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    <title>East Meadow School District - News Feed</title>
    <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us</link>
    <description />
    <copyright>Copyright 2012 Syntax Communications</copyright>
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      <title>QUEST Students Cast Their Votes</title>
      <description>Fifth-grade QUEST students at Parkway Elementary School explored the natural wonders of the world through &amp;ldquo;The New 7 Natural Wonders of the World,&amp;rdquo; an initiative that united the global population in selecting the greatest geological phenomena on earth. From 28 finalist &amp;ldquo;wonders,&amp;rdquo; hundreds of millions of people worldwide cast their votes to decide which would be the seven greatest wonders of the world. 

The QUEST students created and shared PowerPoint presentations that informed Parkway&amp;rsquo;s third-grade students about these awe-inspiring places with fascinating facts, creative typography, and gorgeous photographs. Some of the geological formations presented were waterfalls, caves, canyons, and volcanoes. 

Of the 28 finalists, the seven natural wonders are: Amazon Basin, Puerta Princesa Underground River, Iguazu Falls, Ha Long Bay, Komodo National Park, Table Mountain, and Jeju Island.</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4618</link>
      <pubDate>Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Kindergarten Registration</title>
      <description>Click Here for More Information</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4075</link>
      <pubDate>Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Approved 2012-13 Calendar</title>
      <description>Click Here to View the Calendar</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4465</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Think About It</title>
      <description>Students at Meadowbrook Elementary School enjoyed &amp;ldquo;Stories of Substance,&amp;rdquo; a special assembly through the PTA Cultural Arts Program that used drama, humor and music in a creative and powerful way to effectively educate students about making healthy choices. The performance was written and performed by young adults and developed from actual stories in the community. 

Through the skits, the students learned about the importance of having good manners and respecting one another, the differences between being a bully, a bystander and an upstander, the consequences of spending too much time playing video games, and inappropriate texting. Each skit ended with the phrases &amp;ldquo;Think about it&amp;rdquo; and &amp;ldquo;What would you do?&amp;rdquo;</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4470</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Woodland Students Take A Stand Against Cyberbullying</title>
      <description>Woodland Middle School received a $2,000 grant from Cablevision for its role in encouraging students to go online and sign the Power to Learn &amp;ldquo;Delete Cyberbullying&amp;rdquo; pledge. The pledge drive was part of a year-long program which featured a series of activities to raise awareness among students and parents about the risks associated with online bullying. Power to Learn is Cablevision&amp;rsquo;s nationally recognized education initiative and is dedicated to integrating technology into the classroom.

The check was presented to Principal James Lethbridge and Assistant Principal Patricia Graham by Cablevision&amp;rsquo;s Power to Learn Manager of School Relations Martha Turner. Mr. Lethbridge and Ms. Graham gratefully accepted on behalf of the school. 

Town of Hempstead Supervisor Kate Murray was in attendance and praised the students for their commitment to take a stand against cyberbullying. She spoke about the potential consequences of online bullying and said, &amp;ldquo;Students today are coming of age in a technological world and need to be taught that cyberbullying can have serious, lasting repercussions.&amp;rdquo;

Congratulations to the Woodland students for taking part in this important project!</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4398</link>
      <pubDate>Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Exploring the Lives of Native Americans and Settlers</title>
      <description>The fourth-grade teachers at Parkway Elementary School have been working with an AUSSIE consultant on a unit that explores Native Americans and settlers. The curriculum they have written, which is linked to the Common Core State Standards, employs mathematics, science, social studies, creative writing, and ELA. Computer teacher Maria Crayne-Leftwich also developed a Wikipedia page on Native American legends to assist the students with their assignments.

Fourth-grade students had the opportunity to videoconference with the Cleveland Museum of Art on the subject of Native Americans and settlers. After viewing landscape art, they deconstructed the artwork into small details, using their imaginations to tell a story. The students also viewed old photos and computer-generated images of Native Americans, settlers, and their habitats, and discussed the differences between log cabins, teepees, long houses, and wigwams.

The museum provided materials to be used during the videoconference such as beads, buttons, cloth, leather, fur, corn, beans, and feathers. By working in small groups, each student took on the role of either a settler or a Native American and traded or bartered these items without speaking because of the language barrier. 

The Parkway students enjoyed their trip back in time and can&amp;rsquo;t wait for their next videoconferencing adventure!</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4302</link>
      <pubDate>Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Partners in Education</title>
      <description>Earlier this school year, Woodland Middle School art teacher and Art Club advisor Dr. John Healy was awarded a $1,500 grant from NEFCU, which was used to purchase art supplies for the Art Club.

To thank NEFCU for their generous donation, Art Club students completed a beautiful art mural entitled &amp;ldquo;Partners in Education,&amp;rdquo; which depicts Long Island with headshots of students in the club. This special piece was commissioned for NEFCU and will be formally dedicated at the NEFCU office building in February 2012. 

In December 2011, NEFCU CEO Ed Paternostro and Vice President for Marketing and Community Relations Valerie Garguilo visited Woodland to view a preview of the mural and meet the students in the Art Club as well as Dr. Healy and Principal James Lethbridge.</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4204</link>
      <pubDate>Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Meadowbrook Holds Its First Spelling Bee </title>
      <description>Meadowbrook Elementary School held its first-ever spelling bee on January 6, 2012. Five student representatives from each fourth and fifth-grade class participated in an intense competition as their fellow classmates sat in awe of the difficult words being spelled. 

After approximately 45 minutes of rigorous competition, it was down to two of the school&amp;rsquo;s top spellers. Fifth grader Kaylin Anest captured the title of runner-up, while Shayan Huda, also in fifth grade, was named the Meadowbrook Spelling Bee Champion with the winning word &amp;ldquo;behemoth.&amp;rdquo; When Principal Susan Hyde asked Shayan the secret of his success, he replied, &amp;ldquo;I studied a lot!&amp;rdquo;

Shayan will go on to the county level of competition on March 24 at Hofstra University.</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4177</link>
      <pubDate>Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Exploration Through Education</title>
      <description>Third-grade student Argonauts in Debra Berger&amp;rsquo;s class at Bowling Green Elementary School are exploring basic physics with scientists from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as part of the Jason Project&amp;rsquo;s &amp;ldquo;Exploration Through Education Program.&amp;rdquo;

The students are learning about velocity, speed, acceleration, and momentum based on Newton&amp;rsquo;s Laws of Motion on Earth and on Mars. The curriculum incorporates technology and state-of-the-art tools which meet the Common Core State Standards. 

All of the students are inspired and motivated to become future leaders in the science field through the authentic analysis of data and exploration. &amp;ldquo;I tell my parents what I learn every day in class. They think I am making it up because it sounds like middle school work and not work for third graders!&amp;rdquo; said student Saniya Gaitonde.</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4122</link>
      <pubDate>Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Woodland Sponsors Clothing Drive</title>
      <description>The PTA and Spirit Committee at Woodland Middle School sponsored their annual clothing drive. Together, they collected over a ton of wearable and used clothing, shoes, belts, handbags, stuffed animals, and plastic toys, all of which will be donated to the less fortunate. 

Each home base at Woodland participated in the drive, and the home base that collected the most bags of items won a bagel breakfast. Congratulations to the students in Karen Schmidt&amp;rsquo;s class for capturing this honor.

This is the sixth year that the PTA and Spirit Committee have collaborated on this wonderful drive.</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3982</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Pre-Kindergarten Program</title>
      <description>Click Here for More Information</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3960</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 18 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Bowling Green’s Terrific Spellers</title>
      <description>Fifth-grade students at Bowling Green Elementary School participated in their annual spelling bee in December 2011.

Each fifth-grade class sent two class champions to the school contest. The competition, under the direction of reading teachers Ellen Kelter and Jennie Re, was fierce as the students competed for the title of &amp;ldquo;Grade Five Spelling Bee Champion.&amp;rdquo; 

Bowling Green&amp;rsquo;s runner-up was Matthew Percoco, with Ahmed Rauf taking the title of champion. Ahmed will continue on to the next level of competition, the Long Island Semifinals of the Scripps Howard News Service Spelling Bee.

Congratulations to all of the participants in this year&amp;rsquo;s contest.</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3965</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 18 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>A Young Artist Exhibition</title>
      <description>The East Meadow Union Free School District held its biannual art exhibition at the Leon J. Campo Salisbury Center on November 29. Student artwork was showcased from all of the district&amp;rsquo;s buildings and included the budding artists in first grade up to the more accomplished artists in twelfth grade. 

Among some of the works displayed were &amp;ldquo;Doodle 4 Google&amp;rdquo; (doodles are decorative changes to the Google logo), self-portraits, three-dimensional sculptures, pastels, photography, computer graphics, collages, watercolors, and printmaking.

Special thanks to Assistant to the Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Cindy Munter, Director of Music and Art Abby Behr, Art Chairperson Heather Anastasio, and Coordination/Program Lisa Schampier.</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3854</link>
      <pubDate>Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>East Meadow’s Terrific Kids</title>
      <description>At the November Board of Education Meeting, select students at Woodland and W. Tresper Clarke Middle Schools were honored for their academic achievements and/or citizenship for the months of September, October, and November. Each of the district&amp;rsquo;s Terrific Kids was presented with a certificate of achievement and a bumper sticker, sponsored by the East Meadow Kiwanis, and presented by the Board of Education, Kiwanis President Mitchell Allen, and Superintendent of Schools Louis R. DeAngelo.</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3855</link>
      <pubDate>Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>All-State Student Musicians</title>
      <description>Congratulations to our 15 All-State Student Musicians from W.T. Clarke and East Meadow High Schools on their outstanding performances at the NYSSMA Winter Conference in Rochester, N.Y.



East Meadow High School 
Andrew Hochler, Trumpet, Instrumental Jazz Ensemble
Adam Cooperberg, Bassoon, Symphonic Band
Louis Pollenz, Trumpet, Instrumental Jazz Ensemble
Stephan Stanzione, Symphonic Orchestra
Aya Terki, Cello, String Orchestra
Jonathan Tilles, Trombone, Wind Ensemble
Anson Wang, Bb Clarinet, Symphonic Band

W.Tresper Clarke High School
Wei-Ming Koh, Bb Clarinet, Wind Ensemble
Alexandra Leonardo, Flute, Wind Ensemble
Jordi Lotito, Violin, Symphonic Orchestra
Patricia Luecken, Trumpet, Symphonic Band
Eric Ratner, Trombone, Instrumental Jazz Ensemble
Kevin Sarmiento, Violin, Symphony Orchestra
Sarah Shaiman, Soprano, Vocal Jazz Ensemble
Daniel Wang, Violin, String Orchestra</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3825</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 04 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Linking the Common Core State Standards</title>
      <description>On November 8, the East Meadow Union Free School District conducted its second Superintendent&amp;rsquo;s Conference Day, which continued the theme from September of &amp;ldquo;Linking the Common Core State Standards.&amp;rdquo; Workshops were held in each of the district&amp;rsquo;s buildings throughout the day. 

At the Leon J. Campo Center, Heinemann Staff Developer Debbie Clemence and Coordinator of Literacy and Funded Programs Dr. Maria Casamassa facilitated a Leveled Literacy Intervention (LLI) workshop. The LLI program, designed by authors Irene C. Fountas and Gay Su Pinnell, has been a focus for staff development for the district&amp;rsquo;s elementary reading teachers and intervention assistants. The LLI program is a small-group, supplementary intervention program intended for young students who need assistance with reading and writing. It is designed to bring these students up to grade-level performance in as few as 18-24 weeks. LLI is a powerful, research-based early intervention program that can prevent literacy difficulties before they turn into long-term challenges.

At Woodland and W.T. Clarke Middle Schools, staff and administrators worked with renowned middle school educator Nancy Doda throughout the conference day to cultivate learning communities and to create effective curriculum and methods of instruction. 

Teachers throughout the district unpacked the Common Core State Standards and created units of study that align with the standards. The teachers in the high schools also worked with the district directors and coordinators on the Common Core State Standards.

Assistant to the Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Cindy Munter said, &amp;ldquo;As I visited the schools on Superintendent&amp;rsquo;s Conference Day, it was very exciting to be part of conversations with teachers as they discussed aligning the curriculum to the Common Core State Standards. The standards provide a clear and consistent understanding of what children are expected to learn in order to be college and career ready. In addition, the day afforded the teachers an opportunity to collaborate and think about various instructional strategies that are both rigorous and robust, incorporating 21st century skills.&amp;rdquo; 

In addition to workshops addressing the Common Core State Standards, Executive Director Alane Fagin of CAPS (Child Abuse Prevention Services) conducted a presentation at W.T. Clarke High School entitled &amp;ldquo;Creating a Safe School Climate and Community: What Educators Need to Know.&amp;rdquo; Ms. Fagin provided information about bullying and cyberbullying prevention, sexting, and Internet safety to staff and administrators. 

Superintendent&amp;rsquo;s Conference Day was once again a great success, providing teachers from across the district with new and innovative ideas to infuse into their teaching for the 2011-2012 school year.

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      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3719</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 27 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>EMHS Student Selected as HOBY Ambassador</title>
      <description>East Meadow High School sophomore Katrina Bamba has been selected as a 2011 Hugh O&amp;rsquo;Brian Youth (HOBY) Leadership ambassador. Katrina will participate with other teens at the HOBY Conference in the spring of 2012. This conference brings tomorrow&amp;rsquo;s leaders together with today&amp;rsquo;s recognized leaders in business, government, education and other professions to discuss present and future issues.

Katrina was selected through a rigorous process that included input from faculty, students and administrators. She impressed the panel with her poise, confidence and genuine concern for others. 

Katrina is a very conscientious student who is involved in many extracurricular activities that she enjoys and values. Among them are the Pre-med Club, Environmental Club, Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Model Congress, Science Honor Society and Math Team. An accomplished swimmer, she is also on the EMHS swim team as well as a year-round team at the Long Island Aquatic Club. 

With her affinity for science and a desire to help others, Katrina is looking forward to a position in the medical field in the future. She credits her parents and her love of learning as her inspiration and motivation. 

East Meadow High School is proud to be represented by such a mature, intelligent and sincere young woman.</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3637</link>
      <pubDate>Thu, 17 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Meadowbrook’s Monster Mash</title>
      <description>Second-grade students in Michelle Comiskey&amp;rsquo;s class at Meadowbrook Elementary School held a videoconference with second graders from Oswego BOCES #21 to compare their &amp;ldquo;monsters,&amp;rdquo; a project that centered on the use of verbal instructions and how those instructions were conveyed and carried out between the two schools.

During a previous videoconference, each school shared directions on how to make a monster. Some of the Meadowbrook students&amp;rsquo; directions included using four pink triangle eyes, four protruding ears, four arms, a pair of wings, and six legs. The directions conveyed by the Oswego school included using three balloon heads, four plastic cup arms, two paper plate legs, and two plastic cup feet.

Each school created a monster based on the other school&amp;rsquo;s instructions. During the second videoconference, the students discussed the similarities and differences between their monsters. 

To further reinforce the students&amp;rsquo; communication skills, the videoconference ended with a question-and-answer session that focused on the kinds of sports the students like to play.</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3583</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 14 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Staff Development at Meadowbrook</title>
      <description>Nassau BOCES Model Schools professional developer Paula Goldstein instructed the teachers at Meadowbrook Elementary School on the newest features of Microsoft Word 2010. They learned about the various templates for newsletters, page layout, print layout, numbered and bulleted lists, how to save projects, and more. 

The Meadowbrook students use Microsoft Office to create stories, poems, research papers, and newsletters, among other projects. With its editing and drawing tools, this multi-media authoring program is essential for teachers and students to understand. It is a strong tool for supporting the new Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts.

&amp;ldquo;When you have what you want, always &amp;lsquo;save.&amp;rsquo; Don&amp;rsquo;t be afraid to try something &amp;ndash; hit a button. That&amp;rsquo;s what kids do. Adults are often afraid of consequences,&amp;rdquo; said Ms. Goldstein.</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3584</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 14 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>W.T. Clarke Honors Two Alumni</title>
      <description>W.T. Clarke High School in the East Meadow Union Free School District held its biannual Hall of Achievement Induction Ceremony on Saturday, October 29, honoring two Clarke alumni: Michael Goldberger (Class of &amp;rsquo;68) and Irene Rosenfeld (Class of &amp;rsquo;71). Mr. Goldberger is the Director of Athletics at Brown University, and Dr. Rosenfeld is the current Chairman and CEO of Kraft Foods. 

Mr. Goldberger was unable to attend the event because of prior commitments at Brown University, so Dean of Students John Boyle accepted the plaque on his behalf. W.T. Clarke High School Principal Timothy Voels said that Mr. Goldberger had been captain of the football, basketball and baseball teams when he was a senior in 1968, while Mr. Boyle had been the water boy for the football team that year. 

In attendance at the Hall of Achievement Induction Ceremony was Dr. Arnold Wallace, the first assistant principal of W.T. Clarke High School, who held that position for 40 years; Board of Education President Joseph Parisi; Board of Education Trustee Marcee Rubinstein; Assistant to the Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Cindy Munter; current assistant principals Geraldine Doddato and Richard Lagattolla; East Meadow Kiwanis Club President Mitchell Allen; Town of Hempstead Supervisor Kate Murray; and Legislator Norma Gonsalves. 

After the two alumni were honored, Dr. Wallace spoke to those gathered. &amp;ldquo;I get so much pleasure to see someone from this school rise to the heights that you did,&amp;rdquo; he said to Dr. Rosenfeld. &amp;ldquo;What makes this district great is that the Board of Education, the community, and the teachers -- they care. I love this school district. This is family.&amp;rdquo; 

Dr. Rosenfeld said, &amp;ldquo;This is an incredible honor for me. I am overwhelmed. I haven&amp;rsquo;t been back here in 40 years. I just came back a few weeks ago for my 40th reunion. I learned a lot about leadership and self-reliance here. I made so many lifelong friends. This school played an important role in my life. I&amp;rsquo;m thrilled to be back.&amp;rdquo;</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3525</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 06 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Barnum Woods Student Initiates “Let’s Jump!”</title>
      <description>A group of over 550 students from all grades at Barnum Woods Elementary School helped National Geographic Kids magazine set a Guinness World Record for the most people performing jumping jacks in a 24-hour period. To break the record, more than 20,000 people worldwide needed to complete one minute of jumping jacks in events occurring between 3:00 p.m. EST on October 11, 2011 and 3:00 p.m. EST on October 12, 2011.

&amp;ldquo;Let&amp;rsquo;s Jump!&amp;rdquo; supports First Lady Michelle Obama&amp;rsquo;s &amp;ldquo;Let&amp;rsquo;s Move!&amp;rdquo; campaign, which encourages kids and families to be healthy and active. Mrs. Obama kicked off the 24-hour period with one minute of jumping jacks on the White House lawn.

The Barnum Woods &amp;ldquo;Let&amp;rsquo;s Jump!&amp;rdquo; event was the brainchild of one very dedicated fifth grader, Justin Colon. As he browsed the Guinness World Records website, Justin came across the challenge. &amp;ldquo;I had a good idea that maybe our school could participate,&amp;rdquo; he said. The next day, Justin brought the idea to physical education teacher Debbie Barbato, who embraced the idea as did the rest of the Barnum staff.. &amp;ldquo;Last year we did &amp;lsquo;Jog for Japan,&amp;rsquo; and I thought that I could make a difference with this challenge,&amp;rdquo; explained Justin. 

Way to go, Justin!</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3390</link>
      <pubDate>Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Parkway Celebrates Fall</title>
      <description>Students, faculty, friends, and family at Parkway Elementary School all joined together on a sunny fall Saturday to take part in the annual Fall Festival, a tradition for the past four years thanks to PTA members and co-chairs Tami Auricchio and Joanne Homan.

One of the many highlights of the day was the &amp;ldquo;Autumnal Hayride.&amp;rdquo; Community member Bobby Rauchbauer generously donated his time by turning his ATV into a &amp;ldquo;tractor.&amp;rdquo; A wagon filled with hay was hitched to his vehicle and families were taken on a fun ride around the school grounds. 

Parkway PTA President Stephanie Ramos, along with PTA members Ivy Minsky and Anne Hartman, fed some of the hungry crowd by serving up delicious homemade pulled pork sandwiches and zeppole. In addition, children piled into the school&amp;rsquo;s gymnasium to take turns in the bouncing ball room and on the slides. 

Everyone in attendance had a great time and looks forward to next year&amp;rsquo;s Fall Festival!</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3391</link>
      <pubDate>Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>National Merit Commended Student Announced</title>
      <description>The East Meadow Union Free School District is pleased to announce that Japbani Nanda from W.T. Clarke High School has been named a Commended Student in the 2012 National Merit Scholarship Program based on her outstanding PSAT results. 

Japbani is among approximately 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation who are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Commended Students placed among the top five percent of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2012 competition.

Congratulations Japbani!</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3336</link>
      <pubDate>Thu, 20 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Students Accept Rachel’s Challenge</title>
      <description>Sixth-grade students at Woodland Middle School have accepted a big challenge: Rachel&amp;rsquo;s Challenge.

Rachel Joy Scott was the first person killed at Columbine High School on April 20, 1999. Her acts of kindness and compassion, coupled with the contents of her six diaries, have become the foundation for one of the most life-changing school programs in America. 

Rachel&amp;rsquo;s Challenge is a program that inspires, instructs, and enables students to bring positive change to their school atmosphere. Powerful video/audio footage of Rachel&amp;rsquo;s life and the Columbine tragedy holds students spellbound during a one-hour school presentation that motivates them to positive change in the way they treat others. While the program has impacted entertainers, politicians, sports celebrities, educators, and even two U.S. Presidents, students are the target audience and have responded with positive words, attitudes, and actions.

The message delivered through Rachel&amp;rsquo;s Challenge is simple: students have the power to make permanent, positive, and cultural changes in their schools and communities by embracing Rachel Scott&amp;rsquo;s way of kindness and compassion. The challenge also teaches students that by choosing positive influences, in the same manner as Martin Luther King, Jr. or Anne Frank, they can learn to become leaders and positive role models for others. 

During their lunch periods, the sixth graders signed the Rachel&amp;rsquo;s Challenge banner. Follow-up activities were conducted in classrooms to continue the chain reaction of acceptance throughout the grade level and to ensure that the program&amp;rsquo;s message will reach far beyond one school day and leave students with a lasting impression. Some of these activities included discussions on topics such as &amp;ldquo;What part of the assembly impacted you the most?&amp;rdquo; and &amp;ldquo;What can you do to continue Rachel&amp;rsquo;s chain reaction?&amp;rdquo; The students also completed a ditto, &amp;ldquo;How will you touch the world?&amp;rdquo; and then created five goals that would enable them to start their own chain reaction. 
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3286</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>McVey Creates a Quilt of the 50 States</title>
      <description>Librarian Ellen O&amp;rsquo;Neill at McVey Elementary School, along with computer teacher Anthony Fosso and librarian Regina DeMarco, spearheaded a very unique hands-on research project for the fourth-grade students, which will culminate with a special presentation on Flag Day 2012. The yearlong project combines social studies and science curricula while incorporating the Common Core State Standards.

During the summer of 2011, Ms. O&amp;rsquo;Neill wrote to the governor in each of the 50 United States, posing the question, &amp;ldquo;What makes your state unique?&amp;rdquo; On each letter she provided a square of canvas to be decorated with state &amp;ldquo;symbols.&amp;rdquo; The governors&amp;rsquo; offices responded by sending back the squares filled with a wide variety of state mottos, symbols, pins, and other decorations symbolizing their respective state. Some of the squares were returned hand-painted, stamped, and even collaged. 

Following their research of each state, students will be asked, &amp;ldquo;What would you add to the canvas?&amp;rdquo; Students have already begun discussing the governors&amp;rsquo; submissions and are incorporating brainstorming and problem-solving techniques to the activity. The canvases will be combined to create one large &amp;ldquo;quilt&amp;rdquo; that represents the entire country.

Ms. O&amp;rsquo;Neill will also write a very special letter to the Office of President Barak Obama, asking him to supply the center square. She envisions a traveling quilt for the future, which could be displayed at certain points of interest. &amp;ldquo;This quilt will not only belong to McVey, but the entire country,&amp;rdquo; she stated.</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3287</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>EMHS Announces 2012 National Merit Commended Students </title>
      <description>The East Meadow Union Free School District is pleased to announce that students Briana Finneran, Christopher Guevara, David Kim, and Edward Kim from East Meadow High School have been named Commended Students in the 2012 National Merit Scholarship Program based on their outstanding PSAT results. 

Briana, Christopher, David, and Edward are among approximately 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation who are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Commended Students placed among the top five percent of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2012 competition.

Congratulations Briana, Christopher, David, and Edward!</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3288</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>East Meadow Schools Partnering with the FREE Players Proudly Presents, “Damn Yankees”</title>
      <description>Click Here for More Information</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3258</link>
      <pubDate>Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Jets Soar to Victory as East Meadow High School Celebrates Homecoming 2011 </title>
      <description>
	East Meadow High School (EMHS) celebrated Homecoming 2011 in grand fashion, beginning with a colorful parade of class floats through the community and culminating with a convincing win by the Jets Varsity Football team. 

	

	&amp;ldquo;Board Games&amp;rdquo; served as the theme for the traditional parade of floats, as students worked diligently in the few weeks since school began to create eye-catching works of art to capture the attention of the community members that lined the streets, as well as the judges.

	The parade began at Veteran&amp;rsquo;s Memorial Park and ended at East Meadow High School, with the Color Guard and the Jets Marching Band leading the procession and the East Meadow High School faithful cheering all the way.

	

	The festivities continued on the East Meadow High School Field as community members filled the stands to root on the home team. Hard work, determination, and a dominant demonstration of football technique propelled the Jets to a 27-0 first-quarter lead over the Valley Stream Central High School Eagles. The Jets never looked back as they entered the locker room with a 47-7 halftime lead and finished the day with a 61-7 victory and a 3-0 record to start the season. Robbie Healy led the Jets with 234 all-purpose yards and four touchdowns. James D&amp;#39;Elia led the team in rushing with 82 yards and one touchdown. Quarterback Dylan Curry passed for 131 yards and two touchdowns.

	

	During the halftime show, the Jets Marching Band and Color Guard, the Varsity and Junior Varsity Cheerleaders, and the EMHS Rockettes entertained the audience with on-field demonstrations. The Homecoming Court was also introduced at halftime, as Daniel Matishek and Kelly Rice were crowned King and Queen, respectively.

	

	School spirit, community pride, and a Jets victory all contributed to a Homecoming 2011 to remember!

	
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3159</link>
      <pubDate>Wed, 28 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Fall Festival Filled with Fun Activities and Helpful Resources for Parents</title>
      <description>Meadowbrook Elementary School in the East Meadow Union Free School District held its annual Fall Festival on September 25, complete with a variety of fun games, crafts and other activities for parents and students to enjoy.

Pumpkin decorating, scarecrow stuffing, and sand art were just some of the stations organized for the fair, which was sponsored by the Meadowbrook PTA. New York Life representatives were also on hand, offering free child identification cards to parents. Interested parents had the opportunity to create identification cards containing their child&amp;rsquo;s vital information including photo, digitally-scanned fingerprints, and emergency contact information.

A very special thanks to W.T. Clarke High School&amp;rsquo;s Key Club members for volunteering to assist the younger children at the game tables.</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3153</link>
      <pubDate>Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>W. T.  Clarke Middle School Named 2011 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence</title>
      <description>
	Congratulations to W. T. Clarke Middle School in the East Meadow Union Free School District for being named a 2011 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. The Blue Ribbon Program honors schools whose students achieve at very high levels. The program is part of a larger Department of Education effort to identify and disseminate knowledge regarding the best school leadership and teaching practices.

	

	&amp;ldquo;At Clarke Middle School, we continually strive to help students realize their full potential. Our goal is to attend to the academic, social, and emotional needs of our youngsters,&amp;rdquo; said Principal Stacy Breslin, adding, &amp;ldquo;The East Meadow School District community is committed to fostering an environment that encourages students to take advantage of opportunities that will open doors to new ideas and create a desire to learn and explore. It is an honor to be recognized by the United States Department of Education as a National Blue Ribbon School.&amp;rdquo; 

	

	East Meadow Superintendent of Schools Louis R. DeAngelo stated, &amp;quot;We are very proud that our W.T. Clarke Middle School has been named by the U.S. Department of Education as a 2011 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. The entire learning community at Clarke Middle School, under the direction of Principal Stacy Breslin, clearly exemplifies the tenets of the Blue Ribbon Program and it is gratifying for me, as Superintendent of Schools, to have their efforts and accomplishments recognized by the Education Department&amp;#39;s National Blue Ribbon Program.&amp;quot;

	
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3047</link>
      <pubDate>Thu, 15 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>‘Green Cleaning Award’ for the Second Straight Year!</title>
      <description>The East Meadow Union Free School District has been recognized by the American School &amp;amp; University magazine with their &amp;ldquo;Grand Award for K-12 School Districts, Green Cleaning Award 2010.&amp;rdquo;

The district was featured prominently in the magazine&amp;rsquo;s December issue for its exemplary green cleaning program. Collaborating with the green cleaning committee, Director of Facilities and Operations Patrick Pizzo has led the district in its comprehensive approach to providing a clean and healthy learning environment without harming the natural environment.

The district has replaced chemical products with green-certified products and new and more effective cleaning procedures. Additionally, the district reduced its impact on the environment by eliminating the use of pesticides and only uses organic materials to treat district fields.
Congratulations!</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2825</link>
      <pubDate>Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>IT’S OFFICIAL!</title>
      <description>At the July 5, 2011 Board of Education reorganization meeting in the East Meadow Union Free School District, trustees Joseph Danenza and Corey Fanelli were sworn in for an additional three years, and Joan Franciotti took the oath as District Clerk.

Joseph Parisi is East Meadow&amp;rsquo;s newly elected President of the Board of Education, and Walter Skinner has been named Vice President.

Congratulations!
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2826</link>
      <pubDate>Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>New Student Registration</title>
      <description>Click on the link below to learn how to enroll a new student.

http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/for_parents/new_student_registration</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2827</link>
      <pubDate>Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Summer Reading Lists</title>
      <description>Click Here to learn more about Summer Reading</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2828</link>
      <pubDate>Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>East Meadow and W. Tresper Clarke High Schools Celebrate Commencement 2011</title>
      <description>Blue skies and ample sunshine were the order of the day as East Meadow and Clarke High Schools&amp;rsquo; graduating seniors gathered to celebrate the culmination of four years together in their respective schools and to begin the next stage on their journey through life.

East Meadow High School&amp;rsquo;s graduation highlights included a performance of &amp;ldquo;The Star Spangled Banner&amp;rdquo; and &amp;ldquo;Give Me Wings,&amp;rdquo; sung by members of the Senior Chorale, and signed by students in American Sign Language (ASL), a welcome by Principal Richard Howard, and greetings by Superintendent of Schools Louis R. DeAngelo and Board of Education President Brian O&amp;rsquo;Flaherty. In addition, Class President Jimmy Egan, Valedictorian Neha Sahni, and Salutatorian Domenika Swieboda each delivered moving speeches for their fellow graduates. Before conferring the diplomas, Mr. Howard delivered words of advice, concluding with, &amp;ldquo;To the graduating seniors, you are a unique group of people. Congratulations, Class of 2011!&amp;rdquo;

At Clarke High School&amp;rsquo;s commencement ceremony, Assistant Principal Richard Lagattolla delivered welcoming remarks and introductions, Valedictorian Jennifer Meade led the Salute to the Flag, which was also signed by ASL 5H students, Henry Morrow sang the national anthem, and the Senior Chorus performed the school&amp;rsquo;s alma mater. Valedictorian Jennifer Meade and Salutatorian Daniel Taylor each fondly recounted their years spent at Clarke High School and wished their fellow graduates congratulations. Principal Timothy Voels presented the senior class and concluded by stating, &amp;ldquo;Wherever you go, go with all of your heart,&amp;rdquo; adding a quote by Dr. Seuss, &amp;ldquo;Don&amp;rsquo;t cry because it&amp;rsquo;s over, smile because it happened.&amp;rdquo;

Both Mr. Howard and Mr. Voels honored outgoing Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Lynne Manouvrier with a special diploma and wished her well on her retirement. Superintendent of Schools Louis R. DeAngelo told the graduating classes at both schools, &amp;ldquo;The people who make the most difference in life are not the ones with the most money or the most awards. The people who make the most difference in life are the ones who care. Congratulations to each of you, your parents, family and friends.&amp;rdquo;

	
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2775</link>
      <pubDate>Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Summer Music Program - It's not too late to register!</title>
      <description>Click Here to Read the Brochure
Click Here for Online Registration</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2122</link>
      <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Child Activist, Author, and Star Bindi Irwin Visits McVey Elementary School</title>
      <description>
	Bindi Irwin, 12-year-old Australian activist, author of 16 &amp;ldquo;Bindi Wildlife Adventures&amp;rdquo; books, actress in the latest &amp;ldquo;Free Willy&amp;rdquo; movie, and daughter of the late documentarist and naturalist (and &amp;ldquo;Crocodile Hunter&amp;rdquo;) Steve Irwin, recently visited students at McVey Elementary School in the East Meadow Union Free School District.
	
	Bindi spoke to the McVey students about her adventures, schooling, and experience as an author, and encouraged them all to &amp;ldquo;go on your own adventure, whether it be a local park or visiting me down under!&amp;rdquo;
	
	The visit concluded with a question-and-answer session, and special gifts, such as DVDs, books, magazines, and stuffed animals, were given to the students who asked the questions.
	
	McVey Elementary School is the first and only elementary school where Bindi Irwin has made an appearance, which was made possible through a partnership between McVey&amp;#39;s PTA &amp;amp; Barnes &amp;amp; Noble.
	
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2460</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 16 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Students Participate in ASA Art Exhibition</title>
      <description>
	Students from each building in the East Meadow Union Free School District participated in the Art Supervisors Association (ASA) 2011 Nassau All-County Art Exhibition at Adelphi University.
	
	Special congratulations go to East Meadow High School senior Kaitlyn Firehock and Clarke High School senior Kathryna Gonzalez for receiving ASA 2011 Scholarships.
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2461</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 16 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Sensorship: An Interactive Experience</title>
      <description>
	A new exhibition, entitled &amp;ldquo;Sensorship,&amp;rdquo; was created in the School Store Gallery at W.T. Clarke High School in the East Meadow Union Free School District, featuring the artwork of seven students from the REACH (Recognizing and Encouraging Accomplishments in Children) program. The exhibition was developed, directed and coordinated by art teacher Shari Zimmerman and her son Drew.
	
	&amp;ldquo;Sensorship&amp;rdquo; is an interactive exhibit where one can recreate the sensory experiences of those that differ from the average viewer&amp;rsquo;s. The show included seven stations. Each station represented a different viewer sensation and showcased a different student&amp;rsquo;s artwork. The stations, which were constructed to be interactive, included art reflected in a mirror, kinetic mobiles hung from the ceiling, and an abstract that was enlarged and then minimized to be viewed through the use of a microscope (titled &amp;ldquo;Micro-Macro&amp;rdquo;). The artwork itself drew inspiration from sumi-e brush paintings of landscapes, with an intensity that focused on movement and saturated colors.
	
	A reception held on Monday, March 28, included family and friends of the artists, as well as faculty and administration. The show ran from March 28 through April 8 in the School Store Gallery at Clarke High School.
	
	Congratulations to the students who participated in this enlightened exhibition!
	
	Christopher Acevedo
	Nabeel Hasan
	Dominick Intrieri
	Drew Rubinstein
	Devin Schimerman
	Shelby Soodek
	Steven Weber
	
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2462</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 16 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>2011-2012 Budget Newsletters</title>
      <description>Steps To Learning Budget Newsletter - #1
Steps To Learning Budget Newsletter - #2</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2383</link>
      <pubDate>Tue, 03 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Students Participate in LISEF</title>
      <description>The East Meadow School District is pleased to announce that Shamoon Rizvi and Shujat Khan, both sophomores at East Meadow High School, finished in the top 30 percent of their category at the Long Island Science and Engineering Fair (LISEF), and were asked to return for round two with their project &amp;ldquo;The Effects of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Fibers on the Water Retention of Concrete.&amp;rdquo;

Additionally, Japbani Nanda, a junior at W.T. Clarke High School made it to round two of the LISEF, with her project &amp;ldquo;Adding Some Spice to the Study of Neurodegeneration.&amp;rdquo; 
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2130</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>East Meadow High School Athletes Garner Awards</title>
      <description>East Meadow High School is pleased to announce that senior track athlete Nicolas Torres was awarded the Peter N. Aquilone Leaders of Tomorrow award at the Hispanic Games on January 8. Sponsored by the United States Navy, Nick was recognized for his outstanding community service, academics, and athletic achievement. He was nominated for this honor by coaches Michael Ringhauser and James McGlynn. Congratulations, Nick!

In addition, East Meadow High School&amp;rsquo;s 4 X 55M shuttle hurdle team of Tom Milian, Tom Ford, Chris Garzia, and Kyle Bettex took second place at the New Balance High School Championships, held on March 5 at the Armory in Manhattan. Although runners up in this race, the team still holds the fastest time in the nation this year as well as the New York State record in the event. Great job!
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2131</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>EMHS Students Recognized for Exceptional Work in Science Research and Math</title>
      <description>East Meadow High School is pleased to announce that the following students have been recognized for their exceptional work in science research:

&amp;bull; Dominika Swieboda, a senior, received Honorable Mention (second place) at the Long Island Psychology Fair for her project &amp;ldquo;The Effect of Financial Status on a Woman&amp;rsquo;s Choice of Mate.&amp;rdquo;
&amp;bull; Shamoon Rizvi and Shujat Khan, both sophomores, finished in the top 30% of their category at the Long Island Science and Engineering Fair (LISEF). They were asked to return for round two with their project &amp;ldquo;The Effects of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Fibers on the Water Retention of Concrete.&amp;rdquo;
&amp;bull; Katrina Bamba and Nathan Siegelaub, both freshmen, were in the top 10% of the country and received Honorable Mention in the Toshiba Exploravision Competition for their project &amp;ldquo;The Personal Pilot: I Believe I Can Fly.&amp;rdquo;
&amp;bull; Robert Barracca and Joshua Varughese, both freshmen, were also in the top 10% of the country and received Honorable Mention in the Toshiba Exploravision Competition for their project &amp;ldquo;Solar Powered Computerized Advanced Revolutionary Filter (S.C.A.R.F.).&amp;rdquo;

Additionally, after participating in the Long Island Science Fair at Hofstra University on March 4, seven students have made it to the final round where they will compete against other finalists from Nassau and Suffolk Counties for a gold, silver, or bronze medal. The final round will be held at Hofstra University on April 29. Congratulations and best of luck in the next round to the following students: 

&amp;bull; Katrina Bamba and Nathan Seigelaub: &amp;ldquo;The Golden Ration in Nature&amp;rdquo;
&amp;bull; Rabihah Huda: &amp;ldquo;The Effect of Mathematics on the Perception of Optical Illusions&amp;rdquo;
&amp;bull; Neil Khosla and Sunil Reddy: &amp;ldquo;Taxi Cab Geometry&amp;rdquo;
&amp;bull; Daniel Cohen and Jefferey Juarez: &amp;ldquo;Mathematics of Cars&amp;rdquo;
Many thanks to the students&amp;rsquo; research teachers for all of their hard work and coaching of the students: Ginna Gabalski, Ken Nyer, and Sandra Polan.
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2134</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Clarke Middle School Student Aces LI Jewish World Spelling Bee</title>
      <description>Naman Shakrani, a sixth grader at W.T. Clarke Middle School in the East Meadow Union Free School District, won the Long Island Jewish World Spelling Bee on March 10 at Plainview-Old Bethpage Middle School. Twenty-one students from throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties competed for this prestigious title. Naman won in the tenth round when he spelled the word &amp;ldquo;noctograph,&amp;rdquo; which means a writing instrument used by the blind. Some of the difficult words he faced included pasteurize, arthroscopy, cataract, and perpend. He will now compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Maryland on June 1 and 2. 

The spelling bee process that earned Naman this honor began in December when W.T. Clarke Middle School held in-class competitions. In January, the school held its annual schoolwide Spelling Bee in which one contestant from each ELA class competed in the Little Theatre, January 7.

The competition was fierce; four students remained at the end and came back on January 10 for a tiebreaker. Sixth grader Naman won the title of Spelling Bee Champion for his school. He went on to compete in a written test on February 8 at Plainview-Old Bethpage Middle School, qualifying him to take part in the Long Island Jewish World Spelling Bee. 

Best of luck at the next round in Maryland, Naman!
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2135</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Woodland Middle School Students Compete in Al Kalfus LI Math Fair</title>
      <description>On March 4, 58 seventh and eighth-grade students of varying backgrounds in the Math Research Club at Woodland Middle School in the East Meadow Union Free School District participated in the first round of the Al Kalfus Long Island Math Fair at Hofstra University, coached by math teacher and advisor Eileen Lewner. 

Of the 58 students participating, 19 were selected to participate in the medal round on April 29. The second round of the competition is where the winners from the Nassau County competition will compete against the winners of the Suffolk County competition. 

Congratulations to all of the 58 participants, and best of luck to the following 19 competitors who will be moving on to the second round of the Long Island Math Fair at Hofstra University on April 29:

Yesha Desai, grade 7
Mario Froehlich, grade 7
Lily Lin, grade 7
Matthew McGee, grade 7
Neeha Reddy, grade 7
Alaina Ciccone, grade 8
Christopher DelGado, grade 8
Gizem Dursuk, grade 8
Christian Escheverry, grade 8
Sebastian Escheverry, grade 8
Michelle Furman, grade 8
Michael Leone, grade 8
Raeqa Mahmud, grade 8
Nicole Santa Cruz, grade 8
Anusha Syed, grade 8
Nicole Hartcorn, grade 8
Michaela Osbern, grade 8
Kaylie Rose, grade 8
Kaleigh Spector, grade 8
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2136</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Clarke DECA Members Capture Awards at State Career Conference</title>
      <description>The district is pleased to announce that he following W. T. Clarke High School DECA chapter members won awards at the 2011 Annual New York-DECA State Career Conference, held at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center, March 9-11:

Jason Dunleavy, Public Speaking &amp;ndash; Prepared, Top 10 Finalist in New York State 
Kelly Schneider, Buying &amp;amp; Merchandising Team Decision Making, Top 10 Finalist &amp;ndash; Role Play and Overall Score
Amanda Seelinger, Buying &amp;amp; Merchandising Team Decision Making, Top 10 Finalist &amp;ndash; Role Play and Overall Score
Daniel Wang, Principles of Finance, Top 10 Finalist &amp;ndash; Interview, Test Score, and Overall Score
Arjan Singh, Fashion Merchandising Promotion Plan, First Place in New York State, Top 10 Finalist &amp;ndash; Test Score, Interview, and Overall Score, Elected 2011-2012 New York State DECA Parliamentarian

These students represented W. T. Clarke High School proudly and altogether won 12 New York State medals and a first-place New York State trophy. Arjan Singh will be attending and competing in the DECA International Career Conference in Orlando, Florida, which will be held April 30 through May 3, 2011. Students from all over the United States, Guam, Hawaii and Germany will be competing in their respective categories. 

Additionally, the following W.T. Clarke High School students attended and competed at the DECA 2011 New York State Career Conference with their advisor Lucretia Piper:   

Haley Carey &amp;ndash; Advertising Campaign Event
Jason Dunleavy &amp;ndash; Public Speaking Prepared
Jamie Gelberg &amp;ndash; Quick Service Restaurant Management
Hani Javed &amp;ndash; Principles of Marketing
Alexis Mello &amp;ndash; Advertising Campaign Event
Jennifer Neidle &amp;ndash; Advertising Campaign Event
Tyler Ranieri &amp;ndash; Principles of Business Management &amp;amp; Administration 
Areeba Rasool &amp;ndash; Free Enterprise Economics On-Site
Kelly Schneider &amp;ndash; Buying &amp;amp; Merchandising Team Decision Making
Amanda Seelinger &amp;ndash; Buying &amp;amp; Merchandising Team Decision Making
Yash Shah &amp;ndash; Financial Services Management Team Decision Making
Siddesh Ramesh &amp;ndash; Financial Services Management Team Decision Making
Arjan Singh &amp;ndash; Fashion Merchandising Promotion Plan
Apeksha Tayal &amp;ndash; Quick Service Restaurant Management
Daniel Wang &amp;ndash; Principles of Finance
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2137</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Clarke High School Students Named Finalists in Long Island Math Fair</title>
      <description>As part of their honors math courses, students at Clarke High School in the East Meadow Union Free School District were required to write a math research paper. The top papers were then selected to compete at the Long Island Math Fair, held March 4 at Hofstra University, where competitors each gave a 15-minute presentation of their research. 

Five students have made it to the final round, where they will compete against other finalists from all over Long Island for a gold, silver, or bronze medal. The final round will be at Hofstra University on Friday, April 29.

Congratulations and best of luck on the final round to the following students: Slah Khan (ninth grade), Ganesh Ravichandran (ninth grade), Siddesh Ramesh (ninth grade), Daniiel Wang (tenth grade), and Yash Shah (ninth grade).
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2138</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Bowling Green News</title>
      <description>Mrs. Bertolini and Mrs. Miller worked collaboratively with their second grade students to write personal narratives. The children learned how to write a creative story about a personal experience. They brainstormed a list of ideas based on their lives and chose one that they thought a reader would find interesting. Rough drafts were created; students reread their drafts and conferenced with other children or an adult. During the revision stage, they learned to expand their ideas, include descriptive details, incorporate their feelings, and add personal thoughts to their stories. After working for several sessions, a final draft was completed. The children enjoyed celebrating their &amp;ldquo;published&amp;rdquo; stories by sharing their work at an Authors&amp;rsquo; Tea. Ms. Ciarametaro and Mr. Lukasik were our special guests. The children were very proud of their work and excited to read their personal narratives aloud. Great job boys and girls!</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1985</link>
      <pubDate>Thu, 03 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Senior Advances to Finalist in National Achievement Scholarship Program</title>
      <description>Norman Mathews, a senior at W.T. Clarke High School, has advanced to Finalist status in the National Achievement Scholarship Program. Named a Semifinalist in the fall of 2010, Norman has now advanced to Finalist standing so he can be considered for an Achievement Scholarship award to be offered in 2011.
The National Achievement Scholarship Program is an academic competition established in 1964 to provided recognition for outstanding Black American high school students.
Approximately 1,600 high-scoring participants in each year&amp;rsquo;s National Achievement Scholarship Program are designated Semifinalists. To ensure that academically talented Black American students throughout the nation are included in the pool, Semifinalists are named on a regional representation basis. The highest-scoring program participants in the states constitute each region.
Congratulations to Norman and best of luck in the Finalist round of the program!
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1826</link>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title>Staff Development Initiatives Continue at Barnum Woods</title>
      <description>In an effort to provide students with a learning environment that embraces &amp;ldquo;Best Instructional Practices&amp;rdquo; relative to the English Language Arts (ELA) curriculum, the professional faculty members at Barnum Woods Elementary School continue their journey in staff development initiatives with a Balanced Literacy Committee. 

Collaborating with an AUSSIE consultant, teachers have been researching the most effective techniques and strategies that highlight the essential components of an effective Balanced Literacy philosophy, such as:

&amp;bull; Independent Reading  
&amp;bull; Guided Reading
&amp;bull; Shared Reading
&amp;bull; Read-Aloud/ Modeled Reading
&amp;bull; Language Experience
&amp;bull; Spelling and Word Study
&amp;bull; Independent Writing
&amp;bull; Shared/ Interactive Writing
&amp;bull; Modeled Writing

Topics of discussion included ELA past practices, future goals, and the review of professional articles. The faculty at Barnum Woods has demonstrated much enthusiasm in participating in this unique &amp;ldquo;professional learning community.&amp;rdquo;
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1827</link>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Outstanding Physical Education Students Recognized at East Meadow High School</title>
      <description>The district is pleased to announce that the Nassau Zone of the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance has recognized East Meadow High School seniors Jessica Widmann and Thomas Ford as 2010-2011 Outstanding Physical Education students. 

The physical education staff at East Meadow High School recommended these students for their leadership, character, citizenship, and commitment to exhibiting a physically active lifestyle.

Congratulations, Jessica and Thomas!
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1828</link>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Clarke Middle School Teachers Awarded NEFCU Grant</title>
      <description>The Nassau Educators Federal Credit Union (NEFCU) selected Marge Sweeny and Wendy Wansor, advisors of the Student Government Club at Clarke Middle School in the East Meadow Union Free School District, as grant recipients. NEFCU&amp;rsquo;s Teacher Grant program offers financial assistance to teachers wishing to supplement their regular curriculum with special projects. 

The $250 grant will be used by the Student Government to create welcome kits for the new sixth graders entering Clarke Middle School in September. The project is called &amp;ldquo;Easing the Transition into Middle School with Welcome Kits for the Class of 2014. &amp;ldquo; 

The entire school community of students, teachers, administrators, secretaries, custodians, cafeteria staff, and parents will be invited to contribute helpful hints and pearls of wisdom to a school how-to guide as part of the Middle School Survival Kit. Clarke Middle School is hoping that the manuals and kits will make the incoming class feel welcome and excited about entering middle school. The welcome kits will be presented to each new sixth grader on the first day of school in September.
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1829</link>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Parkway Institutes Team Approach to Administration of DIBELS</title>
      <description>Students in kindergarten and first grade at Parkway Elementary School in the East Meadow Union Free School District are in the process of the second round of taking the DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) benchmark assessment test.

DIBELS, an early intervention screening program, is administered three times a year -- in September, January, and June. It allows teachers to monitor the progress of students&amp;rsquo; early literacy development, thereby identifying students in need of additional support so that they can modify teaching strategies or differentiate instruction. 

The DIBELS measures are specifically designed to assess three of the &amp;ldquo;Five Big Ideas&amp;rdquo; of early literacy: phonological awareness, alphabetic principle, and fluency with connected text. 

Through a team approach by intervention, ESL, reading, and classroom teachers, data is taken and graphed. The teachers then review the data as a team to determine how a student&amp;rsquo;s reading development is progressing, and whether that student is on the path to becoming a proficient and fluent reader or is in need of intervention.
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1830</link>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
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      <title>Woodland Middle School Presents Social Emotional Literacy Activities to the Board of Education </title>
      <description>At the monthly Board of Education meeting on January 20, a curriculum presentation was given by faculty members and students from Woodland Middle School. The presentation was a snap shot of the various Social Emotional Literacy (SEL) activities that take place at the school. 

Students and faculty described a number of the activities that the students partake on a regular basis. The impetus for the SEL activities comes from research that indicates students learn better in an environment in which they are safe and nurtured. As a result, lessons have been designed across all curriculum areas to implement these strategies. 

The activities which were highlighted included Rachel&amp;rsquo;s Challenge &amp;ldquo;Mix It Up Day,&amp;rdquo; The Ryan Halligan Story, and Pay It Forward, to name just a few. The presentation concluded with a video depicting the presentations, assemblies and student reflections. The faculty participants were Assistant Principal Patricia Graham, sixth-grade teachers Claire Green and Allison Fullam, and social worker Laura Silvestri. The students who took part were Taylor Anthony, Victoria Bova, Gina Bova, Emily Dessel, Max Hechtman, and Joe Pesce. 
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1831</link>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>East Meadow High School Student Receives Certificate of Excellence</title>
      <description>The district is pleased to announce that Peter Natale, a junior at East Meadow High School, was selected Student of the Month at the Gerald R. Claps Career &amp;amp; Technical Center for December 2010.

Peter is enrolled in the Architectural Drafting Program at East Meadow High School and was honored with a Certificate of Excellence at the Career &amp;amp; Technical Center. In class, he is currently learning how to create and modify floor plans, as well as drafting for carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and landscape design. 

Congratulations to Peter!
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1832</link>
      <pubDate>Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>High School Sophomore Selected as HOBY Ambassador</title>
      <description>Carly Salzman, a sophomore at East Meadow High School, has been selected as this year&amp;rsquo;s Hugh O&amp;rsquo;Brian Youth (HOBY) Leadership Ambassador. She will participate with other teens at the HOBY Leadership Conference this spring. This conference brings tomorrow&amp;rsquo;s leaders together with today&amp;rsquo;s recognized pioneers in business, government, education, and other professions to discuss present and future issues. 

Carly was chosen through a rigorous process that included the involvement of faculty, students, and administrators. She impressed the panel with her warmth, sincerity, and contagious smile. Her concern for others was apparent. 

Carly is a very conscientious student who is also involved in various extracurricular activities that she enjoys and values. She is captain of the Junior Varsity Cheerleading Team, is on the Varsity Math Team, and is a member of EPIC (Encouraging Pride in Israeli Culture). Carly is also quite the musician, playing the oboe and the English horn in the pit orchestra, the alto saxophone in the Jazz Band, and the soprano saxophone in the Sax Quartet. 

Inspired by some wonderful teachers in her life, Carly plans to be an elementary school teacher. To that end, she currently teaches Hebrew school and volunteers in her temple&amp;rsquo;s annual performances. 

Carly&amp;rsquo;s outgoing personality and unpretentious charm make her a natural leader. East Meadow High School is proud to be represented by such a mature, intelligent, and personable young woman.
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1766</link>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Pre-K and Kindergarten Registration</title>
      <description>Pre-K Registration Flyer - Click Here 
Kindergarten Registration Flyer - Click Here  
New Student Registration Documents - Click Here</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1747</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Board of Education Meeting -  February 3, 2011</title>
      <description>Click Here for More Information</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1754</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Clarke Middle School Launches “RAMS LIVE”</title>
      <description>Clarke Middle School in the East Meadow Union Free School District recently created a news studio where students air their weekly video news magazine. The show, called &amp;ldquo;Rams Live,&amp;rdquo; airs every Friday during Advisory. Each edition is between six to eight minutes long and touches on what's happening at Clarke, in the community, and in the world at large. Since launching in January 2010, they have covered a wide range of stories including field trips, school sporting events, philanthropic efforts, musical concerts, the Long Island Math Fair and the Long Island Science Congress, Halloween, school elections, bake sales, and much more. 

The show provides a vehicle for teachers to showcase the innovative lessons that are going on in the classroom. Recently, for example, segments included an Archaeology Dig (sixth-grade social studies) and Musical Twister (eighth-grade general music). They have also saluted Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on his birthday, brought attention to the earthquake crisis in Haiti and raised money as a result, and covered the 2010 midterm elections, focusing on New York races. However subtly, they strive to educate students about the larger world around them. Every show ends with a birthday salute where students names and birthdays are listed, mixing them in with photos of famous people also born during that week. Additionally, because Clarke Middle School houses a deaf population, portions of the show are also signed. 

Since its inception, it is estimated that well over 300 students have appeared on Rams Live in one way or another. The show is produced each week by technology teacher Elliot Oppenheim and English teacher Cindy Dale. Mr. Oppenheim and Ms. Dale also run the Multimedia Club. In addition to appearing on camera, many students are involved in the editing process, producing entire segments on their own for the show. It is Clarke&amp;rsquo;s goal to foster an appreciation of the news media in their students and to realize that, when it comes to broadcast journalism, diverse talents are needed -- from writing the news and delivering it, to editing, set design, directing and producing. Finally, &amp;ldquo;Rams Live&amp;rdquo; allows the school to connect with students in positive ways...and that is the ultimate goal!
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1644</link>
      <pubDate>Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Woodland Hosts Workshop Led By Renowned Educator Dr. Nancy Doda</title>
      <description>On December 15, Woodland Middle School hosted a workshop entitled &amp;ldquo;Circle of Power and Respect,&amp;rdquo; led by renowned middle school educator, Dr. Nancy Doda. This was the second in a series of five workshops that are being held at Woodland.

Dr. Doda completed her Masters and Ph.D. at the University of Florida, specializing in Middle School Teacher Education. At the workshop, she presented best instructional strategies and teaching practices, and focused on the areas of interdisciplinary learning, teaming, and the importance of Social Emotional Literacy (SEL) at the middle school level. 

Participants in the workshop were part of the Nassau County Middle Level Collegial Workshop. Schools taking part in the workshop included Clarke Middle School, Long Beach Middle School, Sewanhaka Junior High School, and Woodland Middle School. The teams were comprised of teachers and administrators. In addition, 12 Woodland students, four from each grade level, participated in several character education activities that fostered social, communication, team building, and other skills, facilitated by Dr. Doda.
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1594</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 03 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>High School Seniors Selected as Semifinalists in the 2010-2011 Coca Cola Scholars Program</title>
      <description>The district is pleased to announce that Christina Principato of Clarke High School and Colleen Wilkowski of East Meadow High School have been selected as Semifinalists in the 2010-2011 Coca Cola Scholars Program. This honor is a result of their outstanding leadership, academic achievements, and dedication to the community.
Christina and Colleen are eligible to become Finalists, with a chance to receive between $10,000 and $20,000 in awards. Finalists will be announced in February, 2011.
In addition, Colleen has been named among a select group of high school seniors throughout the country to continue in the 2011 competition for a corporate-sponsored Special Scholarship, administered by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). This past fall, she was named a Commended Student in the 2011 National Merit Scholarship Program based on her outstanding PSAT results.
Congratulations to Christina and Colleen!</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2126</link>
      <pubDate>Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title>Clarke High School Senior Selected as First Place Winner in the Global Sikh Forum Senior Essay Contest</title>
      <description>The district is pleased to announce that Jared Atchison, a senior at W.T. Clarke High School, has been selected as the first place winner in the Global Sikh Forum Essay Contest, sponsored by the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration Committee of Nassau County, Inc.

Jared&amp;rsquo;s essay, which won him a scholarship, was about the impact Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. has had on his life. This is the first time a Clarke High School student has placed in this contest.

Congratulations to Jared!
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2127</link>
      <pubDate>Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title>East Meadow Artwork Displayed at Capitol Building</title>
      <description>The district is pleased to announce that two East Meadow High School students, Amanda Giordano and Amanda Goodman, will have their artwork displayed in the Legislative &amp;ldquo;Well&amp;rdquo; of the Capitol Building in Albany from February 28 through March 4, 2011. 

An opening reception will be held on March 2 from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m. The Annual Legislative Student Art Exhibition is cosponsored by the New York State Alliance for the Arts in Education (NYSSAE) and features over 200 entries from school districts across New York State. 

The title of Amanda Giordano&amp;rsquo;s artwork is &amp;ldquo;Here&amp;rsquo;s to the Past,&amp;rdquo; and Amanda Goodman&amp;rsquo;s artwork is called &amp;ldquo;Big City Dreams.&amp;rdquo; Both works of art are digital photography.

Congratulations to Amanda Giordano and Amanda Goodman!
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2128</link>
      <pubDate>Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Clarke High School’s JANY Business Plan Competition Students Make the Cover of NASDAQ’s Annual Report</title>
      <description>For the past two years, students in Joe Pavia's business classes at W. T. Clarke High School have been encouraged to participate in the Junior Achievement of New York (JANY) Business Plan Competition (BPC). In accordance with the guidelines established by JANY, teams of three or four students develop an original business concept, conduct research, create a marketing plan, and present such to a panel of corporate executives. To say that Mr. Pavia's students have met with success would be to minimize their accomplishments.
Prior to 2009, no Long Island high school had entered the competition, which is open to schools throughout New York. With the support of corporate sponsor, Fed Ex, the students at Clarke High School took the competition by storm. Following a &amp;quot;regional&amp;quot; competition at Clarke, students from Mr. Pavia's class represented Long Island in the 2009 JANY Business Plan Competition Finals at Columbia University. The team walked away with the top prize, including $2,000 and an iPhone for each for the four-team members. In 2010, the Clarke High School team of Samantha Difilippi, Samantha Wendorf, and Kareema Roushdy set out to match the achievement of their peers from 2009. The trio did not disappoint, winning the JANY Competition with their original concept, Infinity Hosiery. The team competed in the NYS Finals at Columbia University, earning top honors and a cash prize of $3,000 and an iPhone for each member of the team. In addition, the students and Mr. Pavia were invited to ring the closing bell at NASDAQ on Friday, June 4, 2010.
Last week, Junior Achievement of New York announced that the 2010 winning team from W. T. Clarke High School would adorn the cover of their annual report. This is a tremendous honor and tribute to the hard work and effort of the students and Mr. Pavia.
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1554</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 20 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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    <item>
      <title>A Young Artist Exhibition</title>
      <description>On November 30, the East Meadow Union Free School District held their Young Artist Exhibition at the Leon J. Campo Salisbury Center, with more than 140 entrants.

The exhibit featured artwork from students in kindergarten through twelfth grade, representing all schools in the district. Among some of the featured artwork were photography, papier-m&amp;acirc;ch&amp;eacute;, pencil drawings, pastels, watercolors, acrylics, ceramic/clay sculpture, Monomagic sculpture, fashion design, and jewelry. 

Clarke High School&amp;rsquo;s Tri-M Music Honor Society, under the direction of Chairperson of Music and Tri-M advisor Kevin Scully, provided musical entertainment throughout the event.

Many thanks to the tireless efforts of Abby Behr, Director of Music and Art, and Heather Anastasio, Art Chairperson, for another successful exhibition.
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1563</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 20 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Jazz Ensemble Performs at the NYSSMA Winter Conference</title>
      <description>The East Meadow High School Jazz Ensemble performed at the New York State School Music Association&amp;rsquo;s Winter Conference in Rochester on Friday, December 3rd. Under the direction of Stephen Engle, the Jazz Ensemble was one of eight ensembles from across the state of New York selected for this honor. It is the second time in five years that the Jazz Ensemble performed at the NYSSMA Winter Conference. Their performance was truly outstanding and enjoyed by music educators and parents in attendance.
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1486</link>
      <pubDate>Tue, 07 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>CHS Valedictorians &amp; Salutatorians for the Class of 2011</title>
      <description>The East Meadow Union Free School District is pleased to announce the selection of Valedictorian Neha Sahni and Salutatorian Dominika Swieboda from East Meadow High School, and Valedictorian Jennifer Meade and Salutatorian Daniel Taylor from W. Tresper Clarke High School, for the Class of 2011.

Neha Sahni is an active member of the World Hunger Action Club, Pre-Med Club, and A World of Difference Club. She is also a Varsity Tennis player, a writer for the Jet Gazette school newspaper, and a member of the school&amp;rsquo;s Math Team, National Honor Society, and Spanish Honor Society. Neha was honored as the recipient of the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Math and Science Award for outstanding achievement in the fields of math and science. She was also the recipient of the Humanitarian Award for pursuing a career in medicine after graduating high school.

Dominika Swieboda is an exceptional student in both math and science. She is the recipient of the University of Rochester Bausch and Lomb Honorary Science Award for outstanding achievement in science as well as the RIT Medal for strong community involvement, exemplary academic performance, and a great interest and ability in computing. Dominika&amp;rsquo;s kindness, generosity, humility, and huge sense of responsibility make her an extraordinary young woman. 

Jennifer Meade is a conscientious, hard working, determined, and compassionate leader. She serves as the student body vice president and is a member of the National Honor Society, as well as the Science, English, Spanish, and Business Honor Societies. Jennifer is also a member of the Nassau County Champion Mock Trial Team, the Key Club, Environmental Club, Peer Mentoring, Book Club, SADD, and Friends of Rachel Club. In addition, she is the president of the Red Cross Club.

Daniel Taylor is an exceptional individual who has demonstrated a strong commitment to his academic development and the community at-large. He is a member of the National Honor Society, as well as the English, Spanish, and Science Honor Societies. Daniel is also involved in the Key Club, Red Cross, and is captain of the Varsity Tennis Team. 

Congratulations to these outstanding students!
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1460</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 05 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Teachers from Guatemala Visit Bowling Green </title>
      <description>On November 3, Bowling Green Elementary School in the East Meadow Union Free School District was visited by three teachers from Guatemala. The visit was part of a partnership with the Guatemalan Literacy Project through the Nassau Reading Council (NRC), and was coordinated by reading teacher Ellen Miller, a member of NRC. 

The goal of the visit was for the Guatemalan teachers to learn teaching techniques by observing and taking notes, and then bring this newfound knowledge to their schools in Guatemala to improve the education and quality of life of their students. 

During their visit, teachers Gladys Alicia Fuentes Guevara, Silvia Giovanna Choc Cruz, and Maria Eugenia Escobar Lemur visited Darlene O&amp;rsquo;Hearon&amp;rsquo;s fourth-grade class and watched as the students reviewed a lesson prior to a math test. The next day they were off to a new location in Nassau County. 
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1461</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 05 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Meadowbrook Elementary School Honors Veterans</title>
      <description>Meadowbrook Elementary School in the East Meadow Union Free School District held their 13th Annual Veterans Day Display as a museum-like setup in the school&amp;rsquo;s gymnasium. Upon entering, students were each handed a miniature American flag. 

There were several veterans from the Salisbury Senior Center in East Meadow and VFW Post 2736. The veterans displayed their own personal artifacts from various past wars, which included hats, helmets, jackets, facemasks, medals, photos, maps, weapons, and other war memorabilia.

This event was coordinated by special education teaching assistant Donna Derry. 
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1462</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 05 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>East Meadow High School Students Attend The Believe Symposium</title>
      <description>On Monday, November 15, 2010, East Meadow High School sent 22 students to The Believe Symposium at the Hyatt Regency in Hauppauge, New York. This event was dedicated to inspiring and motivating young adults through keynote speakers, interactive breakout workshops, and multiple networking opportunities. 

The students were presented the opportunity to connect with, ask questions of, learn from, and be inspired by leaders who have surmounted considerable professional and personal challenges to achieve their success, and who have made a difference right here on Long Island. Additionally, the students gained insight from a variety of philanthropic leaders across Long Island regarding the value of giving to the communities that sustain us all.

L.I. Works Coalition: A Division of Goodwill Industries sponsored this event.
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1463</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 05 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>EMHS Valedictorians &amp; Salutatorians for the Class of 2011</title>
      <description>The East Meadow Union Free School District is pleased to announce the  selection of Valedictorian Neha Sahni and Salutatorian Dominika  Swieboda from East Meadow High School, and Valedictorian Jennifer Meade  and Salutatorian Daniel Taylor from W. Tresper Clarke High School, for  the Class of 2011.

Neha Sahni is an active member of the World Hunger Action Club, Pre-Med  Club, and A World of Difference Club. She is also a Varsity Tennis  player, a writer for the Jet Gazette school newspaper, and a member of  the school&amp;rsquo;s Math Team, National Honor Society, and Spanish Honor  Society. Neha was honored as the recipient of the Rensselaer Polytechnic  Institute Math and Science Award for outstanding achievement in the  fields of math and science. She was also the recipient of the  Humanitarian Award for pursuing a career in medicine after graduating  high school.

Dominika Swieboda is an exceptional student in both math and science.  She is the recipient of the University of Rochester Bausch and Lomb  Honorary Science Award for outstanding achievement in science as well as  the RIT Medal for strong community involvement, exemplary academic  performance, and a great interest and ability in computing. Dominika&amp;rsquo;s  kindness, generosity, humility, and huge sense of responsibility make  her an extraordinary young woman. 

Jennifer Meade is a conscientious, hard working, determined, and  compassionate leader. She serves as the student body vice president and  is a member of the National Honor Society, as well as the Science,  English, Spanish, and Business Honor Societies. Jennifer is also a  member of the Nassau County Champion Mock Trial Team, the Key Club,  Environmental Club, Peer Mentoring, Book Club, SADD, and Friends of  Rachel Club. In addition, she is the president of the Red Cross Club.

Daniel Taylor is an exceptional individual who has demonstrated a strong  commitment to his academic development and the community at-large. He  is a member of the National Honor Society, as well as the English,  Spanish, and Science Honor Societies. Daniel is also involved in the Key  Club, Red Cross, and is captain of the Varsity Tennis Team. 

Congratulations to these outstanding students!
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1464</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 05 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>East Meadow’s Terrific Kids</title>
      <description>At the November 18, 2010 Board of Education Meeting, select students at Woodland and W. Tresper Clarke Middle Schools in the East Meadow Union Free School District were recognized for their positive attitude, good character, and responsible citizenship for the months of September, October, and November. Each of the district&amp;rsquo;s Terrific Kids was presented with a certificate of achievement and a bumper sticker, sponsored by the East Meadow Kiwanis, and presented by the Board of Education and Superintendent of Schools Louis R. DeAngelo.
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1465</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 05 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Clarke Middle School Builders Club Named a Distinguished Club in Charter Year</title>
      <description>Kiwanis International has recognized the Builders Club at W. T. Clarke Middle School in the East Meadow Union Free School District as a 2009-2010 Distinguished Club. Builders Club is community service club for Middle School students sponsored by Kiwanis International. The East Meadow Kiwanis Club proudly sponsors the Clarke Builders Club. 

This international honor recognizes the Clarke Builders Club for its leadership, club administration, fundraising efforts and community service projects. The significance of this prestigious recognition is magnified when combined with the fact that the Clarke Builders Club was officially chartered on November 16, 2009.

Despite having less than half the service year to earn the necessary points in the categories considered by Kiwanis International, Clarke surpassed the standard of an &amp;ldquo;Honor Club&amp;rdquo; and reached the highest level of &amp;ldquo;Distinguished Club.&amp;rdquo; Also noteworthy is that Clarke Builders Club earned this recognition in its first, or &amp;ldquo;charter&amp;rdquo; year.

Critical to this success was the leadership of Charter President Marissa Flaherty, who was also singled out by Kiwanis International to receive the Foundation&amp;rsquo;s Builders Club Leadership Award. In addition, the guidance provided by advisors Jerry Ferrara and Rosa Principato, as well as the dedication of club officers and members, were instrumental.

Given their success of 2009-2010, the community can expect even greater achievement and service projects from the Clarke Builders Club this year. 
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1292</link>
      <pubDate>Mon, 25 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>McVey Kicks Off Red Ribbon Week With “World of Rope Jumping”</title>
      <description>Students at McVey Elementary School in the East Meadow Union Free School District were primed for a weeklong series of events kicking off Red Ribbon Week with a special assembly. Professional athlete, role model, entertainer, and educator, Mark Rothstein of World of Rope Jumping, which is a movement-based wellness and character education program, challenged students to engage in cardiovascular fitness, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle. 

Mr. Rothstein&amp;rsquo;s interactive presentation reinforced character building elements such as kindness, respect, trying one&amp;rsquo;s best, positive choices, drug-free living, politeness, teamwork, and honesty through the sport of rope jumping, a favorite among many students at the elementary school level.

Students volunteered for various types of rope jumping challenges, which included a short jump rope and a five-pound jump rope, while their fellow schoolmates cheered them on. 
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1291</link>
      <pubDate>Sun, 24 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>National Marine Art Contest</title>
      <description>Clarke Middle Schooler Named Winner of National Marine Art Contest


The East Meadow Union Free School District is pleased to announce that Bailey McNamara, a sixth-grade student at W.T. Clarke Middle School, has been named the grand prizewinner of a national art contest that was held at the end of the 2009-2010 school year. The contest, which focused on the marine environment challenged students across North America to create a poster around the theme &amp;ldquo;Mariners Help Save Our Seas.&amp;rdquo;

The winning poster, created by Bailey while a fifth grader at Bowling Green Elementary School, will be distributed to global maritime industry outlets, including the International Maritime Organization, an agency of the United Nations and the regulatory body for the industry. 

The art contest was open to students aged five to thirteen in schools and at Immersion Learning sites in the United States, Canada and Mexico, as well as Boys &amp;amp; Girls Clubs and other after-school groups. Immersion Learning is a dynamic, hands-on science education program that provides schools and informal learning organizations with the opportunity to host interactive science experiences for students in grades four through eight. 

Bailey&amp;rsquo;s poster concentrated on special fishing nets called &amp;ldquo;turtle excluder devices&amp;rdquo; (TEDs), which mariners use to ensure that large marine animals don&amp;rsquo;t become trapped. A dolphin and a sea turtle are illustrated in Bailey&amp;rsquo;s pencil and marker drawing, with information on TEDs neighboring the animals.

As her grand prize package, Bailey received a Mystic Aquarium Animal Adoption Kit, a 16-inch plush beluga whale, a signed book from famed oceanographer Dr. Robert Ballard, and a one-year membership for her and her family to Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut. She also received a signed photo of Dr. Ballard and a letter of appreciation.
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1266</link>
      <pubDate>Wed, 20 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Raising Funds for School Supplies</title>
      <description>For three years, the staff at Woodland Middle School in the East Meadow Union Free School District has collected funds and purchased everything from backpacks to pencils for students whose families simply cannot meet the rising costs of school supplies. Collecting school supplies for students in need has become a tradition at Woodland. 

Through the fundraising efforts of school librarian Leslie Rausch, foreign language teacher Patricia Johnson, and one very special eighth grader, Anusha Syed, this generous middle school has raised nearly $3,000 in school supplies for their school store. Nearly 100 students will be supplied with backpacks, notebooks, crayons, pens, glue, rulers, protractors, loose-leaf paper, graph paper, folders, and a feeling of self-worth and positive self-esteem.

Not only has this effort provided the necessary school supplies to many students, but it also encouraged Anusha to do her own fundraising this past summer. She raised $2,500 through door-to-door donations, and with the help of family and friends, procured many needed items for the school store. 

To commemorate this occasion, Anusha was joined by her family, teachers, and Principal James Lethbridge, and was recognized for her efforts by Town of Hempstead Supervisor Kate Murray and Town Councilman Gary Hudes. 
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1267</link>
      <pubDate>Wed, 20 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Students Selected to Perform in the All-State Music Conference</title>
      <description>The East Meadow Union Free School District is pleased to announce the following students who will be performing in All-State Music Performing Ensembles at this year's NYSSMA Winter Conference to be held in Rochester from December 2 through 5, 2010:

W. Tresper Clarke High School
Wei-Ming Koh, Clarinet, Symphonic Band
Eric Ratner, Trombone, Instrumental Jazz Ensemble

East Meadow High School
Jordan Fried, Bass Trombone, Instrumental Jazz Ensemble
Andrew Hochler, Trumpet, Wind Ensemble
Emily Ilson, Soprano, Women's or Mixed Chorus
Marc Kabigting, Clarinet, Symphonic Band
Samuel Pollenz, Trumpet, Instrumental Jazz Ensemble
Aya Terki, Cello, Symphony Orchestra

The following three students, who will be performing with the All-State Jazz Ensemble, were also selected for the following ensembles:

W. Tresper Clarke High School
Eric Ratner, Symphony Orchestra

East Meadow High School
Jordan Fried, Symphonic Band
Samuel Pollenz, Wind Ensemble

The following students were selected as Alternates for the All-State Performing Ensembles and will automatically selected to perform in All-County in January:

W. Tresper Clarke High School
Kevin Clements, Tenor Saxophone
Gouri Sadananda, Piccolo
Sarah Shaiman, Jazz Soprano Voice
Nikhil Thomas, Jazz Bass Voice

East Meadow High School
Christopher Garzia, Flute
Andrew Hochler, Jazz Trumpet
Simon Lee, Percussion
Stephan Stanzione, Percussion

In addition, Anson Wang of East Meadow High School was selected as an Alternate in the 2010 Piano Showcase, taking place at the NYSSMA Winter Conference.
More than 8,000 students from across New York State audition for this honor each year at NYSSMA&amp;rsquo;s annual Spring Evaluation Festival. The competition demands the highest level of performance from each participant. &amp;ldquo;We are most proud of their accomplishments and of their outstanding teachers,&amp;rdquo; stated Director of Music and Art Abby Behr.
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1260</link>
      <pubDate>Tue, 19 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>Journeys into American Indian Territory</title>
      <description>On September 28, fourth-grade students at Bowling Green Elementary School in the East Meadow Union Free School District held an in-house field trip presented by instructors Maddi Cheers and Uaian Bruno from &amp;ldquo;Journeys into American Indian Territory.&amp;rdquo;
&amp;ldquo;Journeys into American Indian Territory&amp;rdquo; is an all-day curriculum-based moving museum geared specifically to fourth-grade students. The presentation began with an introductory film about what life was like for the Native Americans after the European settlers arrived, and continued with workshops on traditional games and stories, music and dance, building a wigwam, and lifestyles and history of the native peoples of the Eastern Woodlands. 
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1261</link>
      <pubDate>Tue, 19 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>East Meadow High School Announces 2011 National Merit Commended Students </title>
      <description>The East Meadow Union Free School District is pleased to announce that students Evan Asher, Jonathon Lubrano, Kathryn Mendoza, and Colleen Wilkowski from East Meadow High School have been named Commended Students in the 2011 National Merit Scholarship Program based on their outstanding PSAT results. 

About 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Commended Students placed among the top five percent of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2011 competition.

Congratulations Evan, Jonathon, Kathryn, and Colleen!
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1262</link>
      <pubDate>Tue, 19 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title>National Achievement Scholarship Program</title>
      <description>
Clarke High School Student Named Finalist in the National Achievement Scholarship Program
The East Meadow Union Free School District is pleased to announce that Norman Mathews, a senior at W.T. Clarke High School, has been recognized as a Semifinalist in the National Achievement Scholarship Program. 

The National Achievement Scholarship Program is an academic competition established in 1964 to provided recognition for outstanding Black American high school students. 

Approximately 1,600 high-scoring participants in each year&amp;rsquo;s National Achievement Scholarship Program are designated Semifinalists. To ensure that academically talented Black American students throughout the nation are included in the pool, Semifinalists are named on a regional representation basis. They are the highest-scoring program participants in the states that constitute each region. 

As a Semifinalist named in the fall of 2010, Norman now has the opportunity to advance to Finalist standing so he can be considered for an Achievement Scholarship award to be offered in 2011. 

Congratulations and best of luck to Norman in the next round of the program!
</description>
      <link>http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1263</link>
      <pubDate>Tue, 19 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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