Established to recognize exceptional alums, Farmingdale’s Wall of Fame stands proudly in the high school lobby, honoring those who have become inspirational figures for the community. On Wednesday, May 21, 2025, an intimate ceremony occurred at Farmingdale High School, where three new honorees were inducted into the Wall of Fame. Dr. Randee Bonagura (class of 1992), Captain Peter Crawford (class of 1968), and Ms. Jennifer O’Neill (class of 2013) celebrated this honor alongside their family, friends, District Administrators, and members of the Board of Education.

“The Wall of Fame is not about being the most successful in your career,” said Farmingdale High School Assistant Principal and Chairperson of the Wall of Fame Committee, Carla Stillwell. “It’s about giving back to the community.”

Before the ceremony, reporters from Farmingdale High School’s newspaper, The Paper Lion, had the opportunity to meet with this year's honorees to gain deeper insights. The interviews became more than just an assignment; they served as a bridge connecting generations. During the ceremony on May 21st, the student reporters introduced the honorees and shared a heartfelt tribute, highlighting the unique contributions and achievements of the honorees.

For her exemplary leadership in education, significant contributions to the makerspace movement, and unwavering commitment to the Farmingdale community, Dr. Randee Bonagura was honored with an induction into the Farmingdale Wall of Fame. Dr. Randee Bonagura from the class of 1992 was sponsored by her mother, Mrs. Judy Bonagura. Captain Peter Crawford was recognized as a 2025 Wall of Fame inductee for his outstanding service in law enforcement, his dedication to his country, and his lasting influence on the safety and security of others. Captain Peter Crawford, a graduate from the class of 1968, is sponsored by his brother-in-law and Farmingdale High School psychologist, Dr. William Sperduto. Additionally, Ms. Jennifer O’Neill has been celebrated as a 2025 Wall of Fame Inductee, acknowledging her professional and artistic achievements and profound impact on the Farmingdale community. Ms. Jennifer O’Neill, from the class of 2013, is sponsored by her former and current Farmingdale High School Social Studies teacher, Candice Collazo.

You can find the complete biographies of the 2025 Wall of Fame honorees here.

The honorees, who had once walked the halls of Farmingdale High School, now stood as inspiring examples of what could be achieved through hard work and perseverance. Located in the lobby of Farmingdale High School, the Wall of Fame showcases plaques of past honorees, each a testament to the enduring spirit of the Farmingdale family. Candidates must have graduated ten years prior and demonstrated meaningful achievements in their professional journeys to be considered for this honor.

Paper Lion Journalists: Ryan Kearney, Saadullah Ali, Brody Healey, Karalyn Katakofsky, and Kristina Trent.

Wall of Fame Committee: Candice Collazo, Sarah Aliendro, Betty Looney, Laurie McLaughlin, Daniella Dougherty, Ivelyssee Powers, and Carla Stillwell, Chairperson.

This year, the Farmingdale Friends and Family Team participated in a new event, The Best Buddies Friendship Walk, the premier walk in the nation advocating for inclusion of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The walk took place on Saturday, May 10, at Marjorie Post Park. Our team had sixty walkers and successfully raised over $2,000. Heartfelt appreciation goes to Farmingdale High School senior Julianna DeSantis, who crafted the team’s vibrant shirts, adding a personal touch to the journey.

A round of applause for Farmingdale School District for being recognized as a #BestCommunitiesforMusicEducation by the NAMM Foundation for the 12th year in a row!

"The remarkable success of this program is genuinely a collective achievement, made possible by our exceptionally talented music educators and students, along with the unwavering support from our administration, teachers, Board of Education, and the community." -Greg Warnokowski, Director of Fine & Performing Arts

The Roger Rees Awards Showcase took place yesterday, Monday, May 19th. The Broadway Education Alliance announced the 50 nominees for Outstanding Performer in high school productions for the 2024-2025 academic year. We are thrilled to share that, from a pool of 500 students, Farmingdale High School senior Robert Silverstein and junior William Herbert have earned their well-deserved places in the Top 50. Their nominations, a testament to their remarkable talent, came from their teacher and director, Jessica Mischke, following their standout performances in the Farmingdale High School Playcrafters’ production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame.

During last night’s live showcase in NYC, the Top 12 were unveiled, comprising 6 girls and 6 boys, with Robert and William earning a place in this prestigious group. They had the incredible opportunity to perform live on stage. By evening’s end, in a moment filled with pride and joy, Robert Silverstein was honored as the runner-up and awarded the title of Emerging Artist.

This experience has highlighted their individual talents and brought attention to the exceptional theater program at Farmingdale High School. Once again, congratulations to Robert, William, and the entire Farmingdale High School Playcrafters team for their outstanding achievements.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the dedicated staff of the Farmingdale School District, who were honored at the Tenure Ceremony on May 7, 2025. As we celebrate this milestone, we are reminded of the profound impact educators have in shaping the future. Here's to your continued success and the bright future of Farmingdale School District!