On August 27, 2025, Farmingdale High School welcomed the Class of 2029 at Freshman Orientation. Principal Jed Herman greeted students and encouraged them to get involved in school life to make the most of their four years—reminding them that the time will go by quickly. Students also had the opportunity to tour the building, meet faculty, and prepare for an exciting first year as Dalers.

On August 26, 2025, our newest middle schoolers (and their families!) joined us for orientation. They had the chance to meet Principal Mike Gavalas and the amazing building administration team before exploring the school and walking through their schedules.

THANK YOU to the Howitt Kickline Team and the Fun Bunch for giving everyone a warm and energetic welcome!

Good luck to our 6th graders as they begin this exciting new chapter at Howitt Middle School—we can’t wait to see all the wonderful things you’ll accomplish!

The Farmingdale School District proudly welcomed 34 newly-appointed teachers during a three-day New Teacher Orientation at Howitt Middle School. The program, designed to prepare educators for a successful start to the 2025–2026 school year, provided an engaging introduction to the district’s culture, expectations, and resources.

The orientation started with a welcome from Superintendent Paul Defendini, who spoke about the district’s mission, values, and the importance of strong student connections. Joined by Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Mike Ferretti, the new teachers then embarked on a district-wide bus tour, visiting each school and meeting principals who highlighted the unique character of their buildings.

Led by Dr. Jennifer Olsen, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, the three-day program covered a wide range of essential topics, including curriculum design, instructional strategies, school culture, safety protocols, and digital technology in the classroom. Sessions emphasized the district’s commitment to collaboration, equity, and fostering a positive learning environment for every student.

The orientation also provided opportunities for teachers to engage in team-building activities and collaborative discussions, encouraging them to share ideas, ask questions, and build connections with colleagues and district leaders. The new teachers now join their colleagues in preparation for the opening of schools.

The first day of classes for all Farmingdale students is Thursday, September 4, 2025.

A powerful partnership brings students of all abilities together on the field and on the screen

The Farmingdale School District is proud to announce an exciting and heartfelt collaboration with district alumnus Brian Calhoun and his Calhoun Drum Academy (All Abilities Drumline), a nationally recognized ensemble that brings together individuals of all abilities through the power of music. This partnership will be featured in a professional documentary currently being filmed by award-winning New York City-based filmmakers, set to be completed in 2026.

The documentary, which aims to redefine ability and promote inclusion, will capture a series of powerful moments at Farmingdale, including a culminating performance and community celebration. At the heart of the film will be the connection between Calhoun’s All Abilities Drumline and the Farmingdale High School Marching Band, culminating in a joint performance of “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond.

“This partnership will be a shining example of how General Education and Special Education can come together through Music Education,” said Calhoun Drum Academy Director Brian Calhoun. “As a former Daler and proud Farmingdale Alumni, I believe Farmingdale is the perfect district for this unique partnership. I hope that our joint collaborations will help inspire students and educators throughout the district, the greater Long Island community, and people all throughout the world, that music is for everyone!”

Leading up to the event, Calhoun and his team of drummers will join the Farmingdale Marching Band throughout the summer for joint rehearsals, forging connections and preparing for their highly anticipated performance. To build excitement and awareness within the school community, Calhoun will also lead two in-school assemblies at Farmingdale High School in late September. During these sessions, he’ll speak to students about the Calhoun Drum Academy, the mission behind the film, and the importance of inclusion in the arts. He’ll also use the assemblies as an opportunity to personally invite students from the school’s special education program to join the drumline on the field during October’s big performance.

The collaboration will culminate in a major public event: “Marching for All,” a unified performance by the Calhoun Drum Academy's “All Abilities Drumline” and the Farmingdale High School Marching Band. This powerful finale will take place on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 6:00 PM on the Farmingdale High School Turf Field and will serve as the emotional centerpiece of the film.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Brian on this project, said Superintendent Paul Defendini. “It perfectly reflects our district’s values — celebrating diversity, fostering inclusion, and giving all students a chance to shine. The fact that these moments will be documented and shared nationally makes it even more meaningful.”

Want more? The Calhoun Drum Academy “All Abilities Drumline” will return for a special encore performance at halftime on Saturday, October 18, when the Dalers take on Massapequa — a fitting celebration of inclusion, community pride, and musical excellence.

About Brian Calhoun and the Calhoun Drum Academy: Brian Calhoun is a world-renowned percussion educator who has had great success teaching both general education and special education students (children, teens, and adults). Brian is an inclusion advocate who founded the Calhoun Drum Academy and its All Abilities Drumline to provide integrated performance opportunities for individuals of all abilities. His group has received national attention for its innovative and inclusive approach to music education. Website: https://www.briancalhoundrums.com/ Socials: @BrianCalhounDrums (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok)

On Thursday evening, June 26, the Farmingdale School District held its annual 8th Grade Moving-Up Ceremony for Howitt Middle School. The event took place on the school’s turf field, bringing together students, families, friends, faculty, district administrators, and members of the Board of Education in a proud celebration of the Class of 2025.

The ceremony honored the achievements of the 8th-grade students as they prepare to take the next step in their academic journey to Farmingdale High School. The program included an exceptional Howitt Middle School chorus performance, setting a festive tone for the evening.

Principal Mike Gavalas addressed the crowd, reflecting on the students’ journey and recognizing their accomplishments. He was joined by Assistant Principal Kenneth McCloud, who assisted in congratulating the graduates and supporting the presentation of certificates.

As part of the evening’s recognitions, two distinguished awards were presented to students who embody the values of the Farmingdale school community. Natalie Calderon received the Board of Education Scholarship & Citizens Award, given to a student who exemplifies character, citizenship, discipline, and leadership. Sabrina Badalamenti was honored with the Dr. Gary E. Karp Award, which recognizes a student who demonstrates a strong dedication to school and community, reflecting the spirit of service and commitment that defined Dr. Karp’s legacy.

The Farmingdale School District extends its congratulations to all the graduates and their families and looks forward to seeing the continued growth and success of the Class of 2025 as they join the ranks of Dalers at Farmingdale High School this fall.

Watch Now!! Howitt Middle School's Moving-Up Ceremony