Teacher Noreen Matthews, a social studies teacher in West Islip High School, has been awarded a Fulbright Classroom Teacher Exchange Grant to teach in Glasgow, Scotland for a year, it was announced recently. Ms. Matthews is one of approximately 60 U.S. citizens who will travel abroad for the 2011-12 Fulbright Program, reports the United States Department of State and the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. Nikki Sutherland from Glasgow High School will be replacing Ms. Matthews in West Islip.
The Fulbright Program is the international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government and is designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and those of other countries. Recipients are selected on the basis of academic or professional achievement, as well as demonstrated leadership potential in their fields. Since its establishment in 1946 under legislation introduced by the late U.S. Senator J. William Fulbright of Arkansas, the program provides opportunities to study, teach and conduct research, exchange ideas and contribute to finding solutions to shared international concerns. Fulbright alumni have achieved distinction in government, science, the arts, business, education and athletics. Forty Fulbright alumni from 11 countries have been awarded the Nobel Prize.
West Islip High School social studies teacher Noreen Matthews (pictured in the front row, third from the left, with several of her students in Guatemala) has received a 2011-2012 Fulbright Scholarship and will be teaching in Scotland.
West Islip students in the West Islip Student Enrichment (WISE) Challenge Program were among 150,000 worldwide to join in the Math Olympiad for elementary schools grades 4-6. They participated in a series of five monthly problems each, from November to March, weekly practice sessions under the supervision and coaching of teacher and Challenge Facilitator Theresa Robertson, and went to Stony Brook University to compete. She taught the children to solve unusual and difficult problems and to think creatively. The youngsters responded well, she reports, and all were recognized with certificates of participation. Of the 53 West Islip students who entered the competition, 26 received awards for accomplishments at the local level.
Pictured with Ms. Robertson and Superintendent of Schools Richard A. Simon during the student recognition portion of the West Islip Board of Education June public meeting, are four of the winning students. Grace V. finished in First Place for the fourth grade team (left) and Jett L. and Matthew C. tied for Second Place. Kelly H. (fourth from left) finished in First Place for the fifth grade team and Amanda I. and Kristina B. (both not in photo) tied for Second Place. A silver pin was awarded to Kelly H. of Manetuck Elementary School for finishing in the top 10 percent, worldwide, of the 150,000 students.
Who
killed Sam the Clam is a question that interested West Islip
fourth graders. Under the guidance of West Islip Schoolwide
Enrichment (WISE) Discovery Facilitator Vivian. Hollinger, the
students investigated the cause of the decrease of the local
clam and scallop population. Their research led them to the
conclusion that fertilizer and the humans who utilized it were
guilty of causing nutrient pollution in the Great South Bay.
Student Madison M. commented “People put down too much
fertilizer that runs off into the bay and pollutes the water.”
The children also concluded that because of the over harvesting
of clams in the late 1970s, the mussels have not had a chance to
recover. “I believe that clams are important resources because
they are filter feeders and without them, brown algae grows and
spreads. We would not be able to swim in the water,” stated
Brian P., another fourth grader.
In an effort to help save the clams and protect local coastal
waters, the students decided to raise money by designing
t-shirts and selling them on iloveearth.com. The students were
able to raise $425, which was sent to the Nature Conservancy of
Long Island to support addition research to help combat the
effects that these chemicals have on the environment. "I hope
the environmental researchers can find a way to help clean our
bay and restore our clams and scallops," said Catherine F.
Classmate Jillian R. added, "I feel that we really made a
difference for our community, even though we are fourth graders,
because our t-shirt designs show people that we really need to
take care of our water and the animals that live in it.”
The West Islip Valedictorian and Salutatorian of 2011 are Casey Lee McLaughlin and Robyna Mamoor, respectively. They're pictured here with Principal Dr. Anthony Bridgeman (left) and Superintendent Richard A. Simon.
Casey, with a weighted average of 106.59, will be attending Yale University in the fall, majoring in Science /Chemistry. She is currently the Concert Master of the Senior Orchestra and the Chamber Orchestra, Editor of Literary Magazine, Managing Editor and Art Editor of the school newspaper, Captain of the Science Olympiad Team, Principal First violinist of the Pit Orchestra for high school musicals, and is a member of the National Honor Society and the English Honor Society.
Robyna, with a weighted average of 104.526, will be attending SUNY Stony Brook. Her major area of study was undecided at the time this release was written. She is currently Second Violin Player of the Pit Orchestra, First Violin of the Chamber Orchestra, and a member of the National Honor Society, English Honor Society and Foreign Language Honor Society
The first annual Friedlander Upstander Award, a $2,500
scholarship from the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center,
has been presented to West Islip student Brooke DiP.. The
Holocaust Center on Long Island is known for it
tolerance/anti-bullying workshops that teach young people how to
move from indifference to action. Students are taught about
anti-Semitism, racism and other manifestations of intolerance.
The Center promotes resistance to prejudice and advocates
respect for all. Working in cooperation with the Suffolk and
Nassau County Police Departments, the first annual Friedlander Upstander Award is presented to one student in each county who
had demonstrated intervention or prevention.
The Friedlander
Family Foundation was established by Claire Friedlander, a
Holocaust survivor, whose life was saved by people who took a
stand against prejudice and injustice. This award honors her
life and embodies her legacy. Pictured with Brooke and the
Certificate of Recognition is Assistant Superintendent for
Secondary Curriculum and Instruction Bernadette Burns.
Sharon Bieselin, a West Islip Board of Education Trustee for nine years, said goodbye to her colleagues during the June public session, completing three full terms in the position. Board President Steve Gellar presented her with a plaque for her "exemplary service to the school district and community."
Ms. Bieselin served on the Building & Grounds Committee, Special Education, and the Audit Committee. As a voting delegate, she represented West Islip at the School Boards Conventions, was president of several school PTAs, and helped to establish the PTSA Pre-Prom events. Additionally she is a founding member of the annual Remembrance Walk for Good Shepherd Hospice and the Lionheart Committee, initiated after the 9/11 World Trade Center terrorist attack. She is a Cornell Cooperative Master Gardener and an active member of the West Islip Beautification Society. Ms. Bieselin is pictured with Mr. Gellar.
The Suffolk Zone of the New York State Association for Health,
Physical Education, Recreation and Dance recognized the 2011
recipients of the Physical Education Student Leadership Awards
at a ceremony on recently held at Bay Shore High School. West
Islip students were recognized for their positive attitude,
behavior and performance, as well as demonstrating high personal
standards and caring for others. West Islip Director of
Athletics, Physical Education, Health & Recreation Tim Horan
said, “We are very proud of their accomplishments! They have
demonstrated an appreciation for human movement as well as the
social skills and personal attributes we would like to see in
all children.”
Pictured are (1st row, left to right) Jimmy W., Raymond R.,
Gianna V., (2nd row) Corinne C., Connor S., Melanie S., Jack B.,
Tom P., Emily M., Lena R., (3rd row) Cassidy R., Joe R., and
Alex B.
Missing from the photo are Julia Q., Anthony T., Kelly H.,
Stephen M., and Lauren W.
Members of the West Islip Boys' Varsity Tennis Team and Coach George Botsch recently attended the Suffolk County Tennis Coaches Association Awards Banquet.
They were recognized with post season honors, reports West Islip Director of Athletics Tim Horan.
Pictured are Greg N., Robert H., Coach Botsch, Mike S. and Don W.
During
the week of May 9th the children and staff at Westbrook
Elementary School in West Islip celebrated “Food Allergy
Awareness Week.” Parent coordinators, Mrs. Coppola and Mrs.
Rogler created a program of events to help educate the children
about food allergies.
The children were encouraged to protect their friends from
potentially life threatening reactions by being a PAL, the
acronym for Protect A Life. The children raised $200.00 in
donations for the Food Allergy Awareness Network. The week was
enjoyed by the children and staff.
The
Manetuck Elementary School Fifth Grade Chorus inspired the crowd
at Bethpage Stadium with a rousing rendition of “God Bless
America” during the Memorial Day weekend, reports Principal Mary
Anderson.
The students, decked out in their West Islip blue & gold school
colors, sang during the seventh inning stretch. Led by Choral
Director Karen Isaksen-Taylor, the students had an exciting and
memorable musical experience and proudly represented West Islip,
report PTA members who assisted with the performance.
The Select Chorus of Beach Street Middle School traveled into
New York City to attend a Broadway Theatre workshop with two
Broadway actors. The group learned a song and dance routine from
"Wicked." It was followed a great question and answer period,
where the actors shared their experiences of becoming Broadway
actors. After a fun lunch at Planet Hollywood, the group saw the
performance: "How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying."
Staring in the performance were Daniel Radcliff and John
Laroquette. It was an awesome show! Mrs. Persico and her
students highly recommend seeing it.
Two
special events were celebrated at Bayview Elementary School:
Arbor Day and the Peace Walk. Wanting to establishing a better
and more sustainable quality of life through tree-planting,
Principal Rhonda Pratt and Islip Town Councilman Steve Flotteron
guided students in the planting of six attractive cherry blossom
trees - provided by the Town - in front of the school. Ms. Pratt
read a book about the history of Arbor Day to kindergarteners
who came outside for the special event. She explained to them
that Arbor Day was first held in 1872 in Nebraska when
agriculturist J. Sterling Morton decided the state's landscape
need improvement. Millions of trees were given new homes
throughout the state. President Richard Nixon, in 1970, declared
the last Friday in April as Arbor Day's national day of
recognition.
As part of Bayview's Character Education lessons, the fourth
annual Bayview PEACE Walk was held. This school-wide effort
celebrates promoting peace in the community, country and world.
All students and staff were invited to wear white shirts in
demonstration of peace and unity.
Trying
to get the message across to teenagers about driving safely is
no easy task. There's an inherent belief among most that they
are infallible. But as tough as the challenge was for West Islip
High School Associate Principal Ellen Quaglio and her team of
student assistants, the assembly for the Senior Class on May
26th will be remembered as hitting its mark. "Safe Teen Driving
2011" featured two guest speakers including one who cried at the
microphone, a film provided by the Fraternal Order of Police,
and the essay "Please God, I'm Only 17," read by a student.
The display in front of the school auditorium consisting of
funeral wreaths with photos and information about three members
of the Class of 1989 who died in car accidents, and the playing
of the '89 prom song "This is the Time," by Billy Joel, grabbed
the attention of the 450 students right at the very beginning.
Dedicated to Erik Christensen and Paul Gartner who died in
December of 1988 and Nicole Foyt who was killed in May, 1989,
the purpose of the assembly was to remind the Class of 2011
about how "wrong decisions - whether they are made by you or
someone else - made while driving can change your life
immediately. "I want you to read the
flyers that were placed on your cars this morning. I want you to
stop by the three trees that are planted in memory of Erik, Paul
and Nicole and notice the black bows on them. And I want you to
think about the many lives that can be affected by just one
wrong decision made while driving," Ms. Quaglio said with her
familiar, one-two punch directness.
Hosted by student Brianna B., the assembly featured a member of
the Class of 1990, Carol Schmidt Downey, a good friend of the
three who died. Her often-hesitant and emotional telling of the
events that created "the saddest prom in West Islip history" was
heart-wrenching. After the third friend died, she started
Students Against Driving Drunk (SADD) in West Islip. She told of
collecting friends' car keys after parties and even poking a
hole in the tire of a drunk classmate who insisted he could
drive.
The film, "Inbound Mercy," showed the dramatic events that
followed a party, during which students drank heavily, and the
car crash that took the life of a young man. Then, the Vice
President of the Fraternal Order of Police, Joe McGarry, went to
the microphone and said, "Your future is on the line." What
differed in his message from the ones he's given the last eight
years is that now it includes information on drugging while
driving and texting and phoning. "The number of serious crashes
involving teenagers is climbing," said Mr. McGarry, "because of
them speaking on hand-held cell phones and texting."
The assembly concluded with the reading of "Please God, I'm Only
17," which was published in Ann Lander's column in Newsday at
the time of West Islip High School's loss. The article was kept
by Ms. Downey. It can also be found on the Internet.
The assembly was held through a grant awarded by the Allstate
Foundation. A "totaled" car was delivered to the high school by
Higbie Collision, and the funeral wreath stands and black
ribbons were provided by Towers Flowers. Ms. Quaglio was
assisted by members of the Student Empowerment Group (SED).
Shannon Hyland, a member of the Class of 2013 said, "We worked
on this program all year. We wanted to inform our peers about
how one bad decision will change their life."
As the seniors left the auditorium to return to class, black
lapel ribbons were distributed in memory of Erik, Paul and
Nicole. "I just hope our kids remember this when they get behind
the wheel of their cars," commented Ms. Qualgio, adding that the
100 most deadly days for high school seniors are during the
season of proms, graduation, and celebration parties.
While
Long Islanders dealt with an abundance of snow and ice this past
winter, Antigua Guatemala residents were enjoying an average
temperature of 70 degrees. That’s because Antigua is in the
tropics and has nice weather all year long. During the summer,
it’s a popular destination for students learning Spanish and
year around it’s a destination site for tourist interested in
the spectacular ruins of colonial churches. Antigua is a UNESCO
Heritage Site, meaning it is of special cultural or physical
significance. It is also one of the poorest countries in Latin
America.
Last summer, West Islip High School social studies teacher
Noreen Matthews and seven students went to the city to
experience Guatemala in ways an average tourist cannot. For most
of the teens, it was their first time out of the United States.
“There is no better way to learn about a country than immersing
oneself into the community and the culture by serving a
population in need, explained Ms. Matthews. “Our students
embraced this opportunity wholeheartedly and gained valuable
life experience. I am so proud of these extraordinary students
who showed tremendous courage and character throughout the
week.”
The group worked in construction, schools, a day care center,
and volunteered with a non-profit organization called Common
Hope, which serves families in need. Some families live in
one-room houses made of cornstalk and scrap metal with little
access to clean water or jobs with livable wages. Believing that
education is the key to unlock the cycle of poverty, the West
Islipians immersed themselves in the local projects, including
building a one room house for a family of six. “Our students
embraced this opportunity wholeheartedly and gained valuable
life experiences,” Ms. Matthews
reported.”
The group also served the Antigua community in other ways. They
went in pairs on home visits with a Common Hope social worker
where they were able to observe the direct impact that Common
Hope has on the people they were serving. Student Rachel M.
commented, “I didn’t expect to see such extreme poverty. They
had dirt floors and plastic furniture. Yet, the people were
really happy even though they had nothing. They were happy to
see us.” Additionally, students visited primary schools to
observe and compare the difference in educational opportunities.
Tyler B., a member of the Class of 2011, added “When we got
there, they were playing tag with crumpled garbage.” The West
Islip students joined in the game and then accompanied the
children into the classrooms where they participated in math and
reading lessons.
Some participated in a cultural exchange with a teenage youth
group by sharing local cuisine. The New York students made Rice
Krispie treats and the Guatemalan students made a local
pudding-like dessert. Tie-dying shirts were another activity in
which both groups collaborated. For the Guatemalan students,
this was the first time most of them had ever tie-dyed. Often,
the students could be found playing soccer together on the dirt
field on the Common Hope grounds. “It was so rewarding to watch
my students engage in this cultural exchange experience,” added
Ms. Matthews. “Most struggled with the language barrier, but
they found it easy to get to know each other through sports. A
smile is universal in every language.”
Ms. Matthews a is planning to take another group of eager West
Islip students to Antigua, Guatemala this July. The group will
be accompanied by high school foreign language teacher Andrea
Baritis. going to Guatemala will be: Jessica C., 11th grade;
Victoria G., 11th; Corinne K., 11th; Tyler R., 10th; Michael R.
11th; Holly S., 10th; Stephanie S., 10th; Atilay Y.; 10th; and
Faith Y., 11th.
West
Islip fourth grader Brianna S. has received the New York State
PTA Award of Excellence. The Kirdahy Elementary School student
is one of only 24 in the entire state advancing to the National
PTA level of judging in the Reflections competition that will
take place in June. The theme this year is "Together We Can."
Reflections is a National PTA competition that for over 40 years
has encouraged students to express themselves through the arts.
Brianna is a state winner in the photography category. She's
pictured with West Islip PTA Council President Theresa Shaw
during the May Board of Education meeting. Ms. Shaw says, "We
are all very proud of Brianna's accomplishment. She is a very
talented young artist."
The
West Islip Board of Education and Superintendent of Schools
Richard A. Simon honored the school nurses during the May public
meeting. School Nurse Day 2011 was celebrated on May 11th with
the hope of fostering a better understanding of the role school
nurses play in the educational setting.
School nurses coordinate the health and wellness of the entire
school community by working with the students and their
families. Pictured with Mr. Simon is Kirdahy Elementary School
nurse Trish Reimer.
Each
year on National Teacher Appreciation Day, thousands of
communities take time to honor their local educators and
acknowledge the crucial role they play in making sure every
student receives a quality education.
This year, the official day of recognition was held on May 3rd,
but in West Islip Schools, the Board of Education choose to
thank the faculty during a Board public session on May 12th.
Pictured is Joe Dixon (left), president of the West Islip
Teachers' Association (WITA), with Superintendent of Schools
Richard A. Simon.
On
March 11, 2011 a massive earthquake and tsunami hit Japan. This
natural disaster has impacted the lives of thousands of people
not only in Japan but in many other countries around the world.
As part of Westbrook Elementary School's Character Counts
Education Program, students decorated a "helping hand"
along with contributing a donation. Their support helped
demonstrate their dedication to this very worthwhile cause. This
helped to instill a sense of responsibility and compassion in
the children and for that we are thankful. We are so proud of
our students. Together they really did make a difference.
West
Islip High School students representing Future Business Leaders
of America (FBLA) and the Business & Marketing Honor Society
(BMHS) attended "Business and Marketing Day" at Six Flags Great
Adventure in New Jersey. With them were Advisors Joanne Fevang,
Joanne Macrelli and Monica Krawczvk, who reported that the
students were eager to share in the unique opportunity with
media personalities from the corporate world. The business
professionals who attended shared their experiences about their
duties and responsibilities. The teens inquired about successful
career paths of established professionals from television, radio
and newspapers. Radio personality "Greg T" from New York station
Z-100, was one of many who answered various questions regarding
daily tasks and various celebrities interviewed. The West Islip
students joined peers from other districts in participating in
this celebration of business education.
The
West Islip Varsity Cheerleading Team, under the guidance of
Ariana Stubbmann and Megan Ross, recently took 3rd Place in the
Long Island Competitive Cheerleading championships. This is the
third consecutive year the cheerleading team has placed in the
Top Five on Long Island, reports Tim Horan, Director of Physical
Education, Health, Athletics and Recreation.
West Islip High School junior and cheerleader Alycia R., who was
recognized as an “All Star” by LICCA (the governing body of
competitive cheerleading), was also honored for her
accomplishments by the West Islip Board of Education during its
May public meeting. Alycia is pictured with Mr. Horan..
The
High School Business Education Department sponsored a “Second
Annual Tax-Day Competition” recently. Superintendent of Schools
Richard A. Simon and Assistant Superintendent for Secondary
Curriculum and Instruction Bernadette Burns were among the
guests. Students met in the auditorium to hear businessman and
Board of Education Trustee George Smith share his diverse
expertise regarding his experiences in the corporate world.
Following Mr. Smith’s presentation, the teens reconvened in the
cafeteria to compete in various areas of business education,
including Marketing, Business Law, Accounting, IB Business,
Computer Essentials, Web Wizards, Desktop Publishing, and
College Accounting. Moderators/teachers Joanne Krawczyk and
Monica Macrelli were pleased that the
students had the opportunity to share their knowledge and
competed with their fellow classmates. “We’re always very proud
of the students who take our courses and represent our
department,” said Ms. Krawczyk. Ms. Macrelli added, “Our goal in
the Business Education Department is to bring real life
experiences to the students who take business education courses,
prepare them for college, and for employment.” Students who
competed will be awarded with certificates for first, second,
and third place, which they will add to their portfolios.
The West Islip Business Education Department won the prestigious
award of “Business Department of the Year” in 2010, an award
that only a few departments in New York State have received.
On
Saturday April 30th, 2011, West Islip’s Beach Street Middle
School 7th and 8th grade Band and Orchestra took home two first
place trophies from the Music In The Parks competition. Music In
The Parks is an interstate music festival/competition attended
by tens of thousands of student musicians across North America
every spring. For the second consecutive year the Beach Street
Middle School instrumental ensembles attended the festival in
Allentown, Pennsylvania at Dorney Park. The Beach Street Middle
School 7th and 8th grade band, under the direction of Mr. Steven
Smith, received first place for the Division 1A Middle School
Concert Band competition while the Beach Street Middle School
7th and 8th grade orchestra, under the direction of Miss
Lynnette O’Hanlon, received first place for the Division 1A
Middle School String Orchestra competition.
The event was attended by all volunteer parent and teacher
chaperones as well as 102 student musicians from Beach Street
Middle School. The day started with the performances at Kutztown
Area High School and concluded with the Music In The Parks award
ceremony held at Dorney Park and Wild Water Kingdom Amusement
Park.
The trip provided the opportunity for each performing ensemble
to be rated by a panel of adjudicators who are experts in their
areas. Each adjudicator provided a set of constructive comments
in addition to the groups ratings. This event was a musical and
educational experience for all students who participated. We are
all extremely proud of the students hard work. Bravo!
All
six of West Islip's elementary schools participated in the West
Islip Breast Cancer Coalition May fundraiser.
Pictured with the principal of the Bellew Elementary School, Dan
Hunter (right, rear) are members of the Bellew Cares and Shares
Club, lead by teacher Dianna Grancagnolo. The youngsters
collected items for theme baskets to be raffled at the
Coalition's Annual Fashion Show.
Coalition President Margaret Campisi visited all the schools to
personally thank everyone for their donations in the attractive
baskets.
Seven
students in the Paul J. Bellew Elementary School in West Islip
were honored recently during the Town of Islip Student
Achievement Awards Night 2011 at Town Hall. Pictured with
Principal Dan Hunter are (front row) Dylan P., Paul P., Jimmy
L., Sarah X., (back row) Nicholas D., Julianna M. and Matthew D.
The youngsters were praised for Fine Arts, Math, Scholarship and
Athletics, Services to People in Need, and Technology. "We are
very proud of their accomplishments," said Mr. Hunter. The
students were selected from nomination forms submitted by their
teachers. Town officials make the final decisions as to who wins
recognition.
Several
recently-announced college bound athletes who will be playing
Division I or II athletics next year posed with West Islip High
School Principal Dr. Anthony Bridgeman (left, rear) Athletic
Director Tim Horan (right, rear) and Coaches Nick Grieco
(Varsity Girls Soccer) and Scott Craig (Varsity Boys Lacrosse).
The athletes are (back row, left to right) Doug W., Lacrosse,
Tampa University; Liam B., Lacrosse, Marquette University; James
T., Lacrosse, Dowling; (front row) Andrew S., Lacrosse, American
International College; Andrew F., Lacrosse, Fairfield
University; Lauren B., Soccer, C.W. Post; Marissa S., Soccer,
Mount St. Mary's University; Andrew P., Lacrosse, Lenoir-Rhyne
College; and Stephen P., Lacrosse, Lenoir-Rhyne College.
The
West Islip Board of Education recognized a number of the
district's outstanding scholar/athletes during a recent public
session, some of whom are seen here with Athletic Director Tim
Horan (right). Praised for their accomplishments were:
Girls Varsity Winter Track: All-County and All-County Academic -
Ali F. and Megan O'R. and All-County Annie O'C., Jessica B. and
Julie L.
Boys Varsity Winter Track: All-County Academic - Ryan T.
Boys Varsity Basketball: All-County Academic - Kyle T. and
Suffolk County's 2011 Leading 3-Point Shooter - James T.
WI
High School American Sign Language Level 4 students recently
participated in the Long Island Language Teachers (LILT)
language competition. The students competed in the ASL Song
Interpretation Competition and were awarded 1st, 2nd Place and
Honorable Mention. This is a great honor for these students.
Pictured from left to right are Honorable Mention- Marissa L.,
2nd Place- Chelsea B. and 1st Place- Lisa G.
The
Board of Education praised the district's Robotics Team and its
advisors recently during a public session.
Students honored were Lindsay C., Glenn M., D.J. H., Izzy G.,
Greg S., Jon S., Adam M., Jason C., John W., Salar A., Clayton
S., Sean H., Tom G., Ray G. and Alex V.
West
Islip Board of Education Vice President Annmarie LaRosa was a
guest speaker at Cub Scout Pack 279 Webelos den meeting recently
where she explained how the BOE works within the school district
and community. She also answered questions from the Scouts and
explained many of the roles that adults perform in helping
students get the most out of their educational experience.
The Scouts are in the process of earning their Scholar Activity
Badge.
Students
and staff in Oquenock Elementary School celebrated Earth Day
with an assembly for each grade with artist and children's
author Joyce Raimondo. She explained how "junk" can become fun
artwork. Each grade level created a smile face with various junk
and pieces available to them.
Pictured is a fifth grade class displaying their new creations.
Ms. Raimondo turns art into a playground for students, inviting
imagination in children's work and creativity while inducing
explosions of color. She is known for her award-winning Art
Explorers series through activities and adventures as the
youngsters learn about the world's great artists. Earth Day,
celebrated on April 22nd and intended to inspire appreciation of
the natural environment, was founded in the United States.
Earlier
this year, Paul J. Bellew fourth grader Theresa R. was the
winner of CBS TV 2 News contest titled "The African American
Hero Video-Essay Contest." The youngster wrote about B. Smith, a
pioneer in the lifestyle category whose talent and expertise
span a wide range of specialties. Theresa, in her video, pointed
out that Ms. Smith is a model, restaurateur, author of three
books, and TV host, as well as the first African American woman
to appear on the cover of Mademoiselle Magazine. Additionally,
she has a nationally syndicated cable Lifestyle program, "B.
Smith with Style," that is viewed in over 90 percent of the U.S.
and in 40 other countries.
Theresa won an XBOX 360 and a tour of CBS Studios for her
family.
B. (Barbara) Smith, impressed with the youngster's research,
invited Theresa, her class, teacher Janet Renganeschi, and
school Principal Dan Hunter into New York City for lunch so they
could all meet. Taking the LIRR on April 13th, the Bellew group
met the celebrity at B. Smith's restaurant and the gathering was
covered by Channel 2 News. Also there was a reporter and
photographer from Pulse Magazine. According to Mr. Hunter,
"Everyone had a terrific time and we're looking forward to the
coverage in the magazine."
West Islip teacher Dina Barone is the recipient of the Richard
Gazzola Teacher Fellowship Award. Presented to Ms. Barone during
the April Board of Education meeting, the award acknowledges her
excellent rapport with students and for addressing the various
needs and abilities of each and every child in her classroom. A
product of West Islip schools, Ms. Barone has been an English
teacher in the district since 2003. Introduced to the audience
by Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Curriculum &
Instruction Bernadette Burns, Ms. Barone serves as a
cheerleading coach and Student Council advisor in addition to
her teaching responsibilities at Udall Road Middle School. "She
brings an infectious enthusiasm to every task she undertakes,"
explained Ms. Burns. "Obviously, the Suffolk County PTA made the
right choice."
The
Teacher Fellowship Award was established by the New York State
PTA in 1961 to encourage excellent teachers to stay in the
classroom by providing opportunities to improve their teaching
skills, update their professional knowledge, and expand their
professional horizons. The Fellowship was named to honor "Master
Teacher" Richard Gazzola, who served on the State PTA Board of
Directors for many years prior to his untimely death in 1991.
West Islip teacher Dina Barone (left) was presented with the
Richard Gazzola Teacher Fellowship Award by Assistant
Superintendent for Secondary Curriculum & Instruction Bernadette
Burns during the April Board of Education meeting.
The
fourth grade students at Westbrook Elementary hosted their
annual “Biography Day” event. The students' objective was to
choose a famous American and research several different aspects
of their life by using the Big 6 format. Students then
summarized and synthesized their information to help organize a
written report. The students became that famous American for the
day and verbally shared their interesting and detailed facts
with parents, students, and the community.
This is a day that all of the students at Westbrook look forward
to each year.
In keeping with Westbrook Elementary School's long-standing
tradition, VIP Day was another hit this year! The VIPs (Very
Important Person) had the opportunity to spend time with the
students within their classroom. Some classes performed, some
created beautiful items together and other classes even
performed magic tricks! The students thoroughly enjoy the time
that they spend with their VIPs each year. This day allows the
students of Westbrook to show their pride in the classroom and
school work. A great day was had by all!
The
Long Island School Nutrition Association recently held its
annual competition in Bay Shore with three West Islip School
District food service workers participating. Sandy Brady
(Kirdahy School at Captree) prepared Pumpkin Pie Bars, Theresa
Rueb (Westbrook) prepared Whole Wheat Carrot Cupcakes with Cream
Cheese Frosting, and Cathy Weingarten (High School) prepared a
Three Bean Vegetable Minestrone Soup.
Ms. Brady won Second Place in the Dessert Category, reports Food
Services Director Suzanne Salus.
Allstate
Insurance Company Principal Agent James F. Jackson personally
presented $1,000 to West Islip High School after the company
awarded a grant request applied for by High School Associate
Principal Ellen Quaglio. The money is being used to put together
an assembly and day of special events geared toward preventing
driving while under the influence. "Our goal is to save young
people's lives," explained Mr. Jackson, who is a West Islip
resident and has presented similar checks to W.I.H.S. through
the years.
Among the items to be purchased with the donated funds is a
video camera that teacher Tina Schaefer's journalism class and
MSG Varsity after-school club will use to film the assembly. The
video will be shown to seniors on the day of their graduation
rehearsal as a reminder to say safe and not to drink or text
while driving. Pictured are (left to right) Mr. Jackson,
students Kristin, Shannon and Briana who are helping coordinate
the May 26th assembly, and Principal Dr. Anthony Bridgeman.
When
Manetuck Elementary School Principal Mary Anderson walked into
the building the other day, she was greeted by children and
staff lined up in the hallways, applauding her. "At first, I
didn't know what was happening," she said later. "Then I saw the
banner hanging from the ceiling." It stated, Congratulations Ms.
Anderson.
It's Ms. Anderson's 40th anniversary with the district, where
she has served as teacher, science mentor, and principal,
working in several of the district's schools. And, she's just
been named West Islip's 2011 Educator of the Year by PAWS, the
education foundation. Manetuck's revelry was coordinated by art
teacher Tom McGunnigle, who arranged for colorful paper flowers
to decorate the building and hung a sign that attributed
students' success to the leadership, guidance, warmth,
compassion, intelligence, and sincerity of Ms. Anderson. "We are
grateful flowers growing strong in her Manetuck garden,"
explained Mr. McGunnigle. "We congratulate Ms. Anderson on
receiving the 2011 PAWS Award."
PAWS
will present Ms. Anderson with the 2011 Outstanding Educator of
the Year Award during a Dinner-Dance Gala at the Venetian Yacht
Club in Babylon Village on April 29th. The Gala will begin at 6
p.m. and dinner will be served at 7:30 p.m. All monies raised
that night through the sale of tickets, journal ads, and raffles
will be used by PAWS to grant school district "wishes." PAWS
(Partners Advancing West Islip Students) is a not-for-profit
organization dedicated to enriching the educational experience.
The 501 (c) (3) association generates resources through
community support. To date, PAWS has donated over $225,000 of
materials to the district, including a $46,000 Recording Studio
for West Islip High School, a $25,000 Yamaha Baby Grand Piano
for the high school Performing Arts Theatre, SMART Boards for
classrooms, and a $5, 500 Book Nook Read Center. Barbara McAteer
is the current president. Tickets are $100 each and tables of 10
can be reserved. To purchase tickets or for more information,
contact Jamie Winkler at wre93@aol.com or 321-8400.
The
unexpected passing of West Islip High School Vocal Music
Director
Dr. Sal Fiore has brought an outpouring of admiration and
respect for his talent, professionalism, and dedication to the
community's youth. Dozens of former choral members traveled home
from college to attend the funeral service as a tribute to the
man some said "was like a father to us."
Pictured are West Islip High School singers with "Doc" at
Carnegie Hall in New York City in 2010.
The high school spring play, Clue, that was scheduled for April
11 & 13, has been rescheduled to May 12 & 13, 6 p.m., in the
Bellew Elementary School auditorium.
A
reading incentive program for third and fourth graders was
introduced earlier this year at the Paul J. Bellew Elementary
School. Established by the New York Knicks Basketball Team, the
Read to Achieve program offered elementary students reading
incentives. Additionally, the classes were entered into the
Knicks Most Spirited Contest for a chance to win tickets to a
Knicks game and meet the players.
Recently, the Bellew students won, as demonstrated by the
message sign at Madison Square Garden. The class photo shows the
students with their teacher, Maureen Lenowicz, and Librarian
Christine Maniscalco. With them is former New York Knicks player
John Starks.
On
the night before their season opener, members of the Girls'
Varsity Softball Team were treated to a complimentary pasta
party at Villa Monaco's Restaurant on Montauk Highway.
Pictured with restaurant owner Mr. Nick are teammates (left to
right, top) Gabrielle C., Kayley S., Danielle C., Daphne T.,
Gabriella C., Alexa B., Chelsea W., Annie G., Stevianne O.,
Marisa M., Gabriella N., Megan H., Kayla V. and Nikki Z.. Not
shown are Coaches Michelle Jantzen and Beth Crimi.
A
few Bayview students in fourth and fifth grade have recently
competed in the Town of Islip Sharpshooter Contest which was
held at West Islip High School over Winter Break. Bayview was
represented by Paul M. and Kaitlin B. in fifth grade and James
B. and Jillian C. in fourth grade.
Paul finished 4th and Jillian finished in 2nd Place for their
age group. This is the best results that our Bayview students
have ever accomplished. Great job to all of our students who
participated in the contest.
Pictured with physical education teacher, JoAnne Orehosky, are
sharp shooters Jillian and Paul
The Udall Road Middle School Vocal Ensemble performed
"God Bless America" between the first and second period of the
New York Islanders hockey game with the New York Rangers on
Thursday, March 31 at the Nassau Coliseum.
Congratulations to these music students and their instructor,
Bill Eidenback, for being selected for this honor.
Kidsday,
a popular page that is published periodically in Newsday "for
kids, by kids, mostly," sent a representative to Kirdahy
Elementary School at Captree recently after arranging for Justin
DeMaio's students to interview the author of the "Diary of a
Wimpy Kid" book series. The children were also able to meet the
actors from the new "Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules" movie,
which received three stars from Newsday critics and debuted as
the number one movie the weekend of March 25-27.
Pictured with fourth graders Nick D., Gianna F., Joseph T., and
Caitlin L. are author Jeff Kinney (rear) and the stars of the
movie, Zachary Gordon (left), Devon Bostick, and Robert Capron
(right). Kidsday, featuring Mr. DeMaio's students, will be
published in June.
"Pink
may seem like an odd choice," says Udall Road Middle School
Assistant Principal Sal Alaimo, "when it comes to getting people
to stand up against bullying. But pink is the color based on a
stand that was taken at a high school in Canada. The freshman
student who was making his first appearance in his new high
school showed up wearing a pink polo shirt and the school
bullies wasted no time in verbally abusing him." What followed
is a story that is being told in every high school across the
nation. Several students who heard about the bullying decided to
take a stand. They went to a department store and bought every
pink shirt they could find. They spread the word via social
networking sites of their intent to get all seniors to wear pink
the next day. They also handed out pink shirts to those who
needed one. The power the bullies had on the school, as well as
the new student, was diminished because other students stood up
against bullying. Joining in the effort are West Islip middle
school students, pictured here.
West
Islip High School student Dayna T. has been honored by Islip
Town officials for outstanding character, generosity, and sense
of community service. Dayna was recently the recipient of the
2010 Humanitarian of the Year Award, presented by the non-profit
organization, A Leg to Stand On. She was praised during a
ceremony on Park Avenue in New York City with over 1,000 people
in attendance. Mead Wells, founder of the organization that
raises awareness and provides service and orthopedic equipment
for amputee children, presented the award to Dayna. The West
Islip 12th grader raised $12,000 and collected orthopedic
equipment for young amputee survivors of the Haitian earthquake
last year. Dayna, a congenital amputee, recognizes the
importance of assisting children who have not been as fortunate
as those in this country in receiving proper medical care and
assistance, says her mom, Donna.
During the March 22nd ceremony in Islip Town Hall, Supervisor
Phil Nolan congratulated her on her many achievements.
Currently, she is selling bracelets to raise additional money
for A Leg to Stand On and the Amputee Coalition of America's
Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp.
Dayna is pictured with Supervisor Nolan and (left to right)
Councilmen Steve Flotteron and Gene Parrington, Mrs. Troisi,
Councilwoman Trish Bergin Weichbrodt, and Councilman John H.
Edwards.
The
2011 Long Island Youth Summit was held recently at Dowling
College in Oakdale, the purpose of which is to gather the
brightest and most active high school students aware of the
socio-economic, socio-medical, and environmental challenges
affecting the region. The summit provides the opportunity for
these outstanding students to engage in developing informed
solutions to the issues.
To qualify for inclusion in the summit, the students needed to
either write an essay or create a short video or art portfolio
discussing possible solutions to a suburban issue of their
choice. Among the choices were Environment on Long Island,
Preservation of Open Space, Protection of Water and Renewable
Energy, Long Island Economy and Business Environment, and
others.
Opening the summit were the Executive Director of the Citizens
Campaign for the Environment (CCE) Adrienne Esposito and West
Islip High School senior Kelly Douglas on the positive impact of
the summit. Summit finalists and their teachers participated in
topic workshops with 20 experts in the areas of business and
economics, governance, housing and transportation, environment,
education, and non-profit and civic activism where they have
opportunities to propose solutions to the issues affecting Long
Island. "The earlier we engage students with the important
issues of Long Island, the greater the chance these students
will remain here to see their solutions to fruition," commented
the co-chair of the summit and dean of the School of Education
at Dowling College, Dr. Clyde I. Payne.
Participating from West Islip High School were Kelly D., Gina
I., Juliet F., Griffin B., Jaclyn V., Nina R., JP S., Rob Fr,
Andrew C., Chris K., Kris C., Alexia F. and Alex R..
Seven West Islip High School students attended the 51st annual
New York State DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America)
Career Conference in Rochester from March 8 through 11.
Accompanied by Chapter Advisor Diana Saadat and student-teacher
Sarah Lipman, the teens were provided with learning
opportunities in marketing education through goal-oriented
activities with a focus on developing greater understanding and
appreciation of marketing, management, and entrepreneurship.
According to Ms. Saadat, the conference highlighted several DECA
goals: civic consciousness, social intelligence, leadership
development, and vocational understanding.
Excelling
in their competitive events were West Islip students William H.
and Madeline McEl., Accounting Applications, and John H.,
Marketing Management. Students who placed in the prestigious
"Top Ten" as finalists for their events were Zach C., General
Marketing; Ashley M., Retail Merchandising, and Josh T.,
Accounting Applications. Special congratulations were given to
Lori I., who was awarded third place in Public
Speaking-Prepared. Lori, who is chapter president, has advanced
to the International Career Development Conference being held
April 30 in Orlando, Florida, reports Ms. Saadat. Enthusiastic
after her win, Lori said, "This is the first time in four years
that I have taken home the gold. I have worked very hard for
this; it is so rewarding to win."
Ms. Saadat, pleased with the students' individual
accomplishments, pointed out that West Islip competed with
thousands of students from across the state. "Their hard work
and achievements are commendable," she said.
West Islip DECA students are pictured with Chapter Advisor Diana
Saadat (left) and student-teacher and chaperone Sarah Lipman
(right) in Rochester. The students are (left to right) John H.,
Madeline McE., Bill H., Lori I,, Josh T,, Ashley M, and Zach C,.
Ride
for Life, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation founded in 1998
by ALS (commonly known as Lou Gehrig's Disease) patients. Each
year, ALS members ride their electric wheelchairs down highways
and byways to raise funds for a cure and to create awareness.
Over the last seven years, ALS participants have ridden their
wheelchairs from Yankee Stadium to Washington D.C. and from
Montauk Point to Manhattan, helping to raise over $1.5 million.
Recently, and for the third consecutive year, Ride for Life
co-founder Chris Pendergast visited the Oquenock Elementary
School on his way to New York City. Students and staff lined the
school bus circle to cheer on Mr. Pendergast and fellow ALS
survivors.
Mr. Pendergast (pictured with Principal Dawn Morrison and music
teacher Pam Cirasole, thanked the children for their donations
to ALS research. Additionally, he spoke with the youngsters
about the importance of never giving up, no matter the size of
the obstacle they face.
West
Islip School District is one of fewer than 400 districts in the
nation to be honored by the College Board with a place on its AP
(Advanced Placement) Achievement List for opening AP classroom
doors to a significantly broader pool of students, while
maintaining or improving the percentage of students earning
scores of 3 or higher. From 2008 to 2010, West Islip has
increased the number of students participating in AP programs
from 202 to 225 while improving the percentage of students
earning AP scores of 3 or higher. "Three" is the score typically
needed to earn college credit, from 80 percent in 2008 to 83
percentage in 2010.
Helping additional students learn at a higher level and earn
higher AP scores is an objective of all members of the AP
community, from AP teachers to district and school
administrators to college professors.
Inclusion on the AP Achievement List is based on the following
criteria:
1. Examination of three years of AP data
2. Increase in participating in/access to AP by at least seven
percent in medium-sized districts
3. A steady or increasing percentage of exams taken by African
American, Hispanic/Latino and American Indian/Alaska Native
students
4. Performance levels maintained or improved when comparing the
percentage of exams in 2010 scoring a 3 or higher to those in
2008, or the school has already attained a performance level in
which more than 70 percent of the AP students are scoring a 3 or
higher.
The College Board believes that an investment in education is an
investment in the future. It seeks to ensure that every student
has access to a high-quality education and is prepared to
succeed in college. Through Advanced Placement college-level
courses and exams, high school students can earn college credit
and advanced placement and learn from some of the most skilled,
dedicated and inspiring teachers in the world. The College Board
is composed of nearly 6,000 colleges, universities, secondary
schools and districts, higher education systems, and other
non-profit organizations.
Each
year the PTA Reflections Program challenges students to create
art inspired by a specific theme. For the 2010-2011 school year,
that theme was "Together we can..." The children participate by
submitting entries to their local PTA in categories that include
dance choreography, film production, literature, musical
composition, photography, and visual arts. The national PTA
believes that when children express themselves through pictures,
music, and other art forms, they grow intellectually and
socially; they learn to analyze their thoughts, feelings and
ideas.
Pictured at the Oquenock Elementary School are students who
participated in Reflections this year. With them is Principal
Dawn Morrison.
Mrs. Paul E. Kirdahy, widow of former West Islip Superintendent
of Schools Paul Kirdahy, for whom the Kirdahy Elementary School
at Captree is named, made a visit to the school on March 21st.
Joining her were son Neil, his wife Susan, their two sons from
Massachusetts, and cousin Jade from Smithtown. They brought a
large gift box, colorfully decorated by the children, that
contained new books for the school library. The new volumes will
have handcrafted icon stickers applied, designating them as part
of the Kirdahy Family Library. The K-initial stickers were
designed by computer Teaching Assistant Greg Murphy. "The new
books were presented completely processed and catalogued," says
Library-Media Specialist Donna Mazur, which she explained "was a
very thoughtful additional expense covered by the Kirdahys." The
presentation was followed by the three Kirdahy grandchildren
each reading a favorite story to Pat Chieffo's first grade
class.
Three Kirdahy grandchildren
recently visited the Kirdahy Elementary School at
Captree in West Islip, bringing a large box of new books
to be added to the school library. Included are "The
Chronicles of Narnia" and a sports series, to name just
a few. Pictured in the Kirdahy school library are
Cameron, Jade and Andrew.
The Kirdahy Family (left) joined Pat Chieffo's first grade class
and Library-Media Specialist Donna Mazur in the Kirdahy
Elementary School at Captree in West Islip. The family donated a
gift box of new children's books and the three Kirdahy
grandchildren each read a favorite story to first graders.
Granddaughter of the late West Islip Superintendent of Schools
Paul K. Kirdahy and Mrs. Kirdahy, Jade selected a favorite story
to read to first graders, Jade, 8 1/2, read "Every Year on Your
Birthday," by Rose A. Lewis "because I like birthdays" she said.
West Islip winter track student-athletes were recognized
recently during a ceremony at the Hyatt Regency, receiving
Academic and Athletic All-County awards.
Pictured are (left to
right) Coach Anthony Yuli, Ryan T. Coach Tara Probert, Ali F.,
Megan O'R. and Coach Christopher Kaigh. The student-athletes
were praised for their accomplishments on the field and the
classroom where they achieved averages of 90 or higher.
All
faculty, students, and staff are encouraged to wear a t-shirt or
sweatshirt with a college logo on College Awareness Day, April 7. This event helps to promote
awareness of college opportunities and stimulates discussion of
post-secondary planning. The College Awareness Day is also being
held in conjunction with our
Annual College Fair from 7 to 9 p.m.
Please help to make this day a success by wearing a shirt from
your alma mater or the college of your dreams.
Every
year, fifth grade art students at Westbrook Elementary School
select an African American person, who has served as an
inspiration to others, to research and paint in recognition of
Black History Month. Using a book created by art teacher Jill
Culver, the youngsters preview choices of interesting people.
The children follow a step by step lesson on the placement of
features on a full face portrait and using acrylic paint,
markers and colored pencils, make the portraits come to life.
Ms. Culver reports that when the paintings are finished, each
child display his or her work and explains to classmates the
inspiration behind their choice.
Pictured are (top row) Maria with Wilma Rudolph, Jake with
Jackie Robinson, Matt with Michael Jordan, Patrick with Scott
Joplin, Cassie with Laila Ali, (bottom row) Sydney with Oprah
Winfrey, Cayla with Mae Jemison, Krista with Phillis Wheatley,
and Aaron with Queen Latifah.
The
St. Baldrick's Foundation is a charity committed to funding the
most promising research to find cures for childhood cancers and
give survivors long and healthy lives This volunteer-driven
organization reports that every dollar is spent wisely and has
it annual report and other legal documents on its website. The
theme this year involves shaving heads, demonstrating
understanding and compassion with children who are being treated
for cancer and in the process lose their hair.
At Oquenock Elementary School, Principal Dawn Morrison stopped
to praise three brothers who participated in an effort to raise
additional funds. She also asked to have her photo taken with
them. They are ((left to right) Dale, grade 4, and twins Shane
and Colin, who are kindergarteners.
Congratulations
to Westbrook fifth grader, Erin, for placing third in the Town
of Islip Sharp Shooter contest. Over 40 schools participated in
this years event.
For more than 20 years the Town of Islip Sharp Shooter Contest
has been held in the spirit of friendly competition,
highlighting what people can accomplish when they "SAY NO" to
the detrimental effects of drugs and alcohol.
Pictured with Erin is principal, Jack Maniscalco and Coaches
Throo and Lewis.
Imagine
the planet free of pollution, pesticides, no global warming, and
more. That's the Disney Planet Challenge for students, with
lessons tailored to national education standards. All subjects
are explored: science (environmental studies), language arts
(reading while researching), writing and editing (grant, letter,
and journal writing), oral language skills (presentations,
conferences), social studies (historical impacts), math
(fundraising, graphs and data analysis), and visual and
performing arts (artwork and informational displays).
West Islip's fourth and fifth graders formed an Elementary
Research Club, led by teachers and advisors Theresa Robertson
and Vivian Hollinger. The
youngsters decided to find ways to reduce the number of
mosquitoes on Long Island without the use of pesticides - which
is harmful to animals and sea life - as their Disney Challenge
entry. WISE (West Islip Student Enrichment) Coordinator Vivian
Hollinger says, "The students comprised of 4th and 5th
graders district-wide came together as a team and were dedicated
to making a difference in our community. We are so proud of
them!"
The children wrote
letters to Lowe's in Bay Shore seeking birdhouse kits, which the
company provided and enlisted assistance from its employees.
Forty birdhouses are being set up with the promise that birds
eat mosquitoes. The Elementary Research Club also used Ms.
Robertson's gourds, grown at home, to make birdhouses. The seeds
that were removed have been planted, while others were placed in
seed packets with instructions on how to decrease the mosquito
population. They will be distributed to visitors at the school
district's Celebrate Education event on May 17th. Additionally,
the club took a field trip to Seatuck in Islip, a nature and
education center where conserving Long Island wildlife is
practiced through education, research, and advocacy. A portfolio
has been created and submitted to Disney; the students will
learn in April how their project scored. Last year, the West
Islip club was New York State runner-up.
Pictured are some Elementary Research Club members with
birdhouse kits supplied by Lowe's in Bay Shore. The men helping
the youngsters build the birdhouses are Lowe's employees.
For
Red Ribbon Week at the Paul J. Bellew Elementary School, where
bright red "Drug Free and Proud of It" banners hang, a student
assembly included guest speaker and Board of Education Trustee
Mike Zotto. A retired New York City Police detective, Mr. Zotto
administered the Drug Free for Life Pledge. "We hope that what
you learn here in elementary school will be carried into middle
school," he told the youngsters who had their right hands in the
air ready to take the oath.
Later, Mr. Zotto answered questions for the youngsters. Red
Ribbon Week is the oldest and largest drug prevention campaign
in the country and serves as a way to take a stand for the hopes
and dreams of children through a commitment to drug prevention
and education.
In an
effort to recognize acts of kindness at Bayview
Elementary School, the Character Education Committeekicked
off its
“Kindness Coins” program.
All staff members were given colored coins to present to
studentswho
demonstrate acts of kindness and citizenship.
One
of Principal Rhonda Pratt's favorite Kindness Coin stories
happened when Rob, the custodian, was in the library trying to
find books for his young son. Two fourth grade girls asked
him if he needed help and led him over to the Dr. Seuss books.
Later, Rob went to Ms. Pratt's office determined to learn
who the helpful girls were. The young ladies were in Denise Campasano’s
class and the next day Rob went to the classroom to give each a
Kindness Coin.
"It's wonderful
to see such building-wide enthusiasm for celebrating kindness,"
says Ms. Pratt. She's pictured at the Bank of Kindness
with student, Miranda, who also received a coin for doing
something nice.
For the first time, the Oquenock
Elementary School principal presented her Character
Education Award to three children in the same family at
the same time: Amber, Ava and Kayla are in kindergarten,
second grade and fifth grade, respectively.
The award is given to students who show their concern
about others and provide assistance. Awarded for their
ability to befriend others in need, demonstrate
compassion above and beyond, and for always being
willing to provide assistance, the three sisters were
praised by Principal Dawn Morrison (pictured).
Fourth
grader Theresa R. paid close attention to what her West Islip
teacher was telling her class at the Paul J. Bellew Elementary
School. Janet Renganeschi was speaking about a WCBS-TV News
competition titled "The African American Hero Video-Essay
Contest." After giving it some thought, she selected her subject
- B. Smith - did the research and asked her dad to help with the
video. B. (Barbara) Smith, a pioneer in the lifestyle category
whose talent and expertise span a wide range of specialties,
intrigued Theresa, who pointed out in her video that the model,
restaurateur, author of three books, and TV host was the first
African American woman to appear on the cover of Mademoiselle
Magazine. Ms. Smith's nationally syndicated cable lifestyle
television show, "B. Smith with Style," is viewed in over 90
percent of the U.S. and in 40 countries.
Theresa's informative, interesting, and nicely-done video won, beating out
thousands of other contestants. The win earned her a live TV
interview - which she said was very exciting - an XBOX 360, and
a tour of CBS Studios for her family. She also won the
Principal's Award from Bellew Elementary School Principal Dan
Hunter (left), who says, "I'm sure we'll be hearing many more
great things from this young lady," as well as a hug from her
teacher, Ms. Renganeschi. This week, Mr. Hunter invited B. Smith
to visit the school to meet the youngster in person. Everyone is
awaiting her response.
Jump
Rope for Heart is an annual event that raises money for the
American Heart Association. In return, students learn about the
importance of the heart - how it works and how to care for it.
Additionally, it teaches youngsters that it feels good to make a
difference in other people's lives. Funds raised support heart
research and education initiatives.
At the Paul J. Bellew Elementary School, students' interest in
participating was encouraged by a fun challenge made by physical
education teachers Colleen Reilly and Joe Nicolosi. If enough
students participated - before classes began one morning - and a
respectable amount of money was raised and donated, the children
could duct tape them.
Of course there was an excellent turnout and by the end of the
day, over $11,000 had been raised for the American Heart
Association. The large amount of money brought a "Wow!" from
Principal Dan Hunter, pictured in one of the photos while
speaking into a microphone. Kindergarten, first and second
graders taped their gym teachers to the floor, while the third,
fourth and fifth graders taped them to a wall.
Yes
it was a gorilla in the tree waving to Bellew Elementary School
students. Principal Dan Hunter had promised his students that if
they read the requested number of books during the Parents as
Reading Partners (PARP) program this year, he would have a
surprise for them. That principal's challenge certainly did
surprise the youngsters, as well as parents, bus drivers,
teachers, and support staff. One child waved back saying "Hi Mr.
Hunter," knowing that only he would climb a tree and eat a
banana to reinforce the importance of reading - the foundation
of all learning.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), a combination of rescue
breathing and chest compression, is given to victims in cardiac
arrest. When cardiac arrest occurs, the heart stops pumping
blood and CPR can support a small amount of blood flow to the
heart and brain to "buy time" until normal heart function is
restored. CPR is taught to West Islip students, in addition to
training in the use of automated external defibrillators (AED),
an added tool in the fight to save a life.
Pictured are students preparing for testing for CPR and AED
certification in Trish Mileti's health class.
Lionheart, the community organization that was formed by West
Islip School District administrators in the weeks following the
9-11 tragedy and then expanded within the hamlet, has been
assisting local families in crisis. Funds are raised through a
variety of events, which in February included selling Lionheart
Hearts for $1 apiece. Each school building has set up its own
display of hearts that features the purchasers' names.
Pictured
are Bellew Elementary School's Brett, a second grader, as he
searches for hearts with names of his classmates and teacher,
and Oquenock Elementary School's Jack, also a second grader, in
front of the display in the school lobby. Jack bought three
hearts so he could put his brother's name on one and his dog,
Murray, on another.
The Lionheart Hearts project is coordinated by Kirdahy at
Captree Elementary School Principal John Mullins and the funds
are overseen by the West Islip Summit. Families helped in recent
years have included two who have experienced, for example, a
terminal illness and a devastating fire.
Oquenock
Elementary School's Parents As Reading Partners (PARP) program
this year was titled "Wild About Reading." Students were
challenged to read for at least 15 minutes each night and move
Muscles the Monkey up the school lobby tree. Upon meeting the
challenge, the children asked Principal Dawn Morrison to dress
up as the school district's mascot, the lion, and show that she,
too, is wild about reading.
Additionally, an assembly hosted by the PTA featured a guest
speaker who painted faces of different animals on the youngsters
while telling them stories. According to one mother, Lesley
Keane, "It was an exciting time in Oquenock and the students had
a lot of fun reading."
Pictured with the West Islip Mascot are (left to right) first
graders J.T., Derek, and Grace.
Westbrook Elementary School students Rebecca and Alexa, and
Bellew students Morgan and Lauren, will be representing their schools and
the West Islip community at the 21st Annual Legislative Student
Art Exhibit in Albany February 28th through March 4th. This
exhibit is organized each year by the New York State Art
Teachers Association (NYSATA) in collaboration with the NYS
Alliance for Arts Education and the New York State Legislators.
The exhibit highlights artwork from students at the elementary
through high school levels across the state.
A reception to honor the young artists and their families will
be held on Wednesday, March 2, 2011 from 12:30-2pm at the
Legislative Office Building in Albany.
Pictured are Morgan with her Fire Island light house painting and Lauren with her Mayflower ship painting.
accompanied by art teacher Mrs. Stephenson and
Bellew Principal Dan Hunter.
Pictured with Rebecca and Alexa are
Westbrook
Principal Jack Maniscalco
and art teacher Jill Culver.
Guest Reader Days at Paul J. Bellew Elementary School included a
number of district administrators spending time with students
and favorite books. Director of English and Language Arts K-12
Karen Appollo read "Stellaluna" to a first grade class,
Superintendent of Schools Richard A. Simon read, "Thank You, Mr.
Falker" to a third grade class, and Principal Dan Hunter read "Shel
Silverstein Poems" to a second grade class. School Librarian
Christine Maniscalco reports, "Everyone had a great time."
Each
year, thousands of schools across the country take part in the
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital fundraiser known as the
Math-a-Thon. The Math-a-Thon is a free, education-based program
for grades kindergarten though 8th grade that helps students
improve their math skills and comprehension while raising money
for research. The program, developed by Scholastic, is designed
to complement existing curriculums while teaching youngsters the
importance of helping others.
This year, Paul J. Bellew Elementary School in West Islip raised
over $3,000 for St. Jude's. One student, Sarah, who raised more
than $100 herself in sponsorships by completing a book of math
problems, donated back to the hospital the value of prizes she
had won. Sarah is shown with Principal Dan Hunter, who says she
is "an exceptionally sweet and generous child."
A reading incentive program for third and fourth graders has
been introduced at the Paul J. Bellew Elementary School.
Established by the New York Knicks Basketball Team, the Read to
Achieve program provides 100 classes in New York State
elementary schools with reading incentive items that include
bookmarks, notebooks, rulers and pens as rewards for reading
achievement. Additionally, these classes are entered in the
Knicks
Most-Spirited Contest for the chance to win free tickets to
attend Knicks games and to personally meet with players on the
court. Six classes at Bellew have been chosen, reports school
Librarian Christine Maniscalco (pictured). The students will
have designated reading zones set up in their classrooms and in
the Library Media Center. Student reading achievement and goals
may include, but are not limited to:
* Number of books read
* Drawings of stories
* Reader Responses
* Book reports
* Postcards received from Knicks Reading Lounge at
www.powertolearn.com
* Books viewed in Knicks Video books at www.powertolearn.com
West
Islip High School seniors Joseph V. (right) and Mark F. won
second place honors recently in the Greater New York Automobile
Dealers Association Regional Competition in Whitestone, NY. Both
young men are attending morning automotive training classes at
the Edward J. Milliken Technical Center in Oakdale while
attending WIHS in the afternoon.
In addition to winning a trophy, they were offered college
scholarships at several technical colleges. Joseph has accepted
a $3,000 scholarship from Universal Technical Institute in
Pennsylvania where he will taking automotive classes and
training by the Ford Dealership. Mark, who turned down a $7,500
scholarship from Lincoln Technical Institute to study Automotive
Technology, plans to stay local.
The
first graders in Westbrook have been learning all about
different types of animals in science. Some of these animals
consist of mammals, insects, birds, and reptiles. On February 1,
2011 we were visited by Erik’s Reptile Edventures.
Our presenter, Erik, was very dynamic! The students got to see,
touch, and even hold a giant lizard, frogs, a huge tortoise, a
large turtle, an alligator, a Burmese Python and a 12 foot
Anaconda. Erik’s presentation was a wonderful, hands-on,
culmination to our animals unit. This interactive show was both
informative and fun. We had a great time and learned a lot about
reptiles!
The New York Islanders ice hockey team recently visited Kirdahy
Elementary School at Captree, invited by teacher Justin DeMaio
and Principal John Mullins.
The team, along with mascot Sparky,
provides an All Islanders School Assembly Program with hockey
themed lessons covering reading, writing, math, physical
education, and health.
Participants learn about the importance
of teamwork during an interactive assembly that draws
comparisons between being on a hockey team and a student in the
classroom by using a video presentation, student participation,
and Islander school supplies.
"Don't bug me; I'm reading," is a popular comment around the
Paul J. Bellew Elementary School these days as students
participate in this year's Parents as Reading Partners (PARP)
project designed to foster the love of reading in children by
asking families to see aside 15 minutes a day to read with their
youngsters. Reading is the foundation of all learning and
creates a strong, positive influence for a lifetime of
significant benefits. This year's Bellew PARP catch phrase is
emphasized by colorful paper bugs decorating the building, much
to the children's delight.
Pictured at the school's ant hill are Jaden, Brianna,
Bryana and Claudia with two of the posters they made to
reinforce the message. With them are School Librarian
Christine Maniscalco and Principal Dan Hunter.
Pictured trying to catch colorful butterflies are Robert, Kyle, Nick, Anthony and Anthony.
An
unknown author penned, "It's nice to be important, but it's more
important to be nice."
At the Paul J. Bellew Elementary School, a winter-decorated
wall, complete with paper snow flakes, is attracting attention.
Soon to be printed on those snowflakes are the names of students
who have been doing nice things for others. Pictured with
Principal Dan Hunter, whose idea of the Kindness Wall is reaping
many benefits, are Zach and Miles. Their goal is to see their
names posted numerous times before winter ends.
Like a Russian proverb states: "A kind word is like a Spring
day."
Teacher Noreen Matthews, a social studies teacher in West Islip High School, has been awarded a Fulbright Classroom Teacher Exchange Grant to teach in Glasgow, Scotland for a year, it was announced recently. Ms. Matthews is one of approximately 60 U.S. citizens who will travel abroad for the 2011-12 Fulbright Program, reports the United States Department of State and the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. Nikki Sutherland from Glasgow High School will be replacing Ms. Matthews in West Islip.
The Fulbright Program is the international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government and is designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and those of other countries. Recipients are selected on the basis of academic or professional achievement, as well as demonstrated leadership potential in their fields. Since its establishment in 1946 under legislation introduced by the late U.S. Senator J. William Fulbright of Arkansas, the program provides opportunities to study, teach and conduct research, exchange ideas and contribute to finding solutions to shared international concerns. Fulbright alumni have achieved distinction in government, science, the arts, business, education and athletics. Forty Fulbright alumni from 11 countries have been awarded the Nobel Prize.
West Islip High School social studies teacher Noreen Matthews (pictured in the front row, third from the left, with several of her students in Guatemala) has received a 2011-2012 Fulbright Scholarship and will be teaching in Scotland.
West Islip students in the West Islip Student Enrichment (WISE) Challenge Program were among 150,000 worldwide to join in the Math Olympiad for elementary schools grades 4-6. They participated in a series of five monthly problems each, from November to March, weekly practice sessions under the supervision and coaching of teacher and Challenge Facilitator Theresa Robertson, and went to Stony Brook University to compete. She taught the children to solve unusual and difficult problems and to think creatively. The youngsters responded well, she reports, and all were recognized with certificates of participation. Of the 53 West Islip students who entered the competition, 26 received awards for accomplishments at the local level.
Who
killed Sam the Clam is a question that interested West Islip
fourth graders. Under the guidance of West Islip Schoolwide
Enrichment (WISE) Discovery Facilitator Vivian. Hollinger, the
students investigated the cause of the decrease of the local
clam and scallop population. Their research led them to the
conclusion that fertilizer and the humans who utilized it were
guilty of causing nutrient pollution in the Great South Bay.
Student Madison M. commented “People put down too much
fertilizer that runs off into the bay and pollutes the water.”
The children also concluded that because of the over harvesting
of clams in the late 1970s, the mussels have not had a chance to
recover. “I believe that clams are important resources because
they are filter feeders and without them, brown algae grows and
spreads. We would not be able to swim in the water,” stated
Brian P., another fourth grader. 
The West Islip Valedictorian and Salutatorian of 2011 are Casey Lee McLaughlin and Robyna Mamoor, respectively. They're pictured here with Principal Dr. Anthony Bridgeman (left) and Superintendent Richard A. Simon.
The first annual Friedlander Upstander Award, a $2,500
scholarship from the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center,
has been presented to West Islip student Brooke DiP.. The
Holocaust Center on Long Island is known for it
tolerance/anti-bullying workshops that teach young people how to
move from indifference to action. Students are taught about
anti-Semitism, racism and other manifestations of intolerance.
Sharon Bieselin, a West Islip Board of Education Trustee for nine years, said goodbye to her colleagues during the June public session, completing three full terms in the position. Board President Steve Gellar presented her with a plaque for her "exemplary service to the school district and community."
Members of the West Islip Boys' Varsity Tennis Team and Coach George Botsch recently attended the Suffolk County Tennis Coaches Association Awards Banquet.
During
the week of May 9th the children and staff at Westbrook
Elementary School in West Islip celebrated “Food Allergy
Awareness Week.” Parent coordinators, Mrs. Coppola and Mrs.
Rogler created a program of events to help educate the children
about food allergies. 
The
Manetuck Elementary School Fifth Grade Chorus inspired the crowd
at Bethpage Stadium with a rousing rendition of “God Bless
America” during the Memorial Day weekend, reports Principal Mary
Anderson. 
Two
special events were celebrated at Bayview Elementary School:
Arbor Day and the Peace Walk. Wanting to establishing a better
and more sustainable quality of life through tree-planting,
Principal Rhonda Pratt and Islip Town Councilman Steve Flotteron
guided students in the planting of six attractive cherry blossom
trees - provided by the Town - in front of the school. Ms. Pratt
read a book about the history of Arbor Day to kindergarteners
who came outside for the special event. She explained to them
that Arbor Day was first held in 1872 in Nebraska when
agriculturist J. Sterling Morton decided the state's landscape
need improvement. Millions of trees were given new homes
throughout the state. President Richard Nixon, in 1970, declared
the last Friday in April as Arbor Day's national day of
recognition.
Trying
to get the message across to teenagers about driving safely is
no easy task. There's an inherent belief among most that they
are infallible. But as tough as the challenge was for West Islip
High School Associate Principal Ellen Quaglio and her team of
student assistants, the assembly for the Senior Class on May
26th will be remembered as hitting its mark. "Safe Teen Driving
2011" featured two guest speakers including one who cried at the
microphone, a film provided by the Fraternal Order of Police,
and the essay "Please God, I'm Only 17," read by a student.
While
Long Islanders dealt with an abundance of snow and ice this past
winter, Antigua Guatemala residents were enjoying an average
temperature of 70 degrees. That’s because Antigua is in the
tropics and has nice weather all year long. During the summer,
it’s a popular destination for students learning Spanish and
year around it’s a destination site for tourist interested in
the spectacular ruins of colonial churches. Antigua is a UNESCO
Heritage Site, meaning it is of special cultural or physical
significance. It is also one of the poorest countries in Latin
America. 
reported.” 
West
Islip fourth grader Brianna S. has received the New York State
PTA Award of Excellence. The Kirdahy Elementary School student
is one of only 24 in the entire state advancing to the National
PTA level of judging in the Reflections competition that will
take place in June. The theme this year is "Together We Can."
The
West Islip Board of Education and Superintendent of Schools
Richard A. Simon honored the school nurses during the May public
meeting. School Nurse Day 2011 was celebrated on May 11th with
the hope of fostering a better understanding of the role school
nurses play in the educational setting.
Each
year on National Teacher Appreciation Day, thousands of
communities take time to honor their local educators and
acknowledge the crucial role they play in making sure every
student receives a quality education. 
On
March 11, 2011 a massive earthquake and tsunami hit Japan. This
natural disaster has impacted the lives of thousands of people
not only in Japan but in many other countries around the world.
As part of Westbrook Elementary School's Character Counts
Education Program, students decorated a "helping hand"
along with contributing a donation. Their support helped
demonstrate their dedication to this very worthwhile cause. This
helped to instill a sense of responsibility and compassion in
the children and for that we are thankful. We are so proud of
our students. Together they really did make a difference.
West
Islip High School students representing Future Business Leaders
of America (FBLA) and the Business & Marketing Honor Society
(BMHS) attended "Business and Marketing Day" at Six Flags Great
Adventure in New Jersey. With them were Advisors Joanne Fevang,
Joanne Macrelli and Monica Krawczvk, who reported that the
students were eager to share in the unique opportunity with
media personalities from the corporate world. The business
professionals who attended shared their experiences about their
duties and responsibilities. The teens inquired about successful
career paths of established professionals from television, radio
and newspapers. Radio personality "Greg T" from New York station
Z-100, was one of many who answered various questions regarding
daily tasks and various celebrities interviewed. The West Islip
students joined peers from other districts in participating in
this celebration of business education.
The
West Islip Varsity Cheerleading Team, under the guidance of
Ariana Stubbmann and Megan Ross, recently took 3rd Place in the
Long Island Competitive Cheerleading championships. This is the
third consecutive year the cheerleading team has placed in the
Top Five on Long Island, reports Tim Horan, Director of Physical
Education, Health, Athletics and Recreation.
On
Saturday April 30th, 2011, West Islip’s Beach Street Middle
School 7th and 8th grade Band and Orchestra took home two first
place trophies from the Music In The Parks competition. Music In
The Parks is an interstate music festival/competition attended
by tens of thousands of student musicians across North America
every spring. For the second consecutive year the Beach Street
Middle School instrumental ensembles attended the festival in
Allentown, Pennsylvania at Dorney Park. The Beach Street Middle
School 7th and 8th grade band, under the direction of Mr. Steven
Smith, received first place for the Division 1A Middle School
Concert Band competition while the Beach Street Middle School
7th and 8th grade orchestra, under the direction of Miss
Lynnette O’Hanlon, received first place for the Division 1A
Middle School String Orchestra competition. 
All
six of West Islip's elementary schools participated in the West
Islip Breast Cancer Coalition May fundraiser.
Seven
students in the Paul J. Bellew Elementary School in West Islip
were honored recently during the Town of Islip Student
Achievement Awards Night 2011 at Town Hall. Pictured with
Principal Dan Hunter are (front row) Dylan P., Paul P., Jimmy
L., Sarah X., (back row) Nicholas D., Julianna M. and Matthew D.
Several
recently-announced college bound athletes who will be playing
Division I or II athletics next year posed with West Islip High
School Principal Dr. Anthony Bridgeman (left, rear) Athletic
Director Tim Horan (right, rear) and Coaches Nick Grieco
(Varsity Girls Soccer) and Scott Craig (Varsity Boys Lacrosse).
The athletes are (back row, left to right) Doug W., Lacrosse,
Tampa University; Liam B., Lacrosse, Marquette University; James
T., Lacrosse, Dowling; (front row) Andrew S., Lacrosse, American
International College; Andrew F., Lacrosse, Fairfield
University; Lauren B., Soccer, C.W. Post; Marissa S., Soccer,
Mount St. Mary's University; Andrew P., Lacrosse, Lenoir-Rhyne
College; and Stephen P., Lacrosse, Lenoir-Rhyne College.
The
West Islip Board of Education recognized a number of the
district's outstanding scholar/athletes during a recent public
session, some of whom are seen here with Athletic Director Tim
Horan (right). Praised for their accomplishments were:
WI
High School American Sign Language Level 4 students recently
participated in the Long Island Language Teachers (LILT)
language competition. The students competed in the ASL Song
Interpretation Competition and were awarded 1st, 2nd Place and
Honorable Mention. This is a great honor for these students.
The
Board of Education praised the district's Robotics Team and its
advisors recently during a public session. 
West
Islip Board of Education Vice President Annmarie LaRosa was a
guest speaker at Cub Scout Pack 279 Webelos den meeting recently
where she explained how the BOE works within the school district
and community. She also answered questions from the Scouts and
explained many of the roles that adults perform in helping
students get the most out of their educational experience. 
Students
and staff in Oquenock Elementary School celebrated Earth Day
with an assembly for each grade with artist and children's
author Joyce Raimondo. She explained how "junk" can become fun
artwork. Each grade level created a smile face with various junk
and pieces available to them. 
Earlier
this year, Paul J. Bellew fourth grader Theresa R. was the
winner of CBS TV 2 News contest titled "The African American
Hero Video-Essay Contest." The youngster wrote about B. Smith, a
pioneer in the lifestyle category whose talent and expertise
span a wide range of specialties. Theresa, in her video, pointed
out that Ms. Smith is a model, restaurateur, author of three
books, and TV host, as well as the first African American woman
to appear on the cover of Mademoiselle Magazine. Additionally,
she has a nationally syndicated cable Lifestyle program, "B.
Smith with Style," that is viewed in over 90 percent of the U.S.
and in 40 other countries.
The
Teacher Fellowship Award was established by the New York State
PTA in 1961 to encourage excellent teachers to stay in the
classroom by providing opportunities to improve their teaching
skills, update their professional knowledge, and expand their
professional horizons. The Fellowship was named to honor "Master
Teacher" Richard Gazzola, who served on the State PTA Board of
Directors for many years prior to his untimely death in 1991.
The
Long Island School Nutrition Association recently held its
annual competition in Bay Shore with three West Islip School
District food service workers participating. Sandy Brady
(Kirdahy School at Captree) prepared Pumpkin Pie Bars, Theresa
Rueb (Westbrook) prepared Whole Wheat Carrot Cupcakes with Cream
Cheese Frosting, and Cathy Weingarten (High School) prepared a
Three Bean Vegetable Minestrone Soup.
Allstate
Insurance Company Principal Agent James F. Jackson personally
presented $1,000 to West Islip High School after the company
awarded a grant request applied for by High School Associate
Principal Ellen Quaglio. The money is being used to put together
an assembly and day of special events geared toward preventing
driving while under the influence. "Our goal is to save young
people's lives," explained Mr. Jackson, who is a West Islip
resident and has presented similar checks to W.I.H.S. through
the years. 
When
Manetuck Elementary School Principal Mary Anderson walked into
the building the other day, she was greeted by children and
staff lined up in the hallways, applauding her. "At first, I
didn't know what was happening," she said later. "Then I saw the
banner hanging from the ceiling." It stated, Congratulations Ms.
Anderson.
PAWS
will present Ms. Anderson with the 2011 Outstanding Educator of
the Year Award during a Dinner-Dance Gala at the Venetian Yacht
Club in Babylon Village on April 29th. The Gala will begin at 6
p.m. and dinner will be served at 7:30 p.m. All monies raised
that night through the sale of tickets, journal ads, and raffles
will be used by PAWS to grant school district "wishes." PAWS
(Partners Advancing West Islip Students) is a not-for-profit
organization dedicated to enriching the educational experience.
The 501 (c) (3) association generates resources through
community support. To date, PAWS has donated over $225,000 of
materials to the district, including a $46,000 Recording Studio
for West Islip High School, a $25,000 Yamaha Baby Grand Piano
for the high school Performing Arts Theatre, SMART Boards for
classrooms, and a $5, 500 Book Nook Read Center. Barbara McAteer
is the current president. Tickets are $100 each and tables of 10
can be reserved. To purchase tickets or for more information,
contact Jamie Winkler at wre93@aol.com or 321-8400.
The
unexpected passing of West Islip High School Vocal Music
Director 
A
reading incentive program for third and fourth graders was
introduced earlier this year at the Paul J. Bellew Elementary
School. Established by the New York Knicks Basketball Team, the
Read to Achieve program offered elementary students reading
incentives. Additionally, the classes were entered into the
Knicks Most Spirited Contest for a chance to win tickets to a
Knicks game and meet the players. 
On
the night before their season opener, members of the Girls'
Varsity Softball Team were treated to a complimentary pasta
party at Villa Monaco's Restaurant on Montauk Highway. 
A
few Bayview students in fourth and fifth grade have recently
competed in the Town of Islip Sharpshooter Contest which was
held at West Islip High School over Winter Break. Bayview was
represented by Paul M. and Kaitlin B. in fifth grade and James
B. and Jillian C. in fourth grade. 
Kidsday,
a popular page that is published periodically in Newsday "for
kids, by kids, mostly," sent a representative to Kirdahy
Elementary School at Captree recently after arranging for Justin
DeMaio's students to interview the author of the "Diary of a
Wimpy Kid" book series. The children were also able to meet the
actors from the new "Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules" movie,
which received three stars from Newsday critics and debuted as
the number one movie the weekend of March 25-27. 
"Pink
may seem like an odd choice," says Udall Road Middle School
Assistant Principal Sal Alaimo, "when it comes to getting people
to stand up against bullying. But pink is the color based on a
stand that was taken at a high school in Canada. The freshman
student who was making his first appearance in his new high
school showed up wearing a pink polo shirt and the school
bullies wasted no time in verbally abusing him." What followed
is a story that is being told in every high school across the
nation. Several students who heard about the bullying decided to
take a stand. They went to a department store and bought every
pink shirt they could find. They spread the word via social
networking sites of their intent to get all seniors to wear pink
the next day. They also handed out pink shirts to those who
needed one. The power the bullies had on the school, as well as
the new student, was diminished because other students stood up
against bullying. Joining in the effort are West Islip middle
school students, pictured here.
West
Islip High School student Dayna T. has been honored by Islip
Town officials for outstanding character, generosity, and sense
of community service. Dayna was recently the recipient of the
2010 Humanitarian of the Year Award, presented by the non-profit
organization, A Leg to Stand On. She was praised during a
ceremony on Park Avenue in New York City with over 1,000 people
in attendance. Mead Wells, founder of the organization that
raises awareness and provides service and orthopedic equipment
for amputee children, presented the award to Dayna. The West
Islip 12th grader raised $12,000 and collected orthopedic
equipment for young amputee survivors of the Haitian earthquake
last year. Dayna, a congenital amputee, recognizes the
importance of assisting children who have not been as fortunate
as those in this country in receiving proper medical care and
assistance, says her mom, Donna. 
The
2011 Long Island Youth Summit was held recently at Dowling
College in Oakdale, the purpose of which is to gather the
brightest and most active high school students aware of the
socio-economic, socio-medical, and environmental challenges
affecting the region. The summit provides the opportunity for
these outstanding students to engage in developing informed
solutions to the issues.
Excelling
in their competitive events were West Islip students William H.
and Madeline McEl., Accounting Applications, and John H.,
Marketing Management. Students who placed in the prestigious
"Top Ten" as finalists for their events were Zach C., General
Marketing; Ashley M., Retail Merchandising, and Josh T.,
Accounting Applications. Special congratulations were given to
Lori I., who was awarded third place in Public
Speaking-Prepared. Lori, who is chapter president, has advanced
to the International Career Development Conference being held
April 30 in Orlando, Florida, reports Ms. Saadat. Enthusiastic
after her win, Lori said, "This is the first time in four years
that I have taken home the gold. I have worked very hard for
this; it is so rewarding to win."
Ride
for Life, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation founded in 1998
by ALS (commonly known as Lou Gehrig's Disease) patients. Each
year, ALS members ride their electric wheelchairs down highways
and byways to raise funds for a cure and to create awareness.
Over the last seven years, ALS participants have ridden their
wheelchairs from Yankee Stadium to Washington D.C. and from
Montauk Point to Manhattan, helping to raise over $1.5 million.
Recently, and for the third consecutive year, Ride for Life
co-founder Chris Pendergast visited the Oquenock Elementary
School on his way to New York City. Students and staff lined the
school bus circle to cheer on Mr. Pendergast and fellow ALS
survivors.
West
Islip School District is one of fewer than 400 districts in the
nation to be honored by the College Board with a place on its AP
(Advanced Placement) Achievement List for opening AP classroom
doors to a significantly broader pool of students, while
maintaining or improving the percentage of students earning
scores of 3 or higher. From 2008 to 2010, West Islip has
increased the number of students participating in AP programs
from 202 to 225 while improving the percentage of students
earning AP scores of 3 or higher. "Three" is the score typically
needed to earn college credit, from 80 percent in 2008 to 83
percentage in 2010.
Each
year the PTA Reflections Program challenges students to create
art inspired by a specific theme. For the 2010-2011 school year,
that theme was "Together we can..." The children participate by
submitting entries to their local PTA in categories that include
dance choreography, film production, literature, musical
composition, photography, and visual arts. The national PTA
believes that when children express themselves through pictures,
music, and other art forms, they grow intellectually and
socially; they learn to analyze their thoughts, feelings and
ideas.
West Islip winter track student-athletes were recognized
recently during a ceremony at the Hyatt Regency, receiving
Academic and Athletic All-County awards.
All
faculty, students, and staff are encouraged to wear a t-shirt or
sweatshirt with a college logo on College Awareness Day, April 7. This event helps to promote
awareness of college opportunities and stimulates discussion of
post-secondary planning. The College Awareness Day is also being
held in conjunction with our 
Every
year, fifth grade art students at Westbrook Elementary School
select an African American person, who has served as an
inspiration to others, to research and paint in recognition of
Black History Month. Using a book created by art teacher Jill
Culver, the youngsters preview choices of interesting people.
The children follow a step by step lesson on the placement of
features on a full face portrait and using acrylic paint,
markers and colored pencils, make the portraits come to life.
Ms. Culver reports that when the paintings are finished, each
child display his or her work and explains to classmates the
inspiration behind their choice. 
The
St. Baldrick's Foundation is a charity committed to funding the
most promising research to find cures for childhood cancers and
give survivors long and healthy lives This volunteer-driven
organization reports that every dollar is spent wisely and has
it annual report and other legal documents on its website. The
theme this year involves shaving heads, demonstrating
understanding and compassion with children who are being treated
for cancer and in the process lose their hair. 
Congratulations
to Westbrook fifth grader, Erin, for placing third in the Town
of Islip Sharp Shooter contest. Over 40 schools participated in
this years event.
Imagine
the planet free of pollution, pesticides, no global warming, and
more. That's the Disney Planet Challenge for students, with
lessons tailored to national education standards. All subjects
are explored: science (environmental studies), language arts
(reading while researching), writing and editing (grant, letter,
and journal writing), oral language skills (presentations,
conferences), social studies (historical impacts), math
(fundraising, graphs and data analysis), and visual and
performing arts (artwork and informational displays). 
For
Red Ribbon Week at the Paul J. Bellew Elementary School, where
bright red "Drug Free and Proud of It" banners hang, a student
assembly included guest speaker and Board of Education Trustee
Mike Zotto. A retired New York City Police detective, Mr. Zotto
administered the Drug Free for Life Pledge. "We hope that what
you learn here in elementary school will be carried into middle
school," he told the youngsters who had their right hands in the
air ready to take the oath. 
In an
effort to recognize acts of kindness at Bayview
Fourth
grader Theresa R. paid close attention to what her West Islip
teacher was telling her class at the Paul J. Bellew Elementary
School. Janet Renganeschi was speaking about a WCBS-TV News
competition titled "The African American Hero Video-Essay
Contest." After giving it some thought, she selected her subject
- B. Smith - did the research and asked her dad to help with the
video. B. (Barbara) Smith, a pioneer in the lifestyle category
whose talent and expertise span a wide range of specialties,
intrigued Theresa, who pointed out in her video that the model,
restaurateur, author of three books, and TV host was the first
African American woman to appear on the cover of Mademoiselle
Magazine. Ms. Smith's nationally syndicated cable lifestyle
television show, "B. Smith with Style," is viewed in over 90
percent of the U.S. and in 40 countries.
Jump
Rope for Heart is an annual event that raises money for the
American Heart Association. In return, students learn about the
importance of the heart - how it works and how to care for it.
Additionally, it teaches youngsters that it feels good to make a
difference in other people's lives. Funds raised support heart
research and education initiatives.
Yes
it was a gorilla in the tree waving to Bellew Elementary School
students. Principal Dan Hunter had promised his students that if
they read the requested number of books during the Parents as
Reading Partners (PARP) program this year, he would have a
surprise for them. That principal's challenge certainly did
surprise the youngsters, as well as parents, bus drivers,
teachers, and support staff. One child waved back saying "Hi Mr.
Hunter," knowing that only he would climb a tree and eat a
banana to reinforce the importance of reading - the foundation
of all learning.
Oquenock
Elementary School's Parents As Reading Partners (PARP) program
this year was titled "Wild About Reading." Students were
challenged to read for at least 15 minutes each night and move
Muscles the Monkey up the school lobby tree. Upon meeting the
challenge, the children asked Principal Dawn Morrison to dress
up as the school district's mascot, the lion, and show that she,
too, is wild about reading. 
Each
year, thousands of schools across the country take part in the
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital fundraiser known as the
Math-a-Thon. The Math-a-Thon is a free, education-based program
for grades kindergarten though 8th grade that helps students
improve their math skills and comprehension while raising money
for research. The program, developed by Scholastic, is designed
to complement existing curriculums while teaching youngsters the
importance of helping others. 
Knicks
Most-Spirited Contest for the chance to win free tickets to
attend Knicks games and to personally meet with players on the
court. Six classes at Bellew have been chosen, reports school
Librarian Christine Maniscalco (pictured). The students will
have designated reading zones set up in their classrooms and in
the Library Media Center. Student reading achievement and goals
may include, but are not limited to:
West
Islip High School seniors Joseph V. (right) and Mark F. won
second place honors recently in the Greater New York Automobile
Dealers Association Regional Competition in Whitestone, NY. Both
young men are attending morning automotive training classes at
the Edward J. Milliken Technical Center in Oakdale while
attending WIHS in the afternoon. 
The
first graders in Westbrook have been learning all about
different types of animals in science. Some of these animals
consist of mammals, insects, birds, and reptiles. On February 1,
2011 we were visited by Erik’s Reptile Edventures. 
The New York Islanders ice hockey team recently visited Kirdahy
Elementary School at Captree, invited by teacher Justin DeMaio
and Principal John Mullins. 
An
unknown author penned, "It's nice to be important, but it's more
important to be nice."