited with violations. The district would like to assure the community that we have already corrected some of these violations and are working to remedy the remaining issues as quickly as possible. The health and wellness of our students along with the storage and preparation of the foods that are served are a top priority for the district, and these changes will enable us to provide a better food service program for our students. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=951 Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Suffolk County School Superintendents Association (SCSSA) hosted the 16th annual Valedictorian Luncheon to honor the county’s brightest minds from the Class of 2010. School superintendents, administrators, guidance counselors, and family members accompanied the honorees on this festive occasion to recognize the successes of the county’s outstanding and bright graduates. In addition to honoring this year’s valedictorians, the SCSSA and its corporate sponsors also presented ten scholarships. Shoreham-Wading River Valedictorian Kristi Conway attended the luncheon with Superintendent of Schools Dr. Harriet Copel and Shoreham-Wading River High School Principal Daniel Holtzman. SCSSA President and East Islip School District Superintendent Wendell Chu congratulated the valedictorians on what he described as the “greatest achievement in an academic career.” He reminded the students that they hold the future of the world in their hands. “With this honor comes responsibility,” Mr. Chu stated. “You will be making our world.” Keynote speaker, Newsday journalist, and author David Marcus pondered the definition of the word “success,” and explained to the students that success takes on new meaning as we get older. He also offered six ways in which to be successful in college, which included: Get out of your comfort zone; Get to know your professors; Give back to the community; Participate in activities that have nothing to do with college classes; Go to a foreign place; and Take relationships slowly. He also encouraged the valedictorians to write a thank-you note to teachers or administrators for their guidance throughout high school. SCSSA President-Elect and Bayport-Blue Point Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anthony Annunziato delivered closing words of wisdom to the students. He remarked that the strength and spirit of an individual does not change, and the challenges a person faces defines an individual. The valedictorians were then introduced and accompanied by their respective Superintendent of Schools to receive a Valedictorian Award certificate and a copy of Mr. Marcus’s book, What It Takes to Pull Me Through: Why Teenagers Get in Trouble and How Four of Them Got Out. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=939 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Seniors at Shoreham-Wading River High School jumped aboard golf carts and tested their driving skills on a course laid out by orange cones, negotiating the track as both a sober driver and one who has consumed alcohol prior to taking the wheel. The driving exercise was a pilot program offered by the Suffolk County Police Department called Driving While Informed. Hosted by criminal justice students in Ruth Squillace’s class, the District’s seniors were the first to experience the pilot program. “If we can educate students on the ramifications of getting behind the wheel after having consumed any amount of alcohol, then we have done our job,” Suffolk County Police Officer Mike Dunn stated. Prior to driving, the students attended an assembly in which the officers covered topics including blood alcohol levels and impairment. The seniors were then paired with a police officer and taken through a driving course that combined the elements of real driving with stops and curves. On the second round, the students wore “beer glasses” to simulate inebriation as they attempted the driving course without hitting the cones. All witnessed that driving while impaired held drastic implications. After the driving exercise, officers administered breathalizer tests and peer educators were also on hand to quiz students on facts learned during the assembly. Senior Lindsay Fortunato remarked that this hands-on program was successful. “It will definitely make us all think before getting into a car after having consumed alcohol,” she stated. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=940 Fri, 04 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT The gymnasium at Miller Avenue Elementary School was filled with brightly colored posters and cheering students during a recent visit by ALS icon and honored guest Chris Pendergast, who was making his annual trek towards Manhattan from Montauk Point during the Ride For Life Relay. This year, rider Richie Kornak of Middletown, New York and Ride For Life representative Phylis Silver joined Mr. Pendergast for a presentation by the school’s bell choir, a string presentation of “America The Beautiful” and cheers from the student body, who wished the riders well on their voyage toward New York City. After the assembly, the students hoisted American flags as Mr. Pendergast, followed by Mr. Kornak, passed through the halls of the school. The students continued their patriotic line of support through the school parking lot and to North Country Road, as they held signs high and chanted “Strike Out ALS.” http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=941 Mon, 24 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT The High School administration and staff would like to congratulate the following students on being named Students of the Month for the combined months of February and March and April. February/March Alexis Bethancourt (10) Physical Education Nicole Caligiuri (11) Music Victorya Hernandez (9) Technology CJ Higgins (11) Social Studies James Higgins (10) ELA James Hunt (12) Math Kate Jorjadze (10) Physical Education Codi Mullen (11) Math Anthony Pisani (12) Business Meghan Serdock (9) Math Claire Shanklin (9) LOTE Emil Trotta (10) Business Danielle Wahl (9) Science April Andrew Bentivegna (11) Math Daniel Cacace (10) Technology Anthony Franze (10) Math Theresa Rae Jamotta (12) LOTE Debi-Michelle Jantzen (10) Science Christine Joseph (9) Physical Education Jake Kavanagh (9) Physical Education Patricia Miller (10) ELA Joseph Pasqualo (10) Social Studies Evan Purdy (9) Physical Education Audrey Ricca (9) Physical Education Haris Naim (9) Business http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=942 Mon, 24 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Wading River Elementary School Students Protect the Environment Every day is Earth Day at Wading River Elementary School. Students are busy with recycling projects throughout the school year, and are now reaching out to the community with a message to save the Earth. For the past several months, student-environmentalists have been collecting used juice boxes and drink pouches and sending them to the Terracycle Program. This environmentally concerned company has teamed up with Capri Sun to collect these products and convert them into pencil cases, tote bags, and fashion handbags. The school receives 2 cents for every juice pouch collected, and the money will be donated to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). In addition, members of the Wading River Elementary School student council have been collecting water bottles since the onset of the school year. The PTA has been generous in their donation of a recycle can for the students’ collection. “We have been very conscious of collecting as many water bottles as possible,” teacher and student council advisor Alison Quenzer stated. “We even have a class roster which lists when each volunteer will take collected bottles and paper home on the bus to place in their parents’ recycle bins.” Ms. Quenzer’s fourth-grade students were also working hard on a community outreach program. The class teamed up with first graders in Erin Gransen’s class to decorate paper grocery bags from King Kullen Grocery Store in Wading River. The bags are decorated with environmental slogans and brightly colored pictures, and will be reused by the store’s customers. The students agree that this is a great way to get messages out to the general public about saving the environment. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=943 Wed, 05 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students at Briarcliff Elementary School decorated the courtyard with brightly painted rocks and new flowers to celebrate Earth Day. The theme of the PTA PARP activity was “Plant a Seed and Read,” during which the students received a weeklong lesson on how to reuse and recycle products. Prior to the activity, PTA volunteers and parents mulched, weeded, trimmed plants, and raked the courtyard. The students then painted rocks and planted seeds in flowerpots, which when grown, will be planted in the flowerbeds. Each class will also have a designated rock garden to enjoy. “Our goal is to make this wonderful activity a tradition,” Briarcliff PTA president Anne Papa stated. Before returning to their classrooms, the students received a book written by kindergarten students of Oak Park Elementary School in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, entitled “Our Class is Going Green.” The students also received a character education charm for their community beautification effort. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=944 Wed, 05 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT A group of 15 student photographers from Shoreham-Wading River High School traveled to and displayed their works in the Long Island Media Arts Show at Five Towns College in Dix Hills. Students Peter Anderson, Christopher Cilibrasi, Heather Cullum, and Meghan Spillane were awarded “Best in Show” in Photography. The Long Island Media Arts Show is an annual exhibition of photography, video, and graphic arts. During this daylong event, students are given the chance to have their works evaluated by field professionals for awards and placement in the prestigious New York Summer School of the Arts. “This event is also an excellent opportunity for the students to view the work of other students on Long Island,” art teacher Jason Andria explained. “We are proud of all the students who entered their works in this exhibit.” The following students attended the Long Island Media Arts Show: Peter Anderson Heather Cullum Breslynn Naso Miranda Behrens Danielle Kennedy Samantha Raia Travis Butler Lindsay Malone Audrey Ricca Chris Cilibrasi Madeline Massa Meghan Spillane Brian Croly Samantha Merzbacher Danielle Wahl http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=948 Mon, 05 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT The District would like to congratulate seniors Kristi Conway and Iris Yu on being selected Valedictorian and Salutatorian of the Shoreham-Wading River High School Class of 2010. The students were notified during a surprise conference with their parents and members of the district administration. “You are a testament to hard work, effort, and sacrifice,” Shoreham-Wading River High School Principal Dan Holtzman remarked. “This is always a proud moment for a principal.” Both students excelled in academics and athletics during their four years of high school. Kristi is an Advanced Placement (AP) Scholar and a member of the National Honor Society. She is involved with the sport of Fencing, and recently signed a National Letter of Intent to fence at Cornell University this fall. While at Cornell, she plans to follow in a pre-med program. Iris is an AP student with Honors and a member of the National Honor Society. Last fall she was named a Commended Student in the 2010 National Merit Scholarship program for exceptional academic achievement. Iris plays the viola in the school orchestra and was selected to participate in the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) All-State Conference in Rochester. She is also a member of the Global Awareness Club and Mathletes. When not in school, Iris is a competitive figure skater. She is weighing her decision to study linguistics at either Dartmouth College or the University of Chicago. http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=945 Sun, 04 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Shoreham-Wading River School District is proud to announce that senior Gina Pollizo was recently selected from thousands of submissions to have her artwork displayed on the label of the Green Apple variety of Jones Soda. A student in Mr. Jason Andria¹s Photography 2 course, Gina is the 16th student in the past nine years to have her artwork chosen for publication. She was recently accepted to the Pratt Institute¹s School of Art and Design and the School of Visual Arts. Gina hopes to pursue a career in photography and graphic design. Congratulations, Gina! http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=946 Thu, 01 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT The High School administration and staff would like to congratulate the following students on being named Students of the Month for the combined months of February and March. Alexis Bethancourt (10) Physical Education Nicole Caligiuri (11) Music Victorya Hernandez (9) Technology CJ Higgins (11) Social Studies James Higgins (10) ELA James Hunt (12) Math Kate Jorjadze (10) Physical Education Codi Mullen (11) Math Anthony Pisani (12) Business Meghan Serdock (9) Math Claire Shanklin (9) LOTE Emil Trotta (10) Business Danielle Wahl (9) Science http://www.swrschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=947 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT