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Exterior photo of front of Howitt Middle School building

Weldon E. Howitt Middle School


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Important Information

Parents: please take some time to review the district Attendance Policy, Code of Conduct, and Emergency Planning Guide as well as other notices in this folder: Important Policies and Notices

Check us out on Twitter! @HowittMS

 

Moving up to Middle School - 5th Grade Parent Orientation slideshow 4/2/25

 

Principal's Welcome to the New School Year Letter

 

Graphic saying "Update"

CANCELLATIONS:

Earth Science Extra Help w/Ms. Devine in room 218

7th/8th Girls Lacrosse Game

7th Boys Baseball Game

8th Boys Baseball Game

 

Track practice will end at 3:45 pm today due to the weather.

   

 


 

 announcements

 

 

TODAY IS MONDAY, mAY 5, 2025, AND IT IS AN "a" DAY

 

SPORTS

 7th/8th Girls Badminton is away against South Woods MS (Syosset) @ 4:45 pm
       CANCELLED 7th/8th Girls Lacrosse  
 CANCELLED 8th Boys Baseball Game
       CANCELLED 7th Boys Baseball Game

FREE breakfast for all students is served every day in both cafeterias. Students should eat FIRST before attending Morning Rec.

 

Morning Rec Program is held every morning from 7:25 to 7:50 am in both the East and West Gyms.

 

6th & 7th grade students who are not attending Morning Rec should go to either the East Cafeteria to eat breakfast or to the auditorium to wait for the 7:55 am bell.  8th graders not attending Morning Rec should go to the West Cafeteria to eat or wait until homeroom begins.

 

Lost or broken IDs or lanyards can be replaced by submitting the form that can be found on the student's chromebook under FD BOOKMARKS. Students are also able to access the form from their ClassLink launchpad. Until the new ID is replaced, students should get a TEMPORARY ID sticker from their teacher or at the lobby desk.

After School Extra Help is offered on Mondays, Wednesdays & Thursdays from 2:50 to 3:50 pm.
An additional session has been added on Thursdays for 7th Math Extra Help w/Mr. Faranello and Ms. Sloan in room 212.

  

Today kicks off Howitt's College & Career Week sponsored by the guidance team. Throughout the week, social studies teachers will be presenting short video clips to start the discussion about career areas of interest. There will be fun-themed activities and raffles. This week will begin with a career interest inventory that will be done during social studies classes. 
Homeroom teachers will be handing out the Career Interest Scavenger Hunt and College & Career Bingo sheets. Students will need to find the teacher or staff member that meets the criteria for each box and get them to sign it. Completed forms should be dropped off at the grade-level office by Thursday for a chance to win prizes, and winners will be announced on Friday. Good Luck to everyone.    
There also will be a mystery Career Week teacher to learn about jobs that teachers may have had before or while working at Howitt. During homeroom today, students can try to figure out who the mystery teacher is based on the clues, and the correct answer will be announced tomorrow morning. Classes with the most correct guesses will win a prize.
Thank you to all who are sporting Daler gear. Your future starts here! Tomorrow's theme is: What’s Your Passion Tuesday? Wear something that represents a passion or hobby such as sports, writing, music art or any special interest that could turn into a career.  
 
This week the National Junior Honor Society is collecting books for National Children’s Book Week. Gently used books can be dropped off in the donation boxes located outside the Main Office. Donated books will be collected until Friday.     
 
Good news! The Swiftie Society is back. The Swiftie Society is a fan club where students unite in their love for all things Taylor Swift. The first meeting will be on Friday, May 9, after school in room 602 with Ms. Saraniero and Ms. Huggard.

 

Adventureland permission slips, along with payment, are due by Friday, May 30, and must be placed into the drop box in the Main Office. No late payments will be accepted. If payment is made online a signed permission slip still needs to be handed in order to go on the trip. Any questions, please ask your math teacher or email Mrs. Mulligan.

 

Mrs. Tucker’s rehearsals for today:

Full Chorus: Continues

Mixed: Period 3 
Girls Chorus: Period 3
Chamber Chorus: Period 7
 Lunch Chorus: Period 8 

 

Mr. Hulse’s 6th Varsity Chorus for part one will have rehearsal today during the second half of lunch.

 

Mr. Gelfer's 8th Orchestra students should report to the auditorium for period 9 only today.

 

Mr. Szabo's 6th Orchestra students should report to the auditorium during period 4 today for concert rehearsal.   

 

The following will be held after school TODAY:
Concession Stand w/Mrs. Mulligan, Mrs. Merlo & Ms. Hilton
Fitness Club for Group “B” w/Mr. Woska in the East Gym
CANCELLED Garden Club w/Mrs. Marzillier & Mr. Szabo
CANCELLED 7th8th Softball practice w/Coach Viskoc
CANCELLED Chess & Checkers Club w/Mr. Kirby in room 316

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8th aDVENTURELAND CLASS TRIP

Monday, June 16, 2025 from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm (No Rain Date)
$70.00 (myschoolbucks.com, cash or check made out to Howitt School) due Friday, May 30
Includes admission to park, unlimited rides, lunch w/beverage & transportation

PERMISSION SLIP

 

 

Incoming 6th Grade Parent Orientation Slide Presentation

Click here to view the slide presentation



SCHOOL PICTURES

Your School Portraits can now be ordered. Click here for more information.
  

YEARBOOKS

The price of a yearbook is now $70 and may be preordered by using the following link: yearbookforever.com   Yearbooks may be purchased until May 15 and the deadline for parent ads is February 14.  

 

ID BADGES & LANYARDS

Lost or broken IDs or lanyards can be replaced by submitting the form that can be found on the student's chromebook under FD BOOKMARKS. Students are also able to access the form from their ClassLink launchpad.

 

LOST & FOUND

Water bottles, books, clothing, sweatshirts, shoes/sneakers are placed in the back of both cafeterias. Eye glasses, jewelry, pocketbooks, cell phones are in the Main Office.


 

Graphic with text: 'Students of the Quarter'

STUDENTS OF THE QUARTER

The Student of the Quarter award is given to students chosen by their teachers.

Students selected demonstrate excellence in leadership, participation, attendance, work ethic, and citizenship. Recipients are chosen at the end of the quarter. Stay tuned.....

Here they are!  Students of the 2nd Quarter

Current News

SAVOR THE NIGHT, CELEBRATE COMMUNITY

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Set against the stunning backdrop of Howitt Middle School's native garden, the first-ever "Taste of Farmingdale Under the Stars" event was brimming with delightful flavors, fantastic company, and lively music.

On Thursday, May 1, 2025, months of hard work and collaboration culminated in the Farmingdale School District’s inaugural “Taste of Farmingdale Under the Stars” event at Howitt Middle School. The gathering occurred in the school’s native garden, beautifully situated between the campus buildings. The twinkling lights created a magical atmosphere, and the weather was perfect. Mrs. Cristina Marzillier, a sixth-grade teacher at Howitt Middle School and the school’s Garden Club advisor, took the lead in organizing this event. She’d long dreamed of an occasion for the Farmingdale community, teachers, staff, families, and friends to come together and enjoy the offerings of Farmingdale’s fantastic local restaurants. Mrs. Marzillier envisioned an atmosphere filled with music provided by the Howitt Music Department, paired with laughter and conversation under the stars, fostering a genuine sense of community while showcasing the native garden and paying tribute to its roots.

“Tonight is not just a celebration of food and community—it is the realization of a dream, a tribute to collaboration, and a moment to honor the roots that helped this vision grow,” said Mrs. Marzillier. “It is also a chance to recognize the people who planted the very first seeds figuratively and literally.”

More than a dozen local restaurants and vendors from Farmingdale were excited to participate in this inaugural event. They generously contributed tables, linens, and an irresistible array of delicious food that guests simply couldn't get enough of. From gourmet sliders, pasta, and empanadas to savory gluten-free delights and decadent desserts, there was something to satisfy every palate. Their commitment to the community was evident in every bite, every smile, and every moment of shared joy under the starlit sky. Each restaurant brought its unique flair, showcasing the diverse culinary talents that Farmingdale had to offer. Guests wandered from table to table, sampling the exquisite offerings and engaging in lively conversations with the chefs and vendors eager to share their culinary stories.

“It’s amazing what can be accomplished when a community comes together,” remarked Farmingdale Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini. “This event has not only highlighted the incredible food and talent our town has to offer but has also reinforced what makes Farmingdale truly special—our spirit of togetherness and resilience.”

As the evening ended, the community gathered to hear from Mrs. Marzillier, who honored retired Farmingdale State College professor Michael Veracka for his pivotal role in the garden. She also expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the event's success. The “Taste of Farmingdale Under the Stars” had undoubtedly sown the seeds for what promised to become a beloved tradition.

The Native Garden at Howitt Middle School, established in 2017, has become a thriving space thanks to dedicated colleagues and enthusiastic student Garden Club members. Club Advisors include Mrs. Christina Marzillier, Mrs. Varneet Kaur, and Mr. Matthew Szabo. Their collective efforts have transformed the garden into a symbol of growth and community, reflecting the club's motto: “Dalers Bloom and Grow!”

A heartfelt thank you to all the individuals and groups who collaborated to ensure the night's success:

  • Farmingdale Federation of Teachers
  • Howitt Middle School Custodial Staff
  • Howitt Music Department
  • Howitt Steppers Farmingdale
  • Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini
  • Howitt Middle School Principal Mike Gavalas
  • Gina Brinskelle and the Howitt Middle School PTA
  • Samantha Stoll
  • Anna McCarthy and family
  • Samantha Black
  • Rosemary Lee
  • Pavese Party Tents
  • New Line Linens
  • 317 Main Street
  • Vico
  • Burgerology
  • Casa Stellina
  • The Coop
  • Croxley’s
  • Library Cafe
  • Mary’s Pizza
  • The Recovery Room Cafe
  • The Nutty Irishman
  • Tap Room
  • Uncle Joey’s Rainbow Explosion
  • Vespa
  • Vice Doughnuts
  • The Villager
  • ZuZu

DALERS SHINE IN PTA REFLECTIONS PROGRAM

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Each year, the Farmingdale School District’s PTA motivates students to participate in the National PTA Reflections program. This initiative inspires students to express their thoughts and feelings creatively, fostering a love for learning that goes beyond the arts. Student submissions may fall into various categories, including: Dance, Film production, Literature, Music composition, Photography, and Visual arts. All entries must align with the chosen inspiring theme—this year’s focus is “Accepting Imperfection.” Dalers were motivated, resulting in an impressive total of 68 entries. On the evening of Wednesday, April 30, 2025, a District-Wide Reflections Ceremony took place at Farmingdale High School. This event celebrated the remarkable program and all student artists who participated.

The Reflections Ceremony welcomed students, PTA members, and families to gather in a jubilant celebration of every participant’s hard work and commitment. Special thanks to the PTA's unwavering support and encouragement, which nurtured these young artists, with heartfelt appreciation for Farmingdale’s dedicated PTA Reflections chairs: Sheree Jones, Victoria Curran, Jesica Lundberg, Kelly Verdi, and Karyn Tanacan.Thirty-one students advanced to the Nassau County judging level, with Howitt Middle School seventh graders Stefan Mastermaker and Daliza Laporta progressing to the prestigious New York State level. Anticipation builds as winners await the announcement in May.

The National PTA Reflections program has long been a beacon of artistic achievement, confidence-building, and passion-nurturing. With a rich legacy spanning over 50 years, it inspires students to express their thoughts and emotions creatively, instilling a love for learning that transcends the arts. Annually, over 300,000 students find a platform to shine and grow, a testament to the program’s enduring impact.

Dalers Who Advanced to the Nassau County Level of Judging:

  •  Albany Avenue Sarah Ng, Vincent Boccassi, Ariana Hackman, Devin Gutkowski, Kesey Morrow, Olivia Viola
  • Northside Liv Smith, Charlotte Kinneary, Hudson Attia, Aubrey Dulgarian, Ashlyn Murphy, Lilian Seltenreich
  • Saltzman East Memorial Benjamin Elnick, Vincent Malizia, Jude Reggio, Jessie Becerra
  • Woodward Parkway Isabella Verdi, Morgan Petersen, Kayla Petersen, Tommy Messina, Sarah Russell, Haven Kinhackl, Theodore Voelpel, Dylan Petersen
  • Howitt Middle School Addison Suwalski, Ryland Hasselberger, Emily Kelly, Chloe Alvarez, Madison Brinskelle

SPRING CONCERTS 2025

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All concerts this season will take place in-person, with no need for tickets to attend. Additionally, all concerts will be recorded. Links from each performance will be made available here a few days after the performance.


APRIL 10, 2025 JAZZ SHOWCASE

MOVE, PLAY, GROW

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Farmingdale School District's Annual Wellness Fair

On April 24, 2025, the Farmingdale School District's Wellness Committee hosted its annual Wellness Fair at Farmingdale High School, centered around the theme "Move, Play, Grow." This lively and engaging event promoted well-being and healthy living within the Farmingdale community. Students enthusiastically participated in various activities and workshops, gaining valuable insights and practical skills to boost their physical and mental health.

A Positive Atmosphere

The fair was alive with positivity as families explored numerous booths and interactive displays. Participants learned about the significance of mindfulness, sampled delicious and nutritious snacks, and spun the wheel of wellness, ensuring there was something enjoyable and beneficial for everyone.

Engaging Activities

Exciting fitness challenges, such as the Trike-A-Thon and a Water Polo demonstration at the Aquatic Center, highlighted the importance of staying active. A popular attraction was the CPR demonstration conducted by the South Farmingdale and Village of Farmingdale Volunteer Fire Company, where students could learn life-saving techniques from trained professionals. The Wellness Fair was an invaluable platform for nurturing a culture of well-being and empowerment within the Farmingdale community, leaving a lasting impression on all who participated.

BE A DALER, NOT A DUD

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Behavior at athletic events has declined in recent years, both locally and at the National level, with ejections reaching an all-time high. This has led to several issues, including a shortage of referees willing to take on these roles. Our student-athletes have expressed how this impacts their ability to stay focused while competing. To address this, our Varsity Leaders Club collaborated with the high school video production class under the direction of Ms. Jensly Cella, to create a video that is both funny and serious, aimed at improving behavior and reversing the current trend. The video serves as a reminder that we all have some responsibility on game day.

FHS Sportsmanship Video

HMS Sportsmanship Video

By The Numbers