March-April `13 spotlight - South Huntington School District

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
MARCH/APRIL 2013
FROM YOUR SUPERINTENDENT
It seems like the cold winter months might finally be behind us. The days are getting longer, the
weather is growing warmer, and there is a rejuvenating feeling in the air. We have certainly
endured our share of storms throughout the year
and we are all ready to embrace the promise of
a fresh spring season. There is a special sense
of energy in our school community that is sure to
fuel our continued success. The cooperative
spirit that characterized these first 8 months of
school has resulted in great accomplishment
and we look forward to closing out our
2012/2013 campaign in grand fashion. I welcome you all to join in the excitement and experience the numerous academic, athletic, and
artistic accomplishments in each of our district's
schools.
The past several months have also seen a bevy
of budget development activity. The Board of
Education and administration have been meeting regularly in an effort to produce a sound
2013/2014 spending plan. We have been fortunate to receive important input from the community and value the public participation in this
process. While the realities of decreasing revenues, tax cap limitations, and increased mandates have certainly presented their challenges
we have worked to create an educationally and
fiscally sound proposal. Although that balance
becomes more difficult each year, a series of
careful personnel reductions, position consolidations, and increased efficiencies should allow for
a sound district budget. We are confident that
the adopted budget allows us to further our
instructional goals while remaining respectful of
the taxpayer, and watchful of future budget scenarios.
We welcome everyone to join us in the coming
months and become part of the vibrant activity
that characterizes our district. Come on out and
enjoy a concert, view an art show, or attend one
of our many athletic contests. Also, feel free to
experience our numerous academic awards ceremonies, which showcase the scholarship that
makes South Huntington shine. There are special things taking place every day as the members of our learning family continue their quest
for academic and co-curricular excellence.
We hope to see you all very soon.
SILAS WOOD EDUCATOR RUFUS SHEPARD NAMED SOUTH HUNTINGTON TEACHER OF THE YEAR
It was a much-anticipated evening as the South Huntington Board of Education
and the district’s administrators gave well-deserved recognition and praise to
their top teachers during the annual Teacher of the Year celebration.
“It is our pleasure to highlight these great teachers, who have been identified by
their peers as possessing exceptional instructional skills and holding a strong
dedication to fostering the learning and growth of our students,” said Dr. Joseph
T. Centamore, Assistant Superintendent for Personnel and District Services.
South Huntington’s districtwide teacher of the year is Mr. Rufus Shepard, a
sixth-grade teacher at Silas Wood. “Mr. Shepherd is a well-rounded, positive
role model to all students that cross his path,” said Silas Wood Principal Steve
Toto. “He looks at the ‘whole child’ with a sense of understanding, holds them
to high expectations, and encourages them to be the best that they can be.”
Mr. Shepard’s rise to one of teaching’s most coveted honors was neither typical nor easy. After graduating Walt Whitman High School in 1985, Mr.
Shepard began working in South Huntington’s schools as a custodian while
attending college. In 1988 he became a full-time custodian at Walt Whitman.
Like so many, Mr. Shepard had a
strong desire to serve his country
and took a 2-year break to enlist in
the Army reserves. After several
years in the military, Mr. Shepard
decided to go back to school to earn
his master’s degree in education
and become a teacher.
Mr. Shepard reflects that he benefited
greatly from the encouragement he
received from his teachers and
coaches, who all helped him realize
that he had a profound ability to connect with people and make a differ-
HEALTH
AND
ence by bringing out the best in them. “I am truly grateful to my colleagues for
their support and nomination as Silas Wood teacher of the year,” said Mr.
Shepard, now in his twelfth year of teaching. “I am extremely honored and
humbled to be awarded districtwide teacher of the year, considering the quality of the teachers with whom I work.”
“Most importantly. I want to thank my parents, who instilled in me a sense of
purpose and the belief that I can accomplish anything that I put my mind to,”
continued Mr. Shepard. “Thank you for demanding nothing less than excellence. As a new teacher, I benefited greatly from my first department chairperson and my mentor, recently retired, Dr. Melvin Douglass. Dr. Douglass
required total professionalism, teaching me to have high expectations of my
students as well as myself.”
“Teaching is truly a family affair, and it’s great to see all our teachers of the
year surrounded by their families tonight,” said Schools Superintendent Dr.
David Bennardo. “I’m reminded of a quote that simply said, ‘They don’t care
how much you know until they know how much you care.’ And that is clearly
evident tonight as we see how students
have gone out of their way to put the
face of their favorite teacher on a tshirt, or our high school students jumping quickly to their feet for a teacher
they know, or our primary students,
whose faces light up when they hear
the name of their teacher called. I think
they have figured out the evaluation
system, I really do. Congratulations to
all these fine teachers, who make a difference and truly love what they do.”
Left to right: Superintendent Dr. Dave Bennardo, South Huntington Board of Education
President Mr. Jim Kaden, Assemblyman Chad Lupinacci, Silas Wood and District Teacher
of the Year Mr. Rufus Shepard, Silas Wood Principal Steve Toto, and Assistant
Superintendent for Personnel and District Services, Dr. Joseph T. Centamore.
WELLNESS FAIR BIGGER
Attendees at this year’s Health and Wellness Fair,
hosted by the South Huntington School District,
came away smiling and with their arms full of free
goodies and resources that will hopefully give
them the tools they need to live a healthier
lifestyle. Besides the enlightening educational
booths that let you know your blood pressure was
a little high, informed you about the therapeutic
benefits of a good massage, and told you about
the possible cause and remedy of those seasonal
sniffles, there was a booth that demonstrated one
of the world’s best options for minimally invasive
complex surgical procedures. The da Vinci®
Surgical System, brought to the fair by North
Shore LIJ Health System, is the centerpiece of a
robotically assisted surgical theater that allowed
fair attendees to get a true feel for what it must be
like to be a surgeon using this amazing piece of
robotic equipment.
The fair blended professionals in the areas of
physical therapy, nursing, cancer research, sports
medicine and safety, drug and alcohol counseling,
psychological services, weight loss, and many
more, with the energy and enthusiasm of our district’s students, who were eager to share why they
are up on all the very latest in healthy living.
Stimson’s Middle School SADD Club, under the
advisorship of Katie Herman and Katiana Pierre
Floyd, shared information on anti-bullying and why
it’s so important to make healthful decisions.
Countrywood led a heart-healthy demonstration
about why the hula-hoop is a fun way to stay in
shape. And right next to them were the students
from Oakwood, who encouraged attendees to participate in heart-healthy games. Oakwood students introduced their new Wii active entertainment system that they use in conjunction with their
physical education classes. The Wii System was
recently donated to Oakwood by SHEF. Silas
Wood premiered a fun “Eat This, Not That” exhibit that gave tasty as well as healthy alternatives to
many of our overly processed foods.
Suffolk County Legislator Dr. William R. Spencer
lent his professional advice at a fruit juice taste-off
sponsored by Maplewood Intermediate School, as
well as a photo op at “Shed the Meds” and
Operation Medicine Cabinet, sponsored by the
Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department and the
Suffolk County Police Department, respectively. In
preparation for the Birchwood’s Annual Blood
Drive on April 4th, Student Council advisors,
Penny Katehis and Janine D'Elia, along with student council members, set up an informational
table for donors to sign up for their Blood Drive.
Walt Whitman students in the SADD Club advocated for making healthy decisions, especially
behind the wheel, and the Red Cross Club brought
the world measles epidemic to the forefront, offering participants the opportunity to help remote villages around the word get vaccinated against this
common disease, which still kills more than 450
children each day.
THAN
EVER
The district-wide poster contest yielded excellent
results, and proud winners at each grade level
stepped up to receive their acknowledgements.
Back by popular demand was Dr. Schneider, a
locally renowned puppeteer and pediatric dentist
who delighted our littlest audience members as he
informed them about the importance of clean
teeth. St. Francis’s community health mobile was
in the district, providing free health screenings and
helpful information about easy ways to both lower
cholesterol and heart rate.
The Food Services Department gave parents a
picture-perfect display of all the healthy foods that
are offered to the district’s students. Food
Services also offered their own taste contest
between two new lunch entries with the winner to
be added to the menu. Which will win, beef
Bolognese or pasta primavera?
This year’s Health and Wellness Fair would not
have been possible without the dedication and
hard work of the district’s Health and Wellness
Committee, and Marian Raspantini, Jane
Samuels, and Charlie McTiernan. A very special
thanks to all the vendors, and to the North Shore
LIJ Hospital System for sending staff members,
doctors, and the da Vinci® Surgical Equipment for
students and guests to explore.
See you all next year, healthy and ready to learn
and explore why it’s never too early or too late to
be in charge of a healthy life and healthy body.
Be well,
Dave Bennardo
Operation Medicine Cabinet sponsored by Suffolk
County Police with school officials and Dr. Spencer.
Dr. Jared Bloom gets some time with the
da Vinci robotic surgery equipment.
The Acompora’s advocate having AED’s
in all school buildings.
Maplewood students are ready to assist
you in their survey.
PTANewsPTANewsPTANewsPTANewsPTA
PTA COMMUNITY WALK IS GROWING
BE PART OF THIS LASTING MESSAGE
A brick is a wonderful way to personalize your experience in the community. Your purchase of a brick helps PTA Council provide scholarships to graduating seniors. For
more information contact the South Huntington Council of PTAs at 631-812-3782, and
follow voice prompts to the PTA and leave a voice message. Someone will contact
you. Or you may download an application form on the PTA section of the South
Huntington Website: www.shufsd.org
Each year, two weeks prior to graduation,
that year’s bricks will be installed.
The deadline for your order is May 15th.
Any orders received after that date will be installed
in June of the following year.
Each 4” x 8” brick costs $100 and has up to
3 lines of copy.
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Jim Kaden
President
Nicholas R. Ciappetta, JD
Vice President
TRUSTEES:
Linda LaCara
Lisa Brieff
Edward Nitkewicz, JD
Laura Carey
Michele DeGaetano
YOU’RE INVITED...
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Regular BOE Business Meeting - BOCES Budget
Vote/Elections
7:30 PM Conference Room B- District Office
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Meet the Candidates Night
7:30 PM WWHS- South Cafeteria
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Public Hearing on Budget - Regular BOE Business Meeting
7:30 PM Walt Whitman PAC
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Budget Vote and Elections
3PM - 10PM WWHS
Regular BOE Business Meeting- 7:30 PM
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
Regular BOE Business Meeting
7:30 PM Walt Whitman PAC
DISTRICT OFFICE PERSONNEL
David Bennardo, Ed.D
Superintendent of Schools
Jacqueline Harris
Deputy Superintendent, Student Services
Joseph T. Centamore, Ed.D.
Assistant Superintendent, Personnel and District Services
Lawrence Light
Interim Administrator for Business
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
Web site: www.shufsd.org
Copyright © 2013 Bartholomew Associates Inc.
Comedy Night!
It’s Oakwood Primary Center’s biggest fundraiser of the year!
FEATURING THE COMEDY OF
CORY KAHANEY AND MOODY MCCARTHY
Please join us for a night filled with lots of laughter, good food and spectacular prizes!
We'll have amazing prizes to be won as our baskets are raffled off during the event!
Thursday, May 16, 2013 at 7pm
Crest Hollow Country Club
For additional ticket information contact Kim Phillips at: [email protected]
Tickets must be purchased in advance. Each $50 ticket includes a cocktail hour, dinner, coffee/tea
and dessert. Spouses, family and friends welcome! Cash bar available.
All proceeds are used to support our cultural arts programs and for advocacy for all of our students.
Maplewood PTA Serves Up a Great Fundraiser
Maplewood PTA recently held their big annual fundraiser at
Matteo’s Restaurant, and the event couldn’t have been more
successful or more enjoyable. Maplewood moms made it a night
to remember with enough
food, laughter, and camaraderie to last until next
year. Maplewood PTA
President Ms. Nancy
Hauser put together a
tremendous crew of volunteers to take care of everything, from an amazing
assortment of raffle baskets
to the last detail that makes
for a great event.
Proceeds from this event go to the many excellent cultural arts
programs that are brought in by the PTA for Maplewood
students.
The PTA would like to thank
the Maplewood school
community and the many
local businesses that gra- Cultural Arts committee members left to right: Irene Dunne, Mary Abbene, Kathleen Ugenti,
ciously supported this cul- Kathleen Thomann, PTA President Nancy Hauser, Principal Vito D'Elia, Karen Shaikh,
tural arts fundraiser. Pat Cellamare, Mary Beth Kraese, Sandy Yaeger, Andi Madrid, and Laura Morelli.
"CLEAN YOUR CLOSETS for SCHOLARSHIPS" USED CLOTHING DRIVE
DATE: Saturday, May 4th
TIME: 8 am to 3:30 pm (rain or shine)
WHERE: Walt Whitman HS North Gym parking lot. 301 West Hills
Rd, Huntington Station, 11746
For the 7th year we are collecting ALL GENTLY USED CLOTHING (men’s,
women’s & children’s), stuffed animals & soft household items, strollers & carseats. Including : SHOES, BOOTS,SNEAKERS, BELTS, HANDBAGS, BACKPACKS, BRIEFCASES, BEDDING, CURTAINS, TOWELS, small AREA RUGS,
TIES, HATS, SCARVES, GLOVES, STUFFED ANIMALS, DOLLS AND SMALL
HARD TOYS (no bigger than 24" x 24"), baby strollers
FRIENDS
OF
*PLEASE PUT ITEMS IN WELL TIED PLASTIC GARBAGE BAGS.
South Huntington PTA Council will be paid per pound collected. ALL FUNDS
RAISED WILL BE USED FOR SCHOLARSHIPS.
Questions? Email Jayne O'Toole at: [email protected]
Thank you for your support!
Donations will be sorted and shipped in containers to developing countries to
be reused (NOT ragged).Vendor has an"A" rating with the Better Business
Bureau.
SOUTH HUNTINGTON
The Friends of South Huntington continues to work to bring business and corporate sponsorships to support the various programs
in our schools. Our goal is to create win-win scenarios where local
businesses support our schools, while bringing important notoriety
to their establishments. We are offering a variety of advertising
and sponsorship opportunities ranging from electronic to print to
signage media. We ask that district residents reach out to any
business owners who might be interested in this special relation-
ship. We also ask
that you share our
newsletter
with
friends on your
email list and continue to patronize our generous sponsors. We
welcome interested individuals to contact District Public Relations
Specialist Steve Bartholomew at 631-812-3108 or Friends
President Dom Le Claire at: [email protected]
South Huntington Summer Music and Arts Program
The 2013 South Huntington UFSD Summer Music and Arts
Program will begin on July 1st, and continue through July 26th at
Walt Whitman High School. Each class meets daily for 45 minutes. Students may register for a full-morning program (5 classes) or a half-morning program (3 classes). Single classes are
available and the option to do an afternoon session at sports
camp is also available. NEW this year, the Summer Music and
Arts Program is offering specialized classes for high school students. We hope our website provides you with all the information necessary to plan an exciting summer arts schedule for your
child. Registration IS NOW OPEN!!! Please visit www.summermusicandarts.com for further information.
Allan Deitz Frank Yolango Summer Music Coordinators
AROUND THE DISTRICT AROUND THE DISTRICT AROUND
ST. BALDRICK'S DRAWS RECORD CROWD
Perhaps this will go down as one of the best St. Baldrick’s fundraising events in
South Huntington.
St. Baldrick's is an organization that raises money to help find a cure and treat
childhood cancers. Since the founding of St. Baldrick's, the survival rate of the
common cancers has risen to 85%. This is a good start, but more must be done.
All you had to do is volunteer your head to be shaved and get people to sponsor
you in the event. The heads being shaved is symbolic of the children who lose
their hair during cancer treatments.
Whitman’s St. Baldrick’s co-coordinators Mr. Jaime Rogers and Ralph Miranda
are please to report that the final tally could exceed $15,000 for this year.
As part of the annual event held at Walt Whitman High School, South
Huntington’s Maplewood Intermediate School pooled their resources and made
a big showing. Teachers received donations that allowed students to shave their
teacher’s heads. Students couldn’t resist, and of course the winners are the
many children battling cancer that the donations will go to.
STEM DIVERSITY SUMMIT
STEM talent as they presented their projects to judges
and competed for honors. The students were able to partake in panel presentations and discussions with leaders
in many fields as they learned about what makes STEM
education vital for their success as they consider life
beyond high school.
New York’s schools and colleges are making great progress
in developing STEM education, and as they partner with
major corporations, many new opportunities are beginning
to unfold. STEM education is critical to maintaining the
United States’ standing as a global leader in innovation and
to our ability to meet future workforce demands.
Students from Silas Wood Sixth Grade Center, Stimson
Middle School, and Walt Whitman High School enjoyed an
event-filled day, and school administrators learned from and
networked with other professionals in an effort to increase
awareness of STEM careers and the
need for more students to pursue
STEM majors. Mr. David Perkins,
LCSW, districtwide Project Excel
Coordinator in South Huntington, was
one of the summit's co-chairs. Dr.
Jared Bloom, South Huntington’s
Supervisor for Assessment,
Technology, Instruction and
Whitman students Kenneth Burton (at podium), Pater Guastella, and Pooja
Curriculum, was a moderator for a Navlani made their presentation on Autonomous vehicles.
panel that focused on bridging the
education/industry connection.
At this year’s STEM Diversity Summit, students from various
Long Island schools had the opportunity to show off their
Co-advisors Jaime Rogers and Ralph Miranda are pleased to announce that this
year, Whitman's Assistant Principal Mrs. Grady put her head forward to be
shaved to raise money towards this worthy cause. Ms. Grady received over
$4,000 in donations as her Irish locks fell to the floor. And she prompted other
South Huntington teachers to do the same.
Congratulations to the South Huntington Community for making this one of the
best ever St. Baldrick’s day events.
Summit 1st Place winner Jaida Morgan.
Maplewood students and teachers helped
make this year one of the best ever.
Mrs. Colleen Grady greets her
supporters.
WILDCAT SPORTS CAMP
SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED!
If you want sports then this is, dollar-for-dollar, the best deal around.
Whether it's Tennis, Volleyball, Field Hockey, Cross-Country,
Badminton or Bowling, Session 1 is for you. Perhaps your thinking
Football, Soccer, Cheerleading, Golf, Badminton or Bowling, well
we have all in Session 2.
Still looking? Session 3 has Basketball, Cheering, Wrestling, Fencing,
Tennis, and Ultimate Frisbee. You will find Lacrosse, Baseball, Softball,
Track & Field, and Volleyball in Session 4.
Each of our four sessions has a recreation camp, where you will be
energized with fun, age-appropriate activities.
See our Brochure on district website and use for registration.
We also offer a Wildcat Kids A-CAT-EMY for grades K-2 that is a fantastic way to introduce your little one to all the fun of summer camp.
Parents…. Need a little extra time before you’re able to pick up your
child? We have our extended Day Care for Summer Campers that
offers recreational activities until you arrive at 5PM. See information
on the district website under Athletics.
Congratulations to Jaida Morgan, who earned first place
with her Lego robot that was able to solve Rubik’s Cube in
3 minutes. Jaida, a sixth grader, would like to be a veterinarian some day, and she believes that robotics could
easily play a role in the care of animals. Congratulations
go to Jaida and her teacher, Mr. Paul Beaumont. The
third-place award went to Andrew Ferreri for his project,
titled "The Effect of Water Temperature on a Bottle Rocket
Launch." Congratulations are extended to Andrew and his
teacher, Ms. Marijean Scardapane.
STEM was in the air at Farmingdale State College. Now in
its third year, the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering,
and Mathematics) Diversity Summit is an opportunity for
educators and industry leaders to engage in collaborative,
cross-sector work. New York’s current and future economic
health depends greatly on the vibrancy of our STEM fields.
NATIONWIDE SURVEY NAMES
SOUTH HUNTINGTON
Many of our students were awarded
prizes for the quality of their presentations, and when the final awards
were presented, South Huntington
students took first- and third-place Mr. Marion Flunory, center, from Stony Brook University speaks with Walt
awards for middle school entries. Whitman students about his Marine Vertebrate studies that have earned him
the name the 'Shark Whisperer."
The South Huntington Union Free School District
Student Services Department Presents
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
The NAMM Foundation recently
announced the results of its 14th
annual “Best Communities for
Music Education” survey, which
acknowledges schools and districts across the U.S. for their
commitment to and support of
music education in schools. The
NAMM Foundation recognizes the South Huntington School
District for its outstanding commitment to music education with
a Best Communities for Music Education designation. South
Huntington joins 307 districts across the country to receive the
prestigious distinction this year.
"We are very excited to be ranked as one of the best communities in America for Music Education by the NAMM
Foundation,” said Dr. Dave Bennardo, Superintendent of
Schools. “This award speaks volumes about the talent of our
students and teachers as well as the importance that our parents and school district place upon music education."
South Huntington Schools Director for Art, Dance, Music, and
Adult Education, Vincent D’Ulisse said, "We are very fortunate
in that we receive tremendous support for the arts in South
Huntington, and are extremely proud of our music students and
their outstanding teachers."
THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2013 - 4:30-9:00PM
WALT WHITMAN HIGH SCHOOL, 301 WEST HILLS ROAD,
HUNTINGTON STATION, NY 11746
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CALL: (631) 812-3928
After registration, your evening begins with an audience-involved panel discussion focusing on many
of today’s hot topics for parents. There will be simultaneous English and Spanish speaking panels.
Parent University’s Free Workshop Topics Include:
• Bouncing Back! How to help your child think positively and succeed! • The Profile of a Successful
Student • Bullying and the Special Needs Child • Financial Literacy • Anger Management in the
21st century: Working with Adolescents • Racing to the Top: Coaching Students to Academic
Success • Parenting/Discipline • Bullying and Cyber-bullying: What Parents Need to Know •
Effective Study Habits that Promote Academic Success... and many more!
Special Vendor Gallery Includes:
•100 Black Men of Long Island •Adecco •Adelante •Bethpage Credit Union •Big Brother/Big Sisters •Boy
Scouts of America •Girl Scouts of America •Family Service League •HorseAbility •Huntington Youth Bureau
Institute Project Excel •Job Corp •Liberty Partnership Program •Long Island Gay and Lesbian Youth
•Sepa Mujer •SHUFD Student Services •South Huntington Against Drugs •The College Board •The Life Center
•Tri-County CYA •VIBS....and more!
Dinner and Parent University workshops are FREE. There will be 3 dinner sittings. Your ideal evening may
include 2 workshops and one dinner hour where you may visit the vendor gallery. On-site babysitting/child-care services
provided. Several workshops conducted in English and Spanish, with additional translation services provided.
ARTS IN EDUCATION FOUNDATION SHEF GOLF OUTING AT LOCAL COURSE
FUNDRAISING DINNER
The Music and Arts Booster Club, which remains committed to
supporting the arts, continues to grow and plan for the future. Our
fundraising efforts are gaining steam, and we look forward to supporting programs throughout our South Huntington District.
We invite you to join us for our very first Annual Arts in Education
Foundation Fundraising Dinner. There will be performances by
various South Huntington music ensembles, Dance and the Visual
Arts.
There will be plenty of fantastic raffle baskets and ‘original’ artwork
will be sold in a silent auction. Join us and help support the Arts
in Education Foundation as they help support our children.
When: April 24th- 7 PM - 10 PM
Where: Crest Hollow Country Club
$65 per person
Any donations or payments for the SHAIEF Fundraising Dinner at the
Crest Hollow on April 24 must be made payable to Friends of South
Huntington with SHAIEF noted in the memo portion of the check.
The South Huntington Educational Foundation (SHEF) will host its 16th annual Golf Outing at
Crab Meadow Golf Club on Monday, July 1st 2013.
12:00 Noon -1:30 p.m. Lunch at the clubhouse and use of Driving Range
1:30 p.m. Shotgun Tee Off with Beer, soda & snacks on the course throughout the day.
Prizes, Raffles, Hole-In-One Contest, Beat the Pro and more.
Following Golf (Approximately 6:30 p.m.) Cocktails and Dinner Celebration
Honoring our special guest. Event also includes a Sports Memorabilia & Art Auction
SHEF’s honoree this year is Mr. Raymond Spatafora
Ray’s hard work, dedication, and tremendous support to the Huntington community are widely respected.
He is a well-known figure at Walt Whitman High School, where he is currently serving as supervisor for
security, confidant to students, and the all-round guy who always knows what’s going on.
Ray is a 1973 graduate of Walt Whitman High School. He raised his four daughters here in Huntington Station while working as
supervisor for the Town of Huntington HART bus system for 32 years. He joined the Huntington Manor Fire Department in 1982, is a lifetime
member, and he is currently fire commissioner. His service to our community also includes serving as youth mentor for the Tri-CYA Youth Agency
Teen Center, local representative for Suffolk County Legislator Lou D’Amaro, and project EXCEL mentor.
Cost for the day is either $190. (golf and dinner) for registrations prior to June 7 or $199. thereafter. Cocktails and dinner only
is $80. ($90.00 after June 7). Event, Dinner, Gold, Silver, Tee, and Friends of SHEF sponsorships are available. Donations of
any amount are welcome. Brochures are available in all South Huntington schools as well as in the district office. For sponsorship opportunities or additional information, please go to: www.shufsd.org ➠ Community ➠SHEF or call 631-812-3000 for
the South Huntington Education Foundation (SHEF).
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
OAKWOOD TEACHER
OF THE
YEAR
AFRICAN AMERICAN HALL OF FAME
Researching for an African American Hall of Fame
Poster series, students learned to use the 5W’s:
Who, When, Where, What and Why. Using a list of
20 famous African Americans to choose from, or
researching someone else (except a sports figure)
students created posters that included photos that
they found while researching their project.
Patrick Tighe
““Mr. Tighe is a natural teacher.
Mr. Tighe produces exceptional
and creative work with students.
I think that the American Poet,
Robert Frost, had Mr. Tighe in
mind when he stated, ’I am not
a teacher, I am an awakener.’
Administrators, teachers, parents
and children adore him!”
- Principal Eileen Kerrigan
100TH DAY
OF
SCHOOL
Blow a whistle; give a cheer the 100th day at Oakwood
School is here! On February 28th Mrs. Renda’s Kindergarten
class celebrated the 100th day of school. The children invited
a family member to the classroom to celebrate this special
day. The party guests helped the students draw a hundred
things on a 100th day crown
and make a necklace out of
100 fruit loops. They even
shared a snack of 100 goldfish crackers. ”Fun” hundred
was had by all!
CLIMB ABOARD
Ms. Kerrigan
Mr. Tighe
WE ALL LAUGH IN THE
SAME LANGUAGE
Oakwood’s Dual Language second graders along with singer
songwriter Marla Lewis were the featured entertainment at this
year’s Long Island Teachers’ Institute on Thursday, March 14.
This conference brought together educators from all over Long
Island who are engaged in English as a Second Language
(ESL) and bilingual education. The second grade dual language singers performed several songs and read a poem
under the watchful direction of Oakwood music teacher Ms.
Luella B. Pinelli. The students sang Ms. Lewis’s song "We All
Laugh in the Same Language," a tune that celebrates diversity.
In February, Ms. Baumbach’s 1st grade class had a special visit from one of our students’ father, Mr. Atkin. He is
a Police Officer and EMT. In preparation for our class trip
to Huntington Hospital next week, he came and spoke to
our class about Emergency and safety procedures. After
a brief discussion in the classroom about what an emergency is and what to do during an
emergency, Mr. Atkin brought an
ambulance to Oakwood where the
children were able to climb aboard
and explore. All of the students were
able to get their heart rate checked
while inside the ambulance. He brought with him hats,
special badges, and emergency charts for each child to
take home. They truly enjoyed this experience and are
ready for our hospital visit! A big thanks to Mr. Atkin for
giving our class this experience and opportunity!
OAKWOOD SUPPORTS GO RED FOR WOMEN
Happy 100th day of school!
Donna Farkas, first-grade teacher at Oakwood Primary
Center is pleased to report that she has had great success
in signing up the Oakwood teachers and staff for this important effort to help call attention to the Nation’s number one
killer of women- heart disease.
Oakwood staff wore their pins with pride as they helped support the Go Red for Women movement sponsored by the
American Heart Association. The staff at Oakwood joined
together on Valentine’s Day to capture a group photo.
CountrywoodCountrywoodCountrywood
COUNTRYWOOD TEACHER
Laura Van Tassell
“Laura loves what she does and it
shows in the faces of the children
she spends her time with each and
every day. She has taught them to
never give up, always do their best,
and take pride in their successes.
Laura advocates for the parents of
the bilingual students so that they
are provided with opportunities to
be involved in their children’s
educational development.”
- Principal Barbara Kenney
OF THE
Ms. Kenney
YEAR
Ms. Van Tassell
GREEN EGGS AND HAM
On March 1st, Mrs. Wright’s
Kindergarten class celebrated
Read Across America / Dr.
Seuss’ birthday. The children
had been reading Dr. Seuss
books all week long and were
learning to recognize rhyming
words. The week culminated
with the children making hats
similar to the Cat in the Hat with words that rhyme.
Mrs. Njenga also came in as a guest reader and read
Green Eggs and Ham. After reading the book to the
class the children graphed if
they thought they would like
green eggs and ham. As a special treat they got to try real
thing. We then voted again and
found “We really do like Green
Eggs and Ham, Sam I am!”
GOT RHYTHM?
At Countrywood Primary Center, the Rhythm and
Movement program for the Kindergarten students consists
of dance, exercise, and lots of fun! While grooving to
music we not only get our heart rates up but create unique
dance sequences students practice and then perform on
stage. Our song choices range from The Lion King’s “I
Just Can’t Wait to Be King” to an Aboriginal inspired
acoustic instrumental piece. Students have the rare
opportunity to work up a sweat while expressing themselves through movement. The up tempo song “I like to
Move it, Move it!” from Madagascar 2: Escape 2 Africa
has become the most popular routine with both aerobic
dance and Zumba influences. We look forward to completing the school year with new and exciting dances that
facilitate both fun and fitness!
TWINKLE TWINKLE
SUCCESSFUL BLOOD DRIVE
The first graders in the Schwartz Wilcox Community visited the Countrywood Star Lab as a culmination of their
study of Space. The children were able to locate constellations they had been studying, which are part of our
night sky - Orion and Ursa Major. They were also able to
identify the stars that are part of these different constellations. They found Polaris, also known as the North Star.
This is the same star that explorers have been using for
centuries to guide their travels across the oceans. The
students looked amazed as they discovered such exciting
information and were eager to stay up late to look at the
sky in their own backyard!
As a result of the collaborative efforts of PTA and the secondgrade Student Council (under the leadership of Ms. Burr and
Ms. Trebour), Countrywood once again conducted a very
successful blood drive. On February 8, Long Island Blood
Services (LIBS) collected 61 donations, which, according to
LIBS, will help to save the lives of over 180 people. Students
from kindergarten to second grade helped advertise the
event beforehand with creatively designed posters, which
were proudly displayed throughout the building. On February
8, dressed in blue scrubs, the Student Council “little doctors”
served refreshments to all the donors and thanked them personally for donating the gift of life.
The first shift of Countrywood's little doctors are joined by,
left to right back row: Ms. Trebour, Principal Kenney, and
Assistant Principal Kellie Njenga.
BirchwoodBirchwoodBirchwoodBirchwood
BIRCHWOOD OPENS THEIR HEARTS!
BIRCHWOOD TEACHER OF THE YEAR
The Pajama and Book Drive, hosted by the Birchwood
Student Council is underway. Birchwood families have
been donating new, cozy pjs’ and new books to children
in need, and more is needed, especially during what is
considered the danger season, where extreme cold temperatures grip the region. All donations will be given to
the Pajama Program, a non-profit organization, which
will provide these comforts to children who are waiting to
be adopted.
Lisa Crocco
“Mrs. Crocco has encountered
students whose emotional needs got
in the way of their ability to focus
in class. Lisa will work with the
children to teach them strategies to
help them control their emotions and
anxieties so they can focus on their
academics. She nurtures her
students by providing a calm and
structured environment that fosters
growth socially, emotionally and
academically.”
- Principal Anthony Ciccarelli
“This program is the perfect way to teach our children
about those in need.” Said Long Island Chapter
President, Danielle Bonfanti in her message on the
pajamaprogram website. “Every child loves pajamas
and loves a bed time story.”
Mr. Ciccarelli
Way to Go Birchwood community for delivering warm sleepwear and nurturing books to
children in need.
Mrs. Crocco
A SHARED DECISION-MAKING TEAM AT BIRCHWOOD
At Birchwood School, the mission of the SBM Team is to improve
education for all children. The South Huntington School District’s
mission, vision, beliefs, guidelines, and objectives determine what is
to be done, and the SBM Team decides how to do it. Members of the
team represent the students, teachers, administrators, and
non-instructional staff at our school. Each constituency has a
predetermined number of representatives and is selected in a
predetermined manner.
Individuals who become members of the team observe rules
of ethical conduct and are pledged to fulfill their responsibilities and maintain confidentially in the process that is followed.
The members of Birchwood’s SBM Team are as follows: students--Pamela Carey and Gregory Borysowski; parents-Michelle Murphy, Carmela Posillico, and Rosanna Meberg;
paraprofessional--Jackie Conlo; teachers--Patricia Wilkinson,
Kristen Lopez, Ian Denson, and Krista Legge; administrators-Anthony Ciccarelli and Annie Michaelian.
Our Birchwood SBM Team has just made a special-delivery
donation to the Huntington Hospital Emergency pediatric unit.
Birchwood students decorated 25 ceiling tiles with an underwater-life
theme. The students worked diligently in their art classes to paint the
sea creatures and place their thumbprints on each tile. We are proud
to send this cheerful SBM donation to Huntington Hospital.
Dr. Eric Hoppa, Associate Director of Pediatric Emergency
Medicine at Huntington Hospital stopped into Birchwood to pick up
the ceiling tiles. “These tiles are absolutely beautiful and will help
cheer up the children who are in the Pediatric Emergency
Department,” said Dr. Hoppa. Huntington’s Pediatric
ED is a separate 6-bed unit specially designed to be
kid friendly. The unit is staffed with pediatric nurses
and pediatric physicians and contains all the
resources of a regular Emergency Department.
“These beautiful and colorful tiles will be able to distract the children having procedures," said Dr. Hoppa.
"They will be able to look up at the ceiling and talk
about the fish or seahorse, and the tiles will brighten
the area and help make it more kid-friendly.”
Adults left to right: Carmela Posillico, Michelle Murphy, Annie Michaelian, Dr. Eric Hoppa, Krista Legge,
Rosanna Meberg, Patricia Wilkinson, Kristen Lopez, and Ian Denson. Students: Birchwood 5th grader
Gregory Borysowski, and 4th grader Pamela Carey.
Dual Language Singers
Perform @ PTA Council
On Monday March, 5th the Birchwood dual-language classes had the privilege of performing for
the PTA Council. The performance, which was led
by Birchwood’s music teacher Paul Kosak, consisted of two songs which celebrated the juxtaposition of diverse cultures. An English/Spanish
arrangement of, “Sing” was followed by a “Picnic of
the World” that was accompanied by colorful student-created flags from around the world. It was
truly a wonderful celebration of the many cultures
that make up the South Huntington family.
If you have any suggestions for the SBM Team, you
may contact them at [email protected], or you
can send in a note to the main office labeled "SBM."
MaplewoodMaplewoodMaplewoodMaplewood
MAPLEWOOD TEACHER
Dermot O’Connor
OF THE
YEAR
HEART HEROES AT MAPLEWOOD
Maplewood Intermediate School is celebrating its 10th anniversary
participating in the Jump Rope for Heart Program. This year the
third and fourth- graders had the opportunity to volunteer to help
raise money for the American Heart Association.
“Dermot is a well-respected member
of the Maplewood community.
Staff members seek his expertise
on a number of topics and he is
always willing and able to lend
assistance. Parents have
commended him as well for his
work with children and he is a
much sought after teacher
regarded as one of our
District’s finest.”
- Principal Vito D’Elia
On February 20th and 21st, over 80 students attended the special
before school programs where they received a refresher course
about the different parts that make up the heart and what they are
responsible for, donations to the American Heart Association from
family and friends were collected, and then they got the opportunity to get their little hearts pumping at various exercise stations.
Mr. D’Elia
Mr. O’Connor
JUDICIAL SYSTEM ON DISPLAY AT MAPLEWOOD
Will it be a fairytale ending for Goldilocks, or will she be sentenced to community service or possibly even prison for
breaking the law? Maplewood’s fifth graders took part in
"The Trial of Goldilocks," during which they were responsible for deciding Goldilocks's fate.
For several weeks, Glen Vogel, a local attorney known
around the school as "Lawyer Dude," introduced
Maplewood’s fifth graders to our government’s judicial system by inviting them to participate in an actual
trial. This year another local attorney, Suzanne
Manaseri, now known as "Lawyer Lady,"
assisted Mr. Vogel.
In "The Trial of Goldilocks," defendants such as
Goldilocks's parents, her best friend Little Red
Riding Hood, Sly Fox, Rocky Raccoon, and
Wise Old Owl, to name a few, took the stand to
convince a group of fifth-grade jurors that
Goldilocks did not trespass and cause destruction to the home of Mama Bear, Papa Bear,
and Baby Bear.
The witnesses, namely The Bear Family, Big Bad Wolf,
Blind Mouse, Chicken Little, and Gingerbread Boy, took the
stand to prove Goldilocks's guilt. A full courtroom enjoyed a
wonderfully witty and creative story acted out by an equally
fabulous group of Maplewood’s fifth graders, who were able
to develop an understanding of how a trial unfolds through
acting. All participants benefited from this fun, interactive
learning experience.
Lawyers Suzanne Manaseri and Glen Vogel, instruct the jury.
Maplewood’s staff also got involved by showing their support during the “Go Wear Red Day”, which also raises money for the
American Heart Association. The Maplewood community is all
working together to be Heart Heroes!
Students jumping triangles and ladders builds endurance.
CELEBRATE CALM DELIVERS
THE
RIGHT MESSAGE
Are you tired of the power struggles, yelling, and sibling fights? Want to stop the defiance and disrespect? Becoming
exhausted as you try to make everyone happy? Kirk Martin and his son Casey may just have the answer. It’s called
"Celebrate Calm.” This special program, co-sponsored by the Maplewood PTA and the Student Services Department,
provided attendees with a “tool kit” of strategies to manage the countless stresses of everyday life.
A series of workshops were presented recently in South Huntington. One group of 3 workshops, conducted by Casey
for Maplewood's third, fourth, and fifth-grade classes, was geared especially toward young students. Another presentation, held at Stimson Middle School one evening last week, was conducted by father and son and was for parents
only. Additionally, a presentation, at the District Offices during the day was for Administrators and Student Services
Personnel. “This was such a powerful and informative presentation,” said Ms. Jacqueline Harris, South Huntington’s
Deputy Superintendent in charge of the district’s Student Services Department. “It is always a pleasure to see our community come together for such an important common purpose.”
Casey Martin with a group of Maplewood students.
StimsonStimsonStimsonStimsonStimson
STIMSON TEACHER OF
Vasken Kazangjian
THE
YEAR
GEOGRAPHY BEE CHAMP GOES TO STATE COMPETITION
Quick: Which Canadian province produces more than
half of the country's manufactured goods? Don’t know?
Then try this one: To visit the ruins of Persepolis, an
ancient ceremonial capital of Persia, you would have to
travel to what present-day country?
“Mr. Kazandjian’s enthusiasm
for teaching and the enjoyment
he receives in students’ learning
can be observed on a daily basis
within his classroom and on the
field. His colleagues welcome his
guidance and support in this
informal capacity. Mr. Kazandjian is
a teacher leader in every aspect.
Mr. Kazandjian goes above and
beyond the classroom in every way.
Principal Faye Robins
If you don’t know the answers to the above questions off
the top of your head, don’t feel bad. Not many people do.
There is one eight-grader at Stimson Middle School who
does, though. His name is Benjamin Nace and he will be
heading up to the New York State National Geography
Bee in Albany on Friday, April 5 to compete in the 2013
New York State National Geographic Bee. Each year
thousands of schools in the United States participate in
the National Geographic Bee using materials prepared
by the National Geographic Society.
Ms. Robins
Mr. Kazangjian
FOUR PERFECT PEBBLES AT STIMSON
How to keep close to five hundred Stimson 8th graders
quiet and on the edge of their seats?
With Four Perfect Pebbles, the story of Marion Blumenthal
Lazan and the incredibly moving first-hand account of her
family’s Nazi concentration camp imprisonment and liberation.
Marion’s story of courage, hope, and the will to survive
illustrates the importance of positive thinking, creativity,
inner strength, and tolerance. Mrs. Lazan
is author of Four Perfect Pebbles: A
Holocaust Story, a memoir. Following
Hitler’s rise to power, the Blumenthal
family – father, mother, Marion, and her
brother Albert – were trapped in Nazi
Germany. They eventually managed to
get to Holland, which soon thereafter was
occupied by the Nazis. For the next six
and a half years, the Blumenthals were
forced to live in refugee, transit, and
prison camps, including Westerbork in
Holland and the notorious Bergen-Belsen
in Germany. Although they all survived
the camps, Walter Blumenthal, the father,
succumbed to typhus just after liberation.
With sensitivity and patience, Mrs. Lazan
captivated the Stimson eighth-grade
audience. “Her presentation echoed the
way we would like our students to treat
each other – to be tolerant of others and
not stereotype individuals based on reli-
gious belief, color, race, or national origin,” said Stimson
Principal Faye Robins. In speaking with her students, Ms.
Robins shared that her father was also a survivor of Nazi
prison camps, and encouraged her students to respect
each other’s differences.
This wonderful opportunity for our Stimson students to hear
this first hand account from a living Holocaust survivor was
made possible by the PTA Cultural Arts Program.
Ben is a member of Stimson’s National Junior Honor
Society, and is a student leader in his classes and a
member of the Stimson orchestra. “We are so proud of
Ben’s accomplishments.” Said Principal Ms. Faye
Robins. “We know that he will represent Stimson well at
the state level and wish him the best of luck!”
Principal Robins had high praise for Ben’s teacher Mr.
Keith Gunsel. “An active member of the Stimson family,
as a teacher, and a coach, Mr. Gunsel demonstrates the
highest levels of professionalism, ethical conduct, and
integrity.” Said Principal Robins. “Mr. Gunsel can often
be found providing additional support to our students and
our programs. When we needed someone to take the
lead on the geography bee, Mr. Gunsel offered to coordinate this on his own time, showing once again that Mr.
Gunsel, like many of our teachers, extend themselves to
our students and our community on a daily basis.”
Principal Faye Robins and teacher Mr. Keith Gunsel congratulate
Benjamin Nace.
Sweet Way to Raise Money for Cancer Research
Each year Ally Gottesman dresses up in a different costume
and heads to the neighbors' houses. All of them. You see,
Ally has already written to about 100 of her neighbors to let
them know what she will be dressed as. This past year it
was the Harry Potter character Bellatrix Lestrange. So when
the throngs of Halloween ghosts and goblins descend upon
the Ally’s neighborhood seeking treats, this Stimson eighth
grader is collecting something a lot more meaningful.
lected and donated more than $16,000, that goes to the Don
Monti Memorial Research Foundation in Cold Spring
Harbor, which recently honored Ally at their annual ball. “It
gives me a great feeling, and
I enjoy doing it,” said Ally in
an interview published
recently in Newsday.
Ally, you make the Stimson,
and all of South Huntington
community, proud!
Ally’s aunt died of cancer around Halloween back in 2006,
and to commemorate her late aunt's life, she collects donations instead of candy. Over the past 6 years Ally has col-
ISLAND HARVEST AT STIMSON
Island Harvest was at Stimson Middle School today to receive a check
for $1,000 that was donated by Ms. Schmitt’s seventh-grade class, this
year’s winning Penny Wars team. “Thank you so much for helping Island
Harvest with our Post-Sandy relief efforts,” said Island Harvest volunteer
and Huntington representative Mr. Jim Broderick. Island
Harvest celebrated their 20th anniversary last year by distributing over 8 million pounds of food, with a market value
of $16 million, in the past year.
Mrs. Lazan glances over to her husband Nathaniel as she announces that they will celebrate
their 60th Wedding Anniversary this summer.
Ninety-five cents of every dollar Island Harvest collects
goes directly to food programs, making them a highly
efficient charitable organization. “With this generous
donation, Stimson Middle School plays a big part in our
efforts, and on behalf of Island Harvest, I want to thank
you for this,” added Mr. Broderick. “Many local businesses help us out--here in the South Huntington community
Panera Bread is doing an exceptional job--but at times
it’s still not enough, so we must purchase food as well.
This donation will go to help purchase food items.”
Congratulations Stimson Middle School and Ms. Schmitt’s seventh
graders for selecting such a worthy cause.
Ms. Schmitt and her 7th grade class pose with Assistant Principal Anthony Sansotta
and Mr. Jim Broderick of Island Harvest.
SilasWoodSilasWoodSilasWoodSilasWood
SILAS WOOD TEACHER
OF THE
YEAR- SEE FRONT PAGE
ABC NEWS ANCHOR PHIL LIPOF VISITS SILAS WOOD
Award-winning journalist Phil Lipof, an ABC news
anchor and journalist, visited Silas Wood Sixth
Grade Center today and made a presentation to
the students and teachers.
Silas Wood’s teachers taught a lesson recently
titled, "The Power of Journalism." The lesson and
conversations were motivating, exciting, and highly
engaging. Students were asked to brainstorm a list
of "perks" of the job, which led to great discussions.
Students also read an article about journalism, and
each team created five questions that they were
going to ask Mr. Lipof during the assembly.
Mr. Lipof gave a brief introduction about himself
and his experiences, including a special behindthe-scenes video he made for the students. He
then conducted a question-and-answer session,
wading deep into the crowd of students to give
everyone a chance to ask his or her question.
Mr. Lipof captivated
Silas
Wood’s students
and staff with
many stories that
kept everyone
wanting more.
BLOOD DRIVE NETS 39 UNITS
Silas Wood's future physicians were on hand to
assist with their annual Blood Drive on Monday
evening. The students took shifts with a new
group participating every hour. Silas Wood
Principal Steve Toto and Administrative Dean Dr.
Christy Baralis wish to thank the Silas Wood
community for their support. The successful
drive netted 39 units of blood.
STEM HIGHLIGHTS SILAS WOOD CURRICULUM FAIR
There was something exciting in the air at Silas Wood Sixth Grade
Center the other night. Their annual Curriculum Fair was underway,
and as students led their families through the welcoming doors, you
could see the pride on their faces.
a greater interest in and understanding of the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics,” said Silas Wood Principal Mr. Steve
Toto. “The Curriculum Fair is a powerful tool for teaching and engaging
students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.”
Students at the Sixth Grade Center and at Stimson Middle School
and Walt Whitman High School have been focusing on an area that
has been getting welcome attention recently. The nationwide movement is called STEM, and it stands for Science, Technology,
Engineering and Mathematics.
Students were given the opportunity to choose one of four projects;
1) Person of Accomplishment, 2) Weather Instrument, 3)Rube
Goldberg, 4) Scientific Method.
STEM is intended to strengthen our economic and workforce development. In short, the STEM arena is where the jobs are going to be
and is the subject area in which students need to excel in order to
be competitive in the workplace. South Huntington’s schools have
been promoting STEM subjects for a while now, helping to ensure
that our students are competitive in the 21st-century job market.
“The Silas Wood Curriculum Fair, with its STEM focus, is a way of investing in challenging, rigorous educational strategies to guide our students to
The projects were displayed throughout the Sixth Grade Center, and
students stood next to their projects, eager to present their findings
to the visitors. “The night was a huge success, and we are very
proud of all the hard work and effort that the students put into their
projects,” said Principal Toto.
Superintendent Dave Bennardo was equally impressed by the efforts.
“We are also proud of the talented instructional staff that inspires our students to stretch the boundaries of their abilities,” said the superintendent
in his weekly newsletter.
WhitmanWhitmanWhitmanWhitmanWhitman
WHITMAN TEACHER
Robert Graziano
OF THE
YEAR
PRINCIPAL'S LIST ANNOUNCED!
Known as ‘The List,' Whitman Principal Kathleen Acker is proud to announce the members of the class
of 2013 that have achieved a GPA of 95 and above in their past 3.5 years at Whitman.
“In addition to being a team
player and demonstrating an
obvious dedication to carrying
out district initiatives, he is an
educator that cares passionately
about every student in the building.
He is the teacher that students
feel safe talking to, he is the
teacher that always spends his
lunch and prep time with students
having meaningful conversations or
being a guiding light.”
- Principal Kathie Acker
Valedictorian – Sarah Ann Riordan
Salutatorian – Matthew J. LoCastro
Alice Antoniou, Savannah Paulette Aronson, Anthony Vincent Badolato, Nikhil Bartolomeo, Kathryn A. Bellissimo, Brooke
Margaret Bifulco, Kelly M. Bilodeau, Casey Rose Blumberg, Karen Brenseke, Emily Marie Brostowin, Christopher R.
Calamari, Jacqueline Grace Calamari, Miranda Castellani, Ling Zhou Chen, Elsa Cheung, Fatimah Choudhary, Vincent R.
Colapinto, Frank T. Coleman, Brandon D.Conklin, Jacqueline Crunden, Sarah E. Daquara, Jake Delorenzo, Kieran Elmore,
Kelly L. Eng, Nicole Eng, Patrick Farrell, Kevin Forland, Robert A. Gallipoli, Amelia M. Goodman, Brian George Haggerty,
Jonathan Arthur Heller, Chan Kang, Nicole Morgan Katz, Navita S. Khaira, Alaina C.Kiesel, Lauren Brianne Kobel, Sixx
Lisman, Miguel Lopes, Amanda M. Lund, Jessica Scout Malone, Sarah A. Marchesiello, Casey Noelle Miller, Dylan Scott
Muhlstock, Lindsey Grace Nyman, Eileen Rose Panza, Noelle Florentine Pilger, Sophie Podhurst, Kensey Portman, Aniqa
Raihan, Erin Ann Reich, Anthony J. Sansotta, Eric J. Schmidt, Juliann Marie Schneider, Noelle M. Senior, Jenna Ann
Siracusano, Allison M. Stango, Karla Z. Thomas, Alexis Monique Trench, Emma Triolo, Christopher P.Vital, Raquelle Grace
Viteri, Victoria Marie Weisser, Maya Simone Williams, Brian Windisch, Nicholas A. Wurtz, and Sung Yoon.
Ms. Acker
Mr. Graziano
WHITMAN’S MATHLETES ARE COUNTY CHAMPIONS
The students will be recognized by the BOE at the May 21st meeting and their name will be prominently
displayed on a plaque in the halls of Walt Whitman.
DECA ROOKIE GOING TO INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION
Whitman freshman and first-year DECA member Catherine
Aiello earned a second-place trophy in Principles of
Marketing at the recent New York State DECA
Championships and now qualifies to compete at the
International DECA Career Development Conference in
Anaheim, California, this April.
“Catherine has done exceptionally well since she joined
DECA in September, earning a second-place finish at the
Young Professionals Chamber of Commerce conference at Farmingdale College,” said Ms.
Deanna Kluepfel, Whitman’s DECA Co-chair.
“She did really well on her Regional DECA competition, excelled in the State DECA tests, and did
even better in the role-play portion, where she
really impressed the judges.”
After a seesaw season of competitions that had our team
neck and neck with Suffolk’s other perennial powerhouses,
Ward Melville and Commack, our Whitman Mathletes have
emerged as the new Suffolk County champions.
In their last competition of the season, Whitman scored a
28 out of 30 to take sole possession of first place and the
Suffolk County championship. “We went into the last competition trailing Ward Melville by 1 point and ended the season 2 points ahead of them,” said Mr. Malaury Samedy,
Whitman’s Mathletes advisor.
“While we have a pretty young team, consisting mostly of
tenth graders, everyone contributed to our success this
year,” continued Mr. Samedy. "Whitman’s seniors did really well, including Chan Kang, Sean Conlon, Andy Yoon,
Sophie Podhurst and Eric Schmidt, who all had good seasons. Chan missed a perfect scoring season by 1 point.
Sophomore Zarmeen Mussa had a particularly good year,
scoring a perfect 6 out of 6 in her last competition. Juniors
also held their own, with John Spessard and Thomas
Hustedt adding to the team's success with consistent
scores. The team in general got off to a slow start but really came on strong for the balance of the season. It was 2
years ago that we ended the season tied with Commack as
county champions, and last year the team was second in
the county, so this is a fitting end to this season, and it was
a collective effort as we climbed our way to the top.”
The team and Mr. Samedy would especially like to thank
Math Chairperson Mr. David Gunder for his support, including nutritional support in the way of delicious snacks provided throughout the year. Suffolk County Mathlete teams
will enjoy an awards dinner later in the spring, when
Whitman will bring home their well-deserved trophy.
Congratulations, Mathletes!
SCIENCE FAIR WINNERS ANNOUNCED
The Award for Excellence in
Walt Whitman High School held its
Science this year goes to
Science Fair recently, and a special group
freshman Joseph Buckshaw.
of students stepped up to the plate. “This
Joseph’s project is titled
was the first time that participation in the
"What can be done to clothing
Science Fair at Walt Whitman High School
to improve its effectiveness in
has been voluntary, and you chose to rise
blocking deadly UV [ultravioto the occasion,” said Principal Kathie
let] radiation?" “I became
Acker in her message to participants.
interested in this subject after
“Although developing a science fair projmy grandpa passed away
ect takes long hours of research and
from skin cancer," said
analysis, you took on the personal comJoseph. "I wondered, why
mitment of challenging yourself to go Principal Kathie Acker congratulates
can’t clothing be more protecabove and beyond. You demonstrated an
Joseph Buckshaw.
tive? And that’s how I got into
obvious commitment to your academics as
the project.” Now in his third year of testing, Joseph decidwell as to the world of science and research.”
ed that for his Whitman project he would use dark-colored
materials. “I did find that the darker the shirt, the more the
Certificates of Participation went to the following students:
damaging UV rays were blocked,” said Joseph.
Jonathan Mozoon and Kabir Zafar
As a freshman, Joseph is enjoying much that Whitman has
Project: The Effect of Copper Surfaces on Microbes.
to offer, including cross-country in the fall and winter track,
and he is currently trying out for baseball. “As a DECA
Nicholas Baumann and Victoria Weisser
member, I enjoy the business aspect of my studies, so
Project: What recipe is best for making milk into plastic?
hopefully I will apply my love for the sciences in a business,” said Joseph.
Jonathan Vital & Gabrielle Vital
Project: Light bulb efficiency.
sess qualities that will make her a success at what ever she
chooses. “I enjoy art, so I know that some day I would like
to blend my love for business and art,” said Catherine. “I feel
I would do well with the creative part of marketing as well as
the business side of marketing.”
Congratulations, Catherine. You make Walt Whitman High
School and South Huntington proud!
“I was really nervous at first, but when the judges
began asking me questions I settled in, took
some deep breaths, and said to myself, It's only a
few minutes, stay calm and just give it your best,”
admitted Catherine.
Even at her young age, Catherine seems to pos- Left to right: Principal Kathie Acker, Catherine Aiello, and Deanna Kluepfel.
DECA SCORES AT STATES
We are very proud of our 15 DECA students
who competed in the New York State Annual
DECA Career Conference in Rochester this
past Saturday. The Whitman students joined
1,777 students from around the state to compete for top scores on tests and in role-play
events that help prepare these emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing,
finance, hospitality and management.
Club co-advisors Deanna Kluepfel and Diane
Zamow are happy to report that their students
were not only well prepared, but were also very
successful in each of their competitive events.
The following students placed in the top ten in
the state and were awarded medals in their
events:
Robert Galvin in Accounting Applications
Zarmeen Mussa in Apparel and Accessories
Derek Zadrozny in Hotel and Lodging
Management
Jackie Calamari and Jordana Lanz in
Community Service Project Written Report
Catherine Aiello, a first year member of
DECA earned a 2nd Place trophy in Principles
of Marketing, and qualifies to compete at the
International Career Development Conference
in Anaheim, California this April.
COMPETITIVE DANCE
TEAM BRINGS HOME
THE GOLD
Congratulations to Walt Whitman’s Dance
team who cleaned up at this year’s Long
Island Kickline Association Championships.
The team took home the following awards:
1st Jazz
1st Hip Hop
1st Pom
4th Kick
The 2012 – 2013 Walt Whitman Wildcat Varsity
Dance Team is coached by Kiva Boozer, assisted by volunteer coach Nicole Mercurio. Team
members include: Arianna Carlson, Kayla
Collins, Ashley Corcoran, Katherine Cox, Jenna
Kilkenny, Marina Kilkenny, Rachel Kilkenny,
Corina Lambraia, Amanda Lund, Rebecca
MacLeod, Alyssa Moletz, Amanda Moletz,
Kelsey Neal, Sabrina O’Dette, Melanie Olinsky,
Victoria Rosa, Ashley Seebach, Alexis Trench,
and Maya Williams.
SportsSportsSportsSportsSportsSportsSpor
JACKIE CRUNDEN AND GERALD RILEY ARE FEBRUARY ATHLETES OF THE MONTH
This past February, Jackie Crunden won the Large School County
Championship in the High Jump (5' 5"). At the Suffolk
Championships, Jackie also ran a personal best in the hurdles
(8.82), placing second in the county. So it’s fitting to say that after her
high jump of 5’4” at the New York State Track and Field championships, Jackie was not satisfied. She has set records of her own,
and she is more comfortable jumping at 5’7”, a jump that launched
her into the elite top two in the entire state just 1 year ago. “I never
really did that well on the track surface at Cornell,” said Jackie. “But
I know I can do better. I just need to look past it.”
Whitman High School. The sophomore speedster has caught the
eye of a couple coaches and they are delighted to have him on their
team. “Gerald is an incredibly talented young man who is realizing
that this talent combined with hard work will make great things possible for him.” Said Whitman Track Coach Rob Conroy.
At the Suffolk county track meet, Gerald finished only 1.49 seconds
behind the county champion in the Boys 300 Meter dash. His time
of 37.75 makes him not only the fastest sophomore in Suffolk
County but helped qualify him for the New York State Track and
Field State Championships at Cornell
University. It was there that Gerald
earned his Athlete of the Month status
setting a new state record in the Boys
Intersectional Medley. That new
record is now 8:50.95. Gerald runs the
200-meter leg of the relay. “My experience upstate was really good for me,”
said Gerald, “I didn’t expect to make it
that far in the States so it was a good
L-r: Athletic Director Dr. Jim Wright, Gerald Riley, Jackie feeling, and I got to meet many new
people.”
Crunden and Principal Kathie Acker.
And look past it she has. In her first
Spring Track and Field meet
against the always-tough Hills East,
she entered events that were relatively new to her. The Pole Vault,
Triple Jump, Long Jump, and 100meter Hurdles present challenges
to even the most accomplished athletes, and Jackie came in first place
in all of her events. “It was my very
first time in the pole vault,” said
Jackie. “I was really excited.” At the
recent National High School Track and Field competition held at the
Armory in upper Manhattan, Jackie competed against the nation's
best. “While I didn't do as well as I wanted to, I did well enough to
get eleventh place in the nation,” said Jackie, who will be attending
Binghamton University in the fall.
He’s a soft-spoken nice guy, and the fastest sophomore in Suffolk
County. Gerald Riley is new to South Huntington, but chances are
you will be hearing a lot more about him as he settles into life at Walt
This Spring Gerald will be just as busy running the 400- 200- and
100-meter races and is looking forward to helping the Wildcat football team as a slot back and wide receiver in the fall. Outside of his
athletic endeavors, Gerald would love to transfer his love of music
into an exciting career and is very interested in audio production that
is currently offered through Wilson Tech.
Congratulations Jackie and Gerald, our February
Athletes of the Month.
TRACK & FIELD STAR SIGNS WITH THE NORTH FLORIDA OSPREYS
“One of my earliest and best memories of Mike was when
he was a freshman and he popped a 10 minute 2 mile,”
said Whitman coach Rob Conroy. “That’s when I knew we
had something special in Mike.”
Mike has had a fantastic four years at Whitman. He qualified for the states in cross-country as a sophomore and
achieved that status again this past year.
Mike ran a 4:24 mile and a 9:20 2-mile and
was very heavily recruited by major
schools in the northeast. But he really
enjoys the warmer weather, so Mike is
headed south to the University of North
Florida.
Back here at Walt Whitman, Mike will be truly missed. “I’ve
learned so much here, but I guess the part I will miss the
most is track and Coach Conroy,” said Mike. “He taught me
a lot about track and set good examples about life as well.
He’s a good role model.”
Congratulations to the University of North Florida.
You’re getting one of Whitman’s best.
The Fencer's Fencer Award goes
to 1 boy and 1 girl from Suffolk
County. The recipient of the
Fencer's Fencer award is someone whom others look up to and
aspire to emulate. This person
should be someone who is not
simply a good fencer, but a good
person. Someone who knows
how to win, as well as how to lose.
This person should be someone
who is genuine and who is
respected both on and off the strip
by their teammates as well as their peers.
From Fencing Coach Kathleen Kolakowski:
“Alex O'Toole very deservingly received the Fencer's Fencer
award at the recent Suffolk County Fencing Championships.
Alex has fenced since she was in seventh grade and over the
years has formed relationships not only within this team but others as well. She has long been respected as a quality fencer
and as a leader. She has never been rude or disrespectful to
others on the strip. She will stand ready to salute until she is
able to properly salute her opponent and be saluted in return.
This last thing I mentioned may seem trivial to some, but she is
highly respected within the fencing community for showing this
respect to others and for requiring it from others in return. This
simple action sends a clear message and lesson to all fencers
in Suffolk County about how we should respect and acknowledge one another, win or lose.”
“This season was particularly tough for Alex. She has had difficulty breathing due to a vocal cord disorder. She was not able
to do the things she has always been capable of or to achieve
what she wanted for herself during her last season with the
team. Everyone saw how Alex struggled, but she gained herself
further admiration among her peers, coaches, and directors for
how she persevered. She never gave up! She never quit on
herself or her team. She was an inspiration in this regard to our
team and to others. She never took a break longer than what
she needed, she always fought hard, and she dug deep at
moments when she or the team needed it most.”
The Jimmy Nelson Hero Award Jimmy Nelson was a Centereach
fencer who eventually went on to
become a Port Authority police officer. Jimmy was killed on September
11, 2001 when, after the first tower
fell, he rushed into the second one to
help get others out.
This year, Nicholas Wurtz was the
recipient of this award.
From Fencing Coach Kathleen Kolakowski:
“Nick has always been someone who I know can be relied upon
to do the right thing, to stand up for what is right, and even his
teammates over the years have recognized that,” said Fencing
Coach Kathleen Kolakowski.
“Even though Nick may have been the 5th man in terms of the
strip, he has always been the 1st man on the team. Over the
years, I have heard the varsity starters make comments like,
‘Well if Nick is doing that...’ or ‘If Nick said...’ Then that is what
they follow and do because for them he was the hero of the
team. I have heard them make comments about how they
were fencing bouts and trying to win for Nick. I don't think he
is at all aware of how his teammates look at him or how they
have looked up to him over the years, and even if he does or
did, he doesn't let it goes to his head, he just continues trying
to be the best person he can and contribute as much to his
team as he can.”
“His departure at the end of the season will be a massive loss
for them team, and I don't know that there is anyone who can
ever or will ever fill his shoes in the same way in terms of what
he has contributed to the team off the strip that has led to others’ success on it. Nick Wurtz is a person whom I deeply respect
and admire for his unwavering commitment and dedication to
the team and his genuine caring for all its members. We also
very are grateful to Nick's parents for what they have contributed in terms of character to the community.”
RILEY SETS NEW STATE RECORD
So, that’s why Gerald Riley wasn’t able to accept his special award at Friday night’s 1st Annual Football Dinner–
he was Up-State setting a new track and field record.
Congratulations to Whitman’s sophomore track sensation, who along with his three other teammates, set a new
state record in the Boys Intersectional Medley Relay at
this year’s New York State Track and Field State
Championships at Cornell University. Varsity track coach
Rob Conroy tells us that the new record is now 8:50.95.
Gerald runs the 200-meter leg of the relay.
The school offers Mike the weather as well
as the academic and athletic programs
that seem like a perfect fit for him. “I really
wanted a warm-weather climate, and they
responded to me quickly and expressed
interest right away,” said Mike. “I will most
likely work toward a business degree.”
The University of North Florida Director of Mike Damato, flanked by proud Mom and Dad, signs with North Florida.
Cross Country and Track and Field, Jeff Back row l-r: Athletic Director Dr. Jim Wright, Track coach Rob Conroy, and
Pigg, will have Mike for both his teams. Principal Kathie Acker.
JANUARY ATHLETES OF THE MONTH
An Early Challenge Becomes Their Destiny. Both of our
January Athletes of the Month have had a season worth celebrating, but getting to their elevated status as Athletes of the
Month took them on different and yet similar roads. Both Kelly
Bilodeau and Joe Calderone were challenged by good friends
while in intermediate school, and both accepted the challenge,
not realizing how they would develop in their respective sports.
DUO WIN PRESTIGIOUS FENCING AWARDS
sue her interest in software engineering.
When he was a Birchwood fifth grader, Joe Calderon’s friend
Brian challenged him in wrestling, saying that he and Joe
should go out for the kid wrestling program in South Huntington
to make it a fair match. “Brian was always saying he could beat
me in wrestling, and I should join, so I gave it a shot and really enjoyed it,” said Joe. Joe stuck with it and over the years
developed into a formidable wrestler. His friend Brian never did
beat him in wrestling. Joe, a Whitman junior, is an all-league
and all-county wrestler who celebrated his 100th career win in
January.
It was in the fourth grade that Kelly Bilodeau’s friend Julie,
who wanted to share more time with her, "dragged" Kelly to
an intramural basketball game that Julie was playing. Kelly
joined, took to the sport instantly, and was soon recruited for
travel teams. As they say, the rest is history. “I love basketball, and my coach and my team are the best, but playing at
the varsity level for 6 years is tough, so I’m looking forward
to trying something different in college, perhaps rugby,” Kelly
says, laughing. “The chemistry is so good on our team, we’re
good friends off the court as well as on the court,” she continued. “We have been playing together since the sixth
grade, and we always said, our senior year was going to be
special.” This past January, Kelly scored her 1,000th point, a
milestone for any athlete, high school or college. Kelly, a
Whitman senior, has been actively looking at colleges but
has not decided where she wants to attend. She does say L-r: Athletic Director Dr. Jim Wright, Kelly Bilodeau, Joe Calderone,
that with her love for the sciences, she will most likely pur- and Principal Kathie Acker.
Congratulations Gerald Riley, and teammates Vincent
Cicale, Connor Christian, and James Burke for representing Long Island in such grand fashion.
Gerald Riley, far left, with teammates after setting a new
State Record
BOYS HOME LACROSSE OPENER HIGHLIGHTS DETERMINATION
The cold rain stung, but it did little to dampen the spirits
and resolve of Whitman’s boys varsity lacrosse team in
their Division I opener against Bay Shore. Starting off
slowly, the Wildcats fell behind 4-1 at the end of the first
period, and were down 10-4 at the end of the half. “We
had numerous opportunities where we hit their goalie
point blank but could not finish,” said Varsity Coach Bob
Howell. The Wildcats regrouped during halftime, and the
toughness and determination that may well be the trademark of this year’s team took over. “I told the guys at half
time, with the arsenal we have on attack, there is no reason that we can't get back into this ball game,” said Coach
Howell.
Within minutes the Wildcats won five faceoff’s, behind
midfielders Ian Zakow and Jaron Batts, and scored quickly on each possession. “I spoke with Ian and Jaron to
come up with a counter to what Bay Shore was doing and
we won a lot of face-offs in the second half.” Said Coach
Howell. Whitman took possession on 3 additional occasions behind strong defensive play from Chris McPartland
in the goal and defenseman Patrick Farrell, Alex
Remstein, and Sean Milanese all contributing to minimizing the Bay Shore Attack. Long Pole Midfielders Alex
Keane and Sam Esposito were instrumental in helping the
Wildcats maintain possession, creating additional opportunities for scoring.
The Whitman team fought its way back, tying the game
12-12, and then ending the third period down 13-12. But
Bay Shore was not giving up easily, taking control of sev-
eral face-offs and scoring on the fast breaks. Both teams
matched up well for the fourth period, with the Wildcats
scoring twice to bring it close, but Bay Shore took advantage of an open net, and the final minute ticked away.
“I’m proud of the kids because they didn’t quit," said
Coach Howell. "They played hard to the very end. We had
the momentum on our side. But then because of a couple
of unfortunate mistakes on our part, the momentum was
lost.” The final score had Bay Shore ahead 17-14.
Scoring for the Wildcats- Mitchell Bermudez, 4 goals;
Thomas Chimenti 3 goals; Vincent Colapinto 3 goals/5
assists; Ian Zakow 2 goals/1 assist; Liam Brennan, 2
goals/1 assist; and Ryan Muhlstock 1 assist.
Whitman Goalie Chris McPartland will anchor the
defense against some of the best scorers on the island.