We are incredibly proud to announce that the Howitt Middle School National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) officially inducted 133 new members on Monday, November 17, 2025!

Howitt Middle School Principal Mike Gavalas spoke passionately about the dedication and hard work that these young individuals have shown, emphasizing how they embody the spirit and values that the school strives to cultivate. "Each of these students has demonstrated remarkable commitment and perseverance," Principal Gava las remarked. "They are leaders in their own right, continuously inspiring their peers and contributing positively to our school community."

The induction ceremony was a wonderful celebration of these students' dedication to academic excellence and their commitment to the five pillars of NJHS: Scholarship, Service, Leadership, Citizenship, and Character.

Now Accepting Nominations

The Farmingdale High School Wall of Valor stands as a permanent tribute to our exceptional alumni who exemplify the spirit of service and sacrifice. We are proud to recognize graduates who have served, or are currently serving, in the U.S. Armed Forces (Veterans, Active Duty, Reserves).

Do you know an alum whose heroism deserves to be immortalized? Help us honor their commitment to our nation and community.

Nominate a deserving graduate today!

The rink became our real-world physics lab. Satzman East Memorial’s third-grade field trip to United Skates was packed with practical engineering and motion lessons. Students spent the day mastering our moves and secretly learning some amazing STEM! From tackling centripetal force on the turns to understanding rolling friction, science was definitely in motion!

Twenty-six educators were honored as School Heroes by the Long Island Coalition Against Bullying (LICAB) for their dedication to creating safe and inclusive learning environments for students.

The honorees included Woodward Parkway Principal Dr. Patrick Klocek and Assistant Principal Dr. Jennifer DeHayes, as well as recent retiree Dr. William Sperduto, who served for many years as a District Psychologist. The recognition took place during a reception on October 20 at the Stonebridge Golf & Country Club in Smithtown. Attendees included educators, community leaders, members of the Board of Education, family, and colleagues.

“Our honorees remind us that real impact is not measured in statistics or applause, but in the single moment, single student and single act of kindness that can alter a child’s path,” said Joe Salamone, the coalition’s founder and executive director.

Let's give a round of applause to Dr. Patrick Klocek, Dr. Jennifer DeHayes, and Dr. William Sperduto!

(from L-R) Board of Education Trustee George Andriopoulous, Deputy Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Olsen, Board of Education Trustee Kathy Lively, Dr. Patrick Klocek, Dr. Jennifer DeHayes, Dr. William Sperduto, Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini, Board of Education Trustee Gavin Rogers, and Executive Director of Special Education Donald Cassidy.

Hearts were bursting with red, white, and blue pride as Woodward Parkway Elementary School launched a new tradition by hosting its first school-wide Veterans Day Celebration. On Friday, November 7, 2025, the entire school welcomed dozens of local veterans and their families for a day of hugs, handshakes, and thanks! To ensure every student had a chance to share their gratitude, Woodward Parkway held three assemblies throughout the morning.

This celebration was a collaborative effort across all school departments. Students created a vibrant display of paintings featuring American landscapes during art class, serving as a beautiful artistic tribute to the nation the veterans defended. During the assemblies, students sang patriotic songs, led by the Music teachers, as a thank you to the visiting heroes. Every class participated in educational activities, where students learned about the meaning of Veterans Day and the importance of patriotism through reading and discussions. Outside the building, the local Boy Scout Troop contributed by creating a Field of Honor, a display of flags that welcomed everyone arriving at the school.

Similarly, students at Alabany Avenue hosted a touching ceremony and engaged in community service to honor those who served.

The Veterans Day Assembly at Albany Avenue featured the presentation of the colors by Veterans from the Marine Corps League Sunrise Detachment. We were proud to welcome a veteran parent and member of the Detachment, who spoke to students about the significance of Veterans Day and the importance of our flag. The assembly also included a performance by our school chorus and a slideshow honoring school veterans. In a wonderful demonstration of support, the school organized a food drive for the Veterans Food Pantry in East Meadow. The visiting veterans graciously accepted all the donated items, which were then delivered directly to the food pantry.

Beyond the featured assemblies, the importance of Veterans Day was a focal point across schools in the district. Many teachers engaged students in classroom activities designed to teach them about the history of the holiday, the role of the U.S. military, and the concept of civic duty. Additionally, the meaning of Veterans Day and a message of gratitude were shared with students daily via morning announcements, ensuring a unified and consistent expression of respect throughout the district.