South Huntington Union Free School District
60 Weston Street
Huntington Station, New York, 11746
Non-Profit Organization
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 179
Huntington Station, NY 11746
JUNE 2012
FROM YOUR SUPERINTENDENT
There's one thing I've always wanted to do before
I quit: RETIRE. -- Groucho Marx
“Life’s a journey, not a destination.” Steven Tyler sang in
his hit with Aerosmith, “Amazing,” and that is exactly how I
feel. This leg of my journey, the one spent with all of you, in
addition to being amazing, has been a memorable and
extremely rewarding one. For example, I can remember at one
point in my career when I was Assistant Superintendent for
Personnel. I was asked to be superintendent. I felt I wasn’t
ready, and I said so honestly. Several years later, when asked
a second time, I felt far more confident, even though I knew
the journey would be unlike anything I had ever imagined.
Taking over as superintendent in 2003, I was energized
to fix what needed fixing and set a course of academic leadership that would begin to spotlight the amazingly talented
staff and students that comprise the South Huntington community.
As with most journeys, my life as superintendent was
filled with many goals, many of which I have met, and a few of
which I’m still working on. Much like our own children (I have
two), a school district is in constant change, growing with new
victories, creating even more challenges. The challenges are
what make me get up every morning, energized, and looking
forward to my day. The victories become a floor for me on
which to stand while tackling the next challenge. And, there is
always that next challenge.
There have been many who have inspired me, but knowing that I would no doubt inadvertently omit someone, I’m not
going to even attempt to list them. But past and current
employees, students, parents, Board members, and residents
who have touched my life all remind me in their own way why
being an educator can be one of the most rewarding careers
there is.
In each and every one of my Whitman Commencement
addresses, I make it a point to stress what I feel is the most
important advice I can offer to students leaving Whitman to
take their place in the real world. It is that living a life that matters doesn't happen by accident. It's not a matter of circumstance but a matter of choice. So says Michael Josephson in
his famous speech about what’s really important. He says that
what will matter is not your success but your significance.
What will matter is not what you learned but what you taught.
What will matter is how long you will be remembered by whom
and for what. For me there are so many whom I will remember, especially for what they have taught me.
In one of my very first communications as superintendent, I focused on what I felt was the critical mission of our
school district, and that message is as current today as it was
then. “We want to give the children of the South Huntington
School District every opportunity to succeed, to become good
citizens of the world. We want them to choose to live a life that
matters. To choose to live a life that cares enough to take a
moment to touch others' lives in some way.”
Thank you, South Huntington School District family, for all
of the friendship and support you have offered me over the last
fourteen years. I can only hope that I have touched your lives
and made a difference in the same meaningful way that you
have touched mine.
It has been an honor and a privilege to know and work
with each and every one of you.
Dr. Thomas C. Shea
Superintendent of Schools
Whitman’s Traveling Biologist Is Off Again
A couple of years ago, Whitman biology teacher Mr. John Karavias
spent a part of his summer off the coast of Alaska in the Bering Sea
studying the effects of ocean temperature on phytoplankton. Soon he'll
be off again, this time keeping his feet on solid tundra. In the first week
of July, Mr. Karavias will be traveling to Fairbanks, Alaska, where he will
head out on the Dalton Highway, made famous by the hit series "Ice
Road Truckers." He will spend a week at the Institute of Arctic Biology
Toolik Field Station (TFS), a world-renowned Arctic climate change
research station located in the northern foothills of the Brooks Range in
Alaska.
“We are interested in finding ways to ‘see' how the Earth has responded
in past warming and cooling cycles,” said Mr. Karavias. “We will be taking core samples of the tundra to be analyzed.” The tundra is a major
player in carbon sequestration, and the sphagnum peat in the tundra
behaves differently in cold and warm cycles. “Here’s what we know.
Cold, dry times in our past result in less carbon stored in the tundra,
while warm, moist trends result in increased storage,” said Mr. Karavias.
He will be analyzing his coring samples to identify the flora (plants) and
then to see how much stored carbon is in
them. He will then cross-reference the flora
and carbon data them with the paleoclimate.
Dr. Jon Nichols, the lead scientist who Mr. Karavias will be studying
under, is a geochemist and has already given him a tutorial on the equipment he will be operating.
Lamont-Doherty is a core component of the Earth Institute, Columbia
University, which brings together people and tools to address some of
the world’s most challenging problems, from climate change and environmental degradation, to poverty, disease, and the sustainable use of
resources.
“This is an interdisciplinary study that will enable us to analyze our findings on how carbon is stored in sphagnum peat at different periods in the
earth's history,” explained Mr. Karavias. “We can then extrapolate where
the Earth is headed as it relates to climate change.”
“It is exciting to know I will be conducting research at this level,” said Mr.
Karavias. “Bringing it back to my classroom and sharing it with my students is a great opportunity, both for them and for me.”
When he returns from Alaska, the analysis
portion of his summer study will take place
back home, at the Lamont-Doherty Earth
Observatory in Palisades, NY. He will have
to prepare the samples and educate the
Lamont graduate students about his project. Mr. John Karavias in a photo montage of Toolik Field Station in Alaska.
KIMBERLY SHEN AND NICK SCOVER- 2012 VALEDICTORIAN & SALUTATORIAN
“Try your best, and make the most of your four years at
Whitman,” said this year’s valedictorian Kimberly Shen. “Get
involved and see where it takes you.” Sound words of advice
from Whitman’s top academic student, who will be graduating
with a 99.2 grade point average. Kimberly enjoyed the sciences
at Whitman right away and learned of a program run by Columbia
University. It required some pretty tough testing to get in, and
Kimberly scored well, competing with her high school peers in the
New York Metropolitan Area. This Saturday science program at
Columbia opened the world of neuroscience to Kimberly. “I'm
honored to be awarded valedictorian,” said Kimberly. “It’s the culmination of my high school experience.”
Business Honors Program at Fordham University. Posting a 98.9
grade point average, Nick, early on, debated with himself about
attending Whitman. “I was considering a different school, but I’m
really glad I chose to go to Whitman,” said Nick. “Between
wrestling and DECA, I found so many activities that I really
enjoyed. This will be my second year going to the DECA international competition. I had a really good time at Whitman, and I’m
going to miss it.”
Kimberly was involved in numerous clubs and activities at
Whitman, but she most enjoyed her 4 years working for the
school's newsletter "Pawprint." She served as its editor in chief
during her senior year and found that her love for creative writing
matched her love for the sciences. Kimberly's quiet demeanor
and selfless character make her a favorite of both her fellow students and her teachers, whom she credits for being "extremely
supportive and fostering a really good learning environment."
This fall, Kimberly will be attending Columbia University, where
she will major in biology.
Nick Scover will be headed to the Bronx next fall, not to play
baseball, but to begin his post-high-school career as 1 of 25 students chosen from across the nation to participate in the
Nick Scover, Principal Acker, and Kimberly Shen
WHITMAN GETS HIGH SCORES IN NATIONAL RANKING
Out of nearly 22,000 public high schools evaluated in the Nation, Walt Whitman
High School has been ranked 789 in the US, and has been ranked 102 in New
York State by US News and World Report. “Congratulations to Principal
Kathie Acker and her staff," said South Huntington Superintendent, Dr. Thomas
Shea. "I also want to acknowledge all of the many staff members district-wide
who work to make Walt Whitman High School as excellent as it is.”
According to US News and World Report, the 2012 Best High Schools rankings
is based on the key principles that a great high school must serve all of its students well, not just those who are college-bound, and that it must be able to
produce measurable academic outcomes to show the school is successfully
educating its student body across a range of performance indicators.
PTANews PTA News PTANewsPTANewsPTA
2012 WILDCAT SPORTS CAMPS
“The Best Camp Bargain in the Area”
PTA
CULTURAL ARTS
Wildcat Kids "A-cat-emy” (Grades K-2)
and Wildcat Sports Camp (Grades 3-12)
Half-day sessions: AM: 8:30-11:30 or PM: 12:30-3:30
Full-day sessions: AM 8:30-3:30 Lunch included
3 sessions:
Session I - June 25-June 29
Session II - July 2-6 (4 days)
Session III - July 9-13
NEW
THIS YEAR!
•Bowling Sports Camp- session 2
Additional information and registration form is available
on line at: www.shufsd.org, Athletics, click on Athletic
Department eBoard hit Sports Camp tab
OUT OF DISTRICT
STUDENTS ARE WELCOME!!!
Board Of Education
Jim Kaden
President
Thomas Teresky, JD
Vice President
TRUSTEES:
Lisa Brieff
Nicholas R. Ciappetta, JD
Linda LaCara
Chad A. Lupinacci, JD
Edward Nitkewicz, JD
Ms. Shelley Sauer, center with the Big Shot band and Mr. Vince D’Ulisse
PTA Cultural Arts has finished another incredibly busy school year. Cultural Arts chairperson Ms. Shelley Sauer has excelled in her position, and the children in South Huntington’s schools have benefited greatly. They have experienced the wildly popular Erik’s Reptile
Edventures and the ever-inspiring Ms. Marion Lazan, who brings a poignant message of acceptance as she shares her reflections of
time spent in a concentration camp as a young girl. They have enjoyed a rousing, foot-stomping performance by Big Shot, the Billy Joel
tribute band that rocked the Performing Arts Center. All of these unique opportunities have added immeasurably to the students' academic experience this year. PTA Cultural Arts looks forward to continuing to bring in talented professionals to help inspire, entertain,
and leave a positive, lasting impression on the children in South Huntington.
So when you help by volunteering or donating at a PTA fundraiser, know that your contributions are doing some amazing things for our
schools.
YOU’RE INVITED...
WHITMAN PTA FASHION SHOW SHOWCASE FOR A GREAT CAUSE
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Board Meeting and Senior Awards 7:30PM
Walt Whitman Performing Arts Center
301 West Hills Road, Huntington Station
DISTRICT OFFICE PERSONNEL
Thomas Shea, Ed.D, JD
Superintendent of Schools
Karen Occhiogrosso
Assistant Superintendent for Business
Jacqueline Harris
Assistant Superintendent, Student Services
Dr. Timothy Eagen, Ed.D
Assistant Superintendent, Instruction and Curriculum
Dr. Joseph Centamore, Ed.D
Assistant Superintendent, Personnel and District Services
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
District Office . . . 812-3000
Birchwood . . . . . 812-3200
Countrywood . . . 812-3300
Maplewood . . . . . 812-3400
Oakwood . . . . . . 812-3500
Silas Wood . . . . . 812-3600
Stimson . . . . . . . . 812-3700
Walt Whitman . . . . 812-3800
SHIP (x130) . . . . . 812-3170
Transportation . . . 812-3088
Security . . . . . . . . 812-3900
Bus garage . . . . . . 812-3089
School addresses and hours, as well as all phone numbers may be found in your
District Calendar and Parent Handbook on page 15 and page 16.
South Huntington School District
60 Weston Street, Huntington Station, NY 11746
SHEF- OHEKA WINE TASTING
An excellent fundraiser with entertainment provided by the Walt Whitman Chamber Orchestra was a fun night out tasting excellent wines, foods,
and an art and sports memorabilia auction at the always impressive OHEKA Castle.
Left to right: BOE member Mr.Nicholas
Ciappetta, BOE President Mr. Jim Kaden,
South Huntington Public Library Director
Mr. Joseph Latini, and BOE Vice President
Mr. Thomas Teresky.
SHEF Chairperson
Mr. Charles T. Ciravolo
thanks the many wine,
food and art vendors
who were in attendance. South Huntington Schools Assistant
Superintendents Dr. Joseph
Centamore, and Ms. Jacqueline
Harris catch a moment to relax.
Apple IPads were on display as
attendees got to sample software that
Debbie and Jim Kaden enjoying their children will be using. SHEF has
the evening and celebrating a donated two IPad Carts, each with 30
special birthday.
IPads to Maplewood and Birchwood.
Visit our New Web site:
www.shufsd.org
Copyright © 2012 Bartholomew Associates Inc.
SHEF Committee members left to right: Mr.Nicholas Ciappetta,
Dr.Timothy Eagen, Ms. Vicki Dollin, Mr. Charles Ciravolo,
Mr. Larry Weinstock, Ms. Susan Burton, Mr. Stephen Bartholomew,
Ms. Robyn Feltman, and Ms. Jo Ann Fink. Missing from photo is
Ms. Patricia Dillon and Ms. Margaret Silvera.
The Walt Whitman Chamber Orchestra, and it’s Director, Mr. Frank Yolango (standing center) helped to make it a special night.
AROUND THE DISTRICT AROUND THE DISTRICT
THE WILDCAT
BOOSTER CLUB
INVITES YOU
TO JOIN US AT THE
GOLD KEY-
SCHOLARSHIP AND
SPORTS HALL OF
FAME DINNER
Tuesday, June, 12th at 6pm
Woodbury Country Club
Woodbury, New York
Come help us celebrate
the achievements of our
athletes past and present.
• 29 Gold Key Recipients
• 18 Athletes of the Month
• Over 20 Scholarships winners
2012 Hall of Fame Recipients
Enez Boozer
Ralph Lewis
Edwin Martin
Richie Thompson
Erin Gilroy Triolo
Kelly Schaeffer
Jimmy Schwartz
For a registration form or more information visit our
eboard at www.shufsd.org or contact the
athletic office at 631-812-3142.
South Huntington
Named a Best
Community for
Music Education
-Nationwide Survey Finds School Districts
Committed to Music Education as a Conduit
for Success in School and in Life–
Supervisor of Fine Arts and Adult Education,
Vincent D’Ulisse said, "We are very fortunate in
that we receive tremendous support for the arts
in South Huntington. Our Board of Education
and Superintendent understand that a wellrounded education includes a strong music program. And for good reason: Education research
shows that the study of music supports success
in all other academic areas by developing
abstract and critical thinking skills. South
Huntington is extremely proud of our music students and their outstanding teachers.
South Huntington’s Parent University “Graduates”
The first class from South Huntington’s Parent University “graduated”
Friday night, and the community couldn’t have been prouder. If you
weren’t a part of Parent University, you missed a great opportunity to
sharpen the skills we all need to have in order to take on life’s most important and demanding pursuit: raising successful children.
Dr. Pedro Noguera, the evening keynote speaker and a nationally
renowned expert on building partnerships between schools and the parents and communities they serve, started things off on the right note. A
professor at NYU, Dr. Noguera told the packed audience at Walt
Whitman’s Performing Arts Center that the most challenging and difficult
thing he does is to parent. “As parents, we can only hope that we have
laid a foundation that will allow us to continue to influence our children
when they are not with us,” he said. “That way they will be able to make
good decisions, exercise good judgment, apply themselves, and grow up
to be healthy, productive people.”
Program coordinator Mr. David Perkins was instrumental in making the
evening the success that it was. Several workshops utilized new technologies, and many of the evening’s events had their audio and visual
technological components staffed by experts from Teq, the nation’s
largest provider of interactive classroom technology and support services. Even the childcare featured Smartboard technologies that entertained
the youngsters while their parents attended workshops. The south gymnasium also featured a vendor gallery of regional and local companies
and organizations, who all supported the Parent University theme
“Partners Shaping Children’s Lives.” “Our goal was to strengthen the partnership with our parent community while providing resources and information that would help them,” said Ms. Harris. “We achieved our goal
and much more. Next year, we’ll try to surpass what we did this year.”
Parents chose from a wide variety of workshops, from “Raising a
Thinking Child” to “Financial Literacy” to “Bullying and the Special Needs
Child.” Attendees also enjoyed a meal break catered by Whitman
Delicatessen, sponsored by State Farm Insurance and staffed by volunteers from Air Techniques.
“I was most impressed by the number of parents who chose to spend a
Friday evening partnering with us to improve their skills,” said Ms.
Jacqueline Harris, Assistant Superintendent for Student Services. “I was
also impressed with the number of staff members who volunteered their
time. We all felt that we were working together to do something very special for our school community.” Ms, Harris added, “The support of our
sponsors and vendors was tremendous. From the T-shirts and food to
their presentations and giveaways, they covered the costs for this whole
program and were there excited to be a part of our team.”
Left to right: Schools Superintendent Dr. Thomas Shea, Dr. Pedro Noguera, Assistant
Superintendent for Student Services Ms. Jacqueline Harris, and Dr. Adeyemi Stembridge Project Associate, at NYU Steinhardt.
Whitman Music Program Brings Home Gold and More
This past Spring, the Walt Whitman High School Music Department participated in
the World Strides Heritage Performance Program’s, National Competition in
Washington, DC. High schools from around the country and Canada competed for
ratings and rankings in both choral and instrumental categories. The results not only
speak for themselves, but are a testament to the fact that the South Huntington
School District is recognized regularly as one of the top 100 schools in the nation of
music education. We congratulate our fine music teachers and their highly talented
students. Here are the results:
Whitman Chorale: Gold Rating-1st Place.
Whitman Chamber Orchestra: Silver Rating- 1st Place.
Whitman Wind Ensemble: Gold Rating- 1st Place.
Whitman Jazz Band: Gold Rating- 1st Place.
In addition – the following awards were presented;
The Whitman Chorale won the Choral Sweepstakes Award.
The Whitman Chorale won the Adjudicator’s Award for best Chorus
in the competition
The Whitman Chamber Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and Jazz Band
won the Instrumental Sweepstakes Award.
The Whitman Jazz Band won the Adjudicator’s Award for best
instrumental group in the competition.
The Festival Sweepstakes Award was presented to the
Walt Whitman Music Department.
Chorale and Jazz Band were invited to participate in next year’s Festival of Gold
Competitions in New York and San Francisco.
Congratulations to the following students and their instructors:
Wind Ensemble / Jazz Band – Instructor Mr. Allan Deitz: Dan Alcantara, Angela
Acevedo, John Aiken, Francis Alivio, Ruby Bafu, Nikhil Bartolomeo, Andrew
Behrens, Nolan Braun, Sean Breen, Will Brenseke, James Collins, Joe Connolly,
Corey Cook, Emily Di Lillo, Kris Dickerson, Adam Doherty, Michael Gallagher,
Andrew Gonzales, Kyle Henson, Alexis Higuera, Nicole Katz, Brian Krainer, Chris
Laucella, Kitty Le Claire, Jackie Leogrande, Michelle Nolasco, Kenny O’Neill,
Alexandra O’Toole, Taylor Parrish, Zach Pehel, Mike Rex, Mike Sanchez, Tony
Sansotta, Jack Schatten, Rebecca Shaiman, Samantha Shaiman, Kevin Shepherd,
Ellen Tricomi, Chris Vital, Jeremy Williams, Courtney Yodice, and Patrick
Zakrzewski.
Chorus – Instructor Mr. Steve Altinel: Elizabeth Ailello, Joe Cairl, Ryan Capozzo,
Kelly Carmine, Christina Clark, Kristin Clark, Sean Conlon, Aubrey Daly, Elise Deeg,
Alexandra Dukes, Cole Dybec, Thomas Foley, Emile, Anne Greaves, Jonathan
Heller, Kalif Jones, Sarah Klaum, Nick Magnus, Jessica Malone, Olivia Marchionda,
Dylan Muhlstock, Lindsey Nyman, Kevin Rivera, Kristen Riordan, and Eric Sicard.
Maestro Awards were presented to seniors John Aiken (trumpet), Kenny O’Neill
(trombone), and the rhythm section of the Jazz Band. Finally, the Whitman
Orchestra – Instructor Mr. Frank Yolango: Jeremy Allen, Alex Alpy, Danielle
Canniff, Elsa Cheung, Chris Consolo, Bryan Delado, Jennifer Fenwick, Demi Kaitery,
Jon Maresca, Katie McLaughlin, Emily Olinsky, Eileen Panza, Nick Pinelli, Kim
Prestin, Sarah Riordan, Jackie Sauer, Alyssa Vallar, James Vigneau, Jackie Wirth,
and Eliza Wong.
SHEF GOLF OUTING
The South Huntington Educational Foundation (SHEF) will
host its 15th annual Golf Outing at Timber Point Golf
Course on Wednesday, June 27, 2012.
Registration for the golf outing opens at 12:00 noon with a barbecue lunch and access to the driving range.
Golf begins with a shotgun start at 2:00PM (best-ball format) followed by a cocktail hour and dinner at about 7:00PM.
SHEF will also host a Sports Memorabilia and Art Auction along with a variety of raffles throughout the evening.
SHEF’s honoree this year is
Mrs. Karen Siegel
Mrs. Siegel is the Principal of the Countrywood Primary Center and President of the South Huntington
Administrators’ Association (SHAA). Mrs. Siegel has spent the last seventeen years of her educational career advocating for the students and staff of the South Huntington Union Free School District, and SHEF is proud to call her
one of its own and to honor her at this year’s golf outing.
Cost for the day is either $185.00 (golf and dinner) for registrations prior to June 1 or $195.00 hereafter.
Cocktail hour and dinner only is $75.00 ($85.00 after June 1). Gold, Silver, Tee, Green, and Friends of
SHEF sponsorships are also available. Donations of any amount are welcome. Brochures
are available in all South Huntington schools as well as in the district office.
Inquiries can be directed to Assistant Superintendent Dr. Timothy Eagen at 812-3078.
SHEF's mission endures, and all proceeds from the Golf Outing will continue to support
such worthwhile efforts. Your support is essential and is greatly appreciated.
OakwoodOakwoodOakwoodOakwoodOakwood
OUR KINDERGARTEN TRIP TO THE ZOO OAKWOOD HEADS TO TEDDY BEAR CLINIC
The kindergarten students at Oakwood have been learning about
many different kinds of animals and their habitats. Zoo Around the
School, developed by the kindergarten teachers, provided the opportunity for each class to visit another and learn about a new animal in
each classroom. When finished, the children had completed research
books for many different kinds of animals. This experience was not
only fun and exciting, but helped familiarize the students with information on the animals that would be viewed at the zoo. Fun was had
by all.
TRIP TO THE APPLE STORE!
This April, Oakwood’s Second Grade
Dual Language classes experienced
the Apple Store at the Walt Whitman
Mall. And what an experience it was!
The classes were greeted at the door
by three wonderful Apple employees,
who proceeded to take the classes on
a wild Apple adventure. There was a
lot of clapping, cheering, and laughter,
while the children were introduced to
some of the new
products available at
the store. The class
were split up into
small groups and
the children began
to experiment and
giggle with the
Photo Booth program on the laptops
in the store. With help from our hosts
they were able to instantly create
exciting projects, which each child
took home on a cd. After 90 wonderful, jam-packed minutes, each child
received the cd, a certificate and a
great Apple t-shirt.
It was a wonderful way to experience
new technology.
Lions, tigers, and bears in the hospital! That doesn’t
frighten Oakwood first graders. In fact each of
Oakwood’s first grade classes brought their fluffy stuffed
friends to Huntington Hospital for some extra special
care. Nurses and volunteers were on staff to greet students and lead them through a series of 10 different stations. Students learned what to expect when they or a
family member visit the hospital for treatment.
First stop was the “teddy triage” where each stuffed animal was given a hospital gown and I.D. bracelet.
Students donned doctor caps and assisted in a quick
exam of their pal’s vital signs, ears, eyes, temperature,
and weight.
As students and bears rotated through stations they
practiced proper hand washing, use of bandages, walkers, oxygen masks, and bicycle safety. Not one single
bear shed a tear as students practiced giving them a
shot, followed by a bandage and a kiss.
Everyone got a clean bill of health and was awarded a
new bear friend, compliments of Huntington Hospital.
STUDENTS FIND TILLES CENTER MUSICALLY STIMULATING
Oakwood’s second grade enjoyed a wonderful
musically stimulating field trip on April 3! We
went to the Tilles Center for the Performing
Arts at C.W.Post to see the Vanaver Caravan
in America, a World Within a Nation. The company’s love for the world’s diverse cultures as
well as to peace worldwide was beautifully
displayed in this high-spirited production.
All of our students were enlivened, educated
and fully inspired as they watched the traditional dance, music and cultural numbers
come to life. Active participation from the audience included the percussive Appalachian
Clogging Teach-In, where the children used
their feet to accompany singing and dance
movements done on stage. The
children also got involved singing
the repetitive African song Juba
and remembering all the whimsical
lyrics! Most mesmerizing was the
agile and talented dancer performing the Native American Hoop
Dance. The children sat wide-eyed
as he effortlessly created natural
beings from various colored hoops!
Playbills were also distributed and
the children felt very grown up
being able to read and find their
favorite act. A most enjoyable
experience was had by all!
CountrywoodCountrywoodCountrywood
STONY BROOK OUTREACH PROGRAM
On March 9, a team of Bio-Medical Engineering
Students (BMES) visited Countrywood with the idea
of educating young children about engineering. This
outreach program, tailored to the age of our students,
was made possible by Mr. Leonardo Tavera, father of
Abigail, second grader in Mrs. Burr’s class. Stony
Brook undergraduate students involved our second
graders in three fun, hands-on experiments. Projects
included building bridges with toothpicks and candy
Dots to see which bridge could hold the most weight;
building lung models with balloons, straws, and a
plastic bottle to show inhalation and exhalation of
lungs; and using photopaper and light to create an
imprint of a picture or x-ray. The BMES volunteers
who visited Countrywood explained that their goal
was to excite young children with science, technolo-
gy, engineering, and math. They demonstrated first
hand that it is never too early for students to start
learning about these subjects. A very special thank
you goes to Mr. Tavera and the BMES volunteers for
bringing us this exciting, not-to-be-forgotten, enrichment program!
DO YOU LIKE GREEN EGGS
Mrs. Wright’s kindergartners celebrated Dr. Seuss’
108th birthday. The children participated in “Read
Across America” and enjoyed listening to and reading
some of their favorite Dr. Seuss books such as
Horton Hears a Who, The Cat in the Hat, and Oh, the
Places You’ll Go! Mrs. Wright, adorned with a Dr.
Seuss hat, helped her youngsters create a replica of
their own. They decorated the brim of their red and
white striped hats with familiar rhyming words.
UNIQUE SIT-UPONS
Students in Mrs. Burr’s second grade class had an
innovative art experience. With guidance from
Countrywood’s art teacher, Mrs. Davis, children had
the opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind chair using
an assortment of everyday materials. Using their
creativity, they built chairs and benches on a theme
of their own choosing. They learned how to construct a chair and applied their own unique details
and designs to the structure. This hands-on lesson
in sculpture, building, and painting involved the
youngsters using higher-order thinking skills. Chairs
have long been a venue for artists’ expression, and
now served as an inspiration for our young art students at Countrywood!
AND
This was the culmination of a week-long celebration
which included daily reading of Seuss’ books and creative writing and art activities. To the children’s surprise, Mrs. Siegel joined the festivities by sharing her
favorite book, Green Eggs and Ham. The entire
class then celebrated with a special treat … especially prepared for them …green eggs and ham… for
morning snack!
HAM?
Although Dr. Seuss was not an
official doctor, his prescription for
fun has delighted readers of all
ages for many decades. Happy
Birthday, Dr. Seuss!
Principal Siegel reading her favorite Dr.
Seuss book.
Green Eggs and Ham? Not
so bad after all.
BirchwoodBirchwoodBirchwoodBirchwoo
Knowledge Alive! - The Struggle for Freedom against Tyranny
True Tales from
the Underground
Railroad
Birchwood’s fourth grade students had the opportunity to participate in a unique learning experience
using a collection of true stories from the
Underground Railroad. Knowledge Alive is an arts
integration project using storytelling, dramatic role
play, and creative writing to explore the idea of justice working with the binary opposites of freedom
and slavery on Long Island. The creator of the pro-
gram, Ms. Dafna Soltes Stein, visited
Birchwood’s classrooms for lessons. After all of
the students participated in the four week classroom program, some of our fourth graders put on
a play as a culminating exercise. They imagine
themselves into another time and place in
American history and create “tableaux vivant”
(frozen scenes come to life) with dynamic, emotional dialogue. Students think about the character’s feelings through words and movement,
developing empathy for the suffering of others,
appreciation for perseverance in the face of fear
and danger, and admiration for kindness offered
by one stranger to another.
Actor/author Dafna Soltes Stein, working with
Birchwood students.
HONORING
GRANDPARENTS
Students in Mrs. D’Elia’s third grade class celebrated Grandparent’s Day with their
Grandparents. In honor of their Grandparents,
students made a movie about them highlighting
why they love them so much, created greeting
cards, and sang them a song. What a great day
all the students and grandparents had!
BIRCHWOOD SCHOOL AND WHITMAN SADD TEAM UP
School urging them to make smart
choices and to be safe during prom
season.
Suffolk Zone Awards
Quotes from kids in their letters-
“Don’t bring alcohol to your
prom. If you get drunk you will
not act like yourself and make
really bad decisions.”
Birchwood School’s fifth grade students are teaming up with Mrs. Mandaro and
the SADD club to help promote safety and making good choices. Students are
putting to good use the information that Officer Wendy provided them during the
Police Smart program. Officer Wendy taught the children about alcohol and its
negative effects on health and decision making. As an extension project, our
students were encouraged to write letters to the seniors of Walt Whitman High
“The legal drinking age is 21. If
you get caught you will get
arrested by the police.”
“Please think before you take the first sip and make the right
choice.”
“People drink alcohol because they want to act tough, the way you
act tough is by saying NO!”
The New York State Association for Health, Physical
Education, Recreation and Dance (Suffolk Zone)
recognized South Huntington students for an Award
in leadership and Excellence in Physical Education.
Left to right: Danielle Kleet, PE teacher Mr. Russell
Rufrano, Quinn Michael O’Hara, and PE teacher
Ms. Caracciola.
MaplewoodMaplewoodMaplewoodMaplewood
Math-A-Thon Adding Up To Big Bucks
Sister and Brother Take the Reigns
Maplewood third-grade teacher Ms. Diane Labate has been coordinating the Math-a-Thon program at her school for several years,
and with each successful event, the total monies raised school
wide increase significantly.
When their mother won the Principal of the Day
raffle at a recent fundraiser to benefit outsidethe-budget
programs
for
Maplewood
Intermediate School students, she may have
unknowingly set a course for her third- and
fourth-grade children. “Getting
to see what Mr. Delia does is
very special for me,” said
Joseph Robert. Along with his
sister Lily, he took over Mr.
Delia’s desk. The duo quickly
rolled up their sleeves and got
to work. Lily expressed interest
in teaching, and Joseph was
most interested in his Principal
of the Day experience. “Mr.
Delia is very busy, and his job
is fun,” said Lily. “I'm glad my
mom won this raffle.” Future
educators in the works? It may
be too soon to tell, but we’re
sure to hear more from these
two motivated students.
This year, the well-designed and challenging booklets were aligned
with the Common Core Standards. The majority of the students
and teachers at Maplewood participated, and this year alone, more
than $8,410 was raised for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
This brought the Maplewood overall total to $45,194.
Congratulations to Ms. Labate and her class for coordinating the
Math-a-Thon, and a really big thank you to the whole Maplewood
school community for their tremendous support.
Students from Ms. Labate’s class.
HUNTINGTON TULIP FESTIVAL WINNERS
Maplewood Intermediate School Art teacher
Ms. Paula Beck announced some great news
just in time for this weekends Twelfth Annual
Town of Huntington Tulip Festival. After careful
deliberation, the judges for the Tulip Festival
Art Contest selected their winners, and four
were from Maplewood. Congratulations to
Maplewood 3rd-grader Patrick Quinlan, 4thgrader Samantha O'Conner, and 5th-graders
Anna Laimo and Meagan Neuman.
Ms. Peggy Low, the Arts-inEducation Coordinator for the
Huntington Arts Council
announced that a Sponsors’
Reception will be held at
Heckscher Museum on
Friday, May 4th at 5:30 pm.
The award ceremony will
begin at 6:00 pm. The Tulip
Festival is on Sunday, May
6th.
Twelfth Annual Town of
Huntington Tulip Festival Art
Contest winers with their principal Mr. Vito D’Elia. Students
left to right: Patrick Quinlan,
Meagan Neuman, Samantha
O’Connor, and Anna Laimo.
Photo: Maplewood Principal Mr. Vito D’Elia,
with Lily and Joseph Robert
MAPLEWOOD’S DERMOT O’CONNOR HONORED
Maplewood fourth-grade teacher Mr. Dermot
O'Connor was honored by the Association of
Suffolk Supervisors of Educational Technologies
(ASSET) recently. A true technology leader at
Maplewood, Mr. O'Connor piloted a number of
technologies this year, including Google Apps
and Mangahigh. Mr. O'Connor has promoted
these tools with his colleagues and helped
teachers benefit from using these valuable
instructional tools. ASSET provides members
with opportunities to share ideas and information
relating to instructional, administrative, and management technologies in education. ASSET
members enhance teaching and learning in
Suffolk County school districts through the use of
computers and other educational technologies
by encouraging the integration of technology into
the K-12 curriculum.
Dermot O'Connor with Maplewood Principal Vito D’Elia
StimsonStimsonStimsonStimsonStimson
STIMSON SCIENCE STUDENTS EXCEL
Mr. Marcus Maddy, Middle School Science Department
Chairperson brought back exciting news from the Long Island
Science Congress Science Fair Awards ceremony. Together
with Principal Ms. Faye Robins, Mr Maddy and the science
teachers at Stimson Middle School would like to congratulate
the following outstanding students on their awards:
Mark Hustedt, Meritorious Award; Joseph Buckshaw, Award
of Achievement; Ariel Khatchatourian, Skyler Zenie, and
Omar Ramos all received Honors Trophies; Ahmad Ejaz
received the High Honors Trophy and Third Place in Ecology
that included a $100 bonus; Karthikeyan Mayilvahanan,
received the Highest Honors Trophy, the STANYS Suffolk
IN
COMPETITION
County Award of $50, the
Anna Weizenecker
Memorial Award of $50;
and the Micro-optics
Award, where he received
a new Microscope; and
Valerie Abbene and Kayla
Neiland both received a
Highest Honor Trophy and
2nd Place for Behavioral
Science that included a
$200 bonus.
STIMSON SHOWSTOPPERS: SUPERIOR IN EVERY WAY!
The Stimson Showstoppers have had a
very busy Spring Concert Season. They
performed at the NJHS Induction
Ceremony and at the Carillon Nursing
Home. On May 21st they participated in
the LI Music Festival where they received
a Superior rating. They will finish their
touring season with a performance for the
South Huntington Senior Citizens
Luncheon. A special Chamber Concert
will be held on June 6th at Stimson MS at
7pm where they will perform along with
the Stimson Jazz Cats. All are welcome Stimson’s Showstoppers with their Superior Performance Trophy at the LI Music
Festival. Director Ms. Terri Haas is standing 2nd from left.
to attend.
STIMSON TRACK TEAM BRINGS HOME THE GOLD
It was a beautiful sunny day
when the Stimson Boys and Girls
Track teams competed in the
Elks Invitational Track Meet at
J.F.K. Middle School in Port
Jefferson Station.
Four New York State History Day Winners
Stimson social studies teacher Mr. Brian Thomas brought back exciting news
from Cooperstown, site of the New York State History Day competition held this
past weekend. Representing Long Island in the Junior Division, and now, new
New York State History Day Champions are the following Stimson Middle School
students: Dillon Feinman won first place for his Website titled “Levittown,” Derek
Lap won second place for his documentary
titled “The Freedom Rides: A Revolution for
Social Justice,” Steven Prestia, Stimson’s upand-coming comedian, earned a second-place
award for performance with his routine titled
“Revolution In Comedy,” and Joe Weindling
took home a third-place win in the Exhibit category with his entry titled “Adding Color to the
World of Sports.”
STIMSON TAKES FIRST PLACE IN THE NATIONAL FRENCH CONTEST
The results are
in and Stimson
Middle School
Principal Ms.
Faye Robins is
proud to
announce that
sixteen of her
students are
Stimson French teacher Ms. winners in the
Stephanie Murphy, and Joonho Ko, National French
the new National French Contest Contest. Of
Champion.
special note is
8th grader
Joonho Ko, who not only took first place for
Suffolk County but took first place Nationally with
a perfect score. The National French Contest/Le
Grand Concours is an annual competition sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of
French. Stimson French teachers Dr. MarieGeralde Eikenaar-Klang, and Ms. Stephanie
Murphy are proud to congratulate the following
students:
French teacher Ms. Stephanie Murphy, standing left,
with her winning 7th grade students.
7th grade winners: Esteban Lopez 1st place
Suffolk County, Christina Bogdani 2nd place
Suffolk County, Shaina Silverman 2nd place (tied),
Hannah Graff 3rd place, Neyda Diaz-Vilorio 6th
place, Epiphany Ramirez 7th place , Melba Munoz
8th place, Steven Prestia 8th place (tied), Sean
Duclay 10th place, Kathleen Dugan 9th place, and
Cinthya Ramos 10th place.
Stimson’s Track teams beat 18
other teams to win a total of 14
medals, with Amani Howard setting a blazing new Meet Record
of 13.3 in the 100 meter dash.
Seventh grader Shelbi Wuss
won Gold in the 3000m. run with
a time of 12:18. Sergio Toledo
won Gold in the 200m. with a
time of 26.3, and the Stimson Boys 4 x 100
m. Relay team were Gold Medal Champions
as well.
Congratulations
Stimson Track!
Sergio Toledo
Shelbi Wuss
8th grade winners: Joonho Ko 1st place Suffolk,
and 1st place Nationally with a perfect score on his
exam; Rose Pedretti 3rd place Suffolk, 4th
Nationally; Gabrielle Ramirez 4th Suffolk, 5th
Nationally; Verdelle Saint-Jean 5th Suffolk, 6th
Nationally; and Francisco Fuentes Alegria 10th
place Suffolk.
Left to right standing: French teachers Ms. Stephanie
Murphy, and Dr. Marie-Geralde Eikenaar-Klang,
along with their winning 8th grade students.
SilasWoodSilasWoodSilasWoodSilasWood
SNAIL MAIL PROVIDES CREATIVE LESSON
Mrs. Bernard's English class at Silas Wood was recently the recipient of a hand written letter from a student named Rachel who
attends school in Mountain View, California. Her letter requested
that the class participate in the Great American Mail Race of 2012.
The race promotes the art of letter writing. Each student from
Rachel's class in California was assigned a state in which to
research a middle school within that state to write a friendly letter
to tell about themselves and their school. The goal of Rachel's
class is to receive letters from every state before the end of their
school year in June.
Mrs. Bernard's class at Silas Wood eagerly wrote letters describing their school, town, interests, and various other topics. In addition, they posed many questions for Rachel to answer in hopes of
having a cross-country pen pal. The letters have been mailed and
the students felt honored to be a part of the Great American Mail
Race and fulfilling Rachel's class's goal.
BLOOD DRIVE WAS THE BEST IN HISTORY!
Sue Lingenfelter from the Long Island Blood Services was
pleased to report that Silas Wood’s blood drive was the best
in their history! There were 59 donations, which will help to
save the lives of almost 180 people. Congratulations to the
Silas Wood community for their support.
SOCKS, SWEETS, AND SONGS FOR SOLDIERS IN AFGHANISTAN
The Silas Wood community, in conjunction with Northport American
Legion Post 694, sent 114 care packages filled with warm socks,
wrapped candies and wonderful music to active duty men and
women currently serving our country in Afghanistan. The platoon of
paratroopers is stationed in
Kandahar Province.
Ms. Kristin Bernard, back left, with her class and their letters.
Silas Wood students, faculty
and staff stayed after school
to write letters of appreciation
and make paper clip angels
to include in the care packages that were delivered in
time for Valentine’s Day.
Chorus, band and orchestra students performed and recorded uplifting and patriotic songs for the care packages. Art students created
cards and Languages Arts students wrote letters expressing our
thanks and best wishes to these brave men and women.
Photo showing some of the students and G.O. Officers who were involved in donating socks and candy, writing letters,
creating paper clip angels, and/or writing cards. Staff left to right back row include: Stephanie Brown, Michelle Koslow,
Carol Kelly, Bonnie Zubkovs, and Dr. Christy Baralis.
WhitmanWhitmanWhitmanWhitmanWhitman
2012 NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTION
Director Mr. Stephen Altinel, left, leads the Walt Whitman
After receiving their pins and congratu- Chorale in an excellent performance.
lations from Principal Acker, students
signed the register book. Zach
The inductees were introduced individually
as they received their pins from Principal
Whitman’s juniors recite the National Honor Cammer gets his opportunity to leave
his mark.
Acker. Here, Karla Thomas is all smiles.
Society Pledge as they are inducted.
On Monday evening, May 7th, 149 Juniors at Walt Whitman High School were inducted into the National Honor
Society in a ceremony that celebrated their high scholastic standing, leadership qualities, superior character, and
service to others. These students exemplify all of the qualities that the National Honor Society hold as fundamental.
2012 Walt Whitman NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTEES:
Cynthia Abad, Angela Acevedo, Elizabeth Aiello, Alice Antoniou, Cody Apollonia, Savannah, Aronson, Nikhil,
Bartolomeo, Nicholas, Baumann, Kathryn Bellissimo, Shannon Berchem, Mitchell Bermudez, Mattia Biancamano,
Brooke Bifulco, Kelly Bilodeau, Sean Bird, Casey, Blumberg, Marissa Booher, Sean Breen, Karen Brenseke, Kristina
Brigati, Emily Brostowin, Saidi Burgos, Asha Burwell, Christopher Calamari, Jacqueline Calamari, Brianna Calby,
Zachary Cammer, Danielle Canniff, Shavon Carbon, Emma Cary, Lingzhou Chen, Elsa Cheung, Thomas Chimenti,
Fatimah Choudhary, Jonathan Clough, Vincent Colapinto, Frank Coleman, Brandon Conklin, Patrick Conlon, Sean
Conlon, Courtney Cox, Jacqueline Crunden, Nicholas D Souza, Sarah Daquara, Jack De Palo, Samantha Delle,
Matthew Del Signore, Jake, Delorenzo, Stephen Dybus, Kieran Elmore, Christopher Emproto, Kelly Eng, Nicole Eng,
WHITMAN’S NICOLE KATZ WINS SUFFOLK VFW ESSAY CONTEST
As a young girl Nicole Katz vividly remembers her grandfather teaching her how to properly fold the American flag
on his front lawn. “'Never let it touch the ground,' my
Grandpa would say," recalled Nicole. "He
was an Army veteran of the Korean War and
when I was growing up, my parents always
instilled the sense of respect and honor for
those who fought for our freedom. When I
entered the Veterans of Foreign Wars
(VFW) 'Voices for Democracy' essay contest, I knew I would write about my grandpa
and how his experiences in the Army helped
make him the great man that he is, and how
that has had such a positive influence on his
kids and grandkids.”
Now a junior at Walt Whitman, Nicole is involved in just
about everything a young student can find time for. She is
president of the junior class, a member of varsity badminton and varsity tennis teams, and a member of both
English and Spanish Honor Societies. In addition, she
was recently inducted into the National Honor Society.
“Choosing Whitman was one of the best decisions I ever
made,” said Nicole. “It has been such a positive experience for me. I find so much to do and get
involved in here.”
In her spare time Nicole is also a Girl Scout,
and just last spring she earned her Silver
Award, the pinnacle of achievement for a
Cadet Girl Scout. “Girl Scouts are always
involved in different ways to show our gratitude
to our veterans,” continued Nicole. "Scouting’s
Silver Award is about courage, confidence,
and character, and it’s about making the world
a better place, something our veterans show
us every day,” said Nicole.
Every year, hundreds of thousands of students participate
in the Voice of Democracy Scholarship Competition.
Congratulations, Nicole, on winning first place in Suffolk
County.
WHITMAN WRITERS EXCEL
CONTEST
Whitman’s National Honor Society Officers left to right: Co-Presidents
Krysten Gonzalez and Matthew Potenza; Secretary. Djenane Jean; and
Treasure, Emily Flynn perform the candle lighting ceremony.
Patrick Farrell, Casey File, Emily Fisher, Kevin Forland, Florencia Forno, Robert Galvin, Jessica Garcia Vilorio,
Joseph Gonzalez, Amelia Goodman, Rachel Guida, Brian Haggerty, Jonathan Heller, Chan Kang, Nicole Katz, Navita
Khaira, Harry Kibirige, Alaina Kiesel, Lauren Kobel, Kitty Le Claire, Sixx Lisman, Matthew Lo Castro, Amanda Lund,
Kate Mallinson,Jessica Malone, Kevin Manning, Sarah Marchesiello, Scott Martin, Christopher Mc Partland, Hayley
Mena, Nicholas Mendez, Ricardo Mendoza, Sean Milanese, Casey Miller, Jayme Mintz, Jessica Mintz, Juan Moreno,
Dylan Muhlstock, Ryan Muhlstock, Amanda Natale, Samantha Negron, Lindsey Nyman, Alexandra O Toole, Selena
Ortiz, Eileen Panza, Isabelle Paolillo, Christina Peluso, Noelle Pilger, Giacomina Pirolo, Sophie Podhurst, Meghan
Powers, Noreen Purcell, Aniqa Raihan, Erin Reich, Alexander Remstein, Sarah Riordan, Nikki Rodgers, Stephanie
Romano, Anthony Sansotta, Stephanie Sawyer, Maclaine Scher, Eric Schmidt, Juliann Schneider, John Schramm,
Noelle Senior, Bilal Shah, Dwayne Sherland, Antonio Silveri, Stephanie Simon, Jenna Siracusano, Allison Stango,
Karla Thomas, Lindsy Tortorice, Alexis Trench, Sara Trimble, Emma Triolo, Blossom Ungurath, James Vallar, Steven
Van Gostein, Janery Vasquez, Christopher Vital, Raquelle Viteri, KellyJane Watson, Victoria Weisser, Maya Williams,
Brian Windisch, Nicholas Wurtz, and Sung Yoon.
Six at Whitman Win Poetry Contest
Whitman poets secured 6 of the 13
Poetry for the HART awards in the
2012 Poetry for the Hart contest and
subsequently selected for display
on Hart buses during the coming
months. These students were honored at an awards reception and
poetry reading at Walt Whitman’s
Birthplace recently.
The students and their entry titles
are as follows: Archaeological Dig”
by Blaise Addeo; "Corn" by
Alexandra Dukes; "Where I'm
From" by Djenane Jean; "Tow
Years Apart" by Taylor Neal; "How
To Be Human" by Eleni Toubanos;
and "Punctuation Poem" by Gabby Whitman poets left to right: Djenane Jean, Taylor Neal, Blaise Addeo, Gabby Ricciuti-Gomes,
Principal Kathie Acker, and Eleni Toubanos. Unavailable for photo was Alexandra Dukes.
Ricciuti-Gomes.
JACQUELINE CALAMARI IS ELECTED PRESIDENT OF
SUFFOLK COUNTY DECA
Resources for writers are everywhere, and for two young writers at Walt Whitman, a unique online source is allowing them to dig deep within
and express themselves on the page. Figment.com is an online creative community where you can share your writing, connect with readers,
and discover new stories and authors. Writing contests on Figment.com caught the attention of Amanda Strigaro and Melissa Somoza, two
Whitman sophomores.
Congratulations to Jacqueline Calamari who was elected
President of Suffolk County DECA recently at their regional dinner dance. Jackie, a Whitman junior, is a long time member of
the Walt Whitman High School DECA chapter and will now work
to promote the club throughout the county.
“As a writer I become an architect: I create my own worlds, building them brick by brick following the blueprints of my imagination,” wrote
Amanda Strigaro in her winning piece. “[My life] is influenced by other people--what they say and what they do. I write because I get to have
control over something.”
In addition, Nick Scover was awarded the annual DECA scholarship. Nick is the current President of Walt Whitman High School
chapter of DECA and is well deserving of this scholarship!
IN
PIPPIN TAKES HOME 2 HUNTING-TONY AWARDS
For Melissa Somoza, her English class at Whitman is her favorite part of
the school day. “I love the discussions we get into, because when you're
reading by yourself, you may not catch all the metaphors or symbolism the
author is trying to convey. In our class discussions, many new things come
out about what we’re reading that may have not been apparent at first.”
Amanda’s winning story, titled “To Be or Not To Be” was selected as a
winner and included in the "Why I Write" festival. Melissa’s winning
essay, titled "Losing Myself in a World I Create," describes how and
why she began to write. These talented aspiring writers have exciting
futures ahead of them, and for now as sophomores, they will be taking
them one chapter at a time.
left to right: Amanda Strigaro, Principal Kathie Acker and
Melissa Somoza.
Principal's List Awards Handed Out
There are flukes, and there is consistency, one of the things
we are most proud of at Walt Whitman is the consistency
with which our students perform. Great numbers of them on
any given day excel in a myriad of academic, athletic, and
other extracurricular activities. The Principal's List Awards
are for Whitman's academic achievers: students who
achieve a cumulative 3.5-year average of 95 or higher.
Congratulations to the following students: John Aiken,
Jeremy D. Allen, Steven Alvarado, Gregory N. Apostle, Saba
Babar, Joseph Babinski, Julie M. Bishop, Joseph J. Cairl,
David Cheung, Kenneth Scott Chin, Joseph Corbett,
Courtney M. Cox, Patrick J. Cummings, Megan Elizabeth
Dauscher, Nickolas De Nuzzo, Bryan A. Delgado, Samantha
Lyndsay Delle, Alexa R. Dickerson, Kaitlin Marie Dickson,
Cassidy Donovan, Cheyenne Alyssa Dowdle, Aine
Fitzgerald Coleman, Christina Victoravna Gaberman, Brian
P. Galvin, Shannon Richele Garofola, Alan Lennin Higuera
Ambriz, Jackson, Thomas Hoffmann, Natalie Theresa Jean,
Alvi Kabir, Leanna E. Kelly, Olivia Taylor Knott, Stephanie
Nicole Kostopoulos, Brian Avery Krainer, Christopher T.
Laucella, Jaclyn E. Leogrande, Gregory Linden, Arina
Litarov, Diego Lopez, Adam Joseph Manson, Jonathan A.
Maresca, Sean Alan Matus, Jacqueline McAllister, Michael
Mc Felia, Stephany Denisse Mendez, Annalyse Dawn
Moskeland, Ryan Vincent Naughton, Taylor E. Neal,
Michaela Rose O’Brien, Kenneth O’Neill, Kyle P. O’Rourke,
Taylor Nicole O’Toole, Emily Kate Olinsky, Pablo Xavier
Palacios, Abhishek Parekh, Frank E. Pepe, Matthew
Potenza, Kelly Powers, Elizabeth Quinn, Richard Rallo,
Gabrielle Ricciuti-Gomes, Gabrielle Hope Robertson, Alexa
Nicole Roccanova, Jonathan L. Ross, Lauren Scott Ross,
Fatima Lourde Saravia, Paramveer Singh, Michael J.
Smitelli, Sean Sondermann, Keil J. Thomas, Eleni
Toubanos, Christopher D. Tufo, Alyssa C. Vallar,
and Jaclyn Wirth.
The red carpet was out recently at Engeman Theater in Northport when
awards were handed out to performing arts students across the town for
their plays and musicals. The 2nd Annual Hunting-Tony Awards recognized the wonderful achievements in theater over the past year.
Congratulations to all the Whitman groups who were nominated in different categories. And, here are the results:
Best Choreography – Pippin – Walt Whitman High School
Best Ensemble – Pippin – Walt Whitman High School
Great job!!!
Senior Blood Drive Nets 98 Pints
Walt Whitman Seniors held their final Blood Drive of the year, and,
as part of handing off the baton, leaders of the Junior class were also
involved in this highly successful Spring Blood Drive. Last months
drive collected a total of 98 pints and the following students were the
senior captains: Saba Babar, Briceida Cisneros, Julie Cortese,
Andrew Daniels, Morgan Geiser, Theo Goodman, Sydnea Hamilton,
Leanna Kelly, Nak Young Kim, Amanda Nick, Ashley Pastore, Gabby
Ricciuti-Gomes, Emily Samuels, Alyssa Scuderi, Kaitlin Shepherd,
Sofia Skrepek, Mark Stepniewski, Krisitn Tiersch, Eleni Toubanos,
Derick Ulrich, Nicholas Wiershousky, Sam Augustine, Sam Bifulco,
Fuschia Ray, Ray Rizzo, Hasssina Naemmi, and Shanika Powell.
Walt Whitman Seniors, with a few Juniors learning the ropes, gather for their last blood drive of the year with Whitman Principal Ms. Kathleen Acker
left; and Senior Class Advisor Diane Langhorst-Zamow.
SportsSportsSportsSportsSportsSportsSport
WHITMAN'S GIRLS LACROSSE IMPROVING
“I'm very happy with our overall record as compared to last
year,” said Ms. Barbarajean Douglas, Whitman’s Varsity
Girls Lacrosse head coach. “The team spoke at the very
beginning of the season about their goals and what they
were looking to achieve, and they’re building chemistry and
getting better with each season.”
top junior who will be counted on is Casey File, who tires her
opponents out with her unparalleled stick skills and her ability to control the field.
Another of Coach Douglas’s not-so-hidden weapons is
The team is well balanced, with a
good mix of underclassmen. Led
by their senior captains Jackie
Lamay, Taylor O’Toole, and Kaitlin
Dickson, the Wildcats finished their
season 7-7 in Suffolk County’s
League 1. Seniors Samantha Delle
and Michaela O’Brien added additional leadership support, and all
seniors on the team will be missed
next year. “Jackie is such a tough
all round midfielder,” said Coach
Douglas. “She brought strong
defensive skills and complimented
Taylor's strong attack skills. Kaitlin
Dixon, who moved from attack to
midfield, brought her incredible
speed and helped transition the Junior Julia Kranz heads to the goal.
ball. This gave Michaela, who has such a strong shot, added
opportunities for scoring.” With all that senior talent, perhaps
the one player who epitomized what this year’s Wildcats
were all about was Samantha. “Samantha brought the heart
and her spirit of hard work and dedication,” said Coach
Douglas.
Nevertheless, it’s the underclassmen who will need to take
the leadership reigns next season, and Coach Douglas is
counting on her exceptional goalie, junior Chyna Jones.
“Growing up taking shots in the goal from big brother Myles,
Chyna is fearless,” said Coach Douglas. “She is the heart
and voice of the defense, and her presence in the goal has
helped our defense get stronger with each game.” Coach
Douglas will also be looking to Nicole DeLuca, an outstanding eighth grader, and to Essence Casey and Julia Kranz,
both juniors, each of whom bring their own set of strengths,
garnered from basketball and soccer, respectively. Another
A welcome surprise was the play of junior Troy Haas who
played through injury impressing his coach so much so that he
will join junior teammate Brandon Stone as next year’s captains. “Brandon and Troy show exceptional leadership qualities.” added coach Nichols. Derek Zadrozny had a strong year
in doubles and Justin Park posted an undefeated season until
the playoffs.
Whitman softball coach Ms. Jessica Kozlowski surprised a
few people this year with how well her young team played.
“We have three great seniors who demonstrated great leadership day in and day out,” said Coach Kozlowski. “The team
never gave up, worked extremely hard, and, above all, loved
to play the game and have fun.”
Senior captains Morgan Geiser, Brianna Calby, and Ashley
Goforth were all instrumental in the team's successes, but
probably this year's biggest surprise was their pitching.
”Without a doubt, our pitching kept us in many games,” said
Coach Kozlowski. “Our pitchers stepped up big time, and two
of them are freshmen, so we will be well set for next year.”
Sparks of solid play managed to upset powerhouses
Smithtown East and East Islip, but they failed to ignite enough
fire to take the team to this year’s playoffs. Nevertheless,
“Both of those games were huge for us as a team” said
Sophomore Nicole Kleet has a knack of finding the goal.
Strong play and leadership skills from Juniors Essence Casey #22
and Chyna Jones #36 will be counted on for next year.
sophomore Nicole Kleet. “With her uncanny knowledge of
the game, I'm excited about her prospects,” said Coach
Douglas.
“This was a very successful group of girls this year,” she
added. “The natural leaders mentor the younger players,
and each year as we grow, we better our record and get
closer to being a playoff-caliber team. Who knows? Maybe
next year is that year.”
BOYS TENNIS POSTS ANOTHER STRONG SEASON
By beating Bay Shore 6-1 in the Suffolk quarterfinals, the boy’s
wildcat varsity tennis team avenged the loss to Bay Shore in
last years’ playoffs. But Whitman advanced to the next round
where they met #1 ranked Hills East and lost 6-1. “Hills East
has always given us a hard time.” said coach Erika Nichols.
“Two of our best players; Brandon Stone and Mike McFelia
went undefeated the whole season until they met up with Hills
East.” But the wildcats did have a great season with strong play
from senior captains Greg Linden and Mike McFelia.
WILDCAT SOFTBALL: Successful
Growing Pains and Having Fun
Left to right: Congratulations to Greg Linden and
Derek Zadrozny who have received All-League
honors; to Justin Park - All-Division honors;
Michael McFelia – All-County; and
Brandon Stone – All-State!
Whitman senior Brianna Calby waits for her pitch.
APRIL ATHLETES
Coach Kozlowski. “Our pitching ruled the Smithtown East
game, with Jenna Piromalli, a freshman, keeping us in the
game. And Ashley Goforth’s two-run single in the bottom of
the sixth gave us the 5-2 lead.” In the East Islip upset, Rachel
Guida hit a grand slam in the fifth to tie the game at 5. Then
the Wildcats' Morgan Geiser hit a walk-off single, scoring
Brianna Calby for the win. Whitman’s Linda Powell, another
freshman, pitched
the whole game, with
the last five innings
being hitless and
scoreless. “To battle
with so many of
these good teams
and never really be
blown out, shows
how hard the girls
worked,” said Coach
Kozlowski. “To have
nine wins in what
was supposed to be
a rebuilding year for
the program--that's Eighth-grade pitcher Ariel
success. And it can Khatchatourian had a strong season
only grow from here.” and was a great surprise this year.
She will be counted on heavily next
year.
OF THE
MONTH
We finally caught up with our two distinguished athletes for the month of April. Juniors Jackie Crunden and Mike Damato, both members of spring track, have had a very successful month. Jackie, specializing in the high jump, posted her personal best for the year at
5’7” at a recent invitational meet. Jackie is currently tied for first place in the state for the high jump. She also participates in the 100
meter, hurdles, the triple jump, and the pentathlon. New for Jackie, the pentathlon consists of high jump, hurdles, 800-meter, long jump, and the shot put. “My first pentathlon
was at the recent Glenn D. Loucks Games in Westchester,” said Jackie. “This is a premier event for track throughout the NY metro area, and I placed fifth in the pentathlon,
so I’m excited to continue this event wherever I can.”
Mike loves to run, and run he does, from fall cross-country to winter indoor track to
spring track. Mike recently set a personal best in the 1 mile with an impressive time of
4:27 at the St. Anthony’s Invitational. “I always go out there and try as hard as I can,”
said Mike. “I always try to do the best I can in whatever I do.” Mike’s spring track schedule consists of the 1 mile, 2 mile, and relay. The great news is that Mike is a junior, so
Mike Damato and Jackie Crunden
the Whitman track program gets to keep him for one more year.
MARCH ATHLETES
OF THE
MONTH
Walt Whitman High School honored two distinguished athletes for the month of March, and both are lacrosse
players. Junior Casey File who recently switched from her defensive position to a midfielder is enjoying her
goal scoring contributions to the team. “I put a lot of hard work into my lacrosse training,” said Casey. “Its nice
to be recognized for that.” Casey is a member of the fall tennis and winter track teams as well.
Vincent Colapinto and his teammates are working towards a impressive
start for their Lacrosse season. Presently undefeated at 4-0, and sitting
in second place in the division one standings, Vincent, an Attackman,
has been an active scorer in each of their games. “We are a really good
team this year and I hope we can go far.” said Vincent. “There is a real- Whitman Principial Ms. Kathie Acker, cenly great camaraderie on this team.” Vincent also plays on the fall vol- ter with Casey File and Vincent Colapinto
leyball and winter track teams.
MINDS IN MOTION AWARDS TO 126 WINTER ATHLETES
South Huntington Athletic Director James Wright, left at Podium, congratulates 126 Minds in Motion Award recipients for the Whitman Winter Sports season. This award is given to varsity athletes who maintain a 90+ average during their sports season.
Congratulations to the following Minds in Motion athletes who were honored at the recent Sports Awards Ceremony:
Angela Acevedo, Jennifer Agell, Gregory Ahlsen, John Aiken, Erika Algierie, Robert Algierie, Jeremy Allen, Alexandria Alpy, Steven Alvarado, Scott Angevine, Gregory Apostle, Cpt; Joseph Babinski, Charles Bentler, Kelly Bilodeau, Cpt;
Sean Breen, Asha Burwell, Joseph Calderone, Zachary Cammer, Lingzhou Chen, Jacky Chen, David Cheung, Nicole Civello, Vincent Colapinto, Frank Coleman, Sean Conlon, Joseph Connolly, Julia Cranz, Jacqueline Crunden, Cpt;
Patrick Cummings, Cpt; Michael Damato, Sarah Daquara, Adam Doherty, Alexandra Dukes, Cpt; Kieran Elmore, Cpt; Christopher Emproto, Nicole Eng, Cpt; Vincent Feola, Anthony Feola, Emily Ferrante, Thomas Ferrante, Casey File,
Aine Fitzgerald Coleman, Kevin Forland, Crystal Friedman, Robert Gallipoli, Connor Galvin, Robert Galvin, Brian Galvin, Morgan Gieser, Haley Gladitsch, Paige Gladstone, Taylor Goehler, Cpt; Ashley Goforth, Cpt; Krysten Gonzalez,
Mgr; Patric Harrington, Eleanor Harvey, Cpt; William Heath, Christina Hernandez, Allysia Jones, Chyna Jones, Alvi Kabir, Chan Kang, Jack Karmen, Yoshitomo Kawasaki, Jillian Kelly, Harry Kibirige, Russell Kielawa, Alexandra Klysa,
Victoria Koutsantanou, Brian Krainer, Christopher Laucella, Millicent LeClaire, Kate Mallinson, Cpt; Alexander Marinos, Christopher McPartland, Hayley Mena, Casey Miller, Jonathan Mozoon, Ryan Muhlstock, Amanda Natale, Ryan
Naughton, Taylor Neal, Louis Negrelli, Kenneth O'Neill, Kyle O'Rourke, Alexandra O'Toole, Cpt, Christopher Olberding, Selena Ortiz, Abhishek Parekh, Christina Peluso, Frank Pepe, Kyle Perez, Samantha Piazza, Mgr; Kensey Portman,
Meghan Powers, Thomas Quit, Richard Rallo, Matthew Rebolini, Rafael Reyes, Kevin Rivera, Jonathan Ross, Kristin Rowe, Cpt, Michael Ruotolo; Danielle Saccente, Cpt; Benjamin Sakarin, Isabel Sakarin, Fatima Saravia, Cpt; Nicholas
Scover, Alyssa Scudieri, Cpt; Michael Smitelli, Cpt; Emily Stasi, Amanda Strigaro, Harold Sweezey, Lindsy Tortorice, Cpt; Nicholas Tremblay, Ellen Tricomi, Christopher Tufo, Rachel Ulrich, James Vallar, Alyssa Vallar, Mgr; Christian
Vitale, Daniel Wilson, Brian Windisch, Cpt; and Nicholas Wurtz.