Daler and beekeeper Mr. Jason Golden joined the Howitt Middle School Garden Club for a sweet adventure! Mr. Golden demonstrated his enchanting honey-harvesting skills and even introduced live bees to captivate the audience! The children had the opportunity to step into the beekeeper's shoes, donning his gear and experiencing a newfound respect for these minute pollinators and the crucial role they play in our ecosystem. To top off an already fantastic day, Mr. Golden presented everyone with a taste of the "Golden" honey, straight from his family's hives! Now, that's a recipe for a truly unforgettable day!

On Monday, October 21, 2024, the world-renowned brass group, the Dallas Brass, performed a spectacular concert in front of a packed house at Howitt Middle School. The group members held clinics during the school day, working with our music students in the Howitt Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble. The Howitt musicians performed in small woodwind and brass ensembles during the clinic. Dallas Brass members gave instrumental feedback and discussed ear training and improvisation topics. The band put on an entertaining, interactive show that evening that included bringing up all the students in each band to perform with them. It was truly an inspiring experience for all of our young musicians to see and hear some of the top brass players in the world. At the concert's end, the students lined up as the Dallas Brass all graciously handed out posters and signed autographs for them.

Howitt Symphonic Band director Erica Hartmann organized the event with assistance from Wind Ensemble Director Jen Tower.

Watch the concert HERE!!!

Fueled by love and community, Jay Asparro races through his fifth marathon of the week, honoring his grandmother and raising hope for Alzheimer's awareness.

The story of Jay Asparro is one of resilience, dedication, and heartfelt purpose. As he embarked on his fifth marathon of the week, starting at Howitt Middle School, he was bolstered by the enthusiastic support of the Farmingdale School District. Their heartfelt encouragement, symbolized by handmade posters and purple ribbons, paid tribute to Jay's journey and his grandmother, Ann Asparro.

Over the past seven years, Jay has raised over $200,000 for the Long Island Alzheimer's & Dementia Center, his goal being to raise funds and awareness and support for those affected by the disease. Jay's journey is fueled by his love for his grandmother, Ann Asparro, and a passion for running. Witnessing his grandmother's battle against Alzheimer's and the sacrifices his family made, he was inspired to make a difference.

Seven Marathons in Seven Days, finishing with the New York Marathon on Sunday, November 3, 2024—That’s nothing compared to the challenges caregivers face daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly while caring for their loved ones.

The track at Howitt Middle School and Farmingdale High School was the pick for Jay Asparro’s fifth marathon of the week. At 8 AM, amidst Howitt’s Spirit Club cheers, Jay got his first glimpse of the Daler Pride that would stay with him throughout the day. Students made posters, purple Alzheimer's ribbons, and a stunning banner. Their generosity extended to providing 300 water bottles, each adorned with the Ann Asparro label, a tribute to Jay's beloved grandmother. Howitt cheerleaders ran alongside Jay in their vibrant uniforms, their cheers ringing out. Howitt’s Cross Country teams joined the race. Throughout the day, Jay was greeted by new faces as the Physical Education and Health Departments took their classes to the track.

After covering 13.1 miles at Howitt, Jay traveled to Farmingdale High School. There, he was greeted by the JV Cheerleaders and serenaded by the High School Marching Band, their half-time songs echoing in the air, keeping Jay's spirits high and his pace steady. Jay's family and friends ran beside him as he completed the day's distance, their shared joy permeating the air.

Farmingdale School district was honored to host Jay Asparro—his presence inspired countless individuals to contribute to a cause greater than themselves. Through his unwavering commitment and infectious spirit, Jay turned an ordinary day into an extraordinary celebration of hope and illuminated the path for others, reminding everyone that together, they could make a lasting difference in the fight against Alzheimer's.

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.

A Community Project That’s Making a Splash

Five Koi fish were introduced into the new Commons Pond at Farmingdale High School. This project was made possible thanks to some generous community contributions, including:

• Starkie Brothers for the pond liner
• No Maintenance Decking for the deck boards
• Home Depot for the lumber
• Mr. Kevin Brennan of Bay Shore for the Koi fish
• Mr. Mike Pavese (FHS Security guard) for the concrete blocks
• Intro to the Skilled Trades course for the workforce

The creation of this vibrant oasis of life and tranquility is also thanks to the tireless dedication and passion of Mr. Matthew Hobbes. His dedication to creating this serene sanctuary, often on his own time, deserves our recognition and appreciation.

Learn MORE about our Technology Department's projects. Take a look at The Legacy—a monthly newsletter designed to keep the community informed about hands-on experiences in the shops at both Weldon E. Howitt Middle School and Farmingdale High School.