Farmingdale High School students visit Woodward Parkway Elementary School to conclude "Be Your Best Week" with lessons on character and leadership.

Farmingdale High School students stepped into the role of mentors this week, creating a memorable experience for the district’s youngest learners. "Be Your Best Week" at Woodward Parkway Elementary School concluded on January 9, 2026, with a special event known as Inspiration Day.

High school students engaged with the elementary students on essential life skills, including goal setting, courage, and the importance of following their passions. The visiting students facilitated a group reading of Jon Gordon’s heartwarming book, The Hard Hat for Kids. This story served as a catalyst for a meaningful discussion regarding the importance of hard work, effort, encouragement, respect, and enthusiasm.

Events like Inspiration Day continue to strengthen the bond between grade levels and instill core values in students of all ages.

Identifying a Need

Creativity often begins with a simple observation. While learning about lending libraries in their Geodes curriculum, first graders in Mrs. DeRuvo’s class at Woodward Parkway noticed something missing: their school didn’t have one of its own. Rather than waiting for adults to solve the problem, the students took action. They envisioned a mobile library but knew they needed technical help to bring it to life. This sparked a unique partnership between the elementary students and the Farmingdale High School Technology Department.

A Hands-On Field Trip with Special Guests

On January 16, the vision began to take shape. The first-grade class traveled to the high school for a special field trip, where they were greeted by high schoolers from the Child Lab program, technology teacher, Mr. Sterler, and his students. The younger students toured the technology labs and woodworking shops. There, they saw their idea come to life: a mobile library on wheels that could travel easily throughout the elementary building.

The significance of this cross-level collaboration drew distinguished guests. Woodward Parkway Principal Dr. Patrick Klocek, Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini, and Board of Education trustees George Andriopoulos and Kathy Lively joined the visit to observe the partnership in action. Their attendance underscored the district’s commitment to supporting student agency and innovative learning experiences.

Mentorship in the Making

This event was more than just a construction project; it was a lesson in mentorship. As administrators looked on, High school students acted as role models, guiding the first graders through the steps of construction, safety, and design. The first graders didn't just watch, they participated. With the help of Mr. Sterler and their high school mentors, they helped complete parts of the construction, leaving the labs feeling capable and confident.

Building Community Pride

The finished mobile library will soon be roaming the halls of Woodward Parkway, serving as a lasting resource for the school. However, the true value of the project lies in the connection it forged. By applying technical skills to a real-world project, the high schoolers showed the first graders that their ideas matter. This collaboration highlights the strong sense of community within the district, proving that great things happen when students of all ages work together.

Teachers and Principals Welcome Families for an Evening of Interactive Learning and Games

The Farmingdale School District hosted students and families for the annual Family Math Night on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. The event took place at Howitt Middle School at 6:00 p.m., bringing the community together for an evening dedicated to educational entertainment.

District teachers were on hand to guide families through a variety of interactive games and challenges. These educators expertly facilitated the activities and managed to sneak in valuable learning moments amidst the fun. The hands-on approach allowed parents and students to explore mathematical concepts together in a relaxed and supportive environment.

Principals from the district’s K-8 schools attended the event to greet families and support the teachers running the stations. The presence of administration and staff highlighted the strong partnership between home and school within the Farmingdale community. We were thrilled to see so many families enjoying mathematics together and look forward to another successful event next year.

Mrs. Leff’s Third Grade Class Combines Celebration with Academic Review

The New Year kicked off with a burst of excitement and color at Woodward Parkway this week. Mrs. Leff’s Third Grade Class held their very own countdown celebration by throwing confetti around the room, but this party came with an educational twist.

Each piece of paper contained a specific academic task, including a math problem, a spelling challenge, or a question about the class history. Teams raced to collect the most confetti and answer the questions correctly. While the group with the highest score took the specific win, every student demonstrated outstanding teamwork and cooperation throughout the activity. To celebrate the shared success and spirited effort, every student received a rainbow pencil as a prize.

Woodward Parkway is ready for the spotlight! To prepare for their big debut, our talented students performed three daytime concerts for their peers and staff members. The festive showcase included:

• The 3rd Grade Chorus, directed by Mrs. Stephanie Haas
• The Senior Band was directed by Mr. Joseph DeAngelis.
• The Senior Orchestra, directed by Mrs. Tara Cocheo.

We ended on a high note with the 4th and 5th Grade Chorus, led by Ms. Emilie D’Andrilli, performing a “Polar Express” medley featuring special guests from the North Pole!