Farmingdale High School's 4th Annual Safe Halloween Event is a Spellbinding Success

Farmingdale High School's 4th Annual Safe Halloween Event was back and more exciting than ever, providing young Dalers with an unforgettable experience. On Saturday, October 19, the school was transformed into a Halloween town, enchanting all who entered.

Hundreds of tiny trick-or-treaters gathered at this year’s Safe Halloween event, to explore a maze of intricately decorated halls, each featuring a unique theme. The school was transformed into a Pumpkin Patch, Princess Retreat, Toon Town, Witches Kingdom, Superhero City, Mission Space, and Alice's Wonderland. However, it was not only the decorations that contributed to the event's allure. Theater students from Farmingdale High School wore costumes, and fully embraced their roles, engaging with visitors, posing for photographs, and distributing candy. After the trick-or-treating, families were invited into the Big Top gymnasium, where a circus of fun awaited. A Día de los Muertos dance captivated audiences, nearby, a face painting station transformed young faces into unicorns, tigers, and superheroes. The aroma of popcorn and cotton candy wafted through the gym, inviting all to indulge in the sweet treats.

Executing an event like Safe Halloween requires a great deal of effort, and the Theater Program students dedicated weeks to meticulously organizing every aspect. Several groups collaborated to bring the Theatre 4 students' ideas to life, including Farmingdale High School's Art Honor Society, Real Harmony, Thespian Honor Society, Playcrafters, and the PTA.

“Safe Halloween is not just a fun event for the community, but a chance for our students to showcase their talent and passion for the arts,” said Glen Beck, theater teacher at Farmingdale High School. “I couldn't be prouder of them. Our students worked tirelessly to ensure every detail was perfect, which truly paid off.”

Looking ahead, the excitement for next year’s event is already brewing. Each year, the anticipation grows for what new themes and creative ideas the students will bring to life. It’s clear that Safe Halloween has become a cherished tradition, and the community eagerly awaits the next opportunity to celebrate together.

Farmingdale’s Spirit Week Concludes with Pep Rally and Homecoming Victory

Don Snyder stadium was packed with fans cheering the Farmingdale High School Varsity Football team to victory at their Homecoming game on October 10. The Dalers beat Syosset by a score of 49-13. The halftime show was spectacular, courtesy of the Farmingdale High School Marching Band, Cheerleaders, Daler Guard, and the Dalerettes.

The day's celebrations started with an energetic pep rally in the school gym, led by Farmingdale High School's Principal, Jed Herman, and our beloved lion mascot, Dale. As the lively sounds of the pep band and drumline filled the air, football team members were introduced, followed by stunning performances from the junior and varsity cheerleaders, the Dalerettes, and the Step-n-Dalers. Varsity captains representing all fall sports took center stage to receive a well-deserved applause. Fans were also wowed by an impressive party trick from the drumline—a blindfolded drum routine. Adding to the excitement, the senior cheer, dance, and step mashup made a spectacular comeback, getting everyone on their feet.

The Homecoming game marked the grand finale of Farmingdale's Spirit Week. This October tradition is a heartening occasion for students and faculty alike. Each day of the week boasted a unique theme, fostering creativity and inclusivity. The themes included Tropical Tuesday, Country vs. Country Club, Color Wars, and Daler Gear.

Spirit Week also included mini pep rallies at the elementary schools. The Farmingdale High School Cheerleaders, Dalerettes, and Step-n-Dalers treated the young students to electrifying performances. Our school Mascot, Dale, greeted the children and shared a few high-fives with the enthusiastic crowd. Wrapping it up, the Varsity Football captains shared inspirational words about what it truly means to be a Daler.

As the students look back on this incredible Spirit Week, the sense of belonging and pride in their community is undeniable. Farmingdale School District has once again proven its spirit is alive and thriving.

Farmingdale High School recently revealed the Valedictorian and Salutatorian of the Class of 2025. Shea Hiotidis and Jaylyn Umana were announced as the top honorees. Shea Hiotidis stood out as the Valedictorian since he earned the highest cumulative GPA out of 390 students, while Jaylyn Umana achieved the rank of Salutatorian.

The Principal of Farmingdale High School, Jed Herman, congratulated both students and expressed his awe at their dedication to learning.

“It is truly inspiring to witness students like Shea and Jaylyn diligently working to fulfill their aspirations. Congratulations to both students on this remarkable accomplishment, and we wish them the best in their future pursuits.”

With the honors of Valedictorian and Salutatorian, Shea and Jaylyn have the privilege of delivering speeches at the Farmingdale High School Graduation Ceremony on June 17, 2025. Additionally, they will enjoy a breakfast with their families, hosted by the Nassau County Council of School Superintendents. Farmingdale High School Principal Jed Herman and Farmingdale Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini will join them in celebrating this special occasion.

As the Class of 2025 prepares to embark on new adventures, Shea and Jaylyn are shining examples of what can be achieved through dedication, hard work, and a supportive community. Their stories inspire their peers and future students at Farmingdale High School, encouraging them to dream big and strive for excellence.

The Farmingdale School District, in collaboration with the Town of Oyster Bay, held a special street renaming ceremony on Tuesday, October 8, 2024. This event honored the late Farmingdale educators Gina Pellettiere and Beatrice “Bea” Ferrari, who tragically passed away on September 21, 2023, when a charter bus carrying 40 members of the Farmingdale High School marching band overturned on Interstate 84 in Orange County on their way to a band camp in Pennsylvania.

The ceremony at Farmingdale High School was presided over by Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini. It featured performances by the Farmingdale High School Marching Band performances, Dalerettes, and Daler Guard. Attendees included Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, and Oyster Bay Town Board members. New York State Senator Steve Rhoads, Nassau County Legislator John Ferretti Jr., Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz, and John Mikulin were present. Representing Governor Kathy Hochul's office was Stevens Martinez, Deputy Director of Intergovernmental Affairs.

“The impact that they have left behind has shaped the lives of thousands, and it is for this reason that we join here to commemorate the lives of our two angels,” said Farmingdale Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini. “Their names and, in turn, their lives will be forever remembered as we travel in and around the area of Farmingdale High School, a place they both called home for most of their lives.”

The Farmingdale and South Farmingdale Fire Departments presented the honor guard, while the Junior Brigade led the Pledge of Allegiance. The Dalers Marching Band performed the National Anthem, and Rev. George Oppong Afriyie from St. Kilian Parish delivered the invocation and blessed the street signs.

Following remarks from Honorable Joseph Saladino and Honorable Bruce A. Blakeman, the families of Beatrice Ferrari and Gina Pellettiere shared heartfelt messages. Gina's mother, Diane, and her brother, Danny, inspired others to chase their passions, set goals, and cherish time with family. Bea's daughters, Angela Aldiere and Dina Lopresto, reminisced about treasured moments with their mother and her enthusiasm for the annual Farmingdale traditions, including the upcoming Halloween Parade at Farmingdale High School that passes right by her home. The families expressed profound gratitude to the Farmingdale community for supporting them through this challenging time. They hope these street signs will serve as a beacon for future generations, encouraging them to honor their loved ones and pursue their dreams.

After the speeches, the street signs were unveiled by Bea's grandson, Luke Aldiere, a senior at Farmingdale High School and a marching band member. Gina’s son, Joseph, revealed her sign with help from her brothers, Anthony and Danny.

“These two amazing women were true role models and the inspiration for what our futures will bring,” said Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “They represented the gold standard of service and were the heart and soul of the band. They were, and always will be, true Dalers.”

As students, faculty, residents, and visitors pass by 10th and 11th Streets along Woodward Parkway, they will forever remember two educators who gave their all—instilling knowledge, determination, curiosity, dedication, love, and hope in the lives of those they taught.

Spirit Week goes beyond simply uniting as a school; it’s an opportunity to come together as a community.

Pre-game celebrations featured mini pep rallies at Northside and Woodward Parkway Elementary Schools, where the school principals, Dr. Christopher Peterson and Dr. Patrick Klocek, launched the festivities alongside our cherished lion mascot, Dale.

Varsity football captains engaged with students about the importance of being supportive teammates and positive role models. Following this, students were treated to performances by the Varsity and JV Cheer teams, the Dalerettes, and the Step-n-Dalers.