Howitt Middle School began its Wellness Week celebrations on February 9 with "Mindful Monday". While the district-wide initiative runs through February 13, Howitt Middle School started the week by focusing on the power of breath and movement.

Mrs. Rapinat led 20-minute yoga sessions at the beginning and end of each lunch period for both staff and students. These sessions focused on light yoga and stretching, requiring no previous experience. Students participated during the second half of their lunch period, while teachers had the flexibility to attend either the first or last 20 minutes. Because these sessions were high in demand, a formal sign-up was required to ensure a calm, organized environment.

While Monday focused on mindfulness, the rest of the week at Howitt Middle School continues with these unique daily themes:

• Thankful Tuesday: Creating gratitude journals to improve mental strength and sleep.
• Workout Wednesday: Class-wide stretching to boost self-confidence and lower stress.
• Thoughtful Thursday: A "Be The Light" discussion based on "The Starfish Story."

The week's activities serve as a lead-up to the conclusion of Wellness Week, which wraps up with P.S. I Love You Day

A Very Dahl Parent University

Join the Farmingdale School District on March 10, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Weldon E. Howitt Middle School for an evening of learning and family connection.

Students are invited to wear their favorite pajamas and bring a towel or pillow to snuggle up for a special movie night. We will screen Wonka for students in grades K-3 and The BFG for students in grades 4-8. The movies start at 6:10 p.m. sharp. Attendees will enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, and popcorn during the films.

While students enjoy their movies, parents will attend interactive workshops focused on supporting literacy at home. These sessions provide practical strategies and tools to help children grow as readers.

At the end of the night, every child will receive a book to take home. Students in grades K-3 will receive Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and students in grades 4-8 will receive The BFG.

Event Details

• Date: March 10, 2026
• Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Location: Weldon E. Howitt Middle School

Please click HERE to RSVP for the Parent University event by February 27, 2026.

Stepping into the heart of New York’s legislative landscape, our student leaders demonstrated that their perspectives are vital to the decisions that shape our classrooms. This important visit to Albany serves as the culmination of a year's worth of hard work and preparation. Throughout the school year, the Legislative Action Committee (LAC) meets several times at Howitt Middle School to collaborate with local officials and refine its goals.

On Tuesday, February 3, 2026, this work was put into action as the committee—which includes Board of Education members, staff, residents, and students—met with Senator Steven Rhoads and Assemblyman Michael Durso. Our students also led the way by engaging in insightful discussions with Assemblymen Sam Berger, Jake Blumencranz, and John Mikulin on student health and special education funding. These meetings allow the committee to promote laws that support the district's mission and protect our schools' interests.

Priorities for Our Schools

The committee focused on several urgent needs, including increased funding for student mental health and expanding Medicaid-reimbursable services. They also discussed the financial challenges of providing special education services through a student’s 22nd birthday and the need to vet computer-based testing for English language learners better. Additionally, the LAC advocated for reforms to the property tax cap and the civil service system to help the district manage unexpected expenses and fill vital staff roles.

A Day of Learning and Leadership

Beyond the meetings, students enjoyed a guided tour of the historic New York State Capitol, including the legislative chambers and the Hall of Governors. Assistant to the Superintendent for Administration, Dr. Samuel Thompson, praised the students for their leadership. “Our Farmingdale High School students represented us with remarkable poise and self-assurance while advocating for these critical issues,” said Dr. Thompson. “I am incredibly grateful to everyone who supported this trip and to our students for making our community proud through their dedicated advocacy.”

The strength of our community was on full display as these young advocates returned home with a deeper understanding of how to effect real change.

Kindergarteners at Woodward Parkway had a blast learning about Groundhog Day and making crafts. Mrs. Spencer’s class predicted more winter, and Punxsutawney Phil agreed! We will keep our mittens handy for six more weeks of chilly fun.