Clutching a visual checklist, a student from Mrs. Jessica Celenza’s class scans the shelves of the Albany Avenue Elementary School supply closet with focused intent. This is the daily rhythm of "Celenza Prime," a student-led delivery service that turns routine school business into a masterclass in independence. Guided by the motto "Powered by students. Delivered with heart," these young entrepreneurs are redefining what it means to be a teammate.

Real-World Skills in Action

The program focuses on the student experience rather than just the logistics of school supplies. By managing "Celenza Prime," students practice essential life skills such as responsibility and social communication. Each order serves as a lesson in collaboration, as students work together to ensure their peers and teachers receive exactly what they need.

Meaningful Growth and Impact

The impact on the school community has been profound. When a staff member submits a request, students use a visual supply checklist to fulfill the order. They carefully navigate the halls, select the items, and provide same-day delivery with a smile. Since the beginning of the 2026-2027 school year, the team has successfully completed nearly 100 orders.

Looking Toward the Future

This initiative is more than a fun activity; it is a foundation for future success. As these students continue to flourish, the skills they gain through "Celenza Prime" will serve as a bridge to greater independence in their community and beyond.

Watch our new video to see these young entrepreneurs in action as they serve our school community.

The roar of the Farmingdale High School gymnasium was deafening on March 3, 2026, as hundreds of fifth graders linked arms for the annual Green & White Night. While the scoreboard eventually declared a winner, the night was defined by the incredible sportsmanship of a unified graduating class.

A Battle Until the End

After tallying points from every challenge, the Green Team was ultimately crowned the 2025-2026 champion. The margin of victory was one of the slimmest in the event's history, with only 25 points separating the two sides. The Farmingdale School District hosts this beloved tradition to bridge the gap between our four elementary schools: Albany Avenue Elementary School, Northside Elementary School, Saltzman East Memorial Elementary School, and Woodward Parkway Elementary School. By competing together now, these students ensure that when they enter Weldon E. Howitt Middle School this fall, they do so as teammates and friends.

Athleticism and Grit

The competition was fierce, beginning with a high-intensity five-minute Tabata set that included jumping jacks, sit ups, planks, burpees, and lunges. Students then showcased their skills and speed in a variety of unique events:

• Backwards scooter races
• A sprint relay
• A hula hoop relay
• An over-under relay
• A basketball shootout

The Architects of the Fun

An event of this scale is a massive undertaking that relies on a dedicated community. Director of Physical Education and Athletics Don Herr expressed his gratitude for the entire Physical Education Department and the Varsity Leaders Club for helping the event run smoothly. Special recognition was also given to:

• MC Rich Zeidler for his expert play-by-play
• DJ Dave Stein for keeping the energy high

Sprinting Toward the Finish Line

The energy from Green & White Night serves as a foundation for the rest of the 2025-2026 school year. These students will join forces once more in June for the district-wide fifth-grade field day at the Weldon E. Howitt Middle School Athletic Complex. The bonds formed during this night ensure our Dalers are ready to face the challenges of middle school with the support of their peers.

Farmingdale Students Perform at 21st Annual Day of Horn

On February 27, 2026, eight talented Farmingdale horn players participated in the 21st annual Day of Horn. Music teachers Erica Hartmann and Dr. Katie Duke accompanied the group to Longwood High School for the day-long event, which brought together approximately 100 student and professional musicians from across Nassau and Suffolk counties.

Mentorship and Performance

The highlight of the 2025-2026 school year event was a masterclass and performance by guest artist Kevin Newton. A member of the Grammy-nominated Imani Winds, Kevin Newton is a professional hornist known for his work with the New York Philharmonic and the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra. Under his guidance, Farmingdale students gained technical insights and inspiration to help them refine their craft.

Farmingdale Participants

The following students represented the district at this year’s gathering:

• James Shapiro, Albany Avenue Elementary School
• 6th graders Cameron Chiu and McKayla Uzenski
• 7th graders Michael Borowski, Lucy Cutter, and Jared Martinez
• 8th graders George Guadagnino and Dominic Rolon Fischer

About the Event

Founded and organized by Alan Orloff, the Day of Horn provides a unique platform for local brass players to collaborate and perform. Our students had the opportunity to play alongside their peers and learn from industry professionals in a high-energy, educational environment.

The 100th day of school is a major milestone, marking the halfway point of an incredible year of learning and growth. It’s a special opportunity to celebrate just how much our students have accomplished since September. Across the district’s elementary schools, classrooms were filled with excitement as students created lists of 100 favorite things, counted and strung 100 beads, designed festive “100 Days” headbands, and took part in hands-on activities centered around the number 100. The biggest highlight? Students dressed up as 100-year-olds, imagining their future selves with plenty of creativity and laughs along the way.

Dalers of all ages throughout the district donned purple on Friday, February 13, 2026, to show their support for P.S. I Love You Day. This day shines a light on mental health and combating bullying. By introducing mental health education to students at an early age, discussions will become more open, enabling students to identify when they or others require assistance. Every second Friday of February, communities wear purple to promote kindness, create a welcoming atmosphere, and emphasize that mental health is as crucial as physical health.