http://www.eischools.org Copyright 2013 Syntax Communications East Islip High School will be the site of an emergency preparedness drill today, held in conjunction with Exchange Ambulance of the Islips and the Suffolk County Police Department. Multiple local and neighboring fire departments and emergency medical services will also participate in the drill. The school and these first responders are collaborating in a proactive way to ensure they are prepared and could respond effectively in the event of an actual emergency situation. The drill will commence at 10 a.m. and run until approximately 2 p.m. No road blockages are expected at the school, which is located at 1 Redmen St. in Islip Terrace, and the East Islip School District cautions community members not to be alarmed. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11370 Sat, 22 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School will be the site of an emergency preparedness drill tomorrow, June 22, held in conjunction with Exchange Ambulance of the Islips and the Suffolk County Police Department. Multiple local and neighboring fire departments and emergency medical services will also participate in the drill. The school and these first responders are collaborating in a proactive way to ensure they are prepared and could respond effectively in the event of an actual emergency situation. The drill will commence at 10 a.m. and run until approximately 2 p.m. No road blockages are expected at the school, which is located at 1 Redmen St. in Islip Terrace, and the East Islip School District cautions community members not to be alarmed. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11369 Fri, 21 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s Foreign Language Honor Society held its 29th annual induction ceremony for new and former members on May 14, packing the school’s cafeteria with proud parents and relatives. A total of 141 outstanding language students were recognized for their fluency in French, Italian, Spanish and American Sign Language, each receiving a certificate of honor and merit for his or her language of study, a pin representing their language’s country (or countries, in the case of Spanish), and a decorative carnation. FLHS President Nicole Corapi led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by greetings from the Society’s adviser, Patricia Childs; an introduction by Joseph Tursi Sr., a well-known Italian author and former chairman of the foreign language department at Stony Brook University; and a welcoming speech from Principal William Brennen, who also serves as the chairman of the school’s foreign language department. This year a candlelighting ceremony was added to the FLHS program, as four students, each representing one of the four languages taught in the East Islip School District, led the recitation of the organization’s oath. The quartet – Jillian Staebler for French, Matthew Carillo for Italian, Danielle LaFemina for Spanish and Danielle Mateichik for ASL – impressed both their teachers and families. “It was a very touching moment, because the students spoke so fluently,” said Childs. A second distinguished guest speaker, Carlo Davoli, the consulate general of Italy in New York City, also addressed the students during the presentation of service awards. Special recognition was given to six students who had studied two languages other than English: Sabrina Adon (Spanish/ASL), Larry Burnham (Italian/Spanish), Cristina Espinosa (Spanish/ASL), Jennifer Landaverde (French/ASL), Staebler (French/ASL) and Samantha Taveras (Spanish/ASL). The accompanying induction party proved complementary to the subject, as 520 appetizers were served pertaining to the different language’s cultures and countries. After closing remarks by adviser Jovina Ricciardi, the students and their guests enjoyed a cultural performance by Brian & Co., including mambo dancing and salsa music. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11498 Tue, 18 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s Lena Sorrentino has signed a National Letter of Intent to bowl for Sacred Heart University this fall. An All-County, All-Long Island and All-State athlete, Sorrentino joined coach Harold Cooley’s East Islip varsity bowling squad in seventh grade, the same year the team won the state championship. Both the school itself, founded in 1963 and located in Fairfield, Conn., and Sacred Heart’s Pioneers bowling program impressed her. “I liked the campus a lot and saw some practices,” said Sorrentino. “The school has a lot of technology to help you improve your bowling game.” The senior isn’t sure what she plans to study yet while at college, but is considering either psychology or business as a potential major. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11509 Tue, 18 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT Three members of East Islip High School’s Technology Club were recognized for their superlative work at the annual Long Island Press High School Journalism and Awards Program ceremony, held at Hofstra University on May 22. This Long Island Press program helps students develop journalistic skills while realizing their capabilities. Senior Jake Hirx won second place for his single story report on the annual Thanksgiving feast presented by family and consumer science teacher Kelly Schwender, junior Abigail Dell’Orto earned honorable mention for her single story report covering the school’s blood drive, and sophomore Frank Giaquinto took home both first- and third-place awards for his single story reports. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11511 Tue, 18 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Athletic Booster Club will hold its 11th annual Redmen Golf Outing on July 25. The event will take place at Timber Point Country Club. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11321 Tue, 18 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT Five East Islip Middle School Student Government officers participated in the Islip Elks 34th annual Youth in Government Day on May 23. At the event, 15 students from local schools came together for an opportunity to learn about the Town of Islip and its government. The students met with Supervisor Tom Croci at 9 a.m., followed by tours of the waste-to-energy facility and fire rescue station at Long Island MacArthur Airport. The festivities concluded with lunch at Tina’s II restaurant in Bay Shore and the presentation of participation certificates. “All of the students were very enthusiastic about their day of learning how the town government makes town residents’ lives better,” said student government adviser Dawn Zeffiro. After the event, the students were asked to participate in an essay contest, writing about what they had learned during Youth in Government Day. East Islip’s Claudia Banville and Jessica Churpita tied as third-place winners and were presented with special certificates and awards at the town’s Flag Day ceremony on June 14. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11481 Mon, 17 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education will hold a special meeting to discuss personnel matters on Monday, June 24 at 10 a.m. in the district office boardroom located at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6848 Sat, 15 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT Please see the attached notice for information on the district's transporation schedule for September 2013 regarding private and parochial schools. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11433 Fri, 14 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education honored outgoing President Ken Cronin at its June 13 monthly business meeting at the district office boardroom in Islip Terrace. Superintendent John J. Finello presented a commemorative plaque to Cronin, who served on East Islip’s school board for six years as a president, vice president and trustee. “We are indebted to his leadership and desire to do good for the community,” said Finello. In his report to the Board, Finello also made several announcements, including the senior prom, to be held June 20 at Villa Lombardi’s in Holbrook; high school graduation, to held rain or shine on June 21; next week’s middle school Backyard Bash and the elementary schools’ moving-up ceremonies; and the upcoming emergency preparedness drill to be held at East Islip High School on June 22. Expressing pride in the latter, he noted, “East Islip is leading the way in preparedness.” Finello was also pleased with the status of the Regents exams. “We are halfway through the Regents at the high school, and there have been no incidents of concern,” he said. “I take my hat off to all the high school administrators and students for the fine job they are doing.” He noted that this was the first year that East Islip was using the district’s new state-approved safe. Following the approval of May’s minutes, Alise Becker-Santa, the district’s Assistant Superintendent for Instruction and Personnel, presented the certified and noncertified personnel reports, which were approved. Susan Kosser, the assistant to the superintendent for student support services; Stephen Restivo, the district’s director of physical education, health and athletics; and East Islip Middle School special education teacher Joseph Esposito were all granted tenure. Becker-Santa introduced Kate O’Callaghan as the district’s director of special education; her hiring was approved. The retirement of Cathy Barbarito, a school teacher aide at Ruth C. Kinney Elementary, was also noted. Assistant Superintendent for Business Carl Fraser presented the treasurer’s and extra classroom activity funds reports, and discussed a variety of topics including health services contracts, nonresident tuition rates, tutoring contracts, special education contracts, the SCOPE Education Services Agreement, bids, appropriation changes, and donations of weight room equipment and $300 for the John F. Kennedy Elementary School moving-up ceremony. In other business, Becker-Santa recommended a Board policy adoption and a revision, which were approved: No. 5422/5422R – Food Allergies (Adoption) and No. 5405 – Student Wellness Policy (Revision). The Board of Education will next convene for a special meeting regarding personnel matters on June 24 at 10 a.m. The Board will hold its next monthly business meeting and annual reorganization meeting on the rescheduled date of Tuesday, July 9. The 7 p.m. meeting will be held in the district office boardroom. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11441 Fri, 14 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT Allison Casey has been named salutatorian of East Islip High School’s Class of 2013, earning her prestigious distinction with a weighted GPA of 106.791. After graduation, Casey will be attending Villanova University in Pennsylvania. Although she hasn’t decided on a major, she listed business, finance or accounting as possibilities. While at East Islip, Casey was president of the National Honor Society as well as a member of the school’s Math Team. The avid artist and vocalist also enjoyed performing in the East Islip High School Honors Choir, where she serving as the leader of the alto section. Being the salutatorian was by far her most treasured highlight, though. “It was a culmination of my entire high school academic career that I had worked so hard for,” the senior explained. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11425 Thu, 13 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT In only her second year competing on the East Islip High School spring track team, Faith Penny proved that the sky is her limit with her All-State performance at the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Track and Field Championships. The June 8 event was held at Faller Field on the campus of Middletown High School in Middletown, N.Y. Out of a field of the best 37 high jumpers from across New York State, Penny finished second overall in the large schools category and second overall for the entire state – the highest finish in high jump in modern East Islip athletic history. According to coach James Marino, the sophomore also excels at 100-meter hurdles, long jump and triple jump. During the rest of the school year, she participates in volleyball in the fall and winter track. Penny will be following up her stunning All-State jumping with a well-deserved trip to the Nationals this summer. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11426 Thu, 13 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT Summer is almost here, and in accordance with the Common Core Learning Standards and East Islip High School’s goal to promote literacy, high school students are required to read at least one book over the summer. Please view the attached informational letter and suggested reading list. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11427 Thu, 13 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School will be the site of an emergency preparedness drill on Saturday, June 22, held in conjunction with Exchange Ambulance of the Islips and the Suffolk County Police Department. Multiple local and neighboring fire departments and emergency medical services will also participate in the drill. The school and these first responders are collaborating in a proactive way to ensure they are prepared and could respond effectively in the event of an actual emergency situation. The drill will commence at 10 a.m. and run until approximately 2 p.m. No road blockages are expected at the school, which is located at 1 Redmen St. in Islip Terrace, and the East Islip School District cautions community members not to be alarmed. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11365 Wed, 12 Jun 2013 12:00:00 GMT Click here to view student success story features from the East Islip School District's assistive technology department. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11378 Wed, 12 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT Displaying the developing instrumental and vocal prowess of East Islip’s music students, the two spring concerts presented by East Islip Middle School proved both entertaining for the audiences and inspiring for the confident young musicians. At the first concert on May 13, the classic French musical “Les Misérables” and its popular 2012 film adaptation were a common thread among the school’s concert choir, concert band and string orchestra. Claude-Michel Schönberg’s “Les Mis” music was played by the band and orchestra in arrangements by Johnnie Vinson and Larry Moore, respectively. The choir performed a medley of tunes from the musical, arranged by Ed Lojeski, while featuring soloists Vinny Altman, Amanda Carey, Jennifer Coreas, Erin Fitzgerald, Jillian Kletchka, Steven Murello, Jenna Norrby, Peter Scavone, Maria Schwartzberg, Meaghan Smith and Matt Waldron. “This year all of the approximately 400 seventh- and eighth-grade music students had the opportunity to study this classic musical by performing ‘Les Mis,’” explained the string orchestra’s director, Judith Fischer. “Each ensemble rehearsed and performed a medley of the music from the show. In particular, I thank the wonderful eighth-graders for all their leadership and hard work for the past three years, and wish them success at the high school.” “It was the first time all three ensembles shared the same literature,” added Patricia Bryan, the director of the choir. “We were so very proud of the middle school students who tackled the difficult music of ‘Les Misérables.’ They worked very hard, and it was a fun learning experience for all.” Accompanied by pianist Elena Blyskal, the middle school’s choir began the first concert with James Papoulis’ “Can You Hear,” led by featured singers Amanda Baranek, Brittney Berke, Kendra Lee Canavan,Paul DeMasi and John Anthony Giordano. They dedicated their performance of the piece to the victims of the numerous tragedies the nation has endured over the course of the last school year. With director Concetta Stevens at the helm, the concert band was up next, impressing listeners with renditions of James Swearingen’s “All Glory Told” (featuring three soloists, flutist Meran Lombardi and trumpeters John Fasano and Evan Mauner), Michael Daugherty’s “Alligator Alley” and Richard Saucedo’s “Antares.” The latter featured soloist LeeAnne Jacobsen on flute. Closing the first night, the string orchestra delved into the first movement of Antonio Vivaldi’s Concerto in G Major, Vladimir Vavilov’s aria “Ave Maria” and the fun “Lady Gaga Hit Mix” medley arranged by Larry Moore. At the second middle school spring concert on May 15, the evening started with a performance by the sixth-grade band, directed by Christopher Robertson. The musicians performed robust versions of Robert W. Smith’s “Ash Lawn Echoes” overture, Swearingen’s “Triumphant Spirit,” Michael Story’s “Tribal War Chant” and Gary Gazlay’s “Fortis.” Directed by Bryan and accompanied by Jeremy Barbaro, the school’s girls chorus began by singing Phil Coulter’s “Come by the Hills” from the “Celtic Thunder” show, featuring soloist Cassandra Manfredi. A version of Justin Bieber’s power ballad “Born to Be Somebody,” penned by Diane Warren, highlighted singers Alexa Benitez and Gabriella Commisso. The girls chorus also performed ttraditional Spanish folk song “El Vito,” Schönberg’s “Bring Him Home” (from “Les Misérables”) and Papoulis’ “Kusimama (Stand Tall)” (sung in both English and Swahili). The sixth-grade orchestra performed next, under the direction of Jacqueline Collins. After opening with ancient Korean folk song “Arirang,” the musicians tackled Edmund J. Siennicki’s “Frog in a Tree,” William Owens’ Titanic-themed “Carpathia” and the finale of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5. Closing both the night and the pair of middle school spring concerts, the sixth-grade chorus dove into “Ticket to Ride,” a medley of Beatles songs. Directed by Lisa Ashkenazy and accompanied by Barbaro, the musicians also performed three pieces inspired by poetry: Steve Kupferschmid’s “A Quiet, Patient Spider” (based on Walt Whitman’s “A Noiseless, Patient Spider”), Mary Lynn Lightfoot’s “Tiger! Tiger!” (from William Blake’s “The Tyger”) and Cynthia Gray’s “Songs from the Shore” (adapted from Amy Lowell’s “Sea Shell” and “The Trout”); the latter featured soloist Rachael Kuhlman. The ensemble closed with another rocker, Bobby Troup’s “Route 66.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11388 Wed, 12 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT The annual FTK Golf Outing will take place this year on June 17 at the Island Hills Golf Club in Sayville. The organization's new website can be viewed here. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10184 Wed, 12 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT For the second year in a row, East Islip High School students and aspiring filmmakers Brendan Bullard and Brian Potter have followed a “Best in Show” victory at the Long Island Media Arts Show with a selection by the Suffolk County Film Commission for the eighth annual Suffolk County First Exposure Film Festival. Their prequel film, “Slap Stick Figures 2,” was screened at the prestigious Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington on May 19 along with the other best new short films from Long Island’s most promising high school filmmakers. Curated by professional filmmakers from the Suffolk County Film Commission, the festival was an hour-long exhibition of the “best of the best” high school short narrative, documentary and animated films pulled from the Long Island Media Arts Show at Five Towns College in Dix Hills. Bullard, Potter and graduate David Tekverk’s first “Slap Stick Figures” won at the 2012 Long Island Media Arts Show and was shown at last year’s First Exposure Film Festival. “Brian and Brendon’s tireless efforts in the TV studio really paid off,” said East Islip technology teacher James Connell. “They are both extremely talented at their craft and I’m truly going to miss them next year.” "Slap Stick Figures 2" can be viewed here. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11366 Tue, 11 Jun 2013 11:00:00 GMT For information on East Islip High School's June 2013 Regents examinations, please view the attached schedules. Regents review sessions will be held at the high school until June 10. The Regents exams will be held between June 11-20. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11225 Tue, 11 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT Connetquot Elementary School’s cafeteria was transformed into an underwater world of music on May 29 as retiring teacher Eileen Egbert and her students presented “Octopus’s Garden.” Children from kindergarten, first grade and second grade performed for their parents, with Leslie Davis’ second-graders serving as narrators for this sea adventure. “It was a great way for our youngest students to learn about Long Island’s environment,” said Egbert, noting that the singalong concert incorporated literature, science, geology, and fiction and nonfiction books. Undersea artwork, created during music classes, adorned the cafeteria, providing the necessary nautical atmosphere. The young choral students sang a choreographed version of nursery rhyme “A Sailor Went to Sea,” followed by English sea shanty “Going Over the Sea,” a version of “Down by the Bay” (with original verses written by the children themselves) and Guatemalan folk song “Vamos a la Mar.” The performance culminated with a happy rendition of the Beatles’ classic “Octopus’s Garden.” A special “Tea at the Octopus’s Garden” was held afterward, with servings of goldfish crackers and “seaweed punch” (made with sherbet). “Once again, the incredibly talented Mrs. Egbert inspired the children of Connetquot to perform like professional actors, due to her enthusiasm and inspiration,” said Principal Deborah Smith. “Mrs. Egbert’s student-centered philosophy in teaching is evident in the level of comfort the children have when on stage, and her influence has been immeasurable.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11360 Tue, 11 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9617 Tue, 11 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT Rocket science could be more of a reality than a fantasy for the East Islip High School’s ambitious Class of 2013 valedictorian Vincent Sheppard, whose strong work ethic helped him to finish the year with a weighted GPA of 108.317. Sheppard will attend Cornell University this fall, where the self-described “science geek” plans to study mechanical or civil engineering. “I am incredibly interested in science, most notably physics and astronomy,” he explained. “Hopefully I can use my engineering degree to work on designing the next generation of rockets to propel humans into space.” Music is Sheppard’s other main passion, which led to a variety of prestigious posts – including co-president of the school’s band and symphony orchestra section leader – and prominent positions in the jazz band and pit orchestra. Other musical accomplishments included induction in the Tri-M Music Honor Society and being named to this year’s All-County Orchestra and All-County Percussion Ensemble. “The highlights of my school years come from the music department,” recalled the talented percussionist. “From competing in the Music in the Parks concert every May, to endless hours spent in a hole under the stage in pit, the music department has been my life, and everybody involved is absolutely incredible.” Sheppard cited the school’s 2011 spring concert as a particular highlight. “The absolute pinnacle of my music career in the high school was performing John Mackey’s ‘Redline Tango’ at that concert,” he said. While at East Islip, Sheppard wrote for the school newspaper, The Broadcaster, and served as a member of the National Honor Society, the math team and the school’s academic team. With the latter, he represented East Islip High School in MSG Varsity’s “The Challenge” quiz show earlier this year. “I’ve lived in East Islip for most of my life, and despite its faults, over the years I’ve come to appreciate what I was given here,” said Sheppard. “I’ve made memories and friends here that I expect to carry for the rest of my life.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11325 Mon, 10 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT After learning about the history of Mexico's 1862 victory over France, Emily Gerde's Spanish classes celebrated Cinco de Mayo on May 6, the Monday after the traditional Mexican-American holiday. Students received either a mustache or a chili pepper necklace as they entered the school’s professional development center, then enjoyed a variety of foods, from burritos, tostadas and salsa to cookies decorated to look like sombreros. In one class they learned dances such as the cha-cha, salsa and limbo, while another class sang “La Bamba” and played maracas, castanets and other instruments. Students also passed around a sombrero in a Mexican version of the hot potato game, and played ring toss with the sombrero. “One thing is certain,” said Gerde. “The students really enjoyed their cultural experience.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11327 Mon, 10 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT The young musicians of Timber Point Elementary School in East Islip delivered an impressive set of performances at their spring concert on May 16, kicking off with the Timber Point Orchestra. Directed by Jaime DeMaria, accompanied by pianist Rachel Axelrod and led by concertmaster and All-County violinist and USDAN scholarship winner Sophia Bates, the ensemble wowed the audience on Rob Grice’s “Defender of Time,” Stephen Foster’s elegiac “Off to the Races” and “March of the Bowmen” by John Caponegro. Up next was the school’s band, directed by Lynda Maniscalco. After the humorously powerful opener, “Tyrannosaurus Rocks” by John Edmondson, the band musicians were joined by nine members of the school’s chorus – Bates, Alyssa Carey, Alex Cutrone, Thomas Locke, Jenna Maio, Kayleigh Marquart, Emma Mendolia, Noelle Naccarato and Amanda Schulte – for a special rendition of “The Candy Man,” the sweet favorite composed by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley for the film “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.” The band finished with another cinema classic, John Williams’ Indiana Jones theme “The Raiders March,” and Michael Story’s arrangement of “Patriotic Bits & Pieces.” Concluding the superb night of music was Timber Point’s chorus, under the direction of Diane Starost and accompanied by Axelrod. The singers delighted the crowd with the calypso-flavored “Shake the Papaya Down” by Ruth Dwyer and Judith Waller, Thomas Elias Sugar’s original sea shanty “Home to Oyster Bay” and the stirring “America, of Thee I Sing!” arranged by George Strid to meld “America, the Beautiful" and the Pledge of Allegiance. “The Timber Point musicians put on an exciting and impressive show,” said DeMaria. “We couldn’t be more proud of their hard work and accomplishments. Bravo to both vocalists and instrumentalists!” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11293 Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT Full-time U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Patrick Williamson, who serves in the Air Force’s 106th Rescue Wing in Westhampton Beach, spent May 9 visiting with the East Islip community. A 2006 graduate of Patchogue-Medford High School, Staff Sgt. Williamson enlisted in February 2008 and went through boot camp the following month at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. In 2012 he was deployed to Camp Bastion in Afghanistan to support the mission of personnel recovery and combat search and rescue, where he was a beneficiary of East Islip’s donation programs for overseas troops. At the 106th Rescue Wing, an Air National Guard Rescue Unit, he works as a material management specialist. Williamson is also a volunteer firefighter at the North Patchogue Fire Department. During the morning of May 9, the staff sergeant made presentations to various classrooms at East Islip Middle School, telling students about life in the military and Air Force and describing conditions in Afghanistan. “He came to East Islip as his way of giving thanks to the folks who sent him over 70 care packages,” said Rena Costello, a family and consumer science teacher at the school who has spearheaded the district’s support for deployed military. After visiting the middle school, Williamson joined Costello and outgoing Board of Education President Ken Cronin for an Islip Rotary Club meeting at the Irish Coffee Pub in East Islip, where Williamson spoke to Rotary members, led the attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance and received thanks for his service to his country. The Islip Rotary has been a longtime funding contributor for East Islip’s military support programs. Williamson’s day ended at East Islip High School with a surprise visit to the classes that had contributed to his support. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11295 Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT Ten journalism students from East Islip High School were recognized on May 22 at the annual Long Island Press High School Journalism and Awards Program, held at Hofstra University. This Long Island Press program helps students develop journalistic skills while realizing their capabilities. The winners are all members of the staff of the school’s newspaper The Broadcaster. Their accomplishments included a first-place award for Nicole Caico in the Cartooning category; second-place awards for Rachel Baio (one award in Arts Review and a second in the School Feature category), Kyle Ehlich (Technology Non-Daily Reporting) and Peter Zepf (National Opinion); and third-place awards for Dan Lombardi (National Sports Opinion) and Jen Omland (Layout/Special Section). Three students were also recognized with honorable mention status: Samantha Baer (Local Feature), Sarah Schreiner (General Opinion) and Dorothy Tomasini (Social Commentary). http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11272 Thu, 06 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students in Emily Gerde’s seventh-grade Italian and Spanish classes at East Islip Middle School walked down a “red carpet” in the decorated Professional Development Center on May 8. The fashion show was part of the classes’ clothing unit, in which students worked in pairs for two class periods answering questions in the target language. Their assignment was to determine the exact outfits and accessories they would be wearing for the fashion show. Included in each description was the color, where the clothing was originally purchased, the season it would be worn and the approximate cost. The stylish seventh-graders took turns modeling their outfits and speaking at the podium describing their partner’s garments. “It was a great way to tie in some math skills, the store names, the clothing and the colors,” explained Gerde. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11246 Wed, 05 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School student Nicole Caico, acclaimed for her cartoons and photography, was recently accepted to the Robert W. Greene Summer Institute for High School Journalists at Stony Brook University. The junior will hone her skills at news reporting, writing and editing during the weeklong residential summer workshop while working in the School of Journalism’s multimedia newsroom and absorbing classes covering everything from broadcasting and website construction to blogging and photojournalism. She is considering the latter as a potential future career. Caico is one of only 18 students on Long Island accepted to this prestigious program, which takes place in July. According to Joan Dlouhy, the adviser to the school newspaper, Caico is only the fourth student in East Islip history to attend the Green Summer Institute. The program is named for the late Robert W. Greene, a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter and editor whose dream was to start a “boot camp” for high school journalists at Stony Brook University. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11216 Tue, 04 Jun 2013 11:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for June 3, 2013: First-graders Louis Cicale, Abby Lennon and Eileen Paie of John F. Kennedy Elementary Kindergartners from the classes of Donna Beal, Cheryl Bennett, Michele Brodtman and Renee Nelson of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11211 Tue, 04 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT Continuing the East Islip School District’s 2013 spring concert series, the student-musicians of John F. Kennedy Elementary School in East Islip delivered a night of stellar performances at the school’s May 8 concert. “The JFK community was treated to a wonderful evening of music and song,” said Principal Aileen O’Rourke. “It is amazing to watch fourth- and fifth-graders perform with such grace.” A special ceremony preceded the musical portion of the concert, honoring two longtime JFK teachers. Fourth-grade teacher Robert Machida, who recently marked his 45th year at the school, and fifth-grade teacher Anne Conte will both retire at the end of the year, and O’Rourke and other school staff members paid tribute to their remarkable careers. The concert kicked off with the school’s orchestra program, directed by Angela Fetcho. Accompanied by pianist Jaime DeMaria, the young string players launched into traditional piece “Cripple Creek,” followed by Stephen Foster’s “Off to the Races” and Rob Grice’s “Dragon Slayer.” “I am extremely proud of my JFK orchestra musicians,” said Fetcho. “I congratulate them and all of the students on a beautiful spring concert.” Fetcho reserved special thanks for the work on “Dragon Slayer” of guest percussionists Kaylee Matos and John Seybert. “Their precise percussion playing really added a ton of energy to this powerful piece,” said Fetcho. JFK’s chorus was up next, under the direction of conductor James Santoro and featuring small group singers Fiona Ashe, Kayla Cappe, Madison Latronica and Kaitlyn Rice. After two Teresa Jennings adaptations, “Yankee Doodle’s Pony” and “I Can’t Stand Still Under These Raindrops,” the chorus tackled Mentor Williams’ “Drift Away” before concluding with an enthusiastic run through Neil Diamond’s classic sing-along “Sweet Caroline.” “The JFK chorus students had a wonderful time singing, moving and performing at the spring concert,” said Santoro. “The audience also had a great time singing along to a couple of their favorite songs. My thanks to the parents and children for a great year.” Directed by Ronald Fox, the school’s band ended the concert with four rousing numbers: Robert W. Smith’s “Apollo Fanfare”; “The Raiders March” by John Williams, reflecting its origin as the Indiana Jones theme; Adele Adkins and Paul Epworth’s “Rolling in the Deep”; and the Michael Story arrangement of “Patriotic Bits & Pieces.” “The spring concert was a huge success,” said O’Rourke. “All of the students’ hard work truly paid off.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11192 Mon, 03 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students from East Islip High School’s International Business Globalization Career Academy participated in the Virtual Enterprises International competition at Farmingdale State College on Feb. 1. East Islip’s team – led by CEO Zach Purdy and CFO Casey Stengel, and also including Anna Cinquemani, Corey Massina, Jen Omland, Arthur Rudel, Mary Simonetti and Anthony Sposato – finished in the top 30 percent out of 20 different Long Island schools presenting virtual business plans. Thanks to support from the Suffolk Bus Company, the Career Academy students were also able to attend the Virtual Enterprises International annual trade show on April 11, held at the 69th Regiment Armory in New York City. “The generosity of John Corrado, the president of Suffolk Bus Company, and Thomas Smith, the director of educational buses, provided us with the necessary transportation so that our students were able to attend this trade show,” explained Career Academy director Israel Malinowitzer. East Islip’s StyleXpress virtual company, founded in October 2012, was represented with a booth at the trade show, and the students worked the entire day promoting their products to the 150 other virtual businesses that were in attendance. “This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to meet the other school-run VEI companies and to create a networking business connection,” said Malinowitzer. “Our students met many other students and were able to sit down and discuss the differences and similarities between the schools that were there that day. The Career Academy students were very pleased with their sales results and we look forward to being at next year's trade show.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11198 Mon, 03 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School's Class of 1963, currently planning its 50th reunion, has prepared a letter,, "Golden Nuggets of Advice," for the school's Class of 2013. To read these messages from yesterday's alumni to today's graduates, click on the below attachment. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11133 Wed, 29 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School student Michelle Zimms won Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy/Drama at the Islip Art Council’s annual Teeny Awards, held on May 16 at the CM Performing Arts Center in Oakdale. The 11th-grader portrayed Alice Sycamore in last December’s Drama Club production of the Kaufman and Hart comedy “You Can't Take It with You.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11151 Wed, 29 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for May 27, 2013: Fourth-graders Olivia Pena and Marie Tohill of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Third-graders Isabelle Irizarry-McAdam and Dominic Senft of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11117 Tue, 28 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT After years of coordination, the National Science Center’s Mobile Discovery Center van came to Connetquot Elementary School and East Islip Middle School for a series of special interactive science demonstrations. The Mobile Discovery Center, sponsored by a partnership between the National Science Center and the U.S. Army, is housed in an 18-wheeler van and staffed by Army military and Department of Army civilian personnel. Fourth- and fifth-grade students at Connetquot were treated to a 50-minute presentation about electricity and magnetism which included a Van de Graaff generator, Tesla coil and plasma ball. “Both students and teachers were intrigued and delighted by this amazing presentation,” said teacher Leslie Davis, who helped facilitate the long campaign to enable the visit for Connetquot. "It was designed to show that studying science and math is fun as well as essential to the students’ future." After its stay at Connetquot, the MDC van moved on to East Islip Middle School for tours by the school’s eighth-graders, organized by middle school teacher Darcie Schlott. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11118 Tue, 28 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The EJ Autism Foundation recently provided teacher Jennifer Beebe with a MimioTeach interactive whiteboard system for use in her and Dennis Clancy’s third-grade classroom at Ruth C. Kinney Elementary School. This donation was one of six grants from EJ Autism to district teachers, part of the organization’s continuing efforts to support East Islip’s schools and special needs programs across Long Island that work with children diagnosed with autism. The MimioTeach turns any dry erase board into an interactive whiteboard. With the use of this system, Beebe and Clancy’s lessons have been enhanced by greater interactivity. “It keeps students focused and interested,” said Beebe. “They are excited to use and learn about the new technology.” Since its installation, students have used the MimioTeach for a wide variety of content-related activities. “With MimioTeach, we can model and annotate lessons so that all students can see and have an equal opportunity to participate,” explained Beebe. “Our students also love to work collaboratively by practicing the skills they have already learned by playing interactive games.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11083 Mon, 27 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District’s 2013 spring concert kicked off on May 6 with a sterling night of music from the young student-musicians of Connetquot Elementary School in Islip Terrace. “The Connetquot concert was once again a huge success,” said Principal Deborah Smith. “The musical talents of the gifted students in the band, orchestra and chorus continued to amaze the audience, and their hard work was evident in the excellent execution of their performances.” This was also a very special evening as it marked longtime music teacher Eileen Egbert’s final concert at East Islip. “Her passion, creativity and enthusiasm will be remembered,” said Smith. “She has left a tremendous legacy and will certainly be missed.” Egbert and her chorus kicked off the concert with a vibrant set of vocal performances, beginning with Jim Papoulis’s colorful “Oye,” which featured All-County soloists Gia Rae Gremaux and Marisa Rifici. Up next were traditional calypso number “Shake the Papaya Down,” Aaron Copland’s “Younger Generation” and James Leisy’s “The Cat Came Back.” The Connetquot Chorus will next sing on June 12, opening a Long Island Ducks baseball game with the national anthem for the 15th straight year. In the interim before the orchestra came onstage, Smith delivered a speech praising the beloved Egbert, whom she called, “a very important person who has devoted so much of her energy and talents to East Islip and, therefore, has enhanced our lives, because of her gifts.” Quoting poet Maya Angelou’s line, “Success is liking yourself, liking what you do and liking how you do it,” Smith added, “To know our famous music teacher is to recognize a true star who epitomizes the term ‘success.’ The commitment and dedication which she has demonstrated over several decades in our district has touched many a heart. We will always be grateful for the instruction you have given to countless students and, most importantly, for your friendship that will be cherished and remembered forever.” Directed by Jaime DeMaria and led by concertmaster and All-County violinist Justine Rizzo, Connetquot’s orchestra plunged into the sonorous “Defender of Time” by Rob Grice, followed by Stephen Foster’s “Off to the Races” and John Caponegro’s “March of the Bowmen.” The evening concluded with a performance by the school’s advanced band, directed by Ronald Fox. After a rousing version of Robert W. Smith’s “Apollo Fanfare,” the band launched into the familiar strains of the Indiana Jones theme, “The Raiders March” by John Williams. They finished with Adele Adkins and Paul Epworth’s “Rolling in the Deep” and the entertaining “Patriotic Bits & Pieces,” arranged by Michael Story. “Congratulations to all Connetquot musicians on a job well done,” said DeMaria. “We are all very proud of their musical accomplishments this year.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11082 Sun, 26 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District wishes to thank the community for its support of the 2013-14 school district budget. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11073 Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT “It was a great season!” said Judith Fischer, the East Islip girls varsity golf coach. The team’s impressive 2013 season is finally over, and the Redmen ended it with a 10-4 record and their sixth straight invitation to the Suffolk County tournament at Middle Island Country Club. For the first time ever, East Islip’s team qualified for the competition’s second day, and three EI girls finished in the county’s top 30. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11079 Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School sophomore Frank Giaquinto was awarded first place in the video category at the annual Long Island Press High School Journalism and Awards Program. At an awards ceremony held at Hofstra University on May 22, Giaquinto was honored for his work in producing a film showcasing the East Islip High School SADD club’s Grim Reaper Day. The Long Island Press High School Journalism and Awards Program seeks to help students develop their journalistic skills while realizing their journalistic capabilities. The program provides resources for young minds eager to pursue a career in journalism, and instills pride, confidence and a sense of mission among participants in the hopes of molding potential journalists and artists into future community leaders. East Islip technology teacher Harold Kench was proud of Giaquinto’s success, but not necessarily surprised. “Frank is an active member of the East Islip High School Technology Club and has many student productions to his credit,” explained Kench. “Whenever I need an event covered, Frank is the first to volunteer his time, and he always produces top-notch material. He did a great job!” Click here for a look at Giaquinto’s winning work. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11081 Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Cleaning and recycling aren’t just family chores for John Perniciaro, but means to many worthy ends. The seventh-grader at East Islip Middle School presented an impressive environmental volunteerism project to the school in late April, tied to the science curriculum. For the first part of his project, Perniciaro worked with his Trinity Youth Ministry and the Keep Islip Clean organization on a monthly cleanup of Nassau Avenue in Islip. He also personally “adopted” the East Islip Fire Department parking lot, keeping the grounds clean from October 2012 through April 2013. The next element of his volunteer work involved recycling for a cause. “The first thing I did was make a recycling center on my back porch,” explained Perniciaro. “I took three large green plastic bags, put them together, and labeled them for metal cans, plastic bottles and glass bottles.” He also recycled a pizza box for a sign saying “John’s Recycling Center,” and made containers to collect bottle caps, which he later used to decorate a poster. Saving not only recyclables from his home, but also those donated by helpful friends and neighbors, he sorted the cans and bottles in his recycling center. When the bags became full, Perniciaro recycled them, for a total of 2,246 cans and bottles in over six months of work. Devising his own slogan, “Help save our pets one can or bottle at a time,” he donated the $112.30 he earned through recycling to the Suffolk County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. “I chose the SPCA because I care for the well-being of all animals,” he said, noting his extensive research on the subject before deciding on a recipient. “My project helped the environment by keeping our streets clean,” said Perniciaro, who hopes to inspire others to recycle for a worthy cause. “It also helps to keep reusable material out of the waste stream so it can be recycled and used to make new products.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11057 Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School student Jamie Linz was named the Overall Top Winner of the 2013 Long Island Youth Summit at Dowling College on March 15, earning the senior a $5,000 scholarship, but the benefits of the experience extended far beyond her academic prize. At the half-day Summit, a public-private partnership between Dowling College, the North Shore-LIJ Health System, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Vision Long Island and participating high school districts on Long Island, students from 21 school districts in both Suffolk and Nassau counties submitted original research projects to the Summit Winner Selection Committee. “I not only had a great time exploring the many solutions to problems on Long Island, but I also learned a lot from the other students and realized that there are many problems I can help solve,” said Linz. “We were able to bounce our ideas off each other and come up with even better solutions that hopefully can be implemented in the future.” Linz’s prize-winning essay addressed the topic of poverty and health. “Before researching the topic, I was not aware of the poverty within my neighborhood and never realized how large a problem it is,” she said. “It was eye-opening.” Linz, a graduate of John F. Kennedy Elementary School, participated in tennis and golf while at the middle school and high school. She was also a member of the National Honor Society and East Islip’s Medical and Health Technology Career Academy. “I loved the Career Academy,” she said. “I learned so much from being part of it.” She will attend Utica College this fall, and plans to study physical therapy. “From what I learned at the Youth Summit, I now feel empowered to help the less fortunate in my future career,” she said. “This was a learning experience that I will never forget.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11060 Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Third-graders in Jennifer Beebe and Dennis Clancy's class at Ruth C. Kinney Elementary have been studying the principle of area during this school year. After initial instruction in the classroom, the students took their knowledge outside. Using a measuring wheel to ascertain the length and width of the lacrosse field adjacent to RCK, the students concluded that the area of the field measured 59,512 square feet. “They also compared this overall measurement to one square foot to get a sense of just how large the space was,” said Beebe. “It was an exciting outdoor learning experience for the children.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11031 Wed, 22 May 2013 14:00:00 GMT The end of the year is approaching at East Islip Middle School. Students and parents can read Principal Bernard's May 2013 letter here. Information on final exams and the New York State Assessment in Science and the Earth Science Lab Practical can also be viewed in the below attachments. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11029 Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip varsity baseball team advanced another round on May 20 with a 4-1 home victory over fifth-seeded Deer Park, but were eliminated from the playoffs two days later. Paul Dondero went two-for-three against Deer Park, scoring two runs, while star pitcher Mike Demarest pitched a five-hitter complete game, striking out four Deer Park batters and giving up only one earned run and one walk. The top seed in the Large Schools bracket in Suffolk County’s Class AA playoffs, East Islip began the postseason with a 5-4 loss at home to Half Hollow Hills West on May 15. They rebounded two days later to vanquish Half Hollow Hills, 9-2. On May 22, the Redmen stumbled against visiting Longwood, losing 6-4 in a losers bracket elimination game. Photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=11030 Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for May 20, 2013: Fifth-graders Nick Baldino, Emily Iadanza and Edward Lemus of Connetquot Elementary Second-graders Sarah Birner and Sebastian Higgins of John F. Kennedy Elementary Kindergartner Logan Yuska and second-grader Reese Clark of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Fourth-graders Jillian Bradley and Matthew Shields of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10959 Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District 2013-14 budget passed on May 21, with a total of 4,500 ballots cast. Shortly after 9:30 p.m., District Clerk Marie Rogers read the results to the assembled community members and district staff. The 2,302 yes votes outweighed the 2,198 negative ballots. Rogers noted that the new voting process in a single location at the Early Childhood Center had gone very smoothly, In the race for the open trustee position on East Islip's five-person Board of Education, voters selected Steven Behan for the job. Behan garnered 2,242 votes to Jessica Carney's 1,853. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10993 Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The schedule for playoff games on May 22 is as follows: BASEBALL Longwood at East Islip - May 22 at 4 p.m. GIRLS LACROSSE East Islip at Bay Shore -May 22 at 4 p.m. (Section XI charging $6 admission) SOFTBALL East Islip lost to Longwood on May 20 and is out of the playoffs http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10925 Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education will hold an executive session for negotiations on Wednesday, May 22 at 4 p.m. in the district office boardroom located at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8824 Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT One year ago today, Connetquot Elementary School Principal Deborah Smith added the new title of “Ed.D.” to her resume after obtaining her doctorate in education from Hofstra University. Her dissertation, titled “Boys and Literacy: Utilizing Action Research to Promote Engagement” (viewable as an attachment below), examined the reading gender gap. “I looked at data and noticed such a discrepancy between boys and girls,” she said of her initial analysis of the issue back in 2005, when she was the director of humanities at East Islip Middle School. “The performance gap is widening and it’s a huge concern. This isn’t just happening here in New York State but internationally as well.” Her qualitative study began in the spring of 2010. She talked to male and female students and came to several realizations. One was that in terms of literacy, female students had different lives outside of schools than their male counterparts. She also noted that the school environment was dominated by female teachers. “As a teacher, I struggled to find things boys wanted to read,” she noted. Smith, who has served as Connetquot’s principal since the 2010-11 school year, was a teacher at East Islip Middle School in 1997-1998 and John F. Kennedy Elementary School from 1998-2004 before serving as an assistant principal at the high school and middle school. She proposed her dissertation idea on April 14, 2011, and after undergoing multiple revisions, it was approved by Hofstra’s stringent five-person committee. Smith’s graduation ceremony and “hooding” took place May 20, 2012. She felt honored, noting, “Hofstra is very steeped in tradition.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10935 Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Ample parking for voters will be available tomorrow for the East Islip School District’s 2013 budget vote and board elections, which takes place from 6 a.m.-9 p.m. in the Early Childhood Center at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, in the first-floor cafeteria and gymnasium. A total of 200 parking spaces will be available for the convenience of all voters, in both the front of the building and in the rear parking lot between the ECC and the middle school. This is the highest amount of spaces allocated for a budget vote in East Islip to date. Based on voting history, this number of spaces should avoid any logistical issues that might hamper the vote, and would ensure traffic safety for the community. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10936 Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District 2013 budget vote and board elections will take place tomorrow, Tuesday, May 21. Voting will take place from 6 a.m.-9 p.m. in the Early Childhood Center at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, in the first-floor cafeteria and gymnasium. Voters with last names beginning with letters A-J will vote in the cafeteria, and voters with last names beginning with letters K-Z will vote in the gymnasium. There will be four voting machines on each side. Parking will be available in the front of the building and in the rear parking lot between the ECC and the middle school. Additionally, eight temporary parking spots in front of the ECC will be made available tomorrow, as well as five handicapped spots. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10679 Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip varsity softball coach Jason McGowan will be offering a summer softball camp for grades 2-8. The camp, sponsored by the East Islip Athletic Booster Club, will be held June 24-28 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the East Islip varsity softball field. The fee is $125. Please view the below attachment for further information. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10923 Sun, 19 May 2013 19:00:00 GMT Freshman and sophomore athletes on East Islip’s varsity track and field team participated in the Frosh/Soph Championship meet at Longwood High School in Middle Island on May 15, earning five medals in a strong showing by EI’s next generation of track stars. Zachary Acocella came in third in both the sophomore triple jump and 400-meter run. Rob Sarno came in fifth place in the freshman high jump, Will Reed claimed third place in the freshman mile, while Tom Koppleman earned fourth place in the high hurdles. Photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10934 Sun, 19 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District 2013 budget vote and board elections will take place today from 6 a.m.-9 p.m. in the Early Childhood Center at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, in the first-floor cafeteria and gymnasium. Voters with last names beginning with letters A-J will vote in the cafeteria, and voters with last names beginning with letters K-Z will vote in the gymnasium. There will be four voting machines on each side. Parking is available in the front of the building and in the rear parking lot between the ECC and the middle school. Additionally, eight temporary parking spots in front of the ECC have been made available today, as well as five handicapped spots. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10680 Sun, 19 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The annual budget vote and board election on May 21 will be held this year at one polling place, the Early Childhood Center at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, in the first-floor cafeteria and gymnasium. Voting will take place from 6 a.m.-9 p.m. Voters with last names beginning with letters A-J will vote in the cafeteria, and voters with last names beginning with letters K-Z will vote in the gymnasium. There will be four voting machines on each side. Parking will be available in the front of the building and in the rear parking lot between the ECC and the middle school. Additionally, eight temporary parking spots in front of the ECC will be made available that day as well as five handicapped spots. In prior years, the voting had been broken down into four separate voting districts, one at each of Connetquot, John F. Kennedy, Ruth C. Kinney and Timber Point elementary schools. While this worked in the past, it would now present difficulties due to our new security procedures. In February 2013, new audio/video surveillance systems were installed at the main entrance doors of each of our elementary schools. All visitors are now required to display identification prior to entering the buildings, and only after a visitor has been identified and cleared are the doors unlocked and the visitor permitted to enter and sign in at the front desk. Voting at the elementary schools would be very difficult. Community members would be required to follow the identification procedure, possibly leading to long lines. This would be necessary since the safety of our students, faculty and staff must remain paramount. Voting at one central location, the Early Childhood Center, where no students are currently present, would avoid the security issue entirely and streamline the voting process. The change in voting location also produces a cost savings in these fiscally challenging times. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10394 Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT See below attachment for directions to the East Islip School District Early Childhood Center. The district's 2013 budget vote and board election will be held at the ECC on May 21. Voting will take place from 6 a.m.-9 p.m. in the ECC's first-floor cafeteria and gymnasium. Voters with last names beginning with letters A-J will vote in the cafeteria, and voters with last names beginning with letters K-Z will vote in the gymnasium. There will be four voting machines on each side. Parking will be available in the front of the building and in the rear parking lot between the ECC and the middle school. Additionally, eight temporary parking spots in front of the ECC will be made available tomorrow, as well as five handicapped spots. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10890 Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students in East Islip High School art teacher Donna Nelson's Studio in Art classes recently examined the idea of movement as a principle of design, employing oil pastels to create abstract works through the use of line, shapes and colors. Visual movement is used by artists to direct the viewer’s eye through an artwork, often to bring the viewer to the focal area of the piece so that the viewer can easily “read” the work and understand what the artist was trying to communicate. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10891 Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Traci Byrnes and Brandon Keaney, both students at John F. Kennedy Elementary School in East Islip, received Physical Education Student Leadership awards from the Suffolk Zone of the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance on May 1. The annual ceremony, held this year at Longwood High School, recognizes outstanding elementary and middle school students who lead by example and strive to achieve their best. Guest speaker and East Islip alumnus Rohan Murphy advised the students to always reach for their goals and do the very best that they can. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10863 Thu, 16 May 2013 11:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School Drama Club presented its final show for this year, “Dr. Seuss Goes Green,” on April 27 in the school’s Forum. An ecological musical for kids written and directed by Drama Club adviser Susan Jeffares, the play proved to be another sellout for the club. Senior Courtney Kenyon served as the musical’s assistant director and choreographer, while sophomore Joseph Janover was the musical director. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10864 Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Voters are encouraged to read the attached FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) regarding the East Islip budget vote on May 21. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10837 Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School officially unveiled a new 3.5-kilowatt photovoltaic solar system last July, a grid-connected system installed in the school’s courtyard over a period of two weeks. Over the course of the 2012-13 school year, the system has served to educate students on how solar power is generated and its benefits in reducing the use of fossil fuel. The solar panels continue to collect the sun’s energy and convert it to DC power, which is then converted to AC power by micro-inverters and exported back to the grid. “The interactive PV system includes a data acquisition package that allows students, teachers and community members to access real-time system performance over the Internet,” said Solar Dad and Sons President Ken Sanger. “This live working resource is designed to promote student and community understanding of renewable energy.” Sanger’s company installed the system with the help of partners such as Direct Grid Technologies, Energy Inc., Eragy, Home Performance Technologies, Solartech Renewables, Tough Trac and DiGiovanna Bros. Landscaping, all of whom donated their hardware or services to enable the photovoltaic solar system’s installation. Among those attending the unveiling last summer were Suffolk County Legislator Tom Cilmi, Home Performance Technologies President Mark Gunthner and East Islip’s Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo even sent East Islip a congratulatory letter (viewable below) regarding the solar system. Readers may also view a video feature on the installation here. Sustainable Long Island was among the organizations in attendance. “We were delighted to attend East Islip High School's unveiling of the photovoltaic solar system,” said a SLI representative, “and we are thrilled to be partnering with East Islip High School to provide internship opportunities for their students.” “East Islip High School is on a mission to keep students aware of the latest technology education," said Sanger. "At Solar Dad and Sons, we are very keen to support this excellent facility. It is very moving to see and feel how worthwhile it is to educate the students, who are our future. This will inspire them to explore solar technology and create renewable solutions for energy needs in this world.” “It is important that the kids that inherit this world become more conscious about conserving resources through renewable and alternative energy,” said Direct Grid Technologies Director Louis Squeo, whose firm provided the micro-inverters to convert the energy. Sanger attributes much of the impetus behind the system to Israel Malinowitzer, the director of East Islip’s Career Academy program. “This project is an outgrowth of Mr. Malinowitzer’s vision of using technology as a medium for connecting the school system and businesses in the area with the Career Academy at East Islip High School,” said Sanger. “Solar Dad and Sons has a longstanding partnership with Mr. Malinowitzer in which we support the students with new and engaging subjects, and this solar PV system installation accomplishes that goal.” Since the beginning of this school year, the photovoltaic solar system has provided a steady stream of information for students. “I’m proud to report that the system has been performing flawlessly,” said Sanger, who calls it “a gift that keeps on giving.” He added, “This solar PV system is producing energy from the sun for the high school to utilize, but it’s more than that. It is a hands-on experience and an educational tool for the students now and in the future.” Sanger also shared his knowledge of and experience with solar PV at the school’s Earth Day event this April. “I was invited to communicate the growing need for renewable energy and to encourage students to think of questions and spark curiosity regarding solar energy solutions,” he explained. “The students impressed me with their passion and concern for our energy needs now and in the future.” The East Islip photovoltaic system is just the beginning for Sanger. “Our goal is to stimulate interest and confidence in the use of solar photovoltaic systems for a wide variety of applications by creating successful partnerships such as this,” he said. “Next year we are planning to expand this education tool beyond the school walls to the Town of Islip community. This donation provides an impetus for investment and is a demonstration that renewable energy solutions are feasible.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10829 Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip varsity baseball team is now the top seed in Suffolk County, thanks to last Friday’s pair of wins over Copiague. In the first game of the League IV doubleheader on May 10, the Redmen came out ahead by an 8-1 score. Mike Demarest pitched a three-hitter with six strikeouts and no walks. Casey Stengel went 3-for-4, hitting three RBIs, while Nick Osburn went 3-for-4 and hit two runs and two RBIs. East Islip shellacked Copiague 15-1 in the second game, with pitcher Dave Palmer throwing a two-hitter with five strikeouts, allowing only one earned run. Nick Osburn hit two runs and two RBIs, going 2-for-3, and Ken Rotunno hit two runs and three RBIs, going 2-for-5. The doubleheader victories ensured that East Islip was ranked first in the Large Schools bracket in Suffolk County’s Class AA playoffs. The Redmen will face the winner of the May 14 Half Hollow Hills West vs. Connetquot contest, and will play at East Islip on May 15 at 4 p.m. Photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10782 Tue, 14 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT East Islip High School student Abigail Dell'Orto recently won second prize in the Suffolk County Coalition Against Domestic Violence’s 11th annual “Express This!” contest. The contest encourages Suffolk County students in grades 6-12 to create their own artistic response to the issues of abuse and bullying. This year’s topic was “What Is Dating Violence?” A SCCADV representative visited the school on May 8 to inform Dell’Orto of her award and present her with a certificate recognizing her essay. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10792 Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for May 13, 2013: Fifth-graders Eliza Channing, Brittany Klub and Brianna Sihpol of Connetquot Elementary Third-grader Destiny Eckhoff of John F. Kennedy Elementary Fifth-graders Alexandra Christiansen, Alexa Graffagnino, Karl-Henry Tranquille and Samantha Winegard of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Kindergartner Joseph Doobinin and first-grader James Velazquez of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10794 Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Chris Pendergast and his Ride for Life fundraiser paid an inspirational visit to East Islip Middle School on May 9. As Pendergast departed from the front of the middle school, heading to his next stop at West Islip High School, the middle school’s students gathered outside to cheer him on and a small band played. The mission of Pendergast’s charity group is to help advance research in finding a cure for ALS, to support patients and their families, and to provide ALS-related information. At Ride for Life’s annual event, ALS patients ride their power wheelchairs on local roads and highways, accompanied by supporters in an effort to raise funds for a cure and create awareness for their disease. According to teacher librarian Valerie Ware, the middle school’s National Junior Honor Society Committee – led by members Samantha Carroll, Julia Fusco, Jackie Ginty andVictoria Goldfader – raised $528 for the Ride for Life cause as part of the NJHS’s efforts to help cure ALS. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10797 Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District 2013 budget vote and board elections will take place next Tuesday, May 21. Voting will take place from 6 a.m.-9 p.m. in the Early Childhood Center at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, in the first-floor cafeteria and gymnasium. Parking will be available in the front of the building and in the rear parking lot between the ECC and the middle school. Additionally, eight temporary parking spots in front of the ECC will be made available that day, as well as five handicapped spots. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10678 Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT With a 10-1 home-field victory over Centereach on May 3, the East Islip varsity baseball team clinched the League IV title for 2013. Nick Osburn blasted a two-RBI double in East Islip’s action-packed 10-run second inning, staking out a 6-0 lead for the Redmen. Mike Demarest pitched a three-hitter, allowing only one run with eight strikeouts and one walk. The team had previously vanquished Centereach by equally dominant scores on both May 1 (17-4) and April 30 (14-3). “Winning the League IV title is an outstanding achievement that the players should be proud of,” said coach Sal Ciampi. “They have put themselves in position to make a run at the county title.” East Islip’s record currently stands at 16-2 in conference play and 18-2 overall as they march into the playoffs. Photos by Scott Demarest http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10559 Mon, 13 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The staff of East Islip High School’s student newspaper, The Broadcaster, has added two more awards to their collection of accolades. In the latest honor for these superlative student journalists, the American Scholastic Press Association has given the Broadcaster a first-place ranking as Best Overall Newspaper in the 2012-2013 Scholastic Newspaper Awards. East Islip seniors Matt Ferremi and Dan Lombardi, the paper’s sports editors, were also honored with the ASPA’s Outstanding Sports Coverage award. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10706 Fri, 10 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Linda J. Rozzi has been announced as the next superintendent of schools for the East Islip School District. Rozzi, currently the assistant superintendent for curriculum, instruction and technology at South Country Central School District in Brookhaven and formerly the school superintendent at Tuckahoe Common School District in Southampton, was introduced as the new superintendent for East Islip at the Board of Education's budget hearing and business meeting on May 9. She is a graduate of Penn State University and Columbia University Teachers College. Her resume can be viewed below. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10712 Fri, 10 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education held its 2013-14 budget hearing and monthly business meeting on May 9 at the district office boardroom in Islip Terrace, announcing Linda J. Rozzi as the next superintendent of schools for the East Islip School District. Rozzi, currently the assistant superintendent for curriculum, instruction and technology at South Country Central School District in Brookhaven and formerly the school superintendent at Tuckahoe Common School District in Southampton, is a graduate of Penn State University and Columbia University Teachers College. Her resume can be viewed below. After his budget presentation (also viewable below), Assistant Superintendent for Business Carl Fraser clarified the reasons for the change in this year’s polling place to a single location at the Early Childhood Center’s first-floor cafeteria and gymnasium, stating that the decision was due to security issues as well as a small cost savings. Fraser also noted that temporary and handicapped parking spots will be made available in front of the ECC on the day of the budget vote. After the 2013-14 budget hearing was concluded and Rozzi’s hiring was announced, current Superintendent John J. Finello made his report to the Board. Finello paid special tribute to the recent Medical Career Day held at East Islip High School on April 30, the product of a strong partnership between the high school’s Medical and Health Technology Career Academy and North Shore-LIJ Southside Hospital to hold the very first annual Medical Career Day at the high school on April 30. The event included featured numerous different interactive exhibits and workshop lectures, and more than 55 Southside Hospital professionals attended. Finello also made the attending community members aware of the district’s spring concert series, which is currently ongoing. Upcoming concerts are scheduled for East Islip Middle School (May 13 and 15), Timber Point Elementary (May 16), RCK Elementary (May 20) and East Islip High School (May 22). Following the approval of April minutes, Alise Becker-Santa, the district’s Assistant Superintendent for Instruction and Personnel, presented the certified and noncertified personnel reports, which were approved. Among the changes were the hiring of Kathleen Carroll as a special education teacher at RCK and Jessica Fleming as a special education teacher at East Islip High School, and the retirement of high school science teacher Gerard Schiraldi after nine years in East Islip. “We wish Gerard good health and happiness in his retirement,” said Becker-Santa. Also approved were resolutions for a medical examination and the appointment of Dr. Michael Howard Shanik as medical examiner, and agreements between the district and the East Islip Association of School Administrators and confidential employees. Fraser presented the treasurer’s and extra classroom activity funds reports, and discussed health services contracts, bids, a donation of $100 in U.S. savings bonds for a fifth-grade scholarship award, and a $1,000 McBride Memorial Scholarship for seniors, among other approved items. He also announced that local first responders would be holding an emergency preparedness drill in the district, tentatively set for June 22. The Board of Education will next convene on May 21 at 9 p.m in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace, to announce the results of that day’s budget vote and board elections. The Board will hold its next monthly business meeting at 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 13 in the district office boardroom. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10715 Fri, 10 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Creative, fashion-forward students at East Islip High School recently participated in the Vans Custom Culture art competition, a national high school shoe customization contest in which schools from across the U.S. compete for a chance to win funding for their art programs. Each registered school including East Islip received four pairs of blank Vans sneakers, ready to be customized in four themes: Art, Music, Action Sports and Local Flavor. “Our students worked very hard at developing their overall New York theme and each pair of shoes explored the individual customization themes,” explained art teacher Heather Toomey. “The students researched about their shoes and went through a long planning process before painting their blank shoes. Each pair is unique and demonstrates the talent of these students, and as a group they came up with some great concepts for this year's contest.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10716 Fri, 10 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education will hold its 2013-14 budget hearing tonight, May 9 at 7 p.m in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. The budget hearing will precede the Board's regular business meeting. This will be the only budget hearing; the hearing originally scheduled for Tuesday, May 14 has been canceled. The East Islip School District budget vote and board elections will take place on Tuesday, May 21. Voting will take place from 6 a.m.-9 p.m. in the Early Childhood Center at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, in the first-floor cafeteria and gymnasium. Parking will be available in the front of the building and in the rear parking lot between the ECC and the middle school. Additionally, eight temporary parking spots in front of the ECC will be made available that day for seniors as well as five handicapped spots. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10580 Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District has taken special steps to facilitate parking for the 2013 budget vote and board elections, which will take place on Tuesday, May 21. Voting this year will take place from 6 a.m.-9 p.m. in the Early Childhood Center at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, in the first-floor cafeteria and gymnasium. Parking will generally be available on May 21 in the front of the building and in the rear parking lot between the ECC and the middle school. Eight temporary parking spots in front of the ECC will be available on the day of the budget vote, as well as five handicapped spots. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10682 Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT In an outstanding long-term display of commitment to a healthy and worthy cause, John F. Kennedy Elementary School fifth-grader and "heart hero" Sonny Pico has raised over $2,500 during the past three years in the Hoops for Heart program, tops for the East Islip school. Hoops for Heart, a national fundraising program sponsored by the American Heart Association and the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, promotes physical activity, heart-healthy living and community service to children, helping to fund needed research to fight heart disease while giving participating children the chance to work on their basketball skills. “Sonny has been a major part of JFK’s fundraising for the American Heart Association,” said his physical education teacher, Keith Gerard. “We are very proud of his efforts along with all of the students at JFK. Way to go, Sonny!” This year's Hoops for Heart event raised a total of $3,600 due to the efforts of the participating third-, fourth0 and fifth-graders. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10656 Wed, 08 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District's slide presentation of the 2013-14 adopted budget is available for viewing on the district website in the Budget section as well as attached below. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10623 Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students in the classrooms of East Islip Middle School family and consumer science teachers Rena Costello and Dani Franzese were given a chance to experience the cuisine of India on April 17. A guest lecturer from Tasty Bite Food Services presented an informative slideshow as well as samples of two of their dishes: Madras lentils and chana masala. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10639 Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Providing a focused display of the school's senior student-artists’ unique talents, the annual East Islip High School Festival of Fine Art was held during the week of April 15. A large crowd of happy students and proud parents, friends and teachers celebrated the creative spirit evoked by the festival at the event’s April 18 evening reception at the high school's library. “The reception is always the highlight and culminating event of our festival,” said East Islip art teacher William Melendez, who is retiring after this school year. “The seniors displayed their amazing work with pride.” “The festival showcased the hard work and artistic talents of the students of East Islip, and I am extremely proud of the students' work,” added art teacher Heather Toomey. “There was a wonderful turnout this year.” “The art show had record attendance,” agreed Stephen Guarino, the district’s director of art and music. “It was the most crowded I’ve ever seen it.” Toomey emphasized the group effort needed to present the festival. “There is also a lot of behind-the-scenes work that goes into set-up and break-down,” she explained. “The entire art department appreciates the custodial staff as well as the library for allowing us to display the student artwork.” She also acknowledged the many years of contributions by Melendez to both the school’s art program and the festival. “It was especially bittersweet to also celebrate Mr. Melendez’s retirement and his last Festival of the Arts at East Islip,” she said. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10640 Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School Medical and Health Technology Career Academy partnered with North Shore-LIJ Southside Hospital to hold the very first annual Medical Career Day at the high school on April 30. The event featured over a dozen different interactive exhibits going on in the high school’s auxiliary gym, including an operating room, a pharmacy, and nursing, nutrition, radiology, respiratory and hazardous materials units. A variety of other informational tables in the school lobbies included material on diabetes counseling, neuroscience, pediatrics and human resources, among other fields of interest to potential medical students. Workshop lectures were held in the auditorium during every period of the school day, educating the students about different health issues. Lecture topics included “Cardiology” by Dr. Jean Cacciabaudo, “Orthopedics” by Dr. Michael Nett, “North Shore-LIJ Feinstein Institute” by Dr. Christine Metz, “Non-Clinical Career Awareness” by Anthony Pellicone, “Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine” by Dr. Michael Delman and “Concussion Education” by Dr. Rosanna Sabini. Continuing the strong relationship with North Shore-LIJ that has been built over the past year since the Medical Academy was formed, more than 55 professional employees of Southside Hospital were in attendance at the event, including Executive Director Donna Moravick and members of the hospital’s community services department such as Vincent Cunningham, Kerri Fontaine, Edward Frasier and Jack Rosenberg. Prominent doctors from North Shore-LIJ spent many hours sitting and talking to the large number of students in attendance, all from grades 8-12. “The event proved to be a huge success,” said Career Academy Director Israel Malinowitzer. He mainly attributed this result to the hard work and dedication provided by Southside representatives Rosenberg and Fontaine, who began working with Malinowitzer last October to put the entire program together, forging a true partnership for the benefit of the students of East Islip. Coinciding with and complementing the medical event was East Islip High School's annual blood drive, hosted by the Science Honor Society with the assistance of the National Honor Society in the school’s auxiliary gym. “On behalf of the Medical Career Academy and the entire district, we would like to thank Southside Hospital and the North Shore-LIJ family for their generous ongoing support,” said Malinowitzer. “We look forward to next year’s second annual Medical Career Day.” Click here for Southside Hospital's video feature on the event. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10685 Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Universal Pre-Kindergarten is a New York State-funded educational program specifically designed for 4-year-olds. Starting in the middle of May 2013, all eligible East Islip students (district residents only) who are registered with the district will receive letters in the mail with a UPK lottery form to be returned to school. The UPK lottery will be held on Thursday, May 30 at 6:30 p.m. in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. Please see the attached UPK lottery advertisement for more information. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8936 Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Pupil Personnel Department will present a special workshop this month for parents of children with autism. Donna Thiele, a representative of the Riverhead-based Institute for Children with Autism and Related Disorders, will be the featured speaker. "How I Spend My Summer Vacation: Structuring the Summertime for Children with Disabilities" takes place on May 15 from 7-9 p.m. in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, and includes light refreshments. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8762 Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for May 6, 2013: Fourth-graders Brett Bonner, Danielle Catanzarite, Kyle Kirshberg and Casidy Stein of John F. Kennedy Elementary First-graders Alyssa Giaccone and Meagan Olson of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Fifth-grader Alexa Sanchez of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10600 Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District's 2013 edition of The Beacon of Hope budget newsletter is available for viewing on the district website (under both the Beacon of Hope Newsletter and Budget sections) as well as attached below. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10612 Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Thirteen students from East Islip High High School’s varsity softball team displayed their leadership and dedication to the community by serving as volunteers at the 2013 Special Olympics Spring Games on April 21. More than 800 athletes participated in track and field and tennis events at the Games, held at Commack High School. The East Islip students partnered up to work with their assigned special athletes, bringing the athletes to events and lunch and escorting them around the Olympic Village. “We volunteered with athletes from a track club based out of Hauppauge called FREE,” said East Islip’s softball coach, Jason McGowan. “This is an annual event for us.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10617 Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education will hold its 2013-14 budget hearing on Thursday, May 9 at 7 p.m in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. The budget hearing will precede the Board's regular business meeting. This will be the only budget hearing; the hearing originally scheduled for Tuesday, May 14 has been canceled. The budget vote and board elections will take place from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, May 21 in the Early Childhood Center. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10579 Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT It was a “sweet” season for the East Islip High School mock trial team, beginning with a three-school scrimmage in Brooklyn (with members of both the Sheepshead Bay and Brooklyn Tech mock trial teams) and a Feb. 6 victory over Half Hollow Hills East in the opening round of the New York State High School Mock Trial Tournament, also known as the “Sweet Sixteen.” East Islip’s defense – lawyers Alexa Dante, Elizabeth Loizides and Brooke Ryan and witnesses Kevin Capobianco, Christina Giordanella and Joe Teknus – prevailed against the Hills East plaintiff team. East Islip next defeated bitter rivals Smithtown on Feb. 13 at the East Islip High School library in the second round of the tournament. Their winning case against Smithtown, “Morgan Martin v. Cattaraugus Programming University,” involved a fictitious plaintiff contending that she was unemployed and in debt after attending Cattaraugus Programming University, a for-profit college. The plaintiff claimed that CPU uses deceptive acts and practices to get students to enroll and predatory lending tactics to get students to borrow high-interest student loans, while providing a worthless education. The defense denied these allegations and claimed that the plaintiff was a lazy student who didn't work hard. “This fact pattern comes right out of today's headlines, with many students around the country claiming they were deceived by for-profit colleges.” The EI defense team against Smithtown included lawyers Melissa Gallardo, Zach Purdy and Bob Rosenthal; witnesses Tim Cerrito, Mustafa Kemal and Kierstin O'Hara; and bailiff Ashley Brett. “Our students really enjoyed that case because they could relate to it,” added Lester. “They have been thinking about college and careers, and issues such as choosing a school and how to handle loans are very much on their minds. It also caused a lot of discussion about what it takes to succeed in college.” The team paid an unsuccessful visit to St. Anthony High School for the third round on Feb. 27, and the controversial loss left East Islip at risk of missing the playoffs. The fourth and final case of the tournament was held at home in the high school’s library on March 6 against Kings Park, as East Islip's plaintiff team fought through adversity to deliver a win. A key plaintiff member for EI, attorney Gallardo, was suddenly unable to compete due to illness, but the team's two seniors stepped up to fill her role. Plaintiff attorney Purdy took over Gallardo’s opening statement while defense attorney Dante rapidly learned her stricken teammate’s direct and cross examinations, and freshman O'Hara adapted quickly to working with a new lawyer. “Zach and Alexa showed excellent leadership and rallied the rest of the team,” said Lester. “The whole team pulled together and delivered the necessary win for EI.” Also participating were attorney Rosenthal, witnesses Cerrito and Kemal, and bailiff Brett. The victory raised the team’s record to 3-1, securing their 11th consecutive playoff spot. During the mock trial playoffs in district court, East Islip ended up losing to Northport High School in the Suffolk County quarterfinals. “The match was extremely close and the judge praised all participants,” Lester said. “While the loss was unexpected and disappointing, the East Islip team’s performance was exceptional and they went out strong.” Six members of the EI mock trial team also traveled to Plainview-Old Bethpage High School for their annual Moot Court Competition on March 20. Two teams of three students each participated in four rounds of mini civil trials. Team 1 featured Capobianco, Cerrito and Rosenthal and Team 2 included Brett, Dante and Ryan. “Both teams did a great job,” said Lester. “The event was a fun learning experience.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10587 Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Racing toward a bright future, East Islip High School senior and undefeated League III cross-country champion Niamh Ashe signed a National Letter of Intent on March 19 to attend Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Conn., where she will be a member of the university’s Bobcats cross-country and track teams. “The coach is nice and the running program at Quinnipiac is amazing,” she said. “They are Division I, and I am really excited to run with such fast girls.” The athletes’ prowess isn’t the only thing Ashe admired about Quinnipiac, which was founded in 1929 and is known for its strong business and health science programs and the famous Quinnipiac University Polling Institute. “It’s gorgeous up there,” said Ashe, who plans to study nursing. “The atmosphere is great and it’s such a pretty school.” Among the highlights of the All-County runner’s season were a fourth-place finish (out of 45 contestants) in the 2-mile race at the New Balance Nationals for winter track, a second-place overall finish in the 3,000-meter race in spring track, and breaking the East Islip school record in the 5,000-meter. Ashe was also generous in her praise for her mentors at East Islip, girls track coach Steve Brown and boys coach Jim Marino. “My coaches were a big help in getting me where I am,” she said. “Niamh is one of the top athletes we have had at East Islip High School and she has been a leader on our track program,” said Marino. “She earned it the old-fashioned way. She has worked hard to accomplish this and we look forward to watching her compete at the Division I collegiate level.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10588 Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT More than 60 people attended the opening reception for the third annual Ruth C. Kinney Elementary art exhibit at the East Islip Public Library on April 18. Parents joined students after school to admire the artwork, which was organized by RCK’s art teacher Dana Belfiore and presented in the library’s second-floor display case. This year’s exhibit featured penguins created by the school’s first-graders and sun stones by RCK fifth-graders. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10589 Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Carrying each class’s environmental banners, John F. Kennedy Elementary School students enjoyed some fresh air and sunshine during the school’s annual Earth Day Walk on May 3. Joining them on the trek down Woodland Drive and back through the playground were JFK Principal Aileen O’Rourke, teachers and staff members, as well as parents, friends, preschoolers in strollers, bicyclists and several puppies. The event could not be held on Earth Day itself (celebrated worldwide on April 22) due to testing schedules, but the bright May weather kept everyone in the right spirit. “Every day is Earth Day at JFK,” explained O’Rourke. “We stress the importance of taking care of our planet and we urge students to reduce, reuse and recycle.” After the walk was complete, the crowd gathered by the back of the school. Three JFK students – Kendall Bensen, Sadia Malik and Phoebe McCann – performed a jump rope demonstration to the delight of the audience, and JFK music teacher James Santoro led the children in a joyous version of Woody Guthrie’s classic “This Land Is Your Land.” “Mr. Santoro selected the song because it appropriately represents what Earth Day is all about,” said O’Rourke. “We need to work together to keep ‘our land’ green.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10549 Fri, 03 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip eighth-grader Amanda Baranek won the Town of Islip’s Waste Reduction poster contest. Over 100 students from schools across Islip submitted entries for the recycling-themed contest, including more than 40 of Baranek’s fellow students from East Islip Middle School. The program’s aim is to promote and encourage proper environmental ideals. Baranek’s creation and other winning posters will be displayed on the third floor of the Town of Islip's 401 Main Street building during the month of May. She also received a certificate of recognition along with a $50 gift card, and was honored at the Town of Islip’s annual Earth Day Celebration on April 27 in Sayville. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10550 Fri, 03 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Districtwide fifth-grade maturation parent presentations will be held at Connetquot and RCK on May 7 at 7 p.m in the Connetquot cafeteria, and at JFK and Timber Point on May 15 at 7 p.m. in the Timber Point cafeteria. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10551 Fri, 03 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Teacher Gregory Kguloian’s sophomore English language arts classes held a friendly competition in March, aptly titled “Beware the Ides of March!" This “intelligence contest” involved two “tribes” of students locked in intellectual combat for academic survival, going head-to-head in a question-based battle of wits. The game's questions were created, delivered and answered by members of two tribes, each organized into two rows. The front line of each tribe consisted of a “chief,” a “second in command,” and a “connection” to the second row, who had access to notes and study guides. The front-row students depended on those in the back row to serve as their experts, and the entire group worked together to answer their opponents’ challenging questions. “This was all set up to reflect the dynamics in the William Golding novel ‘Lord of the Flies,’” explained Kguloian. “The students taught each other lessons through fun and games, and also learned to defend a ‘civilization’ of their own making.” Noting that the intelligence contest proved to be a excellent educational experience for his "tribes," Kguloian gave kudos to the dedication of the participating students. “They organized themselves efficiently, divided up the work and established a ‘brain battle’ plan to ensure success,” he added. “Our pupils are truly devoting so much energy and passion to learning from literature and making real-life applications to show what they know.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10537 Thu, 02 May 2013 05:00:00 GMT The East Islip PTA hosted its annual Meet the Candidate Night at the district’s Early Childhood Center on May 1. Steven Behan and Jessica Carney, the two candidates seeking the open board seat in the upcoming May 21 election, were both in attendance to share their thoughts and views, and community members in attendance had the chance to question the candidates for approximately one hour. Meet the Candidate Night is a nonpartisan PTA-sponsored event designed to inform the East Islip community about the candidates running for this elected position. Voting will take place this year on Tuesday, May 21 from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m in the Early Childhood Center. “I thank Mr. Behan and Mrs. Carney for taking the time to share their points of view, thoughts and ideas with the community last night; volunteers provide their time, talent and energies to share with all of us,” said Board trustee Glenn Reed. “I wish both candidates good luck with the campaign and the elections, and thank the PTA for arranging this presentation.” Photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10526 Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The art of Timber Point Elementary School took over the second floor of East Islip’s district office for a comprehensive art exhibit during the month of April. Art from one of the district’s six schools is featured and viewable to the public in the district office hallway every month during the school year. Timber Point’s exhibit, selected by art teacher Christina Spera, featured projects from students in grades K-5, and incorporated many of the New York State Common Core Learning Standards including English language arts, math, science and social studies. Solar system paintings by the school’s kindergarten students demonstrated both scientific study of the planets and the use of writing to label the planets. The first-graders’ studies of French artist Henri Rousseau involved creating jungle collages, which utilized both social studies and ELA when students were asked to write about their projects. The second-grade artists’ drawings of Edvard Munch’s “The Scream” were accompanied by writing that described their projects, while their pattern studies incorporated ruler skills and math. Ramona Quimby shoe drawings by the third-grade artists were inspired by a book from their curriculum, “Ramona Quimby, Age 8,” while in a collaborative group project, life-size skeletons were created using both science and writing to label each bone. The fourth-grade art included animal grid enlargements, incorporating both science (studies of omnivores, herbivores and carnivores) and math (the grid enlargement technique), as well as perspective landscape painting. The final group of young artists, the fifth-grade classes, presented redesigned money, upcycling projects composed of 3-D letters made out of cereal boxes, and symmetry mandalas made with the use of rulers and compass skills. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10536 Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Please note the attached document detailing the schools, dates, days, times and places for the 2013-14 budget presentations to the PTA and others. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10491 Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for April 29, 2013: Fifth-graders Madison Abrami, Jack Deehan and Jenn Golini of John F. Kennedy Elementary Fourth-graders Mia Castillo, Rebecca Narvaez, Lilly Scholl and Holly Sonnanburg of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Third-graders Nicholette Brunner, Jennifer Brzostek, Gabrielle Chateauneuf, Peter Jacobsen, Luke Kupstas and Jenna Rigo of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10492 Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School Medical and Health Technology Career Academy recently learned about simulation dolls and how they are used by hospital doctors during a visit to The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research in Manhasset. The seniors also enjoyed a “Protocol Design and Development” presentation and broke into teams for a special Research Boot Camp to identify “hot topics” for proposed research. “It was an awesome opportunity for our students,” said Israel Malinowitzer, the Career Academy’s director. Serving as the research branch of North Shore-LIJ Health System, The Feinstein Institute is comprised of more than 1,500 clinicians, scientists and staff who work in laboratories and clinical research programs in collaboration with clinicians and patients throughout North Shore-LIJ’s hospital facilities. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10494 Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip girls golf team finished 3-1 during the week of April 22, earning them a League III record of 7-3 for season. The games featured two season low scores: a 49 by Elizabeth Sallie at Sayville and a 35 by Cathy Marku at Brentwood's Heartland Golf Park. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10474 Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Long Island artist Julianna Kirk visited East Islip High School’s fashion class on April 10 for a three-hour workshop on fused glass pendants, presented through the BOCES Arts-in-Education program. Kirk, a former high school teacher, is currently a member of the faculty at the Art League of Long Island in Dix Hills, as well as the Long Island Craft Guild, the Women Sharing Art organization and the Phoenix Gallery in Bellport. “I chose Julianna Kirk to visit the fashion students because I thought they would benefit from having a practicing artist that works with a very unique medium,” explained art teacher Heather Toomey. “The results are beautiful and the students were rigorously engaged in the creative process.” After learning about the proper glass-cutting tools and safety procedures, the East Islip students were able to cut and shape the glass with grinders. “It was fun to create a tangible piece of jewelry,” said student Kimberly Moreno. “Making glass art is an experience I will never forget,” added Marlena Spotts. Kirk took their final glass pendants to fire them in a kiln. “In the end, my students will have an authentic piece of jewelry to take home with them,” said Toomey. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10475 Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education will hold its 2013-14 budget hearing on Thursday, May 9 at 7 p.m in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. This will be the only budget hearing; the hearing originally scheduled for Tuesday, May 14 has been canceled. Meet the Candidate Night for board elections will be held at the Early Childhood Center first-floor cafeteria on Wednesday, May 1 at 8 p.m. The budget vote and board elections will take place from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, May 21 in the Early Childhood Center. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9451 Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Connetquot Elementary School second-grade students from the classrooms of Crystal Chiari, Leslie Davis, Melissa Love and Jennifer Rizzo took a bus tour of East Islip on March 22, visiting the community’s public library, post office and fire department as well as Stanley's Bakery and Renzo's Pizza. “We have been studying communities in social studies and this field trip was a great way to tour our suburban town and see its features,” explained Love. “The students enjoyed the trip and learned a lot, and later they worked on creating brochures to highlight what they saw on their trip around East Islip.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10418 Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s Environment Green Career Academy students and teachers hosted their fifth annual Earth Day celebration on April 5, showcasing the school’s new 3,500-watt photovoltaic solar system. The multifaceted five-hour event included an all-day variety talent festival in the courtyard, complete with traditional mascot frogs and popular performances by student-musicians like Alexandra Konnerth, Jacob Levesque and Brandi Smigiel (the latter two comprising the duo On the Corner of Who & What), recycling games for visiting middle school classes, and a special “Stump the Solar Guy” game with Solar Dad and Sons President Ken Sanger. Tom Barry held woodcarving demonstrations in the front lobby while Home Performance Technology demonstrated thermal imaging. Over 30 different environmental exhibitors held court in the auxiliary gym, promoting new technology and ways students can help save the environment, including the Department of Environmental Protection, It’s My Bag, Keep Islip Clean, Seatuck, Sierra Club and the Town of Islip Office of Recycling. With Suffolk County Legislator Tom Cilmi and Islip Town Councilman Anthony S. Senft Jr. in attendance, the very first East Islip Earth Day tree was planted in honor of the Environment Green Career Academy’s fifth anniversary. “Once again, this Earth Day event was a huge success and the business vendors were very pleased with the way the Environment Green students handled all of the events of the day,” said East Islip High School Guidance Director Israel Malinowitzer, the head of the Career Academy. “The entertainment and the use of the courtyard added much pleasure and a ray of sunshine. We are very grateful to Mark Gunthner of Home Performance Technology for his continued support from day one of the establishment of the Environment Green Career Academy program. I would like to thank Ken Sanger of Solar Dad and Sons for his support and for installing the photovoltaic solar system in the courtyard as well as providing the students with information on how the system works. My thanks also to everyone who made this Earth Day so special, particularly my Career Academy teachers and students. I look forward to a bigger Earth Day next year." http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10396 Wed, 24 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip boys varsity track team raced into Hauppauge on April 23 to take on League IV rivals the Eagles, and came away with a 76-65 victory and an improved 3-1 season record. Led by coach Marguerite Gomez, an all-around team performance proved the key factor for East Islip. Tom Koppleman and Corey Fitchett were double winners, while Zach Acocella was a triple winner. Photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10405 Wed, 24 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for April 22, 2013: Fifth-graders David Gomez, Emily Iadanza and Christopher Zanone of Connetquot Elementary First-graders Ameesha Bashar, Brody Dickson, Mikayla Horton, Joseph Jakits, Helena Locke and William Zelenka of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10372 Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School’s student-musicians excelled at this year’s Suffolk County Music Educators' Association SCMEA Division II West All-County Festival. The event, held at Elwood Middle School, showcased the most talented band, chorus and orchestra students in the seventh and eighth grades from schools all over western Suffolk County. After three days of extensive rehearsals with their guest conductors, the three groups – band, chorus and orchestra – were ready to perform at the March 10 concert. The orchestra, led by Kristin Benson and featuring East Islip’s James Daley (viola), Nicole Humpf (cello), Skylar Pipitone (cello), Samantha Smith (violin) and Devin Thelemann (bass), performed “Odyssey,” “Brandenburg Concerto No. 3, 1st Movement,” “Moondance” and “To Tame the Raging Rapids.” Conductor Jacob Fowle led the chorus – including East Islip singers Matt Alessi, Brittney Berke, Sarah Bloom, Kendra Canavan, Amanda Carey, Paul DeMasi, Katie Ginty, Steven Murello and Matt Waldron – through “All for Me Grog,” “Shoshone Love Song,” “Cantate,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and “Seed to Sow.” With East Islip’s Elizabeth Hillman as first chair oboe and Kurt Eide as first chair trombone, along with Richard Hughes and Evan Mauner, the SCMEA band and conductor Alec Massaro closed the concert with “Chant and Jubilo,” “The Original Thirteen,” “West Side Story” and “Invicta.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10376 Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education unanimously adopted the proposed 2013-14 budget at the Board’s monthly business meeting on April 18 while honoring some of the high school’s highest achieving athletes and musicians. East Islip’s proposed 2013-14 budget of $109,476,684 reflects an increase of $3,617,713 or 3.42 percent over 2012-13. The estimated tax levy for 2013-14 would be $69,109,469, an increase of $2,567,189 or 3.86 percent. Three key items had been restored from the initial proposed budget, while remaining at the tax levy cap: varsity and JV athletics, the district’s grade 4-12 music program, and full-day kindergarten. Additional cuts of $978,256 were made to make these restorations possible, along with improvement on the revenue side via state aid. All the budget documents presented at the meeting can be viewed both in the Budget section of the district website and as attachments below. After beginning the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance, Board President Ken Cronin led all those assembled in a moment of silence for the victims of the Boston Marathon tragedy. In a less somber spirit, Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello announced that the Board would be honoring special achievements by East Islip High School’s student-athletes and student-musicians. Stephen Guarino, the district’s director of art and music, presented recognition certificates for music excellence to Leah Stevens (All-County Band, All-State Symphonic Band and All-Eastern Band); Courtney Kenyon (All-County Mixed Chorus and All-State Women’s Chorus); Samantha Connolly and Emily DeMaio (both All-County Mixed Chorus); Tanner Schaper (All-County Band); and seven students who achieved All-County Orchestra: Holly Alper, Elaina Lorefice, William Meehan, Jack Newman, Vincent Sheppard, Maxx Vogelsberg and Jessica Willdigg. Recognition certificates for achievement in sports were presented by Athletic Director Stephen Restivo to 11 different athletes. Seven members of the boys bowling team – Matt Amin, Jon Cheadle, Nick DeFazio, John Kavanaugh, Mike Kissel, Jacob Klein and Nick Salentino – were honored next for their remarkable county championship season, in which they also finished in second place in New York State. Faith Penny was honored for her winter track season, during which she earned a fourth- place medal in high jump at the New York State meet at Cornell University on March 2. “Faith has earned All-State status and is the first East Islip Girls winter track and field athlete to do so in over 25 years,” Restivo said. Three East Islip wrestlers were recognized, beginning with Chris Chambers, who finished in third place in New York State at 195 pounds with a record of 47-1 for the season. “He set two school records for East Islip along the way,” noted Restivo. “He set the school record for the most wins in a single season with 47 and the most pins in a single season with 25.” Also honored were quarterfinal winner Jesse Dellavecchia, who recorded two falls at 99 pounds, losing to the eventual champion and wrestling back to a fourth-place finish, and Dennis Ferro, who went 2-2 in the state championships at 145 pounds and was one win away from placing, finishing as an All-State Honorable Mention. In other business, Alise Becker-Santa, the district’s Assistant Superintendent for Instruction and Personnel, recommended three Board policy revisions, which were approved: 1530 – Smoking on School Premises, 9330 – Smoking on School Premises by Staff, and 4343/4343R – Education of Homeless Children. She also presented the certified and noncertified personnel reports, which were approved. Among the changes were personnel settlement agreements, a retirement settlement agreement and a class size agreement, as well as the resignation of Kristen Cummings, the district’s director of math and science for the past four years. In a special resolution on election districts, the Board approved a change from past locations in the the annual budget vote and board election. The voting on May 21 will be held this year at only one polling place, the Early Childhood Center first-floor cafeteria, instead of at the district’s four elementary schools. The Board also approved the property tax report card, a $1000 scholarship on behalf of Assistant Superintentendent for Business Carl Fraser, and donations from the PTA Council of the Arts, the EJ Autism Foundation for the Grounds for Change garden project, and the Connetquot Student Activity Fund for projectors and their installation. The Board of Education will hold its 2013-14 budget hearing on Thursday, May 9 at 7 p.m in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. This will be preceded by a special executive Board meeting on Friday, April 26, to discuss personnel issues. Meet the Candidate Night for board elections will be held at the Early Childhood Center first-floor cafeteria on Wednesday, May 1 at 8 p.m. The Board will hold its next monthly business meeting on Tuesday, May 21 in the district office boardroom, following the budget vote and board elections, which take place from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10340 Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Connetquot Elementary School’s second-grade classes traveled through Africa via song during their two days of performances of “The Elephant's Child” musical. In three separate productions, taking place on March 14 and 15, Connetquot’s youngsters performed dressed in colorful animal costumes representing elephants, crocodiles, snakes, gorillas, zebras, ostriches, giraffes, hippos, tigers, lions and kolo kolo birds. The whimsical story, based on the classic 1902 tale by Rudyard Kipling (one of “Just So Stories for Little Children”), was adapted for the stage by Connetquot music teacher Eileen Egbert from the Virginia Kolk Pedulla play. It explains how the elephant came to have a long trunk, using the travelogue form. While entertaining the parents and fellow students in the audience, the amusing batch of Egbert-directed songs like “In Deepest, Deepest Africa,” I'm a Kolo Kolo Bird,” “The Limpopo River,” “The Crocodile Pulled” and “A Trunk Is a Handy Dandy Thing” also served to educate the participants on the geography and history of Africa. Four traditional African songs from various areas of the continent – “Funga Alafia” (Nigeria), “Dipidu” (Uganda), “Kye Kye Kule (Che Che Kule)” (Ghana) and “Hamba Ni Kahle” (South Africa) – were also included, adding to the richness of the show. “The costumes were stunning, as were the students’ acting and musical abilities,” said Principal Deborah Smith. “The many parents in attendance were enthralled by the creativity of the multitalented actors and actresses. It was yet another great theatrical experience for Connetquot School, and I congratulate all who were involved.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10338 Sun, 21 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The annual budget vote and board election on May 21 will be held this year at only one polling place, the Early Childhood Center first-floor cafeteria, instead of the four elementary schools. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10325 Sat, 20 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT During the week of April 8, the East Islip girls golf team finished 1-1 in League III. Team captain Kendall Allmendinger had two outstanding rounds in both matches, senior Elizabeth Sallie had a season low score in a match against West Islip and junior Cathy Marku had a personal low score of 46 against Bellport. In her first varsity match, sophomore Justina Marku won her point and according to coach Judith Fischer, played an extremely strong round. In the following week, the team went 2-1, with their league record now standing at 4-2. Next week they play four matches, including contests on April 22 at home against Bayport-Blue Point, April 24 at home against Connetquot, and April 25 at West Sayville. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10308 Sat, 20 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School Drama Club will present it's final show for this year. "Dr. Seuss Goes Green," an ecological musical for kids written by Drama Club adviser Susan Jeffares, will be performed on April 27 at the school's Forum. There will be two shows, one at 11 a.m. and another at 1 p.m. Tickets are $2 per person. "We have contacted the Brownies, Daisies and Cub Scouts of East Islip and expect a great time," said Jeffares. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10309 Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School student Jackie Davis has been selected as a finalist in the 33rd annual College & High School Photography Contest, sponsored by Nikon and Photographer's Forum magazine. In June, the editors of Photographer's Forum will publish Davis’ photograph in the book “The Best of College & High School Photography 2013.” This is quite an honor, as over 16,000 photographs were entered from the United States, Canada and around the world. The photo, of a turtle, also appears on the contest's online gallery. “My congratulations to Jackie,” said her photography teacher, Joy Taylor. “We are all very excited about this accomplishment.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10313 Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Harlem Wizards came to East Islip High School on April 9 to play against district teachers, coaches and alumni in a fun game of basketball, sponsored by the East Islip Athletic Booster Club. The fundraising event even included a free autograph session. “It was a big success,” said East Islip Athletic Director Stephen Restivo, who played in the game. “Students, staff and community members all had fun while the Harlem Wizards put on a great performance.” Other faculty participants included East Islip High School’s John Caraccia, Matt Cavanaugh, Jason Lavey, Justin Massa, Tim McDermott, Pete O’Neil, John Reynolds, Jan Ruckey and Joe Tursi; East Islip Middle School’s Mark Bernard, Neal Heaton, Chris Robertson, Rob Schwender and Claire Voss; Connetquot Elementary’s David Lake; Timber Point Elementary’s Gail Rhatigan; and coach Bob Brosseau. Video footage of the basketball game can be viewed here. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10319 Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Classes will be dismissed 15 minutes early today (April 19) for East Islip's emergency early dismissal "Go Home" plan. This early dismissal, an emergency defense test mandated by New York State, will take place in all schools in the East Islip School District including St. Mary's. The district's after-school program will begin 15 minutes earlier than usual. All extra help buses will be at the regular time of 3:50 p.m. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10082 Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The EJ Autism Foundation's seventh annual Jigsaw 4 Mile Run/Walk for Autism will take place this Sunday, April 21, starting at 9:30 a.m., at the East Islip Marina on the end of Bayview Avenue. The event will also include a quarter-mile kiddie run at 9 a.m.; t-shirts and post-race goodies; and raffles and a post-race party at Jackson Hall. All proceeds from the event will be used by the EJ Autism Foundation to support programs on Long Island that work with children diagnosed with autism. "Run or walk four miles for autism and be part of the difference," urges EJ Autism founder Bea Huste-Petersen. For more information including registration, please click on the attached flier. Walkers and runners can also register online at the EJ Autism Foundation, or on the morning of the race (from 7:30-9 a.m.) at Jackson Hall. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4610 Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School PTSA and SADD Club held their annual Fashion Show on March 20, featuring over 80 students and teachers on the runway. The theme of this year’s event was “Bring the Pride Back.” The show proceeds were used to benefit a neighborhood child stricken with cancer, according to organizer Bridget Lopiccolo, as well as for the annual SADD scholarships to be awarded in June. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10272 Thu, 18 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School students participated in the 20th annual Earth Day Groceries Project as part of a fun-filled Earth Day Celebration Event on April 5, hosted by the school's student government. In this cost-free environmental awareness project, middle schoolers decorated paper grocery bags with environmental messages for Earth Day, which was April 22. On Earth Day itself, the bags were passed out to shoppers at Stop & Shop in Islip Terrace. “The people in the neighborhood got a very clear and positive message that the students at the middle school care about their environment,” said teacher Dawn Zeffiro. Besides carrying an environmental message, each bag was adorned with original student artwork. Prizes were awarded to Victoria Keenan for Most Creative, Amanda Baranek for Most Artistic and Erin Meagher for Most Original. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10301 Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Ken Rotunno’s tie-breaking triple in the bottom of the sixth inning helped the Redmen beat Half Hollow Hills West, 5-1, sending the team into first place in Suffolk League IV. The game was scoreless until the third inning, when Paul Dondero hit a single, sending Brandon Dowd home. Three innings later, Hills West tied the score despite stellar pitching from East Islip hurler David Palmer, who gave up only five hits for the day. After Hills West pitcher T.J. Montalbano hit batter Steve Rosenvold with a pitch and walked Nick Osburn, Rotunno came to the plate and hit a fastball to right-centerfield, allowing Rosenvold and Osburn to score. Rotunno scored as well when a relay throw hit him as he was motored toward third base. East Islip’s April 17 victory came just one day after losing 9-0 to Hills West in the first of a three-game set, but left them in sole possession of first place. Photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10302 Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District Board of Education will hold its monthly business meeting tonight (April 18), including the 2013-14 budget adoption and property tax report card. The 8 p.m. meeting takes place at the district office at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, in the Early Childhood Center first-floor cafeteria. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9703 Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The stage at Ruth C. Kinney Elementary was transformed into a Jewish village in 1905 Russia as the school’s Drama Club wowed the audience of parents, teachers and fellow students with their vibrant production of “Fiddler on the Roof Jr.” RCK’s theater students combined their talents during their April 20 and 21 performances of the classic musical, written by Jerry Bock (music), Sheldon Harris (lyrics) and Joseph Stein (book). Based on Sholem Aleichem’s tale “Tevye and His Daughters,” “Fiddler on the Roof” examines the struggle to balance family, religious and cultural traditions against a change in customs and living conditions. The acclaimed show originally opened on Broadway in 1964, winning nine Tony Awards and eventually yielding a 1971 film version. The children of RCK worked especially hard to bring this timeless and thought-provoking story to life through colorful costumes and sets as well as inspired, emotional acting. “Once again the students at RCK worked hard to produce a terrific musical production,” said RCK teacher and “Fiddler” director Dennis Clancy. “The students of RCK are certainly a very talented and committed group of kids and I was blown away by the final production,” said art teacher and set designer Dana Belfiore. “I am incredibly proud of all the hard work the students of the stage crew and set design put into the play.” Musical direction from teacher Margaret Strzelecka proved top-notch, as both ensemble and vocal soloists delivered rousing renditions of the musical’s much-loved songs, from “Tradition,” “Matchmaker” and the always amusing “If I Were a Rich Man,” to the elegiac “Sunrise, Sunset.” “I was so impressed with the RCK Drama Club’s performance,” said Principal Danielle Naccarato. “They were simply amazing! Once again, Mr. Clancy, Ms. Belfiore and Mrs. Strzelecka produced a fantastic show.” Naccarato also noted that a special grant from the For the Kids Foundation had funded this worthy production. “I am so thankful to FTK for giving RCK the opportunity to have a Drama Club and stage crew this year,” she added. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10276 Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students in East Islip High School’s AP Drawing class have been busy creating masterpieces, including two larger-than-life self-portraits in pastel done by Christianna Wilbert (blue and orange) and Sara Accles (pink and black). As explained by teacher William Melendez, other works from this class formed part of a unique series where each student had to create a “concentration” of works on a particular theme or concept, such as “Bags” pastel drawings by Jamie Portera and “Skulls” mixed-media drawings by Bella Watson. Megan Watson portrayed “Things Done Everyday" for her concentration, including drawings in colored pencil and pastels of such activities as eating an apple, putting on eye makeup, reading a book and pressing an alarm clock’s snooze button. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10218 Tue, 16 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Rita's of East Islip will hold a Celebrity Scoop fundraising event on Wednesday, April 17, to benefit the Boomer Esiason Foundation's fight against cystic fibrosis. Four East Islip High School representatives –Principal William Brennen,Athletic Director Stephen Restivo,football and baseball coachSal Ciampi Jr., and girls basketball, football and track coach John Caraccia–will be celebrity scoopers, serving ices at the event from 7-9 p.m. Rita's is located at 105 E. Main St. in East Islip. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10230 Tue, 16 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for April 15, 2013: Kindergartners Lexi Hernandez and Brendan Mcaffrey of John F. Kennedy Elementary Kindergartner Tyler Wichert of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Fourth-graders Steven Chen and Emily Rottkamp of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10269 Tue, 16 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students in teacher Kelly Schwender’s Child Development and Parenting course at East Islip High School recently held a game board competition, one of many special programs the class provides as a bridge between high schoolers and younger children. “The class is unique and special because they get hands-on experience working with preschool children in our own community,” explained Schwender, who has taught the course at East Islip for 17 years. “Education is constantly changing,” she added. “I'm forever looking for and creating new ways to reach all the children and teach them skills to prepare them for kindergarten.” Her students were given a month to design and create a game board involving colors, shapes and letter recognition, one that was not only fun, personal and age-appropriate but that also could serve as a valuable tool for learning. Schwender showed her class over 30 examples beforehand, inspiring their creativity while implementing the Common Core State Standards for pre-K and kindergarten children, which include counting, recognizing numbers and shapes, math skills, sequencing, and patterns. The students worked tirelessly the last two weeks before the deadline on all of their off periods as well as after school in order to add the necessary final details. They then voted for the top game boards in their class for both periods 3 and 4. “They far exceeded my expectations,” said an admiring Schwender. “We had several ties because they were simply amazing. The youngsters were more than thrilled to play them.” The games then went on display for students’ families to view. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10211 Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip boys varsity track team won on the road on April 10, overrunning West Babylon by a score of 105-45. The Redmen’s top scorers were Zack Acocella with 20 points, Andrew Sharkey with 11, and Tom Koppleman, Shane Martensen and Alex Newhoff with 10 points each. “For their individual sacrifices, Shane and Andrew were the best of the meet,” said their coach, Marguerite Gomez. Photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10212 Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Pupil Personnel Department will present a special Solo Training class for special education teachers and parents on April 17. The class,with Lorianne Hoenninger of Accessible Learning, will take place at 4:30 p.m. at the East Islip Middle School's computer lab. Anyone wishing to attend should RSVP toLorianne Hoenninger at accessiblelearning@gmail.com. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10215 Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Parents should note an important letter (attached below) from Alise Becker-Santa, the East Islip School District's assistant superintendent for instruction and personnel, regarding this month's New York State assessments. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10217 Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District Board of Education will hold its monthly business meeting this Thursday, April 18, including the 2013-14 budget adoption and property tax report card. Thursday's 8 p.m. meeting takes place at the district office at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, in the Early Childhood Center first-floor cafeteria. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9702 Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Despite intimidating winds and weather, East Islip Middle School’s Team Phoenix carried on its long tradition of Boot Camp on March 6, bringing their study of the first global conflict to life. Student recruits were assigned to “platoons” and prepared to be shipped off to the “Western Front” with a full day's training in agility, teamwork and physical fitness, simulating field conditions, planning battle maneuvers and problem-solving. As in years past, the event culminated in a parade drill and spirited tug-of-war competition held at East Islip’s Boomer Esiason Stadium. “My thanks go out to Principal Mark Bernard and all the middle school staff who help to make this annual event possible,” said teacher and Boot Camp facilitator Valerie Tator. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10165 Fri, 12 Apr 2013 05:00:00 GMT Classes will be dismissed 15 minutes early on Friday, April 19 for East Islip's emergency early dismissal "Go Home" plan. This early dismissal, an emergency defense test mandated by New York State, will take place in all schools in the East Islip School District including St. Mary's. The district's after-school program will begin 15 minutes earlier than usual. All extra help buses will be at the regular time of 3:50 p.m. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10081 Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Middle School Featured Artists for April 2013 are sixth-grader Camila Corral with her marker piece, sixth-grader Christie Czajka with an op-art colored pencil drawing and eighth-grader Meg O’Reilly with a mixed-media tunnel book. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10190 Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Middle School student government will be sponsoring the school’s sixth annual Coffee House on May 31 at 7 p.m. The middle school cafeteria will be transformed into a “Hollywood Hangout” for students, staff and friends to showcase their creativity in such categories as original or published poetry; original short stories; acoustic and electric guitar; and band, chorus and orchestra solos, duets and trios. An informational meeting on the Coffee House will be held Thursday, May 2 directly after school. The deadline to return the participation permission slip (see below attachment) is Friday, May 10. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10195 Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s Forum was packed with “shavees” and well-wishers on March 20 as the school’s National Honor Society hosted another St. Baldrick’s Day. Volunteers shave their heads during this annual event to raise money for childhood cancer research. The festivities were organized by students Skylar Clemens and Antonella Vazquez for their National Honor Society service project, assisted by the Science Honor Society and teacher Marguerite Gomez. The St. Baldrick’s Foundation began these annual days of charitable shaving over a dozen years ago, and the nonprofit organization has since grown worldwide into the largest volunteer-driven fundraising program for childhood cancer research. St. Baldrick's volunteers raised over $30 million in 2012 alone by shaving heads and fundraising. This year’s St. Baldrick’s event at East Islip featured 24 shavees, according to Gomez, including 10 girls. A total of $7,540 was donated directly to the cause. Ponytails were also accepted this time, to be donated to a charity that makes wigs. The spirit of volunteerism was not restricted to high schoolers this year. Several determined East Islip Middle School students also shaved their heads, including siblings Jenny Murphy (sixth grade) and Thomas Murphy (eighth grade), who joined their older brother, high school senior Billy Murphy, in raising $1,300 for the cancer-fighting effort. “Billy had done St. Baldrick's last year,” explained their mother, Pattie Murphy. “Jenny was very inspired and had been talking about it since then. Then Thomas joined them. Jenny went door-to-door in our neighborhood with Billy and Tommy and also her little sister Kristy. She also went to her friends’ houses, raising money. They asked their teachers as well.” Like many St. Baldrick’s volunteers, for the Murphys the fight against cancer was personal. “Their grandmother Jenny passed away from cancer and their uncle Ange was a cancer survivor,” added Pattie Murphy, “so they did it for them and for Thomas’ friend Brian Fitzmaurice, who was recently diagnosed.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10196 Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Following up last year’s victory at the Long Island Media Arts Show, East Islip High School students came away with two Best in Show awards at the 2013 event, held on March 19 at Five Towns College in Dix Hills. Students from three different East Islip classrooms – James Connell’s Video Production class, Harold Kench’s Broadcast Television class and Joy Taylor’s Photography class – attended the annual competition this year. A total of 13 photography students from East Islip presented their work, with Gabriella Marino chosen as Best in Show for Photography. Brendan Bullard and Brian Potter were repeat winners, claiming Best in Show in the Video category for their film “Slap Stick Figures 2.” Bullard, Potter and the now-graduated David Tekverk’s preceding “Slap Stick Figures” won the top award at last year’s show. East Islip student John Callagy was also recognized in the Recommended Summer Media Arts Program category for his video “The Vigilante.” Other videos presented by East Islip broadcast television students included Bullard’s “The Stipulation,” Potter’s “The Slender Vlog” and Gabrielle Palmieri and Brianna Stephen’s “The Dream.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10167 Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT From whimsical pajama costumes to fast-paced games of European handball, East Islip High School was energized by Spirit Week, an annual celebration of the East Islip school district in which students and faculty are encouraged to participate in a variety of activities and dress as creatively as possible. Held from March 18-22, the event included five consecutive themes: Hippie Tie Dye Day (Monday), Jersey Day (Tuesday), Pajama Day (Wednesday), Superhero Day (Thursday) and EI Pride Day (Friday). Genesis Dawson, a teacher in the school’s science department, put particular effort into her pajama costume on March 20. “Mrs. Dawson was dressed with amazing school spirit,” said art teacher Donna Nelson. “She looked like she just rolled out of bed!” Teachers and students alike participated in a Student Council/Student Teacher European Handball Tournament during the afternoon of March 21. The high schoolers’ victorious Gold Team included Erik Adon, Chris Chambers, Jake Hirx, Chris Nolan and Frank Noviello. Their opponents, the Math Team, featured teachers Jacqueline Barnard, James Cornell, Michael Festa, John Reynolds and Emil Stewart along with honorary member Lauren Pinka. Stephan DeTuris of the student council served as referee for the day, while teacher/emcee Carene Mahoney provided side-splitting commentary. “The crowd was enthusiastic and the event was a huge success,” said teacher and student council adviser Frances Li. “It was a fun way to wind down the week before our much-needed spring break and the high school is buzzing with people talking about it. Next year’s tournament will be even better.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10168 Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Over 40 industrious young scientists competed in Connetquot Elementary School’s annual Science Fair, held in the school’s cafeteria on March 11. “It was very evident that all of the students who participated worked very hard,” said teacher Linda Kunsch, who organized the event. “The displays demonstrated the children’s knowledge of the scientific method as well as their creativity.” A first-place winner was selected from each grade, including kindergarten. Top science winners for each grade were kindergartner Kelly Nelson, first-grader Angelina DeAmici, second-grader Keira McCaffery, third-grader Stephen DeAmici, fourth-grader Juliana Chillemi and fifth-grader Isabella Marrone. These first-place students will move on to compete at the Brookhaven National Lab Science Fair on May 4. Runners-up were also chosen from grades 1-5, including Brendan Munno (first grade), Daniella Chillemi (second grade), Griffen Wylie (third grade), Anna Stauber (fourth grade) and Christopher Zanone (fifth grade). “It was quite evident that there were many future scientists conducting important experiments at Connetquot,” said Principal Deborah Smith after viewing the exhibits. “These students are academic leaders who inspired everyone who viewed their projects, and we are very proud of these individuals who are all ‘winners.’” “I thank everyone that helped make the Science Fair a success through their support, judging, set-up and clean-up,” Kunsch added. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10147 Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Freshmen in Gregory Kguloian’s class in East Islip High School recently worked cooperatively to create their own Great Depression-inspired board games in a special “research, read and create" unit designed to make history fun. “They had the freedom to make this project into anything that they could imagine,” said Kguloian. “This is part of what the Common Core Learning Standards have encouraged 21st-century teachers to utilize when we endeavor to educate our nation's young people. It is not just to teach the required literature in a vacuum – it is to immerse this generation in the knowledge that has been learned via previous generations. We want our students to learn about the ‘bigger picture’ in life, not just brief, disconnected snapshots. The teachers here at East Islip really care about what we are doing to help our pupils succeed, which is why we all devote so much time and energy to helping them meet and even exceed these new standards.” On Feb. 4 the freshman cooperative groups went into action, working together to create their thematic games. They were given blank game boards, with the only solid guideline being that the ensuing games must be “related and connected” to the literature that they had read about the Great Depression, such as “To Kill a Mockingbird” and “Of Mice and Men.” Each game had to contain a game board, pieces, a clear objective to win the game and written rules. Additional challenges were to incorporate such elements as symbolism, irony and foreshadowing. During the project, the students conducted research on the history of board games during the Great Depression; for example, they investigated how “The Landlord Game” evolved into the world-famous Monopoly. The student groups then played and evaluated each other’s completed board games on Feb. 5 and 6. “In this case, my students both discovered and taught about the Great Depression era,” said Kguloian. “These games that they created together show how learning can be fun.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10148 Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Absentee ballot applications for the May 21 budget vote are now available (see below attachment). http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10149 Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for April 8, 2013: Fourth-graders Noel Giordano, Nick Larocca, Giavanna Perrone and Nicole Piazza of Connetquot Elementary Third-grader Jessica Peluso of John F. Kennedy Elementary Fourth-graders Jordan Fasano and Brandon Palomba of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Fifth-graders Thomas Locke and Maggie Tadlock of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10157 Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip schools will be open on Tuesday, May 28. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10099 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Middle School's National Junior Honor Society is supporting the Bracelets for Hope rummage sale by collecting gently used household items, toys and clothing. Donation boxes are located in the guidance office and in the library. All profits from the rummage sale, which takes place April 27 and 28at 26 Roslyn St. in Islip Terrace, will be donated to A Brighter Tomorrow, a local shelter for domestic violence victims Anyone who wishes to donate items can contact Jennifer at 631-918-8833. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10096 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School varsity girls golf team won their opener on April 4 at Timber Point’s Red course. They beat Bellport, 9-0, and East Islip captain Kendall Allmindiger shot a team-low 46 for the day. “Conditions were cold and extremely windy, but the girls did a great job,” said coach Judith A. Fischer. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10085 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s Students Against Destructive Decisions club staged the 10th annual Grim Reaper Day on March 15, organized by SADD adviser Bridget Lopiccolo as part of the organization’s yearlong awareness campaign. “We do Grim Reaper Day to bring awareness to the effects of alcohol and the deaths associated with alcohol abuse, whether someone is killed by a drunk driver or commits suicide due to being under the influence,” Lopiccolo said. As in past years, on Grim Reaper Day a gong sounded every 25 minutes throughout the school day. As it rang out, a SADD student dressed as the Grim Reaper selected and “struck” a randomly selected student to recognize the fact that one person is killed in an alcohol-related accident every 25 minutes. The students selected as “victims” put on black t-shirts and were instructed to remain silent for the remainder of the day in order to signify that a life has been impaired or lost due to a destructive decision. “It is a difficult day for all, but it is a necessary reality that we need to address,” said Lopiccolo. “This is a somber day in the high school, and staff and students take it very seriously.” For video footage of the event, click here. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10066 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The first week of March was a culinary event at Connetquot Elementary as each of the fourth-grade classes celebrated Music in Our Schools Month by performing and cooking “rats” for lunch, an annual event based on American children’s author Jack Prelutsky’s poem, “Rat for Lunch.” The fourth-graders read the poem, culled from Prelutsky’s 1996 book of poetry, “A Pizza the Size of the Sun,” and then selected verses to create a musical tone poem. In music class the students studied percussion instruments – both pitched and non-pitched, including bells, xylophones and egg shakers – to produce accompaniment for the poem, incorporating musical form, ostinato, dynamics, tempo, time signature recognition and proper vocal technique. Cooperation among all of the young musicians was essential in order for them to listen for musical cues during the performance. The Connetquot students also created advertisements and menus for a special “luncheon.” Parents were invited to see the ads, listen to and watch the musical performance, and then partake of the “rats,” created by the children from Little Debbie Cloud Cakes (for the body), M&M’s (eyes), Skittles (nose), miniature fudge cookies (ears) and Twizzlers licorice sticks (tail), all held together with cake icing. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10070 Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School boys spring track season began at home in a dual meet against Half Hollow Hills West on April 3. While it felt more like winter than spring, the boys heated things up with some strong performances in several track and field events. Guided by coach Marguerite Gomez, seniors Shane Martenson and Andrew Sharkey scored multiple points for the varsity squad, and as the teams headed into the final relay events, the meet was neck and neck. Fighting valiantly through the cold weather and fatigue, the Redmen narrowly missed a win, with the meet ending with a score of Half Hollow Hills West 77, East Islip 69. Top scorers for East Islip were Zack Acocella with 12 points, Martenson with 10, and Dom Barato, Tom Koppleman and Sharkey with eight points each. The team’s next meet is on Wednesday, April 10 at West Babylon. Photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10080 Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Due to an emergency, the "Sushi with Chef Tony" special that was listed on the high school lunch menu for Thursday, April 18 will be rescheduled. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10088 Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Long Island Regents Prep is offering Advanced Placement and Regents exam review classes. The one-day, six-hour AP review classes begin Sunday, May 5, and are taught by New York State certified teachers in comfortable classrooms on the campus of Farmingdale State College. Among the AP review courses are AP United States History, AP World History, AP U.S. Government & Politics, AP Calculus AB, AP Biology, AP Physics B, AP Chemistry and AP Environmental Science. One-day Regents review classes will take place on June 8, 9 and 15 at Farmingdale State College. Each course covers essential subject matter (in Living Environment, Earth Science, Chemistry, Physics, Global History and Geography, United States History and Government, Integrated Algebra, Algebra 2/Trigonometry, and Geometry), offers test-taking strategies and reviews practice Regents questions. Visit the Long Island Regents Prep website to register. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10095 Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District Board of Education held a work session and public meeting on April 4 to discuss the Budget Advisory Committee’s recommendations, which had been presented to the Board at a March 21 meeting. While noting that “this is an extremely tight budget” and that less extra state aid was available than they had hoped, Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello and Assistant Superintentendent for Business Carl Fraser did provide a budget update presentation (attached) and stated that additional aid may still be forthcoming, thanks to the efforts of New York State Sen. John J. Flanagan, Sen. Phil Boyle and Sen. Lee Zeldin. Board of Education President Ken Cronin said that the Board had accepted many of the BAC’s recommendations, including the restoration of athletics, non-mandated music and full-day kindergarten; as well as a 5 percent reduction in spending. Cronin also noted that the search for a new superintendent was in its final stages and that the Board hoped to have an announcement for the next Board business meeting. On the BAC’s recommendation not to hire a new data services administrator, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction and Personnel Alise Becker-Santa answered, noting, “this is an essential position.” In regards to the BAC’s recommendation on school restructuring and the possible closure of one of the district’s elementary schools, Finello said that the district will study the suggestion, though noting that current projections and issues of functional capacity might not support the plan. Plant and Facilities Administrator Eric Woellhof provided a facilities analysis and made a special March 2013 report to the Board (attached below) regarding the possible relocation of the district office. The Board will hold its next monthly business meeting, including the 2013-14 budget adoption and property tax report card, on Thursday, April 18 at 8 p.m in the Early Childhood Center first-floor cafeteria. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10097 Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Parents are reminded that they can make payments online through MySchoolBucks to cover the cost of school breakfasts and lunches. To access the mySchoolBucks service, click here. For more information on mySchoolBucks, please read the attached letter from Carl Fraser, the district's assistant superintendent for business. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8589 Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The “bunnies” of Toddler High were hopping at East Islip High School’s sixth annual Hop into Spring Bunny Breakfast on March 20. High school students enrolled in teacher Kelly Schwender’s parenting course worked with the toddlers weeks before to create art projects to welcome spring. They made flower gardens, lambs, chicks, bunnies, jumbo butterflies, ladybug windsocks and paper plate frogs crowned by a banner that declared, “Hop into Spring.” Parents and grandparents came to enjoy this special event along with administration and staff from the high school. “It was a wonderfully festive event to gear us up for spring,” said Schwender. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10041 Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Middle School’s Tri-M Music Honor Society sponsored its fourth annual fundraising Practice-a-thon last month, to benefit the Long Island Cares Foundation’s work in caring for persons affected by Superstorm Sandy. Middle school band music teacher Concetta Stevens organizes the Practice-a-thon each year and presents it to the students. Every Friday morning during March, she and Judith Fischer, the middle school’s orchestra director, hosted an at-school music session where students could practice orchestral music with classmates and play duets or trios. “Mrs. Stevens and I felt that this year, since proceeds are going toward Sandy relief, it was especially meaningful for our students,” said Fischer. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10046 Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students in East Islip High School teacher Daniel Figliozzi's Design for Drawing and Production class recently used the design process to create their own Isometric Dream Bedrooms. Students took on the roles of architects, contractors and interior designers to build their designs. Plan views were created using graphing and dimensioning, and scale and proportion were used to construct the rooms, doorways, windows and furniture. Color wheels were also completed to give the young artists an understanding of color and rendering so that they could apply those techniques to their bedroom plans. Students then experimented with color, form and texture on test pages to create unified color schemes for their designs. “The possibilities were nearly endless for these designs,” explained Figliozzi. “Each student created a design that directly related to their interests and they used their knowledge of isometric view to create exciting and believable 3-D spaces.” “This unit was enjoyable for my students,” he added. “It took a while, but they learned a lot and the final outcomes were truly interesting and unique. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10053 Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip boys varsity tennis team defeated Sayville on April 4 by a score of 4-3. Singles winners were Matt Talamo at second and Terence Nixdorf at third. Doubles winners were Andrew Loizides and Raul Ramos at second and David Carroll and Jon Matros at third. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10054 Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The entire month of April is School Library Month and this year is East Islip Middle School's first annual “Why I Need My School Library” contest. This is an opportunity for students to express what their school library means to them and the importance it plays in their education. Middle schoolers can write an essay, create a poster, record a public service announcement or make a video (view the bulletin board outside the middle school's library for further details). The week of April 14-20 is also National Library Week. During this week, libraries across the country host special events to highlight the roles libraries play in people’s lives. Last but not least, Tuesday, April 16 is National Library Workers Day. All libraries run with the help of support staff. They do very important “behind the scenes” library work and this day serves to recognize them. East Islip students in sixth, seventh and eighth grade can see librarian Valerie Ware if they have any questions or if they wish to share any ideas to help celebrate both the school and public library. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10055 Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School seniors Craig Capobianco, Heriberto Escobar, Andrew O’Connor, Owen O'Reilly and George Poulos signed up with the U.S. Marines on March 21 at an in-school recruiting session. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10027 Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Bouncing back from a tragic loss to claim the title of Suffolk County champions, the East Islip varsity boys bowling team played through a history-making year. Their team average per game was 1,116, which works out to 223 per man, a Suffolk County record. Two of East Islip’s bowlers, senior Mike Kissel and junior Jacob Klein, averaged 230 or better this season. Both of them, along with junior Nick DeFazio, were named All-State, All-Conference and All-League bowlers. Additionally, Jon Cheadle was given All-Conference and All-League honors and Steve Rourke achieved All-League recognition. This year proved to be an outstanding comeback for the Redmen from a disappointing 2011-12 season. “Last year the boys had a lot of talent but were very young and unproven and did not perform like they should have,” said East Islip’s head coach Bob Cheadle. “As soon as the last season ended, the kids dedicated themselves to better practice routines, working harder and caring about each other. Team goals came first.” “Reaching the highest level they could reach and maintaining that level all season, that’s an impressive thing to see young kids do,” Cheadle added. “They kept their focus and sense of teamwork, never letting it slip or letting individual agendas get in the way.” Much of the team’s success can be attributed to the strong instruction of Cheadle, but a great deal can also be traced to the legacy he inherited from former head coach Rick Papandrea, who died last November. “Rick Papandrea was a beloved coach and a fixture in the bowling community for many years here in East Islip, and he will be missed,” remarked Stephen Restivo, East Islip’s director of athletics, health and physical education. “The players dedicated this year to his memory, and Coach Cheadle is now carrying on a great program here in East Islip.” “Rick and I had been friends since our teen years,” explained Harold Cooley, the coach of East Islip’s varsity girls bowling team. “His passing and battle with cancer was a surprise to everyone. Rick always had a passion for bowling and helping anyone who came to him for help. He was the type of person that would be willing to help you in any way he could, even at his expense. He was a diehard New York Yankee fan, a great bowling coach and a best friend to all. He will be missed by all who knew him but never forgotten.” A member of the PBA Tour since the 1970s, Papandrea later opened Rick's Pro Shop at East Islip Lanes, which was renamed The Right Approach. He served as head coach of the East Islip boys varsity team for 10 years, although he had helped as an unpaid assistant coach for the Redmen for many years prior. In his decade at the helm of the boys bowling program, Papandrea’s teams won four county titles and a well-earned state championship, and he was elected as president of the Suffolk County Bowling Coaches Association. “Rick transformed the program from a nonentity to a perennial power,” Cheadle stated. “As a former pro bowler, his knowledge of the game was at a different level than the average coach. We are a team to beat because of him.” The New York State victory was his proudest achievement, according to Cooley. “His teams won three Suffolk County championships, but Rick was most proud of the state championship in 2008,” he said. “That year both the girls and boys teams won New York State championships – the first time in state history that the same high school won both the girls and the boys titles.” Papandrea’s tough seven-month fight against stomach cancer began with his initial diagnosis last May, which was later complicated by an infection. Members of the team visited Papandrea in the hospital in September, by which time the health and demeanor of the gregarious coach had worsened. “It was clear that he wasn’t going to be able to coach,” said Cheadle, who had been his assistant. Papandrea died on Nov. 4, 2012 at age 53, two weeks prior to the beginning of his bowling team’s season. After his loss, Papandrea’s student-athletes made a vow to work even harder and to perform with a stronger sense of purpose as a dedication to their coach’s memory. This extra preseason training bound them together, according to Cheadle, who was promoted to head coach. “In the beginning there was just the raw emotion of Rick’s passing,” he said, “but by the time that the season was ready to start, they had transformed themselves into a true team.” At the 2012-13 season opener on Nov. 29, at home against North Babylon, the East Islip boys began their season domination with 22 consecutive strikes. Cheadle described it as an amazing feat, saying, “Very few adult men’s teams could do that.” Redmen bowlers Cheadle (700 series), Kissel (746), Klein (768) and Rourke (729) all rolled over a 700 series, and their team total of 3,620 proved to be a landmark. “At the time it was the third highest pin total in county history,” said Cheadle. “To accomplish that two weeks after burying their coach – it told me that nobody was going to beat us. Collectively they were ready to go.” Their late coach was never far from their thoughts, though. “To me, that day was all about him,” said a visibly moved Cheadle, struggling to fight back his tears. “The kids had been practicing really hard for months, knowing he was sick, and their first game without him was the first game of the season.” Icons of Papandrea’s motivational spirit were everywhere during the season, from the letters spelling “RICK” stitched on the team’s bowling shirt sleeves and memorial words scrolling on the East Islip Lanes monitors, to bowler Klein’s ritual of talking to the late coach before throwing the ball. His most obvious bequest, however, was one of knowledge. “I teach them the way he taught me,” explained Cheadle, who also credits Papandrea with improving his own bowling game. At the annual singles and doubles tournament on Jan. 9, sponsored by the Suffolk coaches association, East Islip confirmed their immense talent. This tournament is particularly important, according to Cheadle, because it’s set up as two divisions: singles and doubles. The winner of the singles competition receives an automatic berth on the All-State team. Every team in Suffolk County participates, with over 200 competing this year. Ten bowlers in the singles tournament advance to the finals, and this year, three out of those 10 were Redmen: Cheadle, DeFazio and eventual singles champion Klein. In the doubles competition, four teams advance to the championship round. Two pairs in this year’s final four – Anthony Riggi and Dylan Woltje, and Michael Orabello and Michael Riolo – were from East Islip, giving the Redmen a total of seven out of 18 finalists overall for the tournament. “All of the best bowlers in the county were there and we gave a dominant performance,” said Cheadle. “It was another indication of just how good our team was going to be this year.” In one January contest, Kissel bowled a perfect game. In a secondary varsity match that same day, Riggi likewise scored 300. “It was a big deal,” Cheadle said with deserved pride. At the last match of the season against Copiague on Jan. 24, East Islip shot a team pin total of 3,635, beating their own record. What Cheadle called “a total team effort” included a 1,298 first game, the highest game of the year in Suffolk. The East Islip team won the Suffolk County Bowling Championship on Feb. 2 at Sayville Lanes, scoring a team total of 6,801 for the day, the highest total team pinfall ever in the county championships. Their game 4 score of 1,298 was also the top team game ever in county history. Kissell bowled a 300 in one game, his second perfect effort of the year. “That was a big day,” said Cheadle with understatement. “Winning the county championship is actually more stressful than bowling in the state championship. When you have the kind of season we did, everyone expects you to win county. Moving on to the state competition was a chance to exhale.” Before their postseason continued, however, they made sure they had not forgotten Papandrea or their vow to honor him. The new champions held up a picture of their late coach in the winning team photo before heading off to the state championships. “Our team performance at the county championship raised the bar,” said Cheadle, “and it added the emotional element of Rick’s memory having been there all year.” At the New York State High School Boys Bowling Championship, held on March 2 at Strike N’ Spare Lanes in Syracuse, N.Y., the East Islip squad finished second overall. The first game of their match against eventual champions South Colonie High School featured the highest single game score for the entire tournament, with the Redmen throwing 15 consecutive strikes in frames 8-10, while Klein recorded the third highest pinfall of the day. Sophomores Matt Amin, John Kavanaugh and Nick Salentino played well and gained valuable experience. “As fate would have it, we were matched up with South Colonie for all six games," Cheadle explained. "It was obvious after the game 1 score of 1,236-1,224 that we would be first and second all day. The South Colonie team conducted themselves with class and dignity the entire day. It was a pleasure competing with them and I can't wait for the rematch!" As a fitting finale to their year of tragedy and glory, the boys varsity team was honored at the Suffolk County Bowling Coaches Association awards dinner on March 13 at the Hyatt, giving these proud young men a chance to celebrate and reflect on their very special season. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10032 Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District Board of Education will hold a work session tonight (April 4) to discuss the Budget Advisory Committee recommendations regarding the proposed 2013-14 budget. The 7 p.m. meeting takes place at the district office at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, in the Early Childhood Center first-floor cafeteria. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9701 Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Chris Pendergast and his Ride for Life fundraiser will stop at East Islip Middle School on Thursday, May 9. The mission of this charity group – founded in 1998 by Miller Place resident Pendergast and based out the Health Science Center at SUNY Stony Brook – is to help advance research in finding a cure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, to support patients and their families, and to provide ALS-related information. At Ride for Life’s annual event, ALS patients ride their power wheelchairs on local roads and highways, accompanied by supporters in an effort to raise funds for a cure and create awareness for their disease. Over four million dollars have been raised as a result, to fight ALS. “We will send Chris and his team off with our cheers and good wishes along with a check for any money East Islip has raised,” said Valerie Ware, the middle school’s librarian. Please see the attached fliers for further details on the middle school’s Ride for Life fundraising as well as information on Ride for Life’s Athletes Against ALS program, also known as the Triple A League, and Ride for Life's second annual LI Bike Trek (to be held on April 28). http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9470 Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Presented by the East Islip Music Department and the For the Kids Foundation, this year’s high school musical, the charming “Bye Bye Birdie,” was performed with flair on March 14, 15 and 16 in East Islip’s Rydzeski Hall. Written by Michael Stewart with lyrics by Lee Adams and music by Charles Strouse, “Birdie” involves ’50s rock ’n’ roll singer Conway Birdie joining the U.S. Army and its effect on teens in a small Ohio town. The story was inspired by Elvis Presley’s stardom and drafting into the U.S. Army, which took place that same year. The original 1960 Broadway production won a Tony Award and was later adapted into a 1963 film and 1995 television program. “The high school musical is always one of the annual highlights of the East Islip School District,” said Board of Education trustee Glenn Reed. “For three nights we were visitors to Sweet Apple, Ohio for a trip back to 1958 and the wonderful times of ‘Bye, Bye Birdie,’ this year featuring the freshmen through seniors, actors to musicians to stage and production crew.” The large cast included Peter McDermott as Albert Peterson, Courtney Kenyon as Rose Alvarez, Emily DeMaio as Kim MacAfee, Sam Sharkey as Conrad Birdie, Shelly Zimms as Mrs. Mae Peterson, Nick Caron as Mr. Harry MacAfee, Samantha Connolly as Mrs. Doris MacAfee, David Cisek as Hugo Peabody, Paige Epstein as Ursula Merkle, Jonathan Coffin as Randolph MacAfee, Rachael Maretsky as Gloria Rasputin, Matt Mertens as Mayor, Steven Biondi as Maude, Meg Tohill as Alice, Alyssa Stephens as Nancy, Julie Bonessi as Deborah Sue, Samantha Sampollo as Helen, Janine Alto as Margie, Kyra Walls as Penelope, Bridget Kavanagh as Suzie, Alex Agati as Harvey Johnson, Jake Osburn as Fred, Michael Danz as Ed Sullivan, Joe Janover as Mr. Johnson, Valerie Schmalfuss as Mrs. Merkle, Maria Guadagno as Mayor’s Wife and Andrew Sciallo as Trainman. Also featured were Danz and Erin Geraghty as Reporters; Kate Maretsky, Danielle Pafundi and Walls as Sad Girls; Biondi, Coffin, Danz, Janover, Mertens and Osburn as Male Quartet; Alto, Sarah Burns and Schmalfuss as Penn Station Teen Trio; and additional Ensemble members Kristina Ali, Emily Fishman, Catherine Graber, Corey Massina and Noelia Vazquez. Katie Burke-McGoldrick held down the post of assistant to the director, while Caron and DeMaio served as dance captains. “’Bye Bye Birdie’ is a family-friendly and fun-filled show,” said East Islip’s musical director, Kate Keating. “The cast, crew, pit and staff all contributed to making this upbeat musical classic come alive. I loved the characters that our students created and was extremely proud of them for all of their hard work and dedication.” Photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9993 Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip/Dowling School-Business Partnership participated in a joint project with East Islip Middle School and three of the district’s elementary schools to support World Cancer Day on Feb. 4, creating a special Cancer Awareness Quilt. “The cancer awareness event was a great opportunity for middle school and elementary students to work together in creating a quilt,” said Dani Franzese, who teaches family and consumer science at the middle school. During their sewing unit, Franzese’s sixth-grade students were taught basic sewing skills such as threading a needle, knotting thread and sewing on a button. They were then given the opportunity to show off their impressive sewing skills to younger students in the district, teaching elementary school students from Ruth C. Kinney (on Jan. 22), Connetquot (on Jan. 23) and John F. Kennedy (on Jan. 24) the proper way to sew on a button. The students sewed their buttons on fabric in the shape of cancer-awareness ribbons. Each button color represented one of 16 different forms of cancer; for example, pink represented breast cancer and purple represented pancreatic cancer. The middle schoolers then helped merge the individual pieces of the patchwork quilt created by the elementary students to create one large quilt. During that session, a speaker from the American Cancer Society was invited to give a presentation about the goals of the organization. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9996 Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School's annual Festival of Fine Art will take place this year during the week of April 15-19, with student artist demonstrations taking place in the school's library. The Festival of the Arts Reception for these artists will take place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 18 in the library.a http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9997 Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip's For the Kids Foundation held its 16th annual Black Tie Gala at Land’s End in Sayville on March 9, celebrating another year of unprecedented fundraising efforts to benefit the East Islip School District’s students. This year's Gala, themed “An Affair to Remember,” honored two of East Islip’s most committed educational leaders. Christopher Neske, a prominent music teacher at East Islip High School, was named Educator Advocate of the Year, while Patricia Diesu, the former FTK president, was chosen as Community Advocate of the Year. Both Neske and Diesu were recognized for their important contributions and longtime dedication to FTK and the East Islip community. “We were thrilled to honor Chris Neske and Patty Diesu, as they are two individuals who truly embody all that FTK stands for and we are thankful for their commitment to the Foundation,” said Nancy Goldfader, FTK’s president. Christopher Neske grew up in the East Islip community, attending Timber Point Elementary, Islip Terrace Junior High School (now East Islip Middle School) and East Islip High School, where he graduated in 2002. He credits the community, school district and East Islip’s vibrant music department for his love for education, which ultimately inspired him to become a music teacher. Neske attended Ithaca College in Ithaca, N.Y., where he double majored in music education and oboe performance. At Ithaca, Neske held principal oboe positions in the college’s symphony orchestra, chamber orchestra and wind ensemble, and was a member of the Oracle Society, Pi Kappa Lambda and Phi Kappa Phi. Upon his 2006 graduation from Ithaca, Neske was fortunate to obtain his first teaching position at East Islip Middle School. After a year of teaching sixth-grade band at the middle school, he moved over to the high school, where he now directs East Islip’s concert band and wind ensemble, teaches AP Music Theory, and acts as the adviser for the annual school musical’s stage crew and the Tri-M Music Honor Society. Neske also serves as the secretary for the East Islip Teachers’ Association, is a delegate to the New York State United Teachers and American Federation of Teachers, and holds the position of assistant vice president for the Suffolk County Music Educators’ Association. He also serves as a member of the School Improvement Team and the School Based Inquiry Team. During the summers, Neske is a member of the faculty at Ithaca College’s Summer Music Academy. He has played oboe with the Atlantic Wind Symphony, Cayuga Chamber Orchestra and Nassau-Suffolk Alumni Wind Symphony, and has guest conducted for the Nassau Music Educators Association and the Atlantic Wind Symphony. Neske’s involvement with For the Kids began when he was 15 years old, participating as one of the group’s student interns. Since then he has been a volunteer at numerous FTK events and fundraisers, supporting its efforts any way he can. “I have always been inspired by the dedication and selflessness of the leadership, past and present, of this organization,” Neske stated. “I am forever indebted to the East Islip School District for providing me with an unmatched level of education that helped me realize so many dreams, and I hope that I can continue to help East Islip provide countless students with the same opportunities and education that were afforded to me.” Known for her longtime involvement with the For the Kids Foundation, Patricia Diesu's unwavering dedication to the East Islip community has been rewarded with the PTA Jenkins Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award and the Tri-M Honorary Life Membership Award. She was also honored by Suffolk County Legislator Tom Cilmi for her leadership and exemplary service to the community. Diesu and her husband Dwayne purchased their first home in Islip Terrace in 1984, the result of the priority that the couple put on residing in a community with a good school district where they could raise their family. They later moved to East Islip. While her children were attending John F. Kennedy Elementary School, Diesu began to volunteer in support of the school community. For the past 20 years, Diesu has dedicated her time to enhance the education of the students who attend the East Islip School District. She was a committed supporter of FTK from the organization’s inception in 1995. She collaborated with FTK founder Hellen Barbara in 2003, chairing the group’s Black Tie event. When Barbara stepped down, Diesu took on the role of president of the FTK Foundation, and devoted countless hours since then to continue its success. “Patty is always working hard to find ways to give back to our community and schools,” said Goldfader. “Her energy and enthusiasm are contagious, and because of her dedication to this worthy cause, everyone is willing to contribute.” Diesu takes special pride in the success her four children have earned, which she attributes to the positive experiences they encountered as students in East Islip School District. Lauren Diesu, the eldest, is presently employed by Long Beach School District as a reading specialist. Robert Diesu, who obtained a political science degree from Catholic University, has started his own political organizing business. Justine Diesu will graduate in May 2013 from Southern New Hampshire University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Anthony Diesu, her youngest child, is currently a junior at East Islip High School and looks forward to being a scholar-athlete throughout his future college experience. “I am incredibly grateful for the support I received from the community and from the district’s leadership during my time as president of FTK,” remarked Diesu. “I am especially appreciative of the lifelong friendships I have made while working with the members of the FTK Foundation.” At this year’s Black Tie, the lovely setting of Land’s End matched the sharp attire of the guests, including district administrators and educators, parents, and local businesspersons and residents. An East Islip High School student orchestra performed classical and soundtrack pieces during the cocktail hour, providing the perfect backdrop to conversation, dining and auction basket browsing. Serving as a model for similar organizations across Long Island, FTK has donated over $1 million for East Islip’s scholastic programs over the last 16 years. The Foundation donated $70,000 alone for the 2012-13 school year to enrich the educational experience for the district’s children. That remarkable gift was used to restore many of the clubs and activities that were not funded in the year's budget. The Black Tie Gala serves as a scintillating reminder of just how special and irreplaceable the organization is to the East Islip school community. “On behalf of the FTK Board, I would like to thank the entire community, who give selflessly and enthusiastically, which allows us to make meaningful and productive contributions,” said Goldfader. “Special thanks go to Chairperson Gina VanDenburg, who truly made this event ‘an affair to remember.’” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=10021 Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The St. Jude's Math-a-thon at Connetquot Elementary School began on March 17, kicked off with a brief assembly delivered by the school’s student council. Led by teacher Heather Johnson, the entire council planned and explained the importance of the fundraiser in helping children with serious illnesses. They also showed the students in the audience all of the prizes they could receive for participating. "We are all so proud of our students who participate in the Math-a-thon because they are raising awareness about children facing enormous challenges,” said Principal Deborah Smith. “This fundraiser helps all those who are involved because the students practice their math skills as part of the collection. I thank everyone who contributes and takes part in this worthy cause.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9987 Tue, 02 Apr 2013 14:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for April 1, 2013: Fifth-graders James Duffy, Keiran Fitzpatrick, Tessa Sinischalchi, Charles Stallone, Zachary Stein and Emily White of Connetquot Elementary Fourth-grader Olivia Truelich of John F. Kennedy Elementary Third-grader Jake Thall of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Kindergartners Sameer Ali, Meeghan Mahon, Kayli Pichardo and John Talt of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9977 Tue, 02 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Top collegiate wrestler and East Islip High School alumnus Ian MacIneirghe was a member of the Nassau Community College wrestling team that won its second straight National Junior College Athletic Association national championship on Feb. 24-25 in Des Moines, Iowa. MacIneirghe came in seventh place at 197 pounds, earning him Academic All-American status. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9979 Tue, 02 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School senior Gianna Jennosa signed a National Letter of Intent on March 19 to play soccer for the Molloy College Lions this fall. Jennosa has played soccer since age 5 and remained a stalwart member of East Islip’s defensive squad since she first joined the varsity team in ninth grade. Her skills will be put to good use in coach Danny Longo’s program at Molloy. The college, located in Rockville Centre and founded in 1955, was a good fit for Jennosa. “I wanted to be close to home,” she explained. “The soccer program is good and I get along well with coach Longo.” Jennosa plans to study physical therapy while at Molloy. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9986 Tue, 02 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School varsity softball team won their league opener on March 25, defeating League IV rival Hauppauge by the score of 6-3. Eighth-grader Courtney Greene earned the win in her first career varsity start, pitching a four-hitter and striking out nine batters. Heather Zenk had a game-winning, base-clearing single in the top of the seventh inning to break a 3-3 tie. Alexa Martino was 2 for 4 with two RBIs and scored two runs. Shelby Heyward was 2 for 3. East Islip plays at home tomorrow (April 2) at 4 p.m. vs. Copiague. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9946 Mon, 01 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The current issue of "Ultimate Athlete Magazine" features the East Islip High School girls basketball program. Click here and turn to pages 44-45 to view the article. Hard copies of the magazine are available for purchase at local stores throughout Long Island. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9950 Mon, 01 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School junior Leah Stevens will present a special flute recital on Sunday, April 28 as a benefit for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The concert, set for 3 p.m. at St. Mark’s Church in Islip, will feature works by Bach, Debussy, Fauré and Mozart. Stevens, the principal flute in New York’s All-State Symphonic Band and a member of East Islip’s Tri-M Music Honor Society, was recently named an All-Eastern musician and will perform in the All-Eastern band at the National Association for Music Education Eastern Division Conference in Hartford, Conn. on April 4-7. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9951 Mon, 01 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School junior Amanda Schilling was recently honored for her exemplary volunteerism with a President’s Volunteer Service Award. The award, presented by the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards on behalf of President Barack Obama, recognizes Americans of all ages who have volunteered significant amounts of time in order to serve their communities and their country. Schilling participated in the Spirit of Community program this year as a representative of East Islip High School, donating an extensive number of hours to the endeavor. Sponsored by Prudential Financial in partnership with the Reston, Va.-based National Association of Secondary School Principals, the Spirit of Community Awards program honors students across America for outstanding community service activities. More than 370,000 young persons have been considered for these awards – judged on such criteria as personal initiative, creativity, effort, impact and personal growth – since the program’s 1995 inception. Schilling, who started doing community service when she was in fifth grade, was recognized by Prudential for her efforts to redesign and update the landscaping at the local American Legion hall. She organized the entire project, including cleaning out an overgrown garden, meeting with a landscape designer, creating a low-maintenance design for the hall, picking out shrubs and flowers, and recruiting help to perform the necessary work. Principal William Brennen presented Schilling with the President’s Volunteer Service Award certificate and a letter from President Obama during the week of March 18. At East Islip High, the 11th-grader is also involved in varsity bowling and two community service-based clubs, SADD and STARS. Schilling also recently completed her Gold Award in the Girl Scouts. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9953 Mon, 01 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT In lieu of the typical sports night, the East Islip Middle School PTA sponsored an “Olympics” in March, with students and middle school staff participating together in the events and games. The PTA Olympics were held for sixth-graders on March 7 and for seventh- and eighth-graders on March 8. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9959 Mon, 01 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District Board of Education will hold a work session this Thursday, April 4 to discuss the Budget Advisory Committee recommendations regarding the proposed 2013-14 budget. Thursday's 7 p.m. meeting takes place at the district office at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, in the Early Childhood Center first-floor cafeteria. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9700 Mon, 01 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Four East Islip High School students in the school’s Photography Club (Lyndsie Arcand, Jessica Renner, Gabriella Saitta and Corynthia Zdanis) won Cablevision’s “Get Ready for Winter” photo contest. The contest, sponsored by The Weather Channel and Optimum's Power to Learn, asked students to submit photos showing how they were getting ready for winter. The school won a professional wireless weather center and the winning East Islip students were given GoPro cameras as prizes, presented on March 21 in a special ceremony at the high school, attended by their families, Photography Club advisers Joy Taylor and Heather Toomey, East Islip Director of Art and Music Stephen Guarino, Cablevision representatives and Islip Town Councilman Anthony S. Senft Jr. “Heather Toomey and I would like to acknowledge eiMAPS, which funded the club this year,” said Taylor. “Initially, we were cut from the budget, but their fundraising enabled the club to run. Without them, there would be no Photography Club.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9941 Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT A comprehensive art exhibit on the second floor of East Islip’s district office features one of the district’s six schools every month, viewable to the public during regular business hours from 8 a.m.-4 p.m., and Ruth C. Kinney Elementary has been the featured school for the month of March 2013. The displays, selected by RCK art teacher Dana Belfiore, includes work from kindergartners (Jasper Johns alphabet paintings, “The Little White Owl” paintings and “Monsters Don’t Eat Broccoli” collages), first-graders (medusa collages, Seurat-inspired pointillism landscapes, and warm and cool directional lines), second-graders (tiki masks and warm and cool tree of life silhouettes), third-graders (glue resist pumpkins and optical illusion hands), fourth-graders (Day of the Dead skulls, Native American medicine shields and winter landscapes) and fifth-graders (paper quilling). http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9880 Mon, 25 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District Budget Advisory Committee presented its annual budget recommendations to the Board of Education on March 21 at a public meeting in the Early Childhood Center first-floor cafeteria. BAC Co-Chairman Dean Mittleman presented the group’s slideshow (attached below) regarding the committee's recommended cost-cutting measures and program restorations for the proposed 2013-14 budget. Mittleman noted that the BAC had analyzed the draft of the proposed budget, and explained that the BAC had tried to achieve a balance between the educational needs of East Islip’s children, residents’ expectations and the district’s fiscal ability to address those needs. “It is time to act – a critical moment is upon us,” Mittleman said. “Let’s begin to rebuild.” In their proposal, the BAC suggested that the Board of Education reinstate programs slated to be cut, including the varsity and JV athletics program, the secondary music program, the 9-period day at the high school and full-day kindergarten. The BAC recommended adopting spending reductions, including restructuring the elementary schools (including the closure of one elementary school) and the middle school, which would save approximately $2,421,192. Details can be found in the attached presentation. Mittleman also recognized the hard work of the 10-person BAC, whose other members for this year are Elizabeth Attanasio, Steven Behan, Aileen D’Addario, Brian Darmody, Michele Pandolfo, William Schreiner, Michael Steves and Christopher Zachry, in conjunction with Assistant Superintentendent for Business Carl Fraser, who served as district facilitator and co-chairman. Board President Ken Cronin thanked the Budget Advisory Committee members for their time and commitment, before turning the floor over to questions from the Board to Mittleman and the BAC. A Board of Education work session will take place on Thursday, April 4, to discuss the Budget Advisory Committee’s recommendations. That meeting will take place at 7 p.m. in the Early Childhood Center first-floor cafeteria. The Board will hold its next monthly business meeting, including the 2013-14 budget adoption and property tax report card, on Thursday, April 18 at 8 p.m., also at the Early Childhood Center cafeteria. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9862 Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Timber Point Elementary celebrated Dr. Seuss and Read Across America by dressing “wacky” on March 13. All of the school’s first-grade classes – including the classrooms of Vanessa DiPalma, Renee Nelson, Jennifer Uss and Josette Welton – as well as the preschool class of Bonnie Porcelli participated in “Wacky Wednesday.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9871 Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Click here to view video footage of the East Islip High School Breakfast of Champions ceremony from April 15, filmed by the school's Technology Club. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9849 Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students and staff in Joan Dlouhy and James Connell’s Journalism and Newspaper Club recently attended the 2013 Quill Awards hosted by Adelphi University in Garden City. Students from across Long Island attended the event, which annually recognizes the outstanding talents of local student journalists. East Islip High School’s student newspaper, The Broadcaster, has had long-standing success at these and other reputable contests, and this year did not disappoint. Two members of the Broadcaster staff took home awards. Cartoonist Nicole Caico won second place in editorial cartooning, while Jennifer Omland, the paper’s layout editor, took third place in layout. Other Broadcaster staffers attending the Quill Awards ceremony were Editor-in-Chief Sarah Schreiner, Sports Editors Matthew Ferremi and Dan Lombardi, copy editors Dorothy Tomasini and Peter Zepf, and staff writers Brenden Bullard, Kyle Ehlich, Vincent Sheppard and Jillian Staebler. “These are the kinds of experiences that really showcase the talent here in EI,” said Connell. Added his co-adviser Dlouhy, “Having our students succeed along with the best of Long Island’s students only confirms the immense talent and high level of achievement our students possess.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9842 Thu, 21 Mar 2013 19:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School family and consumer science teacher Patricia Emmons Fritz hosted the school’s first annual Mystery Basket Culinary Challenge on Feb. 13. In the frantic, festive food competition, 32 middle school students organized into eight teams to compete, pooling their resources to develop a recipe involving vegetables, potatoes and beans that would dazzle the judges’ palates. “The competition was a real-life lesson in teamwork,” said Fritz. “The excitement in the classroom was boiling over, and according to the judges, the potato dishes tasted fabulous!” “I had the opportunity to observe these FACS students compete for this challenge,” said East Islip High School Guidance Director Israel Malinowitzer, who served as one of the event’s four judges. “They were all busy working on creating their own special food dish. The students were provided the ingredients and required to be creative in producing a tasty and presentable dish for the judges. The students were very excited and enjoyed the competition – and the opportunity to eat all the food after the judging was completed. Mrs. Fritz did a great job putting this event together.” The other Culinary Challenge judges were East Islip Board of Education trustee Kim G. Phillips, East Islip High School student Brandon Cortez and Margret McGlone Gurlides, the assistant director of food and nutrition at Plainview Hospital. The team that took home the top prize was the quartet of Alyssa Ali, Brianna Fiorello, Julia Lambert and Autumn Nelson. Their winning dish consisted of potatoes with a Mexican flavor, adorned with olives, corn and avocado. The winners went on to represent East Islip Middle School at this year’s Long Island Junior Iron Chef challenge on March 16 at Whole Foods Market in Lake Grove. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9859 Thu, 21 Mar 2013 14:00:00 GMT The foreign language department at East Islip High School celebrated Foreign Language Week with a dizzying array of events, beginning on Monday, March 4, with students announcing the weather report in three different foreign languages taught in East Islip: French, Italian and Spanish. Each day the teachers and students participated in activities that highlighted the cultures of France, Italy and Spain as well as American Sign Language, reinforcing target language skills and an appreciation of the beauty of these cultures through dance, food and media presentations. As part of Foreign Language Week, an American Sign Language Day event on Tuesday, March 5 was held all day at the school library, hosted for the third year in a row by American Sign Language teacher Jovina Ricciardi and her advanced sign language class. “There were three different sections in the library where all the foreign language students would rotate around to get more familiar with ASL and deaf culture,” explained Ricciardi. The first section contained song interpretations in American Sign Language in which several of her advanced students interpreted popular songs, including “Payphone” by Maroon 5, “Thrift Shop” by Macklemore, “22” by Taylor Swift and “Home” by Mumford & Sons. The second section contained a PowerPoint presentation of the alphabet in ASL, numbers in ASL and vocabulary related to food, sports and jobs, in which several of the ASL students taught their schoolmates how to sign. The last section contained an art gallery and posters related to deaf art as well as the screening of the documentary “Audism Unveiled” by Ben Bahan, H-Dirksen Bauman and Facundo Montenegro. “The documentary was a great representation of several deaf individuals’ experiences throughout their life with oppression within their family, education and everyday life,” said Ricciardi. “They overcame these challenges like every minority has. My goal for this day was to spread some more deaf awareness throughout East Islip High School so that more of the students can be aware that American Sign Language is not only a language but a big part of the deaf culture and community. This will hopefully bring together the hearing students with the deaf students from the Cleary School for the Deaf.” On Wednesday, March 6, the Phyllis Rose Dance Company presented a Hispanic Heritage program at the school auditorium, while Bryan and Walter Galvis, two Latin dancers with fleet feet, entertained students in the library on Thursday, March 7, teaching them how to dance salsa. “They explained to the students how passionate they were about their profession and the time, dedication and sacrifices that come along with achieving a goal,” said Spanish teacher Patricia Childs. The program culminated on Friday, March 8 with the annual International Cafe in the library, offering international beverages; waffles prepared by the French students; a selection of pizza, gelato and pastries, for Italy; and pupusas, empanadas, and rice and beans representing Spain. “The members of the Foreign Language Honor Society worked nonstop taking care of orders,” said Childs. “They changed money for euros, delivered food from the kitchen to the library, and served gelato, rice and beans, as well as all kinds of traditional foods from different countries. All the foreign language teachers also worked diligently to make sure the day ran smoothly. The week was an absolute success.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9819 Thu, 21 Mar 2013 14:00:00 GMT The first-grade production of “The Day the Sky Fell” at Connetquot Elementary School on March 7 served to meld art, music and science. Co-taught by first-grade teacher Susan Stewart and music teacher Eileen Egbert, the assembly continued the school’s commitment to the goals of the Common Core State Standards. In this musical adaptation of the classic Chicken Little story, “The Sky Is Falling,” the students chanted, “Oh my, the sky is falling,” whenever Chicken Little and her friends announced the impending doom of the sky. “Of course it was only an acorn,” explained Egbert. “How perfect was that for science?” Under the guidance of Stewart, the students had studied the life cycle and growth of acorns as they transform into mighty oak trees. Each student made a picture of an acorn that was utilized in the show’s sets. Later during the musical, students portraying the Three Sunflowers sang a song by themselves, describing the attributes of a good king. Lines like “He always makes his bed” brought chuckles from the audience, and the play’s King eventually learned all about falling acorns from a sweet little squirrel. At the musical’s finale, the King proclaimed that all was right in the world, and announced that the cast would have a picnic under a rainbow to celebrate. The first-graders had created rainbow hand-prints beforehand to adorn the front of the stage, making a perfect backdrop for the ensemble’s rendition of “The Rainbow Song” in English, American Sign Language and (for the last verse) Spanish. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9841 Thu, 21 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District Board of Education will meet tonight (March 21) to hear recommendations from the Budget Advisory Committee regarding the proposed 2013-14 budget. Tonight's 7 p.m. meeting, whichwill include the third and final budget presentation, takes place at the district office at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, in the Early Childhood Center first-floor cafeteria. The next Board of Education business meeting, regarding the budget adoption and property tax report card, will take place on Thursday, April 18. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9697 Thu, 21 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Close to 300 of Long Island’s best high school students convened at Dowling College in Oakdale, N.Y. on March 15 to take part in the fourth annual Long Island Youth Summit. Participants of the Summit presented possible solutions to a variety of problems ranging from protection of water and open space to racial and economic inequalities to teenage abuse of prescription drugs. Student finalists, who submitted original research projects in the form of essays, artwork and videos, attended the half-day Summit, where they worked with top experts to explore solutions for Long Island. The Summit is a public-private partnership between Dowling College, the North Shore-LIJ Health System, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Vision Long Island and participating high school districts on Long Island, with students from 21 school districts in both Suffolk and Nassau counties submitting original research projects to the Summit Winner Selection Committee. On the day of the conference, winners received awards in every Summit topical category. In addition, students received awards for best science research paper, best original video, best original art, best original photo art, and the overall top prize of Best Project. A total of 36 East Islip High School students, all members of the school’s three Career Academy programs, participated in the Summit, supported by teachers James Connell, Nicole Ingram, Paul McHugh, Lisa Neri, John Reilly and Maude Walsh and all the members of the Career Academy Team. Each student received a $500 scholarship from Dowling College for their participation. Five East Islip High School students won first-place awards for their original projects submitted to the 2013 Long Island Youth Summit. They each received an additional $2,000 scholarship in their specific category and will be given the opportunity to accept a paid internship with North Shore-LIJ. Jamie Linz of East Islip’s Medical and Health Technology Career Academy was the Overall Top Winner, claiming the $5,000 scholarship prize for Best Overall Youth Summit Project for her essay on the topic of poverty and health. Taylor Norton of East Islip’s Environment Green Career Academy was one of two students who won Best Project in the Category of the Impact of Hurricane Sandy for her essay about the storm’s impact. The award for Best Project in the Category of Original Web/Photo Poster went to the East Islip trio of Skylar Clemens, Eilish Marquart and Lauren Moscowitz for their original web poster about prescription drug abuse. The three students are all members of the school’s Medical and Health Technology Career Academy. “This event has provided our Career Academy students with a total of $31,000 in scholarship funds,” said an excited Israel Malinowitzer, the Career Academy director and head of the school’s guidance department. “The Youth Summit is an opportunity for high school students to collaborate with experts to come up with innovative ideas that will help Long Island create a better and more exciting future, and we are very proud and excited for our students and teachers who initiated and produced these wonderful projects.” This year’s Summit started with a keynote address by Donald Monti, president and CEO of Renaissance Downtowns. Monti spoke to students about the importance of becoming leaders and being active in building the social and economic future for Long Island through investment in Smart Growth-type planning, as well as building communities that will allow for economic growth and environmental preservation. The Summit featured nine topical workshops that covered environmental, socio-medical and community issues. Socio-medical workshop topics included “Bullying, Cyberbullying and Social Networking,” “Poverty and Health” and “Teens and the Abuse of Prescription Medication.” The “Bullying” workshop was moderated by Dr. Peter D’Amico, the director of child and adolescent psychology at Long Island Jewish Medical Center; and Dr. Whitney Guerry, a psychology fellow at the North Shore-LIJ Health System. “Poverty and Health” was moderated by Dr. Adam Aponte and Joanne Turnier, the director of health literacy and patient education at North Shore-LIJ. The “Teens” workshop was moderated by Dr. Stephen Dewey of North Shore-LIJ. Environmental workshops included “Protection of Water and Open Space” and “Renewable Energy.” Those who served as experts for the “Protection” workshop were Adrienne Esposito, the executive director of the Citizens Campaign for the Environment; Maureen Murphy Dolan, the program director at CCE; Dennis Kelleher, a senior vice president at H2M architectural firm; and Dr. John Tanacredi, a professor of marine and natural sciences who serves as the director of the Center for Estuarine, Environmental and Coastal Oceans Monitoring at Dowling College. The “Renewable Energy” workshop was moderated by John Keating of LIPA/National Grid and Tara Bono of Empower-Solar. Community issues workshop topics included “Living on Long Island: Economic Development, Community and Housing,” “Race, Class, Education and Economy” and “The Impact of Hurricane Sandy on Long Island Communities.” Town of Islip Councilman Steven J. Flotteron; Ron Roel, the president of Roel Resources LLC; and Peter G. Florey, the principal of D&F Development Group, served as experts in the “Living on Long Island” workshop. The “Race” workshop featured experts Diana Coleman of the Nassau Economic Opportunity Commission, Louis Medina of the New York State Office of Children and Family Services, George Siberon of the Hempstead Hispanic Civic Association, and Dr. Nathalia Rogers, the director of the American Communities Institute at Dowling College. The “Impact of Hurricane Sandy” workshop was led by Eric Alexander, the executive director of Vision Long Island, with workshop experts including Joseph Badala and Joseph Carney of the Town of Islip; John Siebert of the Jubilee Resource Center in Mastic Beach, N.Y.; and John McNally of Long Beach. The “Impact of Hurricane Sandy” workshop was added to the 2013 Summit to allow students to document the devastating impact of the storm on their communities and to discuss the strength and resilience that residents and local governments had shown in the wake of this natural disaster. The event continued with a joint session in which students from each workshop presented their solutions to the Summit’s topics, and it concluded with the awards ceremony. “We had a very productive day where the current generation of leaders worked with the future generation of leaders,” said Dr. Rogers, the co-chair of the Long Island Youth Summit Steering Committee. “The purpose of the Summit is to work with the brightest high school students to further their analytical and leadership abilities for the benefit of Long Island’s future. Our Summit partners, who include high school teachers from many public schools and organizations such as the North Shore-LIJ Health System, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Vision Long Island and others, worked hard to make this program a success.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9813 Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip boys varsity tennis team won the first match of the season, defeating William Floyd on March by a score of 5-2. Singles winners were Kevin Nowakowski at first and in his first varsity start, Jon Matros at fourth. Doubles winners were Terence Nixdorf and Matt Talamo at first doubles, Frankie Artusa and Matt Croce at second doubles, and Andrew Loizides and Raul Ramos at third doubles. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9814 Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Revolution Prep is offering its SAT prep course at East Islip High School, to prepare juniors for the June SAT. The course offers 18 hours of Instruction (Wednesdays from 2:30-5:30 p.m. or 6-9 p.m., with five full-length exams on Saturdays). Classes start April 20. The cost is $599. To register call 877-738-7737 or click here. Students should see their guidance counselor if they have any questions. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9815 Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School and East Islip High School parents should note the following changes to the 2012-13 school calendar: The end of the third-quarter marking period was changed from April 19, 2013 to April 12, 2013. The beginning of the five-week marking period for the fourth-quarter was moved from May 17, 2013 to May 10, 2013. Parents can now view these changes on the calendar in the Portal. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9817 Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Partnering with North Shore-LIJ Health System and their staff, the East Islip High School Medical and Health Technology Career Academy will host the school's Medical & Health Career Day on April 30. The event, running from 8:30 a.m. through 1:30 p.m., will include seven different workshops in the auditorium, exhibits in the gym, informational tables in the lobby, and a concurrent blood bank activity. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9818 Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Recycled tissue boxes become "monsters" made by young artists in Patricia Larado's career development class at East Islip Middle School. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9820 Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Timber Point Elementary School’s student council joined forces with teacher Gail Rhatigan’s morning pre-kindergarten class on March 14 for a St. Patrick's Day project. Each child in Rhatigan’s class was teamed up with a fourth- or fifth-grade student council “buddy.” The “big buddies” wrote St. Patrick’s Day cards to their “little buddies” before their meeting. “Everyone was excited and the event was a huge success,” said Rhatigan, who said that she and student council advisers Rose Behar and Cathy Boudart discussed future collaborative projects between the student council and pre-K students. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9787 Tue, 19 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for March 18, 2013: Kindergartners Bella Gomez, Abigale Haworth, Keira Higgens, Eduardo Pozuelos, Charlotte Williams and Dahani Woodward of Connetquot Elementary Second-grader Julia Giordano of John F. Kennedy Elementary Fifth-graders Michael Kilbourne and Christina Rooney of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary First-grader Karley Kreuscher of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9792 Tue, 19 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School PTSA and SADD Club will hold their annual Fashion Show tomorrow night (March 20), featuring over 80 students and teachers on the runway. The theme of this year’s event, which takes place at 7:30 p.m., is “Bring the Pride Back,” and organizer Bridget Lopiccolo promises “a great night of laughs, fashion and raffles.” Tickets are $5 each ($3 for students, staff and alumni, and free for children under 5), and all proceeds will go to the SADD scholarship. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9513 Tue, 19 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT To celebrate National Nutrition Month, the East Islip School District will be offering free breakfast to its students this week, as follows: Tuesday, March 19: Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Wednesday, March 20: Connetquot Elementary and East Islip Middle School Thursday, March 21: Timber Point Elementary Friday, March 22: John F. Kennedy Elementary and East Islip High School http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9762 Mon, 18 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Please note the new Buildings & Grounds page on the district website, which includes the viewable Monthly Facilities Report for the Board of Education from February 2013 and March 2013. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9763 Mon, 18 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Click here to view the Updated 2013-14 Executive Budget Analysis from the Suffolk County School Superintendents Association. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9764 Mon, 18 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Preseason baseball began at East Islip this year on March 15 with a scrimmage against Connetquot. The cold and windy day left the team awaiting the colors of spring as they readied for their upcoming campaign. Photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9769 Mon, 18 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT When the PTA at Ruth C. Kinney Elementary created this year’s “Peace Out with PARP” Parents as Reading Partners program for the school’s students, Principal Danielle Naccarato decided to up the ante. “My challenge to them was to read over 55,000 minutes during those two weeks, and if they succeeded, I would dress up as a hippie,” explained Naccarato, whose costume certainly entertained her students. “Not only were they successful, but they actually read over 79,000 minutes in total.” For the two weeks of PARP, a reading program that encourages families to read together, the action-packed RCK schedule included the “Score a Goal for Reading” soccer event, the Bodacious Book Show, “Wear a Tie-Dye Shirt Day,” “Mystery Staff Reader Day,” “Read My Shirt Day,” “Mystery Parent Read-Aloud,” afternoon and evening book fairs, and a visit to the East Islip Public Library. “It was a great program, and Melissa Smith, the PTA chairperson of this year's PARP, did a great job organizing it all,” said Naccarato. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9772 Mon, 18 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School held its sixth annual Breakfast of Champions on the morning of March 12. Honored at the breakfast were sixth- and seventh-grade students who demonstrated the “Six Pillars of Character” during the 2012-13 school year. Each was selected by a team or department at the middle school. After greetings from Assistant Principal Janet Jones, Principal Mark Bernard and Assistant Principal Christian Seifert presented each of the honorees with a certificate and lanyard. Upon completion of the ceremony, the students, their families and the middle school’s staff members enjoyed sharing breakfast together. For the sixth grade, the students recognized were Connor Barnes, Max Calarco, Johanna Christiansen, Anthony Conigliaro, Jessica Giambruno, Brooke Hommel, Olivia Hoppe, Victoria Keenan, Robert Kurtz, Madison Lane, Brian McCarthy, Timothy Meier, Stephanie Milito, James Mooney, Courtney Morena, Melissa Sconone and John Sidorski. For the seventh grade, the students recognized were Claudia Banville, Raymond Betances, Jason Burke, Anthony Cialdella, James Daley, Antonio Ditta, John Donovan, Kieran Dowd, Thomas Hopkins, Ashley Kniff, Angela Loizides, Breanne Mazzella, Autumn Nelson, Melissa Olsen, Marisa Piazza, Keala Sanders, Maria Schwartzberg, Kevin Varga, Rachel Verdi and Kira Westgate-Addessi. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9773 Mon, 18 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District Board of Education will meet this Thursday, March 21, to hear recommendations from the Budget Advisory Committee regarding the proposed 2013-14 budget. Thursday's 7 p.m. meeting, whichwill include the third and final budget presentation, takes place at the district office at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, in the Early Childhood Center first-floor cafeteria. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9698 Mon, 18 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The proposed 2012-13 budget was the initial topic of discussion at the East Islip Board of Education’s March 14 monthly business meeting, which also included the second of three budget presentations. Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello announced that at 4 p.m. that afternoon, the district had come to a tentative contractual agreement with the East Islip Teachers Association which would enable the reinstatement of full-day kindergarten in the proposed 2013-14 budget. “It’s rare that a union comes forward to talk outside of contract renegotiations,” Finello remarked. Carl Fraser, the district’s assistant superintendent for business, added that the district is hopeful that additional state aid may also improve the program offerings in the proposed budget, depending on the details of the upcoming New York State budget. Three high school field trips were approved: a trip for a music student to perform at the All-Eastern Music Festival in April in Hartford, Conn.; a trip for the boys varsity lacrosse team to compete on April 13 in Cheshire, Conn.; and a trip for the school’s Medical and Health Technology Career Academy to visit Washington, D.C. in May. The Board also approved a donation of an electric piano (valued at $3,000) for the high school, from a former student; a new local scholarship, the Kimberly A. Coffey Memorial Nursing Scholarship; and three recommended revised policies (No. 1530 – Smoking on School Premises, No. 9330 – Smoking on School Premises by Staff and No. 4343/4343R – Education of Homeless Children); among other items. Grants from the EJ Autism Foundation to six district teachers were also announced. In the new business portion of the meeting, Board President Ken Cronin provided an update on the district’s search for a new superintendent of schools. Cronin noted that interviews were taking place and that the Board was down to two candidates. The East Islip School District Board of Education will next meet on Thursday, March 21, for the third and final budget presentation during which the Budget Advisory Committee will present its recommendations regarding the proposed 2013-14 budget. That meeting will take place at 7 p.m. at the district office at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, in the Early Childhood Center first-floor cafeteria. A Board of Education work session will take place on Thursday, April 4, to discuss the Budget Advisory Committee recommendations. That meeting will take place at 7 p.m. in the Early Childhood Center first-floor cafeteria. The Board will hold its next monthly business meeting, including the 2013-14 budget adoption and property tax report card, on Thursday, April 18 at 8 p.m., also at the Early Childhood Center cafeteria. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9732 Fri, 15 Mar 2013 14:00:00 GMT Now is the time for East Islip High School seniors to apply for scholarships. Local scholarships are awarded to East Islip seniors at the school's annual Senior Awards Night on June 4. Students (seniors only) will be considered for these scholarships and awards on the basis of academic achievement, extracurricular or community involvement, and in some cases, financial need. Some of these scholarships have specific criteria, so students must be sure to complete the applications fully and follow any instructions carefully. All local scholarship applications are due at the school's guidance office by Wednesday, April 10 at 3 p.m., without exception. Click here to view the local scholarship list. For a detailed list of annual scholarships (general and non-local), including application and deadline information, click here. Be sure to also bookmark the district's Scholarships page for further assistance. College-specific scholarships are posted on the bulletin board outside the guidance department. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9717 Fri, 15 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Connetquot Elementary School recently received grants for fitness equipment from the EJ Autism Foundation and the Nassau Suffolk Chapter of the Autism Society of America, which were used to create a special fitness room for students in the school’s self-contained classes. Krish Kahjuria, Mary Perner, Eric Petersen and Sara Spruyt are among the children who have been enjoying use of the equipment, under the supervision of teacher Linda Kunsch. “We are grateful for the support of our generous donors, the EJ Autism Foundation and NSASA,” said Principal Deborah Smith. “The students immediately began to successfully exercise on the equipment as soon as they saw the fitness pieces. Their smiles lit up the room and their excitement was contagious.” The inclusive spirit of this adaptive gym fits right in with Connetquot’s ethos. “We at Connetquot teach to the whole 'PIE' – the physical, intellectual and emotional side of every child,” Smith added. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9723 Fri, 15 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District Board of Education will hold its monthly business meeting tonight (Thursday, March 14). It will include the second budget presentation to discuss the proposed 2013-14 budget. Tonight's 8 p.m. meeting takes place at the district office at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, in the first-floor cafeteria of the former Early Childhood Center. The remaining (third) budget presentation will take place on Thursday, March 21. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9685 Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students in Donna Nelson’s Studio in Art classes at East Islip High School recently used notan designs, a traditional Japanese paper cutting art, to create effective collages based on subjects of their choice. “Notan” is the term used by Japanese artists to express “light and dark” as an element of design, an idea that might be termed “positive and negative space” in the West. The students brainstormed their subjects by creating a taxonomy list – an organizational A-Z list of words that represent objects that could be drawn or cut out in detail – in their notebooks and sketchbooks, choosing at least four different objects or images to create notan collages. In addition to the great variety of paper that the high school artists had access to, they were also encouraged to use markers, colored pencils and oil pastels to unify their drawings by creating an environment for their collage arrangements, which were secured to their papers using glue sticks. To present their work formally, they mounted their notan collages on their choice of colored construction paper, completing their visual expression of the assignment. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9687 Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Timber Point Elementary School violinist Sophia Bates has won the Suffolk County Music Educators Association’s Laurence Paul Gray Scholarship to attend the Usdan Center for the Creative and Performing Arts this summer. She was presented the award during the opening ceremony of the Division I Central SCMEA All-County Concert, held at East Islip High School on March 10, where she not only participated in the festival but also earned principal chair of her section. Bates, a fifth-grader at Timber Point, was chosen over numerous applicants. “The SCMEA committee was quite impressed with her musical background, experience and talent,” said Jaime DeMaria, Timber Point’s orchestra director. The Usdan Center, a not-for-profit summer arts camp in Wheatley Heights, is now in its 45th season and enrolls 1,600 students each year, ages 6-18. Usdan features more than 40 different programs of study, including orchestra. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9689 Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT On Tuesday, April 9, the Harlem Wizards will be coming to East Islip High School to play a basketball game against district teachers and coaches (also known as the East Islip Athletic Boosters). The 7 p.m. fundraising event, sponsored by the East Islip Athletic Booster Club, takes place at the high school gymnasium and will include refreshments, souvenirs and a free autograph session. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased via the attached preorder form, in-person at the high school lobby from 4-7 p.m. on April 2, or at the door on April 9. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9691 Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School senior Richard Llewellyn Jr. was the winner of the 100-yard butterfly race at the Suffolk County varsity boys swimming championships and state qualifiers, held on Feb. 16 at Suffolk County Community College in Brentwood. In addition to Llewellyn’s first-place finish in the 100 fly, with a time of 52.50, he earned another All-Long Island honor at the county meet by finishing third in the 200-yard freestyle race with a time of 145.34. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9660 Wed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Members of East Islip High School’s Students Against Destructive Decisions club visited East Islip Middle School classrooms during Tolerance Week to give their annual presentation on bullying, peer pressure, drugs, alcohol and self-image. The SADD Tolerance Week program, which ran this year from Feb. 11-15, teaches middle schoolers how to make good decisions, enforced by hearing positive messages from upperclassmen in the high school. It began eight years ago when SADD adviser Bridget Lopiccolo applied for and won a $300 grant from Mothers Against Drunk Driving for a DVD presentation program for seventh-graders. Lopiccolo and her SADD students successfully developed a complementary dialogue presentation to accompany the DVD program, along with dispensing pen, pencil and lollipop prizes to remind the middle schoolers about the program. East Islip High School students from SADD are given an opportunity each year since to sign up to visit the middle school during Tolerance Week and present the program. The high school’s SADD students who participated in the 2013 Tolerance Week presentation included Micaela Alberti, Ashley Cimato, Erin Evers, Steven Fabry, Emma Gargulio, Jon Gorman, James Lopiccolo, Moira McGrath, Daniel Ruland, Gabby Saitta and Kaitlyn Selzer. “The SADD members did a nice job, as always” said Lopiccolo. “They are great role models.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9670 Wed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students in Robert Chiarelli’s fifth-grade class at Connetquot Elementary recently explored the world of nonfiction books, expanding their knowledge and entertaining their peers with book reports and visual projects in a nod to the new Common Core State Standards, which emphasize familiarizing the students with nonfiction texts and having them determine the pertinent information that the books contain. After the class discussed the features of nonfiction text, each individual student was given the option of choosing any book on any topic that he or she wanted to learn more about, with topics ranging from people and places to specific events. Chiarelli also strongly encouraged them to choose topics that they had no prior knowledge of. The reports had to address the format and the author's style in delivering the detailed information contained in the selected book. The students were required to paraphrase the specific evidence from their books and organize the structure of their report in a similar but condensed manner. “My students agreed that the text was difficult at times to understand,” said Chiarelli. “They needed to be selective and to make educated decisions as to what information to include within their reports, as they were restricted in regards to the length.” The fifth-graders were also given the option of choosing their own visual component to accompany the report. Some of the graphic elements they used were wanted posters, models, timelines and even costumes embodying people featured in the books. They were then required to present their written reports and their visual components to their classmates, who proved to be an active, engaged and respectful audience. “The class found the books incredibly interesting and the students now look at the genre of nonfiction in a completely different light,” said Chiarelli. “They even felt the desire to learn more about some of the topics.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9648 Tue, 12 Mar 2013 07:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for March 11, 2013: First-grader Emily Jackson of John F. Kennedy Elementary First-graders Alana Curran and Catriona MacLeod of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Second-graders Alyssa Ancona and Ryan Clark of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9638 Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Middle School student government will be hosting a fun-filled Earth Day Celebration Event on Friday, April 5 from 3-3:40 p.m. in the school's cafeteria, involving participation in the 20th annual Earth Day Groceries Project. See the attachment for more information. Mandatory permission slips for participating students (due Thursday, April 4) are also attached below. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9643 Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip students have once again excelled in the annual PTA Reflections arts contest, led by middle schooler Kerri Kolensky, who won the Suffolk County Award of Excellence in Literature from the Suffolk Region PTA, and Spencer Kavanagh of John F. Kennedy Elementary School, who won the Suffolk County Award of Excellence in Music Composition. Kolensky’s and Kavanagh’s entries both on the theme of “The Magic of a Moment,” not only achieved victory on the county level, but also won during the next round of judging at the New York State PTA level. They both will be recognized at the state PTA convention in November. “The PTA Reflections program was described by its founder, Mary Lou Anderson, as almost too simple,” said Linda Hillman, the East Islip Middle School PTA Reflections chairperson. “That simplicity – of asking children to express themselves artistically based on a common theme – is the foundation of this longstanding PTA program.” Students participating in PTA Reflections submit artwork to their local PTAs, where the works are judged at the local level. The winning entries advance to the county, then to the state. Top state award-winning entries advance to the national level of judging. “This year we had over 100 student participants districtwide,” said Hillman. “We had winners move onto judging at the Suffolk County level in all categories ranging in age from kindergarten through high school.” Three other district Reflections winners were selected from East Islip at the county level and moved on to judging at the state level: Emily Jean White at Connetquot Elementary in Photography, Paige Maurici at JFK in Dance Choreography and Julianna Longo at Ruth C. Kinney Elementary in Music Composition. Along with Kolensky and Kavanagh, they will be presented with certificates from the Suffolk Region PTA at the annual Reflections Showcase in April. Other East Islip Middle School students honored for their work in the 2012 Reflections contest were Sarah Bloom and Gregory Cassiano, both winners of the school-level Award of Excellence in Literature; Thomas Allen, Raymond Betances and Angela Loizides, who won the Award of Merit in Literature; and Edmund Martorella, given the Award of Excellence in Photography. Middle school students who participated in PTA Reflections but did not win any of the categories still received a participation prize and congratulations from Principal Mark Bernard. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9644 Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Niamh Ashe and Faith Penny, both members of the East Islip High School girls varsity winter track and field team, competed at the Eastern States meet on Feb. 25. Ashe finished in second place for the 2-mile run, while Penny finished in fourth place for all high jumpers, qualifying both to participate in the Nationals Meet at the famous New York Armory track on March 8. Penny was also awarded a fourth-place medal at the New York State meet at Cornell University on March 2. She has earned All-State status, the first East Islip girls winter track and field athlete to do so in over 25 years. For East Islip's boys track team, Andrew Sharkey earned the title of league champion of the 600-meter run. Other season highlights included strong performances from athletes Jeloni Williams (second in the long jump), Corey Fitchett (third in triple jump), Shane Martensen (sixth in the 1600), Tom Koppleman (sixth in high hurdles) and Evan Barnes (fifth in the long jump). The EI 4 by 4 team took second place with runners Sharkey, Koppleman, Brian Smith and Williams. Photo by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9645 Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Middle School National Junior Honor Society participated in the Aeropostale Teens for Jeans campaign during January and early February in an effort to help provide needed jeans for teens in area homeless shelters. The school donated 366 pairs of washed, gently used jeans, which were then driven to the local Aeropostale outlet at the South Shore Mall in Bay Shore. For each pair of jeans donated, students were entered in a schoolwide raffle for a gift basket, and Aeropostale provided a 25 percent off coupon for a new pair of jeans for each pair the middle school donated. On a national level, the company will award $5,000 prizes to the top collecting elementary, middle and high schools, and the top collecting Canadian school. The school that collects the most jeans will win a grand prize of $10,000, a party and Aeropostale hoodies customized with the school’s name. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9624 Mon, 11 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT A new monthlong charitable program at East Islip High School debuted on March 6. Hosted by Alyssa Sciarrino, the school’s string orchestra teacher, the Harry Chapin Practice-a-thon combines fun practice sessions for East Islip’s music students with an important community goal. All proceeds for the event, scheduled for every Wednesday during March, will help the Long Island Cares Foundation assist persons affected by Superstorm Sandy. “It’s similar to a math-a-thon,” explained Sciarrino. “The kids can practice for however long they want, and for every minute they practice, a sponsor can donate a penny, a nickel, a dime – however much they choose.” At the first Practice-a-thon session, approximately 15 student-musicians participated, practicing for a worthy cause and sharing some pizza slices. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9623 Sun, 10 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip's Mock Trial Team defeated Kings Park on March 6. With this win, the team has qualified for the Suffolk County Playoffs for the 11th consecutive season. Look for a more detailed feature article on the team's season, once the playoffs are finished. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9581 Fri, 08 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT John F. Kennedy Elementary in the East Islip School District kicked off the Parents as Reading Partners program – its 2013 theme is “JFK School Spirit” – with a three-day spring book fair from Feb. 5-7. During the book fair, local author and JFK parent Barbara Prignano visited the school and brought not only her books to read, but announced a special “What’s the Title?” contest. Participating students were asked to create a title for the next book she will be writing. Fourth-grader Dylan Purdy was chosen as the contest winner for his original title, “The Tiny Tomato and His Terrific Manners,” which will be the name of Prignano’s next literary creation. “We have such a dedicated Book Fair Committee and group of volunteers that always make our book fairs wonderful,” said Susan Kavanagh, PTA vice president at JFK. “This year, with Barbara’s contest, we had something extra special planned.” Prignano’s next book signing appearance takes place March 23 at Book Revue in Huntington. Visit her website for further details. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9584 Fri, 08 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School Academic Team traveled to Manhattan on Jan. 30 to compete in the second round of “The Challenge,” MSG Varsity’s award-winning high-school quiz show. Team captain William Zachary Purdy, fellow seniors Vincent Sheppard and Peter Zepf, and junior William Meehan participated in the match against William Floyd High School of Mastic Beach, with William Murphy and Bryan Tadlock rounding out the team as alternates. “It was an exciting, close game,” said teacher and team adviser Marylou Ferrieri. “Unfortunately, East Islip lost the lead in the last segment of the match and will not advance to subsequent rounds. In spite of this crushing loss, our team performed admirably. They are strong competitors, but sometimes the categories are indeed ‘challenging.’ We thank everyone for their support during the 2012-13 season.” The match can be seen on MSGVarsity.com here. Photos from the competition can be viewed here. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9585 Fri, 08 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The youngest children in the at Connetquot Elementary School student body – first-graders from Lesia Virga and Elizabeth McInerney’s class and kindergartners from Moira Timmer's class – heralded the arrival of spring and Music in Our Schools Month with the enchanting original musical “The Mitten.” Adapted for the stage by Connetquot music teacher Eileen Egbert, “The Mitten” is based on Jan Brett’s 1989 story of the same name. In this version of a Ukrainian folk tale, animals of varying sizes huddle into a found mitten to keep warm. The white mitten continues to stretch to accommodate the woodland creatures, until a tiny mouse hops on a bear’s nose. The mouse’s whiskers cause the bear to sneeze, propelling all the animals out of the mitten. The owner of the lost mitten, the character Nikki, brings his stretched-out mitten back to his Baba (the grandmother) as the snow falls. “In keeping with the Common Core State Standards, the students learned the story through reading the book,” explained Egbert. “Mathematics, science and music were all incorporated into this lesson.” Singing in a variety of languages (including English, Spanish, Turkish and Russian), the students brought the play’s various characters to life, including snowflake narrators and over half a dozen different forest animals. “The children’s performances were grand and spectacular,” remarked Principal Deborah Smith, who proudly attended the March 1 production. Noting the fact that the kindergarten students were making their Connetquot stage debut, she said, “They performed with style and real theatrical presence. Another fabulous grade full of talented students enthralled their peers with their acting.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9559 Thu, 07 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Middle School Featured Artists for March 2013 are two sixth-graders: Shannon Hubany with her “Symmetrical Insect Painting,” and Katelyn Spina with a watercolor painting titled “Winter Birch Tree.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9560 Thu, 07 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District Board of Education held its first of three Community Budget Presentations for the 2013-14 budget on March 7. The Community Budget Presentation #1 is available for viewing, both on the district website's Budget page and attached below. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9561 Thu, 07 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District's first budget presentation to discuss the proposed 2013-14 budget will take place Thursday, March 7. Tonight's 7 p.m. meeting is open to the public, and will take place at the district office at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, in the first-floor cafeteria of the former Early Childhood Center. The remaining two budget presentations will take place on Thursday, March 14 (along with the Board of Education's business meeting) and Thursday, March 21. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9528 Thu, 07 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT This year’s high school musical, “Bye Bye Birdie,” will be performed on March 14, 15 and 16 in Rydzeski Hall. Presented by the East Islip Music Department and the For the Kids Foundation, the show will begin each night at 7:30 p.m. Ticket order forms are available in the school buildings’ main offices and are also attached below. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9534 Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students in Heather Safo and Jessica Sauers’ second-grade class celebrated the 100th day of school by participating in several activities focused on the number 100. In math, they read and answered clues about number value and place value to identify and color specific numbers on a hundreds chart and reveal a secret picture. In science, they estimated how many minutes and seconds it would take to jump 100 times, where 100 steps outside of their classroom door would take them, how many inches tall would 100 stacked pennies measure and how much liquid would 100 drops of water be. They worked in groups to compare their estimates with the actual results. During Writer's Workshop throughout the week, the second-graders used the writing process to create written paragraphs describing their predictions about life when they are 100 years old. At the end of the 100th day, the class celebrated by creating a 100th day snack with their friends from SCOPE. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9535 Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Winter Storm Nemo may have forced a rescheduling to Feb. 12 and 13, but it couldn’t dampen East Islip Middle School’s young thespians’ enthusiasm and theatrical ambitions as they put on two superlative performances of Meredith Willson’s 1957 Broadway smash “The Music Man.” Based on a story by Willson and Franklin Lacey, “The Music Man” tells the story of a con man, Harold Hill, who pretends to be a bandleader selling uniforms and instruments to scam unsuspecting townsfolk. When he arrives in River City, Iowa, he and librarian Marian Paroo fall in love, complicating his scheme. The original show ran for 1,375 performances, winning five Tony Awards (including Best Musical), claiming the very first Grammy Award for “Best Original Cast Album,” and spurring a 1962 film adaption. Its popularity continues to the present day, pleasing countless audiences, and East Islip’s junior version proved no exception. “The students all worked very hard and pulled together to bring this all-American show to life,” said director/choreographer Jenna Wolf. “I could not be prouder of them.” Wolf and Linda Hillman’s colorful costuming and the impressive set design by Daniel Figliozzi helped set a special mood, while accompanist Phillip Lopinto and soundman Doug Rowand ensured the audio was stellar. The cast included Connor Barnes as Harold Hill, Sarah Bloom as Marion Paroo, Angelina Parisi as Mrs. Paroo, Sarah Hillman as Winthrop Paroo, Nikolas Perez as Marcellus Washburn, Gregory Cassiano as Mayor Shinn, Amanda Carey as Eulalie Mackecknie Shinn, James Daley as Tommy Djilas, Julia DiCarlo as Zaneeta Shinn, Emily Vazquez as Gracie Shinn, Dominique Degener as Amaryllis, Jordan Rant as Charlie Cowell, Nicole Surace as the Constable, and Madison Lane as the Conductor. Also appearing in the production were Alexa Benitez, Jenna Donnelly, Karina Gallagher, Elizabeth Hillman, Nicole O'Connor, Angelina Perrone and Katelyn Spina as the Pick-a-little Ladies; Claudia Banville, Amanda Baranek, Cassandra Manfredi and Stephanie Milito as the Barbershop Quartet; James Daley, Michael Vito Perrone, Katrina Shea, Cassidy Triolo and Meghan Walsh as Travelling Salesmen; Kristen Bayreuther, Caroline Buckley, Sophia Gerace, Cristina Maher, Jessica Muroff and Erica Sciallo as Teen Girls; and Emily Mahoney, Nicole Muroff and Annie Nastasi as Kids. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9536 Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Suffolk County champion East Islip High School boys bowling team finished second overall in the NYSPHSAA state tournament, held March 2 at Strike N Spare Lanes in Syracuse. The team, coached by Bob Cheadle, included Matt Amin, Jon Cheadle, Nick DeFazio, John Kavanaugh, Mike Kissel, Jacob Klein, Steven Rourke and Nick Salentino. Klein recorded the third highest pinfall in the tournament. Game 1 of their match against eventual champions South Colonie High School featured the highest single game score for the entire tournament, with East Islip throwing 15 consecutive strikes in frames 8-10. "As fate would have it, we were matched up with South Colonie for all six games," said Cheadle. "It was obvious after the game 1 score of 1236-1224 that we would be first and second all day. The South Colonie team conducted themselves with class and dignity the entire day. It was a pleasure competing with them. Can't wait for the rematch!" http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9247 Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT In recognition of Black History Month and to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., two fifth-grade classes at Connetquot Elementary School presented a special “I Have a Dream” mini-concert on Feb. 28. Directed by music teacher Eileen Egbert, the production included music, important facts and historical references. As the students spoke of the importance of equality and human rights, the presentation connected to the literacy instruction they are being taught in relation to the newly implemented New York State Common Core Learning Standards. As Principal Deborah Smith explained, fifth-graders in Connetquot and across the district are involved in conversations about the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and its impact on today's society. “This wonderful musical production integrated the current English language arts and social studies curricula,” said Smith. “What a meaningful tribute to Dr. King and the many influential African-Americans who have positively influenced our lives.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9515 Tue, 05 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for March 4, 2013: Third-graders Alex Aristides, Steve Carlino, Brianna Fairbrother, Bethzaida Lemus and Chiara Mosca of Connetquot Elementary Third-graders Kyra Kreuscher and Robbie Moore of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9507 Tue, 05 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School’s students and faculty observed Rare Disease Day on Feb. 28, an annual event held on the last day of February to raise awareness for rare diseases and improve access to treatment and medical representation for individuals with rare diseases and their families. The main objective of the day is to ensure that the general public and decision-makers are aware and informed about rare diseases and their impact on patients’ lives. The impetus behind the school’s participation was parent Gina Engblom, whose son Kyle, 14, attends the middle school. “I found out about Rare Disease Day on the Web,” she explained. “I had some t-shirts made and gave them to some of Kyle's friends and staff to raise awareness for the day.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9477 Mon, 04 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Ruth C. Kinney Elementary School welcomed Agostino Arts on Feb. 26, whose Bodacious Books show served as an exciting beginning for the school’s annual two-week Parents as Reading Partners program. Students were invited onstage to perform “Jack in the Beanstalk” with the cast, a production that included a 60-foot beanstalk. “The show reminds students of the fun they've had with their favorite books and inspired them to go the library and look for more,” remarked Laura Tohill, the RCK PTA’s 1st vice president. “It was an incredible way to kick off PARP at RCK.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9478 Mon, 04 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District will present a special Common Core Learning Standards workshop on Tuesday, March 5 for parents of children in grades K-8. The event will take place at 6 p.m. in the district office boardroom located at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9465 Mon, 04 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School School Improvement Team Committee is requesting help in updating a plaque located in the main lobby of the high school. This plaque recognizes East Islip High School graduates who have graduated from military academies. Anyone with information on individuals that this might apply to is asked to forward the graduate's name, the year they graduated East Islip and the name of the military academy they attended. This information should be emailed to the coordinator of the effort, Nicole Ingram, at nkaplan@eischools.org. Questions may be directed to Connie Bilello at 631-224-2101. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9444 Fri, 01 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT In what has become a beloved annual event, Timber Point Elementary School teacher Gail Rhatigan’s preschool class celebrated the 109th birthday of beloved author Dr. Seuss on March 1. Born as Theodor Geisel on March 2, 1904 in Springfield, Mass., Geisel first worked in advertising illustration and political cartooning before finding his popular niche as a writer for the young. During his long career, Seuss published 46 children's books, including such humorous favorites as “The Cat in the Hat,” “Horton Hatches the Egg,” “Yertle the Turtle,” “Green Eggs and Ham” and “One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish,” as well as the “The Lorax,” the source material for last year's hit film. His books have been translated into over 15 languages and have sold over 222 million copies. The National Education Association adopted the author’s birthday as the official date of the annual National Read Across America Day initiative. Rhatigan, a dedicated fan of Seuss, dressed up as famous Seuss character the Cat in the Hat. She and her pre-K students watched a "Cat in the Hat" DVD and decorated the classroom and halls to reflect the author's whimsical creations. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9447 Fri, 01 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s county champion wrestler Chris Chambers (195-pound class), unbeaten in his 41-0 varsity career, and his wildcard teammates Jesse Dellavecchia (99) and Dennis Ferro (145) represented East Islip at the 2013 New York State high school wrestling championships. Held on Feb. 22 and 23 at the Times Union Center in Albany, the competition featured 480 student-athletes from approximately 400 New York State public high schools along with qualifiers from the New York City Public School Athletic League and the Catholic High School Athletic Association. Chambers finished in third place with a final record of 47-1 on the season. He set two school records for East Islip along the way – the most wins in a single season (47) and the most pins in a single season (25). Quarterfinal winner Dellavecchia recorded two falls to earn a shot against Hilton’s Yianni Diakomihalis in the 99-pound semifinals. Dellavecchia lost to the eventual champion and wrestled back to a fourth-place finish, while Ferro went 2-2 and was only one win away from placing. At 10th place overall, East Islip’s trio of wrestlers set a new team record in state competition. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9448 Fri, 01 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Public Library Tween Reading Club held its third meeting at the library on Feb. 14, discussing Doug TenNapel’s 2012 graphic novel “Cardboard.” “After eating special Valentine treats and other snacks provided by some parents, we took to creating something from cardboard,” said Valerie Ware, the middle school’s librarian. The club, which is open to all East Islip students in grades 6-8, offers middle schoolers the chance to engage in tween book discussions and learn about new authors and genres. Earlier selections read at the previous two club meetings were “The Strange Case of Origami Yoda" by Tom Angleberger last Oct. 11 and Janet Lee Carey’s “Dragonswood” at the Dec. 13 meeting. The next and final discussion of the year will take place on Thursday, May 2, focused on “The Giver” by Lois Lowry. Students must be registered to participate in the event, which runs from 3:30-5:30 p.m. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9425 Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Feb. 25, 2013: Fifth-graders Ally Bunde, Gia Gremaux, Nick Licata, Justine Rizzo and Jacob Tedone of Connetquot Elementary Kindergartners Jesse Hodge, Sophia Pepe and Ella Tantillo of John F. Kennedy Elementary Kindergartners Julianna Azzizzo and William Mahoney of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Fifth-grader Caroline Meehan of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9380 Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School eighth-grader Victoria Goldfader was recently honored for her exemplary volunteerism with a President’s Volunteer Service Award. The award, presented by The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards on behalf of President Barack Obama, recognizes Americans of all ages who have volunteered significant amounts of time in order to serve their communities and their country. Goldfader participated in the Spirit of Community program this year as a representative of East Islip Middle School, donating an extensive number of hours to the endeavor. Sponsored by Prudential Financial in partnership with the Reston, Va.-based National Association of Secondary School Principals, the Spirit of Community Awards program honors students across America for outstanding community service activities. More than 370,000 young persons have been considered for these awards – judged on such criteria as personal initiative creativity, effort, impact and personal growth – since the program’s 1995 inception. Principal Mark Bernard presented Goldfader with the President’s Volunteer Service Award certificate and a letter from President Obama at a celebratory breakfast held at the middle school on Feb. 26. She was accompanied by her parents, David and Nancy Goldfader, and Alise Becker-Santa, the district’s assistant superintendent for instruction and personnel. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9408 Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Fourth- and fifth-graders from three East Islip elementary schools – John F. Kennedy, Ruth C. Kinney and Timber Point – participated in the 27th annual Town of Islip Sharpshooter Basketball Contest. The Sharpshooter challenge, sponsored since 1993 by Islip’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs along with cosponsors Southside Hospital, the Islip Elks and the Town of Islip Housing Authority, encourages children in local public and private schools to improve their basketball skills while serving as an alternative to drug and alcohol abuse. Taking place during physical education classes, the competition permits each student to attempt to score as many baskets as possible in one minute, choosing from designated shooting spots on the gym floor, with each spot worth a differing point value. A pair of first-place finishers – one boy and one girl – in each grade received custom gold medals and T-shirts and advanced to a townwide final competition against other Nassau and Suffolk winners. The two runners-up were given silver medals and all of the student competitors were presented with participant's certificates. JFK’s fifth-grade winners for 2013 were Alyssa Levy and Mike Ruhrold, while Meghan Garnett and Mitchell Meyers finished first for the fourth grade. Mia Catalanotto, Sophia Nelson, Connor Parkan and Ryan Thompson finished in second place at JFK. First-place winners at RCK were fifth-graders Patrick Colleary and Julianna Longo and fourth-graders Ryan Ferremi and Lillian Scholl. Finishing in second place for fifth-graders at RCK were Sean Colleary and Christina Rooney. Fourth-grade finishers in second place were Tarynn Boesch and Michael Colon. At Timber Point, the first-place winners were fifth-graders Thomas Boyd and Sophia Florenz and fourth-graders Peyton Dattero and Jake Vandenberg. Second-place finishers for Timber Point were Christian Harty, Matt Murphy and Emma Schapfel. The Sharpshooter 2013 final competition, hosted by the local Elks Lodge Association, was held at the West Islip High School gymnasium on Feb. 23. With Islip Town Supervisor Tom Croci and Councilmen Steve Flotteron and Anthony S. Senft Jr. in attendance, two Timber Point students won second place overall: Dattero in the girls division and Boyd for the boys division. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9423 Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The first annual East Islip High School Film Festival was held Feb. 22 in the Forum. The day-long event, sponsored by James Connell’s video production and broadcast television classes as well as Harold Kench’s Technology Club, was designed to showcase student-produced film and video. The videos were designed, created and submitted by students from the entire school , and were shown throughout the festival, which included genres such as animation, TV commercials, documentaries, dramas, comedies, trailers, music videos, horror films, interviews and special effects videos. Festival patrons were able to purchase popcorn, candy and water provided by teachers Mary-Ann Coughlin and Kate Boucher, with the proceeds serving as part of a fundraiser for the junior class. “I was very pleased with the students who came to the film festival to watch our videos,” said Connell. “Not only were they courteous and respectful, but they all seemed completely engaged and appeared to have a lot of fun. I am looking forward to doing this event in the years to come.” The Film Festival bestowed prizes – Vivitar DVR 1020HD digital video recorders – on top winners in three different categories. In the Judges Award, given to the best overall film in the competition as voted by the judges (Connell, Kench, and retired television teacher Doug Hodges), John Callagy won for “The Vigilante,” a comedy with an old western film theme. The Directors Award, the festival’s best overall film as voted on by the students who contributed videos, was given to Brendon Bullard for his comedy/ short independent film “Just One Stipulation.” The Audience Award, voted on by student audience members and fans, named Christi Wilbert’s comedic reality show spoof “Hobo County” as the winner. “I really enjoyed watching all of the students involved get the opportunity to showcase their work to their peers,” said Kench. “I really enjoy watching the Oscars every year and in a way, this was almost like a small-scale school version of that event.” On Feb. 26, MSG Varsity aired a two-minute interview segment about the Film Festival as part of their "High School Life" show, which can be seen here. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8830 Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Kindergartners at Ruth C. Kinney Elementary School had fun participating in the school’s recent Rainbow Hair project. Art teacher Dana Belfiore and music teacher Malgorzata Strzelecka composed a special “Rainbow Hair” song for the children to sing during music class, and they created rainbow hair paintings in art. This vibrant cross-curricular project was designed to help the students learn about the order of the colors in a rainbow as well as how to read color words in class. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9368 Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Middle School kickline team won yet another regional Long Island Kickline Association competition on Feb. 24 at Uniondale High School. The Jr. Redmenettes’s first-place trophy in the Pom Division qualified the team for the LIKA Long Island Championships, to be held in March. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9372 Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School’s Tri-M Music Honor Society experienced the magic of Broadway while on a Feb. 6 field trip to see “Phantom of the Opera” at the iconic Majestic Theater. During their visit to Manhattan, the student-musicians also enjoyed lunch at the Hard Rock Café and went for a ride on the Toys R Us Times Square indoor Ferris wheel. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9345 Mon, 25 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT “East Islip High’s student council made the school a wonderful place to be on Valentine’s Day,” said adviser Frances Li. Songs, flowers, chocolate kisses and heart-shaped lollipops were delivered with a smile to delighted students and staff. “We took preorders for singing grams, flowers and candy the week before Valentine’s Day so that sweethearts and friends could surprise or embarrass each other with deliveries to the recipient’s homeroom, cafeteria or office,” explained Li. “People had the choice of five songs, and we even took special orders for some members.” Reactions from the entire school proved incredibly positive. “Everyone loved the mini “one-minute piece of heaven” when a duet, quartet or entire ensemble walked into a classroom to sing a short piece,” said Li. “It was very moving and enjoyable to see the recipients’ faces and hear the warm welcome of the crowd in the classrooms, cafeterias and offices.” Everyone got into the spirit, including teachers, administrators, students, custodians, clerical staff and secretaries. “Everyone enjoyed the day and it was great to see so many people smiling,” said Li. “Coworkers sent singing grams to friends, some sent multiple singing grams to one teacher to ‘lighten them up.’ The principal even got one singing gram from the student council and ended up listening to all five songs.” For the student council, many of whose members are heavily involved in the school play and music department, this was an important effort that brought joy and laughter to the entire building. “Boosting morale and making this long hard winter just a little bit more enjoyable is what student council is all about,” said Li. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9346 Mon, 25 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT School will not be in session for students in kindergarten through eighth-grade on Monday, April 29 and Monday, May 6. These two dates have been designated as Superintendent’s Conference Days for scoring New York State exams. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9348 Mon, 25 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT At the East Islip Board of Education’s Feb. 21 monthly business meeting, next year’s school calendar and the retirements of 15 district staff members were announced. Board Vice President Louis F. Raffone, heading the meeting in the absence of President Ken Cronin, introduced Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello, who announced East Islip’s 2013-2014 school calendar (attached below). “Next year’s calendar was easy to put together,” explained Finello, attributing this to the fact that the New York State Education Department had extended the school year to June 26. “This opened up extra days to get in our required 180 days of instruction and three conference days.” He also noted that Monday, Sept. 9 would be the first day of school for students. Before moving on to other business, Finello concluded his report by making the community aware of the For the Kids Foundation’s 16th annual Black Tie Gala, to be held March 9 at Land’s End in Sayville. Offering kudos to FTK, Finello praised the organization, which donated $70,000 this school year, enabling the district to restore valuable extracurricular clubs and activities that were unable to be funded in the 2012-13 budget. Alise Becker-Santa, the district’s assistant superintendent for instruction and personnel, presented the certified and noncertified personnel reports, which were approved. Among the changes were the retirements of 15 long-time staff members: East Islip High School English teacher Teresa Avila (18 years of service), East Islip High School art teacher William Melendez (30 years), East Islip High School attendance aide Barbara McCormick (24 years), East Islip High School clerk typist Susan Marek (25 years), East Islip High School physical education teacher Marguerite Gomez (27 years), East Islip High School special education teacher Susan Assa (32 years), East Islip Middle School art teachers Patricia Larado (19 years) and Mark Star (35 years), East Islip Middle School social studies teacher Sheila Stern (14 years), Connetquot Elementary music teacher Eileen Egbert (28 years), John F. Kennedy Elementary teachers Anne Conte (29 years) and Robert Machida (45 years), Ruth C. Kinney Elementary special education teacher Barbara Hill (16 years), and Timber Point Elementary teachers Rose Behar (16 years) and Cheryl Bennett (26 years). “I’ve never seen such a class of retirees – they will be missed,” said Board trustee Kim G. Phillips, while Carl Fraser, the district’s assistant superintendent for business, added that these staff members held a combined 335 years of service experience. The Board also approved a high school field trip for the Mock Trial team and adviser Patricia Lester to travel to Washington, D.C. for a competition, a resolution for an agreement with the East Islip Teachers Association’s Secretarial Chapter regarding work hour scheduling resulting from Superstorm Sandy, and a revised policy (No. 6700 – Purchasing). After being introduced by Fraser, five recommended donations were approved: supplemental materials and programs from the EJ Autism Foundation, valued at $6,000; $2,500 from FTK on behalf of former East Islip science teacher Dr. Chirakkal Krishnan, for scientific instruments; $1,300 from the Connetquot student activity fund, for folding tables and lobby chairs; $810 from the Timber Point PTA for the Arts in Education program; and several chainsaws, valued at $400, donated by a local resident for the use of the buildings and grounds staff. In the new business portion of the meeting, Becker-Santa, Fraser, Susan Kosser, the district’s assistant to the superintendent for student support services, and Eric Woellhof, the plant and facilities administrator, responded to community questions from prior board meetings. Woellhof also discussed the use of border collies to deter geese from athletic fields, while Phillips noted a meeting between Board members and Islip Town Councilman Anthony S. Senft Jr. involving a local pilot program. Lastly, the Board updated the community regarding its ongoing search for a new superintendent of schools; the recent New York Times advertisement for this position can be viewed as an attachment below. The East Islip Board of Education will hold its next monthly business meeting on Thursday, March 14 at 8 p.m. in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. This meeting will include the second budget presentation. A first budget presentation will be held on Thursday, March 7 at 7 p.m., with a third budget presentation and Budget Advisory Committee recommendation on Thursday, March 21 at 7 p.m. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9315 Fri, 22 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s Chris Chambers earned his 100th career win as a varsity wrestler during a Section XI finals match at the recent Dr. L Robert "Doc" Fallot Memorial Suffolk County Wrestling Championship. With an unbeaten 41-0 record, Chambers pancaked opponent Nick Weber of Kings Park in the 195-pound class, recording a fall at 2:32 to earn his championship. He had earlier defeated Sachem East's Cristian Nunez. The Division I competition, which took place Feb. 12 and 13 at both Hofstra University in Hempstead and Walt Whitman High School in Huntington Station, saw East Islip come in second with 138 points, just behind first-place Sachem East (156) and ahead of Rocky Point (118), Brentwood (111) and Huntington (96.5). Other East Islip wrestlers also fared well in the Fallot tournament. Eric Adon earned second place with a win over Sachem East's Anthony Pistone. Jesse Dellavecchia (99), Dennis Ferro (145) and Dan Hayden (285) all finished in third-place in their respective weight classes, with Hayden decisioning John Glenn’s Edwin Rubio, 6-3. Zak Smalls came in fifth in the 160-pound class. Chambers, Dellavecchia and Ferro (the latter two qualifying as wild cards) will be representing East Islip at New York's high school wrestling state tournament. The tournament, held at the Times Union Center in Albany on Feb. 22 and 23, will feature 480 student-athletes from approximately 400 New York State public high schools along with qualifiers from the New York City Public School Athletic League and the Catholic High School Athletic Association. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9274 Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Middle School Best Buddies Club hosted an after-school mixer with Hauppauge Middle School’s Best Buddies Club on Feb. 15. Guided by co-advisers Valerie Butler and Christine O’Connell, students from both schools made crafts, played games, ate pizza and cupcakes for dinner, and enjoyed each other’s company while making new friends. Both clubs look forward to meeting up again on June 7, when they will venture out to attend a Long Island Ducks baseball game together. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9275 Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip's For the Kids Foundation will hold its 16th annual Black Tie Gala at 7 p.m. on March 9 at Land’s End in Sayville. The organization's premier fundraising event to benefit students in the East Islip School District, the Gala (with the theme being "An Affair to Remember...") will honor Christopher Neske as Educator Advocate of the Year and Patricia Diesu as Community Advocate of the Year. For further information, contact chairperson Gina VanDenburg at 631-882-0829. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9276 Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School's student government will host a movie night at 6:45 p.m. on Friday, March 1. "Monsters, Inc." will be screened in the auditorium during this evening of fun and trivia. There will be no admission fee, but attendees need to bring in at least one "Support Our Troops" item as an entrance ticket. Requested items are on the back of the permission slip (attached below). For every three items brought in, attendees will receive a raffle ticket for a Friendly’s gift certificate. Goody bag snacks will be for sale for $1. A trivia competition will be held after the movie. Permission slips are required and no one will be admitted without one. Download a slip here or pick one up in the cafeteria starting Monday, Feb. 25. The slips must be returned to the cafeteria during lunch periods, no later than Thursday, Feb. 28. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9280 Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School junior Leah Stevens will represent both East Islip and New York State at the 2013 National Association for Music Education Eastern Division Conference, to be held April 4-7 at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford, Conn. Stevens, who won the principal flute post in New York’s All-State Symphonic Band last December, will now join the top All-Staters from 11 East Coast states and the District of Columbia to comprise an elite symphonic band. “It's such an honor and a great reward for years of hard work,” said the busy Stevens, who practices for hours every night and performs upwards of 20 times per year in recitals, orchestra and band concerts, at New York State School Music Association events, and even at nursing homes and children's hospitals. “It is satisfying to know that such a huge commitment to a passion is paying off,” she added. Stevens now studies flute with Stefan Hoskuldsson, the principal flute of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, one of the world’s most famous orchestras. “Just listening to him play is a huge inspiration to me,” Stevens said. “He has a way of giving me hope that if there is a true desire behind a dream, it can happen.” The sky is the limit for this award-winning young musician, a member of East Islip’s Class of 2014 and the school’s Tri-M Music Honor Society. “Believe it or not, there's an All-National orchestra and band that I've been invited to apply for,” she remarked, “but I think I will need some luck for that.” In the meantime, she will be giving a full recital at St. Marks Church in Islip this April to raise money for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9291 Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT At Timber Point Elementary School, art teacher Christina Spera and music teacher Kathy Carter collaborated to celebrate Chinese New Year – the Year of the Snake – with students from the first-grade classes of Vanessa DiPalma, Jennifer Uss and Josette Welton. During art class, the students created and decorated snakes while discussing the meaning and traditions of the 15-day holiday, which began this year on Feb. 10. In music class, the first-graders listened to traditional Chinese music and learned Chinese New Year songs, accompanied by instruments such as the gong and cymbals. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9310 Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education's monthly business meeting takes place tonight (Feb. 21) at 8 p.m. in the district office boardroom located at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8692 Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip varsity softball team will present the final day of its 2013 winter softball camp on Saturday, Feb. 23 from 12:30-2:30 p.m. This softball clinic for grades 2-8, sponsored by the East Islip Athletic Booster Club, costs $20 and will take place in the high school gym. Please see the attached flier for further information. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8140 Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Each month, a comprehensive art exhibit on the second floor of East Islip’s district office features one of the district’s six schools, and John F. Kennedy Elementary is the featured school for the month of February. Inspired by the season, JFK art teacher Donna Bernard selected many of the exhibit's snowy pieces to fit her “Flurry of Great Artwork” theme. The school’s kindergartners and first-graders created peace doves to replicate Pablo Picasso’s iconic 1949 bird. They also painted “Snowmen at Night” pictures in oil pastels after reading Caralyn Buehner’s titular story, illustrating what their snowmen did at night. After reading the classic Jan Brett story “The Mitten,” JFK second-grade students sewed their own mittens that were colored using either warm or cool colors. Third-graders created torn paper snow scenes depicting people participating in various fun activities in the snow, while the fourth-graders assembled snowflake compositions made with variously sized and shaped flakes in monochromatic color schemes. JFK fifth-graders painted snow scenes using watercolors and glitter, incorporating objects in the foreground, middle ground and background. The public can view the JFK art exhibit in person through the end of February from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. during regular business hours. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9260 Wed, 20 Feb 2013 14:00:00 GMT Kindergarten registration for the 2013-14 school year in the East Islip School District will take place during the week of March 4, 2013. Please view the attached document for detailed information. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9245 Wed, 20 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT On a recent Wednesday afternoon, the sound of excited voices engaged in athletic competition could be heard echoing through the East Islip Middle School gymnasium. Physical education teacher Coach Michael Montuori, who runs both the boys and girls sixth-grade intramurals, was monitoring a hotly contested European handball game. The boys, part of a group of over 100 East Islip students participating in middle school intramurals, were thrilled with the opportunity for healthy physical and social activity. “I started the intramural program seven years ago when the sixth-grade students first came over to the middle school,” explained Montuori, who has been teaching for 16 years, including eight at Timber Point Elementary prior to his tenure at the middle school. “Some of the activities we do are basketball, volleyball, European handball, dodgeball and cooperative games. We even have tournaments – we just finished the basketball tournament.” The boys program is held after school on Wednesdays, the girls program on Thursdays, both from 3-3:45 p.m in the middle school’s gym. A half-dozen eighth-graders from the school’s National Junior Honor Society serve as volunteer assistants for Montuori. “The intramural program is a great way to do physical activity and have fun at the same time,” Montuori said. Originally a victim of budget cuts, along with the middle school sports program, intramurals were restored for this school year as a result of a $70,000 donation from the For the Kids Foundation. Seventh- and eighth-grade intramurals are also run for boys, taught by Ronald Croteau (Mondays), and for girls, taught by Laura Hegna (Tuesdays). http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9254 Wed, 20 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School students Brendan Bullard, William Meehan, Justin Morena and Peter Zepf participated in the Charles Duggan Long Island Science and Engineering Fair on Feb. 12, held at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury. At this annual two-day competition for the most advanced high school projects, LISEF participants present their research to professionals in their subject areas from local universities and scientific institutions. The trio of Bullard, Morena and Zepf presented a paper titled “The Use of Calcium Hydride and De-ionized Water as an Alternate Chemical Reaction in Airbags in Order to Optimize Reaction Rate and Safety During Deployment.” Meehan’s paper was on “Optimal Species for Native Grass Growth: Implications for Biofuel Independence.” The students were guided by their chemistry teacher at East Islip, Kathleen Dinota, as well as science teachers Lisa Neri and James Marino, who Dinota cited as instrumental in helping them complete their projects. “Our fledgling research program begins in ninth grade, preparing students to conduct independent research in their junior and senior years,” said Dinota, who is actively looking to expand the program. “We are currently in our second year of research at the high school,” added Kristen Cummings, the director of the district’s math and science department. “I am delighted that these young men had the opportunity to experience LISEF and would like to congratulate them and our dedicated research teacher, Kathleen Dinota, for all of their hard work.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9229 Tue, 19 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Feb. 18, 2013: Fifth-graders Krish Khajuria, Mary Perner, Eric Peterson and Sara Spruyt of Connetquot Elementary Fifth-grader Emily Alexander of John F. Kennedy Elementary Third-graders Heather Gerardi and Victoria Gonzalez of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Kindergartner Elizabeth Ericson of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9232 Tue, 19 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Shadow Day, the third and final phase of East Islip High School’s vaunted annual mentoring program, took place during January, as 93 participating students “shadowed” their career mentors. Many of these mentors were chosen during the two prior mentoring events, October’s Catch-a-Career Breakfast and December’s Meet My Mentor Breakfast. The Mentor Me program, guided by teacher Bridget Lopiccolo with the support of teacher Paul McHugh and the East Islip/Dowling School Business Partnership’s Career Development Committee, is in its 10th year of providing East Islip’s students with outstanding insight into careers. Students interested in medicine shadowed their mentors at various hospitals and medical offices across Long Island on Jan. 10, including the Momentum at South Bay nursing home and Island Shore Physical Therapy in East Islip, South Shore Neurologic Associates in Islip, Southside Hospital in Bay Shore, and the offices of dentist Ray Mascola of Islip and optometrist Aleksandra Wianecka of Babylon. Other students enjoyed Shadow Day on Jan. 31, visiting a wide variety of local businesses and community organizations, including Cactus Salon of East Islip, The Make Up Studio in Babylon, AHRC Suffolk in Bohemia, the Ronkonkoma-based JVC Broadcasting and the Suffolk County Police 3rd Precinct in Bay Shore. “This is a tremendous program that provides students with the opportunity to look into their future and experience the day and the life of a particular career field,” said Lopiccolo, who singled out both McHugh and Beth Abesami, a parent and committee member, for praise due to their exceptional help with the program. “Shadow Day not only helps the students see what the job is like, but it can also help them see if it’s the career they thought it was,” Lopiccolo added. “Many students had a wonderful day, and some said ‘Thank goodness, I now know that’s not the career for me.’ Both instances were very helpful and really helped them decide on their career choices and post-graduate studies.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9235 Tue, 19 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Revolution Prep's practice SAT is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 23. Students who have already registered for this exam should arrive by 8:45 a.m. and report to Room 242. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9069 Tue, 19 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Faith Henderson, a fifth-grade student at Timber Point Elementary School, attended Inauguration Day in Washington, D.C. through the People to People Student Ambassador Program. She not only got to hear President Obama address the American people at the event, but was also able to meet the president and have her picture taken with him. Henderson arrived in Washington on Jan. 18 and returned to New York on Jan. 23. During her six-day stay in the nation’s capital, she had the chance to listen to several fascinating keynote speakers, including Ken Walsh, the U.S. News and World Report’s chief White House correspondent, who shared his insights on the election process; Mary Jean Eisenhower, President Eisenhower’s granddaughter, who reflected on his years in the White House; Kenneth M. Duberstein, President Ronald Reagan’s White House chief of staff; and Lt. Col. Mike Sundsted, a current Air Force One pilot. The Timber Point student toured many of the area’s national monuments; one major highlight was a private breakfast at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History on the morning of the inauguration. Henderson also took part in a service learning project that included writing a letter to a soldier currently serving overseas. Henderson’s amazing experience attending the presidential inauguration was the result of efforts by her fourth-grade teacher at Timber Point, Sheryl Beltrami, who had nominated her last year for the program. “If it wasn’t for Mrs. Beltrami, I would have never had the opportunity to go to Washington and experience history first-hand,” said Henderson. “The people I met and the experiences I had will be with me my entire life.” “Faith is so deserving of the accolades,” said Beltrami. The nomination for the People to People program was for more than one reason. “Faith had shown a propensity toward history,” she said. “She was always eager to learn and was very enthusiastic, often passing this excitement on to her peers. Faith has true leadership qualities and would often lead the discussions among her group. She was an active participant and showed a real love for school and the people around her. She had exceptional intuition about the people around her and a compassion for others that was unmatched. I knew that Faith would be an excellent representative for both the East Islip School District and the children of Long Island. I feel truly honored and lucky to have had Faith in class and know she will go on to make a wonderful difference in this world.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9207 Mon, 18 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT In order to provide an increased level of security, the East Islip Board of Education approved the installation of new audio/video surveillance systems at the main entrance door of each of the district’s six schools. This new system requires visitors to show identification prior to entering any of the buildings. After visitors step up to the camera and ring a buzzer, a school staff member will ask the visitors to identify themselves, display their identification and indicate their reasons for visiting the school. Once a visitor has been cleared for entrance, the door will be unlocked and he or she can enter the building and sign in at the front desk. This may seem to be an unnecessary inconvenience for visitors to East Islip’s schools, especially for persons who frequent these buildings, but it will provide an opportunity to identify visitors prior to entry into a building, thus providing another layer of security to protect students, faculty and staff. District security personnel suggest that visitors take their identification out before approaching a school’s main entrance to avoid having to search for it at the door. The new surveillance systems are already in place and being used at several of the district’s elementary schools. All six systems will be operational during the week of Feb. 18. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9203 Fri, 15 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT “Tis the season to be reading!” exclaimed Deborah Smith, the principal of Connetquot Elementary School, celebrating the two weeks of the Parents as Reading Partners program with her students. “Every student is reading each night and recording the amount of minutes – or possibly hours! – they read with a partner,” Smith explained at the start of PARP. “The students will be competing against other classes to see which class and grade level reads the most, and our PARP Committee has worked diligently to organize assemblies during the first two weeks of February, all associated with the love of reading.” A special performance on Feb. 1 served to kick off PARP, with fifth-grade students singing and dancing to Tom Chapin’s “Great Big Words,” arranged and choreographed by Connetquot’s beloved music teacher, Eileen “Eggy” Egbert. The song was followed by instrumentalists playing “I Can't Spell Hippopotamus” on resonator bells and glockenspiel, while a vivacious closing performance of the “Figurative Language” rap song brought down the house. A lively game of reading bingo ended the morning’s events. “The kick-off encouraged everyone to read and launched PARP into high gear,” said Smith. Connetquot art teacher Elizabeth Sullivan annually designs giant theme posters for PARP, representing each grade level; in the past few years she created posters with tropical and carnival themes. “This year the theme was ‘Mad Science’,” Sullivan said. “At our PARP committee meeting, some of us secretly decided it would be a very entertaining idea – for both students and adults – to pick one teacher from each grade level and turn them into a ‘Mad Scientist Caricature’ for their respective grade’s poster.” The resulting Mad Scientist posters – of teachers Doreen Burke Fazio (kindergarten), Rose Eger (first grade), Crystal Chiari (second grade), Wendy Frees (third grade), Nicole Hoffmann (fourth grade) and David Lake (fifth grade) – were hung in the cafeteria for all of the students to enjoy. Each young reader filled out a bubble-shaped form, designed by fifth-grade teacher Elizabeth Vann, enabling them to record their minutes of reading each night. The PTA then collected the bubble forms and displayed them on the students’ Mad Scientist, providing the children with a visual indicator of which grade levels were reading the most. As a sendoff to the PARP program, Connetquot held a special Bodacious Book Show assembly on Feb. 14, focusing on the classic tale of “Jack and the Beanstalk” and allowing the students to act out the characters. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9204 Fri, 15 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students in Patricia Lester's College Anthropology class at East Islip High School are creating reconstructions of fossil skulls as part of their study of human ancestors. “The fossil skull reconstruction project started out years ago when I realized that I needed "fossil" skulls for my class but couldn't afford realistic anatomical models,” explained Lester. “I decided to try to have students make them, and a fun and hands-on activity was born.” The project requires students to measure the brain size of their assigned hominid or early human – such as Homo neanderthalensis (Neanderthals) or Homo habilis – and accurately model the skull to fit that brain. They then have to research the skull and the hominid species, using detailed photos and measurements to complete their projects. The whole class then compares and contrasts the models. As a result, they discover how brain size and skull shape changed over time. “I keep the best ones from year to year to use as examples in my teaching,” Lester said. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9174 Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Feb. 11, 2013: Third-grader Krysta Mullen of John F. Kennedy Elementary Fourth-grader Rebecca Narvaez of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Second-grader Kiera Bryan of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9154 Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip's wrestling squad will compete today (Feb. 13) in day 2 of the Section XI, Division I playoffs at Walt Whitman High School in Huntington Station. Admission is $6. The consolation semifinals will be held at 4 p.m., the consolations at 5:30 p.m. and the finals at 7:30 p.m. The East Islip varsity boysbasketball team hosts Commack today (Feb. 13) at 4 p.m. There will be a $4 admission fee as per NYSPHSAA and Section XI. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9113 Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Eric McKenna, a soccer standout for East Islip High School since he was a freshman, signed a National Letter of Intent on Feb. 8 to play for Villanova University. His proud parents were in attendance. The senior, a center midfielder who has played the sport since age 5, will join the Wildcats this September. While at Villanova, McKenna plans to study economics, with a likely major in business. “It’s a good school and I liked the coaches,” said McKenna, who was impressed when he visited the school, founded in 1842 and located northwest of Philadelphia, Pa. “The Villanova campus is beautiful.” McKenna cites the time he helped beat the No. 1 team, Half Hollow Hills West, two years ago as a particular highlight of his career at East Islip. That EI team also featured his older brother, Keith, a member of East Islip’s Class of 2011 now attending SUNY Stony Brook. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9123 Tue, 12 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT As part of a celebration of uniqueness and cultural diversity, Jessie Ferraro's second-grade class at John F. Kennedy Elementary recently celebrated Chinese New Year, part of the class’ ongoing efforts to learn about respecting others and being kind to one another as citizens The students read literature about the celebration and learned facts about reading the Chinese zodiac. They discovered that 2013 is the Year of the Snake, and examined which character traits are traditionally believed by the Chinese to be true of those born in a particular lunar year. The second-graders experienced the customs and traditions of the event, including foods and activities that were shared in class, the printed characters used for numbers and words, and the spoken language (including “thank you” and “you're welcome” in Chinese), as well as an appreciation of Chinese music and dance presented by the Barbera family. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9126 Tue, 12 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT In Patricia Larado's art classroom at East Islip Middle School, the career development class recently created snow characters out of recycled empty cardboard boxes, buttons and old plastic tops. Said Larado, “Painting was more fun than shoveling!” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9127 Tue, 12 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High Schools boys lacrosse program is presenting a special night of entertainment, "The Dr. Mike Comedy Hypnosis Show," on Feb. 22. For details, please see the attached flier. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9128 Tue, 12 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Due to winter storm Nemo, the middle school musical, "The Music Man Jr.," has been postponed. Tickets for Friday, Feb. 8 will be honored on Tuesday, Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. Tickets for Saturday, Feb. 9 will be honored on Wednesday, Feb. 13 at 8 p.m. Cast and crew should report at 5 p.m. both evenings. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9074 Tue, 12 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The All-District rehearsals scheduled for today (Monday, Feb. 11) have been moved to Tuesday, Feb. 19 at their regularly scheduled times in the middle school. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9087 Mon, 11 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Schools District's facilities department has been working diligently over the weekend to clear the snow from the schools' parking lots and sidewalks. However, many roads in the community are still not clear, with narrow openings and piles of snow on corners. The district is concerned about its students getting to school safely, especially standing at bus stops and waiting for the buses on Monday morning. In light of this information and the forecast for sleet and freezing rain on Monday morning, all East Islip schools will be closed on Monday, Feb. 11. The middle school musical has been rescheduled for Tuesday (Feb. 12) and Wednesday (Feb. 13) evenings, both at 7 p.m. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9084 Sun, 10 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Athletic Booster Club's Saturday morning basketball program (grades 2-7) has been canceled for Feb. 9 due to impending inclement weather. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9075 Fri, 08 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s Fashion Class held a Project Runway Recycled Hat Challenge show in the school’s Forum on Jan. 31, with awards going to both a judges’ winner and a people's choice. For the Recycled Hat Challenge, students had to choose one material to create a hat, and were then allowed to use one adhesive to put it together. Their creativity was unleashed with a wild variety of materials, including plastic bags, Solo cups, toilet paper rolls, packing peanuts, yarn, old t-shirts, scarves, Victoria's Secret bags, tissue paper, dead basil branches, jeans, cupcake holders and tissue paper. The Project Runway winner selected by the three judges – Director of Art and Music Stephen Guarino and art teachers William Melendez and Joy Taylor – was Kimberly Moreno. Two art classes attended the event to vote for the people’s choice award, which went to Alexis Buser. Each winning designer received a $25 gift card to Macy’s and a red pin to wear for National Wear Red Day on Feb. 1; both wore red during the competition to show their support in the fight against heart disease in women. The winning models won pins as well. “Each of the designers came up with wonderful ideas and the show was definitely a success,” said art teacher Heather Toomey. “I am so proud of the Fashion Class. Not only did they create wonderful works of art, but they put on a fantastic show. I look forward to more Project Runway Challenges with this class.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9079 Fri, 08 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District is canceling all after-school and evening activities after 5 p.m. today (Feb. 8) with the exception of the after-school child care program, which runs until 6 p.m. All activities for tomorrow (Saturday, Feb. 9) are canceled. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9073 Fri, 08 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Kirby Pereira, a medical technologist for Catholic Health Services, recently visited East Islip High School to speak with the school’s Medical and Health Technology Career Academy, also known as “CAM.” Pereira, a graduate of SUNY Stony Brook’s School of Health Technology and Management who previously worked for Icon Central Laboratories, was recently appointed as an American Society for Clinical Pathology Career Ambassador. In her talk, she discussed careers in medical laboratory science, a field of great interest to many CAM students. “This is a four-year degree offered through Stony Brook that allows graduates to obtain jobs in fields that involve tissue examination, disease diagnosis and crime scene analysis,” said East Islip science teacher Lisa Neri. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9052 Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students in Melissa Love’s and Leslie Davis' second-grade classrooms at Connetquot Elementary School recently studied sound and how it is produced by various musical instruments. As a final project, they designed and built their own instruments out of various household materials. The second-graders then shared their projects with their peers. “The students were very interested in this unit on energy and sound and loved creating and sharing their instruments," said Love. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9054 Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School boys bowling team won the Suffolk County tournament and has qualified to compete in the NYSPHSAA State Tournament on March 2. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9025 Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School student Kayla Roundsman is a jack of all trades on the soccer field, playing at midfield, forward and defense while serving as varsity team captain, and she will be bringing her multifaceted athletic talents to the Loyola University Maryland program next fall. The senior, who has been playing soccer since age 7 and joined East Islip’s varsity squad as a freshman in 2010, signed a National Letter of Intent on Feb. 6 to don the grey and green of Loyola, accompanied by her proud parents. “I think it’s a good school for me to play at a high level,” she said after visiting Loyola, a private college in Baltimore, Md., established in 1856. “The girls on the team were nice and I loved the school. It’s a good fit for me.” Roundsman cited her soccer coach at East Islip, Julie Susskind, as a major force in her success. “My coach helped me a lot,” she said. “She pushed me and made sure I worked hard every practice.” When not playing on the Greyhounds, Roundsman will be pursuing a degree in either education or business – or both. She hasn’t yet decided on her major. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9034 Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Feb. 4, 2013: Fourth-graders John Calabrese, Kelli Karlin, Pasqually Napolitano, Nashwan Uppal and Joseph Zagari of Connetquot Elementary Fourth-grader Thomas Franzese of John F. Kennedy Elementary Fifth-graders Lauren Crawford and Hailey Imhof of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Fourth-grader Noelle Naccarato of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9015 Tue, 05 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School Assistant Principal Christian Seifert was honored as an Administrator of the Year by the Western Suffolk Counselors’ Association at the group’s annual luncheon on Jan. 31. The ceremony, held in the Hunt Room at Dowling College’s Fortunoff Hall in Oakdale, was sponsored by the Island Drafting and Technical Institute of Amityville. Seifert was one of three administrators honored with the award, the others being North Babylon High School Assistant Principal Michael Scottaline and Dr. Mary DeRose, the interim principal of Amityville Memorial High School. Dr. Kate Rowe, the president of WSCA, told the honorees, “This recognition represents a lot of hard work, intelligence and dedication to the schools you work for.” After a speech by Dr. Clyde Payne, the dean of Dowling's School of Education, the honorees were introduced. Seifert’s award was sponsored by Peter Cabral, a guidance counselor at the middle school. “Chris has demonstrated integrity, dedication and compassion to the students and parents of East Islip,” said Cabral, praising Seifert’s outstanding leadership abilities. “Every morning and afternoon you can find him in the bus loop welcoming students. He works closely with all the guidance counselors and his level of enthusiasm is incredible. He has earned the respect of our guidance department, faculty and students.” Noting that Seifert speaks three languages including Spanish, Cabral added, “He is our go-to guy in difficult situations. He makes Spanish-speaking families feel at ease.” Taking to the podium to accept his award, Seifert touched on themes of maturity and empathy, and remarked, “This is a day and age where guidance is more important than ever. Our counselors are there as a first line of support and I am lucky to work with an expert, dedicated group of counselors at East Islip Middle School.” East Islip administrators in attendance at the event included John J. Finello, the district’s superintendent; Alise Becker-Santa, the assistant superintendent for instruction and personnel; principals Mark Bernard (East Islip Middle School), Bill Brennen (East Islip High School), Aileen O’Rourke (John F. Kennedy Elementary) and Deborah Smith (Connetquot Elementary); and Stephen Restivo, the district’s athletic director. Seifert, in his fifth year at East Islip, is a graduate of St. John's University, where he obtained bachelor’s and master’s degrees in government and politics. He received his supervisory credentials from Queen's College. Prior to coming to East Islip, Seifert served for two years as an assistant principal at a New York City high school and worked for nine years as a New York City middle school teacher. He is an active member of his local parish church and participates in community and school organizations such as the National Junior Honor Society and the For the Kids Foundation. The Western Suffolk Counselors' Association is the professional organization in the western part of Suffolk County for individuals in the counseling field, including school counselors. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9017 Tue, 05 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Julianna Longo, a fifth-grader at Ruth C. Kinney Elementary, has been selected as a Suffolk County-level winner in the musical composition category in this year’s PTA Reflections contest. For her prize-winning entry on the theme of “The Magic of a Moment,” Longo wrote two very descriptive paragraphs about a magical moment that she experienced while at the beach with her family and friends, reflected in “Shining Bright,” her musical composition for the viola. “Julianna is a very talented and dedicated young musician,” said her orchestra teacher, Angela Fetcho. “She did a great job making every note sound like an event from her day at the beach, and described each measure of her music in well-written paragraphs. The description allows the listener to understand which notes and dynamics represent all of the events from her magical day.” Longo, who has been studying viola with Fetcho since third grade, will now move on to the state level of the Reflections competition, and has been invited to the PTA Reflections showcase on April 6, where she will be honored for her excellence in musical composition for grades 3-5. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8998 Mon, 04 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Melding art and science, students in East Islip High School art teacher Donna Nelson’s Studio in Art classroom recently explored the visual representations of a glucose molecule in "The Art of Science." Using spheres and connecting columns, each student interpreted the molecular structure differently to create their own original composition. To make the structures appear three-dimensional, they added shading from a light source they chose independently. “By incorporating marker and colored pencil to render their spheres of oxygen, carbon and hydrogen, my students demonstrated their understanding of the way in which a sphere or column might appear when light is cast on it; creating highlights and shadows,” explained Nelson. The young artists were also asked to select either warm or cool colors to render the elements in their molecule, choosing a different color to consistently represent each of the three elements in their structure. They rendered their connecting columns using various techniques such as tonal shading, stippling, scumbling, hatching and cross-hatching. The Art of Science artwork display was curated and selected on a volunteer basis by junior Anthony Mattera, a member of the Studio in Art class. Nelson believes that this project’s cooperation between East Islip’s art and science departments is a fine example of how the high school is working to translate the state’s Common Core State Standards for education into specific activities for its students. “I’d like to offer a special thanks to our science department,” said Nelson. “Their interdisciplinary efforts really helped students make connections.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=9001 Mon, 04 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT “There was a lot of football excitement in RCK today,” declared Danielle Naccarato, the principal of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary. Students from kindergarten through fifth grade celebrated the coming of Super Bowl Sunday in the school’s gymnasium on Feb. 1. RCK physical education instructors Bonnie Rabin and Bernie Ruhlig – joined by kindergarten teacher and football fan Karin Hipp and LIU Post’s Vincent Hamel – set up various football-related activities for students to participate in. The youngsters enjoyed taking on the roles of quarterback, running back and kicker; learned some fun facts about the Super Bowl and the two competing teams and cities; and had the opportunity to vote for either the San Francisco 49’ers or Baltimore Ravens to take home the trophy on Feb. 3. Many of the students were dressed for the occasion, as it was “Football Friday” and the children had been encouraged to show their school spirit by wearing their favorite football attire. “Ms. Rabin and Mr. Ruhlig did a great job and the students really enjoyed themselves,” said Naccarato. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8976 Fri, 01 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The eighth annual Key Club Talent Show at East Islip High School on Jan. 17 proved a great success, demonstrating the talents of the student body and earning proceeds of $1,500 to benefit a local student battling illness. Emcees Bridget Cavanaugh and Sarah Schreiner introduced a host of student performers, including Rachel Baio, Paul Brett, Matt Carillo, Emily Cassar, Jackie DeRosa, Destiny DeSimone, Paige Epstein, Emily Fackelman, Jessica Falci, Dalton Jabs, Joe Janover, Mustafa Kemal, Heather Kerney, Sarah Knoth, Steve Lorofice, Bruce Morrow, Elizabeth O'Connor, Nick Santangelo, Pat Valoy and Noelia Vazquez, as well as the bands At the Corner of Who & What and Flying Monkeys from Space. The event also featured a charitable endeavor by Key Club adviser and social studies teacher Dan Falkman, who shaved off his ponytail for a cause as the show’s grand finale. Falkman, who has been a fixture for a decade now at East Islip High School and currently teaches the United States History & Government and Participation in Government courses, is known for his love of Long Island history, for his proclivity for Starbucks and for his long hair, now shorn. The Key Club at East Islip has raised thousands of dollars over the years for charitable causes. Said Falkman, “Over the years, our various community-based fundraisers and functions have included reading books for the local elementary schools during the holidays, distributing candy canes with Santa, and the Wounded Warrior project, which gives students an opportunity to write letters to soldiers overseas.” The Talent Show extravaganza is a big part of this fundraising tradition, having served to obtain donations for St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, the Red Cross and even various members of the East Islip community who are facing financial crisis due to mounting medical bills. This year’s show had a very special recipient. “Our Key Club is always looking for ways to help in our community as well as looking at problems that face our world,” explained Falkman. “Senior Nicole Corapi, the club’s president, has coordinated programs and activities for the Key Club this year, including our recent Movember event. We raised a few hundred dollars for men’s cancer initiatives with Movember, and I figured that if shaving my mustache could raise a few hundred, why not go the next step? This year’s show was memorable because we were raising money for a local young girl, Taylor Ryan, as well as donating my ponytail to Locks of Love.” Photos by Harold Kench http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8977 Fri, 01 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT In an effort to reduce paper consumption and mailing costs, and to encourage ongoing open and regular communication with parents, the following information will now be available to parents and guardians in electronic format only: Elementary: report cards for students in grades 1-5 Secondary: report cards, progress reports and student schedules Many East Islip families have already established accounts and are making use of the district's Parent Portal to access their child’s academic reports as well as other important information. Parents should have received a letter at the end of December (for middle and high school parents) or during parent teacher conferences in November (for elementary school parents) with their personal activation key and instructions on creating an account. Parents who do not have copies of their letter and need one should contact their child’s school at the number listed below to request another copy of the letter to be mailed. Connetquot Elementary: Janet Naccarato – 631-581-1778 John F. Kennedy Elementary: Diane Marx – 631-581-1608 Ruth C. Kinney Elementary: Carol Bartlett – 631-581-1862 Timber Point Elementary: Joan Bullis – 631-581-1887 East Islip Middle School: Terri Caron – 631-224-2174 East Islip High School: Phyllis Favuzzi – 631-224-2133 The East Islip School District encourages parents to make use of the Parent Portal by utilizing their accounts or signing up as soon as possible. This will be an important tool for parents to gain information about their child’s progress in school. The district welcomes this additional opportunity to communicate with parents of its students and hopes parents will take full advantage of the service. Parents who do not have Internet access can contact their child’s school to opt out of paperless access. Any questions regarding the use of the Parent Portal can be sent via email to parentportal@eischools.org. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8761 Thu, 31 Jan 2013 01:00:00 GMT This year’s theme for Timber Point Elementary School’s Parents as Reading Partners program was “Wrangle up a Good Book”. Known as PARP, this two-week PTA program encourages families to read together. Timber Point students enjoyed the Western theme throughout the Jan. 11-25 event by participating in a book swap, learning cowboy trivia, dressing in their favorite Western gear and other fun activities. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8949 Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Connetquot Elementary students are about to embark on the school’s Parents as Reading Partners program, and to kick things off, Connetquot’s PTA sponsored a schoolwide book fair in conjunction with the Scholastic Book Company. Excited readers and their parents perused the multiple selections covering a variety of genres including informational texts, mysteries, science fiction, biographies, sports selections, fairy tales and short stories, to name a few. A pleased Deborah Smith, Connetquot’s principal, remarked, “It was wonderful to see so many students enthusiastically choosing their books. PARP is a great program to foster the joy of reading and sharing stories with someone special.” “The children at Connetquot always look forward to the annual book fairs and they were not disappointed,” added Connetquot PTA President Cindy McCaffery. “Everyone found lots of wonderful titles to use for their PARP reading books over the next few weeks. It's so wonderful to see the children so excited about reading!” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8950 Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Pupil Personnel Department will present a special workshop on Feb. 6 for parents of children with autism. Lorianne Hoenninger and Tracy Peterson will be the featured speakers. "High Techspectations - Using Technology to Build Social and Communication Skills" takes place from 7-9 p.m. in the district office board room at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace, and includes light refreshments. Additional seminars will follow on March 13 ("Getting Out There: Making Community Trips and Family Outings Better for Your Child") and May 15 ("How I Spend My Summer Vacation: Structuring the Summertime for Children with Disabilities"). http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8938 Wed, 30 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School athlete Dan Hayden reached a personal milestone last weekend, earning his 100th career win as a varsity wrestler. The victory, by forfeit at 285 pounds, came during the team's Jan. 25 home match against West Babylon. East Islip won, 70-12, clinching the Suffolk League IV title. Photo by Diane Kelly http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8923 Tue, 29 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Jan. 28, 2013: Second-graders Allison Benowitz, Joshua DiPrima-Bien, Keira McCaffery and Angelina Sekela of Connetquot Elementary Second-grader Kyle Gala of John F. Kennedy Elementary First-graders James Laskowski and Steven Nogaro of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary First-grader Avery Simmons of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8927 Tue, 29 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The date of the East Islip Board of Education's next monthly business meeting, previously Feb. 14, has been changed to Thursday, Feb. 21. The meeting will be held at 8 p.m. in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8929 Tue, 29 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Justin Ovalle, a 2011 graduate of East Islip High School and current sophomore at New York University, recently penned an essay on his experiences in East Islip's International Business Globalization Career Academy, viewable by clicking the attachment. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8930 Tue, 29 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Connetquot Elementary School students in special education teacher Crystal Ann Chiari’s classroom sent letters to President Obama back in November, explaining how they wanted to help keep America safe and detailing their ideas on how to improve the country. Each student wrote their own letter describing what he or she would do. Chiari’s class received a response from the president last week, thanking them for their letters. Obama’s letter included photographs of him, his dog and the White House. “The students loved that the president recognized their letters and wrote them back,” said Chiari. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8906 Mon, 28 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Ruth C. Kinney Elementary School welcomed Prismatic Magic’s Black History Laser Tribute Show on Jan. 25. The students were enthralled by the moving retrospective showcasing the cultural contributions of legendary African-American musicians along with special tributes to Pres. Obama, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Tuskegee Airmen. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8907 Mon, 28 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Screenings and physicals for the East Islip High School 2013 spring sports season will be held on Feb. 12 (screenings) and Feb. 13 (physicals). See the attachment for more details. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8869 Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School National Honor Society will hold its annual Applebee's Flapjack Fundraiser breakfast on May 19. Please see the attached flier for more information. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8870 Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT In a tale that recalls the fondly remembered 1970s TV show “Welcome Back, Kotter,” East Islip High School alumnus Eric Treulich returned to his old school this past semester as a student teacher under English instructor Greg Kguloian, bringing his love of education to current East Islip students in the same place where he had once sat as a student himself. Treulich, a member of East Islip’s Class of 2009, was known for his avid participation in four school musicals and his three-year membership in the school’s honors choir. He earned a $10,000 per year scholarship to Dowling College, where he is currently a senior. He plans to leave Dowling with a dual certification in special education and English, and is considering pursuing a master's degree in instructional technology after graduation. The recent stint at East Islip was his second of two part-time student teaching sessions, both consisting of nine hours a week for one semester. He said, “I requested to be student-taught under Mr. Kguloian this past semester because he was my English teacher in 10th grade, and I remembered what a great teacher he is and wanted to learn from him.” “Eric is the sixth student teacher that I've worked with,” explained Kguloian. “When I first started teaching in 1989, my cooperating teacher told me to take on two student teachers in my tenure as an educator. I figured I should stop after working with five student teachers, but when the call went out to help a former EI student, I took on ‘just one more.’” Deidre Tacke, a special education teacher at East Islip High, recently worked with Treulich during team-teaching sessions in Kguloian’s freshman English classroom. She recalled his positive influence on the teens in the class, remarking, “Under Mr. Treulich's guidance, the students participated in and enjoyed re-enacting ‘Romeo and Juliet.’ Even the more reluctant students were engaged and having fun, which led to a better understanding of a more difficult assignment for many.” “Eric's next step is to finish his student teaching experience before he can be certified by New York State,” added Kguloian. “He is scheduled to finish his observations and practice his craft at Central Islip High School this spring. After that, he hopes to get a job as a professional educator.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8874 Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Middle School Featured Artists for January 2013 are sixth-grader Jolie Lenox with “King Tutankhamun Mask” and eighth-grader Matti Interdonati with “Skeleton Drawing.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8877 Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Sophomore Marykate Anderson and freshman Atakan Kemal, two highly talented students in East Islip High School teacher Heather Toomey’s Studio Art class, were chosen to have their work displayed in Albany at the 23rd annual New York State Art Teachers Association Legislative Exhibit in March. The NYSATA Legislative Exhibit, co-sponsored by the New York State Alliance for the Arts in Education, showcases New York’s art programs and gives young student-artists the opportunity to receive statewide recognition. Organized by NYSATA in collaboration with New York State United Teachers and state legislators, the student art exhibit is held each spring in the Legislative Well in the Capitol Building in Albany. Legislators from across New York State celebrate the artistic accomplishments of their aspiring artist constituents at an opening reception for students, parents and teachers, which will take place this year on March 6. The artwork will remain on display from March 4-8. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8853 Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Teacher Jen Giordano’s fifth-grade class at Timber Point Elementary has been working with Newsday’s Kidsday program this year, and the young writers were featured in several student-created articles published by the newspaper. Four of Giordano’s students – Niamh Amitrano, Miranda D'Amico, Kayleigh Marquart and Ryan Polidoro – were thrilled to travel to Manhattan to interview Olivia Holt, the star of Disney XD's show “Kickin It” and last October’s Disney film “Girl vs. Monster,” which the entire class previewed in their classroom before its actual release date. In December, a few other East Islip students – Sofia Ferreza, Kennedy Keenan and Kaitlyn Tergesen – were given the opportunity to preview the comedy film “Parental Guidance” in the ABC Studios executive screening room and meet with the film’s young star, Bailee Madison. Madison is known for her roles in films like “Bridge to Terabithia,” “Just Go with It,” “Letters to God” and “Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark,” and portrayed the young Snow White in the TV series “Once Upon a Time.” “Bailee has worked with everyone from Billy Crystal to Adam Sandler to Katie Holmes, and she was very exciting to meet,” remarked Giordano. Timber Point’s budding journalists also reviewed books as well as Xbox, PlayStation and Playstation Vita video games for Kidsday. “What is most important is that they got to write authentic text about things they know and love,” Giordano said. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8856 Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School's student government and National Junior Honor Society teamed up to conduct a Snowflake Creation Day on Jan. 9 to show their support for Sandy Hook Elementary School students in Connecticut. During the community service event in the school’s cafeteria, East Islip students created a total of 367 unique paper snowflakes as gifts for the children of Sandy Hook, to decorate their new building. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8826 Wed, 23 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Five students representing East Islip High School’s high-flying Math Team – junior William Meehan and seniors Allison Casey, Terence McHugh, Julia O’Connor and Peter Zepf – participated in the full-day Suffolk County Mathematics Teachers Association Annual Tournament on Jan. 4, held at Suffolk Community College in Selden. In individual competition, Meehan earned a perfect score in the 11th-grade free response questions (15 out of 15) as well as a perfect score in the general multiple choice questions (10 out of 10), receiving an award for this superlative accomplishment. “The five people on our team for this tournament are the highest East Islip scorers in the monthly Math League competitions held throughout the school year,” noted teacher Maria Burns, the adviser to the club. The full Math Team squad at East Islip, currently in sixth place in the county, includes 20 members. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8827 Wed, 23 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The undefeated East Islip Middle School kickline team took first place in their second Long Island Kickline Association regional competition on Jan. 20. The team and coaches Danielle Gick and Christina Inghingolo will prepare for the Pom Division championships after a final regional event. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8811 Tue, 22 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students in two East Islip classes – James Connell’s graphic communications class and Joan Dlouhy’s journalism class –welcomed a special guest speaker, professional graphic design artist Jackie Schreiner, on Dec. 14. Schreiner, an East Islip alumna, has worked in the field of graphic design for over 20 years. Along with her wealth of knowledge on the topic, she brought along samples of some of her work, showed the students her Eye on Design website, and helped answer their questions about the graphic design field. “Mrs. Schreiner provided valuable insight into the profession that only someone with her experience and knowledge could truly share,” said Connell. “It was truly great speaking with the students about graphic design and the careers within it,” said Schreiner, whose daughter Sarah is East Islip’s senior class president and editor-in-chief of the school newspaper, The Broadcaster. “To inspire future designers to follow their creative minds and spirit is an amazing opportunity.” she continued. “Nothing is more fulfilling than doing what you love.” “Each year I try to get professionals from the various technology education disciplines to come in and be guest speakers for my students,” explained Connell, a technology teacher at the school. His course in graphic communications allows students to explore the visual graphics world of the computer, studying such concepts as image editing, vector drawing, desktop publishing and presentation graphics. The students gain hands-on experience with design, layout, graphics, scanning and digital photography. Connell introduces them to the capabilities and functions of Adobe’s three powerful desktop publishing programs, Illustrator CS4, InDesign and Photoshop, and with these software programs, his students learn to create functional documents such as brochures, flyers, business advertisements, posters, greeting cards and restored photographs. “This has always been a great way to give the students some perspective on what they are learning in my classes,” Connell added. “With experience comes knowledge, and Mrs. Schreiner provided them with both.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8812 Tue, 22 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Jan. 21, 2013: Third-graders Michael Baldino, Johanna Donohue, Sarah Parker, Nicole Rosenberg and Sara Waller ofConnetquot Elementary First-grader Shannon O’Rourke of John F. Kennedy Elementary Fifth-graders Jake Barsch, Hanna Calarco, Faith Henderson and Nicole Serino of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8813 Tue, 22 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT In support of Cancer Awareness Day and the American Cancer Society, the middle school's student government will be selling Valentine Candy Grams during lunch periods from Feb. 4-8. See the attached flier for more information. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8819 Mon, 21 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT It was Purple Day on Jan. 15 for East Islip High School’s Toddler High. The long-running child development program’s agenda for January has focused on colors and shapes, with a different color of the day for each meeting. Teacher Kelly Schwender, the toddlers and the purple-clad juniors and seniors from the high school met to work that day on a special purple octopus project. During the purple project, the program’s students and staff were treated to a special visit from Elizabeth Hashagen, co-anchor of News 12 Long Island's Morning Show, who interviewed the participants. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8767 Fri, 18 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip’s wrestling team grappled its way to five title victories at the 26th annual Rocky Gilmore Classic wrestling tournament on Jan. 5, setting a school record with 10 finalists and 21 student-athletes placing in the tournament. Top-seeded Chris Chambers was named Most Outstanding Wrestler and scored the most pins in the least time, notching three pins in 2:12. Winning titles for EI were sophomore Jesse Dellavecchia (22-0) at 99 pounds (the No. 1 ranked wrestler in Suffolk County), Dennis Ferro (18-2), Erik Adon (21-1), Chambers (21-0, 14 pins) and Dan Hayden (19-1) at 285 pounds. The Rocky Gilmore Classic is named in honor of the late Rocky Gilmore, who served for 20 years as an educator and wrestling program coach in the East Islip School District before he became the school’s head wrestling coach in November 1986. Gilmore died suddenly at age 42 in January 1987. Photos by Diane Kelly http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8773 Fri, 18 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Middle School PTA is sponsoring a Game Show Night on Thursday, Jan. 24 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in the middle school gym. Tickets are $7 each or $20 per family. For event details, ticket purchase information and a permission slip, please see the attached flier. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8759 Fri, 18 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Michael Carolan made a successful title defense as East Islip Middle School’s spelling champion, achieving victory in the school’s annual spelling bee for the second year in a row. The eighth-grader won the Jan. 11 event with the word “baccalaureate,” edging out 43 other participants in 10 rounds of competition. Sixth-grader Victoria Keenan was the runner-up. The spelling bee was coordinated by seventh-grade English teacher Ann Mingione, who served as a judge along with fellow teacher Brian Deedy. A third teacher, Michelle Wagner, was the event’s announcer. “It was wonderful to have a full audience at this year's spelling bee,” said Mingione. “Students from many classes joined in and were excited to watch their peers compete.” “The spelling bee was suspenseful and exciting until the end,” added Wagner. “We commend all of our brave and talented participants...every one is a winner!” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8744 Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students in Heather Toomey's Studio Art class at East Islip High School recently took on “hands-on” project. They began by choosing a word and drawing contour lines of their hands representing their selected word in American Sign Language. Students used an analogous color scheme for their oil pastel background. “Hands can be very challenging to draw,” remarked Toomey. “The Studio Art class did an excellent job completing this project.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8745 Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School students in technology teachers James Connell’s and Hal Kench’s classes got a firsthand lesson on what being a news reporter in the field of broadcast television is like on Dec. 7. MSG Varsity media trainer Amanda Pugliese visited their video production/ broadcast television and graphic communication classrooms for a presentation on the do’s and don’ts of video news reporting. As a part of its ongoing initiative to help support local high school video programs, Cablevision’s MSG Varsity program offers free instruction from its real-world media specialists to help with classroom instruction. The East Islip High School Technology Club and technology department first teamed up with MSG Varsity last year to assist in showcasing East Islip School District events. MSG Varsity is a first-of-its-kind initiative comprised of a full-time television network (viewable only via Cablevision at channel 614), a comprehensive online destination and a groundbreaking interactive service dedicated to high school sports, academics and activities throughout the tri-state area. “I helped get this program started last year because I have a true passion for film and video editing,” explained Kench. “With the help of MSG Varsity, our programs have been raised to new heights.” MSG Varsity kickstarted East Islip’s program with donations of a high-definition video camera, still camera, assorted microphones and seed money to purchase two iMac computers for video editing. Since then, East Islip students have submitted over 100 videos, 100 photo galleries and 150 articles to MSG Varsity’s East Islip High School page on MSG Varsity. The school’s Technology Club to date has received over $5000 in startup funds and also earned over $1000 in scholarship money that was awarded in June 2012 to East Islip alum David Tekverk, who is currently studying film and video at SUNY Oswego. “When Mr. Kench got this program started last year, I had no idea how much it would benefit the entire technology department,” said Connell. “The equipment purchased through this program has helped raise the level of multiple technology classes and has given us the opportunity to expand on what we are teaching our students.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8725 Wed, 16 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT In an effort to reduce paper consumption and mailing costs, and to encourage ongoing open and regular communication with parents, all future progress reports and report cards will be available to parents and guardians in electronic format only via the Parent Portal. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8688 Wed, 16 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Please see the attachment below for the testing and bus schedule for Friday, Jan. 25, including Regents, RCT and AP exam times. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8704 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School senior Mariah Cullen has only been playing lacrosse for three years, but the relative newcomer has proven to be a majorly talented late-bloomer. The hard-playing defenseman signed a National Letter of Intent to play lacrosse for Albright, a private college in Reading, Penn. founded in 1856. Cullen, a three-sport athlete who also participates in varsity basketball and volleyball, cites going to the Suffolk County lacrosse final four last season as a personal high point. “It was the distance and the coach,” said Cullen, explaining her reasons for choosing Albright, whose new Lions lacrosse program became a varsity-level sport in 2011. She also was impressed by the college's campus, which she sized up as “nice and not too big.” Cullen is as yet undecided on a major, but she is certain she’ll fit in just fine on the Lions defensive squad. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8707 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Jan. 14, 2013: Kindergartners Lucas Aparicio, Abigail Haworth, Keira Higgins, Annabella Maciura, Dylan Paulus and Charlotte Williams of Connetquot Elementary Fifth-graders Bryanna Carrara and Rachel Schlesinger of John F. Kennedy Elementary Second-graders Branden Levick and Ryan Puglisi of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Second-graders Ryan Renganeschi and Sara Simonetti of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8723 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT In an effort to reduce paper consumption and mailing costs, and to encourage ongoing open and regular communication with parents, all future progress reports and report cards will be available to parents and guardians in electronic format only. On Tuesday, Jan. 15, the district will hold another series of Parent Portal workshops for parents and guardians of East Islip Middle School and East Islip High School students to assist them with setting up accounts and navigating the Parent Portal. The new Portal account presentation takes place at 6 p.m., while a refresher presentation for existing account holders will be at 6:45 p.m. Both will be held in the middle school auditorium. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8687 Mon, 14 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The fifth edition of East Islip High School English teacher Greg Kguloian’s Lit.2 Life cross-curriculum lessons revolved around the theme of “related and connected,” bridging both personal and American history with literature. In Lit.2 Life 5.0, 10th-graders studying 1942 and the World War II era – and reading such period works as John Knowles’ “A Separate Peace” and Elie Wiesel’s “Night” – were shown “American Memory: The U.S. Home Front,” a tactile display of numerous period artifacts from Kguloian’s family, as well as a mini-movie about the teacher’s old family home upstate. The short film, “The Slow Smokeless Burning of Decay," was used as an allusion to the Robert Frost poem “The Wood-Pile,” asking students the question, “Can we keep the memory of who we were and the lessons we have learned alive into the future?” The haunting imagery of the now-decrepit home – it was in Kguloian’s family from the 1930s to the 1990s – slowly falling apart was accompanied by a quote from Talking Heads leader David Byrne, “Things fall apart; it's scientific.” “I ask the students to think about that Byrne statement,” Kguloian said, “using it to generate thoughtful discussion and discourse with my students as to whether or not that sentiment is really true.” For many of the students, seeing and touching actual mementos from the period of “A Separate Peace” and “Night” proved fascinating. “Those two novels have a setting that touches the year 1942,” said Kguloian, “and the American Memory presentation’s actual family artifacts, movies and stories helped bring the literature we read together to life for the students in my class. I try and enrich my lessons to include extra efforts, which make the literature and time periods that we research, report and react to ‘related and connected.’ The students seem to love it and they get a richer academic experience, true appreciation, and deeper understanding about the humanity that unites us all.” Ninth-graders currently learning about 1935 and the Great Depression era were presented with Lit.2 Life 5.5, featuring student performances recreating the 1935 Tom Robinson trial from the book they were covering, “To Kill a Mockingbird.” “This was used primarily to help the students get a relatable understanding of what the book’s main character and narrator, Scout, described as her family's ‘homestead,’ known in the novel as Finche's Landing,” remarked Kguloian. They also viewed another mini-movie that featured a New York State Education Department sign next door to Kguloian’s family homestead. “I made the mini-movie to inspire my pupils to learn about ‘related’ connections in their own families by sharing the connection for my family and the year 1935, the year of the Tom Robinson trial.” Both lessons were timed to facilitate interaction and discussion between the students and their own families, particularly with older relatives. “The kids read, researched and created their own projects about these time periods and then, when their families got together for the holidays, my pupils had some interesting figurative fodder to chew on with their relatives when the inevitable question comes up, ‘So, what have you been learning about in school?’ The older generations appreciated the related connections that I strive to build among my students in our lessons, and it afforded the current generation the opportunity to find common ground via literature and real life.” In an overview of two connected lesson plans, Kguloian said, “Both sophomores and freshmen alike are taking an active part in my ELA classes to help themselves and others bring our literature to life. My mission is to inform students in my classes to better understand the previous generations and what we all share. My objective is for the kids in my class to see me not just as their teacher, but also as a current member of an American family who lived through the same time period that we study for two novels, one short story and assorted poetry.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8694 Mon, 14 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Middle School’s Tri-M Brass Ensemble and director Concetta Stevens helped brighten the holidays for the community, performing at both the East Islip Fire Department’s tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 7 and the Momentum at South Bay nursing home in East Islip on Dec. 9. Participating middle schoolers included tuba player John Donovan, trombonists Jack Bonner and Kurt Eide, horn players Emily Orski and Michael Stevens, and trumpeters Joe Corrao, Richie Hughes, Kevin Jacobsen and Evan Mauner. At the tree lighting ceremony, the student-musicians helped kick off the holiday with Christmas songs like “Deck the Halls,” “Jingle Bells” and “Joy to the World.” Santa and friends then arrived on a fire truck while the brass ensemble played “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” Two days later, the students performed at Momentum, bringing holiday cheer and lifting the spirits of the patients in the audience. Their setlist included a Hanukkah medley as well as “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” and other holiday favorites. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8649 Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education met on Jan. 10 for its monthly business meeting, approving several resolutions on agreements with the district’s bargaining units in regards to new contracts as well as emergency work, make-up and vacation days resulting from Superstorm Sandy. Also approved were certified and noncertified personnel reports, two high school field trips (one for music students and orchestra director Susan Rydzeski to travel to Lakewood, N.J. for a music competition on May 17, and another for the school’s International Business Globalization Career Academy and director Israel Malinowitzer to visit New Orleans in April) and one donation ($4,222.75 from the East Islip Middle School fall picture program, to be used to purchase new projectors and whiteboards). In new business, Board President Ken Cronin noted that the district would be implementing enhancements to the district’s security plan, including a new audio-visual entrance system that would check visitors’ identification before they entered a school building. The East Islip Board of Education will hold its next monthly business meeting on Feb. 14 at 8 p.m. The meeting will be held in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8654 Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School’s student government and Best Buddies Club attended the 12th annual Our Kids in Action Youth Conference and Anti-Bullying Rally at LIU Post on Dec. 7. The exciting educational conference featured former New York Giant Keith Davis as a speaker. In his “Stand Up and Speak Out Against Bullying” program, Davis used his platform as a professional football player to remind students that to succeed in life, they don’t have to be world-class athletes, just world-class people. By sharing his own personal trials and triumphs, Davis connected with the attending students and delivered a resounding message: “With big effort, focus on education and the excellence you already possess, you can be champions in your own life.” He also noted that bullies have no place in schools and encouraged the children to recognize that every student has value and deserves respect, and that no one should use social bullying as a way of tearing others down. Said teacher Dawn Ann Zeffiro, “During the conference, the students enjoyed listening to Mr. Davis and other motivational speakers and performers instill the mission of Our Kids in Action, to help young people become healthy, respectful, responsible, caring citizens with good judgment and integrity – the necessary attributes for tomorrow’s workforce and community leaders.” As part of the conference, students were encouraged to submit a voluntary essay of 500 words or less on one of four topics. East Islip Middle School student Victoria Keenan received a certificate of achievement for her superlative entry, which echoed Davis’ anti-bullying messages. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8628 Thu, 10 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students in the East Islip High School Medical and Health Technology Career Academy, popularly known as “CAM,” recently participated for the first time in the “Adopt-a-Family” program of North Shore-LIJ's Southside Hospital. Aided by East Islip science teacher Lisa Neri and Career Academy director Israel Malinowitzer, the CAM students met with Southside human resource administrator Marge Miller at the school’s library on Dec. 21. They presented Miller with gifts of a bicycle and karaoke machine for the program’s adopted family. For the past 35 years, North Shore-LIJ has implemented the Adopt-a-Family program, with the health system’s employees annually selecting and “adopting” hundreds of needy families in the community. “The Medical Academy students did a great job collecting money from their fellow students,” said Malinowitzer. “We plan to make this event a yearly community service and look forward to being a part of as wonderful program that gives back to those less fortunate, especially young children.” “Southside Hospital is grateful for the wonderful spirit these teenagers displayed in wanting to make other people's holidays joyful,” added Miller. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8630 Thu, 10 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Sophomore Megan Ludwig was recently selected as East Islip High School’s winner of the prestigious Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership award, and will attend this year’s HOBY New York Metro Leadership Seminar, a three-day conference held at Adelphi University in Garden City on June 8-10. Founded by civic-minded actor Hugh O’Brian in 1958, HOBY’s mission is to inspire a global community of youth and volunteers to a life dedicated to leadership, service and innovation. HOBY programs such as the seminar at Adelphi provide selected students with unique leadership training and motivation-building experiences. For East Islip’s contest, sponsored by the local Lions Club, Ludwig composed a short essay about being a leader. “Megan is truly a responsible and socially conscious young woman,” said school counselor Vanessa Gonzalez. “She truly embodies the HOBY mission to inspire and develop our global community of youth leaders. In her essay, she described how she strives to be a leader within her church’s youth group in building a house for Habitat for Humanity. She is aware of the challenges that she faced while carrying out this role, but facing these challenges and working together with others is how the youth group accomplished their goal. Through this experience, she discovered her true capacity for leadership.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8610 Wed, 09 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT In a fascinating lesson titled “Making It Strange,” East Islip High School students in Daniel Figliozzi's Design for Drawing and Production class recently created transformation drawings of a simple appliance of their choice. Each of the young artists drew observational drawings of the front view of their object and were then challenged to radically transform it using synectic fantasy. The students used their imagination and advanced drawing skills to melt their objects, hybridize them, change their scale and purpose, simplify them and animate them. The artists were then challenged to place each of these transformation drawings onto one page in an exciting composition of color and movement. “My students had a great time with the ‘Making It Strange’ lesson,” said Figliozzi. “They were forced to think outside the box and use creative problem-solving skills to reach a solution for each of their transformations. Some students really got into making their objects interact with each other within the composition of the drawing, while others simply overlapped their objects in a simple composition.” Explaining the genesis of this creative exercise, Figliozzi added, “Mr. Melendez introduced me to this lesson last year when we reintroduced the Design and Drawing for Production course into the art department. We refurbished the course so that it was more exciting and appealing for our students today. East Islip High School’s artists continue to use the design process to create exciting new pieces every day.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8612 Wed, 09 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Jan. 7, 2013: Fourth-graders Lucas Brass, Christian Canessa, Dimitri Makarow, Kasey Turtell and Joseph Yaccarino of Connetquot Elementary Fourth-grader Kyle Kirschberg of John F. Kennedy Elementary Kindergartners Vincent Fantauzzi and Kiersten Galli of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Fourth-graders Lucas Bates and Anna Koch of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8594 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District’s winter concert series concluded with two triumphant nights of music from East Islip High School’s outstanding student-musicians, cementing the school’s reputation as a hotbed of serious music instruction and engaging performances. After Principal William Brennen and East Islip Music Director Stephen Guarino provided introductory comments, the first night show on Dec. 17 opened with a strong performance from the school’s concert choir, directed by Bethany Affelt and accompanied by pianist Christopher McKee and percussionists Jack Newman and Vincent Sheppard. The 1945 wintry classic “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” by Jule Styne was followed by Nigerian folk song “Mojuba” and David Eddleman’s “Bidi Bom.” A vocal duet by Jonathan Coffin and Alyssa Stephens on “Finale B” from “Rent” was enhanced by Joseph Janover’s guitar skills. The East Islip High School Women’s Choir was next, also directed by Affelt and accompanied by McKee, Newman and Sheppard. A featured group of Krista Cook, Danielle Pafundi, Faith Penny, Samantha Sampollo and Sara Schaber were showcased on opening number “Three African Folk Songs.” After singing Dan Forrest's “Psalm 8 (Adonai, Adonenu),” the women’s choir were joined by the school’s select orchestra for a joint performance of “Believe” from “The Polar Express.” Under the direction of Alyssa Sciarrino, the school’s string orchestra offered fine renditions of “Silent Night,” Lennie Niehaus’ “Celtic Overture” and James Pierpont’s “Dueling Jingle Strings.” Closing out the first night of the series, the wind ensemble and director Christopher Neske delivered a potent version of Gustav Holst’s Second Suite in F, followed by Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride.” On Dec. 18, the second night of the concert series, the East Islip High School Honors Symphony Orchestra took the stage with director Susan Rydzeski for an imaginative program including Antonio Vivaldi’s “Allegro” from Concerto for Two Solo Violins and String Orchestra, music from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Phantom of the Opera” and J.S. Pierpont's “Tintinnabulations.” Violin soloists Elaina Lorefice and Jessica Willdigg impressed the audience with their instrumental mastery. Next up was the school’s honors choir, directed by Affelt and again accompanied on percussion by Newman and Sheppard. Beginning the program with the Christmas hymn “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming,” the singers then continued with Mozart’s “Turkish March for Voices” and “Chanukah Variations.” “Lux Aurumque,” a modern Christmas-themed composition by Eric Whitacre, was particularly impressive, as was the honors choir’s closing number, “O Sifuni Mungu,” sung in Swahili and featuring soloists Janover, Courtney Kenyon and Tanner Schaper. The final performance of the evening – and of the district’s winter concert series as a whole – came from the East Islip High School Concert Band, led by director Neske. Robert Jager’s “Esprit de Corps” set the tone, followed by Chip Davis’ “Fanfare/Hark! the Herald Angels Sing,” casting familiar holiday pieces in the style of Mannheim Steamroller. After a rendition of the traditional “Auld Lang Syne,” the band ended the night with Alfred Reed’s “Gallop” from his 1976 First Suite for Band. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8597 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Please note the attached Jan. 7 letter to parents from East Islip High School Principal William Brennen, regarding Regents week and an important change to the high school calendar. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8572 Mon, 07 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School's STARS club went caroling on Dec. 21 at a local nursing home, Momentum at South Bay, singing holiday songs for about 30 Momentum residents. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8573 Mon, 07 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Two Parent Portal workshops will be held tonight, Jan. 7, to assist parents and guardians of East Islip Middle School and East Islip High School students with setting up accounts and navigating the Portal. The new Portal account presentation takes place at 6 p.m., while a refresher presentation for existing account holders will be at 6:45 p.m. Both will be held in the middle school auditorium. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8575 Mon, 07 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT MSG Varsity will be televising this Wednesday, Jan. 9th's wrestling action, in which East Islip visits Hauppauge for a 6:30 p.m. match. Viewers can catch a replay on Sunday, Jan. 13 at 9 a.m. on Channel 14, or watch the contest any time after 9 a.m. on Jan. 15 either on-demand on Channel 614 or online at MSGVarsity.com. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8576 Mon, 07 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School junior Abigail Dell’Orto recently submitted an essay to the National Center of Suburban Studies at Hofstra University/Eastern Suffolk BOCES as part of its Celebration of Suburban Diversity 2012 Essay Scholarship Contest, sponsored by Bethpage Federal Credit Union. Although Dell’Orto did not win the competition, which focused on Long Island’s diversity and sustainability, the Hofstra review committee was impressed with her writing and rewarded her with a $200 donation for East Islip, to be used by the high school to promote a diversity- or sustainability-related project. “Abigail willingly wrote the essay about sustainability because she is concerned about the future ability of people her age to maintain the quality of life that her parents have on Long Island,” said teacher Teresa Avila. “Because Abigail is a self-directed learner who seeks to help others, she wanted to offer a suggestion and a possible solution to the problem.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8556 Fri, 04 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The fifth annual Top Chef Day event – actually held over two days, Dec. 17 and 18 – at East Islip Middle School brought cooking methods and traditions to life for students in home and career skills teacher Rena Costello’s classroom. During the event, faculty members visit the class to demonstrate the cooking of their favorite dishes, while the students are given an opportunity to ask each “chef” questions about the recipes and other food-related topics. The various recipes are later published in a “Cooking in Room 104” cookbook for the students to take home. This year’s cooks and recipes included Allison Claiborne’s pinch-me cake, Brian Heyanka’s omelet, Barbara Huether’s chocolate cream pie, Mary Mazzarella’s rice pudding, Kristin Palmeri’s homemade pizza and Sheila Stern’s double chocolate chip cookies. The school’s two assistant principals, Janet Jones and Christian Seifert, also got in the act, with Seifert whipping up a special holiday French toast. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8557 Fri, 04 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District’s fourth and final elementary school 2012 winter concert was one to remember, as spirited sounds from the students of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary garnered audience applause and admiration. After introductions from RCK Principal Danielle Naccarato and East Islip Music Director Stephen Guarino, the Dec. 12 concert began with the school’s advanced band, directed by Lynda Maniscalco, performing Mykola Leontovych’s “Carol of the Bells,” John O'Reilly’s arrangement of “A Shaker Hymn” and Vince Guaraldi’s classic “Peanuts” theme, “Linus and Lucy.” “The students played beautifully at the winter concert,” remarked Maniscalco. “We are so proud of all of our fantastic musicians at RCK.” The school’s chorus was up next, directed by Margaret Strzelecka and accompanied by Jeremy Barbaro. Filling the East Islip High School auditorium with good cheer, the singers performed the Israeli song “Dodi Li” and the gently sung traditional Christmas carol “Away in a Manger” before closing with “A Perfect Winter Day” by Teresa and Paul Jennings. Under the direction of Angela Fetcho, the young musicians of RCK’s advanced orchestra ended the evening’s musical entertainment with festive renditions of three traditional tunes: James Lord Pierpont’s 1850 classic “Jingle Bells,” “Chanukah, Chanukah” and “Good King Wenceslas.” “I congratulate our fantastic fiddlers,” said Fetcho. “I am so proud of each and every one of them and I can't wait until our spring concert!” “The concert was a huge success,” added Naccarato. “I am very proud of all the RCK musicians and our amazing RCK music staff.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8537 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Fifteen East Islip High School students from Donna Nelson’s Studio in Art classes and Joy Taylor’s drawing class – Alessandra Bonaventura, Grace Bogdanowich, Elaina Brzostek, Hope Campbell, Jenny Casey, Victoria D’Ambra, Kelly Durso, Melissa Gallardo, Dylan Hirx, Kristin Linz, Christopher Regan, Michelle Suter, Kristy Veliz, Bryant Weingarten and Shahrazad Zayer – participated in the annual High School Art Competition sponsored by Suffolk County Community College in December. The students were honored by having their work displayed in a formal gallery setting in the Captree Commons Building at the college’s Michael J. Grant Campus in Brentwood. “The variety of work was impressive,” said Nelson. “Works displayed in the exhibition included drawings, photography, collage, sculpture, ceramics and painting.” Nelson, Taylor and eight of the East Islip student-artists attended a Dec. 13 reception and awards presentation hosted by Suffolk County Community College’s art faculty, accompanied by their family, and friends. “This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to share their artistic expressions,” said Nelson. “Our art department congratulates these talented young artists for their dedication and pursuit of artistic expression in entering this competition, and we look forward to seeing their continued efforts in the visual arts.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8540 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Earning places as role models for their peers, East Islip High School seniors Kendall Allmendinger and Casey Nolan were the school’s 2012 recipients of the Suffolk Zone Award. The students were honored by the Suffolk Zone Chapter of the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance at a dinner held on Dec. 5 at the Hyatt Regency Wind Watch and Golf Club in Hauppauge. Chosen by East Islip’s physical education staff, the Suffolk Zone Award is given annually to the top male and female physical education students in that year’s graduating class. The 2012 criteria for achieving this honor, as defined by the Suffolk Zone Chapter, include earning an A average or above 90 in high school physical education classes, achieving an overall grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale at the completion of the student’s junior year, outstanding character and leadership qualities, and being a role model for good health and physical fitness. “Throughout the year, both students displayed leadership, sportsmanship and outstanding character traits while in physical education class,” said East Islip Athletic Director Stephen Restivo, who attended the ceremony. “Kendall and Casey work very hard in class and always lend a helping hand to both fellow students and staff.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8481 Wed, 02 Jan 2013 08:00:00 GMT Connetquot Elementary School’s annual Arts & Craft Family Fun Night was held in Dec. 7 in conjunction with the Bayard Cutting Arboretum’s tree lighting ceremony. Students constructed bird treats to hang outside, ensuring their feathered friends have enough food for the winter. “Unfortunately the weather did not cooperate this year,” said chairperson Donna Yankus. “However, all that attended had a great time and we thank the families that could make it.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8518 Wed, 02 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Danielle Wynn, the Town of Islip’s recycling educator, recently visited students in East Islip High School’s Environment Green Career Academy to speak about local recycling. After presenting a short video highlighting the town’s multi-purpose recycling facility, Wynn provided real-life objects for the students to see. “I show examples of recyclables such as newspaper, magazines, glass bottles, plastic containers and metal cans,” said Wynn. “I also show what the recyclables can be made into – pencils, clothing, pocketbooks, bags and pencil cases.” “The Town of Islip offers educational services to all our schools in order to introduce students to the benefits of recycling and therefore encourage appropriate recycling practices among our residents,” explained Commissioner Eric M. Hofmeister. “The presentation uses solid waste management as a focal point to develop skills such as reading, writing, math, critical thinking, communicating, and managing information. One of the most successful ways to help students with these skills is to provide opportunities for them to learn about interesting, relevant problems. Managing solid waste is a real-life problem and our schools are a vital forum for educating young people and the community about the concerns and solutions of solid waste management. We hope to continue to influence our young people and their families in the area of solid waste management.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8519 Wed, 02 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Undefeated for the last two years, the East Islip Middle School kickline team recently received another first-place trophy. “The girls have worked extremely hard this year and entered the Pom Division with a solid routine, sharp pom moves, difficult dance steps and smiles on their faces,” said coaches Danielle Gick and Christina Inghingolo. After competing in two more Long Island Kickline Association regionals, the team will head to the championships. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8520 Wed, 02 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT During the week of Dec. 3-7, East Islip Middle School’s student government and National Junior Honor Society teamed up to conduct a successful toy drive that provided over 200 new toys, books, puzzles and games to needy children in the East Islip area and North Shore-LIJ Southside Hospital in Bay Shore. This year’s toy drive included a “B”-day homeroom competition. Teacher Mary Mazzarella’s homeroom collected the largest percentage of gifts based on homeroom enrollment and will receive a breakfast party as a prize. Following the drive, the student government hosted a gift-wrapping and card-making event on Dec. 13 in the school’s cafeteria. Over 200 cards were made to send to troops serving overseas, and more than 200 gifts were wrapped. The toys were distributed to needy local families and delivered to Southside Hospital's pediatric and emergency departments. “We thank East Islip Middle School so much for teaching their students the importance of philanthropy,” said Southside representative Nora Perry. “It really does make a difference.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8479 Wed, 02 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Less than an hour before school was dismissed and the holiday vacation began, the halls of Connetquot Elementary were filled with song and excitement as students, staff and PTA parents joined together as one chorus in joyous holiday spirit. In typical fashion, music teacher Eileen Egbert made a grand entrance into the main office with her piano and PA system. Accompanying her for the Dec. 21 singalong was a talented entourage of fifth-grade students who led the school in seasonal favorites, including "Jingle Bells," "Frosty the Snowman," "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" and "We Wish You a Merry Christmas." Students read from their songbooks in loud and lovely voices. The elation was heightened when a gentleman in a red suit, a "jolly old soul," entered the school for a visit, accompanied by his "elves," PTA moms who brought gifts for every child. "It was a lovely moment in Connetquot that reminded everyone about the power of music to bring our community together," said Principal Deborah Smith. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8451 Mon, 24 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Family and friends of all ages gathered for a festive morning in East Islip at the high school’s 17th annual Breakfast with Santa holiday party. Hosted by teacher Kelly Schwender and her child development students, the Dec. 17 event brought joy – and a visit from Santa – to local preschoolers enrolled in the school’s Toddler High program. The high school students had earlier helped the youngsters with various hands-on holiday art projects. During the breakfast, held at the high school library, the elder volunteers guided their younger pals over to Santa’s lap for photos and presents. “Breakfast with Santa is a real opportunity for the Toddler High parents to observe how well their children are progressing and to see the close-knit relationship that is growing between the high school students and their children,” said Israel Malinowitzer, the school’s guidance director. “The children have been together since September, so this event is very special to all of the students and parents and brings the first half of the year to a happy ending.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8447 Sun, 23 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students at Timber Point Elementary in East Islip were busy creating gingerbread houses the week before Christmas. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8448 Sun, 23 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School's student government and National Junior Honor Society have teamed up to conduct a Snowflake Creation Day on Wednesday, Jan. 9 to show their support for the Sandy Hook Elementary School students in Connecticut. The event will take place from 3-3:40 p.m. at the school cafeteria. For more information and to fill out a permission slip, please click on the attached flier. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8434 Fri, 21 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Stephanie Clahane, a special education teacher at East Islip High School, was one of many hardy souls to take part in the third annual Brookhaven Town Polar Plunge at Mt. Sinai’s Cedar Beach. Held to support athletes competing in the Special Olympics, the icy dip in Long Island Sound took place on Dec. 15, rescheduled from the prior month due to Superstorm Sandy. Clahane, a Mt. Sinai resident, participated in the event with her son Michael. Read all about it in Lon Cohen’s Dec. 17 article, “Polar Plunge Lifts Spirits for a Good Cause,” posted in the Port Jefferson Patch. Photo by Lon Cohen http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8435 Fri, 21 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Over 260 people donned a colorful variety of hooded sweatshirts to joined EJ Autism founder Bea Huste-Petersen for the organization’s third annual Black Tie Hoodie Event on Dec. 3. Proceeds from the fundraiser, held at Captain Bill's in Bay Shore, will help finance EJ Autism’s work in supporting students diagnosed with autism. Lou Pepe of the East Islip Soccer Club and Suffolk County Legislator Tom Cilmi were honored this year for their dedication to the community’s children. East Islip School District participants dressed in hoodies included Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello; Alise Becker-Santa, the assistant superintendent for instruction and personnel; Susan Kosser, the assistant to the superintendent for student support services; Board of Education President Ken Cronin; and Board trustees Kim G. Phillips and Glenn Reed. Phillips proved the victor of a Best Hoodie contest, with a winning entry that lit up. Newsday covered the event and featured 15 hooded attendees and their attire in “What They're Wearing: Black Tie Hoodie 2012.” Photos by John Lennon, courtesy of Lennon Photography http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8446 Fri, 21 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School's Career Academies will hold an informational meeting on Jan. 9. The conference will begin at 7 p.m. in the school cafeteria. "We are inviting current sophomores and juniors to hear all about our fantastic programs," said the director, Israel Malinowitzer, referring to the three thriving Career Academy programs at East Islip: Environment Green, International Business Globalization, and Medical and Health Technology. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8410 Thu, 20 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students in East Islip High School art teacher Heather Toomey's fashion course began the year with an introduction to fashion illustration. They learned about the elongated fashion proportion of the figure, designed their own clothes and then used their choice of material to provide shading, create form and add volume to their illustrations. "I am very excited to be teaching this course," said Toomey. "The fashion students are extremely enthusiastic, motivated and creative." http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8413 Thu, 20 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Over two nights of stirring sounds, the musicians of East Islip Middle School showcased their growing skills and proved the vigor of a vaunted music program that has carefully nurtured their budding talents. These Dec. 10 and 11 winter concerts were filled with variety and nods to the holiday season, bringing joy to the proud parents and community members in attendance. In their first performance as middle school students, the members of the sixth-grade orchestra played an exciting and ambitious program to begin the first night’s concert. With Jackie Collins as director, they tackled John Caponegro’s “Hanukkah Holiday,” Richard Meyer’s “Bach Country Fiddles” and Soon Hee Newbold’s epic “Medieval Kings.” “The students were able to experience the American style of fiddle playing while also performing classical literature,” said Collins. “They should be extremely proud of all the progress they have made since September.” The East Islip Middle School Girls Chorus was up next, directed by Patricia Bryan and accompanied by pianist Jeremy Barbaro. After “Joyful, Joyful” rang out, featuring soloist Sarah Bloom, the singers offered “a Hebrew song of hope,” Nurit Hirsch and Ehud Manor’s “Bashana Haba’ah,” followed by Richard Kountz’s “The Sleigh.” Their performance ended with a rendition of “Believe” (from the film “The Polar Express”), led by soloists Cassandra Manfredi and Sara Rapuzzi. Under the direction of Lisa Ashkenazy, the school’s sixth-grade chorus dove into Antonio Salieri’s “Sing with Festive Cheer,” again accompanied by Barbaro, then sang “The Moon” by Andy Beck and “Winter Wonders” by Amy F. Bernon. The Dec. 10 show concluded with the sixth-grade band and its director Christopher Robertson vigorously performing holiday favorites like “Frosty the Snowman,” “That Holiday Season,” “Hanukkah Dance” and “Feliz Navidad.” Directed by Judith A. Fischer, the East Islip Middle School Orchestra kicked off the second night’s concert. From “Holiday Hoedown” (arranged by Mark Williams) to two sparkling classical pieces– the finale of Handel’s Concerto Grosso No. 2 and Gustav Holst’s March from Suite No. 1 – the seventh- and eighth-grade musicians offered a diverse program with regard to musical forms and styles. “Each of the pieces presented a unique educational experience while allowing my students to have fun performing,” remarked Fischer. The school’s concert band, under director Concetta Stevens, provided an expansive program, leading off with the Jerry Williams novelty tune “Deck the Halls with Old Composers,” which mixes bits of a variety of classic themes into “Deck the Halls.” The players then launched into the pulsating “Halo Theme” (arranged by Robert Sheldon from the popular science-fiction video game “Halo”) before closing with “Themes from Walt Disney’s Fantasia.” Ending this pair of winter concerts, Bryan and the East Islip Middle School Concert Choir awed the audience with a beautifully sung version of Linda Spevacek’s “Madrigal of the Bells,” featuring soloists Vinny Altman, Brittney Berke, Kendra Lee Canavan, Paul DeMasi, Erin Fitzgerald and Jenna Norrby. After delivering traditional Jewish folk song “Hine Ma Tov” and Robert Thygerson’s “Sing Gloria,” they closed the night with the “Glee” arrangement of Bill Withers’ inspirational ’70s pop classic “Lean on Me,” showcasing soloists Amanda Baranek, Amanda Carey and Peter Scavone. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8417 Thu, 20 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Santa was in the house at East Islip High School on Dec. 7 as teacher Kelly Schwender’s child development classes hosted the second annual Evening with Santa event. Over 60 high school students volunteered their time to spend an evening with younger children from pre-K through third grade, working with the youngsters on games, face painting and temporary tattoos, and arts and crafts. Participating East Islip families were greeted at the door by the high school students, receiving “Santa’s Workshop” laminated sticker charts. The stickers helped the young children collect rewards for participating in hands-on holiday games – including bingo, bowling, snowball tossing and pin the nose on Rudolph – that the high schoolers had created and organized during Schwender’s classes. Her volunteers also baked holiday refreshments that were served to all the guests and assisted the children in visiting three arts and crafts centers (ornaments, holiday frames and gingerbread). Santa made a special appearance, naturally. “These students worked very hard,” said Israel Malinowitzer, the high school’s guidance director. “Congratulations to Mrs. Schwender for a wonderful kickoff to the holiday season!” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8420 Thu, 20 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Dec. 17, 2012: Fifth-graders Jacob DiPrima-Bien and Mark Shayew of Connetquot Elementary Third-grader Ava Trotta of John F. Kennedy Elementary Second-graders Emma Burns and James Buonincontri of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Kindergartners Samuel Henderson and Johanna LeRoux of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8362 Tue, 18 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Bringing smiles to the faces of youngsters who don't have much to cheer about, East Islip High School’s good-hearted softball team has continued its annual holiday tradition of volunteerism. On Dec. 8, the athletes – including all eight returning varsity players – gathered as a team at a Toys"R"Us to shop for 24 children from an elementary school in Amityville, spending approximately $2,500 for presents, which they later wrapped. “They are for kids from families that are struggling this season,” explained the team’s coach, Jason McGowan. “The money is donated through the Holiday Magic program that I am a part of.” The softball squad next participated in the "Every Child's Dream" holiday party at Sayville High School on Dec. 14. “Our athletes volunteered their time helping families that live in shelters as well as homeless people off the street,” said McGowan. “They served dinner, did face painting, helped find clothing and assisted Santa with the gifts.” The team will volunteer at another similar party on Christmas Eve at the Watermill in Smithtown. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8372 Tue, 18 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School's winter concert II will be held tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the school's auditorium. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8158 Tue, 18 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School's winter concerts I and II will be held tonight and tomorrow night at 7:30 p.m. at the school's auditorium. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8159 Mon, 17 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT In light of the tragic event that took place at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn. last Friday morning, the East Islip School District has taken a series of prudent, proactive steps to maintain a secure school environment for all our students, staff and visitors. The principals of each of the district’s six schools called an emergency staff meeting before school on the morning of Dec. 17 in order to review school safety plans, protocols and procedures, including the recent changes in visitor policies. Staff members were also provided instruction from the district’s psychologists and social workers on how to sensitively respond to student questions about the Sandy Hook event. Building principals were asked to remain in their buildings throughout the day and to be visible outside during student arrival and dismissal. Each elementary school will have a security guard posted at the building for student arrival and dismissal throughout the week. I have also met with the district’s security director and school safety coordinator to review the safety procedures that are currently in place. Security director John Flynn will remain in contact with the Suffolk County Police Department to discuss any future concerns. For parents, we recommend the “Talking to Children About Violence” page on the National Association of School Psychologists website, for helpful ways to discuss school-related acts of violence with their children. Sincerely yours, John J. Finello Superintendent of Schools http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8265 Mon, 17 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Crystal Chiari’s class at Connetquot Elementary School in Islip Terrace have been visiting their music teacher, Eileen Egbert, in preparation for their vocal performance in the school’s upcoming holiday celebrations. The second-graders had fun learning “The Dreidel Song.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8326 Mon, 17 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT At the East Islip Board of Education’s Dec. 13 monthly business meeting, the districtwide Transportation Committee offered a thought-provoking presentation and the winners of East Islip’s Red Ribbon anti-drug slogan contest were honored. The brisk meeting began with the introduction of members of East Islip High School’s Students Against Destructive Decisions club and their adviser, Bridget Lopiccolo, who presented the Red Ribbon contest awards. In honor of Red Ribbon Week, SADD had traveled to the four elementary schools on Oct. 26, teaching drug awareness and helping the younger students participate in a ribbon contest. Fifth-graders Gianna Armstrong of Connetquot Elementary, Ryan Hinck of John F. Kennedy Elementary, Caroline Meehan of Timber Point Elementary and Samantha Winegrad of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary were all recognized for their anti-drug slogans and given gift certificates and backpacks as well-deserved prizes for their winning ribbons. The districtwide Transportation Committee were up next, with committee member Jason Worst making a detailed presentation on their goal to review the district’s current walker/rider policy and cost of transportation, alternate transportation walker/rider limits and their impact on students’ transportation eligibility , and make recommendations to the Board for potential changes via public referendum to current voter approved mileage limits. Worst noted that adopting New York State’s mileage limits would save only $228,000 (or three buses) rather than the $1 million plus that was previously estimated, and would have substantial negative impacts, including reducing bus ridership by more than one-third, cutting 935 students who would no longer be eligible to ride, and increasing dangerous traffic around the district’s schools. Worst said that the committee thus could not recommend this potential change and had no consensus on any other change to walker/rider limits. “Basically we’re better off staying the way we are,” he concluded. For a more detailed look at the Transportation Committee’s findings, view the attached presentation. The Board of Education approved a resolution to amend the 2012-13 school calendar so that dates on Feb. 19-22, 2013 can be used as instructional days (as a result of lost days due to to Hurricane Sandy), as well as an resolution for a resulting agreement with the East Islip Teachers Association regarding those instructional days. The Board also approved two recommended policies, one new (No. 6450 – Accounting of Funds) and one revised policy (No. 5151 – New Entrant Elementary Student Placement). The East Islip Board of Education will hold its next regular monthly business meeting on Jan. 10 at 8 p.m. The meeting will be held in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8331 Mon, 17 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT “Today was a wonderful day for our students!” exclaimed East Islip High School teacher Bridget Lopiccolo, the coordinator of the school’s Mentor Me program, now in its 10th year. Lopiccolo was referring to the Dec. 6 Meet My Mentor Breakfast, the second in a three-part mentoring event series sponsored by the East Islip/Dowling School Business Partnership’s Career Development Committee, preceded by the Catch-a-Career Breakfast on Oct. 24. Many of the 93 students participating in East Islip’s mentoring program were in attendance at the breakfast, held in the high school’s library. “They were able to meet someone in their desired career field and begin a relationship with a mentor,” said Lopiccolo. “These mentors can provide students with a hands-on experience that will offer them great insight into their future.” She credits School Business Partnership member Beth Abesamis for much of the hard work and diligence involved in placing the students with the right mentors. “Our students buy into Mentor Me because they can see the commitment and enthusiasm their mentors bring to the program,” said Paul McHugh, a Career Development Committee member who handles the school’s mentoring program along with fellow teacher Lopiccolo. “Having the opportunity to begin their career exploration now provides a tremendous benefit to them as they move on to the next level, be it college or career,” he added. Participating as mentors were such local community and business leaders as Suffolk County Legislator Tom Cilmi, local attorney Anthony D’Amico, Suffolk County police officer Bonnie Raber, Allstate agent Steve Foray, Lauren Zietsman of St. Charles Hospital, the Town of Islip’s Dan Janover, Donna Griffin of the Make Up Studio in Babylon, State Farm agent Maureen Campodonico, Michelle Donovan and Michelle Graff of Good Shepherd Hospice, Clifford Saron of NextGen Advertising, funeral director James Bruno, Thomas Franza of Dowling College, the AHRC’s Kate Becker, Stefani Modica-Schlott of North Shore-LIJ Southside Hospital, Lauren Moran of Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center, Al Henneborn of Motorola Solutions, Matt Goldapper of JVC Broadcasting, veterinary technician Jessica Hamilton, Christopher McCarthy of Island Shore Physical Therapy, doctors Ray Mascola and Aleksandra Wianecka, Cindy Cipolar of the Cleary School for the Deaf, and East Islip School District staff members Christine Cirillo, Donna Marshall and Renee Nelson. “With events like the Meet My Mentor Breakfast and the Career Academies, East Islip is being pretty entrepreneurial in the programs we are able present to our students,” commented Board of Education trustee Glenn Reed, who attended the breakfast along with fellow Board members and administrators. “Having local politicians as well as community, business and civic leaders participate makes these programs even better.” The third and final segment of the mentoring program is Shadow Day, where participating students “shadow” their selected career mentors. Students interested in the medical field will shadow their mentors at various hospitals and dentists’ and ophthalmologists' offices across Long Island on Jan. 10, while the remaining participants will have Shadow Day on Jan. 31. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8342 Mon, 17 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT A festive group of approximately 35 East Islip High School students decorated the school’s lobby for the holidays on Dec. 11. The students – Christina Coppola, Stephan De Turris, Erin Geraghty and Kristianna Schlosser, to name a few – represented a variety of school clubs and organizations including the student council, STARS, the Boys and Girls Leaders Clubs, the Cleary School for the Deaf, the Gay-Straight Alliance and all of the school’s honor societies. “It really was a community effort, just like November’s holiday food drive,” said teacher Frances Li, the adviser for STARS. “The cooperation among club members to help create a warm and festive environment for our students and staff is what the holiday season is all about. It was another wonderful event for the East Islip community.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8253 Fri, 14 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT A new Transportation section has been created on the East Islip School District website, located here under the District tab. The section includes the district's Transportation Committee presentation to the East Islip Board of Education from the Dec. 13 Board meeting (also attached below). For further reference, all of the documents previously found in the Bus Information section under the Parents tab on the site have been moved to the new Transportation section. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8260 Fri, 14 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Special education teacher Stephanie Clahane’s community service class at East Islip High School worked to help animals last month, collecting dog and cat food, cat litter, pet treats, leashes, cleaning supplies and used ink cartridges on behalf of the Save-A-Pet Animal Rescue and Shelter in Port Jefferson. On Nov. 26 the items were dropped off at Save-a-Pet, a nonprofit private facility that provides new homes for companion animals. “The class put a lot of work into making flyers, decorating boxes and collecting items,” said Clahane. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8261 Fri, 14 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT The districtwide Transportation Committee will make a presentation to the East Islip Board of Education at this evening’s Board meeting. The meeting will be held at 8 p.m. in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8230 Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Coach Marguerite Gomez led the East Islip Redmen into the Suffolk Community College indoor track facility last weekend to kick off the 2012-13 boys winter track campaign. Returning senior class veterans Shane Martin, Andrew Sharkey and others welcomed new faces to the squad and gave some fine performances of their own at the Dec. 9 crossover meet. Photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8233 Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students in East Islip High School art teacher Donna Nelson’s Studio in Art classes recently explored the new “zentangle” art concept and created their own original zentangle works, including wildly patterned zentangle animals and designs based on their own names. In developing these unusual designs, drawn one line at a time, Nelson’s students followed a series of productive ideas that define the zentangle concept. With zentangles, concentration and focus can be transformed into creative thought, freeing the artist to look at things in new ways and be open to new perspectives and insights. “Anything is possible” is a main credo of the concept. “With zentangles, there is no wrong way or wrong line that you can create as an artist,” Nelson explained. “Every line, shape, or value is deliberate or intentional, or at the very least can re-examined and made into something that is creative.” Zentangles are also created without erasing. “You do not use an eraser since each line is thought of as ‘meant to be there,’” she said. “This philosophy embraces the thinking that everything happens for a reason and life is an art form in and of itself, so everyone is an artist. Therefore, everyone draws.” There are no predetermined plans or solutions in a zentangle, and the design outcomes are always unknown. “The process allows you to discover new possibilities that you might not have anticipated when you began,” said Nelson, explaining the difference between zentangles and puzzles. The latter have ‘solutions.’ “You cannot fail to create a zentangle,” she said. Zentangles are always read as abstracts, according to Nelson. These creations are meant to be nonrepresentative, with no obvious up or down. “Since it is not a picture of something, you have no worries about whether you can draw a hand or a duck,” she said. “You always succeed in creating a pattern in a zentangle way. In my class, I asked the students to Identify their zentangles with an arrow on the back of their designs to denote the top, because I am interested in the way in which the students wanted their artwork displayed for others to “’read.’” Two other benefits of the zentangle artform are its portability, requiring little in the way of materials, time or space in order to create them, and its potent inspirational qualities. “Zentangles open up doors to understand art in the most basic ways,” said Nelson. “Everyone can relate to them in some way when viewing them.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8236 Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT The third night of the East Islip School District winter concert series was chock full of melodious tones as the young musicians of Connetquot Elementary School put everyone in in the holiday spirit at their Dec. 6 concert. After introductions from East Islip Music Director Stephen Guarino and Connetquot Principal Deborah Smith, the school’s orchestra began the musical festivities. Directed by Jaime DeMaria and accompanied by Rachel Axelrod on piano, the young string players tackled three jaunty tunes: “Bohemian Stomp” by Sandra Dackow, the traditional “The Snowman” and the 1850 classic “Jingle Bells” by James Lord Pierpont. Chorus director Eileen Egbert and her charges held down the middle slot of the program, bringing their marvelous harmonies to every inch of the high school auditorium. The chorus’ opening number, David Eddleman’s “Bidi Bom,” was accompanied by DeMaria's solo viola. After a delightful version of Jill Gallina’s “Winter Fantasy,” the singers tackled the complex four-part harmony of “The Three O’Clock Rehearsal of Combined Band and Chorus for the Very Merry Christmas Musicale,” composed by Walter Ehret, Bill Katz and Ruth Roberts and arranged by Egbert herself. The piece was enriched by four soloists: Matt Barra on tuba, Emily Rice on clarinet, Kasey Turtell on glockenspiel and Chris Zanone on trumpet. Under the direction of Ronald Fox, Connetquot’s band ended the evening on a high note with their impressive rendition of Robert W. Smith’s “Ceremonium,” followed by Jule Styne’s 1945 winter classic “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” and the traditional “Celebrating Chanukah.” “Once again, the talented students and teachers of Connetquot enthralled the audience,” said Principal Smith. “The long hours and hard work that were devoted to this performance certainly paid off and we are very proud of the wonderful music program we have.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8239 Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Laughter was in the air as the East Islip High School Drama Club presented the George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart comedy “You Can't Take It with You” last weekend, performing to sellout crowds in the school’s own theater. The strong demand for tickets led to an additional Sunday matinee following their two evening shows. “We presented ‘You Can't Take It with You’ on Dec. 7 and 8 as scheduled,” explained Drama Club director Susan Jeffares, “but the club was thrilled to add a third show on Dec. 9 due to phenomenal ticket sales. We were sold out on Friday and Saturday and entertained 80 people at our Sunday show.” The entire production almost didn’t happen due to district budgetary cuts, but the ever-generous For the Kids Foundation of East Islip came to the rescue. “My heartfelt thanks go out to the FTK Foundation who stepped in and sponsored the Drama Club this year,” Jeffares remarked. “They provided more than 25 students the opportunity to work together as a family and produce a show that made us all proud. As a director, I experienced working with a wonderful group of students who had a goal in mind and worked hard through months of rehearsal and even a hurricane to fulfill that goal.” The cast included senior Samantha Connolly as Penelope Sycamore, senior Courtney Kenyon as Essie, Shannon Caturano as Rheba, sophomore Andrew Sciallo as Paul Sycamore, senior Paul Brett (subbed by Nick Caron on Dec. 9) as Mr. De Pinna, senior Michael Danz as Ed, sophomore Cami Clemens as Donna, Joseph Janover as Martin Vanderhof, Michelle Zimms as Alice, freshman Noelia Vasquez as Wilma C. Henderson, David Cisek as Tony Kirby, Peter McDermott as Boris Kolenkhov, Emily DeMaio as Gay Wellington, senior Steven Biondi as Mr. Kirby, senior Alexandra Konnerth as Mrs. Kirby, and Rebecca Willdigg as the Grand Duchess Olga Katrina. Sophomore Tom DiOrio, junior Paige Epstein, Erin Geraghty, Jake Osburn and Kyra Walls portrayed a quintet of Department of Justice officers. Caturano, Clemens, Connolly, Danz, DeMaio, Kenyon and Willdigg are veterans of the Drama Club’s 2011 production, “Our Town,” while Biondi, Connolly and Kenyon were among those who performed in last year’s school music, “Carnival!” Impressive set designs for the event were constructed by art teacher and scenic painter Dan Figliozzi and his class, while Christopher Kenyon was responsible for designing the play’s poster. Stage managers DiOrio and Osburn handled sound and lights. The adept stage crew – Epstein, Geraghty, Ashley Karlin, Jessica Sabal and Walls – were kept busy. DeMaio, Geraghty and Sabal also served as production assistants for Jeffares. The original production of “You Can't Take It with You” opened in 1936 and played for 837 performances, winning the 1937 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. The 1938 film version, directed by Frank Capra and featuring stars like Jimmy Stewart and Arthur Murray, won 1938 Academy Awards for Best Picture and Best Director. Acting in such a period production proved educational for East Islip’s thespians. “It’s a hilarious and touching play centering around a loveable and wacky family that judges the quality of their lives not by money or fame, but by fulfilling their artistic talents and just having fun,” said Jeffares. “The show was a history lesson for the performers. We spent a lot of time researching unfamiliar references in the script and comparing life today with life back then. It was an eye-opener for the students to realize that the family in the play only had a radio and a telephone in their home, and those were rarely used.” One thing Jeffares is sure of is how much fun the performances were for students and audience alike. “Feedback from the audience was hearty laughter all the way through the show,” she said. “‘You Can’t Take It with You’ was insanely funny,” added Board of Education trustee Glenn Reed. “A timeless classic brought to life by a very talented and funny cast of students.” Photos by Glenn Reed & Israel Malinowitzer http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8226 Wed, 12 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Three extraordinarily talented student-musicians from East Islip School District – Courtney Kenyon and siblings Leah Stevens and Michael Stevens – performed at the 77th annual New York State School Music Association Winter Conference on Dec. 1 and 2 in Rochester’s famous Eastman Theater. Kenyon, a senior at East Islip High School and member of the Drama Club, sang in the All-State Women’s Choir. Flutist Leah Stevens, a junior at the high school and a member of East Islip’s Tri-M Music Honor Society, performed as principal flute in the All-State Symphonic Band. An eighth-grader at East Islip Middle School, Michael Stevens displayed his technical prowess at the All-State Piano Showcase. “The concerts and performances were outstanding examples of highly complicated and advanced collegiate-level material, conducted by famous conductors including Anthony Maiello and Dr. Jonathan Babcock,” said Stephen Guarino, East Islip’s director of art and music. “Our young East Islip musicians played with sophistication and poise and helped spread East Islip pride beyond the local community.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8228 Wed, 12 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Ruth C. Kinney Elementary School's winter concert will be held tonight at 7 p.m. at the East Islip High School auditorium. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8155 Wed, 12 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School's winter concert II will be held tonight at 7 p.m. at the East Islip High School auditorium. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8157 Tue, 11 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School varsity girls basketball team's Herricks Tournament game against Hewlett can be seen on Verizon's FiOS1 (Channel 501). The game will be aired on Dec. 12 at 7:30 p.m. and then again on Dec. 15 at 4:30 p.m. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8198 Tue, 11 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Dec. 10, 2012: Fourth-graders Dale Ahlers, Cody Solomon and Christopher Uraro of Connetquot Elementary Second-grader Shea Hernandez of John F. Kennedy Elementary Kindergartners Annelyse Marra and Jessica Ocaso of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Third-grader Ella Micalizzi of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8199 Tue, 11 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Unity Pharmacy of East Islip held the latest in a series of free monthly medical workshops at East Islip High School on Nov. 28, in conjunction with the school’s Medical and Health Technology Career Academy, popularly known as "CAM." Titled “Navigating the Insulin,” the event featured regular speaker Bakul “Bob” Matalia, the pharmacy’s owner. Matalia’s PowerPoint presentation and accompanying discussion addressed the causes of diabetes as well as solutions for those persons who have been diagnosed with the illness. At the end of the presentation he answered questions from science teacher Lisa Neri’s CAM students, who attend each of these monthly presentations. “We invite all community members to join us for these educational forums and hope that more people will join us in the coming months,” said Guidance Director Israel Malinowitzer, who runs the school’s Career Academies. “This is a very serious disease and we need to educate our students and parents to be aware of it and its consequences when left untreated.” The monthly workshops are held at 7:30 p.m. in the high school library. A full schedule of the medical workshops is attached below. For more information or to register for a workshop, contact Israel Malinowitzer at 631-224-2115. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8200 Tue, 11 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District’s winter concert series continued on Dec. 5 with a splendid display of musical talent and holiday cheer by the students of John F. Kennedy Elementary. The school’s orchestra was up first, following introductions from JFK Principal Aileen O’Rourke and East Islip Music Director Stephen Guarino. Under the direction of Angela Fetcho, the young musicians filled the East Islip High School auditorium with festive renditions of three traditional tunes: James Lord Pierpont’s 1850 classic “Jingle Bells,” “Chanukah” and “Good King Wenceslas.” “I congratulate all of my fantastic fiddlers on a beautiful winter concert performance,” said Fetcho. “They all did such a great job and I am so proud of each and every one of them. I can't wait for the spring concert!” The school’s chorus was up next, directed by James Santoro and adorned with Santa hats. The singers offered an array of harmonic delight, including “Hanukkah Is Here” by Karl Hitzemann and three songs by Teresa Jennings (the zippy “Glo-glo-glorious,” “We Will Jingle” and “We Wish You a Swingin’ Holiday”). The evening came to a close with a strong performance by JFK’s band, directed by Ronald Fox. Following a sophisticated version of Robert W. Smith’s “Ceremonium,” they tackled the wintry wonders of 1945’s “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” by Jule Styne and a traditional number, “Celebrating Chanukah.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8201 Tue, 11 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Their trip to New York City may have been delayed by Hurricane Sandy, but the East Islip High School Academic Team finally emerged victorious in their Nov. 9 first-round match of “The Challenge,” MSG Varsity’s award-winning high-school quiz show. East Islip defeated Sag Harbor’s Pierson High School by a score of 395-260. The show’s premise involves teams of academically gifted students competing via tests of their knowledge of arts and literature, history, math, science and current events. “The Challenge” began on Long Island 15 years ago but has since expanded to include almost 200 schools from the tri-state area. The tournament format involves a set of elimination rounds taking place over several months. The regional champs for each area (Suffolk, Nassau, New York City, New Jersey, Westchester, Connecticut) each receive a $2,500 prize for their school, then go on to compete against each other for the title of tri-state champion and its $10,000 prize. East Islip’s 2012-13 team consists of three seniors – team captain William Zachary Purdy, Vincent Sheppard and Peter Zepf – plus junior William Meehan (Purdy and Meehan are veterans of last year’s outstanding team). Alternate members for this year are seniors William Murphy and Bryan Tadlock. “This was a job well done!” said teacher and team adviser Marylou Ferrieri. Addressing the school, she added, “We would like to thank you all for your support. Your confidence in our team effort has been invaluable to our success, and we are very grateful. We would also like to acknowledge the enthusiasm of the 40 audience members of our core fanbase, 'The Torques.' We look forward to returning to the city to compete in rounds two and three sometime in early February.” Additional MSGVarsity.com photos from the match against Pierson can be viewed here and here. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8202 Tue, 11 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT On Dec. 8, members of East Islip High School's Interact Club joined forces with the Islip Rotary Club to volunteer as bell ringers for the Salvation Army's holiday collection outside of the local Stop & Shop supermarket on Sunrise Highway. Seniors Kylie McCarthy and Matthew Murphy were among the students who participated. "The generous support from the East Islip community will make a real difference to families in need in our community," said teacher Lisa Rapiejko, the Interact Club adviser. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8183 Mon, 10 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School's winter concerts I and II will be held tonight and tomorrow night at 7 p.m. at the East Islip High School auditorium. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8156 Mon, 10 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT “The Timber Point music students opened the holiday concert season with a superb performance,” said Jaime DeMaria, the elementary school’s orchestra director. “We are all very proud of them!” The Dec. 4 winter concert, held at the East Islip High School auditorium, brought holiday moods to the fore, from festive Santa hats to wintry tunes. After introductions from Timber Point Principal Lisa Belz and East Islip Music Director Stephen Guarino, the orchestra began the evening with jaunty takes of Sandra Dackow’s “Bohemian Stomp,” traditional piece “The Snowman” and James Lord Pierpont’s 1850 staple “Jingle Bells.” Timber Point’s bands, directed by Lynda Maniscalco, followed with a holiday sampler, John O'Reilly’s arrangement of “A Shaker Hymn” and a sprightly version of Vince Guaraldi’s classic “Peanuts” theme, “Linus and Lucy.” Closing out the night of holiday cheer was the school’s chorus. Under Kathy Carter’s direction and with hand bells a-ringing, the young singers tackled Walter Ehret, Bill Katz and Ruth Roberts' “The Three O’Clock Rehearsal of Combined Band and Chorus for the Very Merry Christmas Musicale.” “The vocal parts represented four different instruments – tuba, trumpet, clarinet and glockenspiel – resulting in four-part harmony,” explained Carter. Timber Point’s chorus then charmed the audience with “Hanukkah’s Child” by Linda Swears, ending with partner song “Winter Fantasy” by Jill Gallina, accompanied by jingle bells. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8153 Fri, 07 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Dear Parents/Guardians: The impact of Hurricane Sandy continues to present challenges to families and communities across Long Island. Most school districts were forced to close due to storm damage and power outages. For the East Islip School District, that resulted in a loss of five instructional days. School was called to session on Tuesday, Nov. 6, originally a non-instruction day, which left our district with a loss of four instructional days. The New York State Education Department requires that students be in attendance for a minimum number of days. As such, it is necessary to adjust East Islip’s 2012-2013 school calendar to recapture the days that the district was closed. The 2012-2013 school calendar will be amended, pending Board approval at the Dec. 13 Board of Education meeting, as follows: • School will be in session Tuesday, Feb. 19 through Friday, Feb. 22. • We will retain May 28 and March 27-28 as possible snow days. While these calendar changes may represent conflicts for families with February vacation plans, they allow the East Islip School District to meet New York State regulations for student attendance. Please plan your calendar accordingly. Thank you for your cooperation. Sincerely, John J. Finello Superintendent of Schools http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8147 Fri, 07 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Matthew Olsen, a fourth-grader at Connetquot Elementary School in Islip Terrace, is the winner of the school’s Connetquot Caring Citizens contest. Connetquot Caring Citizens is a program initiated three years ago through Connetquot’s School Improvement Team. The staff wanted to recognize students who demonstrate excellent character traits. To integrate creativity and student participation into the program, art teacher Elizabeth Sullivan developed a schoolwide contest for students to design a sticker symbolizing the "Triple C" concepts of good character. Every time a teacher notices a student making good decisions, being kind to another person, showing respect or demonstrating myriad qualities of good character, a staff member will award the student with a sticker, which he or she can proudly wear. A new sticker is created for each school year. During Connetquot’s in-school winter concert on Dec. 6, second-grade teacher Leslie Davis, an advocate for the Caring Citizens program, announced that Olsen had won the contest. In front of his proud mother and grandmother, Sullivan presented the honored student with a beautiful t-shirt emblazoned with the current sticker design. “The entire staff at Connetquot is involved in Connetquot Caring Citizens, reminding children to think about their actions and encouraging exemplary behavior,” remarked Principal Deborah Smith. “This is a great initiative to involve the school community in recognizing those students who are compassionate and trustworthy and know it is important to do the right thing at all times." http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8160 Fri, 07 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School's open recreation night, originally scheduled for Dec. 14, has been postponed and will be rescheduled. A new time and date have yet to be determined. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8148 Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Connetquot Elementary School's winter concert will be held tonight at 7 p.m. at the East Islip High School auditorium. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8065 Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT In Operation Candy Giveback, students in East Islip High School’s career development program provided grateful veterans with something sweet. Stephanie Clahane’s community service class collected Halloween candy last month, which was then distributed to the veterans at the Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center during their Thanksgiving feast. “The collection was a big success,” said Clahane, a special education teacher at East Islip. “We intend on repeating it next year!” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8123 Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students from East Islip Middle School’s Tri-M Music Honor Society recently spent time writing inspirational seasonal messages inside over 150 holiday cards. The sweet greetings, each adorned with a candy cane, will be distributed to a local nursing home and hospital. “This activity was a great way for these kids to brighten the holiday season of those in hospitals and nursing homes,” said Tri-M adviser Judith Fischer. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8129 Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip School District has launched a mobile version of its website. Accessible from any web-enabled phone or smartphone, the site connects students, parents, community members and teachers, wherever they may be, with the East Islip School District. Visit http://www.eischools.org/ from any web-enabled phone to test drive the site. The mobile website provides users with the same information as the regular website, such as news, calendars and staff lists. It also provides alerts in an easy-to-read manner. The district hopes this provides users with more on-the-go availability regarding the website. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8131 Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Fifth-graders at John F. Kennedy Elementary recently created a series of purposeful masks in art teacher Donna Bernard’s classroom. As part of the project, the students first analyzed and compared masks from countries around the world. After critiquing these traditional masks and realizing that they were constructed for certain purposes (to bring on rain, for example) , the students asked by Bernard to design masks of their own that could serve specific purposes in today’s society. Responses to the challenge included “To Bring on a Healthy Breakfast” (Angelina Edgar), “To Bring Good Luck” (John Lennon), “To Bring on Swag” (Jenna Piacenti), “To Bring on Baseball” (Brandon Keaney), “To Scare off Evil” (Robert Kreush), “To Bring on Cuteness” (Melissa Kemesies), “To Bring on Clean Oceans” (Colleen Ryan), “To Bring on Friendship” (Emma Chiarelli), “To Bring on Halloween” (Peter Miglionico) and “To Symbolize Every Girl’s Inner Princess or Inner Respect” (Giavanna Marino). http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8132 Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Eleven students from East Islip High School were chosen to participate in the annual New York State Council of Administrators of Music Education High School All-County Music Festival last month in Northport. NYSCAME’s All-County Festival annually selects the best 11th- and 12th-grade musicians in Suffolk County to perform in bands, choruses and orchestras, with coveted spots earned by top-notch evaluation scores in last spring’s New York State School Music Association Solo Festival in conjunction with recommendations from their high school music instructors. This year’s concert took place on Nov. 16 at Northport High School, and featured East Islip students Holly Alper, Samantha Connolly, Emily DeMaio, Courtney Kenyon, Elaina Loretice, William Meehan, Tanner Schaper, Vincent Sheppard, Leah Stevens, Maxx Vogelsberg and Jessica Willdigg. All were recognized for their high levels of achievement within East Islip’s vaunted music program. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8100 Wed, 05 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Dec. 3, 2012: Fifth-graders David Burk, Nicholas Paglino and Marissa Rifici of Connetquot Elementary Kindergartner Sophia Parrillo of John F. Kennedy Elementary Second-graders Emily Bott and Madison Lozyngier of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Third-grader Thomas Henderson of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8071 Tue, 04 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Teacher Greg Kguloian’s English language arts class modernized a classic in “Caesar 2012,” the latest in the Lit.2 Life series of cross-curriculum learning opportunities that Kguloian has offered his students. For Lit.2 Life 4.0, the East Islip High School sophomores rewrote William Shakespeare’s tragic 1599 play “Julius Caesar,” working together to create unique scripts and then acting out their original one-act plays over the course of several days in October. “The premise was that the election is won by an ambitious and charismatic leader who invokes the Patriot Act to the extreme and outlaws individual freedom to ensure law and order for all, very much like the Napoleonic Code,” explained Kguloian. “My students have learned how to understand the meaning behind the words of a Shakespearean play; therefore they took the classic ending of ‘Julius Caesar’ and made it their own.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8075 Tue, 04 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Pupil Personnel Department's "High Techspectations: Using Technology to Build Social and Communication Skills" parent training workshop, scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 5, has been canceled. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7745 Tue, 04 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s new Medical and Health Technology Career Academy sponsored its first symposium on Nov. 14 in conjunction with North Shore-LIJ Health System, featuring three doctors from North Shore-LIJ’s Southside Hospital. On hand to discuss medical careers with the East Islip seniors were Dr. Michael Nett, an orthopedic surgeon; Dr. Frank Manetta, a cardiothoracic surgeon; and Dr. Rosanna Sabini, who specializes in traumatic brain injury and concussion rehabilitation. Using a PowerPoint presentation and photos, the doctors explained what their jobs entail and the procedures that they must follow when performing surgeries. Also present for the event, held in the school’s library, were Kerri Fontaine, the hospital’s manager of marketing and education; Vincent Cunningham, Southside’s community relations coordinator; Cheryl Davidson, North Shore-LIJ’s director of workforce readiness; East Islip science teacher Lisa Neri; and Israel Malinowitzer, the Career Academy’s director. “The doctors were very informative and spent two hours answering questions and providing students with a better understanding of what is required of those who plan on going into the medical field,” explained Malinowitzer. “These students will be graduating in June 2013, and a conference like this is an excellent way for them to meet doctors and to ask them specific questions that will help the students decide if they are following the right career paths.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8046 Mon, 03 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Despite a topsy-turvy season turned upside down by Hurricane Sandy, East Islip High School cross-country runner Niamh Ashe finished as the undefeated League III champion this year and was selected to the All-County first team. Ashe was one of Suffolk County's top-rated 3,000-meter runners at the conclusion of last spring's track season, and continued her superlative high school athletic career this fall. She posted the fourth fastest 5K time at Sunken Meadow State Park for Class A girls this season with 19:32.3, a feat accomplished at the Suffolk County Coaches Association Cross Country Invitational on Sept. 29. She also posted the fourth fastest time on the three-mile course, having run 18:35.0. On Oct. 20, East Islip’s girls cross-country squad participated at the annual Brown University Northeast Cross Country Championship at Goddard Memorial State Park in Warwick, R.I, with Ashe leading the way. Running in the event’s championship race, she finished in eighth place, beating many champions from nearby states. Her team competed in the Division II Championships at Sunken Meadow on Oct. 23, but Ashe was unable to participate due to an Achilles tendon strain. Hurricane Sandy played havoc with the cross-country team’s post-season. East Islip’s top seven girls were scheduled to compete in the state qualifier meet at Sunken Meadow on Nov. 2, which was canceled when 350 trees fell in the state park. Section XI officials rescheduled the cross-country state qualifier for Nov. 7, and Ashe was 100 percent healthy and ready to improve her time, but the weather again stepped in. That Wednesday's nor’easter put an end to the state qualifier and the officials decided to select the individual runners for the state team based on the results of the Division Championships. Ashe unfortunately did not compete in that meet and thus did not make the state team, despite excellent recent training. “Boys track coach Jim Marino and I both thought Niamh had a great chance to make the state team,” said East Islip girls track coach Steve Brown. Along with teammates Emily Fusco and Kayla Murphy, Ashe extended her season by running as an independent on Nov. 24 at the prestigious Foot Locker Cross Country Championships Northeast Regional at Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx. She will also have a chance to compete at the state meet again at the end of the winter and spring seasons. “Not only is Niamh an excellent athlete, but she excels in the classroom as well,” said Brown. The senior plans to continue running at the college level and has already been contacted by numerous colleges that would like her to attend. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8047 Mon, 03 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Three members of East Islip’s girls varsity swimming team competed at the Section XI state qualifiers on Nov. 10. At the pool at Suffolk County Community College, senior Amanda Cosby swam the 500 freestyle in 5:54.89 and the 100 breaststroke in 1:17.86, sophomore Julia Llewellyn swam the 100 backstroke in 1:04.63 and the 100 butterfly in 1:01.16, and eighth-grader Natasha Rice swam the 100 backstroke in 1:05.24. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8011 Fri, 30 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The fresh, green smell of pine wafted through the hallways as the East Islip High School Orchestra held its annual Christmas wreath sale on Nov. 30. As in the past (the wreath sale has been a fixture for decades now), the school’s orchestra program worked with a commercial wreath wholesaler to offer double-faced balsam pine wreaths in 2- or 3-foot sizes for either home or office delivery. The proceeds will be used to help fund the orchestra’s Music Scholarship Fund and annual Spring Music Competition trip. “We thank the community again for their support and patronage,” said East Islip High School Orchestra Director Susan W. Rydzeski, who spent all of Friday in the orchestra room working with the students to construct the wreaths. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8013 Fri, 30 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Please see the attachments below for previews of the December 2012 lunch menus for all six schools in the East Islip School District. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7992 Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School's student government and National Junior Honor Society have teamed up to conduct a toy drive to provide gifts for to needy local children. This year’s toy drive will include a homeroom competition during the week of Dec. 3–7 to earn a breakfast party. A gift wrapping/card making event will follow on Thursday, Dec. 13. Students who wish to participate in this community service activity must return a signed permission slip to student representatives by Monday, Dec. 10. Please see the attached flier for more information and a printable permission slip. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7999 Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School held a fundraising walk to help cure juvenile diabetes on Nov. 15. Sponsored by Craving 4 a Cure, the event was originally set to take place outside the school on Nov. 1, but the hurricane and that week’s inclement weather led to a rescheduling and a move indoors. The 60 participants – including Principal Mark Bernard, several teachers and students from grades 6-8 – walked a mile through the hallways of the school and raised a total of $2,828. The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation provided special t-shirts for everyone who took part. Seventh-grader Sophia Gerace was the walk’s top donator, raising $300 for the cause and winning an East Islip school jacket donated by the school store. A close second was Heather McNamara, who raised $295. A pizza party reward awaits all of the participants. “I’d like to give special thanks to Heather McNamara for kicking off our event and talking about juvenile diabetes,” said Diane Perry, a physical education teacher at the school. “Although our Craving 4 a Cure team had fewer participants than had originally signed up, largely due to having to reschedule after Superstorm Sandy, we are extremely happy with the amount of money raised. We all walked a mile and got some exercise in addition to helping raise money to research a cure for juvenile diabetes.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=8004 Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT As part of a required school health examination, a student is weighed and his or her height is measured. These numbers are used to figure out the student’s body mass index (BMI). The BMI helps doctors and nurses know if a student’s weight is in a healthy range or is too high or too low. Recent changes to the New York State Education Law require that BMI and weight status group be included as part of a student’s school health examination. A sample of school districts including East Islip have been selected to take part in a 2012-2013 weight status survey by the New York State Department of Health and will be reporting information about students’ weight status groups. Only summary information is sent, no names or information about individual students. However, parents may choose to have their child’s information excluded from this survey report. Parents who do not wish to have their child’s weight status group information included as part of the Health Department’s survey should print, sign and return the attached opt-out form to their child's school nurse no later than Dec. 15, 2012. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6671 Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School teacher James Connell’s broadcast television and video production classes returned with another electrifying edition of the school’s annual daytime variety show program, “The Embers Coffee House.” Produced live on Nov. 21 in front of appreciative audiences of their classmates, Embers offered dozens of song and skit segments of diverse kinds over the course of several periods, with students managing the lighting, sound, set and cameras. Affable student hosts Stephen Biondi, Lea Briscoe, Alex Konnerth, Brian Potter and Sarah Schreiner ensured that the crowd remained entertained, while Nicole Bove, John Matros, Moira McGrath and Juliet Witkowski served coffee, cookies and pretzels from behind the counter of the cute “coffee shop.” Brendan Bullard served as head producer, contributing mightily to how efficiently and professionally the show was run. “Brendan put a lot of time and energy into the event and was the main reason it was a success,” said Connell. Perhaps the breakout act of Embers Coffee House was local duo At the Corner of Who & What, comprised of vocalist Brandi Smigiel and guitarist Jacob Levesque. The new group, formed after Levesque heard Smigiel sing in last year’s school talent show, performed several times throughout the day, presenting both cover material (Train’s “Drops of Jupiter”) and their own original songs (such as “Sailboats & Wooden Ships”). The pair of young musicians, whose mission statement is “We are dedicated to making music that heals your heart and lifts your soul,” have launched their own website and Facebook band page. At the Corner of Who & What’s next scheduled gig is on Jan. 26 in Holbrook. “I enjoyed performing in front of my peers because they often don’t get the chance to see firsthand the talents that some of their own classmates have,” remarked Levesque. Among the many other highlights were Dalton Jabs’ outrageous lip-sync performance dressed up as Lady Gaga; soulful displays of vocal proficiency from Allesi Bonaventura and Tenaiyah Morgan; a demonstration of beatboxing skills from Chris Abbatepalo; Paul Brett’s instrumental guitar version of Metallica classic “Nothing Else Matters”; poetry readings by Leah Stevens and Rebecca Wiltig; a hilarious acting out of Robert James Hoffman III and Kato Bonner’s legendary “YES Dance” by Biondi and Smigiel; and Erin Geharty’s lovely ukulele-strummed rendition of Death Cab for Cutie’s “I Will Follow You into the Dark.” “I believe this year’s show was really great with a lot of awesome performances,” said Potter. “My only hope is that this tradition will carry on into the future.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7980 Wed, 28 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Thirteen East Islip School District fourth-grade music students – Samantha McNamee, Nicole Piazza, Elizabeth Stewart and Kimberly Turtell from Connetquot Elementary; Hannah Lemp, Olivia Pena and Marie Tohill from Ruth C. Kinney Elementary; and Alexa Catrone, Anthony Graziano, Emma Jakits, Victoria Miller, Frank Naccarato and Noelle Naccarato from Timber Point Elementary – were selected to represent East Islip at the fourth annual Suffolk County Music Educators Association’s PEAK Festival, held Nov. 17 at Northport High School. PEAK (which stands for Parents, Educators and Kids) is a full-day workshop for fourth-graders where students have a chance to sing, dance, play and perform with other students from Suffolk County. "Congratulations to these fine young musicians,” said Connetquot Principal Deborah Smith. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7986 Wed, 28 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Rusy-Bohn Unit No. 411 of the American Legion Auxiliary is sponsoring one girl in her junior year of high school to attend the Girls State program to be held this summer at the College of Brockport. Nominees must meet academic requirements and have demonstrated characteristics of patriotism and leadership. For more information, click here and see Ms. Vincenti in the Guidance Office before Dec. 14. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7958 Tue, 27 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The New York Islanders ice hockey organization paid an inspiring visit to the Ruth C. Kinney Elementary School gym in Islip Terrace on Nov. 14. Focusing on safety, health, physical activity and teamwork, the two Islanders representatives – arena hostess Dina and mascot Sparky – taught students about making smart decisions and working together as a team. The third-graders watched an Islanders video and participated in physical activity, with selected students given the opportunity to conduct an experiment with hockey pucks to prove that challenges can be accomplished with teamwork. “The students were very excited and chanted ‘Islanders, Islanders’ throughout the assembly,” said Bonnie Rabin, RCK’s physical education teacher. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7970 Tue, 27 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Nov. 26, 2012: First-graders Angelina DeAmicis, Adriana Iacono, William Ouk, Gavin Veltman, Joanna Wylie and Ethan Zeledon of Connetquot Elementary First-grader Christopher Pilarski of John F. Kennedy Elementary Kindergartner Mikayla Burke of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Second-grader Nina Walsh of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7972 Tue, 27 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT This year’s Catch-a Career Breakfast was held on Oct. 24 at the Irish Coffee Pub. Presented by the East Islip/Dowling School Business Partnership’s Career Development Committee, the annual event featured dozens of business professionals serving as table facilitators and potential mentors for 85 motivated students at East Islip High School. Susanne Bleiberg Sepersen, the sociology department chairperson of Dowling College, delivered the keynote speech. “It is so rewarding to see students taking advantage of the opportunity to participate in this program,” said teacher Paul McHugh, who facilitates the School Business Partnership. “Having the chance to sit with experienced professionals in their area of career interest provides our students with a tremendous benefit as they begin their career and college preparation. Our business professionals, who generously offer their time, are a unique resource for our students. They can share their knowledge regarding everything from college choice and programs, through finding an internship, to the job outlook and current trends in their industry. I am sure that the students who attended will remember and utilize what they learned today as they move forward in their college and career pursuits.” Students were able to speak directly with such local leaders as Suffolk County Legislator Tom Cilmi; Rockefeller Group Technology Solutions CEO John Tarduno; funeral director James Bruno of Albrecht, Bruno & O'Shea Funeral Homes; attorney Anthony D’Amico; and Andrew Corrado, a senior vice president of marketing for Capital One Bank. Other participating businesses and organizations this year included Suffolk Transportation, North Shore-LIJ Southside Hospital, Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center, Verizon, NextGen Advertising, Motorola Solutions, UBS, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the Town of Islip, Joseph Gabriel AIA Architects, the Foray Agency, the Cleary School, Dowling College and the Nassau, Suffolk and New York City police departments. “This was another fantastic event that provided students with the opportunity to meet and greet professionals in a variety of career fields,” added Israel Malinowitzer, the high school’s guidance director. “There were business leaders, police officers, lawyers, doctors, architects, funeral directors, and officers of large corporations. The students were able to ask questions and listen to the advice that was being offered to them by these professionals. Everyone had a great time and learned a great deal about what these different careers require. Students exchanged emails so that they can continue to communicate with the professionals. Some of these students will be doing their mentoring later on this year, and this meeting provided them with the opportunity to get to know who they will be shadowing for a full day.” “It is through wonderful experiences like the Catch-a-Career Breakfast that our students get the opportunity to speak with professionals in the career field they wish to pursue,” said teacher Bridget Lopiccolo, who manages the school’s mentoring program. “In this economy, it is of utmost importance for students to enter into college with a clear and direct plan so that their college expenses are kept under control and they achieve a positive outcome in the profession they want. Catch-a-Career is the place where our students get an edge and one step closer to their professional goals.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7934 Mon, 26 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Would-be singing stars took to the stage on the evening of Nov. 15 as East Islip Middle School held its fourth annual Music Idol event to benefit the Tri-M Music Honor Society scholarship fund. Presented at the high school auditorium by producers Music Idol Entertainment, the event featured 40 contestants belting out popular songs in search of both prizes and the chance to entertain their classmates and families. Amanda Carey came out ahead as EI’s 2012 Music Idol winner, with Jenna Anderson, John La Francesca, Victoria Mendoza and Sara Rapuzzi earning runner-up status. The other contestants were Jake Acocella, Jacqui Baldino, Claudia Banville, Amanda Baranek, Connor Barnes, Thomas Bergen, Alexandra Bertolini, Sarah Bloom, Kaitlin Brzostek, Amanda Carey, Hannah Christy, Gabriella Commisso, Emily Da Silva, Dominique Degener, Mairead DeVito, Isabel Diesu, Jenna Donnelly, Lauren Florenz, Jackie Ginty, Robert Iadanza, Sarah Iannella, Katie Jeran, Nia Kalodimos, Madison Lane, Julia Lambert, Michael Laraia, Elexa Longo, Heather McNamara, Nicole O’Connor, Sayha Oztas, Angelina Parisi, Jordan Rant, Maggie Ruland, Jessica Sindoni and Douyna Zayer http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7935 Mon, 26 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip's Toddler High program held a Thanksgiving Festival party on Nov. 21. for the toddlers and their families. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7907 Sat, 24 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Gail Rhatigan’s universal pre-kindergarten class at Timber Point Elementary School in East Islip celebrated Thanksgiving with a re-enactment of the first Thanksgiving feast. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7901 Thu, 22 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School held its annual Thanksgiving Feast on Nov. 16, supervised by teacher Kelly Schwender, who runs the school’s Food & Nutrition and Gourmet Foods programs. A mouthwatering array of traditional turkey-centric dishes and beverages were prepared by students and served to school and district staff, family members and special guests as well as their fellow classmates. Giving the event added meaning was a special invitation to veterans of the U.S. armed forces, honoring two holidays: that Monday’s observation of Veterans Day and the following week’s Thanksgiving. Among the local veterans proudly in attendance were members of the Air Force (Chris Gee and former Board of Education trustee Joseph G. Sargent), Army (Robert Nathan and Bernie Phalen), Army National Guard (Patrick Connors) and Navy (Mike Ferraro, Girard Guschel and Bob Uebel). Islip Town Councilman John Cochrane (a former Navy captain) and current enlisted military personnel were on hand to welcome the vets, the latter including Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Rafael Rodriguez and three Marines (Maj. Alexander Gilbert, Staff Sgt. Nathanial Needham and Gunnery Sgt. Verlin Worlow). “Once again, Mrs. Schwender did a fantastic job putting together our annual Thanksgiving Feast with the help of our culinary students in her classes,” remarked Israel Malinowitzer, the school’s director of careers and student services. “In addition, we were privileged to host and honor our veterans for their years of service to our country. I thank all the students and Mrs. Schwender for another job well done.” Click here to see a student-filmed video feature on the high school's Thanksgiving Feast. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7905 Wed, 21 Nov 2012 10:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education honored top students and top artists at its regular monthly meeting on Nov. 15, and discussed the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. First up was a tribute to the artistic accomplishments of the district’s students whose work appeared in the pages of the 2012-2013 district calendar. East Islip’s director of art and music, Stephen Guarino, presented a colorful slideshow of the artwork, available to view as attachment below. Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello then introduced East Islip High School Principal William Brennen, who recognized the school’s top 10 ranked seniors. “The students take it to another level academically,” Brennen said. He also honored their community involvement, noting that 9 of the 10 were in attendance at the board meeting. A main focus of Finello’s report to the Board was an overview of the effects of and responses to Hurricane Sandy in the East Islip school community. “All of us have stories and personal experiences about the storm,” Finello said. “We are lucky our buildings remained intact, though we lost four days of instructional time.” Daniel Friedman, the district’s executive director for student data, assessment and technological services, spoke on the tech side, stating that the district had prepared well for Hurricane Sandy, shutting down computers and nonessential servers on the Monday prior to the storm. Eric Woellhof, East Islip’s plant and facilities administrator, relayed that the district’s infrastructure had not suffered much damage. “All we lost was metal coping on the roofs,” he said. Assistant Superintendent for Business Carl Fraser spoke about the district’s post-Sandy free breakfast and lunch program for the four days of Nov. 6-9, paid for through a school lunch fund surplus (independent of the district's general fund budget) rather than district monies. “Overall the response was tremendous,” he said, noting the enthusiastic response to the program. The district served 1100 more breakfasts than normal over those four days, and 3,251 more lunches. Attendance was also solid. Fraser described it as “on par with our normal rate,” citing a 96 percent districtwide attendance rate for those four days compared to an identical 96 percent average daily attendance rate for the 2011-12 school year. In regards to changes to the school calendar in order to make up for the three remaining lost instructional days (one of them was made up on Election Day), Finello said, “We are waiting for guidance from the state on dealing with these days.” The Board approved one new policy, No. 5300.60 – Visitors to Schools, and two others (No. 6450 – Accounting of Funds and No. 5151 – New Entrant Elementary Student Placement) were recommended. Two high school field trips in April were also approved (one for French students to visit Quebec, Canada and another for the Career Academy’s Bahamas trip) as well as two donations (a clarinet for the music department and a 1998 Chevrolet Suburban van from Suffolk Transportation System for the use of the buildings and grounds crew). Alise Becker-Santa, the assistant superintendent for instruction and personnel, presented the certified and noncertified personnel reports, which were approved. Among the staff changes was the administrative resignation of Friedman, whose exemplary assessments and technical work was lauded by Becker-Santa. “Dan did a tremendous job for us,” she said. Also announced were the retirement of Timber Point school teacher aide Vivian Kelly, two new coaches (Robert Cheadle for the varsity bowling program and Melissa Palumbo for the junior varsity cheerleading team), and 13 club and adviser appointments, all of those 13 positions funded by donations and grants from organizations such as the East Islip Athletic Booster Club, eiMAPs and the For the Kids Foundation. The East Islip Board of Education will hold its next regular monthly meeting on Dec. 13 at 8 p.m. The meeting will be held in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7902 Wed, 21 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip’s winter concert season is almost nigh, as schools throughout the district prepare to showcase their excellent young musicians. All concerts (see below schedule) will be held at the East Islip High School auditorium. Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2012, 10 a.m. Timber Point Elementary School Daytime Winter Concert 7 p.m. Timber Point Elementary School Winter Concert Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2012, 7 p.m. John F. Kennedy Elementary School Winter Concert Thursday, Dec. 6, 2012, 7 p.m. Connetquot Elementary School Winter Concert Monday, Dec. 10, 2012, 7 p.m. East Islip Middle School Winter Concert I Sixth-Grade Orchestra Sixth-Grade Band Sixth-Grade Chorus Seventh-Grade Girls Chorus Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012, 7 p.m. East Islip Middle School Winter Concert II Seventh/Eighth-Grade Band Seventh/Eighth-Grade Orchestra Concert Choir Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2012, 7 p.m. Ruth C. Kinney Elementary School Winter Concert Monday, Dec. 17, 2012, 7:30 p.m. East Islip High School Winter Concert I String Orchestra Women’s Choir Concert Choir Wind Ensemble Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2012, 7:30 p.m. East Islip High School Winter Concert II Symphony Orchestra Honors Choir Concert Band http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7898 Wed, 21 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The entire Timber Point Elementary community gathered on the morning of Nov. 19 to officially celebrate the school’s sterling recent achievement, Timber Point’s 2012 National Blue Ribbon School Award. Students and staff alike were brightly bedecked in blue, proud to be part of this superlative honor, one achieved by only 268 other American schools this year. “Being selected as a Blue Ribbon School is an honor of distinction for which we are extremely proud,” remarked Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello. “Congratulations to the Timber Point community.” The award celebration began in the school cafeteria with student council members Hannah Calarco and Tyler O’Neill leading the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a rousing rendition of “America the Beautiful” by Timber Point’s chorus, directed by Kathleen Carter. Timber Point Principal Lisa Belz addressed the audience, thanking them for their support, as did the preceding speaker, Timber Point PTA President Jamie Steves. Suffolk County Legislator Tom Cilmi then took to the podium to present Belz with an honorary proclamation. Under the skillful direction of Lynda Maniscalco, the school’s band played “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” followed by an entertaining performance of “Bohemian Stomp” by the Timber Point Orchestra, directed by Jaime DeMaria. After the presentation of fourth- and fifth-grade student essays, a giant blue ribbon work of art, and a video montage (viewable below), Belz introduced Margaret Harper, the former principal of Timber Point for over 20 years, who noted the many years of hard work and effort needed to attain the Blue Ribbon Award. All present – including members of East Islip’s central office administration and Board of Education – then strolled outside to the school flagpole, where Superintendent Finello raised the National Blue Ribbon School flag to wave below the Stars and Stripes. The flag and a plaque had been presented to Belz and Timber Point fifth-grade teacher Carol Wilson when they attended the National Blue Ribbon recognition ceremony on Nov. 12-13 in Washington, D.C. On the return walk to their classrooms, students cheered and waved yet again as another Blue Ribbon banner was unfurled from the school rooftop. “The whole ceremony was wonderful,” said Belz. “It was amazing to see all of the Timber Point students and staff in their blue shirts. It was an exciting day for everyone and a day we will not soon forget.” “This is a great honor for Timber Point Elementary School,” added Board of Education President Ken Cronin. “Congratulations to Dr. Belz, the teachers and support staff, and the students and their parents. I would also like to thank Mrs. Harper for providing the foundation for this achievement.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7851 Tue, 20 Nov 2012 16:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Nov. 19, 2012: Fourth-grader Brooke Rizzuto of John F. Kennedy Elementary Fourth-graders Mia Oquendo and Ariana Silverman of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7862 Tue, 20 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT During the Thanksgiving break, the East Islip varsity and junior varsity wrestling teams will practice from 9-11 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 23 and Saturday, Nov. 24. Regular practices during the winter wrestling season will be held from 3:30-5:30 p.m. every day during the week and 9-11 a.m on Saturdays. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7866 Tue, 20 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School National Honor Society will hold its annual Applebee's Flapjack Fundraiser breakfast on Jan. 13. Please see the attached flier for more information. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7870 Tue, 20 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s Shannon Cummings will play lacrosse for Ohio State University's Buckeyes next year. The Lady Redmen standout signed a National Letter of Intent on Nov. 16, accompanied by her Brutus Buckeye mascot and surrounded by a proud group of supporters including Cummings’ sister; her parents, Rose and Jim Cummings; Principal William Brennen; Athletic Director Stephen Restivo; and East Islip’s girls lacrosse coach, Steven Levy. “Because of her work ethic, she will be very successful at Ohio State,” said Levy, who has coached Shannon since she was in fifth grade. While the East Islip senior toured Ohio State’s campus in Columbus three times, the school’s competitive but family-oriented program seemed like the place for her from the very first visit. “I visited a few schools but when I went to Ohio and saw the atmosphere, I knew it was the right fit,” she said. “The players are close and the coaches are nice.” “Ohio State is definitely about family and team spirit,” added Rose Cummings. “It will be an extension of what Steve Levy has taught her at East Islip.” Shannon hasn’t decided what to major in yet, but is interested in studying physical education and athletic training, and might minor in business. “Shannon is a very well-rounded student,” remarked Restivo. “She also played soccer and is a Scholar-Athlete with a high GPA as well as a five-year varsity player.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7882 Tue, 20 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Third-grade students at Timber Point Elementary in East Islip participated in the school’s second annual Spread the Bread event, baking fragrant loaves of pumpkin, corn and banana bread with the help of teachers and parent volunteers for the benefit of needy Lindenhurst residents uprooted by Hurricane Sandy. “As part of our November character education trait of citizenship, and to celebrate the season of Thanksgiving, we donated the breads to the Lindenhurst community as part of the Hurricane Sandy relief efforts,” said Timber Point teacher Christine Vaglica. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7883 Tue, 20 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School alumni are invited to visit the high school on Wednesday, Nov. 21 between 12:15-2:15 p.m. Alumni should sign in as visitors in the main lobby and proceed to the high school library. Faculty, staff and students will be able to visit with the alumni in the library. Alumni will not be permitted to go to classrooms unless accompanied by a faculty member. "We look forward to greeting all our recent alumni and catching up on their adventures since graduation," said Principal William Brennen. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7845 Mon, 19 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Despite numerous terrific plays and a strong display of athleticism, East Islip’s varsity football team fell short to North Babylon in a Suffolk II semifinal playoff matchup on Nov. 17. The Redmen led 20-14 at halftime, but the visiting Bulldogs overcame this deficit to win 52-41. While the team did not make it out of the second round of the playoffs, 2012-13 will still be remembered as a great season for the EI football program, one that exceeded expectations and provided memorable lessons and moments of teamwork and good sportsmanship. Photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7848 Mon, 19 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The aftereffects of Hurricane Sandy and the subsequent fuel shortages may have complicated matters for East Islip High School’s holiday food drive, held each year on the Thursday before Thanksgiving, but altruistic students and community members did not falter in their quest to provide food for the needy. In the past, teams of students from the student council, STARS and the other school clubs have visited nearly every household in the East Islip, Islip Terrace and Great River community on the weekend before the food drive, delivering fliers asking for donations of frozen turkeys and nonperishable food items on behalf of those in need. They then return to those houses on the following Thursday evening to pick up donated food “trick-or-treat” style. Vehicles from local churches and food pantries wait in the high school parking lot as the students return with the collected donations. This year the students were unable to drive around the community to drop off fliers or pick up the donations, so they only left the requests and returned to collect donations on foot from households within walking distance of the school. Community members who resided further away were asked to deliver their donations to the staging area near the gym entrance in the high school parking lot, and on the night of Nov. 15, the cars, trucks and bags of food poured in from all over the East Islip School District. “It was an incredible experience,” said student council adviser Frances Li. “I am so proud of my kids and so humbled by the district’s response to those in need. It is amazing how many people worked together to help others. This is what teaching is all about – learning and helping each other.” “Many of our local churches depend on our food drive to help feed our community members during the holidays, and the relief efforts associated with Hurricane Sandy put an additional burden on our local food pantries, so this year’s drive was extremely important,” added East Islip High School Principal William Brennen. “On behalf of everyone at East Islip High School, we thank those who participated and contributed for their continued kindness, generosity and support of our community.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7830 Fri, 16 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip face North Babylon tomorrow in the second round of the Suffolk Division II playoffs. Kickoff at East Islip's Boomer Esiason Stadium is at 1:30 p.m. Section XI is charging $6 admission. The game will be aired live on MSG Varsity. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7762 Fri, 16 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT A change of venue did little to dampen participation in the annual Redmen 5K Run/Walk, sponsored by the East Islip Athletic Booster Club. The event, originally scheduled for Nov. 4 at Heckscher State Park, was instead held on Nov. 11 at the East Islip High School track, due to extensive hurricane damage at Heckscher. Wil Widman of North Babylon was the top male finisher with a time of 17:35, while Bellport's Andrea Russo won the title of top female runner, finishing in 18:53. The local youth contingent proved to be strong contestants, with East Islip resident Alex Deveglio the top runner in the 15-19 age group with a time of 19:01 and Great River’s Caleb Shulman finishing in 21:59 to become the 5K’s first 14-and-under finisher. Proceeds from the race, which was preceded by a Kids Fun Run, will be used toward scholarship awards for graduating East Islip seniors. “Thank you to all the sponsors and volunteers,” said Booster Club spokesperson Jessica Carney, “and congratulations to all who participated.” Photos by John Carney http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7805 Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s varsity field hockey team fought hard in its Suffolk Class A two-game playoff run last weekend, beating Centereach but ultimately falling to Bay Shore in double overtime. The Nov. 10 contest against Centereach’s Cougars, played in East Islip, yielded a 3-0 shutout for the home team. Scoring for East Islip (ranked No. 2) were Nicole Levy (twice) and Alexa Martino, with assists from Juliette Polis and Emily Cassar. The next day’s game, also at home, proved more difficult, as the Lady Redmen and Bay Shore Marauders (ranked No. 3) battled to a 1-1 tie during regulation. Bay Shore (who would go on to lose the finals to Sachem East on Nov. 12) finally scored with 7:42 left in the second overtime, ending East Islip’s spirited playoff run. Brianna DeMeo scored EI’s sole goal, assisted by Kendall Allmendinger, while goalie Arianna Kreush made 14 saves. Photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7807 Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s annual holiday food drive will be held tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 15. As previously announced, donations from community members who received a flier last weekend will be picked up by a representative from the school. Those residents should leave all donations outside their doors for pickup between 5-8 p.m. Community members who did not receive fliers or who reside in the Great River area should drop their donations off at the high school between the hours of 4 p.m. and 8 p.m., as they will not be picked up by a school representative. “On behalf of everyone at East Islip High School, we thank you for your continued kindness, generosity and support of our community,” said Principal William Brennen. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7790 Wed, 14 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The family and consumer science department at East Islip Middle School came up with an inventive way to help victims of Hurricane Sandy. The “Bags of Love” program involved a districtwide collection of hotel-size toiletries such as shampoo, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, hand sanitizer, lotions, lip balm and baby powder. Items donated by students, teachers, parents and community members were separated into boxes, then inserted into special drawstring bags created by students at the middle school. These “bags of love” were made from washcloths, using sewing skills the students had learned in the classrooms of FACS teachers Rena Costello, Dani Franzese and Patricia Emmons Fritz. Over 300 bags were constructed as of the charity drive’s Nov. 9 deadline. “This way, people in need could not only get toiletries but a washcloth too,” said Franzese. “This was basically a service learning project that involved the entire school.” “As part of the family and consumer science curriculum, the students learn about the topic of ‘community connections,’” explained Fritz. “The purpose is to provide opportunities for students to apply leadership and integrate knowledge, skills and practices acquired through classroom instruction. The students enhance their learning through positive actions and analyze the impact of participation in community activities on their families and community.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7795 Wed, 14 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The For the Kids Foundation of East Islip is sponsoring a Hurricane Sandy Toy Drive to benefit the children in the Lindenhurst School District. “In East Islip, Islip Terrace and Great River, we were very fortunate to have been spared the most devastating effects of Hurricane Sandy,” said FTK Vice President Pat Blair. “Unfortunately, our neighbors in Lindenhurst were not so lucky. Many homes were lost, possessions destroyed and lives forever altered. In the spirit of the upcoming holiday season, FTK is holding a toy drive for the children in the Lindenhurst School District.” FTK is seeking donations of unopened toys or gift cards for children in kindergarten through 12th grade, with suitable examples being board games, puzzles, dolls, sports equipment, video games (Nintendo, Wii, Xbox), or gift cards for iTunes, Target, Sports Authority and Modell’s Sporting Goods. Those who are unable to purchase a toy but would like to participate in the drive can donate directly to FTK, which will then handle purchase of the items. Donations can be dropped off during this weekend’s East Islip PTSA Craft Fair, which is being held November 17-18 at East Islip Middle School. FTK will have a table at the Craft Fair to collect the donations. “FTK will be coordinating with our very own trustee, Frank Naccarato, who is the principal of Lindenhurst Middle School and a resident of East Islip, for the delivery of these donations,” added Blair. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7763 Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School's athletic department will hold Fall Sports Awards Night on Wednesday, Dec. 19. Parents and family members are strongly encouraged to attend. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7746 Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Nov. 12, 2012: Mrs. Eskedal’s third-grade class of Connetquot Elementary Fifth-grader Alexis Barber of John F. Kennedy Elementary First-grader Mackenzie Yuska of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary First-grader Sophie Jensen of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7748 Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Avenging their only regular season loss (a 13-10 defeat on Oct. 13), East Islip’s varsity football squad intercepted visiting Smithtown West five times on the way to a crushing 23-0 shutout in the first round of the Suffolk Division II playoffs on Nov. 10. The Redmen got on the board in the quarterfinal game’s second quarter with an 11-yard touchdown catch by Paul Dondero. Manhandling the Bulls, East Islip racked up 17 points in the fourth quarter, including rushing TDs by Andre Deegan and Matt Drywa and a field goal courtesy of Matt Walter. East Islip will face North Babylon in the second round. The 1:30 p.m. home game is set for Saturday, Nov. 17 Section XI will charge $6 admission and the game will be aired live on MSG Varsity. Photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7760 Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Today's girls varsity soccer playoff contest against Northport will take place at 2 p.m. at Northport Soccer Park. See the attachment for directions to the game. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7627 Fri, 09 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Hurricane Sandy may have postponed Halloween festivities for East Islip High School’s long-running Toddler High program, but the costumes and candy came out on the morning of Nov. 6 as tykes trick-or-treated in the school corridors. Toddler High pairs local preschoolers with high school juniors and seniors for thrice-weekly two-hour sessions of arts and crafts, puppet and game board play, reading, and math. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7668 Fri, 09 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT BOYS CROSS-COUNTRY West Islip defeated EI, 22-37, on Oct. 16 at Sunken Meadow. BOYS VARSITY SOCCER East Islip and Newfield ended their Oct. 15 contest with a 2-2 tie in spite of EI goalie Frank Noviello’s 10-save performance. Scorers for EI were Nolan Ferrin (1 goal, 1 assist), Zack Acocella (1 goals) and Danny Munar (1 assist). West Islip beat East Islip, 3-1, on Oct. 17. Noviello made 4 saves. EI’s sole goal came from Steven Braccioforte. Brady Benitez added an assist. East Islip lost 2-0 to Smithtown West on Oct. 20, with Noviello making 3 saves. The team shut out Centereach, 1-0, on Oct. 22. Scoring for East Islip was Andrew Dobkowski, assisted by Munar. East Islip were in turn shut out by Smithtown East on Oct. 24, 6-0. Noviello notched 5 saves, and fellow EI goalie Jake Hirx made 1. An Oct. 27 Suffolk AA first-round playoff contest against Huntington yielded a 1-1 tie, with Huntington converting a penalty kick and advancing. VARSITY FIELD HOCKEY East Islip fell to Bay Shore, 2-1, on Oct. 16. Nicole Levy scored the sole goal for EI, with goalie Arianna Kreush making 9 saves. Two days later on Oct. 18, East Islip crushed Babylon, shutting their opponents out 6-0. EI scorers were Alexa Martino (3 goals, 1 assist), Rachel Baio (2 goals), Courtney Bernardini (1 goal, 1 assist), Kelli Wilbert (1 assists), Emily Cassar (1 assist), Carlee Ancona (1 assist) and Brianna DeMeo (1 assist). Goalie Jordan Catanzaro made 4 saves; Kreush made 2. An Oct. 23 match against West Islip resulted in a 3-0 EI victory. Scorers for EI were Levy (1 goal, 1 assists), Bernardini (1 goal, 1 assist) and Martino (1 goal). Kreush made 4 saves. VARSITY FOOTBALL The Redmen continued their winning ways in an Oct. 20 game against Smithtown East, winning 35-21. East Islip QB Casey Nolan rushed for 79 yards and 2 touchdowns on 15 carries and was 6-for-10 passing for 84 yards. Andre Deegan ran for 115 yards and 2 TDs on 16 carries. Mike Lee caught a 15-yard touchdown pass. The team won again on Oct. 27, downing Half Hollow Hills West, 28-7. Deegan rushed 15 times gaining 80 yards and a touchdown. Nolan threw 10 passes, completing 7 for 103 yards and a TD, while running for 22 yards including a second TD. Kieren Neefeldt notched 6 six tackles, a fumble recovery and a sack. Matt Walter went 4-for-4 on extra-point conversions. GIRLS CROSS-COUNTRY An Oct. 16 meet at Sunken Meadow resulted in a West Islip victory over EI, 26-29. Niamh Ashe took first place for EI with a time of 18 minutes, 35 seconds. GIRLS GYMNASTICS In a League III contest on Oct. 22, East Islip beat Copiague, 135.85-92.15. East Islip’s gymnastics squad won again on Oct. 25, defeating Middle Country by a 144.40-133.90 score. EI was led by Elizabeth Sallie, Rachel Silsdorf and Jaycie Snider, who each scored 8.35 on the balance beam. GIRLS VARSITY SOCCER EI shut out Smithtown East, 5-0, on Oct. 16, led by Sydney Cammeyer’s 2 goals. Other EI scorers were Kayla Saager (1 goal, 1 assist), Caileigh Apicella (1 goal), Shannon Cumming (1 goal), Mackenzie Houghton (1 assist) and Brianna Hernandez (1 assists). EI goalie Kiersten Conway made 1 save. An Oct. 18 game against Smithtown West also resulted in an EI shutout, with 2-0 being the final score. Conway made 5 saves, and scorers were Saager (1 goal, 1 assist), Kayla Roundsman (1 goal) and Cumming (1 assist). Centereach was next to fall to East Islip’s team. The Oct. 23 game yielded a 2-1 EI victory, with Conway making 4 saves. Scoring for EI were Roundsman (1 goal), Cummings (1 goal) and Saager (2 assists). Yet another EI shutout came on Oct. 27, in the first round of the playoffs. The team beat Kings Park, 1-0, on a Saager goal. Conway made 8 saves. GIRLS VARSITY TENNIS In the Oct. 15 Suffolk Division II Tournament at East Islip, Karen Serina (East Islip) beat Stef Ebow (Sayville), 6-4, 6-1, to win the singles final. An Oct. 25 second-round playoff game ended in a 4-3 East Islip victory over East Hampton. Serina defeated Abby Okin, 6-0, 6-2, in the deciding first singles match. The next day saw East Islip defeat Ross in the quarterfinals. The final score of the Oct. 26 match was 4-3, with Marissa Corrado and Shelby Klyne defeating Kendall Scala and Alyana Jaffe, 6-3, 5-7, 6-4 in the deciding second doubles match. Facing Half Hollow Hills in the semifinals on Oct. 27, East Islip fell, 7-0. Vanessa Scott defeated Serina, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 at first singles. GIRLS VOLLEYBALL East Islip shut out Newfield, 3-0, on Oct. 15. Kelsey Fileccia had 10 kills and 6 aces, Brianna Heffernan had 7 kills and 8 aces, and Cathy Marku had 6 kills and 4 blocks. Another shutout occurred on Oct. 17, with EI beating West Islip, 3-0. Feliccia had 18 kills and Sarah Varnot had 25 assists, 5 aces and 2 blocks. Continuing the team’s streak, East Islip blanked Centereach, 3-0, on Oct. 24. Brianna Baier had 8 kills, 6 digs and 5 aces. Hannah Reilly had 10 kills and 4 aces. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7670 Fri, 09 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School's annual Chinese auction will take place on Nov. 30 in the school's cafeteria, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Admission is $15, which includes a sheet of 25 tickets and one door prize ticket. See the attached flier for more information. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7671 Fri, 09 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students across the East Islip School District honored Red Ribbon Week from Oct. 22-26 in an annual program focused on drug awareness. The culmination of the weeklong program came on Oct. 26, when East Islip High School’s Students Against Destructive Decisions Club traveled to all four elementary schools in honor of Red Ribbon Week. During the visits to fifth-grade classrooms at Connetquot, John F. Kennedy, Ruth C. Kinney and Timber Point schools, SADD members spoke about the importance of drug awareness and making wise choices, teaching the younger students effective ways to say no to drugs. The high schoolers helped the fifth-graders participate in a ribbon contest, providing them with the opportunity to create a catchy anti-drug slogan for their ribbon. One winner per school will be chosen to receive a $25 gift certificate to Friendly’s and a backpack for their winning ribbon. SADD will announce the winners at the Dec. 13 Board of Education meeting. “We had a wonderful day speaking to all the fifth-graders in the district and were impressed by the students’ commitment to stay drug-free forever,” said SADD adviser Bridget Lopiccolo. “I think the SADD members participating in this program did a wonderful job – they were excellent role models for the fifth-graders.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7674 Fri, 09 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Due to recent circumstances surrounding the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, all four of East Islip's elementary schools will not be hosting their annual Veterans Day celebrations (originally scheduled for RCK on Nov. 8, JFK and Timber Point on Nov. 9, and Connetquot on Nov. 13). http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7632 Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School student Michael Stevens was recently selected to perform at the New York State School Music Association’s seventh annual Piano Showcase to be held in Rochester, N.Y. on Nov. 30. The process of selection for this prestigious All-State recital is very competitive, requiring all applicants to have received a perfect score on a Level 6 NYSSMA solo audition. Stevens had achieved this score every year since his first eligibility in third grade, only to be selected as an alternate each year. This year the eighth-grader was finally chosen to be one of only 13 All-Staters out of a statewide pool of 87 applicants in grades 4-12. Stevens began his piano studies at the age of five, studying with Nancy Sessions and later with Joan Horn. Eventually he was invited to perform at two Long Island Philharmonic Master Classes – first at age 8 with Norman Krieger and then at age 10 with Seymour Lipkin – while he was a student at East Islip’s John F. Kennedy Elementary School. He has also won acclaim for his horn musicianship, and as a sixth-grader, won the overall first prize at the 2011 Northeast Horn Festival concerto competition held at the University of New Hampshire, outpacing high school and college students alike. He was the recipient of the 2011 Gretchen Snedeker Memorial Scholarship at the New York Summer Music Festival, where he was the first student ever to win both of NYSMF’s student recital competitions on two different instruments (horn and piano). This past year, Stevens was a finalist in the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra concerto competition and the LISMA International Music Competition. Most recently, he received the 2011 Dianne Flagello Scholarship and the 2012 Dorothy Hales Gary Scholarship at the Manhattan School of Music Precollege, where he double-majors in horn and piano (studying piano with Summit Music Festival artistic director Efrem Briskin and horn with the New York Metropolitan Opera orchestra’s Barbara Jöstlein Currie). Stevens currently serves as first horn of both the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of New York and the Manhattan School of Music Precollege Philharmonic Orchestra. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7634 Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Please note this week's updated playoff schedule for East Islip's sports teams: GIRLS VOLLEYBALL Opponent: Longwood Location: East Islip Date: Thursday, Nov. 8 Time: 4 p.m. GIRLS SOCCER Opponent: Northport Location: Northport Date: Friday, Nov. 9 Time: 2 p.m. FIELD HOCKEY Opponent: TBA Location: East Islip Date: Saturday, Nov. 10 Time: 1 p.m. FOOTBALL Opponent: Smithtown West Location: East Islip Date: Saturday, Nov. 10 Time: 1 p.m. For updated dates and times, visit Section XI and click on brackets. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7531 Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Middle School’s student government and National Junior Honor Society teamed up recently to host two fun-filled educational activities to benefit a local food pantry. Movie Night on Oct. 26 found students enjoying an evening at school watching the classic Halloween-themed film, “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” In lieu of an admission fee, all of the attendees brought in at least three nonperishable food items to donate. The second event took place on Election Day. The middle school’s students had an opportunity to participate in the democratic process and vote for the presidential candidate of their choice by bringing in a nonperishable food item and placing it in one of two boxes, depending on their choice for president. Each student who brought in a food item and cast a vote was entered into a raffle for a Target gift card. The school’s mock election results mirrored the national election, with President Obama claiming a 53 percent majority of the votes and candidate Mitt Romney receiving 47 percent. The winner of the raffle prize was Gregory Cassiano. A total of 11 large boxes of food items were collected through these two events for donation to the St. Mary’s food pantry. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7639 Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT To help the victims of Hurricane Sandy, the East Islip Middle School’s FACS department is putting together "Bags of Love" and are looking for donations. They are collecting hotel-size toiletries such as: new washcloths or dishcloths, shampoo, soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste, deodorant, hand sanitizer, lotion, lip balm, and baby powder. Donations should be brought to any FACS teacher by Friday, Nov. 12. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7641 Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Redmen 5K Run/Walk, sponsored by the East Islip Athletic Booster Club and originally set for Nov. 4, has been rescheduled for Sunday, Nov. 11 at 9:30 a.m. (with the Kids Fun Run at 9 a.m.). The event will also be changing location due to extensive hurricane damage at Heckscher State Park. This year's Redmen 5K will be held instead at the East Islip High School track and East Islip Middle School field. Late registration and packet pickup will be available starting at 8 a.m. on Sunday at the high school track. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6836 Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT All afternoon and evening activities for the East Islip schools are canceled for this evening, Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2012. After-school childcare will remain open until 6 p.m. Middle school and high school late buses will not be running. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7601 Wed, 07 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s annual holiday food drive will be held as scheduled next Thursday, Nov. 15. However, due to complications associated with Hurricane Sandy and the current fuel shortage, the school is asking the community for additional help. In the past, students have delivered fliers to nearly every house in the community asking for donations, and then picked up those donations on the day of the food drive. Due to the current fuel shortage, food drive participants will not be able to drive around the community to pick up the donations. The school is therefore asking for assistance in two areas. First, as this message only reaches those community members who have children in East Islip’s schools, readers are asked to please spread the word about the changes contained within this message to their friends and neighbors. Second, the school is asking community members who do not receive fliers to please deliver their donations to the high school between 4-8 p.m. on Nov. 15. Donations can be dropped off at the staging area near the gym entrance in the high school parking lot. “We regret that we cannot pick up donations from every home,” said Principal William Brennen, “but in lieu of the gas shortage we have no choice but to ask for your help.” Residents who live within walking distance of the high school will still receive donation fliers and representatives from the school will still pick up their donations sometime between 5-8 p.m. on Nov. 15. “As always, your support for our annual food drive is greatly appreciated,” added Brennen. “Many of our local churches depend on our food drive to help feed our community members during the holidays. Additionally, the relief efforts associated with Hurricane Sandy have put an additional burden on our local food pantries, so this year’s drive is extremely important. Once again, we thank you for your generosity, support and kindness during this holiday season.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7603 Wed, 07 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT In light of recovery from last week's hurricane, the East Islip Board of Education has rescheduled this week's regular monthly meeting to Nov. 15 at 8 p.m. The meeting will be held in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7562 Tue, 06 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip PTA Council Blood Drive was held on Nov. 6 from 2-8 p.m. at the district administration building's first floor cafeteria at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Ave. in Islip Terrace. The effort was made even more crucial due to the New York Blood Center being short 6000 units of blood as a result of Hurricane Sandy. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7563 Tue, 06 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School's fundraising walk to help cure juvenile diabetes (sponsored by Craving 4 a Cure and originally scheduled for Nov. 1) will now take place on Nov. 15. The walk will be held inside the middle school in case of cold/inclement weather. Registration will take place in the auditorium at 3 p.m. School representatives have asked supporters to continue to collect donations and bring them on Nov. 15. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7441 Tue, 06 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School Parent Teacher Student Association will present its 26th annual Craft Fair on Nov. 17-18, benefiting the PTSA Scholarship Fund. The fair, which runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, is now being held at East Islip Middle School. It will boast over 100 exhibitors as well as gift basket raffles and the famous "PTSA Meatball Sub."Admission is free. Discounted tables are available for fundraising groups at a fee of only $10 per day. For more information, please contact chairpersons Margaret Burnham or Sandy Clyne. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7074 Tue, 06 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Due to the extreme strain being placed on East Islip families as a result of the storm, the East Islip Board of Education will be providing free breakfast and lunch to all district students from Tuesday through Friday of this week. “The ongoing impact of the storm, especially in terms of the gas shortage, is placing great pressure on families,” said Board of Education President Ken Cronin. “Between waiting on line for gas, suffering through extreme traffic, or having little food in the house due to the lengthy power outage, our families are really stretched. This is something that the school district can do to help ease the burden until normalcy returns.” The meals will be paid for through a surplus that exists in the district's school lunch fund, which is independent of the district’s general fund budget. No district monies will be used for this effort. There is nothing that families have to do in order to take advantage of this opportunity. “We are hopeful that this effort can help the families of East Islip get back into a normal routine,” said President Cronin. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7538 Mon, 05 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students in Eric Bruckner’s AP Government class at East Islip High School – including seniors James Burke, Mike Jocks and Sarah Schreiner – were treated to an election-season talk with U.S. Rep. Peter King on Oct. 25. “Long Island is the oldest suburb in the country,” said the congressman, situating the attentive students within a local historical framework. King, who has served New York's 3rd congressional district since 1993, had joined them in the school’s library to discuss the presidential campaign and his role as a surrogate for Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney. The congressman delved into immigration policy, partisanship and regional differences in politics before taking mature, hard-hitting questions from the students, who inquired about everything from King’s opinion on Attorney General Eric Holder and “Operation Fast and Furious” to the New York congressman’s past ties to the Irish Republic Army and his thoughts on Islam and terrorism. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7544 Mon, 05 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Nov. 7 NYSCAME All-County rehearsal has been canceled. Please note the following message from NYSCAME President Paul Weber: Given the amount of homes that still have no power, the number of schools still closed, the gas crisis and the impending Nor'easter forecast, the first NYSCAME/Suffolk - SCMEA All-County rehearsal scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 7 is canceled. As I am unable to access my district files, a letter concerning information pertaining to the remaining two rehearsals and concert will follow. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7525 Mon, 05 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT All buildings in East Islip School District are currently operational, and all district phones are working. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7528 Mon, 05 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Nov. 5, 2012: Second-grader Sierah Vicinanza of John F. Kennedy Elementary Fourth-grader Ryann Youngberg of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7636 Mon, 05 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The SAT examinations scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 3 at East Islip High School will not be administered due to the storm. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7500 Fri, 02 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The EJ Autism Foundation's third annual Black Tie Hoodie Event, originally scheduled for Nov. 1, was postponed due to storm damage and flooding at the event venue, Captain Bill's in Bay Shore. The fundraising event at Captain Bill's will now be held on Dec. 3 from 7-10 p.m. As before, proceeds will help provide funding for EJ Autism’s work in supporting children with special needs in the East Islip School District. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6835 Fri, 02 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District invites parents and community members to a special informational presentation at the district office boardroom on Nov. 29 regarding the Dignity for All Students Act, also known as DASA. The 6:30 p.m. workshop, titled “A Collaboration Against Harassment and Discrimination,” will be presented by Eric Freidman, a National School of Character recipient. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7440 Fri, 26 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Three of East Islip's athletic squads have already made the playoffs for the fall season. Dates and times for upcoming playoff games are as follows: BOYS SOCCER East Islip vs. Huntington on Oct. 27 at 3:30 p.m. at East Islip. GIRLS SOCCER East Islip vs. Kings Parkon Oct. 27 at 2 p.m. at East Islip. FIELD HOCKEY East Islip vs. TBA on Oct. 31 at 2:30 p.m. at East Islip. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7442 Fri, 26 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Scarecrows sit, awaiting Timber Point Elementary School's annual Harvest Festival. Each class at the school created a special scarecrow for the autumnal Oct. 26 event. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7444 Fri, 26 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT “This was a true Halloween fright night bash,” said Career Academy director Israel Malinowitzer, referring to this year’s Halloween Family Fun Night at East Islip High School, held on Oct. 25. The school’s second annual trick-or-treating extravaganza for children age 10 and younger, it was hosted by the school’s kickline team and the East Islip Environment Green and International Business Globalization Career Academies. Over 60 costumed students from both organization ran game tables, stirred up some scares in a haunted house maze (designed by the high schoolers themselves) and handed out candy to the children of East Islip’s elementary schools as well as younger partygoers. Another student, Robert Walters, served as the DJ, providing Halloween-themed music and initiating a fun-filled hour of dancing and singing for the little ones, who learned a variety of novelty dances from their elders, including the electric slide, the chicken dance, the limbo and the hokey pokey. “Once again, this event was a huge success and parents and children spent a safe evening collecting candy, playing games, dancing and singing,” said Malinowitzer, who supervised the event with kickline coach Denise Naccarato. “There were many young children at this event and they had a wonderful time interacting with the high school students. We thank our Career Academy teachers, the students and their parents who came out to man the doors, serve the snacks and participate in all of the activities that evening.” All proceeds from Halloween Family Fun Night will benefit the kickline and Career Academy programs. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7447 Fri, 26 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT MSG Varsity will be televising this Saturday's football game, in which the high-flying Redmen will visit Half Hollow Hills West for a 2 p.m. contest. East Islip High's students will also be featured before the game on MSG Varsity's "High School Life" program, which will be broadcast at noon on Oct. 27 on Channel 14. Viewers can catch a replay of the football game on Tuesday, Oct. 30 at 4 p.m. on Channel 14, or watch the game anytime after 4 p.m. on Nov. 1 either on-demand on Channel 614 or online at MSGVarsity.com. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7422 Thu, 25 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s community food drive, held annually on the Thursday before Thanksgiving, will take place this year on Nov. 15. Students from the Student Council, STARS and the other school clubs go out into the community to collect frozen turkeys and nonperishable food items on behalf of the needy. Teams of students visit households on their chosen routes on the weekend before the food drive, leaving flyers noting that they will return to those houses on the following Thursday between 5 and 8 p.m. to pick up donated food “trick-or-treat” style. Vehicles from local churches and food pantries will wait at the high school parking lot as the students return with the collected donations. East Islip residents who do not receive a flyer are also welcome to contribute on Nov. 15. “We invite the community to drop off any food items they would like to donate at the school by the gym doors,” says student council adviser Frances Li. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7423 Thu, 25 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School students running in the 2012-2013 student government elections have ensured their classmates are well aware of not only who they are but also what their positions on the issues are. The 15 civic-minded middle schoolers created videotaped campaign speeches during visits to East Islip High School’s video production studio on Oct. 24 and 25. The speeches were filmed under the guidance of high school technology teacher James Connell by two of his video production students, junior John Callagy and senior Brian Potter. Running for president are Noah Charvat and Ryan Gurnick, while Victoria Goldfader, Philip Lastorino and Rich Sill are vying for vice president. Claudia Banville is facing off against Emma Elliott for the office of secretary. Jessica Churpita and Elisa Mingo are running for treasurer. The six students seeking election as sixth-grade representatives are Joshua Koretz, Madison Lane, Heather McNamara, Josh Muroff, Maggie Ruland and Emily Vazquez. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7427 Thu, 25 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Three representatives from North Shore-LIJ Southside Hospital in Bay Shore visited East Islip High School’s new Medical and Health Technology Career Academy on Oct. 12: Kerri Fontaine, the hospital’s manager of marketing and education; Marge Miller, the manager of human resources; and Vincent Cunningham, Southside’s community relations coordinator. “The purpose of our visit was to discuss more opportunities that benefit the Career Academies and possibly the East Islip School District as a whole,” explained Fontaine. “The partnership between our hospital and East Islip High School is so exciting and instrumental in serving the needs of our community. North Shore-LIJ Southside Hospital is always striving to improve the health and quality of life for the community around us by providing world-class service and patient-centered care. Our physicians are vested in Suffolk County and are eager to be part of any opportunities that further benefit the education or wellness of the local community.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7431 Thu, 25 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Fifty East Islip High School students were inducted as new members of the school’s National Honor Society on Oct. 22 in a morning ceremony in the school’s library, attended by beaming parents. These outstanding seniors were recognized for their high standards in academics, character and leadership. Each will be required to volunteer for over 40 hours of community service during the remainder of their senior year, prior to permanent investiture in the Society next spring. “Everyone is looking forward to the new year as projects begin,” remarked teacher Margie Gomez, the Society’s adviser. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7402 Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Sponsored by East Islip High School’s Medical and Health Technology Career Academy, Unity Pharmacy of East Islip will present “Reducing Your Heart Risk” tomorrow night, the second in a series of free monthly medical workshops intended for students, faculty and community residents. The Oct. 24 workshop will be held at 7:30 p.m. in the high school library. For information on other upcoming medical workshops, consult the attached full schedule. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7375 Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Assemblyman Phil Boyle and State Sen. Lee Zeldin visited East Islip High School on Oct. 17 for an informative talk with students. The two local Republican legislators came to speak to Eric Bruckner’s AP Government class about politics, campaigning and volunteering for their campaigns. Boyle is running for newly retired Sen. Owen Johnson’s vacant seat in the 4th State Senate District, while incumbent Zeldin is seeking re-election to the 3rd State Senate District. “It was a question-and-answer experience where the students were able to ask any question they wanted,” explained Bruckner. “Students are required as part of the class to volunteer for eight hours of campaigning.” U.S. Rep. Peter King, who has served as a congressman for New York's 3rd congressional district since 1993, will be visiting East Islip on Oct. 25 for a similar session with Bruckner’s students. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7376 Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Oct. 22, 2012: First-graders William Cuk, Adrianna Iacono and Nicolette Miller of Connetquot Elementary Third-grader Alessia Carcone of John F. Kennedy Elementary Fifth-graders Shannon Dodenhoff and Zachary Muscarella of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Fifth-grader Paige Lazarich of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7377 Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Held annually in September, Library Card Sign-up Month is a time for libraries across the nation to remind parents and children that a library card is the most important school supply of all. In conjunction with Sign-up Month, East Islip Middle School librarian Valerie Ware runs a library card contest each year to encourage students and their families to get library cards. The 2012 winners were the sixth-graders from Janice Laube’s sixth-period English language arts class, who achieved perfect results. “My congratulations to Mrs. Laube’s class for having 100 percent of the students being East Islip Public Library cardholders,” said Ware. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7380 Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT In what has become an annual tradition for East Islip’s cross-country program, the boys and girls teams headed north to Rhode Island this past weekend to compete in the Brown University Northeast Cross Country Championship held at Goddard Memorial State Park in Warwick. Despite drenching rains the night before and a muddy course throughout the day, the Redmen performed at high levels in all seven competitions entered, earning medals in the freshman, varsity and elite races. This Oct. 20 invitational was especially enjoyed by the teams, as it provided an opportunity to put their fundraising money to work; an overnight stay was involved as well as a chance to compete against teams throughout the Northeast. Coaches James Marino and Steven Brown were pleased with not only both teams' results on the track but also their good sportsmanship and maturity while on the road. The teams look sharp as they head into the divisional championships this coming week, seemingly having timed their training to peak at just the right time. Photos by Glenn Reed. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7355 Mon, 22 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School's student government and National Honor Society teamed up to sponsor World Sight Day on Oct. 11, collecting 137 pairs of donated eyeglasses. Celebrated annually on the second Thursday of October, World Sight Day serves to focus attention globally on the issues of blindness, visual impairment and rehabilitation of the visually impaired. In low-income nations, where approximately 90 percent of the world’s blind persons reside, the elderly and older women in particular must often face obstacles in receiving needed eye health care and prohibitively expensive eyeglasses. Donated glasses are often the only way for these individuals to regain unimpaired vision. For their World Sight Day project, participating students at the middle school requested donations of old eyeglasses or sunglasses to help people with eyesight difficulties in developing countries around the world. For every pair brought in, students were given raffle tickets for a Target gift card. On Oct. 22, the winner was announced as eighth-grader Tom Lynster. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7357 Mon, 22 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Fifth-graders at Connetquot Elementary recently participated in a mock debate between Patriots and Loyalists during social studies classes as part of their studies of the events leading up to the American Revolution. Directed by teachers Melinda Safrany, Frank Esposito, Elizabeth Vann and Debra Fitzpatrick, the project required students to collect information from what they had read regarding the reasons why the colonists decided either to remain loyal to King George or to form a new country. They filled graphic organizers with textual evidence to support the Patriot or Loyalist cause, then chose sides and designed flyers to convince “the local undecided colonists” that their point of view was the right one. “The children developed persuasive, fact-filled arguments to defend the perspective they represented,” said Principal Deborah Smith. “One of the key points that the Patriots shared was that the colonists had 'no representation' yet were taxed by England. The loyalists believed that the colonists should respect the wishes of their king. The debate conversations were animated and enthusiastic and encouraged students to think about the birth of our nation.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7359 Mon, 22 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Two East Islip High School students, senior Courtney Kenyon and junior Leah Stevens, were recently named All-State musicians and will perform at the 77th annual New York State School Music Association Winter Conference, to be held Nov. 29-Dec. 2 in Rochester, N.Y. Vocalist Kenyon, a Drama Club member, is known for her impressive performances in East Islip’s school musicals. She was nominated for a 2012 Teeny Award for her role as Lili in last year’s production of “Carnival!” Stevens, an accomplished flutist and member of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, has played in the school’s wind ensemble and concert band, and studied at Boston University Tanglewood Institute and the Precollege Division of Manhattan School of Music. The pair’s outstanding audition performances at last spring’s NYSSMA Solo Festival led to their selection to represent East Islip High School in the All-State Women’s Choir and Symphonic Band concerts, respectively. “These young musicians set the bar for all the music students here at East Islip and continue to fill us with EI pride,” said Stephen Guarino, East Islip’s director of art and music. The NYSSMA Winter Conference’s All-State concerts will be held at the famous Eastman Theater, where participants from across New York State will perform a rigorous program with over 900 fellow student-musicians under the direction of acclaimed conductors. NYSSMA’s All-State Wind Ensemble, String Orchestra and Women's Chorus Concert and its Vocal Jazz/Instrumental Jazz Concert will both be held Dec. 1, while the All-State Chorus, Symphonic Band and Symphony Orchestra Concert will take place Dec. 2. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7327 Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Parents of children with disabilities will be receiving a Parental Involvement Survey via regular mail. Potsdam Institute for Applied Research, an independent research firm, is working with the New York State Education Department to survey parents of children who are receiving special education services. Parents in school districts throughout the state are completing this survey. For more information, please see the attached letter from Susan Kosser, the district's assistant to the superintendent for student support services. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7333 Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click on each senior's name below to read in-depth profiles, memories and future plans of the top 10 students of East Islip High School’s Class of 2012, in their own words. 1. Vincent Sheppard 2. Allison Casey 3. Justin Morena 4. Grace Revello 5. Terence Nixdorf 6. Ashley Tarduno 7. James Burke 8. Kevin Irace 9. Julia O’Connor 10. Tyler D’Agostino http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7342 Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Maj. Gen. Joseph L. Osterman, the commanding general of the Marine Corps Recruiting Command in Quantico, Va. and a two-star veteran of the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, visited East Islip High School on Sept. 27, accompanied by Suffolk County Legislator Tom Cilmi, Islip Town Supervisor Tom Croci and a fellow marine, Capt. Chad Luebke. The highly decorated general (whose bio can be found here) spoke at the school’s Forum with juniors and seniors from the social studies classes of teachers Nicholas Mequia and Kimm Schwarz, discussing U.S. foreign policy, patriotism, the War on Terror and Osterman’s personal experiences in the armed services. The visit was arranged by East Islip Middle School teacher Rena Costello. “This was just as thrilling for me as it was for the students,” commented Cilmi. “We are grateful to the East Islip School District for hosting this program and especially grateful to the general for taking the time to visit.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7289 Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Ask the Doctor, a free community awareness program offered by North Shore-LIJ Southside Hospital’s Department of Community Services, came to East Islip on the evening of Oct. 4. Sponsored by the East Islip Drug and Alcohol Coalition, the parents-only “Crisis in the Midst” symposium discussed all aspects of drug addiction, including its effect on teens. A panel consisting of four of Southside Hospital’s physicians – Dr. Jean Cacciabaudo, Southside Hospital’s chief of cardiology; Dr. Tochi Iroku-Malize, chairman of family medicine for the North Shore-LIJ Health System; Dr. Scott Wodicka, the director of surgery; and Dr. Brian Blaustein, an emergency physician at Southside Hospital – interacted with experts on the topic and gave audience members at the high school’s auditorium a chance to ask pertinent questions. Guest speakers included Dr. Jeff Reynolds of the Long Island Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence and Dr. Michael Delman, Southside’s vice president of academic affairs and an assistant professor of medicine at the Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine. Other community and health-related organizations set up informational booths throughout the high school during the Ask the Doctor event, including the Suffolk Department of Health, the Long Island Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Day Top, Phoenix House, Prevention Resource Center, Family Service League, Suffolk County Police Department and North Shore-LIJ South Oaks Hospital. Students from the high school’s new Medical and Health Technology Career Academy also attended. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7303 Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s kickline held a successful car wash at Rita’s Italian Ices on Main Street during the weekend of Sept. 21, a fundraising event intended to raise money for the team’s planned trip to Orlando, Fla. in March to participate in the National Dance Alliance’s championship competition. The car wash was just one of many fundraisers the team plans to hold this year in order to alleviate the cost of the trip for the students. “The efforts of the team members and the support of their parents are the things that will make our fundraising efforts a success, giving each of these girls the opportunity to represent East Islip High School at the NDA Nationals,” said the team’s coach, Denise Naccarato. The next fundraiser for the kickline team (along with the school’s three Career Academies) is the annual Halloween Family Fun Night on Oct. 25, followed by a Chinese auction on Nov. 30, both to be held at East Islip High. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7277 Wed, 17 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School Drama Club has announced the cast of its upcoming Dec. 7-8 production of George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart's "You Can't Take It With You": Steven Biondi as Anthony P. Kirby Paul Brett as Mr. DePinna Shannon Caturano as Rheba Cami Clemens as Donna Samantha Connolly as Penny Sycamore Michael Danz as Ed Carmichael Emily DeMaio as Gay Wellington (and assistant to the director) Paige Epstein as Department of Justice Officer (and prop mistress) Erin Geraghty as Department of Justice Officer Joseph Janover as Martin Van Der Hof (Grandpa) Courtney Kenyon as Essie Carmichael Alexandra Konnerth as Mrs. Miriam Kirby Peter McDermott as Mr. Kolenkhov Dave Cisk as Tony Kirby Andrew Sciallo as Paul Sycamore Noelia Vasquez as Wima C. Henderson (IRS) Kyra Walls as Department of Justice Officer (and assistant costume mistress) Rebecca Willdigg as The Grand Duchess Olga Katrina Michelle Zimms as Alice Sycamore Tom DiOrio and Jake Osburn will serve as stage managers, while the running crew will be comprised of Courtney Farbman, Ashley Karlin and Samantha Sampollo "We are thrilled to announce this stellar cast," said Drama Club director Sue Jeffares. "Thanks to all who auditioned." http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7278 Wed, 17 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Zinch.com will host a college essay-writing workshop webinar to give students an idea of what colleges are looking for and how a student can put his or her best foot forward in distinguishing themselves from other applicants. The webinar will be held on Monday, Oct. 29 at 7 p.m. and again on Tuesday, Oct. 30 at 9 p.m. Students will learn how to decide what to write to take advantage of this opportunity to add character to their applications, and how to bring an authentic voice to their essays. Interested students should register for the webinar here (they cannot attend without first signing up). http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7280 Wed, 17 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School students and parents are welcome to attend a college fair tonight (Oct. 17) at St. Joseph's College. The event will be held from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the John A. Danzi Athletic Center at 155 W. Roe Blvd. in Patchogue. Over 200 colleges and career schools will be in attendance; a list can be found here. Students can register here and print out a barcoded pass that captures student data for representatives to scan at the college fair. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7281 Wed, 17 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT BOYS CROSS-COUNTRY Whitman defeated East Islip’s harriers, 15-40, on Oct. 9 at the Sunken Meadow course. BOYS VARSITY GOLF EI visited Bayport-Blue Point on Oct. 10 and came away with a 5-4 victory at the West Sayville course, improving to 6-3 in League V play. Sayville clinched the league championship by defeating East Islip, 8.5-1.5, at West Sayville Country Club on Oct. 11. BOYS VARSITY SOCCER Zack Acocella’s goal with 7 minutes left helped East Islip beat Riverhead, 2-1, on Oct. 9. Goalie Frank Noviello made 10 saves. Nolan Ferrin scored EI’s other goal. Danny Munar and Brady Benitez notched an assist each. EI settled for a 1-1 tie on Oct. 11 against North Babylon. Troy Revello scored for East Islip, with Benitez assisting. Noviello made 9 saves. VARSITY FIELD HOCKEY EI shut out Sayville, 2-0, on Oct. 9, spurred by Nicole Levy’s goal with 9:54 left. Alexa Martino also scored for East Islip; Emily Cassar recorded 1 assist. Goalie Erica Hayden made 2 saves, marking her first career shutout. The game was also the 200th victory for EI coach Christopher Veit. The next game for East Islip also ended up a shutout, with the Lady Redmen beating West Babylon, 4-0, on Oct. 11. Scorers were Levy (2 goals, 1 assist), Carlee Ancona (1 goal), Martino (1 goal), Elizabeth Vetter (1 assist). Hayden made 4 saves. VARSITY FOOTBALL The Redmen’s season-long, four-game unbeaten streak came to an end on Oct. 13, as they fell at home to Smithtown West by a 13-10 score. GIRLS CROSS-COUNTRY First-place (Niamh Ash, 19:07) and second-place (Kayla Murphy, 20:21) finishes for EI’s girls cross-country team at their Oct. 9 meet led East Islip to a 15-50 victory over Whitman. GIRLS GYMNASTICS East Islip’s gymnasts beat Floyd on Oct. 12, 134.25-116.40. Rachel Silsdorf won the balance beam (8.4). GIRLS VARSITY SOCCER EI defeated Half Hollow Hills West on Oct. 10, with Kayla Saager’s two goals sparking the team’s 3-2 victory. Shannon Cumming also scored for EI. Goalie Kiersten Conway made 3 saves. GIRLS VARSITY TENNIS In defeating Bay Shore, 6-1, on Oct. 10, East Islip’s girls varsity tennis team (10-0) won League III. Bridget Kavanaugh and Madison Schrader defeated Emily Hoffman and Chrissy Martin, 6-1, 6-4 in third doubles. Singles winners were Karen Serina (first), Emily Hyland (second), Christina Hyland (third) and Abby Dell’Orto (fourth). Justina Marku and Shelby Clyne won at second doubles. GIRLS VOLLEYBALL Visiting EI narrowly lost to Smithtown West, 3-2, on Oct. 9. At home on Oct. 11, the Lady Redmen downed North Babylon, 3-0. Vanessa Marques had 10 aces and Briana Heffernan had 8 in the 25-6, 25-19, 25-14 League III victory. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7288 Wed, 17 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT MSG Varsity will be airing an Oct. 17 East Islip vs. West Islip boys varsity soccer match. The game of traditional rivals can be viewed on Channel 14 this Thursday, Oct. 18 at 7:30 p.m. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7259 Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Oct. 15, 2012: Third-graders Michael Baldino, Brianna Fairbrother and Jenna Scandale; fourth-grader John Boccalupo; and fifth-grader Griffin Wylie of Connetquot Elementary Kindergartner Julianna D’Addario of John F. Kennedy Elementary First-grader Olivia Graffagnino of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Kindergartner Eelahna Smith of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7261 Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT In recognition of Fire Prevention Awareness Week, members of the Islip Terrace Fire Department visited with students in grades K-3 at Connetquot Elementary School on Oct. 10. Escorted by several firefighters, fourth- and fifth-graders from the school walked across Manhattan Boulevard on Oct. 10 and 11 to take an actual tour of the firehouse facility. At both the school assemblies and the firehouse, firefighters talked about the importance of fire prevention and how to properly deal with dangerous situations that may arise in connection with fire. The 368 participating children learned about the need for fire alarms, how to respond if they were in a smoke-filled room, and the importance of the “stop, drop and roll” procedure if they ever were actually in a fire. “The firemen were very engaging and educated all who were in attendance,” said Connetquot Principal Deborah Smith. “The children proudly wore their ‘fire hats’ home and learned lessons on safety around stoves and other household electrical appliances.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7262 Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Five East Islip High School students were inducted into the Keep Islip Clean program at an Oct. 9 ceremony held at Islip Town Hall West. Keep Islip Clean, founded in 1989, encourages town residents to participate in cleaning up roadside litter. Deputy Supervisor Trish Bergin Weichbrodt led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance, and speakers included three KIC officials – Executive Director Nancy Cochran, Chairman William Johnston and Co-Chairman Pamela Raymond – as well as educator Darien Logan. East Islip High School Principal William Brennen was also in attendance. Councilman Steven J. Flotteron presented certificates to East Islip’s Jessica Carino, Elizabeth Loizides, Rachael Maretsky, Abigail Shulman and Caleb Shulman, who were all sworn in as KIC Junior Commissioners along with students from 10 other school districts in the Town of Islip. The title of Junior Commissioner designates environmentally conscious and civic-minded high schoolers recommended to represent their schools and communities in helping to implement KIC’s programs (such as Adopt-a-Highway, Adopt-a-Waterway and Anti-Graffiti) and developing their own cleanup projects. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7241 Mon, 15 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT According to the New York State School Boards Association, School Board Recognition Week is officially held this year from Oct. 29-Nov. 2. Since that would be too early for the East Islip Board of Education’s Nov. 8 meeting, the district celebrated a few weeks early, and each of the six district schools created artwork tributes in honor of the Board’s service, displayed at the Board's Oct. 11 regular monthly meeting. Addressing the Board last week, Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello said, “We sometimes take for granted all the time and effort you put in. We wanted to recognize that publically with a big ‘thank you.’” The artwork created by the schools was acknowledged, and each member of the Board was given a plaque, presented by Finello, and an EI sweatshirt, presented by two students from the high school, Alaina Fango and Ashley Tarduno. In his report to the Board, Finello noted that New York State had approved East Islip’s APPR plan, and commended Assistant Superintendent Alise Becker-Santa, the administration and teachers for their hard work on the crucial project. Noting that the APPR deadline is in January, he said, “We made it with plenty of time to spare.” Up next was accountant Alan Yu, of the district’s external auditing firm, Cullen & Danowski, LLP. Yu presented a summary of the 2012 fiscal year, noting the district had strong controls and no compliance violations. The Board approved one new policy, No. 5426 – Concussion Management, which was intended to comply with New York State’s Concussion Act passed in July 2012. Another was recommended: No. 5300.60 – Visitors to Schools. Two field trips (for the high school boys and girls cross-country teams to compete in Rhode Island from Oct. 19-20, and for high school musicians to perform at the NYSSMA All-State Music Conference in Rochester in November) were also approved. Becker-Santa, the assistant superintendent for instruction and personnel, discussed the ongoing development of the Parent Portal and efforts to go paperless. She also announced numerous personnel appointments, including the tenure of East Islip Middle School special education teacher Jessica Rella, who was in attendance. Discussing districtwide committees, Board President Ken Cronin noted, “The committees are being filled right now…you will be notified soon.” At the very end of the meeting, representatives of the burgeoning East Islip Music and Arts Program Support organization (known as “eiMAPs”) presented the Board with a surprise $2,408 donation for the benefit of the district’s art and music department. The funds will be used to reinstate the high school and middle school jazz bands as well as the Photography Club. The East Islip Board of Education will hold its next regular monthly meeting on Nov. 8 at 8 p.m. The meeting will be held in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7248 Mon, 15 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Two East Islip seniors were recently named as Commended Students by the 2013 National Merit Scholarship Program. Julia O’Connor and Peter Zeff were recognized for their outstanding qualifying test results, placing among the top 5 percent nationwide out of the more than 1.5 million students who competed in the program by taking the 2011 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). “All of us here at East Islip High School are very proud of Julia and Peter for being named Commended Students,” said Principal William Brennen. “We applaud their commitment and dedication to academics and are honored to have them as representatives of our school.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7233 Sun, 14 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip’s colors are red and white, but on Oct. 11, the mood at Ruth C. Kinney Elementary was all about orange during the beloved annual Pumpkin Patch event. The school’s PTA provided an opportunity for students from kindergarten through second grade to go pumpkin picking in the RCK side field, with parents and siblings in attendance. Once the final choices were made, PTA volunteers helped the children write their names on their selected gourds. They also provided a special treat to each student and organized fall harvest class photos. “It is a fun event,” said RCK Principal Danielle Naccarato. “The teachers then extend Pumpkin Patch by planning pumpkin activities in the classroom.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7213 Fri, 12 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School Girls Leaders Club is holding an October cookie fundraiser in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Sales of the pink-and-white cookies will benefit the Maurer Foundation, which has been dedicated to raising awareness through breast health education since 1995. Teacher Kimm Schwarz, the club’s adviser, said, “The girls will be selling these delicious cookies all through the month of October. The Maurer Foundation cookies are a great way for the teenage population to become aware of the magnitude of breast cancer on Long Island.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7214 Fri, 12 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Dear East Islip Middle School Parents and Guardians: Please be advised that today, Oct. 11, all staff and students evacuated East Islip Middle School due to an odor we believe to be associated with gas cooktops and ovens in our family and consumer science classrooms. Upon evacuation, some students reported to the ECC while others reported to the high school. The Islip Terrace Fire Department and Suffolk County Police Department responded, addressed the concern and confirmed that the building was safe to enter. They also made recommendations that are being addressed this afternoon. The rooms remained unoccupied for the rest of the day. While this may have caused a slight inconvenience in our day, all students and teachers reported back to classes and are finishing the day on a revised bell schedule. I would like to commend the staff and students for their patience and cooperation during this evacuation. Thank you. Mark Bernard Principal http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7198 Thu, 11 Oct 2012 13:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting tonight (Oct. 11) at 8 p.m. in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. The Board has invited all community members to attend. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6463 Thu, 11 Oct 2012 10:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School student Heather McNamara, known for her bravery in the face of life-threatening cancer as well as her numerous fundraising endeavors, was recognized by the Town of Islip on Aug. 28. There to present the sixth-grader with a citation were Islip Town Supervisor Tom Croci, Town Board members Trish Bergin Weichbrodt, John Cochrane Jr., Steven J. Flotteron and Anthony Senft Jr.; and Town Clerk Olga H. Murray. Back in 2009, the Islip Terrace resident (then a student at at Connetquot Elementary School) underwent a 23-hour surgical procedure to remove a golf-ball-sized cancerous tumor wrapped around her pancreas. Dr. Tomoaki Kato and his team at New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center were willing to attempt the risky procedure, which involved removed not only her pancreas but her stomach, spleen, liver, small intestines and large intestines. Many of these organs could not be reattached due to damage from the cancer. Heather’s subsequent television commercial for New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center made her familiar to many Long Islanders. Since the surgery, Heather developed juvenile diabetes, a result of losing her pancreas. She has battled the condition with the same determination with which she fought against cancer. Heather and her parents, Tina and Joseph McNamara, have continued to raise awareness and money for the benefit of sick children. Their latest fundraiser, the Craving 4 a Cure event for juvenile diabetes, took place on Aug. 19 at Mary's Pizza & Pasta in Islip Terrace. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7202 Thu, 11 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Last spring’s Key West/Bahamas field trip for East Islip High School’s International Business Globalization and Environment Green Career Academies proved the perfect balance of education and recreation, from the science of the Everglades to the inside scoop on government in the Bahamas. The annual excursion began May 15, with an airboat trip around Everglades National Park as the first event. “The students were given a firsthand look at the environment and how it is being preserved by the Florida government,” said Career Academy director Israel Malinowitzer. “We saw some rare birds, unique trees and a number of alligators enjoying the water and keeping an eye out for their meals.” While in Key West, Career Academy students visited the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, climbed the nearby lighthouse, viewed a special tourism presentation emphasizing the economic impacts for the area, and took a train tour of the city. “The students were shown a variety of landmarks, including the home of President Truman,” said Malinowitzer. “We also traveled through the Cuban community and were able to see their homes and how their culture interacts with the other families on the island.” A two-hour kayaking trip in the local mangrove swamp provided information on local organisms and water samples. “The expedition gave the students opportunities to study and compare this area with Long Island’s waters,” said Malinowitzer. The students next visited Sun Life Stadium in Miami Gardens, where the public relations director of the Miami Dolphins football team provided a tour of the entire facility. “They allowed us in the dressing room area,” recalled Malinowitzer. “The students were able to take pictures of some of their favorite players’ lockers.” In the second phase of the field trip, the Academies moved on to Nassau in the Bahamas, initially focusing on undersea explorations. Said Malinowitzer, “We traveled to three locations, where students snorkeled with a school of fish, viewed a shipwrecked boat that had been underwater for a long time, and then took a close look at how sharks live in the area and search for food. We then traveled to a dolphin encounter, where the students interacted with the dolphins and learned how they function.” After the encounter, the students were split into groups. The Environment Green students learned how the dolphins are trained and fed, while the International Business Globalization students met with the owner of the facility to discuss public relations. “Once again,” Malinowitzer added, “they learned how important tourism is for economic success, even in the Bahamas.” While in Nassau, East Islip’s Career Academies were granted a private meeting with the current governor-general of the Bahamas, Sir Arthur Foulkes. “He was extremely friendly and answered questions from the students,” Malinowitzer said. “He spoke about the Bahamian government, his position and how he represents the queen of England. After the interview session, he invited all of us to sit down and have lunch.” Finally, the students visited a straw market, learning the art of bartering for items they wanted to purchase. “It was another opportunity to educate the children on how many Bahamian residents open small booths and earn income from their weekly sales,” said Malinowitzer. “This trip was absolutely the best educational experience for the Career Academy students,” he concluded. “It provided them so many opportunities to help prepare for their future endeavors.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7203 Thu, 11 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT State Assemblyman Phil Boyle, an alumnus of East Islip High School, recently provided an opportunity for students of the school to paint a patriotic mural in his Babylon office. Ten East Islip students from various grades and art classes – Sam Accles, Grace Bogdanowich, Kevin Capobianco, Heather Huffmann, Amanda Kettle, Asma Malik, Kimberly Moreno, Julia O'Connor, Marlena Spotts and Arthur Tuck – volunteered after school, using their artistic talents to paint a waving flag and other patriotic symbols over the course of two days. The project was completed on Oct. 4. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7192 Thu, 11 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District has added an additional stop to the high school and middle school afternoon extra help bus, effective as of Oct. 11. The stop, at Percy Williams Drive and Suffolk Lane East Side, will be the last stop on bus No. 3. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7177 Wed, 10 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Timber Point Elementary students displayed their love of reading at the school’s annual Scholastic book fair on Oct. 10, picking out books and then sitting to peruse them and discuss their selections with classmates. “Anything with princesses,” said Timber Point PTA President Jamie Steves, when asked about the best-selling books of the day. Fellow PTA volunteer Laura Micalizzi added that the children were also fascinated with Star Wars Legos. Held in the school's skills room, the Timber Point book fair will continue daily through Oct. 12. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7178 Wed, 10 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Andrew Loizides, a senior at East Islip High School and aspiring medical student, attended a DNA Science camp this past summer at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory’s DNA Learning Center (DNALC), the world’s first science center solely devoted to genetics education. Over 14,000 students have participated in Cold Spring Harbor’s DNA camps since they began in 1985. The DNA Science summer camp provides participants with extensive lab experience with the basic techniques of recombinant DNA, including DNA restriction and ligation, bacterial transformation and plasmid isolation. Young scientists such as Loizides are given the opportunity to perform the entire lab sequence from the acclaimed “DNA Science” textbook, using sophisticated laboratory and computer equipment. A member of East Islip High’s new Medical and Health Technology Career Academy, Loizides plans to put his new genetics knowledge to good use. He wrote the attached essay, “DNA Science,” about his experiences at the DNA Science camp. “Andrew is a young man with a bright future,” said Career Academy director Israel Malinowitzer. “He is planning to pursue a career in the medical field and is currently taking courses in the new Medical Academy that are both challenging and rigorous. He understands the importance of working hard and giving 100 percent of himself so that he can fulfill his dreams and aspirations. Andrew has visited several colleges over the last few months and is carefully reviewing the schools that offer excellent medical programs. He is a dedicated and responsible young man with a vision for his future.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7164 Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Oct. 8, 2012: Second-graders Daniella Chillemi and Frank Irace of Connetquot Elementary Fourth-graders Daniel Esmas and Rebecca Narvaez of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Second-grader Taylor Sturtz of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7170 Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students in Shannon Rooney-Cordova’s self-contained K-2 classroom at Ruth C. Kinney Elementary School learned that "A" is for applesauce. The class, currently working on an apple-related learning unit, gathered on Oct. 3 to make their own applesauce from scratch. By measuring, cooking and reviewing the class letter of the month (A), the students worked simultaneously on science, math, language arts and life skills. “The students had a lot of fun tasting the applesauce once it was cooked,” said Rooney-Cordova. “It was a great way for them to explore their senses and reinforce our science skills and letter of the week.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7127 Mon, 08 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Over 100 colleges, universities and military service branches participated in East Islip High School’s annual College Fair on Oct. 2, held in the high school’s cafeteria and providing students and their parents with the right informational tools to decide their futures. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7135 Sun, 07 Oct 2012 16:00:00 GMT BOYS CROSS-COUNTRY Despite an impressive run by senior Shane Martensen, the Redmen fell to 1-2 on the season with an Oct. 2 loss to North Babylon. BOYS VARSITY GOLF The boys golf team fell to Sayville, 7.5-1.5, on Oct. 2 at Timber Point. EI’s Tank Argenti shot a 39. BOYS VARSITY SOCCER East Islip defeated Centereach, 3-1, on Oct. 2, led by two goals from Zack Acocella. Also scoring: Danny Munar (1 goal), Nolan Ferrin (1 assist), Steven McKenna (1 assist). Goalie Frank Noviello made 4 saves. Steven Braccioforte scored with 1:40 to go, tying an Oct. 4 game against Smithtown East that ended 2-2. Also scoring for EI were Brady Benitez (1 goal), and Acocella (1 assists). Noviello made 10 saves. FIELD HOCKEY Spurred by Carlee Ancona’s 2 goals, East Islip downed Connetquot, 4-1, on Oct. 1. Other EI scoring: Alexa Martino (1 goal, 1 assist), Courtney Bernardini (1 goal), Nicole Levy (1 assists), Juliette Polis (1 assist) and Brianna DeMeo (1 assist). Goalie Jordan Catanzaro made 7 saves. The EI girls won again on Oct. 3, shutting out West Islip, 2-0, and extending their record to 8-0. Junior Brianna DeMeo scored her first varsity goal. Other EI scorers were: Levy (1 goal) and Bernardini (1 assist). Catanzaro made 1 saves, with Erica Hayden also making 1 save. VARSITY FOOTBALL Proving their undefeated status to date was no fluke, the Redmen beat top-ranked Riverhead, 24-14, to push their record to 5-0 in Division II. EI intercepted Riverhead QB Ryan Bitzer four times (by Paul Dondero, Hugens Tranquille, Steve Walsh and Mike Lee). Emerging star Andre Deegan rushed for 110 yards and scored 2 touchdowns. QB Casey Nolan went 9-for-18 for 162 yards, highlighted by a 49-yard touchdown pass to Lee. Matt Walter was a perfect 3-for-3 on extra points and added a 22-yard field goal. GIRLS CROSS-COUNTRY Finishing 1-2-3 in the three-mile course at Sunken Meadow, Niamh Ashe (20:22), Kayla Murphy (20:58) and Emily Fusco (21:25) led East Islip over North Babylon, 41-17, on Oct. 2. GIRLS VARSITY SOCCER EI shut out North Babylon, 1-0, on Oct. 2, with the sole goal coming from Kayla Saager (assisted by Sydney Cammeyer). Goalie Kiersten Conway made 4 saves. The Lady Redmen notched another shutout on Oct. 3 against Centereach. Saager scored 2 of EI’s 3 goals, and added an assist. The remaining goal was scored by Caileigh Apicella, while Shannon Cumming added 2 assists. Conway made 3 saves. West Islip in turn shut out EI on Oct. 5, winning 2-0 despite Conway’s 7 saves. GIRLS VARSITY TENNIS EI beat Sayville, 7-0, on Oct. 2, improving their record to 7-0. Christina Hyland defeated Paige Liskiewski at third singles, 6-2, 6-3. Other EI singles winners were Karen Serina at first, Emily Hyland at second and Abby Dell’Orto at fourth. For doubles, EI winners were Marissa Corrado and Shannon Murphy (first), Nicole Damore and Sarah Schreiner (second), and Justina Marku and Shelby Clyne (third). The team won again on Oct. 3, beating West Islip 4-3 and winning the League III championship. Star sophomore Serina (38-0 in league matches) defeated Tori Lentzeres at first singles, 6-0, 6-0. Other EI singles winners were Christina Hyland (third) and Dell’Orto (fourth). Damore and Schreiner won at second doubles. On Oct. 6, EI fell to Half Hollow Hills East, 6-1, to end the regular season. GIRLS VARSITY VOLLEYBALL EI shut out Centereach, 3-0, on Oct. 1 to improve their League III record to 5-0. Cathy Marku had 5 blocks and 10 kills, while Brianna Baier had 6 aces and 10 digs. Boys cross-country photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7133 Sun, 07 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Halloween Family Fun Night, an annual East Islip High School trick-or-treating event for children age 10 and younger, will take place this year on Thursday, Oct. 25. The seasonal spooktacular will run from 4:30-8 p.m., with all proceeds to benefit the East Islip High School kickline and career academy programs. For more information, view the attached flyer. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7117 Fri, 05 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The top 10 students of East Islip High School’s Class of 2012 were recognized for their superlative academic success during the school’s annual Senior Ranking Day on Oct. 5. Vincent Sheppard was announced as the top-ranked student and future valedictorian of the Class of 2013, with a weighted GPA of 108.317. Ranking second was future salutatorian Allison Casey, who scored a 106.791 weighted GPA. The remaining top 10 students, all of whom were in attendance, were Justin Morena (106.219 weighted GPA) in third place, Grace Revello (105.204 weighted GPA) in fourth, Terence Nixdorf (104.957 weighted GPA) in fifth, Ashley Tarduno (104.854 weighted GPA) in sixth, James Burke (104.559 weighted GPA) in seventh, Kevin Irace (104.541 weighted GPA) in eighth, Julia O’Connor (104.381 weighted GPA) in ninth and Tyler D’Agostino (104.216 weighted GPA) in 10th. Shortly after 9 a.m., East Islip Guidance Director Israel Malinowitzer gathered the jubilant seniors in the guidance department’s conference room for a celebratory bagel breakfast, where they were addressed by Principal William Brennen and Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello. The true measure of their accomplishment was put into perspective by Finello, who explained that because East Islip – and on a larger scale, Long Island – is such a high-achieving academic area, these East Islip students are actually among the nation’s finest 12th-grade scholars. “I am extremely proud of our top 10 students,” said Brennen. “This prestigious accomplishment is the result of a passion and commitment to learning that began in kindergarten and has continued to grow and develop throughout their educational journey in our district. Our top 10 students are wonderful ambassadors for East Islip High school and the entire East Islip community.” The students were also congratulated by Assistant Superintendents Alise Becker-Santa and Carl Fraser, as well as the school’s assistant principals and guidance counselors. Fraser reminded them to congratulate and thank their parents, noting that high-achieving students excel not only due to their abilities but as a result of strong support from their families. Coming next week: in-depth profiles of each of these 10 seniors and their future plans. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7118 Fri, 05 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students at Timber Point Elementary School in East Islip celebrated the International Day of Peace on Sept. 21 by creating “Pinwheels for Peace” and participating in various other Peace Day projects and activities. According to Principal Lisa Belz, the purpose was to “recognize, understand and help create a culture of peace.” “The fifth grade in particular created their own quotes for peace, listened to and analyzed the words of Martin Luther King's ‘I Have a Dream’ speech, learned how to say 'peace' in many languages, and designed Pinwheels for Peace which are displayed on the bulletin board in the hallway,” said Timber Point teacher Carol Wilson. The International Day of Peace, also unofficially known as World Peace Day, has been observed every Sept. 21 since 1982 and is dedicated to the concept of peace, specifically the absence of war and violence. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7121 Fri, 05 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Skies were gray but red and white was in the air as East Islip High School’s traditional homecoming parade and celebration on Sept. 29 brought EI pride to a fever pitch. Led by the school’s cheerleaders and kickline, with Homecoming Queen Autumn Miller and her attendants riding in a convertible, the parade through Islip Terrace featured four different “decade”-themed floats. The freshmen opted for a 1970s theme, replete with disco ball and dancer, while the sophomores’ boom box float represented the 1980s, blaring Michael Jackson songs. The junior class remembered the 1950s era of rock 'n' roll and the space race with their colorful creation. The winning entry, however, came from this year’s seniors, the Class of 2013, who accompanied their 1960s-themed float with peace signs, tie-dye outfits and amusing signs such as “Free Hugs” and “Will Smile for Money.” After the parade, fans of all ages began to pack the stands at Boomer Esiason Stadium, trumpeting their diehard allegiance with red-and-white jerseys, clothing and face paint. The football game, a 38-13 victory over North Babylon’s rival Bulldogs, was another convincing performance for the rolling Redmen. Despite coach Sal Ciampi’s modesty in proclaiming this a rebuilding year, and East Islip’s preseason rating as the No. 9 seed in Suffolk II, the Redmen remain undefeated after four games. They have scored the most points in the league and given up the fewest, with North Babylon as the latest victim. East Islip RB Andre Deegan, a senior, was one of the stars of the day, prompting the crowd to cheer his name. Deegan scored three touchdowns and tallied 182 rushing yards while only carrying the ball seven times. Another senior, Matt Walter, notched his team-leading eighth TD of the year on a pass from QB Casey Nolan. Walter added a 29-yard field goal and was perfect on his extra-point tries, going five-for-five. By halftime the score was 21-7 in favor of East Islip, spurring a jubilant mood in the hometown fans that was only ramped up further by the ensuing parade around the track and a rousing performance by the EI kickline team, and which did not diminish until the final buzzer sounded. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7112 Thu, 04 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Young readers flocked to Connetquot Elementary School's annual Scholastic book fair on Oct. 3. According to PTA volunteer Sharon Greenberg, the hottest sellers so far are the "Pete the Cat" books by Eric Litwin and James Dean, and the "Pinkalicious" series by Victoria Kann. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7087 Wed, 03 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT A community-minded group of East Islip Middle School students, all players on the East Islip Ravens girls under-13 soccer travel team, volunteered for the American Airlines "mAAgic flight" on Sept. 21. An annual charity event organized by the Something mAAgic Foundation, mAAgic flight provides an opportunity for children with life-threatening medical conditions to experience a week-long, cost-free vacation in Orlando, Fla., visiting attractions like Disney World and Universal. The Something mAAgic Foundation donates ticket taxes, car rental, translators and lodging at Give Kids the World Village (which includes meals and entrance to the theme parks), while the flights are provided through American Airlines’ Kids in Needs program. Headed to Orlando on this year's New York mAAgic flight from John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens were three children – 3-year-old Marissa, 5-year-old Olivia and 13-year-old Darrell – selected via a local wish-granting organization, the Dream Factory of Brooklyn. Participating student-athletes from East Islip included Emily Baio, Shannon Carney, Jenna Colucci, Kerri Donnelly, Megan Doyle, Amber Farbman, Nina Filippone, Jenna Healy, Katie Jeran, Kaitlyn MacIntosh, Maggie Petersen, Stephanie Sokol, Nicole Surace and Katie Warnokowski. “The Ravens assisted in setting up the event and entertained our three special guests, Darrell, Olivia and Marissa,” said Ravens coach Bill Baio. “These young ladies did an awesome job and I am so proud of how they conducted themselves at the event – they are a team on and off the field.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7097 Wed, 03 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The College Board has recognized five members of East Islip High School’s Class of 2013 as AP Scholars with Distinction. Seniors Brendon Bullard, Tyler D’Agostino, Justin Morena, Vincent Sheppard and Peter Zepf were recently recognized with this honor, along with 23 East Islip students who graduated in June 2012. In order to be recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction, a student must receive an average score of at least 3.5 on all of his or her Advanced Placement (AP) exams, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of those exams. Each AP course, which earns college credit for high school students, is graded on a scale of 1 to 5, with 3 being a passing grade. For 2012, East Islip High School can also boast 33 AP Scholars (19 current seniors and 14 who graduated in 2012), who received scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP exams; 24 AP Scholars with Honor (15 current seniors and nine recent graduates), who received an average score of at least 3.5 on all of their AP exams and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of those exams; and four National AP Scholars (all members of the Class of 2012), who received an average score of at least 4 on all AP exams taken and scores of 4 or higher on eight or more of those exams. (Peter Zepf is not pictured.) http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7100 Wed, 03 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT BOYS VARSITY GOLF The golf team cruised to victory on Sept. 24, shutting out Bellport, 9-0, at Timber Point Red. Paul Caliguri, Hunter Ingram and Brandon MacMorris all shot a 39 (+3). BOYS VARSITY SOCCER After two overtimes, East Islip and West Islip ended their Sept. 27 game with a scoreless tie. EI goalie Frank Noviello made nine saves. On Sept. 29, EI fell to Smithtown West, 1-0. Noviello made 4 saves. FIELD HOCKEY The girls field hockey team were blanked by Sachem East, 5-0, on Sept. 27. Goalie Jordan Catanzaro made 6 saves. EI came back strong the next day, beating Babylon, 2-0. Scorers were Nicole Levy (1 goal), Alexa Martino (1 goal), Brianna DeMeo (1 assist) and Kendall Allmendinger (1 assists). Catanzaro made 3 saves. GIRLS VARSITY SOCCER Led by Shannon Cumming’s hat trick, East Islip defeated Smithtown East on Sept. 24 by a 6-1 score. Also scoring for EI were Sydney Cammeyer (1 goal, 1 assist), Kayla Saager (1 goal, 1 assist), Alicia Sanni (1 goal) and Rachel Dempsey (1 assist). Goalie Kiersten Conway notched 4 saves. EI won again on Sept. 28, this time beating Smithtown West, 2-1, on goals by Cammeyer and Saager. Conway made 2 saves. GIRLS VARSITY TENNIS The girls tennis team was blanked, 7-0, by Half Hollow Hills West in a Sept. 27 non-league match. Zenat Rashidzada defeated Karen Serina 6-3, 6-2 at first singles. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7076 Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for Oct. 1, 2012: Fourth-grader Elias Daniello of John F. Kennedy Elementary Third-graders Allison Farino and Donovan Kelpie of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Third-grader Kaitlyn Donnelly of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7059 Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT To protect the safety of students and staff in East Islip School District, visitors are reminded to please cooperate with the following safety procedures for entering the district’s school buildings: 1. Anyone who is not a regular staff member or student of the school will be considered a visitor. All staff members will be wearing a school-issued ID during normal school hours. 2. All visitors to the school must report to the school building’s front desk upon arrival at the school, where they will be required to sign the visitor’s register and present photo ID. Visitors will then be issued a visitor’s pass, which must be worn at all times while in the school or on school grounds. The visitor must remove the identification pass at the front desk and sign out on the visitor’s register before leaving the building. All visitors will be announced and/or escorted to and from their destinations. 3. Visitors attending school functions that are open to the public outside of school hours, such as parent-teacher organization meetings or public gatherings, are not required to register. 4. Any unauthorized person on school property will be reported to the principal or his or her designee. Unauthorized persons will be asked to leave. The police may be called if the situation warrants. 5. All visitors are expected to abide by the rules for public conduct on school property contained in the school district’s Code of Conduct. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7069 Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Please note, there is an error on the elementary school lunch menus for the date of Thursday, Oct. 25, 2012. The correct lunch for all elementary schools on that day is: Pasta with Chicken Meatballs Peas Garden Salad Diced Pears Green Grapes http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7027 Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Middle School's student government and National Junior Honor Society have teamed up to host a movie night on Friday, Oct. 26. "The Goonies" will be screened in the auditorium. There will be no admission fee, but attendees should bring donation items as an entrance ticket. See the attached form/permission slip for more information. The permission slip must be returned by Thursday, Oct. 25. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7044 Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School's Medical and Health Technology Career Academy is in its first year of existence, but has already made an impact. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7047 Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Another year of Redmen pride was celebrated during East Islip High School's raucous annual pep rally on Sept. 28. Once the senior class photo had been taken, the introductions began. After acknowledging the junior varsity athletes in attendance, as well as East Islip's non-school local teams in hockey and rugby, Principal William Brennen turned the mic over to Athletic Director Stephen Restivo and the varsity coaches, who introduced the school's 2012-2013 teams in swimming, boys and girls cross-country, gymnastics, boys and girls soccer, girls tennis, boys golf, volleyball, field hockey and kickline. The announcement of this year's homecoming court was next, beginning with ninth-grade attendant Crystal Vessalico, 10th-grade attendant Sarah O’Neill and 11th-grade attendant Kinza Zia. Elected as homecoming king was senior Daniel Hayden, edging out James Ryan and Sean Condon. Fellow senior Autumn Miller was announced as East Islip's homecoming queen for 2012-2013; the runners-up were Allison Casey and Shannon Cummings. After a rousing performance by EI's cheerleading squad, the girls formed a red-and-white gauntlet for the Redmen as coach Sal Ciampi introduced this season's varsity football team, including Homecoming King Hayden. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7053 Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT There will be a meeting of the Audit Committee tonight, Oct. 1, 2012. The meeting will be at 7 p.m. and will be held in the district office's second-floor boardroom. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7028 Sun, 30 Sep 2012 05:00:00 GMT Bringing the community together for three days of fundraising recreation, the 16th annual FTK carnival was held from Sept. 21-23 on the grounds of Timber Point Elementary School in East Islip. FTK President Nancy Goldfader welcomed East Islip students, staff, parents and friends to the Friday night opening ceremonies, which featured strong vocal and musical performances by combined ensembles of students from all four of the East Islip School District’s elementary schools (Timber Point as well as Connetquot, John F. Kennedy and Ruth C. Kinney). With patriotic colors flying, courtesy of three local Scouts, student Emma Sasso led the assembled crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance. The chorus students then sang a stirring “Star-Spangled Banner,” conducted by RCK music teacher Margaret Strzelecka and assisted by fellow music teachers Kathleen Carter of Timber Point, Eileen Egbert of Connetquot and James Santoro of JFK. Up next were the elementary string students, who performed marvelously under the direction of teachers Jaime DeMaria and Angela Fetcho, assisted by Alyssa Sciarrino, the high school’s string orchestra director. “The string musicians from all four buildings really ‘twinkled’ and shined at the opening ceremonies,” said DeMaria. “We were very proud of all of our students!” When the last musical notes had faded, Goldfader spoke, expressing her gratitude for the support FTK (formally known as the For the Kids Foundation) had received. Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello took the mic to reiterate how meaningful FTK’s recent $70,000 donation would be for the students in the district. With those words, the party started and a weekend of fun games, rides and food began for the children of East Islip. “We were thrilled with the community support through sponsorships and ecstatic with the turnout for this year's carnival,” said Goldfader. “I give sincere thanks to everyone – especially co-chairpersons Pat Blair and Mary Finn – who gave of their time and energy to this event. Beautiful weather, exciting rides, great food and a safe environment made for a weekend that was enjoyed by all, especially the kids.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7019 Thu, 27 Sep 2012 14:00:00 GMT BOYS VARSITY GOLF East Islip fell to Bayport-Blue Point, 6.5-2.5, on Sept. 20 at Timber Point White Course. The EI boys came back on Sept. 24 to defeat Bellport at Timber Point Red by the score of 9-0. BOYS VARSITY SOCCER Andrew Dobkowski’s goal against North Babylon with 11 seconds left in overtime won the game for East Islip on Sept. 20, 1-0. Danny Munar assisted. EI goalie Frank Noviello made 8 saves, recording his first career shutout. Hosts Newfield beat EI on Sept. 22, 3-1. Brady Benitez scored the lone Redmen goal. Noviello again made 8 saves. VARSITY FIELD HOCKEY The East Islip girls shut out West Babylon, 3-0, on Sept. 20, led by Alexa Martino’s 2 goals. Other EI scorers were: Carlee Ancona (1 goal), Brianna DeMeo (1 assist) and Nicole Levy (1 assist). Goalie Arianna Kreush made 1 save. EI won again on Sept. 22, at home, beating Bay Shore, 2-1. Courtney Bernardini’s goal at the 2:04 mark in overtime, assisted by Levy, won the game. Martino also scored, and Kreush made 10 saves. VARSITY FOOTBALL The Redmen continued to roll, notching another lopsided victory (40-1) against hosts Centereach on Sept. 22. Matt Walter rushed 10 times for 102 yards and 3 touchdowns, had 2 receptions for 24 yards, and converted 4 of 6 extra-points. Other receivers included Mike Lee (5 receptions, 31 yards), Casey Stengel (1 reception, 41 yards), Huggens Tranquille (6 receptions, 87 yards) and Pat Valoy (1 reception, 17 yards). QB Casey Nolan completed 15 of 21 passes for 200 yards and ran 13 times for 65 yards and two TDs. Dan Hayden’s two tackles led to a loss and forced fumble against Centereach. Lee recorded an interception. GIRLS VARSITY SOCCER The girls varsity team shut out Half Hollow Hills West on Sept. 19. Both of EI’s 2 goals were scored by Kayla Saager. Brianna Hernandez added an assist. Goalie Kirsten Conway made 5 saves. In another, bigger shutout, EI downed North Babylon, 5-0, on Sept. 21, led by Shannon Cumming’s 2 goals. Other scorers were: Saager (1 goal, 1 assist), Kayla Roundsman (1 goal), Aly Conley (1 goal). Conway made 5 saves. GIRLS JV SOCCER The girls JV team beat Half Hollow Hills West, 1-0, on Sept. 19. Caroline Piazza scored the winning goal, assisted by Jillian Mooney, and goalie Alyssa Stephens recorded her second shut-out of the season. “Our players kept the team in the game with a solid defensive effort,” added coach David Lake. GIRLS VARSITY TENNIS EI’s red-hot tennis squad beat Bay Shore on Sept. 19, 6-1, for their fifth straight victory in League III. Emily Hyland defeated Cynthia Delcove, 6-1, 6-1, at second singles. Other singles winners were Karen Serina (first), Christina Hyland (third) and Abby Dell’Orto (fourth). Doubles winners were Nicole Damore and Shannon Murphy at first and Justina Marku and Shelby Clyne at third. The team continued to roll, beating Connetquot, 6-1, on Sept. 21. Dell'Orto defeated Mackenzie Mortoochi, 6-0, 6-2, at fourth singles. Other singles winners were Serina (first), Emily Hyland (second), Christina Hyland (third). Doubles winners were Damore and Murphy at first and Marku & Clyne at third. GIRLS VARSITY VOLLEYBALL The Lady Redmen shut out Newfield, 3-0, on Sept. 19, led by Brianna Heffernan’s 15 kills. The team beat West Islip on Sept. 21 by a 3-1 score, with Heffernan notching 18 kills. Cathy Marku added 5 blocks and 8 kills, Hannah Reilly had 10 kills and 3 blocks. Girls JV soccer photos by Charlie Cardone http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=7018 Thu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Matt Brown, an East Islip High School senior and enthusiastic member of the high school’s new Medical and Health Technology Career Academy, spent three weeks during the summer of 2012 at the prestigious Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y. Brown, who plans to be a veterinarian, was at Cornell’s Summer College soaking up knowledge in the school’s Veterinary Medicine: Small Animal Practice course, an experience that not only provided him with a formal, academic introduction to veterinary medicine but earned Brown three college credits. The varsity wrestler, Eagle Scout and avid bagpiper wrote about his educational stay at Cornell in an essay titled “Cornell Story.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6999 Wed, 26 Sep 2012 13:00:00 GMT The middle school's student government is sponsoring East Islip Middle School World Sight Day on Oct. 11, and requests donations of old eyeglasses to help people with eyesight difficulties around the world. See the attached flyer or more information. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6995 Wed, 26 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Beginning Monday, Oct. 1, the time of the high school and middle school extra help bus is changing from 3:40 p.m. to 3:50 p.m. Please note the attached updated schedule. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6998 Wed, 26 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School held a special Patriot Day ceremony on the morning of Sept. 11, dedicating a bronze plaque donated by the student council. The plaque, displayed in the school’s lobby, is emblazoned with the words “Freedom Is Never Free” and honors the memory of East Islip graduates who have given their lives in service to their country. Present at the solemn ceremony was recently retired teacher Dorsy Palios, the school’s student council and STARS club adviser last year. Palios was the main driver of the plaque project, which was originally scheduled for dedication this past May. That date coincided with a day the school was closed, so the ceremony was moved to September to mark the 11th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. Two students who worked with Palios in designing and purchasing the plaque, 11th-graders Rachel Lopicollo and Thea Tsolomitis, were also invited to attend, as was Regina Pope, a teacher assistant at the high school. Pope’s son, U.S. Army Cpl. Robert C. Pope II of East Islip, died on Nov. 7, 2005 while serving in Iraq. Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello and Principal William Brennen, who acknowledged the special admiration and level of support shown to the nation’s military by the East Islip community, welcomed representatives of several service branches, all recruiters and liaisons to the Long Island community. Among the military in attendance were Marine Corps Maj. Alexander E. Gilbert, Sgt. Robert Rodriguez, Lance Cpl. Robert Gartner and Lance Cpl. Ivelaw France; U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Patrick F. Ullrich and Sgt. Philip W. Hodges; and U.S. Navy Petty Officer Owen Johnson. The men spoke movingly of their experiences in the military, paid their respects to the memory of Cpl. Pope and the losses of 9/11, and took time to examine the high school’s framed list of U.S. service academy graduates, recently put back on prominent display in the lobby. Sgt. Rodriguez, an expeditionary airfield technician from San Antonio, Texas, is the current Marine Corps representative for East Islip High School. He served two tours in Iraq and his decorations include the Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and Combat Action Ribbon. Lance Cpl. Gartner, a native of Northport and combat electrician, served two tours in Afghanistan. He and Lance Cpl. France, a machine gun squad leader from Central Islip, are both assigned to the 2d Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment in Garden City. Staff Sgt. Ullrich, from Holbrook, is based at the Patchogue Recruiting Center. In assignments in Germany and North Carolina, Ullrich has performed duties as a driver, rifleman, squad-designated marksman, machine gunner, team leader, squad leader and detailed recruiter, and has been given numerous awards and decorations, including the Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge and Parachutist Badge. Sgt. Hodges, also based in Patchogue, is a native of Tulsa, Okla. He has served in Korea and Iraq as a launcher driver, launcher gunner, ammunition section chief and reconnaissance sergeant, and has been decorated with awards such as the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon and Overseas Service Ribbon. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6984 Tue, 25 Sep 2012 19:00:00 GMT East Islip’s cross-country teams performed strongly on Sept. 25 at their home track at Sunken Meadow, the boys facing Hollow Hills East and the girls racing against Connetquot. East Islip’s Niamh Ashe won the girls race with a time of 18:51. Shane Martensen ran a season-best 16:48 on the three-mile track to finish first among boys. Photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6985 Tue, 25 Sep 2012 14:00:00 GMT Please note the attached letter from East Islip High School Principal William Brennen, regarding the Sept. 25 electrical incident at the school. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6964 Tue, 25 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT In a continuing effort to weave literacy through all curricula areas, Connetquot Elementary School’s prolific music teacher Eileen Egbert and second-graders from Leslie Davis' class wrote an original song titled “The Connetquot Stomp” and performed it on Sept. 25 as a demonstration of their appreciation to the school’s hardworking custodial staff. Students not only sang but accompanied the humorous lyrics (replete with references to their many types of footwear) with various percussion instruments such as egg shakers, bear bells, xylophone, vibraslap, cabasa, ratchet and washboard. “The purpose of the song was to have students remember to wipe their feet after recess before re-entering the building,” said Connetquot Principal Deborah Smith, who was in attendance along with custodians David Clemente, Ed Ippilito and Carlos Rivera. “We were all overwhelmed by the students’ sense of gratitude.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6972 Mon, 24 Sep 2012 12:00:00 GMT East Islip High School will hold its annual College Fair on Tuesday, Oct. 2 at the high school cafeteria. Running from 7-9 p.m., the event will feature over 100 colleges, universities and military service branches. Please see the attached documents for more information and a list of all the schools that will be attending. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6958 Mon, 24 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School students can now sign up to play tennis after school in the East Islip Middle School Tennis League. A new five-week program provided by the Suffolk County Junior Tennis League (SCJTL), the East Islip league starts play on Oct. 1 at the East Islip High School tennis courts. Open to new and experienced boys and girls in sixth, seventh and eighth grade, the program will be run by Anthony Arma, an East Islip alumnus and former varsity tennis player. Registration must be completed by Friday, Sept. 28. “I hope this program provides the tennis experience to many who want to learn and play tennis on East Islip school tennis teams,” said Joe Arias, executive director of the SCJTL. Please see the attached registration form for more details. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6967 Mon, 24 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Fellow alumni remember Garrett Bernichon as a member of East Islip High School’s Class of 2011, but golfers may now recognize him as the co-inventor of the recently introduced Course Counsel iPhone app, which helps players improve their game and advises them on which club to use. “Course Counsel was my good friend John Skubic's idea,” Bernichon explained. “It is an iPhone app that is designed to aid golfers on the golf course. Using the GPS in the iPhone, we were able to calculate the distance of each shot of the golfer. By doing this, the app can then keep a ‘live’ average distance for each club the golfer uses. In addition to this, the golfer can set his own clubs and also use a built-in map feature to calculate how far they are from the hole. The app can even recommend the proper club to use, based on the averages. Course Counsel also has a scorecard, keeps track of over/under par, and now provides an option to tweet your score with Twitter.” Bernichon and Skubic spent approximately three months developing the app, which took over 5,000 lines of code. “We split the app into smaller, more manageable projects that each of us would work on,” recalled Bernichon. “We pieced together our work and eventually were able to produce a polished app ready for Apple’s App Store.” The finished app retails for 99 cents and has received very positive reviews. Bernichon is currently studying computer engineering at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind. Founded in 1869, Purdue is famous for its competitive engineering programs and curricula. “I love it at Purdue, and there is definitely a lot of opportunity here,” he said. The college sophomore’s experience in computer programming, both at home and in East Islip’s schools, came in handy. “I had some programming background coming into this project,” Bernichon said. “I was a student in Raymond Willie's AP computer science class. I really learned a lot from him and he's a great teacher. I know that Mr. Willie’s projects pushed me to learn more about programming and certainly gave me a head start compared to other students. I’ve also had a lot of inspiration from my father, a software engineer, and have also received ideas and feedback from both my family and John's family. John and I both bought an iOS development book and taught ourselves from it. Course Counsel is written in the Objective-C programming language, and in the same semester that we developed the app, we were enrolled in a class called C Programming for Engineers.” He already has a fan in his former EI teacher, Raymond Willie. “I purchased Course Counsel and it is a great app,” said Willie. “I am pleased to recognize Garrett’s success.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6919 Fri, 21 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Dear Parent or Guardian: This message is a follow-up to the district’s web messages and phone messages regarding the visit of a non-district parent to the East Islip Middle School last Friday, who was mistakenly looking for his child in our district. Based on ongoing interviews and discussions, we have been assured that a safe environment was maintained as none of our students interacted with the visitor and he left the building when he was informed that his child did not attend the middle school. Regardless, we have spent the past several days reviewing existing policies and protocols for visitors to all schools. As we begin another school year, we think it is important to review the following procedures that will be used in our schools for all persons who are visiting our buildings. 1. Anyone who is not a regular staff member or student of the school will be considered a visitor. All staff members will be wearing a school-issued ID during normal school hours. 2. All visitors to the school must report to the school building’s front desk upon arrival at the school, where they will be required to sign the visitor’s register and present photo ID. Visitors will then be issued a visitor’s pass, which must be worn at all times while in the school or on school grounds. The visitor must remove the identification pass at the front desk and sign out on the visitor’s register before leaving the building. All visitors will be announced and/or escorted to and from their destinations. 3. Visitors attending school functions that are open to the public outside of school hours, such as parent-teacher organization meetings or public gatherings, are not required to register. 4. Any unauthorized person on school property will be reported to the principal or his or her designee. Unauthorized persons will be asked to leave. The police may be called if the situation warrants. 5. All visitors are expected to abide by the rules for public conduct on school property contained in the school district’s Code of Conduct. To those of you who are frequent and known visitors to our schools, some of the procedures may feel unnecessary. We ask you to understand that following these procedures is in everyone’s best interest, to protect the safety of our students and staff. We will be reviewing and confirming the responsibilities of those staff members that are assigned to the front desks to ensure consistent application of our procedures. Thank you for your patience, cooperation and understanding in this very important matter. Together, we will work to continue to provide a safe environment for our entire school community. As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your building principal. Sincerely, John J. Finello Superintendent of Schools http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6911 Thu, 20 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT The John F. Kennedy Elementary School PTA held a special Kindergarten Parent Breakfast on the morning of Sept. 20. PTA President Tracy Rice, Vice President Susan Kavanagh, council delegate Danielle Maccarino, and the membership team, Louise Kniff and Kelly Caragiulo, welcomed the newest parents to the school. Refreshments and tasty treats – including homemade coffeecake – were arrayed in the school’s cafeteria and useful information was presented in a sociable setting. “It was so nice to see such a wonderful turnout of kindergarten parents,” said Rice. “We like to host this informal event so that parents who may have children entering school for the first time can relax and meet other parents like themselves." “I remember how intimidating it was when I first came to a PTA meeting,” recalled Kavanagh. “It is so important to everyone on our board at JFK to make sure that all our new parents feel genuinely welcome and comfortable.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6910 Wed, 19 Sep 2012 16:00:00 GMT The For the Kids Foundation (FTK) will present the organization's 16th annual Carnival this weekend. The fun family festival of games, rides and concessions will take place Sept. 21-23 (Friday through Sunday) on the grounds of Timber Point Elementary School in East Islip. See the attached flyer for ticket and sponsorship information. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6854 Wed, 19 Sep 2012 13:00:00 GMT Sports Results for Week of Sept. 10, 2012 BOYS VARSITY GOLF East Islip defeated Bellport, 8-1, in a Sept. 13 League V game. EI was led by Paul Caliguri, who shot 3-over 39 on the front nine at Bellport Country Club. BOYS VARSITY SOCCER East Islip beat Islip, 4-1, in a non-league contest on Sept. 10, sparked by a career-high 4 points from Brady Benitez. The senior recorded his first career hat trick, adding 1 assist. Other EI scorers were Danny Munar (1 goals, 1 assist) and Foazy Nwaiser (1 assist). East Islip goalies Frank Noviello and Jake Hirx made 4 saves each. The team then beat Riverhead on the road on Sept. 14, winning by a 2-1 score. Four minutes into overtime of the League III game, Benitez put in the winning goal off a Shady George pass. The other EI scorers were Munar (1 goal) and Steven McKenna (1 assist). Noviello made 8 saves. VARSITY FIELD HOCKEY The Lady Redmen shut out Lindenhurst, 3-0, in a Sept. 11 Division II home game. East Islip scorers were: Alexa Martino (2 goals. 1 assist), Nicole Levy (1 goal) and Courtney Bernardini (2 assists). Arianna Kreush recorded 1 save. East Islip won again on Sept. 13, beating Sayville, 2-1. Both goals came from Levy, with assists coming from Martino and Kendall Allmendinger. Kreush made 3 saves. On Sept. 15, EI won their third straight against Connetquot, 3-1, led by Martino’s two goals. Other EI scorers were Bernardini (1 goal), Elizabeth Vetter (2 assists) and Levy (1 assist). VARSITY FOOTBALL The Redmen won their second game of the season with almost as lopsided a score as the season opener. Visiting West Babylon, they came away with a 41-6 victory, led by Matt Walter. The senior earned 67 yards and 2 touchdowns on 7 carries, while kicking two field goals and a perfect 5-for-5 in extra point attempts. QB Casey Nolan went 7-for-11 in passing for 154 yards and TD, plus 120 yards running in 13 carries. Steve Walsh came away with 10 tackles and an interception. Nolan and Mike Lee also tallied interceptions. GIRLS CROSS-COUNTRY East Islip’s girls XC team beat Bay Shore, 33-22, at Sunken Meadow State Park in a League III meet on Sept. 11. The team then competed at the Jim Smith Invitational Races at Sunken Meadow on Sept. 15. Ninth-grader Anya Schmitt won the freshman race, covering the 1.5-mile course in just 9 minutes, 5 seconds, setting a new freshman school record. Juniors Sam Camlica, Emily Fusco, Ali Gallagher, Keira Lund and Kayla Murphy teamed up to win second place overall in the junior race class. Niamh Ashe, a senior at EI, posted the best overall time of the day on the hilly 3.1-mile course, finishing with an outstanding time of 20 minutes, 26 seconds. GIRLS VARSITY SOCCER East Islip won at home, 3-1, against rivals Islip in a Sept. 11 non-league match. Kayla Saager scored a hat trick. Rachel Dempsey and Sydney Cammeyer added 1 assist each. Goalie Kirsten Conway made 10 saves. West Islip blanked EI on Sept. 13, winning 2-0 despite Conway’s 8 saves. GIRLS VARSITY TENNIS The girls tennis team defeated Sayville on Sept. 10 by a 6-1 score. Nicole Damore and Shannon Murphy beat Michelle Coffey and Denise Natoli 6-1, 6-3 at first doubles. Also victorious were Marissa Corrado and Sarah Schreiner at second doubles, and Bridget Kavanagh and Madison Schrader at third doubles. Singles winners were Karen Serina (first), Emily Hyland (second) and Abby Dell’Orto (fourth). On Sept. 12, East Islip downed West Islip, 6-1. Serina defeated Tori Lentzeres 6-2, 6-1 at first singles. Continuing their hot streak, the team beat last year’s League II co-champions Islip on Sept. 14 by a 4-3 score. Corrado and Schreiner beat Carol Ann Lamonica and Haley Wenman 6-1, 1-6, 6-3 in the deciding second doubles match. Singles winners were Serina (first), Christina Hyland (third) and Dell’Orto (fourth). GIRLS VOLLEYBALL At home on Sept. 10, East Islip shut out Smithtown West, 3-0. Kelsey Feliccia had 12 kills and Vanessa Marquez had 14 digs. At North Babylon two days later on Sept. 12, EI blanked their opponents again, winning 3-0. Sarah Barnot had 23 assists and 10 aces and Marques added 11 digs. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6909 Wed, 19 Sep 2012 10:00:00 GMT This year, East Islip High School will be sending home 12th-grade students' rankings in the mail. While the official Senior Ranking Day is on Friday, Oct. 5, with results for the top 10 students announced at 9 a.m., all East Islip seniors will receive their ranking by mail. Rankings will be mailed no later than Oct. 3 and should arrive no later than Oct. 6. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6905 Wed, 19 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT The date for East Islip High School's SADD Car Wash fundraiser has changed. The event will now be held on the former rain date of Sept. 30 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on the corner of Carleton Avenue and Union Boulevard (Islip Town Vehicle Repair Building). The new raindate is Oct. 14 at the same time and place. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6906 Wed, 19 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Demonstrating a true passion to aid education in the East Islip School District, the Islip Rotary Club and Rotary District 7260 recently brought their Legacy of Literacy program to East Islip’s schools, celebrating literacy with elementary students. “I started our Legacy of Literacy program 10 years ago with the inspiration of my own daughter, Ashley Goveia, whose desire to help homeless and needy kids obtain free books lit a passion in our club and its commitment to celebrate and encourage literacy,” explained Cheryl Rambler Goveia, the 2012-2013 president of the Islip Rotary Club and literacy chairperson of Rotary District 7260. “This year, the Islip Rotary Club donated $250 each in gift cards for back-to-school supplies to the East Islip, Islip and Central Islip school districts, as well as backpacks and supplies for each elementary school in East Islip.” Goveia and seven of her fellow Rotarians visited East Islip’s four elementary schools on Sept. 7, and she and Suffolk County Legislator Tom Cilmi presented the supplies, meant to benefit needy East Islip students, to Timber Point Principal Lisa Belz. The four pairs of “Rotarian Readers” then took turns reading books to kindergartners in the different schools. At Timber Point, Goveia read Laura Numeroff’s “If You Give a Pig a Pancake” to the students, while Cilmi, referencing the political process, offered them the chance to vote between “Tiptoe into Kindergarten” by Jacqueline Rogers and “The Night Before Kindergarten” by Natasha Wing. They were delighted when time allowed Cilmi to read both books. Down the road at John F. Kennedy Elementary, local attorney Anthony D’Amico (the current Islip Rotary Club secretary and board member) read “Goldie Locks Has Chicken Pox” by Erin Dealey, while former Islip Rotary president and board member Bob Nathan tackled Eric Carle’s classic “The Very Hungry Caterpillar.” Paired up to read at Ruth C. Kinney Elementary in Islip Terrace were Jason Terhune, another former Islip Rotary president and the owner of IT firm Design of Mine, and Islip Rotary Club President-Elect Ryan Gillies, who works for the James Sutton Insurance Agency. The two Rotarians enjoyed reading “Here’s to You, America” by Charles Schulz to the kindergarten students. At Connetquot Elementary, the students listened raptly to “Pop’s Bridge” by Eve Bunting, read by Rotarians Susan Harvey, a business development associate for Rainbow International of Long Island, and retired NYPD detective Dennis Ciano. Chartered by Rotary International in 1967, the Rotary Club of Islip is an organization of professional and business leaders dedicated to community service. The club meets every Thursday at 12:15 p.m. at the Irish Coffee Pub on Carleton Avenue in East Islip. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6900 Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Information on the 2012-2013 National PTA Reflections Program, including student entry form and category rules, can be found here. This year's theme is "The Magic of a Moment." All projects are due by Nov. 9, 2012. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6885 Mon, 17 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Over the course of the last year, a pond has arrived at East Islip High School, and an empty courtyard by the school’s science wing has been radically transformed into a stunning natural ecosystem focused on local plants and wildlife. Students spent over 100 hours digging out the 20-by-10 pond themselves and planting native grasses as well as wildflowers. Over 3 feet deep, the pond will serve as a home for Long Island’s resident fish, ducks and amphibians. Science students from the high school will be able to observe animal life and conduct water sample tests. Led by teachers Genesis Dawson and Paul McHugh, the pond project was a collaboration among East Islip’s Science Honor Society, the school’s Environment Club and the Environment Green Career Academy. “The Science Honor Society started this project to create a native ecosystem to use for study in science classrooms,” explained Dawson, the Science Honor Society’s adviser. “This way we could do real world studies without having to leave the school grounds. That saves money for the district and students, as they won’t have to leave the school to go on a field trip for lab activities. Since this was such a large project, we recruited both the Environment Club and the Green Academy. Together we have worked on obtaining donations to get the pond up and running.” Israel Malinowitzer, the Environment Green Career Academy’s director, said, “The students and teachers worked many days after school to create this beautifully designed pond. These students are always looking for new ways to help the environment and to make education a wonderful learning experience.” Emphasizing how diligent volunteer efforts made the pond possible, Malinowitzer added, “We hope that students and faculty will stop by and enjoy this new addition to the high school courtyard. This pond is just one more example of East Islip pride!” Donations also went a long way toward seeing the pond come to fruition, according to McHugh, the Environment Club adviser. “We were very fortunate to have received the pond liner as a donation from Firestone,” said Malinowitzer. The pond’s filter system was funded by a grant from the For the Kids Foundation and the compost came from the Town of Islip, while the plantings were donated by the Long Island Native Grasses Association. An important element of East Islip High School’s pond is that it is attuned to the natural world and reflects its scientific purpose, rather than being a manicured water garden intended to please human eyes. “Most people may look at a native ecosystem and think it is just a bunch of weeds and looks un-manicured,” said Dawson. “Ecosystems that are native to Long Island do not look landscaped. As part of succession – a natural cycle – the ecosystem will change over time to include flora and fauna that will keep the balance of the area. The more biodiversity within the courtyard, the more stable the area. The pond and tall grasses are perfect for the ducks that come back every year to have ducklings. We are planning to continue working within the courtyard to add more native plants within the pond and try to get the courtyard to be self-sustainable. It may take a few years of transition and succession – which may look messy but is a work in progress – but we have faith that the courtyard will be used and studied by science classes for years to come.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6870 Sun, 16 Sep 2012 23:00:00 GMT You may know from reading a web posting on Saturday, Sept. 15, that on Friday, Sept. 14, an adult male entered the middle school looking for his daughter. When he was told that she was not a student in the district, he left the premises. The police were immediately notified and since then, our director of security has been in ongoing communication with a detective from the Suffolk County Police Department. This afternoon the detective confirmed that they spoke to the individual who was, in fact, legitimately looking for his daughter. He was instructed by police not to be on the premises of any of the East Islip schools, as the individual is not a resident of the district. Furthermore, we have learned that this individual, named Abraham Lincoln, is registered with the state as a Level II sex offender. While he is not a district resident, we think it is important that you know this information. The police have assured us that they will carefully monitor this situation. You can find out more about this individual by researching public websites, including the New York State Sex Offender Registry. Building principals and all security staff have been made aware of the situation and will remain vigilant as a precautionary measure. In addition, our building principals, security staff and our Suffolk County School Resource officer will be meeting this week to review our security protocols and ensure that proper safety measures are in place in all of our schools. Thank you for your cooperation and if you have any questions, please call your building principal. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6860 Sun, 16 Sep 2012 20:10:00 GMT A spirit of community hope and pride was in the air as the East Islip Board of Education accepted a $70,000 donation from the For the Kids Foundation (FTK) at the Board's first monthly meeting of the 2012-2013 school year, held on Thursday, Sept. 13. Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello began his report to the Board by citing the terrific news and introducing FTK President Nancy Goldfader. She and the other members of the FTK board of directors presented a large ceremonial check to Board President Ken Cronin and Superintendent Finello. FTK’s board had met on July 24, unanimously voting to donate the $70,000 sum for the benefit of the students of the East Islip School District for the 2012-2013 school year. The generous donation is being used to restore some of the clubs and activities that were not funded in this year's budget. “Unfortunately, this year’s school budget did not allow for all clubs and activities to take place,” explained Goldfader. “FTK strongly believes in the importance of extracurricular activities. Leadership, membership, time management and contributing to a community are all benefits of being involved in an extracurricular activity. We worked collaboratively with Mr. Finello and the building principals to restore a wide variety of additional activities. It was our goal to provide an array of options to encourage student involvement.” Among the restored services are boys and girls intramurals at JFK, and Drama Club and Art Club at Connetquot, RCK and Timber Point. Each of the four elementary schools also will receive a $750 stipend for their Families in Need of Services (FINS) assistance programs. At the middle school, reactivated programs include kickline, the school musical, Best Buddies, Renaissance Club, Fitness Club, and boys and girls intramurals. High school activities that will again take place include the school musical, kickline, STARS, Math League, Key Club, Boys Leaders Club, Girls Leaders Club, Environmental Club, Drama Club, Gay/Straight Alliance, art service, and the literary magazine. “Our donations are thanks to the dedication and the continuous encouragement of this wonderful community,” added Goldfader. “When you support our carnival, golf outing and Black Tie Gala, you enable us to provide the highest quality of education to the students of East Islip, because remember, it’s ‘For the Kids…’” In other news, the superintendent congratulated Timber Point for being named a 2012 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education as well as a statewide Reward School (in the “high achieving school” category) by the New York State Education Department. Finello read aloud from the letter sent to Timber Point by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. He also lauded East Islip High School for its achievement in also being named a New York State Reward School (in the “high progress school” category). Lastly, Finello noted the high school’s gift to the district of a special decoration for the boardroom: a framed bronze casting proof of the “Freedom Is Never Free” plaque that was installed in the high school in memory of East Islip graduates who gave their lives in service to the country. Personnel reports included numerous appointments, many in response to the restored programs from the FTK donation. Brian Heyanka, a technology teacher at East Islip Middle School, was one of the new staff in attendance. Donations, aside from the aforementioned gift from FTK, included an air conditioning unit donated by Connetquot special education teacher Crystal Ann Chiari for the classroom use of students with special needs. Also noted was $5,000 provided to the district through the Island Harvest/Verizon "Heroes on Our Island" Sweepstakes, in which East Islip Middle School won first prize. The funds will go toward two Promethean interactive whiteboards. The Board of Education approved the 2012-13 tax levy; a variety of contracts, including special education and consultant service contracts and BOCES agreements; and field trips for the high school kickline team to compete in Orlando, Fla. in March and for the Honors Italian class to travel to Italy next June. Under new business, a Concussion Management policy was presented to the Board for adoption. A special meeting of the Board was announced, to be held on Wednesday, Sept. 19 at 10 a.m., as was the extension of the deadline for community members to sign up for districtwide committees (the new date is Oct. 5). Just as the meeting was coming to a close, East Islip Athletic Booster Club President Sue Perini approached the Board to announce that the Booster Club was providing $4,752 for an intramural weight room. Perini presented a check to Assistant Superintendent for Business Carl Fraser, and the Board immediately approved the donation. The East Islip Board of Education will hold its next regular monthly meeting on Oct. 11 at 8 p.m. The meeting will be held in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6853 Fri, 14 Sep 2012 11:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District is looking for dedicated volunteers from the community to serve on its districtwide committees, working in a wide variety of areas from making budget recommendations, improving student achievement and planning for professional development initiatives to reviewing the district’s programs, technology plan, facility needs and transportation service costs. “Our district embraces a shared decision-making approach which involves all constituencies, parents, staff and administrators in discussing matters that will have an impact on our students and our district – now and in the future,” said Alise Becker-Santa, East Islip’s assistant superintendent for instruction and personnel. She encourages parents and community members to avail themselves of the opportunity to be selected to participate on the districtwide committees established throughout the school year. Among the committees listed for 2012-2013 are two brand-new committees, the Transportation Committee and the Long Range Planning Committee, joining the district’s four pre-existing committees (Excellence in Learning Committee, Finance/Budget Advisory Committee, Professional Development Committee and Technology Committee). A more detailed list can be found here. East Islip residents who are interested in getting involved and making a difference can complete the application to serve on these committees. The deadline for receipt of the applications has been extended to Friday, Oct. 5, 2012. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6505 Fri, 14 Sep 2012 08:00:00 GMT A new anaphylaxis policy is in place in East Islip, spearheaded by local mother Susan Kavanagh, who serves as PTA vice president at John F. Kennedy Elementary. Anaphylaxis is a serious, acute allergic reaction that is often caused by foods, medications or insect venom. Symptoms include hives; itchiness; swelling of the throat, lips, tongue or eyes; wheezing and shortness of breath; and low blood pressure. The primary treatment for this increasingly common condition, which can be deadly if anaphylactic shock results, is an injection of epinephrine (also known as adrenaline). The trade name EpiPen is a common name for the epinephrine autoinjector, the medical device used to inject the life-saving drug. In Kavanagh’s case, the impetus was a frightening incident last November, when her son Spencer, who attends JFK and has multiple food allergies, suffered a life-threatening food allergy accident in school. Luckily, the school was prepared. “I am so thankful for the quick response by the staff members at JFK,” she said. “Their awareness of symptoms and having the medication on hand is what saved his life. I am so thankful to Spencer's teacher and our nurse.” She subsequently learned that while New York State does recommend that its schools develop plans to deal with anaphylaxis, there were no requirements to stock EpiPens for emergencies. In addition to supporting the Emergency Epinephrine Act that was introduced to New York’s legislature, she brought the issue to the attention of the district, which promptly decreed that starting this September, all six of its schools would have EpiPen emergency kits available at all times in the event of an anaphylaxis incident. The Board of Education recently approved the adoption of an official anaphylaxis policy. “The district would like to thank and praise Mrs. Kavanagh, as well as Susan Kosser, East Islip’s assistant superintendent for student support services, for their efforts in bringing these emergency kits into the district,” said East Islip Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello. “The emergency kits have been placed in each building for each school nurse to use as appropriate. In addition to the nurses, the building principals have all been trained in administering the epinephrine when necessary.” A grateful Kavanagh said, “I am so thankful that with communication and education, East Islip agreed to carry nonpatient-specific EpiPens in all our schools starting in September. After my son Spencer was rushed to the hospital last November, I know firsthand the importance of spreading awareness that 'epinephrine and education saves lives'. It's as simple as that – those are the two things that saved my son’s life. My efforts are to get all schools to do what my school is doing. I want that same care and medication available to children who do not yet know they have a food allergy or bee allergy. Time is crucial in anaphylaxis, and I am so proud of Mr. Finello, the administration and our Board of Education for stepping up and getting the medication and training needed in our schools to save lives in the event of an emergency.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6834 Wed, 12 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip boys cross-country team opened the 2012 season with a convincing Sept. 11 win over League III rivals Bay Shore at Sunken Meadow. Senior Shane Martensen grabbed first place in 17:14, followed by teammates Brian Kennedy in second (17:48) and Alex Deveglio in third (18:03). Photos by Glenn Reed. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6816 Tue, 11 Sep 2012 07:00:00 GMT BOYS VARSITY SOCCER East Islip fell to host Half Hollow Hills East, 2-1, in a non-league game on Sept. 8. Brandon Rowlinson scored for East Islip; goalie Jake Hirx made 9 saves. FIELD HOCKEY In a non-league Sept. 7 game, Miller Place blanked East Islip, 2-0. East Islip goalie Arianna Kreush made five saves. GIRLS VARSITY SOCCER EI shut out Bayport-Blue Point, 3-0, in a non-league game on Sept. 8. Kayla Saager led EI in scoring with 2 goals and 1 assist. The other goal came from Sydney Cammeyer. EI goalie Kirsten Conway made 4 saves. GIRLS VARSITY TENNIS East Islip defeated Connetquot, 6-1, on Sept. 7. Sarah Schreiner and Marissa Corrado beat Sienna Frank and Shannon Waring 5-7, 7-6 (8-6) 6-3 at second doubles. Nicole Damore and Shannon Murphy won in first doubles. Singles winners were Karen Serina at first (improving her career league record to an astounding 31-0, Emily Hyland at second, Christina Hyland at third and (in her first varsity start) Abby Dell’Orto at fourth. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6833 Tue, 11 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Revolution Prep will host a SAT workshop at East Islip High School on Sept. 27 from 6-9 p.m. Seniors will learn the essential strategies and concepts that will help them maximize their score on the SAT exam. The cost for this refresher workshop is $10 (free for students who registered for Revolution Prep's spring SAT prep course). Call 877-REV-PREP by Sept. 21 to register for the event. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6813 Tue, 11 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School senior Tyler D’Agostino, a member of the school’s new Medical and Health Technology Career Academy, recently took a big leap forward in his quest for hands-on learning. Over five weeks during this past summer, D’Agostino attended the prestigious Fundamentals of Medicine program at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. Fundamentals of Medicine provides selected high school students with an introduction to a medical school curriculum. The college-level course features both lectures and laboratory work (including patient simulations, blood pressure testing, light microscopic examination of prepared slides and dissections) and earns three college credits for participants. D’Agostino, who plans to make medicine his career, penned an illuminating essay, “My Summer at Georgetown University,” describing his educational and cultural experiences while studying there. The essay and his accompanying photographs can be viewed here. “Tyler’s essay certainly was able to make the reader feel as if he or she were part of his five-week course,” said Career Academy director Israel Malinowitzer, praising D’Agostino’s writing abilities. “I am very proud of his accomplishment and I want to recognize his dedication and hard work in this field.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6797 Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT In collaboration with East Islip High School’s new Medical and Health Technology Career Academy, Unity Pharmacy of East Islip will be offering free monthly workshops to provide students, faculty and community residents with an educational program tackling such medical issues as diabetes, heart health, high and low blood sugar, weight loss, and nutrition. “The purpose of the workshops program is to provide the residents of the Town of Islip with the proper information so they can take care of themselves now, in order to avoid medical complications that can affect their senior years,” said Medical and Health Technology Career Academy director Israel Malinowitzer. “For example, it’s important for everyone to understand why diabetes is so dangerous and how if it is not properly treated, it can cause many other serious conditions that will ultimately endanger the remainder of someone’s life.” The workshops, all to be held at 7:30 p.m. in the high school’s library, will be conducted by Unity Pharmacy owner Bob Matalia. Up first on Tuesday, Sept. 11 was “Overview of Diabetes,” to be followed by “Reducing Your Heart Risk” on Oct. 24. A full schedule of the medical workshops is attached below. For more information or to register for a workshop, contact Israel Malinowitzer at 631-224-2115. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6802 Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip varsity football squad started the 2012 season with a resounding roar, thrilling fans in attendance at their Sept. 7 home opener with a bruising 49-0 victory over rivals Copiague. Ranked only ninth in their Suffolk II division this season, with only two returning starters (TE/DE Casey Stengel and T/NG Dan Hayden), the relatively inexperienced Redmen had something to prove, and prove it they did. Copiague’s Eagles could do little to stop East Islip running back Matt Walter, who racked up 132 yards in eight carries and scored two TDs, including a crowd-pleasing 54-yard run for a score. Andre Deegan also had an impressive day, with 13 carries for 92 yards and two touchdowns. Quarterback Casey Nolan was solid, going 4-for-6 for 20 yards passing, opening the scoring with a TD on the rush and yielding no interceptions. Erik Adon scored the penultimate TD on a Nolan pass. East Islip kept Copiague’s offense (the lowest-scoring in the division last year) down to just 70 yards, led by Stengel’s seven tackles (two for a loss) and Kieren Neefeldt’s six-yard fumble return that resulted in another EI touchdown. Pat Valoy also recovered a Copiague fumble. With Sal J. Ciampi at the helm for his 12th season as EI’s head coach, the confident Redmen clearly showed they believe they can return to the Suffolk County finals. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6782 Sun, 09 Sep 2012 07:00:00 GMT Soccer star and recent East Islip High School graduate Cari Roccaro has added another trophy to her splendid collection with Saturday’s American victory in the under-20 women’s World Cup. The U.S. defeated defending champs Germany, 1-0, on Sept. 8 at Tokyo National Stadium in Japan, after beating Nigeria, 2-0, in the semifinals on Sept. 4. Roccaro, a starter on defense for the World Cup squad, was the 2011-2012 Gatorade New York Girls Soccer Player of the Year (as well as a First Team ESPNHS All-American, a two-time National Soccer Coaches Association of America All-American and Long Island Player of the Year). Now she can put “World Champion” on her resume. Roccaro, 18, will attend Notre Dame University this fall on full scholarship. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6783 Sun, 09 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Public Library is starting a Tween Reading Club, open to all students in grades 6-8. The club's first book will be "The Strange Case of Origami Yoda" by Tom Angleberger, and the discussion will be held at the public library on Thursday, Oct. 11 at 3:30 p.m. East Islip Middle School students should see Mrs. Ware in the school's library for more details, as students must be registered to participate. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6777 Sun, 09 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Timber Point Elementary School in East Islip has received yet another prestigious award. U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan announced today that Timber Point had been named as a 2012 National Blue Ribbon School, based on overall academic excellence. “It is an honor for Timber Point Elementary to be recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School,” said the principal, Dr. Lisa Belz, as congratulations poured in from Belz’s fellow principals, administrators and Board of Education members in East Islip. Acknowledging the selective nature of the award, in which only 268 other American schools were honored this year, East Islip’s Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello said, “Congratulations to Dr. Belz as well as the school’s staff, teachers, students and parents for this wonderful achievement. Timber Point should be commended for the hard work and exemplary commitment to academic goals that enabled the school to receive the National Blue Ribbon designation.” Since its 1982 inception, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has recognized elementary, middle and high schools, both public and private, where students perform at very high levels or where significant improvements are being made in students' levels of academic achievement. Over the last three decades, nearly 7,000 of the nation’s most successful schools have received this superlative award. “Our nation has no greater responsibility than helping all children realize their full potential,” Secretary Duncan said in a statement. “Schools honored with the National Blue Ribbon Schools award are committed to accelerating student achievement and preparing students for success in college and careers. Their work reflects the conviction that every child has promise and that education is the surest pathway to a strong, secure future.” The program recognizes schools in one of two performance categories. Timber Point was chosen in the “Exemplary High Performing” category for schools that are among their state’s highest performing schools, as measured by state assessments or nationally-normed tests. Timber Point was one of only two schools from Suffolk County to receive this honor (the other being Mount Sinai Middle School), and one of only four to be named on Long Island (the two Nassau winners were South Woods Middle School in Syosset and Cantiague Elementary in Jericho). A total of 417 schools may be nominated nationwide for the National Blue Ribbon Schools award. During the selection process, the Department of Education requests nominations from the top education official in every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Department of Defense Education Activity and the Bureau of Indian Education (private schools are nominated by the Council for American Private Education). The secretary of education then invites each nominated school to submit an application for possible recognition as a National Blue Ribbon School. Only 19 schools from New York state were nominated this year. “After Timber Point was nominated last winter,” explained Belz, “we convened a committee to work on creating the application, which took several weeks. The application process was very long, and required very specific information. They asked about parent involvement, our math and ELA curricula, clubs and activities, our mission statement, professional development – a whole slew of things.” Other committee members besides Belz included Donna Beal, Sheryl Beltrami, Cathy Boudart, Vanessa DiPalma, Jeanne Halton, Carla Kellachan, Patrice Mercurio, Jenny O'Connell, Tina Ruggeiro, Jessica Sauers, Jamie Steves, Joan Stone, Jennifer Uss, Joanne Walsh, Kathleen Weiss and Carol Wilson. Representing Timber Point, Belz will attend the recognition ceremony on Nov. 12-13 in Washington, DC, accompanied by fifth-grade teacher Carol Wilson; the program requires the attendance of a winning school’s building principal and one selected teacher. Along with approximately 269 other schools from across the United States, Timber Point will receive a plaque and flag signifying its status as a National Blue Ribbon School. “This award would not have been possible without the support of the entire Timber Point community,” said Belz. “I would like to personally thank the Board of Education, administration, a dedicated faculty and the entire support staff for working together and contributing to the success of our student body.” A list of the 2012 National Blue Ribbon Schools is available here. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6767 Thu, 06 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School seniors Jake Hoina and Alexandra Konnerth took the mic on the morning of Sept. 5 to start the year as the school’s new announcers. Tryouts for the announcer positions were held this past June. School staff listened to applicants and rated them on pronunciation, clarity and overall presentation, and Hoina and Konnerth were recently selected. The enthusiastic pair arrived at the front desk on the opening day of school and were instructed on proper morning announcement procedures before welcoming their fellow students to the 2012-13 school year. After reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, Hoina and Konnerth took turns reading the day’s announcements. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6750 Wed, 05 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT A long, hot summer off came to a close on Wednesday, Sept. 5, as the East Islip School District welcomed students back to the first day of school. From kindergartners to seniors, excitement mingled with pride as students began their journey through the school year. The day began at 7:26 a.m. at East Islip High School, where new freshmen joined returning sophomores, juniors and seniors in the quest for learning. Not long afterward, lines of yellow school buses pulled up to East Islip Middle School in time for its 8:13 a.m. opening. While it was business as usual at the high school and middle school, the four elementary schools in the district – Connetquot, John F. Kennedy, Ruth C. Kinney and Timber Point – started their school days at a new, uniform time of 9:35 a.m. “The halls of Connetquot Elementary were filled with the sounds of laughter and excited conversations,” said Principal Deborah Smith. “The children eagerly arrived in their classrooms and were greeted by staff members who were equally happy to be back again from the summer vacation. Instruction immediately began and students were reading, singing, creating artwork, participating in physical education classes, learning new concepts and gaining new knowledge. We are all thrilled to begin a new school year.” At Timber Point Elementary, Principal Lisa Belz was there to warmly greet students old and new. “The first day went smoothly,” remarked Belz. “It was wonderful to see all our students so eager to begin the new year.” Danielle Naccarato, the principal of RCK, was equally thrilled for school to be back in session. “We at RCK are all very excited to start off the 2012-2013 school year,” said Naccarato. “The students and teachers entered the school this morning with enthusiasm and great big smiles. I am sure it is going to be a terrific year.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6742 Tue, 04 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School Principal Mark Bernard welcomed the school’s newest students to the sixth-grade orientation on Sept. 4, giving them a chance to familiarize themselves with their classrooms and lockers. The new middle schoolers also met their teachers in Team Amethyst (Toni Alberghine, Mary Connelly and Jennifer Esposito), Team Diamond (Steve Safrany), Team Emerald (Brian Deedy, William Raftery, Jessica Rella and Mary Ellen Straub), Team Jade (Barry Entin, Janice Laube, Allison Mastik and Terrance O’Neill) and Team Topaz (Lisa Boehler, Donna DiNapoli and Carol Ann Hennessy). http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6723 Mon, 03 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Drizzly skies couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm of hundreds of youngsters as teachers and staff at all four of the East Islip School District's elementary schools – John F. Kennedy and Timber Point in East Islip, Connetquot and Ruth C. Kinney in Islip Terrace – welcomed the newest district students and their parents to kindergarten orientation on Sept. 4. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6724 Mon, 03 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s fall sports program revved into action with practices on Aug. 27, ready for a new season of challenges and championships. On the athletic agenda are boys and girls cross-country, boys varsity golf, boys varsity and JV soccer, varsity and JV cheerleading, varsity and JV field hockey, girls varsity gymnastics, girls varsity and JV soccer, girls varsity and JV tennis, girls varsity and JV volleyball, and varsity and JV football. Girls varsity volleyball coach Stacie Wixted is very pleased with this year’s lineup. “The team has eight returning players and is looking to do some damage in the playoffs this year,” said Wixted. “Brianna Heffernan, rookie of the league last year, is becoming an all-around volleyball player and will be hitting outside. Libero Vanessa Marques lets nothing hit the ground and should be in the running for defensive player in Suffolk County. Cathy Marku will take over the middle and is a blocking machine. Mariah Cullen, a new captain, has stepped up to the challenge of playing middle, a new position for her, and she has the speed to quicken our offense. Brianna Baier is a defensive specialist who we will count on to serve up some aces for us. Hannah Reilly will be our secret weapon out of the right side blocking and hitting for us. Sarah Varnot and Kelsey Felicia will be our other two team captains and we look to them for consistent play and leadership. They are both excellent all-around players and we expect great things from them on the court this season. We have added freshman Hether Zenk, sophomore Megan Munn and junior Danielle Drywa to round out the squad, and I know that they will add depth to our team.” After tough tryouts, the boys varsity golf team for the 2012 season was selected. “This year we will be playing in a new league and facing great teams such as Sayville and Bayport-Blue Point,” noted coach Chris Robertson. “We will be looking to repeat as league champions and have retained many of last year's starters. Keep an eye out for team members Paul Caliguri, Frank Argenti, AJ Carracino and Hunter Ingram.” The girls cross-country team will open its season against Bay Shore on Sept. 11 at Sunken Meadow State Park, led by its captains, seniors Kelsey Fryer and Grace Revello. According to coach Steve Brown, the team’s other key runners are freshman Anya Schmitt, juniors Alison Gallagher and Kayla Murphy, and seniors Niamh Ashe, Emily Fusco and Grace Revello. “We are looking forward to a great season,” said girls JV soccer coach David Lake. “The team is looking very strong and is working extremely hard to eventually get to the varsity level. I believe the varsity team will be very successful and we will be of great help to them in the future.” Swim coach Marguerite Gomez is still working on her roster, as the swim team starts later than the other fall teams due to the team being independent. Gomez cited Julia Llewellyn (a state qualifier last year) as a swimmer to watch. East Islip’s varsity football squad began practicing on Aug. 16, a bit earlier than the other teams. The Redmen are looking to return to the county championship game for the second year in a row. The team’s first two games of the season have been rescheduled. The first game, at home against Copiague, is now being held on Friday, Sept. 7 at 4 p.m., while the second, an away game in West Babylon on Sept. 14, has been moved up to 7 p.m. "I would like to wish all of our fall varsity and JV teams the best of luck this upcoming season," said Stephen Restivo, the district's director of health, physical education and athletics. "I appreciate all of the hard work that our coaches and student athletes put in each and every day." http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6722 Sun, 02 Sep 2012 14:00:00 GMT Two schools in the East Islip School District – East Islip High School and Timber Point Elementary School – were named “Reward Schools” in an Aug. 30 announcement by the New York State Education Department. The high school and Timber Point are two of 250 schools in 164 school districts in New York to receive this recognition for the past school year. According to the Education Department, Reward Schools are those that have either made the most progress or that have the highest achievement in New York state and do not have significant gaps in student achievement that aren’t being closed. “This is wonderful news for the whole Timber Point community,” said Principal Lisa Belz. “The teachers and students have worked very hard and this recognition is proof that it has paid off.” William Brennen, the principal at the high school, also expressed great pride in the Reward Schools designation on behalf of all concerned. "These designations are a tribute to the hard work, enthusiasm and dedication of our administrators, teachers and support staff," remarked Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello. "All of the East Islip schools are in good standing and have a fine academic program in place for our students. We applaud and are proud of the efforts of all of our faculty, staff and parents." "Congratulations to Dr. Belz, Mr. Brennen, their staff and students on this achievement,” added East Islip Board of Education President Ken Cronin. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6692 Thu, 30 Aug 2012 09:00:00 GMT For eight seniors from East Islip High School’s Class of 2012, the school’s summer graduation on Aug. 29 proved to be an event worth waiting for. Six of the graduates – Joseph Chiusano, John Fusco, David Gomez, Frank James, Jamie Karl and Nicholas Pinzon – attended the commencement ceremony at the high school’s library with their proud families and friends cheering them on. (Christie Azzato and Christian Monk also graduated but were unable to attend.) Clad in red robes and mortarboard caps, the six students marched into the library to the familiar strains of “Pomp and Circumstance,” followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and speeches from Principal William Brennen and Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello. Other district representatives in attendance included Board of Education President Ken Cronin, Board Vice President Louis F. Raffone, Assistant Superintendent for Business Carl Fraser, Director of Humanities Sarajean Anderson, and Director of Careers and Student Services Israel Malinowitzer. Brennen told the graduates to be proud of their achievement and that what mattered most is that they graduated from East Islip High School, not when the commencement took place. He then gave his usual “old Irish blessing,” telling them, “Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.” President Ken Cronin duly presented each of the new alumni with a diploma, and without further delay, the informal celebrations began. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6691 Thu, 30 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT Please be reminded that the first day of school for students is Wednesday, Sept. 5. School Hours for Students East Islip High School: 7:26 a.m.–2:05 p.m. East Islip Middle School: 8:13 a.m.–2:52 p.m. Connetquot Elementary School: 9:35 a.m.–3:35 p.m. John F. Kennedy Elementary School: 9:35 a.m.–3:35 p.m. Ruth C. Kinney Elementary School: 9:35 a.m.–3:35 p.m. Timber Point Elementary School: 9:35 a.m.–3:35 p.m. Schedules and Orientations Kindergarten: Kindergarten orientation will be held Tuesday, Sept. 4 between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. East Islip High School: Schedules for grades 10, 11 and 12 will be mailed home on Thursday, Aug. 30. Ninth-grade schedules were already distributed to freshmen students prior to the ninth-grade orientation, which was held on Aug. 28. East Islip Middle School: Schedules for grades 6, 7 and 8 will be mailed home on Thursday, Aug. 30. Team supply lists can be found here. Sixth-grade orientation will be held Tuesday, Sept. 4, as follows: Team Amethyst Time: 12:45 p.m. Teachers: Ms. Alberghine, Ms. Connelly, Ms. Esposito, Ms. Carroll Location: Auditorium Team Topaz Time: 12:45 p.m. Teachers: Mrs. DiNapoli, Mrs. Hennessy, Mrs. Boehler, Mrs. Hummel Location: Cafeteria Team Jade Time: 1:15 p.m. Teachers: Mr. Entin, Mrs. Laube, Ms. Mastik, Mr. O’Neill, Ms. Pelosi Location: Auditorium Team Emerald Time: 1:15 p.m. Teachers: Mr. Deedy, Mr. Raftery, Mrs. Straub, Mrs. Rella Location: Cafeteria Team Diamond Time: 1:15 p.m. Teacher: Mr. Safrany Location: Room 210 Team All Stars Time: 1:15 p.m. Teachers: Ms. O’ Connell, Mrs. Granville Location: Room 225 http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6662 Wed, 29 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT Payschools, the online system for prepaying student lunches, has been discontinued. A new online prepayment program called mySchoolBucks will be in place shortly and will be linked to the district website. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6512 Wed, 29 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT Parents should be aware that some snacks may include ingredients that contain life-threatening allergens, and snacks can be manufactured using equipment that is also used to make products containing these allergy-causing substances. Click here for a list of safe snacks. Please note that the list does not include all allergens, and product labels should be checked at every purchased in case the manufacturer changes ingredients or production methods. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6667 Tue, 28 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT Preparations for the 2012-13 school year were the main focus at the East Islip Board of Education's final monthly meeting of the summer, held on Tuesday, Aug. 21. In his report to the Board, Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello began by providing a detailed facilities update, commending the excellent work of the buildings and grounds staff. He noted that classroom and corridor waxing and cleaning were on schedule to be finished by either Aug. 24 or 27. At East Islip High School, a small asbestos abatement project in the basement was completed, and an air conditioning compressor replaced. At East Islip Middle School, courtyard trees were trimmed, the gym floor was sanded down and refinished, and tennis court cracks were fixed. Tree trimming was also performed at Connetquot Elementary. At John F. Kennedy Elementary, new tile was installed in the office and paving was repaired. A modular unit behind Timber Point Elementary School was repainted and refurbished to be put back in service as a community room. Finello also noted other districtwide upgrades, including repair of the athletic tracks and the relocation of the student data, assessment and technological services department to an expanded and renovated new office. After noting that school would reopen for staff on Sept. 4 and for students on Sept. 5, Finello confirmed that new teacher orientation would take place Aug. 28-30, while the kindergarten and middle school orientations would be held Sept. 4. Personnel reports included numerous appointments. Among the new staff in attendance were math teacher Eleftheria Ballas, science teacher Sheryl Ingoglia, foreign language teacher Vanessa Salubro and music teacher Alyssa Sciarrino, all to work at East Islip High School, as well as new East Islip Middle School special education teacher Kathleen Carroll. The Board of Education approced a variety of contracts as well as a field trip to New York City next April for the high school's Career Academy. Two donations were announced: an upgrade to the JFK Cafetorium tables, and six Johnson Diversey Trailblazer finish applicators for use by the buildings and grounds department. Eric Woellhof, the new plant and facilities administrator, noted that the finish applicators would reduce time and waste for the district. Under new business, the Board approved five policies: Internet Safety/Internet Content Filtering, Anaphylaxis, Response to Intervention, Attendance and Code of Conduct. The East Islip Board of Education will hold its next regular monthly meeting on Thursday, Sept. 13. The meeting will be held at 8 p.m. in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6660 Mon, 27 Aug 2012 17:00:00 GMT The halls were filled with excited new faces on Aug. 28 as East Islip High School welcomed the Class of 2016 to the school’s 2012-13 ninth-grade orientation. Kicking off the presentation in the auditorium, Principal William Brennen welcomed the incoming freshmen and urged them to participate in extracurricular activities. “The key to success is to get involved,” he said, emphasizing the positive role of the school’s clubs. “Participating will help you acquire leadership skills, as well as a sense of pride, belonging and accomplishment.” The principal also made the new freshmen aware that high school would be a major step up in accountability and seriousness, stressing the strictness of the school’s no-cellphone policy and noting that their eventual graduation would be predicated on completing required credits. “Everything in high school counts,” said Brennen. “You’re young adults now and we have high expectations for you.” Brennen introduced the students to the school’s three administrators (Assistant Principal Nicholas Bilotti, Assistant Principal Michael Thorley and Athletic Director Stephen Restivo, who will now also serve double duty as an assistant principal) and five guidance counselors (Christopher Boehler, Jessica Pignataro, Perri Sachs, Jennifer Salvaggio and Nicole Vincenti). “These are the people to go to for help and assistance,” Brennen told the students. After recommending that his newest students take time to examine their schedules, find their classrooms and inspect their lockers, Brennen ended the presentation on a positive note, introducing the featured speaker: East Islip alumnus, athlete and professional motivator Rohan Murphy. Sharing his experiences in overcoming disability, in which he rose above his seeming limitation of having no legs to become a champion wrestler, Murphy showed the students a video clip of his recent appearance on ABC’s “20/20.” In a strong effort to inspire the new freshmen, he told them, “Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t achieve your goals and dreams. Go home tonight and set a goal for yourself.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6659 Mon, 27 Aug 2012 12:00:00 GMT Due to a change in scheduling, all senior parking permit applications are now due to be dropped off at the high school's main office by 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 4. This is a change from the form that students will receive with their senior packet. The application can be downloaded here. The drawing for the parking permits will take place as scheduled on Sept. 4 at 12 p.m. in the high school cafeteria. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6651 Mon, 27 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School chief custodian Felix Gonzalez recently added some visual pizzazz to the school’s front lobby by painting a large red-and-black “EI” logo on the floor, just in time for the start of classes next week. Gonzalez was inspired to create the logo painting during visits to other Long Island schools. “I saw how they used school logos in their lobbies to create a sense of pride,” he said. “I wanted to use my artistic talent for a nice welcome, and everybody loves it.” The painting work took Gonzalez approximately eight hours to complete, but the wow factor will inspire East Islip pride in students for years to come. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6656 Mon, 27 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT New York State Health Law mandates that all students who are 11 years old and entering sixth grade receive the Tdap immunization. Proof from your child’s physician must be received in the East Islip Middle School health office by Wednesday, Sept. 5. The middle school nurses will be available on Tuesday, Sept. 4 to receive all paperwork. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6636 Sun, 26 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT The first practice date for East Islip High School fall sports is Monday, Aug. 27, with the exceptions of cheerleading (which began on Tuesday, July 10) and football (which started on Aug. 16). Click here for detailed information on practice dates and times through Sept. 3, including boys and girls varsity cross-country, boys varsity golf, boys varsity and JV soccer, varsity and JV cheerleading, varsity and JV field hockey, girls varsity gymnastics, girls varsity and JV soccer, girls varsity and JV tennis, and girls varsity and JV volleyball. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6442 Sun, 26 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT One of the most valuable learning experiences at East Islip High School is the school’s comprehensive mentoring program, managed by the East Islip/Dowling School Business Partnership’s Career Development Committee. “The students receive information and advice on everything from what college courses they should take to how to ask for a raise when they have attained years of experience in the field,” explained teacher Paul McHugh, a member of the Career Development Committee. “I am thrilled so many of our high school students do their part to discover what career opportunities await after graduation.” “It is wonderful to see the students make that jump from high school to the business world,” added teacher Bridget Lopiccolo, who organizes East Islip’s Mentor Me program each year. “It always amazes me to see the students go from ‘This sounds like something I should do and would look good on my transcript’ to ‘I can really see myself in that field.’ For me as a teacher, it’s as if they walk in the door high school students and walk out a determined workforce with a bright future.” The mentoring experience begins each fall with the Catch-a Career Breakfast, held last year on Oct. 19. The 2011 event featured Suffolk County Legislator Tom Cilmi (a frequent mentoring participant) as the guest speaker, and over 30 professionals serving as table facilitators from such organizations as Dowling College, Capital One Bank, Paul Davis Restoration, Good Samaritan Hospital, Motorola, Terrace Apothecary, Suffolk Transportation Services, the Riverhead Foundation, Newsday, the Hospice Care Network, the Food Network, GE Aviation, the Suffolk County Crime Lab and Rockefeller Group Technology Solutions, Inc. “The East Islip/Dowling Catch-a-Career Breakfast is a truly unique experience for our students in that they can sit one-on-one with business professionals in their career interest area and learn firsthand what that career entails,” said McHugh. The Mentor Me program is entering its 10th year at East Islip High, and normally ranges from 40-90 student participants. It consists of two parts: an initial Meet My Mentor Breakfast, followed by Shadow Day. Said Lopiccolo, “The students take the information learned at Catch-a-Career and narrow down their career choice. Then they sign up for the mentoring program, where they will meet and shadow a person in their chosen career.” Last year’s Meet My Mentor Breakfast was held at the East Islip High School library on Nov. 22, 2011, with students encountering business professionals in their career field of interest. The experienced professionals shared detailed career information including responsibilities and educational requirements. The event and the program in general are mutually beneficial, as the businessperson may gain a future employee while the student obtains valuable experience in his or her chosen field and advice on college choices and internships. Last year, student Kate Deubel, who wants to pursue a baking career, connected with Augie Cunha, an Entenmann’s representative, in a particularly successful example of mentor pairing. The students then shadowed their selected career mentors on Shadow Day, which took place on Dec. 15, 2011 and again on Jan. 19, 2012. Among the participants were Mary Simonetti, who shadowed Assistant Superintendent for Business Carl Fraser; Jessica Wenk, whose mentor was local attorney Anthony D’Amico; and Brian Converso, who visited the Suffolk County Police 3rd Precinct in Bay Shore. As the East Islip mentoring program gears up for the 2012-2013 school year, a new generation of students will find mentors and begin anew the process of discovering their ideal careers. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6665 Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT Since February 2012's initial feature on the East Islipschool community's outstanding efforts to send packages and donations to U.S. Marines stationed in Afghanistan, emails and photos from these grateful troops have continued to pour in. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6603 Thu, 16 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} Two U.S. Marines paid three visits to East Islip this past spring, meeting with numerous classrooms, teachers, students, and district administrators and staff. Sgt. Brian Gomez visited on March 30, while Sgt. Christopher Florea came to East Islip on April 4 and June 15. “It was a surprise for the teachers and classes who have helped support our troops,” said teacher Rena Costello, who planned the events. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6594 Wed, 15 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT Sisters Amanda and Madison Engrassia, both 14 and students in Barbara Tubello’s class at East Islip Middle School, ran their own neighborhood collection this year to donate items to American troops in Afghanistan. One man who was particularly touched by the Engrassia sisters’ efforts was Terence D'Alesandro, a gunnery sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps whose unit had been the recipient of extensive donations from the East Islip school community. ”There are lot of adults who could learn a lesson from these girls,” said D’Alesandro, now a Marines drill instructor in San Diego, Calif. “When you’re deployed you miss home because you’re human,” added Sgt. D’Alesandro. “As a Marine, you are a warrior and there’s nothing you’d rather do than be with your fellow Marines and fight for your country. However, the human side gets you when you least expect it, and mail call is one of those times. I don’t care how hard you are or how combat-experienced you are, getting a package from back home turns combat-hardened Marines into little boys at Christmas. What these girls did, even though they weren’t there to see it, was make a Marine’s day in Afghanistan by giving him a box to open when he may not have gotten mail in weeks. I’ve been ‘that Marine’ a bunch of times myself, and you sit down on your sleeping bag and open up the package, and you feel like someone back home ‘gets it.’ It’s not about the war or why we are there…it’s about the Marines on the ground, five thousand miles away from home, who are simply doing their job in brutal conditions. These girls reminded them of sanity, normalcy and what America is really about. God bless them and all of those Americans who can separate the war from the warrior and who, whether they know someone over there or not, can spend time doing something for an anonymous Marine just because they care about making him smile in a combat zone.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6592 Tue, 14 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT Business is in the future for recent East Islip High School alumnus Kyle Harris, who leaves on Aug. 16 to attend High Point University in North Carolina. “I selected High Point because it has small class sizes, a nice location and a beautiful campus,” he said. “It also offers an excellent business program, and I plan to make business my career.” The commencement ceremony on June 23 is still fresh in Harris’ memories. “It was a great day,” he reminisced. “I will truly miss everyone at East Islip High School.” A key to his success and career plans is his experiences in East Islip’s International Business Globalization Career Academy program. “My senior year was unbelievable and I was fortunate enough to be considered for a spot in the Career Academy,” Harris said. “It made a world of difference as to how I look at education and what it has to offer. The program offered all of the students an education that combined classroom learning with business interaction and field trips that opened our eyes and our minds. The International Business Globalization Career Academy made a huge difference in my life. Being a part of all the activities, field trips and competitions brought all of us – teachers and students alike – to a special place where we all are just like family.” Harris was one of three East Islip students to participate in the 2012 Virtual Enterprises International Global Business Challenge, held in Manhattan. “I was honored to compete,” said Harris. “The Virtual Enterprise trade fair provided students the opportunity to compete with over two hundred schools from around the world and taught all of us how important it is to be a good salesman if you want your company to do well.” The Career Academy’s virtual company, Mobile Revolution, provided a particular avenue for Harris to shine and gain confidence in his financial abilities. He said, “Mobile Revolution has been in existence for two years and has managed to keep earning revenues and paying off any expenses owed. I was chosen by the firm to be the company’s payroll supervisor. For the entire school year, I had to make sure that payroll was properly handled. I had many opportunities throughout the school year to sit down with business leaders, to ask questions, and to learn what it entails to run a business and how important it is to keep your records accurate. My experiences as a payroll supervisor and my desire to learn more about business have influenced me so that I am now ready to pursue my career and major in business administration and accounting.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6583 Mon, 13 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT Orientation for incoming sixth-graders at East Islip Middle School will be held on Sept. 4, the day before school starts. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6566 Wed, 08 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students at John F. Kennedy Elementary in East Islip had the chance this summer to contribute to the creation of a magnificent mosaic tile mural, to be permanently displayed in front of the school. East Islip artist Kate Hanley’s “Be a Part of Art” schoolwide art project involved the construction of a large mosaic tile mural, aided by the creativity of the school’s students and totally funded through the generosity of local community members and businesses who donated time, manpower and materials. Hundreds of 6-by-6-inch tiles, colored in vivid hues of light and cobalt blue, white, green, yellow and red, were painted by JFK art teacher Donna Bernard’s students when Hanley visited their classroom in June. Each child had the opportunity to create his or her own individual tile over the course of the week-long effort, assisted by Bernard and Hanley. Alita Tile of Bohemia donated over 500 tiles for the project, while the paint was provided by East Islip Paint. “A wonderful collaboration took place between the PTA, Mrs. Bernard, the students and the entire faculty,” noted JFK Principal Aileen O’Rourke. Hanley, an East Islip resident from the age of 9, has painted since she was a young girl, working in acrylic and ink. Her work has been featured in several local gallery shows. “The subject manner I mainly focus on is life around water,” she said. Self-taught, she worked as a painter for a local publication, “Great South Bay Magazine,” for over 10 years, creating the cover art for each monthly issue. Last October she left the magazine to concentrate on starting her own homeware collection, showcasing pillows, linens and prints of her artwork. “I am currently creating my own fabric using my paintings, which has been really exciting,” she said. Hanley also teaches painting to both children and adults at the Bay Shore YMCA. The impetus for “Be a Part of Art” was Hanley’s belief in art as a positive creative force for community solidarity and inspiration. She said, “I always believe what you give is what you get back. Throughout the year I do a lot of donations of my work to local charities. In that vein, I feel that art should not be presented as lofty and abstract but accessible to everyone. I wanted to start something in the school that was inclusive, that reached and benefited all students and faculty alike and would draw attention to the arts from the community. Once I had the title, ‘Be a Part of Art,’ I needed a project – one that would not impact the school financially. For months I brainstormed and talked to people until I came up with the plan, which I presented to Principal O’Rourke and the PTA. I envisioned a project where each kid could create a piece of art of their own on tile, and we’d take all the tiles collectively and create a permanent outdoor art installment for the school.” The next step after the students had finished their painting was constructing the impressive frame for the mural. Mike Dickson of Fire Island Contracting built the entire wood frame at his place of business and brought it over to the JFK site on July 24 to construct and secure it, assisted by Hanley’s husband Andrew of Blackfoot Painting. On July 26, Hanley and JFK PTA Vice President Susan Kavanagh began breaking the tiles with hammers to obtain mosaic pieces and gluing the resulting tile chips into the mural framework, working from Hanley’s seascape design incorporating the ocean, sun, clouds, sailboats and – quintessentially emblematic of East Islip – a lighthouse. The two women and JFK student helpers (including Hanley’s daughters Lilly and Ginger, and Kavanagh’s sons Hunter and Spencer) completed the placement of the tile pieces on July 31, under sunny skies and in the enthusiastic presence of community members, local media and East Islip Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello. In a final phase of the project, Andrew Hanley, aided by Dickson, sealed and grouted the tiles and stained the frame. The finished mosaic mural will be unveiled to the public in September. “The kids will get to see their piece become a beautiful mural,” said Kavanagh. “This is a great way to connect the students with the community.” The emphasis on the mural being outdoors was both deliberate and meaningful for Hanley. She explained, “The reason is so that community members can drive by and actually see what they donated to. And to reflect this concept that art really can enhance all people and spaces, and hopefully have the idea spread and encourage other ideas of creativity to form.” “‘Be a Part of Art’ is a rewarding project that the entire community will enjoy for years to come,” added O’Rourke. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6552 Mon, 06 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Connetquot Kids Club held their own Alex’s Lemonade Stand on June 4 and 6, selling lemonade for an hour after school on each day to fight childhood cancer. Hosted by Connetquot special education teacher Crystal Ann Chiari and social worker Vivian VanKoolwijk, the event raised $640.21 for the Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation, to aid children with cancer. The charity’s goals include raising awareness of childhood cancer causes, funding research on new treatments and cures, and encouraging children to get involved in the effort against the disease. The lemonade project began during sessions of the Kids Club, a program held throughout the year by Chiari and VanKoolwijk. “Vivian and I worked with the students in the general education classes and students with special needs to build social skills, build friendships and practice using these skills in and outside of school,” explained Chiari. “The students in the general education classes were fourth- and fifth-graders that Vivian trained and mentored so that they were aware of the skills that we were working on – of various disabilities and how to interact, prompt and redirect the students with special needs. All the students created many social skills and friendships. It was great to see them in the hallways, assemblies and lunchroom interacting. Connetquot has amazing students that are caring and accepting of everyone, and the students have really grown together.” During the Kids Club’s final session of 2011-2012, the students used the various skills they had worked on to learn about Alex's Foundation and ways they could help, and then create their lemonade stand, making posters, painting the stands and selling the refreshing drinks. “All of the students could not wait to open the stand,” said Chiari. “Vivian and I are so proud of the students and amazed that they far surpassed their goal of 100 dollars.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6547 Sun, 05 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education will hold a special meeting on Monday, Aug. 6 at 8:45 a.m.. The meeting, regarding special education stipulation, will be open to the public. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6538 Wed, 01 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT Three prominent medical professionals visited East Islip at the end of the 2011-12 school year for a special symposium, speaking to the students that have enrolled in East Islip High School’s new Medical and Health Technology Career Academy program, which will begin in September 2012. Joanne Snapp, director of admissions for Hofstra Medical College, discussed the requirements necessary for pursuing a career in the medical field and answered questions from the students. Snapp offered them a tour of the college and the opportunity to visit Hofstra’s new medical school. “She told them that she was very impressed with the new Medical Academy and is willing to help them with anything to prepare for college,” said Israel Malinowitzer, the director of the Career Academies. “She did suggest that students planning to attend a medical school should become familiar with the school’s requirements and make sure they are taking as many science classes as they can. She also told them to send their transcripts to Hofstra Medical College because there may be some special opportunities for them coming from the Career Academy program.” A second speaker was Carol Boyer, the corporate human resources director of compensation strategies at the North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System. Boyer detailed the different jobs available at North Shore-LIJ and what skills are required for those jobs. “She also was very supportive of the program,” remarked Malinowitzer. “She volunteered to be a part of the advisory committee going forward next year.” The final speaker was Alexandra Lucs, a bio-researcher at the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, who told the fascinated students about the research projects she has worked on during her career. Malinowitzer said, “The symposium was a huge success. It opened the students’ eyes as to what they need to do now in order to prepare for their senior year and after graduation. We plan on having many more symposium meetings after school throughout the 2012-13 school year. Our goal is to provide our students with every bit of information they will need to compete against other students who are applying to these medical schools. We also want them to have an edge as far as knowing the people who are involved in the field and closely connected to the colleges.” The symposium was arranged by Cheryl Davidson, the director of workforce readiness for North Shore-LIJ. Davidson, who will serve on the Medical and Health Technology Career Academy’s advisory committee, recently donated 40 North Shore-LIJ hospital lab jackets for each of the students in the Academy. Headquartered in Great Neck, the North Shore-LIJ healthcare network has become a major supporter of the new EI Career Academy. Joseph Cabral, North Shore-LIJ’s senior vice president and chief human resources officer, has already met and personally corresponded with the Academy’s students and offered them internships. Cabral, who also serves as the coordinator of the new Long Island STEM Hub, plans to take a more active role as an advisor to the new Career Academy during 2012-13. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6527 Sun, 29 Jul 2012 10:00:00 GMT Islip Terrace’s Danielle Kaczynski, who graduated from Connetquot Elementary this June and will attend sixth grade at East Islip Middle School in September, won the title of 2012 Miss Pre-Teen Photogenic New York. Aided by numerous local businesses that sponsored her, Danielle’s victory in the age 10-12 division took place at a May 19 pageant competition. She won an expense-paid trip to Orlando, Fla. where she will represent New York at the national 2012 Miss Pre-Teen competition later this year. Before graduation, Danielle served as vice president of Connetquot’s student council. She sang at Radio City Music Hall with the Connetquot Chords chorus group last December, and as a soloist at the dedication of the new Connetquot playground on June 6. She also performed in the school’s winter and spring concerts, both in the chorus and as a flutist and drummer in the advanced band. She has participated in East Islip Competition Cheerleading (EICC) since first grade and counts gymnastics, modeling and acting as her other main activities. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6526 Tue, 24 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT The 10th-graders in East Islip High School English teacher Greg Kguloian’s classes pulled out all the stops for their final Lit.2 Life project for the academic year. Created and filmed in June by the students in the school’s television production studio, with the cooperation of technology instructor James Connell, “Lit.2 Life 3” served as a humorous homage to “America's Most Wanted” and a bridge from language arts to technology. “The ‘America's Most Wanted’ angle was inspired – it gave credulity to this project,” explained Kguloian. “My students took a fictional character, Miro Shantas, from the novel ‘After the First Death’ by Robert Cormier, and created an episode of ‘America's Most Wanted’ where Miro’s story was the theme.” The students found the work enjoyable but were dead serious when it came time to go on camera. “The kids had so much fun laughing and working together to decide, in common, which script to use and how to present it,” Kguloian explained. “But when the video began recording, it turned into a student version of a movie set. The actors suddenly became very serious and concerned on camera. This was one of the best after-school extra-credit opportunities of the year. Who said education can't be enjoyable?” The student-made video can be viewed here. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6507 Mon, 23 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT Honoring local entrepreneur and community supporter Dominick DeNinno, East Islip's For the Kids Foundation held its 13th annual Golf Outing and After Party on June 18 at the Island Hills Golf Club in Sayville. After a breakfast buffet and entertaining day of golf, FTK participants enjoyed dinner, raffles, auctions and recognition ceremonies. “We were thrilled to host the Golf Outing at Island Hills,” said FTK director Margaret Burnham, who co-chaired the event with Joan Sexton. “It was a perfect June day with over 100 golfers and an additional 65 dinner guests. Our honoree, Dominick DeNinno, provided Italian ices for the golfers, and an East Islip student, Jake Guadagno of Showtime DJs, generously donated his time and talents to entertain the attendees. Our students are truly learning to give back through our example and we couldn’t be prouder.” DeNinno, the owner of Rita’s Italian Ice in East Islip for the past dozen years and a former social studies teacher at Bay Shore Middle School for 33 years, has long been a strong supporter of FTK’s mission and the East Islip scholastic community in general. Several generations of East Islip students have participated in car wash fundraisers in DeNinno’s parking lot at Rita’s, to name one of his many efforts. “Dominick has given of himself in countless ways to the East Islip community and was equally excited about being honored,” remarked Burnham. The event also gave special recognition to the retiring Robert Tartaglia, the district’s longtime plant and facilities administrator and a member of the high school’s Class of ’72, for his many years of dedicated service to the community. “Bob has been one of FTK’s biggest ‘cheerleaders’ from its inception,” said Burnham. “We are truly fortunate to call both Bob and Dominick friends of FTK.” Suffolk County Legislator Tom Cilmi was in attendance and presented DeNinno with an honorary proclamation. “FTK was pleased and so thankful to all those who continue to support our events,” added Nancy Goldfader, the group’s president. “It allows us to give back to the students of the East Islip School District.” Next up on the organization’s calendar is the popular annual FTK Carnival, which will run from Sept. 21-23 this year. Burnham said, “We’re looking forward to the Carnival and hope to see you all there!” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6499 Sun, 22 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students at Timber Point Elementary participated in a schoolwide cancer awareness art project for Relay for Life, organized by art teacher Christina Spera and kindergarten teacher Michele Brodtman in conjuction with the American Cancer Society. Kindergartners through fifth-graders designed white paper luminaria bags that were lit up with tea lights and placed along the relay track at Bay Shore’s Brook Avenue Elementary School during the Relay for Life event in May. "Rely for Life celebrates the lives of those who have battled cancer, remembers those lost and empowers individuals to fight back against the disease," explained Brodtman. "It is a family-oriented team event that brings participants from all parts of the community together in a 'celebration of life.' Since the East Islip community does not currently have its own Relay for Life, we supported our neighboring event, the Relay for Life of Bay Shore." http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6544 Wed, 18 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT Please be advised that beginning with the 2012-2013 school year, the East Islip School District will not be providing late bus transportation to private and parochial schools or for East Islip School District students. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6490 Mon, 16 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT Two East Islip Middle School students’ dedicated efforts to support overseas American troops have struck a chord with impressed Vietnam veterans. Working on their own time during the school year, eighth-graders Samantha Gugliotta and Samantha Morris ran a neighborhood collection for care packages to send to the troops in Afghanistan. Syosset resident Tom Page became aware of what the students had done – and of East Islip’s ongoing donation program for overseas military personnel – when he saw a cable news story highlighting their efforts. “With kids their age today having so many distractions, including electronics, social activities and a greatly expanded workload in school, it is refreshing to see some who still find the time and make the effort to care about others,” remarked Page. Page not only wrote the girls a thank-you letter, he donated an array of items to send to Afghanistan (from pre-cooked bacon and beef jerky to Gatorade mix and air fresheners) and volunteered to pay for shipping for items that the Samanthas had brought in. Another Vietnam vet, Kevin P. Brooks of Brooklyn, also found out about the two students’ actions and decided to write a letter to them as well. Page and Brooks know better than most how valuable such altruism can be. “I served with the U.S. Marine Corps in Vietnam in 1968,” Page explained. “I know firsthand how much it means to those in harm's way to see and hear that people back home remember them and care about them. Sometimes that touch of home – a certain smell, a taste, a story or something for comfort – is just the right salve for the wounded psyche to enable them to rejoin the fray with real hope of a better tomorrow, maybe a life with lots of tomorrows.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6475 Sun, 15 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT Not content to let anything hold back their creativity, students from Joseph Esposito's fourth-grade class at Connetquot Elementary rewrote the classic story of the Three Little Pigs for their June 11 production in front of the school’s kindergartners. The class read four different versions of the famous story beforehand and ran a contrast and comparison chart. They also watched the Disney cartoon and another cartoon version, and compared those as well. The fourth-graders then brainstormed to decide which elements of the story were necessary to produce their own version. Rather than performing as actors, the Connetquot students used puppets to retell the story. Under the guidance of music teacher Eileen Egbert, they composed lyrics, wrote an original wolf song and sang the Disney classic, "Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf?" The student cast included Joseph Pontillo as the Big Bad Wolf, Eric Berke as Mama Pig, Robert Perniciaro as Straw Pig, Jessy Canessa as Stick/Twig Pig, Raquel Rivera as Brick Pig and Charles Stallone as Nephew to the Wolf. Paraprofessional Patricia Stengel provided the voice of the Owl and constructed the three homes for the pigs. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6476 Sun, 15 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT Ken Cronin was elected as the East Islip Board of Education's new president for 2012-2013 at the Board's July 12 annual reorganization meeting. Cronin, who was East Islip's vice president this past year, was nominated by outgoing President Glenn Reed and sworn in by District Clerk Marie Rogers. Cronin, a retired Nassau County police officer, was first elected to the Board in 2007. He was re-elected as a trustee in 2010 and most recently served as president of the Board during the 2010-2011 school year. Louis F. Raffone was chosen as the Board's vice president, after being sworn in as a trustee following his 2012 re-election to the Board. The reorganization meeting, the first for new trustee Philip Montuori Sr., was followed by a business meeting. The East Islip Board of Education will hold its next regular monthly meeting on the rescheduled date of Tuesday, Aug. 21 at 8 p.m. The meeting will be held in the district office boardroom at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6466 Thu, 12 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip National Honor Society held its annual investiture ceremony on June 11 in the high school auditorium. Along with family and friends, 48 seniors from the Class of 2012 celebrated their permanent membership into this prestigious organization. After welcoming remarks from NHS advisor Lisa Neri and Principal William Brennen, each member selected a mentor to confer the bright blue graduation stoles which signified their status as National Honor Society members. The NHS Class of 2012 were: Jessica Accardi, Kailani Acosta, Siobhan Allmendinger, Kristina Bruzzo, Michael Burgner, Rebecca Carucci, Justine Comiskey (historian), Cynthia Converso, Jessica Dady, Karyn DeFranco, Rachel Domozych, Jonas Elliot, Katie Fabry (treasurer), Alexa Francisco, Kendall Grant (co-president), Kathryn Grell, Andrew Grosse, Jordan Guadugno, Angelia Guercio, Kerin Haft, Emma Hallowell, Dana Henderson, John Hoppe, Dylan Kruger, Rebecca Lee, Dakota Lopez, Jessica Mackey, Kaitlyn Malewicz, Kameron McGrath, Matthew Moore, Kate Moskowitz (co-president), Raymond O'Connor, Nicholas Pandolfo, Kristen Papillo, Gianna Pico, James Reed, Tyler Rigo, Cari Roccaro, Nicole Rudolph, Natalie Salazar, Megan Scharfschwerdt, Serena Scott, Athena Shea, Nicolas Sosa, Matthew Stitt, Colleen Walsh (historian), Christy Wysota and Tina Zicolella. In order to receive recognition as NHS members, these exceptional students maintained high standards in academics, character and leadership. In addition, each member contributed over 40 hours of his or her time to help those in the East Islip community, amounting to almost 2000 hours total for the organization. This year the NHS sponsored or participated in many worthy events during the 2011-2012 school year, benefiting charities that included the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, the New York Special Olympics, the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Lauren's First and Goal. 2011-2012 Board of Education President Glenn Reed attended the event, and remarked, “I am grateful to have shared in the pride of our 2012 NHS members. Congratulations to all!” Photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6467 Thu, 12 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education’s annual reorganization meeting will take place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 12 in the district office boardroom, followed by a regular monthly meeting at 8 p.m. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6434 Sun, 08 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT Edith Clareen Silha, a member of East Islip High School's 26-student Class of 1936, was honored on July 9 for the 75th anniversary of her graduation from the school. Silha, known for her work for the fire department, is a resident of the Momentum at South Bay nursing home in East Islip (formerly Little Flower Nursing Home). Celebrating with Silha and her family and friends were Islip Town Supervisor Tom Croci, two members of the Islip Town Board (Councilman Steven J. Flotteron and Councilwoman Trish Bergin Weichbrodt), East Islip High School guidance director Israel Malinowitzer and Michael Scarione, the administrator of Momentum. "The education you got in 1936 was probably equivalent to a college degree," observed Croci. "It is a great privilege to share this day with someone who served the community for so long." Malinowitzer presented Silha with an honorary diploma to recognize her achievement. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6436 Sun, 08 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT On June 16, the second annual “Grounds for Change” garden was planted at East Islip High School, assisted by volunteers and sponsored by the EJ Autism Foundation, a local organization that works tirelessly for the benefit of special-needs children. “We had a tremendous turnout this year, with adults and children from our community digging and planting with gusto,” said EJ Autism founder Bea Huste-Petersen. Grounds for Change consists of 13 organic garden beds housing a variety of vegetables and herbs donated by the Carmine Verdino & Sons Garden Center of South Ozone Park, N.Y. The garden was planted and is partially maintained by East Islip School District students with disabilities. The children, who attend the district’s summer school program, will water the garden with their teachers every Friday throughout the summer. “It’s a great way for our kids to see growth and progress,” said Huste-Petersen, “and a beautiful opportunity for all of us to grow together. Grounds for Change allows us to celebrate the ability in all of us.” This year’s Ground for Change honoree is Bubba’s Burrito Bar. The popular Islip restaurant will be the recipient of any produce grown in the garden. “Bubba has been an incredible supporter of EJ Autism,” remarked Huste-Petersen. “A sign will be placed in his store stating that the plants were donated by Verdino & Sons and that they were planted and maintained by children diagnosed with autism.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6431 Thu, 05 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT Fifth-grade students at John F. Kennedy Elementary School in East Islip faced an exciting turning point in their educational lives on June 21 as they were honored with a moving-up ceremony, preparing them to attend East Islip Middle School this fall as sixth-graders. In attendance were East Islip’s Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction and Personnel Alise Becker-Santa, Assistant Superintendent for Business Carl Fraser, Assistant to the Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Susan Kosser and Buildings and Board of Education President Glenn Reed. Reed addressed the students and their proud parents, and spoke of the central importance of connections – between family, friends, school and community. “Today we celebrate the connections of your class and teachers,” he said. “Congratulations, parents! Having had three sons go through JFK, I can only say it gets even more exciting.” JFK PTA President Lisa Christy then took the podium. “We want you to have the best of everything so you can be your best selves,” Christy said. She teared up as she noted that her daughter Hannah, who was among the graduating fifth-graders, was her final child to pass through JFK. “My advice is to always seize opportunity and work hard to make the world a better place,” she added. After commenting, “We never say goodbye at JFK,” O’Rourke and the fifth-grade teachers – Danielle Chiappetta, Anne Conte, Lisa Haller, Karen Krawchuk, Teresa Lacy, Michael Marra and Joanne Segreto – handed out student awards. Colin Fitzgerald and Melissa Sconone received Physical Education Student Leadership awards from the Suffolk Zone of New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. The President’s Academic Achievement Award, presented to students who achieve high academic success and all 3’s and 4’s on all New York State assessments, was given to 51 of JFK’s fifth-graders: Olivia Bates, Hanna Benardos, Kelsey Bensen, Stephen Bernhardt, Alexandra Bertolini, Alexa Bishop, Jenna Bosco, Joseph Bucci, Brianna Campson, Christopher Carroll, Nicole Catanzarite, Brandon Cerciello, Brandon Chiacchiaro, Hannah Christy, Ryan Conway, Brendan Cox, Emily DaSilva, Allison Dell'Orto, Colin Fitzgerald, Joseph Fragala, Allison Franzese, Anthony Gamba, Trevor Garnett, Kylie Goess, Jonathan Guadagno, Christina Haig, Brooke Hommel, Andrew Johnson, Joshua Koretz, John LaFrancesca, John Leddy, Jolie Lenox, Anthony Levey, Robert Mastrosimone, Matthew McHugh, Annie McLean, Stephanie Milito, Kendall Mittleman, Jenny Murphy, Nicole O'Connor, Alyssa Orlando, Michael Pagnotta, Brittany Payton, Daniel Peterson, Maggie Ruland, Joan Simonetti, Jamie Smith, Jamie Trapani, Paul Tuma, Kimberly Villano and Alexander Wett. Receiving the Citizenship Award, which recognizes students who inspire and encourage other students to strive to be better citizens, were Alexa Bishop, Jenna Bosco, Christopher Cerrito, Nicholas Conzo, Lauren DeCanio, Colin Fitzgerald, Allison Franzese, Kylie Goess, Isabella Gutierrez, Jolie Lenox and Andrew Nelson. Maggie Ruland was honored with the New York State Controller’s Achievement Award for Academic Excellence and Achievement, for demonstrating leadership potential and a commitment to public service. Two of JFK’s fifth-graders, Annie McLean and Stephanie Milito, were given the New York State Attorney General Triple “C” Award for Character, Courage and Commitment, for exemplifying those three important qualities. The Michael J. Otten Memorial Award, honoring a student who shows perseverance, dignity and commitment, was awarded to Thomas Bergen. Principal O’Rourke presented the students with their moving-up certificates, one class at a time. She then introduced what she termed, “a beautiful song about counting on each other” as the children sang a moving rendition of “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars. At the ceremony’s conclusion, O’Rourke told her departing students, “You are now sixth-graders! Congratulations and enjoy the summer.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6427 Wed, 04 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT Three seniors from East Islip High’s Class of 2012 competed in this year’s Virtual Enterprises International (VEI) Global Business Challenge. VEI selects top students worldwide to participate in the competition and assigns them to small groups. The students are given a Harvard research paper to read and discuss as a group and then decide the outcome of the decision. East Islip’s Anton Hagberg, Kyle Harris and Mike Russo were chosen to represent East Islip’s Virtual Enterprises Business Globalization Career Academy and traveled to Manhattan to meet and work with their group. “This in itself was challenging,” explained Career Academy director Israel Malinowitzer. “The students come from all over the world and are quickly introduced, provided the Harvard paper and then required to work together. The language barrier can be a problem. Nevertheless, the students did have a great time and made new friends from different countries.” After the Global Business Challenge, the trio of seniors shared their experiences with their fellow Virtual Enterprises students back in East Islip. “This was an opportunity of a lifetime to work with other students from around the world,” remarked Anton Hagberg, an East Islip exchange student from Sweden. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6428 Wed, 04 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s 85th commencement ceremony was held on June 23, a beautiful Saturday morning that served as the perfect backdrop for the culmination of the Class of 2012’s high school educations. Preceded by members of the Board of Education and the high school and district administrative staffs, the red-robed graduates-to-be marched into Boomer Esiason Stadium in Islip Terrace to the traditional sounds of Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance,” played by the East Islip High School Orchestra under the direction of Kelly Gelfer and Susan Rydzeski. Principal William Brennen welcomed everyone in attendance, thanking Mother Nature for cooperating in providing the morning’s sunny skies and a welcome cessation of rain. Reid Adler led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a stalwart rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” by Sean Kaiser. Four seniors – Thomas Bauer, Raymond O’Connor, Angela Pizzuto and Rebecca Walter – then sang the school anthem, “East Islip Alma Mater,” in lovely four-part harmony. Brennen began his address on a somber note, referencing the untimely passing of three members of the graduating class: Kimberly Coffey, Amanda Hartley and Joseph Mastrangelo. “To honor them,” he asked, “let us have a moment of silence for dear friends lost too soon.” He reverently added, “I have no magic words of wisdom, but time heals all wounds.” Before introducing the class salutatorian’s address, Brennen concluded, “Today is a celebration, a milestone marking the beginning of your adult lives. To the Class of 2012, always remember your roots and never lose your EI pride!” Salutatorian Angela Pizzuto brought a witty dose of humor to the proceedings, starting with a wry admission that she had spent more time picking out her shoes than writing her speech. “I’m only 17 and don’t pretend to know more than anyone else here,” she explained. A manifesto of sorts – “They say to write what you know, and I know how to complain” – morphed into a comedic list of her least favorite things about the school. Growing serious, Pizzuto told her classmates, “There’s something about an East Islip education that other schools cannot match. Even in the face of hardship and tragedy, this class has handled itself with all the grace and dignity anyone could ever ask for. I wish you luck, happiness and success. Always remember you are unique – like everyone else!” Celebrating their 50th anniversary as East Islip alumni, several dozen members of the Class of 1962 were then introduced and presented with honorary diplomas by Board of Education President Glenn Reed. The widow of the late Sgt. Craig B. Gariepy ’62, who died in the Vietnam War, accepted on his behalf. “Our time has come, EI Class of 2012,” said the school’s valedictorian, Nicholas Pandolfo, in a substantive and motivational address to his fellow seniors. Delving into a poem by 19th century Native American leader Tecumseh, he urged them to reject fear and regret. “Be excited about the future rather than depressed about the past,” he said. “Today is the last time all of us will sit together. We spent the last four years at that building across the street, making memories that are unforgettable.” After acknowledging the support of his family as well as the high school’s administration and faculty, he provided words of inspiration: “Move forward with your future in sight – whether it’s college, the workforce or the armed forces. Become your own hero.” Congratulating his peers, he closed by saying, “As Tecumseh once said, it is now time to live our lives.” “Today we have the privilege of honoring our seniors,” said Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello, who took to the podium next with words of strong praise and astute advice. “You are bright, conscientious, enthusiastic and respectful and are to be commended for your accomplishments,” he told them. “You have served our high school well and made us proud.” He also singled out the students’ parents for admiration, noting, “You set the stage and built the foundation for your children’s success.” After assuring the graduates that there are both “more hard work ahead” and “more dreams to dream,” he offered a path for future success: “I think it is important to find what you love and be passionate about it. As Steve Jobs said, the only way to do great work is to love what you do.” After urging the students to value their civic duties and to strive to be kind and considerate, he wished them luck, saying, “I pray you will find happiness in the path you choose. Wherever it takes you, your school home will always be here for you. Congratulations to the Class of 2012!” Board President Reed then addressed the audience. Humorously relating how often his duties as both a parent and board member have connected him to the school lives and careers of these students, he described not only pride in their achievements, but affirmed their uniqueness. “During this past year I have had the chance to see and enjoy the great accomplishments of so many of our students – the success in the classroom, the concerts, the games, the championships, the notices of acceptance to college and more,” he remarked. “Others have commented that such a journey is not so very remarkable – I disagree. Each of you is unlike any before you or any that will come after you. It may be the collective of us all that make up mankind, but it is, I believe, the individuality of each of us that makes for an interesting and diverse fabric.” Quoting John Donne’s famous 1624 “No man is an island” verses, Reed emphasized connectivity and spoke of this era’s great technological advancements and new forms of social interaction. “The world is changing and you are right in the midst of this change,” he told the seniors. “Even with the challenges you will face in your life, make connections to those people and those things that you love. Connect and stay connected – and in all your connections, cherish, enhance and handle them with reverence and respect. Be a part of the main. Be involved in mankind.” Following Reed’s address, the students were declared graduates by Principal Brennen, and in time-honored tradition, turned their cap tassels from left to right. Following the presentation of diplomas, the day’s final speech came from senior class president Tina Zicolella, who said, “Thirty years from now, what will matter is what you learned and how you used it. Most importantly, don’t let your past keep you from your future.” Principal Brennen then proffered what he called “an old Irish blessing,” telling the seniors, “Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand,” before sending them home as alumni of East Islip High School. Red mortarboard caps flew in the air, and the beaming graduates filed out of the stadium to the triumphant strains of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, ready to celebrate with proud friends and family members. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6423 Mon, 02 Jul 2012 10:00:00 GMT Philip Montuori Sr., the newest member of the East Islip Board of Education, was sworn in to office by District Clerk Marie Rogers on July 3 at the district office. Montuori, who won election on May 15, will attend his first board meeting as a trustee on July 12, when the board gathers for its annual reorganization meeting. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6415 Mon, 02 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School's Senior Class of 2012 Awards and Scholarship Night was held on June 7 in front of a proud audience of administrators, teachers, parents and sponsors. Hosted for the 12th year in a row by Israel Malinowitzer, the school's guidance director, the evening recognized over 80 different awards for the graduating students. After a flag salute courtesy of Sgt. Adam Keeton, Malinowitzer welcomed the audience and began the long, joyful process of introducing the presenters and handing out awards. “These students are to be congratulated for their hard work, team spirit and East Islip pride which will live with them forever," said Malinowitzer. Directing his words to the assembled seniors, he added, "We want you all to remember that East Islip High School is and always will be your home, and we want to hear from all of you as you pursue your careers.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6521 Mon, 02 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Audit Committee will hold a meeting on July 17 at 7:30 p.m. at the district office. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6398 Thu, 28 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Two of East Islip Middle School’s students – eighth-graders Harrison Gieraltowski for Performing Arts and Brianna Maye for Services to People in Need – received Town of Islip Student Achievement Awards, given out on May 17 at the Touro Law Center in Central Islip. Harrison, a skilled clarinetist and guitarist, member of the Tri-M Junior Honor Society, East Islip Middle School Concert Band and Jazz Band, and SCMEA and NYSSMA participant, was nominated by band teacher Concetta Stevens. “I have been Harrison’s music teacher for the past two years and have seen him mature into a sophisticated musician,” said Stevens. He also is active in the community and with the Boy Scouts. “Harrison demonstrates good character on a daily basis and is very deserving of this wonderful honor,” added Stevens. Admired for her empathy and maturity level, Brianna has been involved in East Islip Middle School’s student government since sixth grade and also serves as a member of the Girls Leaders Club. She went above and beyond in organizing and participating in numerous community service projects, from a Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Pennies for Patients fundraiser, SuperSibs card-making party and Birthday Box campaign to the school’s Make-A-Wish movie night benefiting a fellow student. “Brianna’s empathy for others is a trait that I, as a teacher and club advisor, really look for in a student,” remarked teacher Claire Voss, who nominated her for the award. “She selflessly works to ensure that others who are less fortunate or who may be facing a variety of obstacles will receive the help they need. Brianna is truly a wonderful young woman who is compelled to assist those in need regardless of extent, time or circumstances.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6403 Thu, 28 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT A long and outstanding career at East Islip School District has come to an end, presaged by numerous appreciative tributes from colleagues and residents. Robert Tartaglia, the district’s plant and facilities administrator and a local mainstay since the early ‘70s, has retired. A member of the East Islip Class of ’72, his was only the second class to graduate in the current high school building, built in 1970. Tartaglia was also a member of the 1971-72 Suffolk County champion Redmen baseball team. “Those were fun times,” he recalled. “The high school was brand-new and they were still completing construction, which we could see when looking out of the cafeteria windows.” He subsequently attended Suffolk Community College, studying business administration. The circumstances in which he came to work in the East Islip School District were fortuitous. During the summer after graduation, East Islip’s then-superintendent invited Tartaglia and the other members of the varsity baseball team to visit the district office and receive championship plaques. The superintendent asked Tartaglia if he would be interested in part-time summer work, and the young man accepted. He began as part of the custodial cleanup crew at Connetquot Elementary School. At night, he substituted for the full-time custodians. “One thing led to another,” as he explained, and before long, Tartaglia learned about an open position at the district and applied for it. In May of 1974, Robert Tartaglia was hired as a full-time East Islip custodial worker, assisting at the old junior high school on Main Street until it closed in 1979 and was sold to Licari Associates. When the head custodian at Connetquot retired in 1980, Tartaglia applied for that position, which he held until June 1986. He then served as the district’s assistant plant and facilities administrator from July 1986 through Sept. 1997, when he took over the top job from his retiring predecessor and mentor, Bill Zukowsky. Tartaglia’s tenure at the district has been both eventful and productive, spanning three bond issues and approximately nine superintendents. His numerous accomplishments include infrastructure improvements, adding square footage to the high school, classroom additions in the elementary schools, major upgrades to athletic facilities and the installation of new window systems and roofs district-wide. He cites energy efficiency as one of the hallmark issues of his career, having overseen the adoption of energy-efficient motors, burners, boilers and fluorescent lighting as well as the replacement of all classroom ventilation systems with newer models with higher-efficiency controls. In a career this long, he has observed a lot of change. “The most radical difference I’ve seen is in regulations,” he remarked. “The list of New York State mandates keeps getting bigger and bigger, putting roadblocks in the way.” Tartaglia has been married to his wife, Carolee, since 1979. The couple have two sons, Michael and Robert. Tartaglia has not yet decided what comes next. “I am retiring – retiring from East Islip – but keeping options open,” he explained. “My decision to leave was predicated on my current medical condition.” Tartaglia has recently suffered from myasthenia gravis, affecting his eyes. “If my condition gets better,” he said,” “I will look to do something else.” Tartaglia’s exemplary career in East Islip was recognized at several Board of Education meetings since he announced his impending retirement back in February, as well as at the For the Kids Foundation’s annual Golf Outing & After Party in Sayville on June 18. He was also honored with a special retirement party dinner, held on May 31 at the Irish Coffee Pub in East Islip. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6395 Wed, 27 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Two sets of kindergartners and third-graders at Connetquot Elementary School teamed up to show their international prowess and entertain their parents with a Mexican-themed, Spanish-language version of “The Little Red Hen” (“La Gallina Pequeña Roja”), written and directed by the school’s music teacher Eileen Egbert. Wendy Frees’ third-grade class performed with Moira Timmer’s kindergartners on May 31; the following day featured Carolyn Biscardi and Maria Marinelli’s third-graders teaming up with Nicole Hoffmann’s kindergarten class. “This was a great introduction to the stage for our kindergartners, and an opportunity for the third-graders to be buddies,” said Egbert. The play was developed by Egbert to enhance the third-grade students’ recent classroom studies on Mexican culture, food and geography, including a segment where art teacher Elizabeth Sullivan had the students make Day of the Dead masks and dolls. Describing a humorous moment in the play where the kindergartners had a chance to dance and sing with the older students, Egbert remarked, “Since we are very conscious of good health, the Little Red Hen took her ‘chicks’ into the courtyard for ‘morning exercises’ – in other words, the ‘Chicken Dance.’ Those kindergartners danced their feathers off!” Other performances in Connetquot’s “Little Red Hen” included a Spanish rendition of “Frère Jacques” and a counting of the chicks in both Spanish and English to the tune of “Ten Little Indians.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6396 Wed, 27 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School boys varsity golf tryouts will be held from Aug. 27-29 at 11 a.m. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6379 Tue, 26 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School's fun-filled, celebratory 2012 Senior Prom was held on June 21 at the Hilton Long Island/Huntington hotel in Melville. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6383 Tue, 26 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education will hold a special board meeting, open to the public, on Friday, June 29 at 10 a.m. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6363 Mon, 25 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Bringing East Islip’s splendid series of concerts to a triumphant close, student-musicians from Timber Point Elementary participated in the school’s June 4 spring concert held at the East Islip High School auditorium. After introductions from East Islip Music Director Stephen Guarino and Timber Point Principal Lisa Belz, who thanked the community for their support and attendance, the school’s beginner strings led off the event. Directed by Jaime DeMaria, the young musicians tackled “D Scale” and the American classics “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” and “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star,” concluding with an ambitious version of “Ode to Joy” from Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. The 49-member Timber Point Advanced Orchestra, directed by DeMaria and accompanied by Patricia DeRosa Padden, followed with rousing renditions of compositions by Robert Gillespie (“Mountain Climbing”), Elliot Del Borgo (“Clog Dance”) and Rob Grice (“Dragon Slayer”). Percussionists Justin Lamando, Dylan Lopez and A.J. Rumfola were highlighted on the latter tune. Next up were the beginner and advanced bands, both directed by Lynda Maniscalco. The beginners performed English folk song “London Bridge” and Haydn’s “Surprise” Symphony before offering another interpretation of “Ode to Joy.” The crowd was impressed by the dramatic program presented by the 42-member advanced band. John O’Reilly’s “March for Megan” was followed by a medley of two themes from the Harry Potter films and a buoyant rendition of Bill Conti’s “Gonna Fly Now (Theme from Rocky).” Singing under DeRosa Padden’s energetic direction, the Timber Point Chorus brought the evening to a close. Featured soloists included Lindsay Guzzetta, Courtney Morena and Kerri Smith, while Loriann Capra and Thomas Locke provided scat singing. After performances of Jonathan Larson’s “Seasons of Love” (from “Rent”) and Journey’s perennial rocker “Don’t Stop Believin’,” the ensemble pulled out all the stops for their final number. The chorus’ winsome version of Lionel Hampton’s 1946 jazz standard “Hey! Ba-Ba-Re-Bop” featured onstage costumed dancers (Shannon Hubany, Natalia Lozinski, Julianna Spina and Katelyn Spina), members of the Timber Point Advanced Band (Maniscalco, Steven Gieseler and Zachary MacMorris on trombone and Justin Lamando and John Sidorski on trumpet) and four additional guest musicians (flutist Nicole DeRosa Padden, saxophonist Pat A. DeRosa, guitarist James Santoro and drummer Alfred J. Woods). http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6340 Sun, 24 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School’s annual Backyard Bash provided the school’s graduating eighth-graders the chance to celebrate and have fun in the sun before they prepare to enter East Islip High School this fall as freshmen. Held in back of the school on June 18 following the students’ last test of the morning, the Bash featured a barbecue, pumping DJ music and dancing as well as a huge assortment of inflatable rides and party games provided by NY Party Works. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6346 Sun, 24 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Youngsters in East Islip High School’s Toddler High program celebrated graduation day on May 31. Many of these excited diploma recipients will attend kindergarten in the East Islip School District this fall. The long-running Toddler High program pairs local children aged 3-5 with juniors and seniors from the high school, meeting three times a week for two hours to do arts and crafts, read together, work on numbers and play with puppets and game boards. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6352 Sun, 24 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Telephones at the East Islip District Office, East Islip High School and East Islip Middle School are out of service due to storm damage. Other district buildings can receive incoming calls only. Repairs will be made as quickly as possible. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6353 Sun, 24 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Due to current weather conditions, tonight’s East Islip High School graduation ceremony has been postponed until 10:30 a.m. tomorrow morning (Saturday, June 23). The ceremony will take place rain or shine. If tomorrow's weather is not favorable or school officials do not have adequate time to prepare the field for an outdoor ceremony, graduating students will be contacted by 8:30 a.m., informing them of an indoor ceremony. In any case, students must report to their assigned rooms by 9:45 a.m. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6317 Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Due to the change of day and time for East Islip High School's graduation ceremonies, all orchestra students are expected to report to the high school orchestra room at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 23. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6320 Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the East Islip High School Class of 2012! The new graduates were honored on a beautiful Saturday morning at the school's June 23 commencement exercises, held at Boomer Esiason Stadium. Please visit this site next week for in-depth coverage of the event, including dozens and dozens of photographs as well as a complete list of graduates. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6323 Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT On June 19, the East Islip School District's 2012-13 school budget revote passed the second time around with a 56.5 percent majority voting to approve. District Clerk Marie Rogers announced the results shortly before 9:30 p.m. to an assembled audience of school board members, district administrators, parents and residents. “After a long and difficult process, I am pleased that – with the highest number of yes votes cast in the past five years – the budget has passed,” remarked East Islip Board of Education President Glenn Reed. “The road ahead remains difficult and long, but we have come so far as a community that I am confident we can continue working together to build a sustainable future for our students, our employees and our residents.” The overall district voting numbers for the revote were 3,355 yes, 2,579 no. The total number of voters was 5,934 (up from the 5,617 total voters for the first failed vote on May 15). As this second budget was under the New York State-imposed 3.23 percent tax levy cap, it required only a simple majority (50 percent plus one) to pass. A total of 1,347 voted at Connetquot Elementary School in Islip Terrace, with 54.3 percent approving (732 yes votes, 615 no votes). John F. Kennedy Elementary School in East Islip had 1,769 voters, also with 54.3 percent approving (960 yes, 809 no). There were 1,301 voters at Ruth C. Kinney Elementary School in Islip Terrace, with 59.4 percent approving (773 yes, 528 no). Timber Point Elementary School in East Islip had 1,517 voters, with 58.7 percent approving (890 yes, 627 no). Retooled from the earlier $107.6 million budget, this approved $105.8 million budget reflects a 2.99 percent tax levy increase and includes such vital elements such as full-day kindergarten, a nine-period day at the high school and middle school, full varsity and JV sports and almost the entire award-winning music program. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6270 Tue, 19 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT Students in Melissa Love’s second-grade class at Connetquot Elementary took a field trip to neighboring Ruth C. Kinney Elementary on June 19 to meet their pen pals from Jennifer Beebe and Dennis Clancy’s second-grade class. Students in the two East Islip schools have been pen pals all year, writing letters back and forth and practicing friendly letter-writing skills. The two groups of second-graders finally met up to talk, play board games and enjoy ice pops. “It was a great experience for all of the children,” said Love. “New friendships were formed and the students really enjoyed meeting each other.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6273 Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education will hold held a a special board meeting tonight, June 19, to announce the budget revote results. The meeting will take place at 9 p.m. in the district office boardroom. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6255 Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The first East Islip High School football practice of the 2012-2013 season (for both varsity and JV) will take place on Aug. 16. Varsity weight-room training has started already and will continue (Monday-Thursday, 3 p.m-6 p.m.) until the first practice. JV football conditioning in the high school weight room starts on July 16, also from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6266 Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT On June 5, students and instructors from the East Islip High School Career Academy program held a summit with members of the local business community to show the impact of their work during the 2011-2012 school year. Led by Career Academy director Israel Malinowitzer, they also introduced the business community to East Islip’s new medical academy concept. The third of the school’s highly successful career-oriented programs (after the Environment Green and Global Business Career Academies), the Medical and Health Technology Career Academy starts in September and has already proven popular with ambitious members of the Class of 2013 who have signed on to participate. “Some exciting things are happening in very creative and groundbreaking ways at EI,” remarked Board of Education President Glenn Reed. “The Career Academy is making things happen.” Photos by Glenn Reed. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6260 Mon, 18 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Connetquot Elementary School was overrun by pasta gone wild on May 31 when students from Danielle Eskedal’s class starred in the Italian-themed musical “Strega Nona.” Adding to the musical revelry were the talents of kindergartners from Elizabeth McInerney’s class. “Strega Nona,” adapted by Connetquot music teacher Eileen Egbert from the 1975 children’s book by Tomie dePaola, tells the story of a grandmother witch with a magic pasta pot. The pot makes pasta when Strega Nona sings to it (dramatized by a kindergarten student inside the stage pot, throwing pool noodles into the audience), and humorous troubles ensue when her helper Big Anthony, who sleeps in the goat shed, tries to use the magic pasta pot while Strega Nona’s not around. Eskedal’s students studied Italy as part of their social studies curriculum, and experienced the true flavor of that country through their performance of this classic folk tale. The children learned not only about Italian geography and culture but how to dance the tarantella (including lifting a seated “grandpa” in the center of the circle). They sang two songs in Italian (“Farfalina” and “Ma Bella Bimba”) and smiled their way through “On Top of Spaghetti.” An unexpected animal appearance stole the show. “To add to the fun, one of the third-grade parents, Mrs. Barra, loaned us her goat named Star – yes, a real live goat – to take the stage,” remarked Egbert. “Star was led onstage by Mrs. Eskedal, who announced, ‘Big Anthony, I cleaned out the goat shed for you!’ as I played ‘The Lonely Goatherd’ from ‘The Sound of Music.’” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6246 Sun, 17 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip PTA Council's Fifth Grade Mixer, originally scheduled to held today from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at East Islip Middle School, has been moved to the district office building (the former ECC), due to Regents exams being held at the middle school. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6217 Fri, 15 Jun 2012 08:00:00 GMT Please note the following statement from John J. Finello, superintendent of East Islip School District: We have been informed by the Suffolk County Department of Health that an East Islip High School student passed away on June 15 from symptoms related to meningococcal disease. The East Islip Board of Education, administration and entire school district community are truly saddened to learn of this tragic loss and we extend our deepest and most sincere condolences to the student's family and friends during this very difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with them. Beginning on Monday, June 18, the district will offer grief counselors and support services to both students and staff as needed to cope with this devastating loss. End-of-year exams will continue to proceed as scheduled. The safety and well-being of all students is our first priority. The district is working very closely with the Suffolk County Health Department, and we are following its lead on communicating all relevant and necessary information to family, classmates, and staff. We have been informed by public health officials that the incubation period for those who may have had close contact with this student has passed. It is safe for students to be in school for exams. Suffolk County Department of Health letter http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6221 Fri, 15 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School’s student-musicians proved the strength of their talents and the outstanding proficiency instilled by the district’s music program with two marvelous spring concerts, held back-to-back on May 30 and 31 in the high school’s auditorium. Introductions from Principal Mark Bernard and East Islip Director of Music Stephen Guarino kicked off Concert I on May 30, leading into a strong performance by the East Islip Middle School 7/8 Band. Directed by Concetta Stevens, the ensemble played Richard Saucedo’s “American Barndance,” Brian Balmages’ multi-part “Elements (Petite Symphony)” and “Michael Jackson: Through the Years,” a fun medley of Jackson favorites (“I Want You Back,” “I’ll Be There,” “Rock with You,” “Thriller” and “Man in the Mirror”) arranged by Michael Brown and featuring saxophone soloist Frank Pepe. The band ended with a rendition of John Philip Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever.” Led by directors Patricia Bryan and Lisa Ashkenazy and accompanied by Jeremy Barbaro, the concert choir turn was next, singing “Corner of the Sky” by Stephen Schwartz (from “Pippin”), traditional spiritual “Rock-A My Soul,” Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie’s beatific “We Are the World” (with soloists Paul DeMasi and Megan Tohill) and Schwartz’s classic title tune to the musical “Godspell” (with soloists Chris Abbatepaulo, Catherine Graber and Noelia Vazquez). The choir and soloists Matt Alessi and Danielle Pafundi closed with two pieces celebrating the music of ‘70s rock titans Queen: “A Tribute to Queen” arranged by Marc Brymer and a version of the 1976 classic “Somebody to Love” arranged by Adam Anders and Tim Davis (“Glee”) . The first concert came to an end with the East Islip Middle School 7/8 Orchestra, directed by Judith Fischer, performing four epic numbers: Mozart’s Overture to “Lucio Silla,” Klaus Badelt’s theme to the film “Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl” (featuring a cello solo by Karli Pipitone), Howard Shore’s “Jacob’s Theme” from the film “The Twilight Saga: Eclipse” (with Juliana Cialdella on solo violin) and themes from Antonin Dvorak’s “New World Symphony.” At Spring Concert II one night later, the program of musical excellence continued. Directed by Christopher Robertson, the East Islip Middle School Sixth-Grade Band began strong with Jay Chattaway’s “Northwest Overture” before tackling John Kinyon’s “Episode for Band,” Michael Sweeney’s “Pantheon” and Henry Fillmore’s “Men of Ohio.” After telling the assembled parents, “Your kids are a joy to teach,” Ashkenazy and her sixth-grade chorus (accompanied again by Barbero) dove into a program of compositions by classic American composers. A traditional spiritual, “Joshua (Fit the Battle of Jericho)” was first, followed by a happy rendition of Paul Simon’s “The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin’ Groovy),” Irving Berlin’s “Count Your Blessings (Instead of Sheep)” from “White Christmas” (with soloist Sara Rapuzzi) and the Kirby Shaw-arranged “What’d I Say (A Tribute to Ray Charles).” Director Jacqueline Collins then led the sixth-grade orchestra onto the stage, offering a vivid performance of Richard Wagner’s “March of the Meistersingers,” Elliot del Borgo’s “Concertino in G,” Mark Williams’ “Fiddle Finger Frenzy,” Mozart’s “Contredanse en Rondeau” and Richard Meyer’s “Joust.” The final place in the concert series was taken by the school’s girls chorus, directed by Bryan and accompanied by Barbaro. After exhorting the audience with “Rejoice and Sing!” (an African-American spiritual), the chorus and soloist Sabrina Firneno sang “Someone Like You” by Adele Adkins and Dan Wilson. Penultimate number “Over the Sea to Skye,” a traditional Scottish song, brought a Celtic flavor to the proceedings. The Middle School Spring Concert finale, sung with soloist Kendra Canavan, was a lovely rendition of the Amanda McBroom song “The Rose,” made famous by Bette Midler. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6220 Thu, 14 Jun 2012 13:00:00 GMT At this month’s regular monthly East Islip Board of Education meeting, the board recognized the outstanding achievements of two groups of students, one a precocious class of recycling wizards, the other a determined team of softballers. The Timber Point Elementary fifth-grade class – known as the “Recyclinators” – of Jennifer Giordano were honored for a plethora of achievements, including their victory in the New York State 2012 Disney Planet Challenge, the ensuing recognition in the Congressional Record of the U.S. House of Representatives by Rep. Steve Israel, and the students’ successful drive to raise money for future district recycling programs. Several Recyclinators took to the podium to take turns reading the statement in the Congressional Record, while Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello lauded the fifth-graders and remarked, “Thank you for teaching us to be better recyclers.” Next up was the East Islip High School 2011-2012 softball squad, winners of the Class AA Suffolk County championship. Athletic Director Stephen Restivo introduced eight members of the team in attendance, head coach Jason McGowan and assistant coach Brittany DeVries. “What a fine job they did,” Restivo said, regaling the audience with details of the team’s playoff accomplishments. “It was a pleasure watching them practice, play and work hard.” The evening’s personnel reports included the appointing of tenure to East Islip High School Principal William Brennen and Assistant Principal Christian Seifert. Also achieving tenure were four teachers (foreign language teacher Patricia Childs of East Islip Middle School, special education teacher Stephanie Clahane of East Islip High School, RCK physical education teacher Bonnie Rabin and RCK special education teacher Barbara Whelan) and two teaching assistants (Donna Luby of Connetquot and Margaret Potter of East Islip High School). In other personnel matters, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction and Personnel Alise Becker-Santa introduced incoming Plant & Facilities Administrator Eric Woellhof, formerly of the East Hampton School District. Woellhof will be replacing Robert Tartaglia, who is retiring after 38 years. Becker-Santa welcomed Woellhof, and addressing Tartaglia, remarked, “Bob, we wish you a wonderful retirement and thank you for your years of service.” In new business, Board President Glenn Reed noted several board policy changes, including budget policies relating to New York State’s tax levy cap, the abolishment of the Values Education policy in favor of the new Citizenship Education policy, and the formal adoption of the state’s Dignity for All Students Act, which was read aloud by Reed. The latter mandate becomes effective July 1. At the meeting’s close, both Tartaglia and outgoing board trustee Joseph G. Sargent were honored with gifts, thanking them for their diligent work on behalf of the district. A special board meeting to announce the budget revote results will be held in the district office boardroom on June 19 at 9 p.m. The Board of Education’s annual reorganization meeting will take place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 12 in the district office boardroom. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6218 Thu, 14 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Capping off her illustrious high school career as East Islip’s girls soccer phenomenon, senior Cari Roccaro recently received a trophy and banner commemorating her being named the 2011-2012 Gatorade New York Girls Soccer Player of the Year. She is the first player from East Islip High School to be so honored. Presented by the Gatorade Company in collaboration with ESPNHS, this award recognizes outstanding athletic excellence along with high standards of academic achievement and exemplary character demonstrated on and off the field. Roccaro amply demonstrated all of these qualities during last fall’s season, where the 5-foot-7 forward/midfielder led the Lady Redmen to an 11-3-1 record. She was named a First Team ESPNHS All-American, two-time National Soccer Coaches Association of America All-American, and Long Island Player of the Year, was a member of the school’s National Honor Society and volunteered for a local soccer program for autistic children. While many students relax over the summer, Roccaro has little chance of slowing down, with a schedule as busy as it is prestigious. On June 10, she left for a 10-day trip to Japan, preparing for her participation in the soccer World Cup. The day after she returns, Roccaro starts 10 days of preseason training at Notre Dame University, where she will play on full scholarship starting this September. Then it’s back to Japan on August 9 or 10 to play in the World Cup. Depending on how the U.S. team performs, Roccaro might miss the first two weeks of the fall season at Notre Dame. “Playing in the World Cup is exciting, but I’m a little nervous,” she said. “I’ll need help from my tutors and teammates.” Her current principal, East Islip High’s William Brennen, has no doubt she can handle the pressure, citing her ability to keep up scholastically despite her extracurricular sports schedule. “She missed so many periods of high school, yet maintained a high GPA while being a world-class athlete,” Brennen remarked. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6189 Wed, 13 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Middle School Tri-M Brass Ensemble showed their patriotism on May 28 by performing at the Islip Terrace Fire Department’s Memorial Day service. Student-musicians Jack Bonner, Jack Burke-McGoldrick, Joseph Corrao, Jack Donovan, Kurt Eide, Joseph Guarnieri, Richard Hughes, Kevin Jacobsen, Jake MacMorris, Evan Mauner, Dennis McCann and Michael Stevens woke up early on their day off to visit the firehouse and play a stirring Armed Forces medley in tribute to local veterans. “It was a touching and very important ceremony, one that the boys truly enjoyed and felt honored to participate in,” said their music teacher, Concetta Stevens. “I was so proud of my students for their incredible playing and the dedication that they all have demonstrated.” Later on that day, Guarnieri and Jacobsen played taps at the East Islip Public Library’s 9/11 service. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6190 Wed, 13 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT On May 22, students and parents at Connetquot Elementary School were treated to a bold performance of the musical “Australia Down Under.” Directed by teacher Eileen Egbert, the show was a tuneful travelogue through the history, culture and geography of Australia, featuring such traditional favorites as “Waltzing Matilda” and “Kookaburra.” The young student performers from Kathleen Rayola’s class dressed for the occasion in traditional Australian garb as well as costumes of indigenous animals like crocodiles and birds, helping to illustrate the stories told in the songs. The group even tried their hand at playing the didgeridoo, an authentic Aboriginal Australian instrument. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6175 Tue, 12 Jun 2012 12:00:00 GMT Two new television monitors were installed in the East Islip High School’s main lobby on June 6, marking the first phase of the school’s expansion of its audiovisual systems. The project was completed at no cost to the East Islip School District, thanks to a generous donation by the For the Kids Foundation (FTK), a local organization dedicated to improving the educational experience of East Islip’s students. FTK representatives visited the high school on June 14 for a demonstration of the upgraded technology. The two additional lobby monitors were tied into the audiovisual system already installed in the cafeteria, and the system’s control capabilities were extended to the principal’s office. This will allow the school to stream live video, broadcast recorded student activities and display student photos. “We believe that this project will have a tremendous impact on the tone and environment of the school,” remarked Principal William Brennen. “Visitors and students that enter our school will be able to view images and videos of positive student behavior. Our hope is that students will strive to get their picture up on the monitors by participating in positive school activities.” In order to complete the project, special wires needed to be run from the principal’s office to the main lobby and cafeteria. Using wiring already available to the district, Assistant Plant and Facilities Administrator John Rotzman convinced one of the district’s vendors to donate their time to install the wire. This new video system is expandable, and East Islip High School intends to eventually install additional monitors in the school’s gymnasium lobby and to broadcast live via the internet into all classrooms. This week’s FTK-funded installation is the first step in accomplishing that goal. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6171 Tue, 12 Jun 2012 11:00:00 GMT East Islip High School's 2012 graduation rehearsal will be held on Wednesday, June 20 at 11:30 a.m. Members of the Class of 2012 must report to the high school promptly at 11:30 a.m. Any seniors that do not attend this rehearsal will not be permitted to participate in the school's June 22 graduation exercises. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6172 Tue, 12 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education held a brief budget hearing on May 12 in the district office boardroom, reviewing summaries of budget information. Prior to opening the floor to comments and questions from the community, Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello and Assistant Superintendent for Business Carl Fraser provided a quick recap of the 2012-13 adopted budget for revote. Copies of the Six-Day Budget Notice for Revote and Budget 2012 Revote newsletter were provided to those in attendance. The next regular monthly Board of Education meeting will take place at 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 14 in the district office boardroom. A special board meeting to announce the budget revote results will be held on June 19 at 9 p.m., also at the district office boardroom. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6165 Tue, 12 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students at John F. Kennedy Elementary School in East Islip were entertained by a June 13 production of "Charlotte's Web," performed by a local theater company. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6167 Tue, 12 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The audience was warmed up and ready to be entertained as a student host stepped in front of the cameras in East Islip High School’s television studio. The television lights were blazing, the microphones were live and the script scrolling on the teleprompter. The atmosphere in the studio was electric as teacher James Connell’s broadcast television and video production classes began the day’s program, titled “The Embers Coffee House – A Daytime Variety Show.” Led by producers Brendan Bullard and Dave Tekverk and aided by technicians Hunter Canavan, John Randazzo and Takan Tarkil, the students produced over a dozen show segments for “The Embers Coffee House.” Each featured performances by their talented high school classmates, including Tom Bauer, John Callagy, Rose Labrys, Jacob Levesque and Brandon Missig. “It was an exciting and intense experience for the students to produce and direct all elements of a live show,” said Connell. “Managing the lighting, sound, set, cameras and talent provided them with a professional challenge. The student hosts and announcers gave excellent performances, and student producers, directors, audio operators and crew captured great video and sound for the event, which was very efficiently run. My students had a great time producing the show for their fellow classmates.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6159 Mon, 11 Jun 2012 10:00:00 GMT For the 14th year in a row, students from Connetquot Elementary School’s chorus performed the national anthem at a Long Island Ducks baseball game at Bethpage Ballpark in Central Islip. The enthusiastic crowd at the June 6 contest against the Bridgeport Bluefish was amazed at the clarity of the students’ enunciation and the overall professionalism of the ensemble, directed by teacher Eileen Egbert, and Connetquot’s students have been invited back to sing again next season. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6160 Mon, 11 Jun 2012 08:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for June 11, 2012: Fifth-graders Kenny Ahlers, Tommy Ahlers, Louis Akl, Jacqueline Baldino, Anthony Conigliaro, Zion Esquilin, Emily Mahony, Heather McNamara, Michael Vito Perrone, Camryn Sparacio, Derick Veliz and Victor Ventuzelo of Connetquot Elementary Kindergartner John Vogel of John F. Kennedy Elementary Second-grader Tatum Kenney and Michael Schmidt of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6144 Mon, 11 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District received a request from the Suffolk County Department of Health Services (DOH) to alert the school community to a confirmed case of pertussis (whooping cough) at Timber Point Elementary School. Please read the pertinent letter from Dr. Dennis Russo of the Suffolk DOH, and contact your health care provider should you observe any of the symptoms described. For further information on this illness, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's pertussis page. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6147 Mon, 11 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The EJ Autism Foundation will be hosting its second annual Grounds for Change event at East Islip High School on Saturday, June 16 beginning at 11 a.m. Sponsored by Bubba's Burrito Bar, Grounds for Change provides the East Islip School District's special-needs students with the opportunity to learn by planting a vegetable and herb garden. Flyer http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6151 Mon, 11 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Third-graders in Jerry Orlando’s classroom at Ruth C. Kinney Elementary School recently participated in the AMVETS National Americanism Poster Contest, co-sponsored by AMVETS – one of the foremost veterans service and advocacy organizations in the U.S. – and the AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary. The students' objective was to create 9 inch by 12 inch posters which addressed the theme, "I Am Proud to Be an American Because..." The project also required them to include descriptions of their posters in 50 words or less. For the Town of Islip, all three top entries came from Orlando's class. Emily Gargano was the first-place winner, with her poster also chosen to compete at the New York State level. Anthony Attanasio’s poster won second place, and Brandon Palomba came in third. On June 7, two representatives from East Islip AMVETS Post 18 – Americanism chairman John Rossetti and Americanism chairlady Nina Cooley – visited RCK to present awards and certificates to Gargano, Attanasio and Palomba. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6135 Sun, 10 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT If winning the New York State 2012 Disney Planet Challenge wasn’t enough of an honor, Jennifer Giordano's fifth-grade “Recyclinators” class at Timber Point Elementary were recognized in the U.S. House of Representatives. On May 30, Rep. Steve Israel entered the class into the Congressional Record for their environmental achievements; they placed fifth overall in the entire nation. The congressman sent a bound copy of the record to each member of the class: Zaina Abdelbaky, Brittney Amaru, Nicolette Banville, Charlie Curran, Kyle DeLisi, Nickolas Dimitriou, Ryan Engblom, Lauren Florenz, Steven Geisler, Nicole Graziano, Tom Hazell, Shannon Hubany, Dylan Lopez, Natalia Lozinski, Owen Meddis, Matthew Pinz, Julia Ryan, Kerri Smith, Katelyn Spina, Natalie Stergakos, Ryann Tracy and Cassidy Triolo. In his statement, Rep. Israel said, “I am honored to have this school, Jennifer Giordano and all these students in the 2nd Congressional District of New York… Ms. Giordano's class at Timber Point Elementary School embodies the spirit of thinking globally while acting locally… These fifth graders have successfully made their community more aware of how their habits impact our environment. Their hard work shows that when we all work together to do our part, we can make a big difference. I commend these students for their dedication to their community and our planet. I would also like to honor their teacher, Jennifer Giordano, and their parents for instilling in these children the importance of protecting our environment for future generations.” A bill drafted by Rep. Israel with the help of Giordano’s class, requiring anyone selling alkaline batteries to collect them back, is currently being presented in the House. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6142 Sun, 10 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education will hold a Budget Hearing on Tuesday, June 12 at 7 p.m. in the first-floor cafeteria of the District Office, during which the public can ask questions and make comments. The Board will further hold its regular monthly meeting on Thursday, June 14 at 8 p.m. in the District Office boardroom. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6064 Sun, 10 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The dedication and depth of East Islip’s vaunted music program, overseen by its director, Stephen Guarino, were on maximum display during East Islip High School’s two spectacular spring concerts. Both events were held at the school’s auditorium during the month of May, wowing parents, friends and staff with the immense musical talent demonstrated by East Islip’s award-winning student-musicians. Principal William Brennen was on hand to introduce the first concert on May 17. After thanking the students and their teachers for their hard work and dedication, and the audience for their attendance, he turned the stage over to the young musicians of East Islip. “You don’t want to hear me, you want to hear your kids,” joked Brennen, before the curtains rose. Directed by Christopher Neske, the East Islip High School Concert Band took the stage and launched into a vibrant version of the “Jupiter” movement of Gustav Holst’s “The Planets.” Next was the “Star Wars Trilogy” – three tunes from John Williams’ score to the famous space adventure film, from the ominous “Imperial March” and lush “Princess Leia’s Theme” to the familiar fanfare of the main theme. Neske acknowledged the band’s graduating seniors before leading into their final number, a jaunty rendition of John Philip Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever.” The concert choir was up next, led by director Bethany Affelt and accompanied by Christopher McKee. Special guest James Burke on bagpipes brought a true Scottish flair to their opening number, the medley “Ower the Hills.” The choir also tackled the Beatles’ classic “Can’t Buy Me Love,” John Leavitt’s arrangement of “Kyrie” and a rambunctious bass-and-drum-powered version of Shakira’s “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” the official theme of the 2010 soccer World Cup. The women’s choir, also directed by Affelt, began their portion of the show with a Renaissance flavor, singing Pierre Certon’s 16th-century “Je Le Vous Dirai! (Do Not Dare I Say It).” After a haunting version of beloved Irish ballad “Danny Boy,” the girls performed “Leading Ladies – Songs That Stopped the Show,” a fun medley of five songs from female-centered Broadway musicals: “Wicked” (from “Popular”), “Don't Cry for Me, Argentina” (“Evita"), “Don't Rain on My Parade” (“Funny Girl”), “Adelaide's Lament” (“Guys and Dolls”) and the title tune of “The Sound of Music.” The East Islip High School String Orchestra ended Spring Concert I, dedicating the performance to the memory of the late Amanda Hartley, a former East Islip student and cellist. After Bach’s Sinfonia in D Major and the traditional folk number “Poor Wayfaring Stranger,” the student-musicians all donned colorful masks and feathers to play a mix of Lady Gaga hits arranged for strings. This medley melded the classic and the modern in a way that brought a touch of witty fun to the proceedings and greatly entertained the audience. For the grand finale, members of the concert band joined the string orchestra for an epic performance of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture,” replete with a climactic explosion of celebratory confetti. East Islip’s sonic splendors continued at Spring Concert II, held on May 22. Neske’s wind ensemble started this second show with renditions of Leonard Bernstein’s “Slava! (A Political Overture for Orchestra),” Percy Grainger’s Australian favorite “Colonial Song” and David Maslanka’s “Give Us This Day.” The honors choir, directed by Affelt and accompanied by McKee, sang a remarkably diverse set of material: traditional gospel/blues song “John the Revelator,” “The Stars Stand Up in the Air” (by Eric William Barnum and Thomas MacDonaugh), Pierre Passereau’s chanson “Il Est Bel et Bon,” Paul Simon’s elegiac “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and the electrifying “Jai Ho!” (from “Slumdog Millionaire”). The final section of the concert belonged to the East Islip High School Honors Symphony Orchestra, directed by Susan Rydzeski. They began by performing Vivaldi’s “Allegro” from his Concerto in G Minor, featuring cello soloists Karyn DeFranco and William Meehan. The evening ended with their powerful renditions of Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s orchestration of Modest Mussorgsky’s “Night on Bald Mountain” and John Williams’ “The Cowboys Overture.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6119 Thu, 07 Jun 2012 11:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School’s new valedictorian, Nicholas Pandolfo, was honored on June 7 when the Suffolk County School Superintendents Association (SCSSA) hosted its 18th annual Valedictorians Luncheon at the Hyatt Regency Wind Watch Hotel in Hauppauge. Pandolfo, of Islip Terrace, finished the year with a weighted GPA of 107.43. He was a member of the high school’s National Honor Society, Science Honor Society and varsity lacrosse team, and served as vice president of the Boys Leaders Club. Along with Suffolk County’s other outstanding valedictorians, Pandolfo was recognized for being the top Class of 2012 student in his school, and for his strong commitment to academics,. He received a certificate of recognition from SCSSA President Alan B. Groveman and East Islip Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello, as well as a key ring flash drive as a congratulatory gift from the SCSSA. He was accompanied to the luncheon by his parents, teacher Paul McHugh (chosen by Pandolfo as the most influential during his high school years), East Islip Principal William Brennen, Superintendent Finello and Board of Education President Glenn Reed. “We were grateful for the chance to honor East Islip's valedictorian Nick Pandalfo,” said Reed. “The luncheon was an honor for us to attend and be a part of.” Pandolfo will begin business studies this fall at the prestigious University of Virginia (UVA) in Charlottesville. The only university in the United States to be designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, UVA was established in 1819 and designed by U.S. President Thomas Jefferson. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6107 Thu, 07 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Middle school students from Harold Kench’s technology classes were invited to a special viewing of the May 31 installation of the East Islip High School courtyard’s new solar panels. The displayed panels will be used to teach students about the solar energy that is produced throughout the day. Students can monitor the system and produce data analysis showing the increase and decrease of energy at different times of the day. This solar panel system was donated to East Islip by Direct Grid Corporation and installed by Solar Dad and Sons. Representatives from these companies – Louis Squeo of Direct Grid and Ken Sanger of Solar Dad – were in attendance at the viewing to speak to the middle school’s students and explain how solar panels work. “We are very thankful for this wonderful donation by Direct Grid and the partnership with all of the other companies that have offered the services or supplies necessary to put this solar panel system in the courtyard,” said East Islip High School Guidance Director Israel Malinowitzer. “The middle school students had a wonderful time in the courtyard and learned a great deal about solar energy.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6108 Thu, 07 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT “This was the work of the entire East Islip community coming together for the children,” said Board of Education President Glenn Reed, capping off the Board’s unanimous June 5 vote to adopt a new 2012-13 budget. The packed crowd at the District Office’s first-floor cafeteria erupted in hopeful applause at the announcement that this second budget would stay below New York State’s tax cap limit while preserving crucial but threatened programs and services such as full-day kindergarten, the nine-period day at the high school and middle school, a robust music program and varsity and JV athletics. The newly adopted $105.8 million budget reflects a 2.99 percent tax levy increase, well under the state-imposed 3.23 percent tax levy cap, retooling made possible through a combination of judicious personnel reductions, a significant employee compensation modification (with no contract extension or deferrals) and new state aid. Included in this budget would be full-day kindergarten, the high school and middle school nine-period day, the full complement of varsity and JV sports, almost the entire current music program and the retention of two elementary computer lab teaching assistants. On the other side of the ledger, the budget would eliminate sixth-grade foreign-language classes, third-grade instrumental music lessons and late buses, along with general reductions in equipment, contractual expenses and materials and supplies. School clubs would be trimmed and consolidated at the elementary, middle and high school levels. A total of 27 staff positions would be cut: one elementary librarian, one guidance counselor, one AIS math teacher, one social worker, one BOCES social worker, five computer lab assistants, 12 inclusion-classroom teaching assistants (to be replaced by 12 paraprofessionals), six secretarial positions, one music teacher, one additional administrator, three custodians, one general education teacher, two paraprofessionals, .5 special education teacher, 1.5 middle school foreign language teachers and one security position. Productive meetings with the District’s school employee units resulted in the following money-saving compromise concessions: a one-time reduction in the employee welfare trust (totaling $320,000) and a compensation give-back from District office administrators. There are no reciprocal contract deferrals or extensions associated with these arrangements. Instead, members of the East Islip Teachers Association will have a summer conference day requirement waived, and other members will be given one floating holiday. Reed thanked the unions and their representatives for their cooperation, noting that they had spent “many hours, weekends, nights” hammering out the needed give-backs. “Our employee base has risen to the occasion,” he said. The new budget was also strongly impacted by the infusion of additional state aid, thanks to the efforts of local legislators. State Sen. Lee Zeldin will sponsor a legislative resolution – intended for approval by June 21 – that will provide $120,000 in state aid for East Islip, to be used to support an investment in upgrading the District’s technology infrastructure. This new money allowed District officials to reduce the tax levy increase to 2.99 percent. The revised budget, up for revote on June 19, will need only a simple majority (50 percent plus one) to pass, compared to the 60 percent supermajority that would have been required for the prior $107.6 million budget that failed on May 15. Should the budget revote fail, the resulting contingency budget or “tax freeze” would require additional cuts of $1.9 million and would mean not only the loss of all the restored programs (including full-day kindergarten, the nine-period day, the athletic program and non-mandated music), but additional major staff and program reductions. Prior to adopting the budget, Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello recognized Assistant Superintendent for Business Carl Fraser’s achievement in winning the Philip B. Fredenburg Memorial Award from the New York State Association of School Business Officials (NYSASBO), in honor of Fraser’s longtime outstanding service. The Board also approved a resolution to extend Finello’s contract as interim superintendent for another year, again with a unanimous vote. Reed praised the superintendent’s hard work on the budget process and noted how much the District benefited from Finello’s vast experience, leading to a standing ovation from the audience. In other business, the Board announced the pending retirements of East Islip High School Assistant Principal Kevin Brown (after 10 years of service) and music teacher Patricia DeRosa-Padden (who has taught general music and chorus at the District’s schools for 25 years, most recently at Timber Point). The Board will hold a Budget Hearing on Tuesday, June 12 at 7 p.m. in the first-floor cafeteria of the District Office, during which the public can ask questions and make comments. Further, the Board will hold its regular monthly meeting on Thursday, June 14 at 8 p.m., followed by a special meeting to announce the budget revote results on June 19 at 9 p.m. Both meetings will take place at the District Office boardroom. Budget Adoption: 2012-13 2012-13 Budget Analysis for Revote http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6082 Wed, 06 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School senior Ken Pastore has signed a National Letter of Intent to play lacrosse for Albright College. The Redmen defenseman will major in criminal justice while attending Albright, a private college founded in 1856 in Reading, Penn. Albright’s lacrosse program is brand new; it became a varsity-level sport in 2011 and began competition this spring. With Jake Plunket as their first head coach, the varsity Lions finished 16-3 in their inaugural season and played in the 2012 Commonwealth Conference men's lacrosse championship game. “I really like the school and the coach,” said Pastore, explaining his selection. “I also think Albright’s educational programs are very good,” he added. East Islip lacrosse coach Joe Ancona was also pleased with Pastore’s choice. “Albright is a really good fit for Ken’s style of play,” he said. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6095 Wed, 06 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT After several years of hard work and fundraising, Connetquot Elementary School's new community-funded, barrier-free playground was dedicated on June 6 to the children of the East Islip School District. “This new playground was designed with all children in mind,” said Principal Deborah Smith. “It represents what we value at Connequot Elementary School and the East Islip School District – an inclusive setting where everyone plays. We call this a boundless playground and our intent is to encourage all students of all abilities to enjoy this recreational area together, to foster sensitivity and empathy and to mutually enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. The group effort that made this happen represents what a community can do when they believe in positive change in order to improve our children’s experiences.” The dedicated members of the Connetquot Playground Committee were in attendance, as were members of local child-centered organizations (Patricia Diesu from the For the Kids Foundation and Bea Huste-Petersen of the EJ Autism Foundation) and all five of the District’s administrators (Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction and Personnel Alise Becker-Santa, Assistant Superintendent for Business Carl Fraser, Assistant to the Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Susan Kosser and Buildings and Grounds Administrator Robert Tartaglia). The school’s creative music teacher, Eileen Egbert, composed a song in tribute to the new Connetquot playground. She performed the moving piece, written expressly for the event, with accompaniment from Rose Eger’s first-grade class and soloists Danielle Kaczynski, Emily Vazquez and Kristina Zinkiewicz. Thanking the community for their high level of support for the project, Connetquot PTA member Tina McNamara gave a speech that included a poem about the importance of “play.” Teacher Robert Chiarelli also gave thanks to the committee members in attendance whose diligent efforts helped fund the playground. The ceremonial ribbon was then cut and the Connetquot playground officially dedicated to children of all abilities. Smith is quick to note how much of a true community effort this project was, starting with contractor Tony Barbato of Holbrook-based Louis Barbato. “The playground was made possible by the herculean efforts of Tony and his hardworking crew, who removed the old structure and assembled the new in record time. His employees and even his father and sons demonstrated their diligence and commitment to the project in their enthusiasm to build this. We recognize and truly value the work they did.” Financial assistance came from even the most unexpected places. “One of Connetquot’s fourth-grade students, Ryan Bauer, has a very lucky grandmother, Dorothy Bauer,” Smith explained. “Mrs. Bauer entered a Pathmark/Coca-Cola Sweepstakes contest this past fall and won $5,000 for the playground!” She also cited the invaluable efforts and donations of Connetquot teachers like Chiarelli, Melinda Safrany and William Young; the members of SEPTA; and numerous local families, including the Barras, Blaschucks, Greenbergs, Kaczinskis, Kozacks, McCaffreys, McNamaras, Manweilers, Mottos and Staubers. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6096 Wed, 06 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students from East Islip High School’s International Business Globalization Career Academy participated in the Virtual Enterprises International trade show this spring at the 69th Regiment Armory in New York City. A team of ambitious seniors who run the Academy’s Mobile Revolution company – now in its second year of existence at East Islip – designed and created their own booth for the show, and spent the day meeting customers and selling them over $16,000 worth of virtual products. These sales were calculated into their Virtual Enterprises final revenue numbers, making the students’ company once again financially successful. Advice, expertise and assistance for this virtual company came from experts in the business world such as Rockefeller Group Technology Solutions CEO John Tarduno, who provided the Mobile Revolution team with a promotional display unit as well as a raffle iPad, and Capital One Bank Senior Vice President of Marketing Andrew Corrado, whose company donated workstations and other furniture that was essential for setting up the Business Academy office. “This trade show is again the culmination of a year of planning, hard work and team effort for East Islip’s Mobile Revolution students,” said Career Academy director Israel Malinowitzer. “They proved that they are ready to compete in the global marketplace.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6075 Tue, 05 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip softball team’s postseason came to a close on a drizzly Tuesday afternoon at the Mitchel Athletic Complex in Uniondale, as they lost the Long Island championship to Levittown’s MacArthur High School on June 5 by a 16-2 score. The Redmen (21-6) had dominated the playoffs until that point, amassing impressive victories over Centereach, Commack, Bay Shore and Longwood on their way to claiming the Suffolk County Class AA championship title. East Islip simply fell short, unable to match the batting of Nassau champs MacArthur, but their pride in a terrific season of softball remains. The East Islip-MacArthur game will be aired on MSG Varsity on Saturday, June 9 at 10 a.m. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6079 Tue, 05 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT For infomation on the East Islip High School 2012 Spring Athletic Awards Night, to be held on Tuesday, June 12, please click here. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6081 Tue, 05 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for June 4, 2012: Fourth-grader Daniel Gelabert of John F. Kennedy Elementary Kindergartners Noah Abruzzo, Michael Amato, George Arena, Avarose Buccino, Sean Carey, Anna Carino, Steven DiTomasso, Taylor Donlin, Rhianna Irizarry-McAdam, Joseph Jakits, Sophie Jensen, Mary Ranzie, Louis Santonino, Alyssa Sheehan and Thomas Snoble of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6052 Mon, 04 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Carl Fraser, the East Islip School District’s Assistant Superintendent for Business, has received the prestigious Philip B. Fredenburg Memorial Award from the New York State Association of School Business Officials (NYSASBO), recognizing his outstanding service to the school district’s children and the East Islip educational community for over 18 years. Fraser’s financial leadership and expertise in such areas as resource management have garnered praise and admiration from his peers in NYSASBO. The organization’s outstanding service award, given since 1958 to individuals for performance and achievement above and beyond normal expectations, was renamed in 1999 in honor of former NYSASBO President Philip B. Fredenburg, a prominent educational voice for the profession of school business administration. Photos by Glenn Reed. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6054 Mon, 04 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students in teacher Chad Spruyt’s auto mechanics classes recently restored and upgraded a 1989 Jeep Wrangler, gaining valuable practical experience. The project began as a special project for Spruyt’s six advanced auto students at East Islip High School: Paul Brett, Joe Hammel, John Landy, Nick Palladinno, Gerard Rosand and Mike White. Aided by five additional auto students (Kerrigan Apacella, Tyler Ennis, Frank Fritz, Kain Lawrence and Anthony Mattera), the young mechanics completely disassembled the Jeep, then started the rebuild by fixing rotted spots in the frame and coating it with truck bed liner. They then installed a 3.5-inch lift with new suspension, and disassembled, cleaned, machined and rebuilt a 350 Chevy engine that had been recycled from an old boat. After installing new motor mounts for the engine swap and installing the rest of the drive train, the students began the bodywork process. Dents were pulled, new floorpans were cut and welded, the Jeep’s underbody and inside were coated with truck bed liner, and the outside was given a new coat of orange paint. In the most recent phase of the restoration, the Jeep’s main body was reinstalled on the frame and the fenders and front end are in the process of being reinstalled. “With this Jeep restoration, my auto students have learned front-end work, how internal engine parts work and how to pull an engine and install a new one,” said Spruyt. “They’ve learned the reason for a transmission and transfer case, and the reason for gear oil and how to change it. They have also gained experience with electrical, cooling and braking systems.” He estimates the Jeep restoration project will be completed in late June. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6059 Mon, 04 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Photos by Glenn Reed. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6028 Sun, 03 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT BOYS VARSITY TRACK AND FIELD The members of the East Islip boys track and field team ended their season on Saturday, June 2 at the top of their game. Two new school records were established by All-County senior Jerel Williams, who placed third in the 400-meter run with a time of 49.33, and the members of the 4x100 relay team, who ran a time of 44.21 to place sixth overall in the county. Zach Acocella was the only freshman in the entire county who competed in the triple jump, with a score of 41'1". Other notable performers from the team included David Nappi in the pole vault (12'0"), Andrew Sharkey in the 400 intermediate hurdles (58.92), Nick Croce in the high jump (5'6") and Brandon Vuolo in the shot put and discus (44'3", 125'3"). “This season was one of the best the East Islip boys track program has ever had,” said coach James Connell. “I'm really going to miss all of our senior athletes who helped us make it such a great one!” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6029 Sun, 03 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education will hold a special meeting on June 19, 2012 at 9 p.m. to announce the results of the 2012-13 East Islip school budget revote. The meeting will be held at the District Office boardroom. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6031 Sun, 03 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School’s student government hosted the school’s fifth annual Coffee House poetry and music event on June 1. More than 40 students and teachers participated, reading poetry and stories as well as singing and playing musical instruments. The middle school jazz band kicked off the evening with a few pleasing pieces, and for the first time, a student even showcased a music video, created for the Nickelback song “Lullaby” to address the topic of bullying. “This event has become bigger and better every year, with more and more students choosing to get involved and share their literary and musical talents with others,” said eighth-grade English teacher Claire Voss. “It provides our students with an opportunity to showcase their talents in an informal environment where they can feel free to express themselves.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6036 Sun, 03 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Timber Point Elementary teacher Jen Giordano’s environmentally conscious fifth-grade students, popularly known as “The Recyclinators,” were again declared New York State champions of the 2012 Disney Planet Challenge. This is the first time in the history of the nationwide competition that a school has won more than once. The Disney Planet Challenge, a project-based learning adventure that empowers students to make a difference, intertwines hands-on learning with an existing curriculum. As New York State’s Planet Challenge winners, the Recyclinators were awarded eco-prize packs containing DVDs, CDs, water bottles and lunch totes. To earn their first-place selection, the Recyclinators recycled batteries, water bottles, paper, juice pouches and cell phones, among other items. These ambitious fifth-graders also co-authored legislation with Rep. Steve Israel which would require stores to recycle alkaline batteries – the bill is currently under review in the U.S. House of Representatives. Additional Recyclinators achievements throughout the 2011-2012 school year include initiating a “Don’t Throw It in the Trash, Turn It into Cash” community recycling event, hosting a “Families Going Green” program at the East Islip Public Library, creating and selling reusable grocery bags and eco-calendars, presenting a student-run “America Recycles Day” slideshow, constructing a compost pile at the school and distributing reusable water bottles to the entire staff and student body at Timber Point. “We were excited about teaching kids that they could make a difference,” said one of the students, Julia Ryan. Kyle DeLisi added, “The best part of the challenge was knowing that whatever ideas we came up with, we could do. Our principal, Dr. Belz, let us do everything we asked because she knew we were learning and making the world a better place.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6037 Sun, 03 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School senior Qian Zheng will attend Manhattan’s Fashion Institute of Technology this fall, beginning her career journey. She plans to major in fashion merchandising management. Founded in 1944, this State University of New York (SUNY) college, generally known as FIT, remains one of the five top fashion schools in the world and is famous for its urban campus and close connections to the fashion industry. “I chose FIT because it’s one of the top art and fashion schools in the nation,” said Zheng. “FIT is the perfect place for me to express my love of art.” Like so many of her fellow members of East Islip’s International Business Globalization Career Academy, where she served as Mobile Revolution’s vice president of administration and purchasing, Zheng credits that program with much of her success as a senior. “My last year at East Islip has been one of the best of my high school education because of the Career Academy,” she said. “I learned a lot by being VP and came across many different types of people with their own opinions. Sometimes it was hard, but I learned to manage and to become an entrepreneur, which is not as easy as everyone thinks. Meeting important people such as the CEO of Rockefeller Group Technology Services helped me become more open-minded.” The social cohesion of the Career Academy also had an effect on her. “It was an experience I will never forget, especially the friends I’ve made throughout this year,” Zheng added. “Being together for almost every period, it made us all closer.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6038 Sun, 03 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip's softball team can count themselves Suffolk champions for the very first time. With their 6-5 defeat of Longwood on June 1, the Redmen wrapped up the three-game Suffolk County Class AA championship series. "It's such a great feeling because it's the first time," said head coach Jason McGowan. "And also because we deserved it. Our team really had a tough road. East Islip had to knock off the number one and number two seeds to get to the championship series. We had to beat the best, and we did." East Islip's fortunes were tied to star pitcher Courtney Blake, a senior who recently signed a National Letter of Intent to play softball for Endicott College. Blake pitched in all three games. After eliminating Centereach, Commack and Bay Shore, East Islip began the Longwood series with a 12-4 win on May 29 at Longwood, only to stumble in game two, losing 6-3 in East Islip on May 31. In the deciding third contest, held at Longwood, Blake came up big, pitching a tough complete game. As the seventh inning began, Blake hit a double, then scored the tying run on Shelby Heyward's RBI single. Pinch runner Kristina Rodriguez put East Islip ahead, scoring the go-ahead run, after which Blake shut Longwood's batters down. EI (21-5) will next face the Nassau County champs, Levittown's MacArthur High School, on Tuesday, June 5 for the Class AA Long Island championship. The game will take place at 4 p.m. at Mitchel Athletic Complex in Uniondale. McGowan is confident in his team's ability to rise to the occasion and deliver under pressure, noting, "Our girls are resilient." He has no doubt that East Islip can be Long Island's best. ""MacArthur are a very good team and were ranked number one all year," he said. "We scrimmaged them in March and they're good, but we feel we're peaking right now. We are on a roll and can beat anybody." http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6019 Fri, 01 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Kelan Soto, a student at Ruth C. Kinney Elementary in Islip Terrace, was chosen as the fifth-grade statewide winner of the New York State Department of Health’s 2012 “SunWise with SHADE” poster contest. Soto and her fellow students in Jennifer Talbot’s classroom at RCK participated in this national contest, which was sponsored by the SHADE Foundation and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Soto’s entry, which will be published in the SunWise with SHADE 2013 calendar, was selected from over 5,500 posters submitted from students across New York State in grades K-8. Her poster will also appear on the New York State Department of Health website and she will be awarded a $50 check from Health Research Incorporated. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6008 Thu, 31 May 2012 11:00:00 GMT Brand-new Ford vehicles were on display on May 12 as East Islip High School teamed up with Sayville Ford to present EI’s third annual Ford Drive One 4 UR School fundraiser. The Drive One 4 UR School program was developed as a fun and engaging way to help high schools raise money to support special programs. For each valid test drive completed, Ford Motor Company donated $20 to benefit East Islip’s Career Academy programs. “We would like to thank all of the volunteers who came out to lend their support,” said a Sayville Ford representative. “We would also like to thank everyone who came down and test drove one of our vehicles. Community is important to us here at Sayville Ford. We thank East Islip High School for allowing us the opportunity to partner with them for this event!” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6010 Thu, 31 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT With a 6-5 defeat of Longwood on June 1, East Islip's softball team wrapped up the series and won the Suffolk County Class AA championship. EI will face Levittown's MacArthur High School on Tuesday, June 5 for the Class AA Long Island championship. The game will take place at 4 p.m. at Mitchel Field in Uniondale. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6018 Thu, 31 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education has postponed its budget adoption to Tuesday, June 5 at 7 p.m. The meeting will take place in the first floor cafeteria of the District office. Since the defeat of the proposed budget on May 15, the Board of Education has pledged that the revised budget will not exceed the tax cap, thereby requiring only a simple majority for approval. However, revising the budget to meet a tax levy cap increase of 3.20 percent requires reductions in spending that will likely impact important and valued student programs and services such as full-day kindergarten, athletics, other instructional areas and the nine-period day at the middle school and high school. None of these reductions are options that the Board and the school community believe are desirable. With this in mind, district officials and representatives from the bargaining groups are working collectively to meet the challenge of restoring these important programs. As a result, more time is needed to complete the task. The Board of Education appreciates the community’s patience and looks forward to adopting the revised budget on Tuesday, June 5. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6003 Thu, 31 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School senior Rebecca Walter was recently awarded a $1,000 scholarship from the New York State Council of Administrators for Music Education (NYSCAME) for her talent and dedication in vocal music and violin, which she will use for college expenses. It’s no wonder NYSCAME chose to bestow this scholarship on her, as the list of musical honors on the 18-year-old’s resume is extremely impressive. As both a junior and senior, she was chosen for All-State honors in the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) All-State women’s chorus performing group. A member of East Islip’s Tri-M Music Honor Society and honors choir, Walter also played violin in the high school’s string orchestra and chamber orchestra. She performed at the Suffolk County Music Educators' Association (SCMEA) concerts in 2010 and 2011. “The Music in the Parks festival was the highlight of my EI experience, especially this year’s event,” said Walter, whose busy slate of activities also includes performing musical theater outside of school (at the BroadHollow Theatre Company in East Islip and the Creative Ministries Performing Arts Center in Oakdale) and working as a summer camp counselor. Walter will attend the Hartt School of Music this fall, where she plans to study vocal music education. Founded in 1920, the prestigious Hartt School is a performing arts conservatory of the University of Hartford in West Hartford, Conn. Walter noted that the NYSCAME scholarship funds will come in handy for the books she will need to purchase for her studies at Hartt. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5989 Wed, 30 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT Redmen midfielder Joe Modica will be suiting up for Dowling College’s lacrosse team this fall. The East Islip High School senior recently signed a National Letter of Intent to play for the Oakdale college’s Golden Lions. Dowling’s fourth-seeded team, which plays at the school’s Brookhaven Campus in Shirley, won their first ever men's lacrosse national championship this week. “Dowling is a really good Division II school with a great tradition, and it’s close to home,” Modica said, explaining his choice. He and his East Islip coach Joe Ancona were particularly impressed with the Dowling lacrosse program and facilities. “Coach Tim Boyle made me feel really comfortable,” added the senior, who has been playing lacrosse since second or third grade and also was a member of EI’s varsity football squad. Modica plans to major in biology with a minor in aviation. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5982 Wed, 30 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for May 28, 2012: Second-grader Ginger Mostrasimone of John F. Kennedy Elementary Second-graders Morgan Amato, Ryan Bauco, Nick Fabio, Olivia McBride and Jack Murphy of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5972 Tue, 29 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Featuring over 100 inspired student-musicians in band, chorus and orchestra, this year’s Ruth C. Kinney Elementary School Spring Concert was an unqualified success. The May 21 event earned well-deserved applause from audience in the East Islip High School auditorium. RCK Principal Danielle Naccarato introduced the program with East Islip Director of Art and Music Stephen Guarino, praising the school’s improvement in musicianship and thanking the community for their attendance and support. “I was so impressed by the performances at this concert,” said Naccarato. “It is always amazing to hear how much the students have grown musically since our Winter Concert, which is due to our outstanding musical teaching staff, supportive parents and of course the talented students at RCK.” The evening began with performances by the beginner and advanced bands, both directed by Lynda Maniscalco. Starting with English folk song “London Bridge,” the beginner band went on to tackle Haydn’s “Surprise” Symphony and the classic “Ode to Joy” from Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. The 44-member advanced band impressed the crowd with James Swearingen’s “To a New Beginning,” “Galactic Episode” by John O’Reilly and Mark Williams and a rendition of “The Raiders March” by John Williams (Indiana Jones’ theme from “Raiders of the Lost Ark”). Next up was the RCK chorus, directed by Margaret Strzelecka. The students sang their hearts out on versions of “Red River Dances,” Ellen Woods Bryce’s “A Musical Recipe” and Audrey Snyder’s “Firefly” before donning shades for a swaggering romp through Teresa Jennings’ “Dancin’ on the Rooftop.” RCK’s beginner and advanced orchestras – led by director Angela Fetcho and accompanied by Strzelecka on piano – ended the evening of music on a high note. The beginners performed American classics “I Like Chocolate Ice Cream,” “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” and “Bile 'Em Cabbage Down,” followed by the advanced orchestra’s vibrant renditions of pieces by Mark Williams (“Fancy Fiddles”), Leopold Mozart (“Happy Dance”) and Rob Grice (“Defender of Time”), all leading to cheers from parents and listeners. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5976 Tue, 29 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education will hold an executive session to discuss personnel matters on Saturday, June 2, at the District offices beginning at 9 a.m. This session is not open to the public. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5893 Tue, 29 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Tarkan Takil is making waves in the world of indie cinema with his recent short film “A Tear in the Flannel.” The East Islip High School senior was recently interviewed by MSG Varsity for “The Student Director’s Cut,” their new student-hosted show highlighting original film productions by students. MSG Varsity also named Takil’s movie as a regional finalist in their local independent film video competition. If he wins this tri-state competition, it could help provide the school and its video studio with thousands of dollars in prize money. “Tarkan has a true passion for filmmaking,” said teacher James Connell. “His work ethic and ambition for making movies makes him one of the top students in East Islip’s broadcast television course.” Created back in March for the annual Long Island Media Arts Show competition, “A Tear in the Flannel” was filmed outside of class and then edited in Connell’s classroom. The hilarious film, replete with references to Tumblr and hipster fashions, was designed to be a spoof of the reality show “Intervention,” and he had no trouble finding likeminded students to collaborate with. "Tarkan has a very easygoing personality and is extremely fun to work with as a filmmaker,” said fellow senior and close friend David Tekverk. Tekverk himself was also the recipient of an extraordinary recent honor for “Slap Stick Figures,” an animated film he made with fellow East Islip students Brendan Bullard and Brian Potter. Previously chosen as “Best in Show” at the Long Island Media Arts Show, “Slap Stick Figures” was selected by the Suffolk County Film Commission for the seventh annual Suffolk County First Exposure Film Festival and screened at the prestigious Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington on May 20. Takil and Tekverk’s triumphs were possible due to the depth and quality of East Islip’s video equipment and program. “All year long we have been making improvements to the TV studio facility,” explained Connell. These upgrades included a green-screen wall, new wifi and media storage, five new Mac editors and two new digital cameras. “The TV studio cameras used to have older mini-televisions hooked up to them for the teleprompters,” said Connell. “The students in Chad Spruyt’s metal shop course designed and created new mounts for them using sheet metal so that they can be modernized with 13-inch flat-panel computer monitors.” As evidenced by successful productions like “A Tear in the Flannel” and “Slap Stick Figures,” Connell sees a bright future for East Islip’s video program. “Thanks largely to our partnership with MSG Varsity, we believe the video course will continue to thrive,” he said. “As long as we keep providing them with videos, they will continue to help fund the program. Every time we upload videos to their website we collect points, and those points then get converted to dollars that can be used to purchase additional equipment.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5963 Mon, 28 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School students from the International Business Globalization Career Academy’s Virtual Enterprise program were invited to visit the New York City office of the Porter Novelli public relations firm this spring. Founded in Washington, D.C. in 1972 and part of the Omnicom Group, Porter Novelli has approximately 100 offices in 60 countries and is known for its innovative use of social media. With an initial focus on helping market nonprofit organizations and civic causes, the company now also handles crisis management, consumer marketing, health care and technology for clients such as Navy Federal Credit Union, FDIC, Johnson & Johnson Corporate Communications, Blockbuster Video, and the National Institutes of Health. “We were given a tour of the premises by Porter Novelli’s Senior Vice President/Director of Finance Mark Amone,” recounted Career Academy director Israel Malinowitzer. “The Virtual Enterprise students had an opportunity to hear from some of the employees and administrators of the company that are involved in the actual business of marketing, and had a chance to ask questions and to learn about the career skills that are required to enter the public relations field.” Porter Novelli professionals also discussed the company’s internship programs and the firm’s methodology– from surveys to brainstorming sessions – used to create a successful marketing plan. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5964 Mon, 28 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The next Board of Education meeting, in which the Board will formally adopt a second budget, is set for Friday, June 1 at 7 p.m. in the District office first-floor cafeteria. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5965 Mon, 28 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT BOYS TRACK AND FIELD The boys varsity track and field team excelled yet again, this time at the division championship track meet held at Comsewogue High School in Port Jefferson Station on May 21 and 23. The team was led by two exceptional All-Division athletes, senior Jerel Williams (who won the 400-meter run) and junior Andrew Sharkey (placing second in the 400-meter intermediate hurdles). Both set new East Islip High School records in their events. Williams broke the previous 400-meter record time of 50.24 (set by Bill Romaine in 1973) with his new time of 49.87, while Sharkey broke his own school record with a new time of 57.96. Other notable performances included David Nappi and Corey Fitchett (tied for fifth place in pole vault), Jesse Friel (seventh place in pole vault), Brandon Vuolo (sixth place in shot put), Nick Croce (sixth place in high jump). “Great job by all who competed!” said coach James Connell. GIRLS VARSITY LACROSSE After East Islip beat Northport on May 21 in the second round, they faced Ward Melville in the semifinals. The May 23 game was won by Ward Melville, 13-5. East Islip’s scorers were Lisa Olen (2 goals), Nicole Levy (1 goal), Elizabeth Vetter (1 goal) and Carlee Ancona (1 goal). Krista Ancona made 3 saves. GIRLS MIDDLE SCHOOL LACROSSE The East Islip Middle School girls lacrosse team won their last game on May 23, beating William Floyd 13-9. Taylor Lundin scored 4 goals, Rachel Florenz scored 3 and Veronica Saager scored 2. Amanda Moccaldi, Sara Wright, Samantha Levey and Molly O'Neill each netted a goal apiece. “Congratulations to the entire team for an amazing season,” said coach Melissa Love. SOFTBALL In a Suffolk County AA first-round game, East Islip demolished Centereach on May 22, shutting them out 10-0. Winning pitcher Courtney Blake threw a 6-hitter with 5 strikeouts; Kelsey Fileccia went 1-for-2 with a 3-run home run and 3 runs scored; and Heather Zenk was 2-for-4 with 2 RBI. In round 2, East Islip faced Commack on May 24 and won 3-2. Shelby Heyward hit a 2-run homer in the bottom of the first inning, while Faith Padro added a run-scoring double. In the semifinal game on May 26, East Islip and Blake upset top-seeded Bay Shore 4-3 to send EI into the finals against Longwood. Fileccia hit a go-ahead RBI single to break the 3-3 tie http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5957 Sun, 27 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip's fourth-seeded softball squad edged out top-seeded, undefeated defending champs Bay Shore on their home turf on May 26. The 4-3 Suffolk AA semifinals victory sent East Islip's Redmen into their fifth championship series (and first since 2003). Game one of the best-of-three championship series against Longwood High School will take place on Tuesday, May 29 at 4 p.m. at Longwood. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5921 Fri, 25 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT At the May 11 production of "The Elephant's Child" musical, young performers from the Connetquot classrooms of Leslie Davis, Jennifer Rizzo, Melissa Love and Crystal Chiari enchanted parents and other students with colorful stage sets and animal costumes including kolo kolo birds, crocodiles, snakes, gorillas, zebras, ostriches, giraffes, hippos, tigers, lions and, of course, elephants. Adapted by chorus teacher Eileen Egbert from the play by Virginia Kolk Pedulla, based on Rudyard Kipling's classic tale (part of his 1902 collection "Just So Stories for Little Children"), this whimsical origin story/travelogue explains how the elephant came to have a long trunk. Directed by Egbert, songs such as "I'm a Kolo Kolo Bird," "The Limpopo River" and "A Trunk Is a Handy Dandy Thing" amused the audience while teaching the geography and history of Africa. Interspersed with compositions from the musical were four traditional African songs from various regions of the continent: "Funga Alafia" (Nigeria), "Dipidu" (Uganda), "Kye Kye Kule (Che Che Kule)" (Ghana) and "Hamba Ni Kahle" (South Africa). http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5912 Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School was a little quieter on April 20, as dozens of students participated in the annual national Day of Silence. Sponsored by the school’s Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) club, the event raises awareness about the importance of standing up against the bullying and discrimination faced by many gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender students inside schools. Said guidance counselor and GSA adviser Jessica Pignataro, “When the GSA first sponsored this event in 2009 we had about 20 students participate. That number has grown every year, which is a wonderful thing to see. With all of the bullying-related information in the media, this is a great opportunity for the kids to do something positive and informative.” The Day of Silence was founded by a group of college students in 1996, with the intent of drawing attention to the silencing effects of bullying. Participating students take a vow of silence for an entire school day – including lunchtime, which can be difficult – and carry informational speaking cards to hand out. “We are really grateful to have such a supportive staff and administration, who stood behind these students as they took part in this event,” said Pignataro. “Many staff members wore shirts, buttons or bracelets in support of the event, and held discussions in their classes about the importance of having a school that is safe for all students.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5918 Wed, 23 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip Middle School's track teams are on a roll, running three meets in three days last week. Photos by Glenn Reed. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5895 Wed, 23 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s music department had a triumphant day on May 18 when they participated in the Music in the Parks Festival and Competition in Toms River, N.J. Five of East Islip’s performing groups were enrolled in the competitive AA categories and swept every division. Representing East Islip High School, the honors choir took first place in the choral division, the wind ensemble earned first place in the band division, the string orchestra placed first in the string orchestra division, the jazz ensemble won first place in the jazz ensemble division and the honors symphony took first place in the full orchestra division. All were awarded Superior ratings. Additionally, the honors choir was awarded a trophy for Best Overall Choir, the wind ensemble won Best Overall Band and the honors symphony was honored as Best Overall Orchestra. East Islip’s honors symphony also received a score of 99 – the highest score of the festival. Subsequent comments from the Music in the Parks judges – college professors and department chairs from Temple University in Philadelphia, the College of New Jersey, Georgian Court University and William Patterson University – reflected an extraordinary respect for the performance level of East Islip’s musicians. One said of the EI honors choir, “You transcend the sound of a typical high school choir.” Another praised the honors symphony, saying, “You are the role model of what public school music education should be!” The weekend sweep at Music in the Parks is the latest in a long string of successful annual competitions for East Islip’s music department, which sends over 700 students to NYSSMA each year, yields significant representation at All-State, All-County and Long Island String Festival concerts, regularly earns multiple Teeny Award nominations for its annual musicals and serves as an incubator for student teachers from most New York music colleges. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5902 Wed, 23 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s Class of 1972 is planning a 40th reunion, to be held on Saturday, October 6, 2012 at the East Islip firehouse from 6-11 p.m. The cost to attend is $50 per person (includes deluxe cocktail hour, hot buffet, coffee, tea and cake). The event will be BYOB (soda, beer, wine). A block of rooms has been reserved at the Sheraton Hotel in Smithtown from Oct. 5-8, 2012. Reservations can be made for one, two or all three nights depending upon individual needs. The rooms are reserved under "East Islip HS Class of 1972." The room block at the Sheraton will be released on Sept. 4, 2012, after which the rooms will be at current price and according to availabliity. Contact organizer Jacque Profera Hereth for more information (telephone 631-581-6542), or visit the EIHS Class of 1972 Facebook page. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5647 Tue, 22 May 2012 23:00:00 GMT Hot on the heels of their four Quill Awards in March, the staff of East Islip High School’s acclaimed newspaper The Broadcaster won another four honors on May 22 at the annual Long Island Press High School Journalism Awards hosted by Hofstra University. In the Best Social Commentary category, senior Brandon Missig, the paper’s features editor, won first place for “Forgetting Silence and Simplicity” while fellow senior Iain Mawhinney’s piece “SOPA: Not as Constitutional as It Sounds” earned him a second place award. Winning Honorable Mention awards were Music Editor Michelle Arp in Best Arts Criticism for her essay “Hipster Nation” and Centerfold Editor Sarah Schreiner in Best Opinion Piece for “Should the Government Control Our Diets?” Other Broadcaster staffers attending the ceremonies with teacher Joan Dlouhy were photographer Scott Cole, Copy Editor Joe Malone, cartoonist Taylor Smith and Sports Editor Cristiana Votta. - Broadcaster advisers Dlouhy and James Connell also received word from the American Scholastic Press Association (ASPA) that the East Islip school paper had won first place as Best Overall Newspaper in the 2011-2012 Scholastic Newspaper Awards. Eavan O'Connor, a senior who recently won acceptance to Cooper Union, also won first place in the Best Editorial Cartoon category for his work illustrating “Spewing %*@# (for lack of a better word).” “The Broadcaster is one of our longest standing and proudest EI programs, and I congratulate the staff on this tremendous success and recognition,” said Board of Education President Glenn Reed. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5878 Tue, 22 May 2012 10:00:00 GMT While not quite a field trip to Italy, East Islip Middle School students certainly got a taste of that nation’s dairy products when BelGioioso Cheese sales manager Angela Rossi visited Rena Costello’s home and career skills classroom on May 23. The curious eighth-graders discovered how cheeses are made and aged, learned the history of the BelGioioso company and sampled a variety of cheeses from parmesan and provolone to asiago and fontina. Many of the students were unfamiliar with any other cheeses besides American cheese and had never tried fresh mozzarella before (BelGioioso’s is the top selling brand in the U.S.). The tastings broadened their culinary horizons, while the recipes Rossi gave them to take home provided ideas for delicious meals. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5881 Tue, 22 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT BASEBALL East Islip and pitcher John Dondero fell 8-2 to Longwood on May 17 in the first round of the Suffolk County AA playoffs. In the May 18 Suffolk loser's bracket game, East Islip was shut out by West Islip, 1-0. EI pitcher Ken Rotunno threw a 2-hitter. BOYS TENNIS East Islip’s boys tennis team lost 4-3 to Floyd on May 16 in the first round of the Suffolk County playoffs. Raul Ramos and Andrew Loizides were defeated by A.J. Taranto and Jason Lin 6-3, 6-4 in the deciding third doubles match. BOYS TRACK AND FIELD The boys varsity track and field team had another excellent showing at the annual Freshman Sophomore Championships held on May 16 at Longwood High School. The team was led by its freshman athletes, who scored a total of 31 points and tied for third place overall in the freshman division. Standout freshmen for this meet included triple-medalist Zach Acocella (third place in long jump, second place in 400-meter and first place in triple jump), Alex Russo (third place in triple jump) and Tom Koppelman (sixth place in the 400-meter intermediate hurdles). Other noteworthy EI athletes were sophomores Jessie Friel (second place overall in the pole vault) and Evan Barnes (jumping a personal best 18'10" in the long jump). “For many of our freshman and sophomore athletes this marked the end of their season,” said coach James Connell. “For most athletes who competed yesterday, they were running and jumping their personal bests. As a coach you can't ask for anything better than that!” GIRLS GOLF East Islip beat West Islip 8.5-0.5 on May 16 at at the Timberpoint Red Course, led by Kim Schmidt’s 9-over-par 45. GIRLS LACROSSE In the first round of the playoffs, East Islip came away with an impressive 16-9 victory against Patchogue-Medford on May 18, led by Victoria Gregson’s seven goals. Other EI scorers were Lisa Olen (3 goals, 1 assist), Elizabeth Vetter (3 goals), Nicole Levy (1 goal, 4 assists), Carlee Ancona (1 goal. 4 assists), Shannon Cummings (1 goal, 2 assists) and Jackie Niciforo (2 assists). EI goalies Krista Ancona and Lee-Ann Salim each made 3 saves. East Islip edged Northport 8-7 on May 21 in the second round, sparked by Krista Ancona’s 8-save performance. Scorers were Levy (2 goals, 2 assists), Niciforo (2 goals, 1 assist), Gregson (2 goals), Vetter (1 goal, 1 assist) and Olen (1 goa SOFTBALL East Islip’s softball team lost 6-5 to Whitman on May 14. Courtney Blake was EI’s losing pitcher. EI bounced back on May 16, clobbering Smithtown East by a lopsided 15-0 score. Blake was the winning pitcher , Kelsey Fileccia went 4-for-4 with 3 runs and Alexa Martone went 3-for-4 with 2 runs. On May 17, East Islip clinched the League III title by beating Newfield 3-1. Blake pitched a 3-hitter with 7 strikeouts for her 50th career victory. The senior went 2-for-2 with 2 runs. Shelby Heyward went 2-for-3 with one RBI. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5889 Tue, 22 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Jessie Ferraro's second-grade class at John F. Kennedy Elementary held a poetry showcase in the school’s Cafetorium on May 22. Each of her students worked on memorizing a poem, creating scenery and using props. The children performed traditional as well as contemporary poetry in front of an appreciative audience that included their friends and families and other JFK students from kindergarten through second grade. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5871 Tue, 22 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School Tri-M Honor Society induction, originally scheduled for Tuesday, May 29, 2012, has been rescheduled for September 2012. As the District builds the calendar for the upcoming school year, a confirmed date will be provided. Students with any questions regarding Tri-M eligibility should seek guidance from their high school music teacher. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5872 Tue, 22 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School’s third and latest Career Academy won’t even begin until the fall of 2012, but 29 of the 34 spaces in the new Medical and Health Technology Career Academy have already been filled by eager juniors interested in this burgeoning, diverse career field. More than twice that number have applied for acceptance. “We are very excited by the overwhelming response from next year’s seniors in East Islip High School,” said Career Academy director Israel Malinowitzer. “This program will be rigorous and very hands-on. Students will have the opportunity to speak with medical professionals and visit hospitals on Long Island, and we’ll provide them with the best information to help them make the right choices as they prepare to apply to colleges across the country. The medical field is very extensive and there are so many areas we need to inform our students about.” Career Academy teachers are also excited to kick-start the new program, and have been working together to create a challenging curriculum that will give these students what Malinowitzer calls “an education like no other school district on Long Island.” The Medical and Health Technology program itself may be new, but Malinowitzer already has a network in place to facilitate these goals. “We are very fortunate to already be partnered with North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health Systems and their facilities such as Bay Shore’s Southside Hospital. We’ve also heard from other professionals in the medical field who would like to come down and meet with our students, and explain the skills needed for pursuing a career in the medical field.” The program will demand intense commitment from participants – Medical and Health Technology Career Academy students will work on medical projects, must write college-level research papers and will be required to log 80 internship hours over the course of their senior year. The Academy students will also network with medical and health professionals, gaining first-hand experience of the realities of hospital work. “This new Career Academy will open their eyes and provide them with a true understanding of what the medical field is all about and what they need to do to succeed in it,” Malinowitzer concluded. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5868 Mon, 21 May 2012 10:00:00 GMT Well over 100 student-musicians from Connetquot Elementary School in Islip Terrace participated in the May 16 Spring Concert held in the East Islip High School auditorium. Connetquot Elementary Principal Deborah Smith and East Islip Director of Art and Music Stephen Guarino introduced the program, expressing gratitude to the attending community members for their strong support of the school’s music studies. The Connetquot beginner strings performed two American classics in “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” and “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star,” as well as Beethoven’s beatific “Ode to Joy.” The 30-member orchestra, accompanied by Rachel Axelrod, followed with rousing renditions of compositions by Robert Gillespie (“Mountain Climbing”), Elliot Del Borgo (“Clog Dance”) and Rob Grice (“Dragon Slayer”). The latter number featured percussionists Alexa Smith, Alexandra Stewart and Jacqueline Baldino as well as chorus teacher Eileen Egbert on bass drum. Both beginner strings and orchestra were directed by teacher Jaime DeMaria. Directed by Egbert and featuring Emily Vazquez as soloist as well as nine scat soloists, Connetquot’s chorus sang a wide variety of crowd-pleasing tunes, from a terrific rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and Lionel Hampton’s “Hey! Ba-Ba-Re-Bop” to George Mysels’ “Buy Me Chocolate” and “The Moon” by Dave and Jean Perry. Closing out the evening of music were the beginner and advanced bands, both directed by Ronald Fox. The beginner musicians tackled the American fiddle tune “Bile 'Em Cabbage Down,” Johann Strauss Jr.’s “Southern Roses” and Czech folk song “Stodola Pumpa,” while the advanced band of 39 students impressed the audience with “Ovation” by Michael Story, “First Suite for Military Band” by Gustav Holst, “Star Wars (Main Theme)” by John Williams and a fun arrangement of Katy Perry's anthemic “Firework.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5865 Mon, 21 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT Due to a scheduling conflict with the U.S. Marine Corps, the Fleet Week helicopter appearance in East Islip originally scheduled for May 29 has been canceled. "We regret the cancellation and look forward to seeing the helicopters next year," said East Islip High School Principal William Brennen. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5852 Mon, 21 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Artists of the Week for May 21, 2012: Fourth-grader Zoe Long of John F. Kennedy Elementary Fifth-grader Patrick Hammond of Ruth C. Kinney Elementary Fourth-graders Faith Henderson and Caroline Meehan of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5853 Mon, 21 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education will hold a Budget Workshop on Tuesday, May 29 at the District Office's first-floor cafeteria at 1 Craig B. Gariepy Avenue in Islip Terrace. Following an executive session at 7 p.m,. the public Board meeting will take place at 8 p.m. The East Islip School District will present a proposed revised 2012-13 school budget to the Board and community. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5799 Sun, 20 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Alanna Nawrocki may have been in East Islip for less than a year, but the graduating senior has made a big splash. Her splendid All-Long Island swimming skills not only earned her the opportunity to represent EI at this year’s state meets in Buffalo, but have now helped her ace a spot on the swimming team at Bucknell University. Nawrocki plans to major in psychology at Bucknell, a top-ranked liberal arts college founded in 1846 and located in Lewisburg, Penn. The Bison swim team, led by head coach Dan Schinnerer, is a successful member of the highly competitive Patriot League in Division I. “I chose Bucknell because of the beautiful campus, wonderfully innovative programs and amicable team,” Nawrocki explained. “I met with coach Schinnerer and the team on my recruiting trip, instantly fell in love and committed shortly afterward. I want to be part of something extraordinary, and in my meeting with the coach, I knew that I could see myself there for the next four years. Bucknell really has the perfect combination of academics and athletics.” It was only last summer that Nawrocki relocated from Florida to East Islip. Having trained since age nine, she had been a top swimmer at Trinity Preparatory School in Winter Park, Fla. At first she had difficulty with the transition to life on Long Island, but that soon changed. “I was so graciously welcomed,” she said, “and now I feel like a part of the community, both here and with my swim team.” Before long, Nawrocki had gained attention for her superb swimming skills (she competed in the National Club Swimming Association Junior Nationals in Orlando, Fla. in March and regularly trains with the Long Island Aquatic Club in Eisenhower Park) as well as her scholarly acumen and strength of character. She was a member of this year’s East Islip High School Academic Team and has received a Presidential Award for her community service. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5838 Sun, 20 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Richard Freilich, the culinary arts program director at Suffolk County Community College’s Culinary Arts Center in Riverhead, recently visited the classroom of teacher Kelly Schwender, who runs East Islip High School’s Food & Nutrition and Gourmet Foods programs. Freilich assisted in baking some delicious pretzels while making the students aware of SCCC’s new culinary study programs. Offered in conjunction with SUNY Delhi, the programs offer affordable associate or BBA degrees in culinary arts, with options to focus on baking and pastry arts, restaurant management and hotel and resort management. SCCC’s Culinary Arts Center sponsored a high school student chef competition this year, awarding a scholarship and book stipend as a grand prize. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5839 Sun, 20 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT HeartBeet Cafe visited John F. Kennedy Elementary School in East Islip this spring to help teach students about the importance of drinking water and avoiding sugary drinks, especially when exercising. Sponsored by the JFK PTA, HeartBeet used a comic strip and two amusing characters called Heart and Beet to convey a simple, basic nutritional message about healthy eating habits. Students in all of JFK’s grade levels enjoyed the HeartBeet presentation during their lunch periods, and many were able to interact with presenter Jen Ross to explain which exercise or sport they liked to participate in most. After learning about the importance of water, the benefits of avoiding sugary beverages, and how to add fruit to water for extra flavor, each child was provided with a bottle of Hint unsweetened essence water to sample, in flavors such as watermelon, strawberry kiwi, and blackberry. Containing no artificial flavors, colors or sweeteners, no preservatives or sugar and zero calories, Hint proved a big hit with the JFK grade-schoolers. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5840 Sun, 20 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Photos by MTM Photography http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=6001 Sun, 20 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Over 100 student-musicians from John F. Kennedy Elementary School in East Islip participated in a well-attended concert on May 14, held in the East Islip High School auditorium. Directed by Angela Fetcho, JFK’s beginner orchestra performed American classics like “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” and “Bile 'Em Cabbage Down,” while the advanced orchestra followed with rousing renditions of pieces by Mark Williams (“Fancy Fiddles”), Leopold Mozart (“Happy Dance”) and Rob Grice (“Defender of Time”). The latter tune featured percussionist John Leddy. Both orchestras were accompanied by teacher Jaime DeMaria on piano. Later in the program, the beginner and advanced bands – both directed by Ronald Fox – performed a number of crowd-pleasing tunes. The beginner band reprised “Bile 'Em Cabbage Down” and added Johann Strauss Jr.’s “Southern Roses” and Czech folk song “Stodola Pumpa.” An arrangement of Katy Perry's anthemic “Firework” was a highlight of the advanced band’s performance, along with “First Suite for Military Band” by Gustav Holst and the main theme from “Star Wars” by John Williams. Singing under the direction of Kathy Carter and Katelyn Keating, the JFK Elementary chorus closed out the evening with dazzling renditions of “Red River Dances,” “America of Thee I Sing,” “Ah, Poor Bird” and lastly George Mysels’ “Buy Me Chocolate,” earning the students a well-deserved ovation. East Islip Director of Art and Music Stephen Guarino thanked the community members in attendance for their continued support of the fine music programs offered districtwide, and JFK Principal Aileen O'Rourke praised the parents on hand for providing students with a welcoming practice environment in their homes. Photos by Eric Holden http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5819 Thu, 17 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT Fourth-grade students at Timber Point Elementary are currently learning about the life and music of classical composer Ludwig van Beethoven. As part of their lesson with music teacher Patricia Derosa-Padden, they learned to play Beethoven's Ninth Symphony in two parts on the xylophone. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5820 Thu, 17 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT In the wake of a stern rejection of the proposed budget by East Islip voters, the Board of Education has begun the process of recalibrating a proposed budget with a clear understanding of taxpayer sentiment in anticipation of the June 19 revote. “I think it is obvious that East Islip suffered the worst defeat of a proposed budget of any district on Long Island, and perhaps the state,” said Board of Education President Glenn Reed. “The community’s message is crystal clear – we have had enough, don’t bring us a tax levy increase that exceeds the tax cap. By inference this message also tells us to do our best to minimize the impact of the cuts we will have to make.” The budget not only fell short of the 60 percent supermajority that is required for proposed budgets that exceed the tax cap, it also failed to garner even a simple majority. Only three school districts on Long Island aside from East Islip failed to garner a simple majority: Oysterponds and Tuckahoe, two very small East End elementary school districts, and Center Moriches, which was attempting to exceed its tax cap. East Islip had 527 fewer “yes” voters than “no” voters, which was the largest negative spread of any district on Long Island. Ten of the 17 districts attempting to exceed the cap were successful. Of the seven that failed, five achieved simple majorities – some of them substantial – but fell short of 60 percent. Reed noted that the voting process worked as it should have. “We told voters that control was in their hands, because that is what the tax cap legislation provides, and that we were not going to make critical reductions in programs without hearing from the community,” he said. “Their reaction, by all measures, was unequivocal. I don’t think there is anything about the election results left up in the air.” With clarity on the proposed tax increase no longer an issue, the Board of Education has indicated that it must react in accordance with the wishes of voters. To bring back a revised budget at the tax cap (3.23 percent), the Board must reduce spending by approximately $1.7 million. What that entails is a very difficult process, since roughly 80 percent of the budget supports staff and direct student programs. “In late January we provided the community with a very detailed description of just how difficult the cuts would be, which is why I believe the Board gave voters the opportunity to vote rather than making the cuts in a unilateral fashion,” said Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello. “But the community was clear in not wanting to support the proposed budget and associated tax levy, thus we will be in the unfortunate position of talking about the scope of staff and program reductions in order to deliver a new proposed budget for consideration.” Previous discussions on this topic centered on the reduction of seven kindergarten teachers and one teaching assistant in order to transition from a full-day to a half-day kindergarten program; elimination of almost eight music teachers; and elimination of a number of general education teachers to move from a nine-period to eight-period day at the middle school and high school. Total prospective staff reductions could include at least 23 positions. Other potential reductions include the entire athletics program and most extracurricular activities. “We exist as a school district to provide programs and services to students, so to be in this position is obviously not what we want,” said Finello. “But we must respect the taxpayers of the community by bringing them a proposed budget that they will support.” In public meetings leading up to the adoption of the proposed budget, community members asked whether employee contracts could be modified in order to avoid staff and program reductions. “As we have recently seen in a number of other districts, substantial changes to employee contracts are being agreed to in order to preserve programs for students and jobs for teachers and other district personnel,” said Reed. “It is obviously the preferred solution, and in general, I would say that it is really the only alternative to the significant reductions we would otherwise have to make. However, we cannot do so at the expense of mortgaging our future.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5794 Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Griffin Wylie, a second-grade student in Melissa Love's class at Connetquot Elementary School, won a Town of Islip award for outstanding achievement in mathematics. Connetquot Principal Deborah Smith, Love and Griffin’s parents attended the May 17 ceremony to support and congratulate him for winning this prestigious student achievement award. “Griffin is a bright young man who is very talented in many areas, mathematics being a particular strength,” said Love. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5796 Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Ruth C. Kinney Elementary School held its annual Art Show this week, curated by teacher Dana Belfiore. Each student at RCK was represented by at least one piece of artwork, and the school’s fifth-graders gave demonstrations of their quilling project in the lobby during the show. One of the art show’s highlights was a “kindergarten cave,” which Belfiore constructed using students’ evocative cave drawings. “The cave was a huge hit and the kids were very excited to be able to see it and experience an interactive art display,” said Belfiore. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5798 Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Four seniors from East Islip High School's standout girls varsity lacrosse team have signed National Letters of Intent to play for three different colleges. Goalie Krista Ancona chose Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, N.Y., where she plans to study either education or communications while playing for the Mavericks. The senior, who has been playing lacrosse since age five, based her selection on three observations. "Mercy has a good campus, I like the people there and the coach is really nice," she explained. St. Thomas Aquinas College in upstate Rockland County will be the destination for Victoria Gregson, who will major in forensic science. The fact that Aquinas offered her field of study was a major factor in her choice of the Spartans. "I loved it there, it's beautiful," said the senior, who plays attack and has been active in lacrosse since fifth grade. Both Jacqueline Niciforo and Lisa Olen signed with local university LIU Post's Division II lacrosse program. "I liked the campus, it's a nice size," said Olen, a midfielder who has been playing since age five. She is still undecided in regards to a major, but already knows she's going to be playing for the first time on the same Pioneers team as her older sister Ashley, an East Islip all-county lacrosse player and member of the Class of 2008. "That's going to be really exciting," said Lisa. Niciforo is also undecided on a major, but is looking forward to campus life at Post, not far from East Islip. "I wanted to stay home and be away at the same time," the midfielder said. She also played varsity basketball at EI. Like Olen, she has an older sister at Post. Alexa Niciforo, who played lacrosse for East Islip and graduated in 2010, is a member of the university's soccer team and was named to the NSCAA All-East Region Second Team this season. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5790 Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT It was back to the Roaring Twenties for the eighth-graders in Gloria Cerrito’s social studies class when she transformed their East Islip Middle School classroom into a “speakeasy” for a day. “I wanted students to get a feel for the era by experiencing the music, foods, fads and influential people of the time period,” she explained. Before the event, students chose names out of a hat, picking actors, writers, poets, artists and other famous individuals who had an impact on American society. The students researched their selections – F. Scott Fitzgerald, Rudolph Valentino, Clara Bow, Alice Paul, Al Capone, Babe Ruth and John Scopes, among others – and then attended the Speakeasy dressed as their famous person, replete with props. Mingling with the other “guests,” they filled out conversation cards with information about the celebrity guests while sampling some of the popular snacks of the ’20s like pineapple upside-down cake, Twizzlers, potato chips and ginger ale. Cerrito also introduced the students to fun fads of the period, including yo-yoing and Charleston dance contests. “I think it was a successful day,” Cerrito said. “The students were very engaged in the project and realized the impact of the people who lived in the ’20s – not only on that era but also on today's society. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5792 Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Precociously talented theater students from Ruth C. Kinney Elementary’s third, fourth and fifth grades knocked the socks of of more than one audience of parents, staff and fellow students during their May 10 and 11 performances of “Annie Jr.” Over 50 RCK students participated in the smash musical, which they had prepared for since January with the encouragement of a tireless team of volunteers. Set in 1933, the story is an adaption of the famous 1977 Broadway musical “Annie,” which won the Tony Award for Best Musical. With music by Charles Strouse, lyrics by Martin Charnin and book by Thomas Meehan, the original Broadway production was itself adapted from the comic strip “Little Orphan Annie” created by Harold Gray in 1924. Directed by Dennis Clancy with assistance from Laurie Mehner, RCK’s “Annie Jr.” starred Imma Esposito in the title role as the plucky 11-year-old orphan, with the principal cast also including Robert Arcidiacono as Rooster Hannigan, Miranda Barretto as Annette, Sarah Blumberg and Jessica Califano as Dog Catchers, Joseph Canas as Louis Howe, Felice Carone as Drake, Alle Christiansen as Lt. Ward, Mike Colon as President Roosevelt, Kerry Comer as the Apple Seller, Shannon Dodenhoff as Miss Hannigan, Elena Esposito as Molly, Mikayla Henderson as Kate, Randi Jepson as Mrs. Greer, Julianna Longo as the Usherette, Nicolina Marchisello as Pepper, Justin Martinez as Oliver Warbucks, Olivia Pena as Lily St. Regis, Jennifer Profera as Mrs. Pugh, Christina Rooney as Star-to-Be, Alexa Sortino as Cecille, Cassidy Stephen as Duffy, Sophia Stryjewski as Grace Farrell, Ryan Stutzenstein as Bundles McCloskey, Marie Tohill as July, Joelle Tomossone as Tessie, Katie Waldron as Bertha Healy and “Clancy” as Annie’s dog Sandy. Additional onstage cast members included Tarynn Boesch, Cynthia Cooke, Hannah Feeney, Sofia Frigiola, Caroline Kelly, Nicole LaPort, Juliana Marcano, Meaghan McNulty, Alexa Munoz, Gabriella Pannullo, Sarah Piccinini, Andie Santacroce, Lilly Scholl, Joshua Terhune, Victoria Tong and Emma Vecchio as orphans, city people and musicians. Music teacher Margaret Strzelecka acted as musical coach to the soloists. The dedicated ensemble of grade-school thespians did a remarkable job singing the musical’s beloved classics like “Tomorrow” and “It's the Hard-Knock Life,” enhanced by wireless sound equipment handled by John Fuchs and provided by Stephen Guarino, the East Islip School District’s art and music director. Dana Belfiore and her set design team of students created, assembled and painted all of the sets. The props, costumes and scenery flats were donated by the parents, teachers and staff of RCK. In lieu of charging admission to the musical, RCK Principal Danielle Naccarato and her staff asked parents to support fundraising efforts to benefit Winthrop-University Hospital’s Cancer Center for Kids and the William Randolph Hearst Burn Center at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, organizations that have provided lifesaving measures to two members of the RCK community. The entire proceeds of the “Annie Jr.” performances will be donated equally between those two organizations. Photos by Greg Fasolino, Dureen Panero and Glenn Reed. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5770 Tue, 15 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District's proposed 2012-13 school budget failed to garner the necessary 60 percent majority in the May 15 budget vote. The total number of voters was 5,617, with 3,072 voting against the proposed budget and 2,545 voting to approve. “The defeat of the budget is extremely disappointing,” said Board of Education President Glenn Reed. “It creates a situation in which we may be left with having to make painful, widespread reductions in staffing and programs, pending dialogue between the Board and community over the next two weeks. As a community, we must do all we can to limit this impact to our students.” Should the Board choose to hold a second budget vote, it would take place on June 19, 2012. In other voting news, the race for the seats of Board trustees Louis F. Raffone and Joseph G. Sargent ended with the re-election of incumbent Raffone and a loss for Sargent to challenger Philip Montuori. The final vote totals were 2,579 for Raffone to 2,044 for challenger Robert Dell’Isola and 3,079 for Montuori to 1,623 for Sargent. A regular monthly Board of Education meeting was held earlier in the evening. Superintendent of Schools John J. Finello made several announcements, including a pending visit from U.S. Marine Corps helicopters on May 29, an update on the APPR plan, an upcoming 9/11 Memorial dedication on May 28 at the East Islip Public Library and recognition of the new community-funded Connetquot Elementary playground. Finello also mentioned the District’s long-range planning committee, which will be formalized this summer to examine the District’s financial situation, condition of the facilities, technology needs and demographic studies. The retirement of John F. Kennedy Elementary clerk typist Linda Testino was also announced before the Board meeting was adjourned just prior to 9 p.m. Testino had joined the District in 1989 at Ruth C. Kinney Elementary. She later worked as a stenographer in the high school’s guidance office before joining the JFK staff. At 10:05 p.m., the Board members and District administrators re-entered the board room to announce that the proposed budget had not passed. The next Board of Education regular monthly meeting will take place on June 14, 2012 at 8 p.m. in the District board room. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5761 Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Timber Point Elementary School held its annual Museum Walk on May 15, including a fifth-grade art show hosted by teacher Christina Spera, complete with students demonstrating art techniques. Several fifth-grade band students performed two of their upcoming Spring Concert selections, “March for Megan” and “Gonna Fly Now (Theme from Rocky).” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5762 Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT BASEBALL East Islip beat Smithtown East 6-3 on May 8, with Ken Rotunno going 2-for-3 with a 2-run homer. Winning pitcher John Dondero threw a complete game with 12 strikeouts (allowing only 3 runs) while going 2-for-3 with an RBI. Rotunno was on the losing end when Smithtown East got revenge on May 10, blanking EI 3-0. In the third game of this series on May 11, EI lost 6-3 with Dave Palmer on the mound as Smithtown East clinched the League III title. BOYS LACROSSE Connetquot edged East Islip on May 8, winning 7-6 despite big saves from goalies Sean Sconone (6 saves) and Robert Rohan (5 saves). EI scorers were Tyler Rigo (4 goals, 1 assist), Joe Modica (1 goal) and Sean Spruyt (1 goal). East Islip came out on top on May 10, beating Patchogue-Medford 6-3 behind freshman Sconone’s 13 saves. Rigo had a hat trick and added 2 assists. Other EI scorers were Robert Sconone (1 goal, 1 assist), Shawn Cummings (1 goal), Spruyt (1 goal), Ross Vandenburg (1 assist) and Modica (1 assist). BOYS TENNIS The Division II Individual Championships were held on May 7 at East Islip. In the singles finals, No. 1 Tyler Hoffman (Sayville) defeated No. 2 Nick Bauer (East Islip) 6-2, 6-1. In the doubles consolation, No. 5 Jared Sossin and Greg Nolan (West Islip) beat No. 3 Terrence Nixdorf and Ryan Hegarty (East Islip) 7-5, 1-6, 6-3. BOYS TRACK AND FIELD The East Islip boys track and field team had an excellent showing at the 67th annual Suffolk County Relay Meet held at Bayport-Blue Point High School on May 12, earning seven school-record relay performances and 16 medals for the day. Seniors Dave Nappi and Joe Braccioforte won first place in the 2x pole vault (23'-6"). In the 2x triple jump, senior Ryan Smith and freshman Zach Acocella placed fouth (79'-0.5"). Junior Andrew Sharkey and freshman Tom Koppelman came in sixth (2:03.39) in the 2x400-meter intermediate hurdles. In the 4x1600-meter relay, seniors Jack Smith and Raymond O'Connor and juniors Brian Smith and Shane Martensen came in fifth place (19:10.04). Seniors Nicardo Whyte, Erik Corral and Nick Croce and sophomore Evan Barnes came in seventh (1:40.99) in the sprint medley relay. In the 4x100-meter relay, seniors Jerel Williams, Smith and Whyte and junior Andre Deegan earned second place (44.46). The 4x400-meter relay ended with Williams, Corral, Sharkey and Acocella also fininishing in second (3:28.41). “We went to the meet with high expectations for ourselves,” said coach James Connell. “The team has been performing well all season long. We know we're a really good team this year, but I could have never imagined a day in which we would take down seven school records. I couldn't have been more proud of my team .” GIRLS GOLF East Islip’s girls golf team shut out West Babylon 9-0 on May 7 at the Timberpoint White Course. Junior Kendall Allmendinger shot a personal-low best of 44, 8 strokes over par, and senior Kim Schmidt shot a 46. The team score for the day was an impressive 250, which bested West Babylon by 90 shots. The girls fell to League II leaders Sayville on May 10, losing 7-2. The team score was 21 strokes off Sayville's total of 248. On May 11, EI beat second-place Bayport-Blue Point by an 8-1 score. Sophomore Cathy Marku shot a 51 in the number five spot. “An excellent effort – the girls demonstrated a solid team effort with all players contributing to the win,” said coach Judith Fischer. The team qualified for the Suffolk County tournament for the fifth straight year. GIRLS VARSITY LACROSSE East Islip demolished Smithtown East 19-9 on May 8, with Nicole Levy exploding for 7 goals (she added 3 assists as well). Other EI scorers were: Jackie Niciforo (4 goals,1 assist), Shannon Cummings ( 3 goals, 1 assist), Lisa Olen (3 goals), Elizabeth Vetter (1 goal, 1 assist), Carlee Ancona (1 goal, 2 assists) and Jackie Clyne (1 assist). In goal, Krista Ancona made 2 saves and Clyne made 1. EI lost to Bay Shore on May 11, despite 5 saves from Lee-Ann Salim and 4 by Krista Ancona. Scorers were Victoria Gregson (3 goals, 1 assist), Carlee Ancona (1 goal, 1 assist), Levy (1 goal, 1 assist), Cummings (1 goal, 1 assist), Vetter (1 assist) and Olen (1 assist). GIRLS MIDDLE SCHOOL LACROSSE The girls middle school lacrosse team beat Sayville 13-6 on May 8. Taylor Lungrin scored 5 goals. Rachel Florenz, Veronica Saager and Kamryn Pasha netted 2 goals each, while Sara Wright and Amanda Rovalino each scored a goal. “The team worked well together, dominating each quarter of the game,” said coach Melissa Love. EI won again on May 10, defeating Oregon 14-4. EI scorers were Samantha Levey (2 goals), Lungrin (2 goals), Wright (2 goals), Florenz (1 goal), Sarah Ianella (1 goal), Molly O'Neill (1 goal), Taylor Paglino (1 goal), Pasha (1 goal), Angelina Perrone (1 goal), Rovalino (1 goal) and Saager (1 goal). “Great job by the entire team and another amazing game,” said Love. GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD In a League IV event, East Islip’s girls track and field team lost 93-57 to Riverhead on May 10. SOFTBALL Centereach beat East Islip’s softball squad on May 10, winning 3-1. Courtney Blake was the losing pitcher and hit EI’s sole home run. On May 11 against Smithtown West, Blake went 3-for-4 and threw a 2-hitter with 7 strikeouts. Lindsey Zenk went 2-for-4 with a double and triple. In a non-league game, EI and Blake vanquished Commack 4-1 on May 12. Alexa Martone finished 2-3 with one RBI. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5764 Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Connetquot Elementary School held its annual Museum Walk on May 15. The school was decorated with a huge art exhibit curated by teacher Elizabeth Sullivan, including an elaborate "owl tree." http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5767 Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Artist of the Week for May 14, 2012: First-grader Robert Fioresi of John F. Kennedy Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5721 Mon, 14 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School Technology Club and adviser Hal Kench recently teamed up with Cablevision’s MSG Varsity program to showcase East Islip School District events. MSG Varsity is a first-of-its-kind initiative comprised of a full-time television network (viewable only via Cablevision at channel 614), a comprehensive online destination and a groundbreaking interactive service dedicated to high school sports, academics and activities throughout the tri-state area. “Contrary to popular belief, MSG Varsity doesn’t just want sporting events covered, they are interested in all school-related activities,” Kench explained. To get the program started in East Islip, MSG Varsity generously provided a high-definition video camera, still camera, assorted microphones and seed money to purchase two iMac computers for video editing. To date, EI students have submitted 36 videos, 45 photo galleries, and 74 articles to the East Islip page on MSG Varsity. The school’s Technology Club is on track to receive another $2,000 equipment grant from MSG Varsity in September 2012 as well as $1,000 in scholarships for graduating seniors. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5727 Mon, 14 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students at Connetquot Elementary School didn’t just celebrate Earth Day – they expanded the environmentally conscious event into an entire Earth Week, recycling cans and bottles for charity and re-using and re-purposing materials to create sets and scenery for the second-grade musical. Every morning from May 1-4, students from each of the fourth-grade classes and Connetquot musical director Eileen Egbert serenaded the school with a song appropriate for Earth Week. On Tuesday, Heather Johnson's class performed “The Garden Song.” On Wednesday, Heather Degen's class took the spotlight with “This Pretty Planet.” Susan Hunter, Shawnette Costarelli and Frank Esposito’s students sang on Thursday, tackling “Earth Day” by composer Jill Gallina. The final performance on Friday came from Elizabeth Vann, Melinda Safrany and Joseph Esposito’s class, as they belted out a rousing medley of “The 3 R's of Recycling” and “This Pretty Planet.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5729 Mon, 14 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip High School SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) club will hold a car wash on Saturday, May 19 on the corner of Carleton Avenue and Union Boulevard in East Islip. All proceeds will be used to fund scholarships. SADD's Seatbelt Check event, originally scheduled for May 16, has been canceled due to weather, and will be instead held on May 23, starting at 7 a.m. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5731 Mon, 14 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Voting on the East Islip School District's proposed 2012-13 school budget will take place today, Tuesday, May 15 from 6 a.m. through 9 p.m. At 8 p.m. this evening, the East Islip Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting in the District Office boardroom. For more information on the 2012-13 proposed budget and voting information, please view the District's current budget newsletter, The Beacon of Hope. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5670 Mon, 14 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The cast of East Islip High School's December 2011 production of "Our Town" has been nominated for a Teeny Award for Best Ensemble. Additionally, two EI actors were honored individually: Courtney Kenyon (Emily Webb) was nominated for Best Leading Female in a Drama/Comedy and Jonathan Gutierrez (George Gibbs) was nominated for Best leading Male in a Drama/Comedy. Established a decade by the East End Arts Council, the Teeny Awards is theIslip Arts Council's student arts recognition program, comparable to the Tony Awards. The Teeny Awards mission is to celebrate talented theater students in the Town of Islip. The Teeny Awards ceremony will be held on June 12, 2012 at the CM Performing Arts Center in Oakdale at 7 p.m. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5687 Sun, 13 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT “I’ve wanted to be a veterinarian since I was five,” said East Islip High School junior Matt Brown. The ambitious AP and honors student will get the chance to learn how to make his dream come true this summer. Brown is one of only 80 high schoolers from around the world who have been accepted into Cornell University’s prestigious pre-veterinary science summer program. Cornell’s College of Veterinary Medicine is consistently ranked as America’s best veterinary school. The three-week "Veterinary Medicine: Small Animal Practice" course at Cornell Summer College in Ithaca, N.Y. will provide Brown with a formal, academic introduction to veterinary medicine, and earn him three college credits. Mornings will feature lectures on the basic form and function of the anatomy and physiology of cats, dogs and other domestic animals, as well as common situational topics like spaying, neutering and emergencies. In the afternoons, Brown and the other pre-vet students will gain hands-on experience of diagnosis and treatment through laboratory exercises. Brown is well aware of just how competitive veterinary science is, even compared to the study of human medicine. Few colleges offer veterinary programs, so the demand is high, and veterinary students are required to learn about and familiarize themselves with the anatomy and medical issues of a variety of animal species. “I’m really excited to study at one of the best veterinary schools in the nation,” said Brown, who volunteers at the East Islip Animal Hospital in his spare time. “I am very interested in potentially attending Cornell for undergraduate and even vet school.” Summer school at Cornell is only one of Brown’s many activities he pursues to enrich his studies and his life. An EI varsity wrestler and Eagle Scout with local Troop 205, he also plays bagpipes with the Roisin Dubh Irish Pipe Band of AOH Division 7 and has logged over 600 hours of community service. As a senior in the 2012-2013 school year, he will be participating in East Islip High School’s new Medical and Health Technologies Career Academy. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5709 Sun, 13 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School teachers Shannon Berhoff and Heather Degen do such a terrific job in their shared “Green Movement” course, they inspire others to go out and do something about pollution. Even other educators find their message compelling enough to inspire action. On a recent Saturday, a volunteer group of East Islip teachers gathered at East Islip Town Beach, clad in yellow jackets and rubber gloves. Walking the beach, they gathered as much garbage as they could, filling 15 trash bags full of refuse. One of the participating East Islip teachers, Greg Kguloian, found it an eye-opening experience. “As I drove home,” he said. “I saw all the trash on the side of the road. I pulled over into a parking lot and filled a small plastic bag I saw stuck in a hedge. When that bag was full of other trash I found nearby, I drove it to the next parking lot where there was a garbage can. That one act may not have done a great deal of good, but it sowed the seed of an idea. What if I were to take a plastic bag and just clean up one little area along my commute each day after work? I know it won’t make much of a real difference, but it is a positive. We teachers always want our kids to learn what is right in this world, and we are also expected to lead by example. Shannon and Heather have helped me to think up new ways to pass on their green message.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5711 Sun, 13 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT After studying the African nation of Zambia in their art and music classrooms, third-grade students at Timber Point Elementary School performed an African recorder song and traditional dance, “Che Che Koolay,” at the school’s auditorium on May 4. During the performance, attended by parents and younger students, the third-graders wore traditional Zambian masks made out of various materials. They had constructed the masks during art class, where they also created artwork for the set design and bulletin board. Each student also recited interesting facts about Zambia such as its government and geography. Photos by Christina Spera http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5713 Sun, 13 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Check out MSG Varsity's student-produced interviews with the East Islip boys varsity lacrosse team: Joe Modica and Robert Sconone Tyler Rigo Coach Jason Lavey Also available for viewing on MSG Varsity are similar student-produced interviews with members of the East Islip boys varsity tennis team: Franklin Artusa Nick Bauer Hunter Ingram Terrance Nixdorf http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5682 Sat, 12 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT In preparing the school budget for the 2012-2013 school year, the East Islip School District was able to reduce transportation costs by eliminating three buses. This elimination of the buses made it necessary to change the elementary school hours. Beginning in September 2012, the school hours for all of of East Islip's elementary students (kindergarten through Grade 5) will be 9:35 a.m. to 3:35 p.m. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5630 Thu, 10 May 2012 12:00:00 GMT A dozen determined members of the East Islip High School girls varsity lacrosse team – Carlee Ancona, Krista Ancona, Jessica Carere, Shannon Cummings, Tori Gregson, Arianna Kreusch, Nicole Levy, Lisa Olen, Lindsey Parker, Grace Revello, Lee Anne Salim and Elizabeth Vetter – volunteered to run a water station at the EJ Autism Foundation's sixth annual Jigsaw 4 Mile Run/Walk for Autism on April 22. Close to 100 volunteer community members helped run the event, which was organized by East Islip resident and EJ Autism founder Bea Huste-Petersen, who has two sons with autism. All proceeds will be used to support programs on Long Island that work with children diagnosed with autism. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5672 Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT A new community-funded, barrier-free playground has risen at Connetquot Elementary, thanks to the diligent efforts of the Connetquot Playground Committee and a remarkable collective outpouring of generosity in the form of donations from residents. Unlike its predecessor, the new playground is fully accessible for handicapped students. The committee raised a total of $47,000, and because the playground was wholly funded through donations and not funded by the school district, the costs of purchase and installation do not impact the school budget or the district’s tax levy. The playground’s story began several years ago, when a request for new swings by parents Monique Motto and Cindy Stauber led then-Principal Lisa Belz (now the head of Timber Point Elementary) to suggest a playground and form the Connetquot Playground Committee. Residents Rob and Eleen Kazcinsky, integral members of the playground committee, had previously brought to light the need for handicap-accessible structures in the community. Fundraising began in February 2010, after a NYSIR (New York Schools Insurance Reciprocal) inspector’s report declared that the old playground at Connetquot had reached the end of its useable life. In a related but separate fundraising effort, new swings (with a handicap-accessible swing) were installed in the spring of 2010, funded in part by family contributions as well as a $5,000 donation from the For the Kids Foundation (FTK) of East Islip. With the new playground designed to be “inclusive” and handicapped-accessible, East Islip's SEPTA (Special Education Parent Teacher Association) was naturally involved, providing continuous support for the next phase of the project. SEPTA presented a $2,500 check last October and urged Connetquot community members to work together on the playground effort. Dorothy Bauer, the grandmother of Connetquot fourth-grader Ryan Bauer, entered a Pathmark/Coca-Cola Sweepstakes contest asking participants to name a playground that was undergoing construction. Bauer mentioned Connetquot and won a $5,000 donation for the playground project, adding to substantial other direct donations such as $5,000 from the EJ Autism Foundation, $1,000 from Ray the Plumber of East Islip, $750 from Connetquot’s Class of 2010 and numerous other donations from local businesses such as ShopRite Supermarkets and the Shaolin Self Defense Center of East Islip. Community members, staff and students all participated in a tremendous variety of fundraising activities for the playground, such as a Box Top clipping, dinner at the Irish Coffee Pub, an adult night at Fatty McGee’s, water bottle recycling, a Valentine’s Day sale, car washes, an Applebee’s breakfast, plant and flower sales, a petting zoo, a bike raffle, yard sales and clothing drives. The playground’s contractor, Tony Barbato of Holbrook-based Louis Barbato Landscaping, is an East Islip resident whose youngest son attended Connetquot Elementary School. Barbato donated a great deal of time to remove the old playground and install the new one. “I was so impressed with his commitment to the children of East Islip,” said Connetquot Principal Deborah Smith, whose tenure at the school has ensured the completion of the project. Connetquot Playground Committee members noted that this is only the first part of the Connetquot playground project. “We are continuing to fundraise and donations are always welcome,” said one committee member. “We installed the new playground in a two-year time frame, so think of what we can do if more people are involved.” A Connetquot playground dedication ceremony will be scheduled prior to the end of the 2011-2012 school year. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5673 Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Elizabeth Keihm, executive director of acclaimed organic growers Homecoming Farm, paid a recent visit to home and career skills teacher Rena Costello's classroom at East Islip Middle School to talk about what it means to be an organic farmer, and explain the benefits of eating locally and supporting local farms. Keihm discussed such concepts as companion planting, intensive farming, natural insect pest control, the use of humus and the Native American tradition of the growing the “three sisters” (corn, beans and squash). She also provided an interesting array of vegetables for the students to examine, including unusually colorful heirloom vegetables. Now in its 16th season as a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) organization, Homecoming grows more than 100 different vegetables on the Amityville property of the Sisters of St. Dominic. The popular CSA idea enables consumers to buy local, seasonal food directly from a farmer, purchasing a “share” and receiving a weekly box or basket of seasonal produce during the farming season. Homecoming has been certified as organic by the Northeast Organic Farming Association of New York (NOFA-NY), and continues to pursue its goal of helping students and other local groups “grow as responsible members of the universe through projects and programs which promote mutually enhancing human/earth relationships.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5669 Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Notch another win for East Islip High School in the national Ford Drive One 4 UR School Video Competition, as the school's video came in first in a second-round May 9 head-to-head contest against another school. East Islip received 5,173 views compared to 2,264 for the competing school. EI stands to win as much as $10,000 to help support the Career Academy programs at the high school. East Islip Guidance Director Israel Malinowitzer will announce details on the third round soon. In the meantime, be sure to attend this Saturday's Drive One 4 UR School fundraiser. The May 12 event will be held at the high school’s parking lot and runs from 9 a.m. through 1:30 p.m. For every person (only one person per household) that test-drives one of the brand-new Ford vehicles on display, Ford Motor Company will donate $20 to East Islip’s Career Academies. There is no charge to test-drive a Ford car, but participants must be 18 years or older and possess a valid driver’s license. The Career Academies will host a barbecue luncheon during the event, and the high school's National Honor Society will host a car wash in the parking lot. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5644 Wed, 09 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT With friends and family present, East Islip High School’s Class of 2014 revived an old tradition on May 9, holding a class ring ceremony sponsored by Jostens ring company and Keith Murphy. The event, which took place at the District Office first-floor cafeteria, included a musical ensemble and dessert reception. On hand to present the school rings were Assistant Principal Kevin Brown, class advisors Kate Boucher and Mary Ann Coughlin and Class of 2014 officers Matt Cowdell, Thea Tsolomitis and Rachel Lopiccolo. In addition to receiving their rings, the sophomores also were given hoodies emblazoned with the Class of 2014 logo. “East Islip High School had not had a ring ceremony in over 15 years and we wanted to help bring this tradition back to EI,” Boucher said. “Congratulations to all recipients and best of luck on the second half of your journey through East Islip High School,” added Coughlin. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5648 Wed, 09 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT A theater troupe from the CM Performing Arts Center in Oakdale visited Ruth C. Kinney Elementary on May 9, presenting their show, “Operation: Save the Environment.” This performance coincided with the school's Earth Day celebration, discussing air pollution, recycling and helping to save animal environments. RCK’s students were entertained by familiar characters like Disney Channel’s Phineas and Ferb and Sesame Street’s Oscar the Grouch, educating them on how to make the world a better, cleaner place and encouraging them to get up and dance. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5650 Wed, 09 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School golfer Kim Schmidt will be teeing up for the State University of New York at Albany (also known as UAlbany) next season. The senior recently signed a National Letter of Intent to play golf for the upstate school, which was founded in 1844. Schmidt is looking forward to being a part of legendary head coach Richard "Doc" Sauers’ successful Great Danes golf program in Albany. “Coach Sauers is great,” she said about the man who was one of the winningest coaches in college basketball history before taking over the UAlbany women’s golf team nine seasons ago. A standout on the large EI varsity squad of 16 players, Schmidt posted a team-low score of 42 this season for East Islip. She has been playing golf since she was seven years old. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5653 Wed, 09 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT As part of a community service project, East Islip Middle School and the East Islip/Dowling School Business Partnership teamed up to design and build a giant, self-supporting structure made entirely of canned food. During the past year, middle school students, staff, and community members along with Amy’s Organic Soups collected and donated canned goods. The cans were then used to create the image of a lighthouse with the theme of “Hope to Wipe Out Hunger.” The structure consists of 924 items: 439 cans of beans, 275 cans of tuna, 90 cans of tomatoes, 43 cans of coffee, 39 cans of crabmeat, 30 cans of Amy’s Organic Soup and eight water bottles. The “Hope to Wipe Out Hunger” structure will be on display in the middle school for two weeks. After it is deconstructed, all food will be donated to the local food pantry, Long Island Cares – The Harry Chapin Food Bank. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5635 Tue, 08 May 2012 01:00:00 GMT The East Islip Board of Education held a brief Budget Hearing on May 8 in the District Office boardroom, reviewing summaries of budget information as well as the history of the 2012-13 budget process. Assistant Superintendent for Business Carl Fraser noted that under New York State law, the budget adopted by the Board on April 19 cannot be changed prior to the May 15 budget vote. The Six-Day Budget Notice, mentioned during this hearing, is now viewable to the public. The next regular monthly Board of Education meeting will take place at 8 p.m. on May 15, the day the budget is voted on. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5634 Tue, 08 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The “PROMinent Proposals” articleby Beth Whitehouse in the May 9 issue of Newsday (pages B8-B10) features two very charming and heartwarming prom invitation stories from East Islip High School: “Passing the Test” and “Hold the Onions.” The web version can be found here. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5621 Tue, 08 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT A vibrant variety of performing talent was on display at the seventh annual East Islip High School Talent Show, presented on April 25 by the East Islip High School Key Club and the club’s advisers Victor Davis and Daniel Falkman. Hosted by Brandon Missig and Danny Casey, this year’s show served not only to showcase the school's creativity but to act as a fundraiser to benefit one of the school’s students who is battling cancer. Numerous bands provided sonic highlights, including The Dudes (with Steve Lorefice, Peter McDermott and Mike DiSanto), Pete’s Band (with Peter and Matt McDermott and Nick Tomanelli), Sharkey (with Scott Cole, Boris Darakchiev, Trevor Mack and Dylan Polis) and The Janover Project. Ashes in the Sky, featuring James Javino, were the night’s closing band. “They really rocked the show,” noted Davis. In the evening’s most amusing moment, Basso, Dalton Jabs and Brandon Rowlinson performed a lip-synched dance routine to the Lady Gaga tune, “Poker Face.” On a more serious note, vocalist Savannah Perez was accompanied by Tom Bauer on guitar. Nationally recognized baton twirler Michelle Arp gave a stunning performance, twirling her baton and wowing the crowd. The diverse range of acts presented also included a duet by Ali Konnerth and Ethan Schaber, a Paul Brett solo guitar performance, Brandi Parker and Samantha Connolly’s displays of vocal ability and impressive dance routines by Krista DeRosa, Jackie DeRosa and Kristen Papillo. “Overall, this Talent Show was another complete success,” said Davis. “We helped raise in excess of $1,100 for a local East Islip family, which is what the Key Club and the East Islip community are all about.” Photos by Glenn Reed. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5629 Tue, 08 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Artist of the Week for May 7, 2012: Fifth-grader Noelle Moritz of Timber Point Elementary http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5592 Mon, 07 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip Middle School PTA will hold a Pancake Dinner Fundraiser on Friday, May 18 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Click here for more information. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5593 Mon, 07 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students at Timber Point Elementary recently participated an injury prevention program sponsored by North Shore LIJ Southside Hospital's Division of Trauma and Emergency Medicine. After learning about safety procedures, the children held a "Teddy Bear Clinic." http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5595 Mon, 07 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT MIDDLE SCHOOL TRACK The middle school track team had two meets last week, opening the season in the rain at Southport-East Manor High School and then competing the next day at home at East Islip Middle School. “The team looks strong, with a large turnout for both the boys and girls squads,” observed Board President Glenn Reed. BOYS VARSITY TRACK AND FIELD The East Islip boys track team won again against a tough Copiague team on May 2, with a final score of 79-62. East Islip was on top of their game, the standout performances including senior Jerel Williams winning the 400 and 200-meter runs, junior Shane Martensen winning the 1600 and 3200-meter runs, sophomore Evan Barnes achieving two personal bests in the 100 and 200- meter runs and junior Andre Deegan placing second in the 100-meter run. “Athletes of the Meet” Brian Smith, Martensen, Ray O'Connor and Jack Smith ran a season best 8:44.64 in the 4x800 run, helping EI lock down the win. “I couldn't have been more proud of my team” said EI coach James Connell. “They were extremely motivated all meet long and did not give up many points. They really showed myself and the other coaches that they came to win.” BASEBALL The East Islip baseball team swept Newfield last week, taking the 3-game series and improving to 16-1 for the year. On May 2, John Dondero pitched a one-hitter with 8 strikeouts, allowing Newfield only a two-out single in the fifth inning. Dondero went 2-for-3 with an RBI in this 3-0 game. . The following day saw East Islip win 4-2, with Ken Rotunno striking out four Newfield batters in a complete game . Dave Palmer went 1-for-3 with a triple and two RBI. In the final game of the series, East Islip exploded at bat, defeating Newfield 13-0. Winning pitcher Dave Palmer pitched a complete game, striking out 13 batters and giving up only 2 hits. Casey Stengel hit a home run and 4 RBI. EI headed into the final week of the season with a 3-game series against second-place Smithtown East. SOFTBALL East Islip’s softball team won two out of three last week, beginning with a May 2 win over Hauppauge in a League III/IV crossover game. Courtney Blake was the winning pitcher in the 5-2 victory, throwing a complete game and allowing only 5 hits and 1 walk with 2 strikeouts. Senior shortstop Lindsey Zenk went 2-for-3 with 2 runs and 2 stolen bases, Alexa Martone went 3-for-3 with an RBI single. The game featured a battle of coaching brothers, with East Islip coach Jason McGowan coming out on top over his brother, Hauppauge coach Jimmy McGowan. Both are sons of legendary Bay Shore coach Jim McGowan. On May 3, EI lost a 5-2 game to Half Hollow Hills West, again with Blake on the mound. EI roared back on May 5, demolishing Half Hollow Hills East by a lopsided 15-0 score and raising their League III record to 12-2. Sophomore Danielle Drywa had her first multiple-home run game, going 2-for-3 with 2 home runs (including a grand slam) and six RBI. Kelsey Fileccia also homered, and Kristina Rodriguez went 2-for-3 with an RBI. Ace pitcher Blake won again. GIRLS VARSITY GOLF East Islip’s girls golf team went 3-0 last week, with their League II season record improved to 7-3. EI defeated Connetquot twice and downed Bellport, losing only one match point all week. EI won the April 30 game against Bellport by 9-0. Kim Schmidt and junior Hannah Rielly both shot a 11-over 47 on Timber Point’s white course. On May 2, they beat Connetquot 8-1. Schmidt shot a 45 and sophomore Cathy Marku shot a 48, with the team shooting a season-low combined score of 248. East Islip beat Connetquot again on May 3, winning 9-0. GIRLS VARSITY LACROSSE The girls varsity team hammered Connetquot on May 1, coming away with a 19-9 victory in Division I. East Islip was led by Nicole Levy’s 2 goals and 8 assists and Victoria Gregson’s 5 goals and 1 assist. Other scorers: Carlee Ancona (3 goals, 1 assist), Jackie Niciforo (2 goals, 4 assists), Lisa Olen (2 goals), Mackenzie Houghton (1 goals, 2 assists), Elizabeth Vetter (1 goal, 2 assists), Jacqueline Clyne (1 goal) and Shannon Cummings (1 goal). Lee-Ann Salim made 6 saves, Krista Ancona made 2. East Islip then lost a close 11-10 game against Ward Melville on May 3, despite Krista Ancona’s 5 saves. EI scorers were Gregson (4 goals), Niciforo (3 goals), Cummings (2 goals, 1 assist), Carlee Ancona (1 goal) and Levy (4 assists). BOYS VARSITY LACROSSE On April 30, the boys varsity lacrosse team came out on top against Whitman, winning 11-10. Ken Pastore scored with 4:23 left to put East Islip up 10-9. Freshman goalie Sean Sconone made 11 saves, and Robert Sconone scored 1 goal and 5 assists. Other scorers for EI were Tyler Rigo (3 goals), Sean Spruyt (3 goals), Joe Modica (1 goal, 1 assist), Troy Revello (1 goal, 1 assist) and Shawn Cummings (1 goal East Islip fell short against Smithtown West, losing 16-5 on May 2 despite 3 saves each from goalies Sean Sconone and Robert Rohan. EI scorers were Rigo (3 goals), Bobby Kenney (2 goals), Anthony Diesu (1 assist) and Robert Sconone (1 assist). The team came back strong on May 4, defeating Floyd 11-6. Robert Sconone led EI with 4 goals and 2 assists, followed by Spruyt (4 goals), Rigo (3 goals, 4 assists), Cummings (1 assist) and Revello (1 assist). Goalie Sean Sconone made 7 saves. GIRLS MIDDLE SCHOOL LACROSSE The East Islip Middle School girls lacrosse tean beat Ronkonkoma 16-7 on May 2, led by seventh-grader Taylor Lungrin’s 5 goals and great saves by goalies Cailee Greco and Jenna Murphy. Sara Wright and Rachel Florenz also had outstanding games with 3 goals each. Amanda Moccaldi, Veronica Saager, Kayla Harrison, Angelina Perrone and Amanda Rovalino each scored a goal for EI. BOYS VARSITY TENNIS In league play, the boys varsity tennis team hit a rough patch, losing Bay Shore on April 30 (David Carroll lost 6-2, 6-1 at third singles) and Connetquot on May 1, both by 6-1 scores. Photos by Glenn Reed http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5601 Mon, 07 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Standout senior Jessica Esposito has been accepted to the State University of New York at Potsdam (known as SUNY Potsdam), where she plans to study environmental science and minor in vocal performance. SUNY Potsdam, a public university in far northern New York State near the Canadian border, is renowned for its education, music and mathematics programs. Founded in 1816 as the St. Lawrence Academy, it is one of the 50 oldest colleges in the United States. After several changes, the school adopted its current name in 1964. Esposito seems well on her way to a successful course of environmental study at Potsdam, something that her participation in East Islip High School’s Environmental Green Career Academy aptly prepared her for. She was one of 19 Career Academy students selected as finalists in this year’s Long Island Youth Summit Competition at Dowling College’s Fortunoff Hall & Kramer Science Center. “I’m 100 percent positive that the only reason I love my senior year is because of the Environmental Green Career Academy,” Esposito said. “I’m very happy I joined, as it helped me gain confidence in everything I do. I’ve also gained some close friendships with people I never thought I would. It’s been a very exciting yet relaxing year.” http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5610 Mon, 07 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Approximately 40 East Islip High School French students recently traveled to France for a spring break trip, an important cultural experience that enriched their personal growth and language studies. The students and their chaperones visited Paris and Nice in France as well as the neighboring countries of Monaco and Italy. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5569 Sun, 06 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Cinco de Mayo came a day early to Connetquot Elementary School when Rose Eger's first-graders woke up the school last Friday with a welcoming version of “Hola Amigos.” Directed by music teacher Eileen Egbert, the students sang in Spanish and used egg shakers to accompany the lively Mexican song written by Teresa Jennings. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5573 Sun, 06 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Islip High School has won the first round in the Ford Drive One 4 UR School Video Competition and will compete in the second stage of the contest this week. East Islip’s video is going head to head on Facebook against videos from other school districts across the country, and if EI's entry wins, the school would be awarded as much as $10,000 to help support the Career Academy programs at the high school. The second round of the Drive One 4 UR School Video Competition begins at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, May 8, 2012, and runs until 9. a.m. on Wednesday, May 9. "Thanks to all of you in the community for taking the time to go on Facebook and vote for our video," said Guidance Director Israel Malinowitzer. "Please make every effort to view our video and vote as many times as you can before Wednesday morning, as the school with the most views will move to the third round." Click here to view the East Islip video and vote. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5577 Sun, 06 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT In a strong show of leadership and altruism, players from East Islip High School’s varsity softball team volunteered their time on May 6 at the Long Island Special Olympics, held at Connetquot High School in Bohemia. During this Spring Games South event (the Spring Games North took place earlier in Huntington), which included competitions in the 50-meter dash, 100-meter walk, javelin throw and softball throw, the East Islip students partnered up with each other and were assigned a special athlete to be responsible for. “The girls danced with their athletes, took them to their events and made sure they had a great day,” said EI softball coach Jason McGowan. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5576 Sat, 05 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Islip School District's Universal Pre-Kindergarten Lottery (for District residents only) will be held on Wednesday, May 30 at 6:30 p.m. in the District Office boardroom. Click here for more information and eligibility requirements. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5567 Sat, 05 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT “Earth Day at East Islip was a huge success,” said Israel Malinowitzer, East Islip High School’s guidance director and head of the school’s two Career Academies. Over 25 business vendors took part in this spring’s day-long event, which was hosted by the Environmental Green Career Academy. Suffolk County Legislator Tom Cilmi and Town of Islip Councilmen John C. Cochrane Jr. and Anthony S. Senft Jr. were among the visitors who came to show their support for East Islip and the Environmental Green Academy. Organizations with booths included Keep Islip Clean (KIC), the Town of Islip Green Homes Program, the Sierra Club, the Seatuck Environmental Association, Paul Davis Restoration, Home Performance Technology, Direct Grid Technologies, EJ Autism and local U.S. Army and Marine Corps units. “Both the International Business Globalization Career Academy and the Environmental Green Career Academy teams had their own booths so that the students could inform people about their programs and their Academy’s accomplishments this year,” explained Malinowitzer. “The Green Academy students helped place all the vendors in their booth areas, helped the vendors set up and provided them with lunch and drinks,” he added. The Environmental Green Career Academy seniors also walked younger students over from East Islip Middle School to the high school’s courtyard, where they provided seeds and soil for planting to each middle schooler. They also organized a recycling game where sixth-grade students were required to separate recyclable from non-recyclable items. In a humorous touch, Earth Day participants were given an opportunity to have their picture taken with “Mascot Frogs,” whose costumes were provided by the Town of Islip. http://www.eischools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5538 Thu, 03 May 2012 16:00:00 GMT The “Smashed” program came to East Islip High on May 2, planting a stark mock auto accident scene on the grass in front of the school. Coordinated with the school’s Students Against Destructive Decisions (S