Albert G. Prodell Middle School eighth grader Luciana Politi has a rewarding and enriching academic experience ahead of her.

Luciana has been selected as a Long Island Young Scholar of Mathematics and invited to participate in the Institute of Creative Problem Solving at Stony Brook University for the 2025–2026 academic year. The program will consist of 20 Saturday sessions, beginning in September. The program for gifted and talented students engages students in grades 5-10 in creative problem-solving activities in mathematics and science.

Luciana has shown dedication, growth and resilience throughout her eighth-grade year, and it has been a joy to watch her learn and thrive,” school counselor Lauren Waldron said. “Here at Prodell we are so proud of all Luciana has accomplished and can’t wait to see the amazing things she'll achieve in high school!

Date Added: 6/9/2025

When art and nature meet, it becomes an intersection of creativity and the universe.

Inspired by nature, Prodell Middle School art teacher Clare Finnican happened upon a program offered by the Quogue Wildlife Refuge that would bring live animals to the school for an up-close and personal lesson in both art and nature. In it, she found an innovative way to blend her students’ budding skills with the wonders of the natural world.

Quogue Wildlife Refuge’s Nadia Trejo, an environmental educator, visited the school for two programs, in which she shared information on the Refuge and its animals, their adaptations, personalities, histories and more. The students learned about the Virginia Eastern Box Turtle, an opossum, a Madagascar cockroach and the most common falcon in the country – the American kestrel – while they took out their drawing pads and pencils to sketch them.

“Having the Quogue Wildlife animals visit our school was such a special experience for our students,” Ms. Finnican said. “Observing and drawing real animals up close brought a whole new level of excitement and connection to our art lessons. It was inspiring to see the kids so engaged and curious – it’s an experience we’ll remember for a long time.”

Click here to view the When Art & Nature Meet slideshow.

Date Added: 6/9/2025

Albert G. Prodell Middle School’s choirs brought home top honors at the 2025 Music in the Parks festival, held this past weekend at Six Flags, earning a series of first place finishes and a prestigious overall award.

Under the direction of Mr. John Samonte, the Middle School Chromatics Men’s Choir and the Quartertones Show Choir each placed first in their respective categories, demonstrating exceptional musicality, stage presence and professionalism. In addition to their category wins, the combined efforts of the ensembles led to the highest honor of the day – the Overall Middle School Choir Award, given to the top-scoring choral group among all participating middle schools.

“These students have worked incredibly hard all year, and it’s so rewarding to see their dedication recognized on a big stage,” said Mr. Samonte. “They performed with heart, discipline and joy – I couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve accomplished.”

Music in the Parks is a national adjudicated music festival that brings together student ensembles from across the region to perform for expert judges and receive valuable feedback. The festival emphasizes musical excellence, teamwork and positive student experiences.

Congratulations to all the Prodell musicians for an outstanding performance and for representing Shoreham-Wading River with pride!

Date Added: 6/9/2025