Excitement, energy and unity filled the East Islip Middle School gymnasium on Oct. 23 as students and staff came together with plenty of enthusiasm for a lively pep rally celebrating EI Pride. After Colbie Gravano sang “The Star-Spangled Banner,” the school’s cheerleaders performed, and 11 fall sports (football, boys soccer, girls soccer, boys and girls cross-country, field hockey, gymnastics, girls tennis, cheerleading, kickline and hockey) and over 30 different clubs were recognized. Fun activities included musical chairs, school store gift card raffles and an exciting hula hoop relay featuring 12 students per grade, with the winning grade facing off against a staff team.

“We had an incredible afternoon celebrating the amazing students who make our school such a great place to be,” Principal Tara Scully said. “Events like this showcase the positivity, teamwork and school spirit that define who we are. EIMS truly is a place where everyone belongs and shines.”