http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us Copyright 2013 Syntax Communications Residents in the East Meadow School District voted to support the 2013-14 budget on May 21 by a vote of 1,851 to 688. Thank you to all of our residents for their support of our schools. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10970 Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The W.T. Clarke High School chapter of the National Art Honor Society welcomed nine new members during a candlelighting ceremony in the school’s auditorium. Art Honor Society co-adviser Jane Pawlowski explained that in addition to excelling in the visual arts, these creatively-minded students are able to bring their individual talents to this prestigious organization. The society’s newest members are Monica Kwon, Kenneth Lau, Michelle Lau, Kathleen Phomsakha, Tricia Puchalski, Izzy Rodriguez, Ashleigh Simeon, Suzanne Tillwitz and Hayley Zirkel. Students who were honored at this National Art Honor Society induction celebration are currently enrolled in an art class and have maintained a 90 percent cumulative average in art as well as an 85 percent overall grade point average. During the ceremony, NAHS President Gabby Hickey, Vice President Ashleigh Simeon, Secretary Suzanne Tillwitz and Treasurer Anna Cavaluzzi described their passion for art and what being an artist means to them. Guest speaker and W.T. Clarke Assistant Principal Geraldine Doddato explained that art is always a part of life. “Never give up on your talent, your appreciation of art or your creation of art,” she told the inductees. “Help to create a more beautiful world.” After the membership certificates were awarded, the students and their families attended a reception in the school’s art gallery. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=11006 Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students at Meadowbrook Elementary School were enthralled with the presentation of the story “Rumpelstiltskin” by popular Durham, N.C. storyteller Donna Washington. Ms. Washington was invited to weave her literary magic with this age-old story about how one lie can spin out of control. The young students engaged in the session by repeating lines and mimicking gestures as Ms. Washington presented the story. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=11007 Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT In celebration of Mother’s Day, first-grade students in Ann Hagarty’s class at McVey Elementary School created books explaining what makes their mothers special. The students were instructed to make an outline, write a first draft of their essays, and then write a final copy to place in their books. The completed projects were then decorated and a photo of each student was placed on the back cover. Ms. Hagarty explained that the project utilized strong English language arts components. The students practiced their writing skills in sentence capitalization, spelling, correct grammar usage, organization, creating a title and developing an outline. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=11009 Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Four Woodland Middle School students have been working to educate the public about overfishing in Long Island waters. Dylan Amblo, Dominique Basso, Kayla Cartier and Rachel Rose are all sixth-graders who are enrolled in the school’s science research program. They received the prestigious honor of recently being named New York State’s first-place winners as well as one of eight top national middle school research teams in the Siemen’s, “We Can Change the World Challenge”. For their project, titled “Fishful Thinking,” the team researched Long Island’s aquaculture, particularly the overfishing of many species of fish. To prepare for the annual competition, the student-scientists were instructed to choose an environmental issue, research the issue and provide a solution. Through their research on overfishing, the team learned that with current fishing methods, fishing on Long Island will be nonexistent by 2048. This grim prospect prompted the students to raise $141 for the Cold Spring Harbor research program by selling fish fortune tellers, much like a fortune cookie, with a fish fact inside. They also plan to educate fellow students and adults about this issue, which will affect all Long Island residents. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=11010 Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Meadow School District is pleased to announce that students from East Meadow and W.T. Clarke high schools received awards at the annual Olympics of the Visual Arts competition held in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. in April. • The East Meadow High School Architecture group, which included David Gomez, Jenissel Maldonado, Camila Merchan and Alvin Sumgicay, won first place and were recognized as “most creative” in their category. • The East Meadow High School Photography duo of Michelle Karwowski and Anjelica Weber won first place. • The East Meadow High School Painting group, comprised of Jill Davis, Emily Gasparek, Vicky Lawoo, Annie Manley and Emily Mendelson, were recognized as being “most creative” in their category. • The East Meadow High School Drawing group, consisting of students Francesca Adams, Alex DeGeorge, Rheba Sam, Tiffany Tang and Nancy Zhou, and the W.T. Clarke High School Fashion group, comprised of students Nicole Callaghan, Allison Colantuono, Monica Kwon, Allison Muller, Farima Ristimi, Rita Rozen, Suzanne Tillwitz and Haley Zirkle, presented beautiful work at the competition. The Olympics of the Visual Arts, founded by the New York State Art Teachers Association, views the visual arts as a discipline that challenges and stimulates youth. The organization also believes that ingenuity and creative problem-solving in the visual arts is vital to a full and enriched life in our technological and scientific society. Under the direction of art teachers Joanna Greenberg and Shari Zimmerman, the entrants were required to exhibit a portfolio with long-term solutions, provide evidence of historical references, provide examples of problem-solving and include sketches and reflections. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=11008 Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Meadow School District is pleased to announce that four W.T. Clarke Middle School students enrolled in the seventh-grade Honors Science Research Program will compete in the finalist round of the Christopher Columbus Foundation Competition in Orlando, Florida this June. Under the direction of teachers Cindy Dale, Donna DelVecchio, and Wendy Wansor, student-scientists Ryan Abraham, Zachary Boccio, Matthew Rubenstein and Pavit Suri will present their project “Mission Insaltable,” which studies the problem of too much sodium in the teenage diet. This is only the second year that the seventh-grade Honors Science Research Program has entered this nationwide competition that encourages students to identify and solve a community problem. The students worked in groups of three or four, interviewed experts, conducted research and proposed solutions. In addition, each group submitted an entry that included a 10-page paper and visual presentation. “We are extremely proud of both the effort and fine work of the students and staff,” Principal Stacy Breslin stated. “The students problem-solved in the interest of their community.” In the first year of the program, W.T. Clarke Middle School boasted three semifinalist teams. This year, four teams, including Mission Insaltable, made it to the semifinalist round of competition. They include: “Let It Rain” – Anaha Babu, Olamaide Bakare, Alexia Huang and Kate Su “Just Relax” – Dean Frucci, Melanie Hock, Bradley Seltzer and Samantha Vicari “The Mold Squad” – Melissa Batenga, Gabby Torrento, Natalie Zaba and Natalie Zuniga Assistant Principal Linda Lynch also commented on the students’ achievements this school year. “Teamwork is very important here at Clarke Middle School, both at the student and teacher level,” she said. “This competition fosters both higher-level thinking and working together on so many levels.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10727 Sun, 12 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT W.T. Clarke Middle School is proud to announce that three science research students from Megan Denecke’s and Carol Simowitz’s honors earth science classes took first place in Nassau Community College’s fifteenth Annual Arts and Science Fair held on April 6. Danielle Fuchs, Skylar Hanson and Cindy Pham’s winning project was titled “The Effect of Propeller Size on the Energy Production of Windmills.” These science research students worked for several months to conduct background research and perform experiments in preparation for the science competition. The entrants displayed their research on project boards and then orally presented their findings to a panel of judges. The district would like to congratulate Danielle, Skylar and Cindy on this prestigious achievement. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10728 Sun, 12 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Onlookers were captivated by the musically talented students of Woodland Middle School who performed in the beautifully produced eighth-grade spring concert. An assortment of melodies from jazz to Tchaikovsky filled the auditorium as the audience reveled in this fun filled evening. The jazz ensemble, directed by John Marshall, opened the show with an enchanting trio of songs, starting with Bobby Timmons’ “Moanin’.” The eighth-grade orchestra, directed by Mindy Lamonica, performed next, ambitiously taking on a portion of Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake” as their first number. The eighth-grade chorus, directed by Jonathan Ross, harmonized on three songs with accompanist Meegan Coleman. The chorus was then joined by both the chamber orchestra and wind ensemble for a special performance of Michael and Angela Souders’ “Thank You, Soldiers.” This salute to Unites States military personnel, both past and present, featured solo vocalist Christina Prussen and was performed against a slideshow backdrop that was projected onto the auditorium stage. The concert culminated with the eighth-grade concert band, directed by Stephen Engle, playing three songs, including Claude-Michel Schonberg’s famous theme from “Les Misérables” as their finale. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10730 Sun, 12 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The W.T. Clarke High School and Middle School athletic community held its fifth annual Run with the Rams fundraiser on April 27, with the proceeds from donations, apparel sales and raffles benefiting a local family in need and the W.T. Clarke athletic program. The event welcomed participants of all ages and featured a 1-mile “fun run” as well as a lengthier 5K street race. The several hundred runners who had registered for the charitable event came out early to warm up and put on their official timing bibs so that their personal paces could be tracked. The races circled the neighborhood streets and finished in the rear of the schools’ athletic complex. Training for the 5K race was available for W.T. Clarke students and staff, and Janine Heilbronn and Josh Friedman served as race directors. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10731 Sun, 12 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The next time Woodland Middle School students Natalie Insinna and Aleena Manji purchase food, they will be experts in analyzing their meals’ nutritional guidelines. The two seventh-graders were recently named grand-prize winners in the Long Island Family and Consumer Sciences Challenge Meal at the Mall Competition. Using their knowledge of nutrition and meal planning, while employing mathematical skills, the students worked together to analyze data provided by four fast food establishments at the mall. They competed against their peers from across Nassau and Suffolk counties and will share a $100 cash prize. The Meal at the Mall Competition is sponsored by Family and Consumer Sciences. Their goal is to help individuals make healthier food choices. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10732 Sun, 12 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Meadow High School Languages Other Than English (LOTE) honor societies inducted their newest members in a ceremony complete with inspiring speeches, classical music and stylish dancing. “Tonight we are celebrating the passion and commitment to learning a language other than English. We do this through song, dance, poetry, and sign,” said District LOTE Chairperson Jenice Morgani. The American Sign Language, French, Italian, and Spanish honor society chapters took turns having their newest inductees repeat the prescribed oath in their studied language before crossing the apron of the school stage to receive a certificate, commemorative pin, and applause from the gathering of family, friends and classmates. Each group also presented a brief history of their society along with a song or dance relevant to their newly learned language. “With so many things going on in the world today, good and bad, don’t you really want to know what other people are thinking? It is your future,” said Spanish teacher and former Foreign Language Association of Chairpersons and Supervisors (FLACS) President Carman Campos, who served as the guest speaker for the event. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10729 Sat, 11 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Members of the Parkway Elementary School Service Club hosted a gathering with residents of East Meadow’s The Bristal Assisted Living facility. The students and seniors bridged the generation gap while playing games that utilized SMART Board technology. Service Club advisers Kelly Rohan and Pam Tobin explained that this activity was an excellent community outreach opportunity for the students. Subsequently, the young people were given a chance to mingle with older residents. After the students served snacks to their guests, they presented them with homemade flowers and decorative pillows for their homes. The seniors also received Parkway Elementary School tote bags in appreciation of their visit to the school. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10569 Sun, 05 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT W.T. Clarke High School students showcased their talents during the school’s annual Multicultural Show for fellow students and members of the community. An interpretation of a popular tune that utilized American Sign Language was included in the thirteen featured acts. In addition, the show highlighted Latin, Indian and Irish dancing; martial arts; and Latin songs. The Multicultural Club, which hosts the annual show, was established approximately eight years ago in an effort to promote tolerance and acceptance of diverse cultures. This tradition allows the students to embrace their own cultural heritages, as well as those of their peers. The performance demonstrates the success of this greatly supported endeavor. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10570 Sun, 05 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Community audiences were transported back to the bustling streets of New York City in the 1950s as talented theater and music students from East Meadow High School performed in Damon Runyon and Frank Loesser’s “Guys and Dolls.” Directed by Christopher Hale, with staging and musical choreography by Karen Goldman, the gifted cast and crew belted out popular favorites such as “Bushel and a Peck,” “I’ve Never Been in Love Before” and “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat” for appreciative fans. The classic show tells the story of Nathan Detroit, who bets fellow gambler Sky Masterson that he can’t convince cold female missionary Sarah Brown to accompany him to Havana. The plot becomes complicated, however, as Sky and Sarah fall in love and as Miss Adelaide tries to convince Nathan to marry her. Lots of missteps and a flair for the dramatic is the prescription for an unforgettable story. The musical production boasted an 80-member cast, technical staff, crew and design team, and the pit orchestra flawlessly played the challenging musical sets under the direction of Joel Levy. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10401 Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Lively fictional characters and bright costumes set the stage for the W.T. Clarke Middle School Drama Club’s presentation of Jay Thompson, Dean Fuller and Marshall Barer’s “Once Upon a Mattress.” Under the direction of Douglas Castillo, the 55-member cast and crew performed the adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Princess and the Pea” in true comedic fashion. Laughs and applause from family and community residents who attended the performances flooded the auditorium. In this fairy tale classic, Queen Aggravain has ruled that no one within the kingdom will be allowed to marry until her son, Prince Dauntless, has found a marriage partner. The queen is unprepared, however, for her decree has managed to sabotage every available princess that comes along. Lively lyrics by Marshall Barer and talented enthusiasm from the middle school cast made these performances memorable. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10402 Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The McVey Elementary School Student Council received a visit from Leukemia and Lymphoma Society representative Isai Fuentes. Mr. Fuentes discussed the mission of the society to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma and to improve the quality of patient life. After Mr. Fuentes’ presentation, student council members presented him with a generous donation totaling $400 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Pennies for Patients fund. As a reward for their kindness, the students were granted a schoolwide Pajama Day celebration. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10403 Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Meadowbrook Elementary School fifth-graders celebrated “Book Character Day” by dressing up as their favorite fictional characters. Such beloved literary personas included Thing 1 and Thing 2, SpongeBob and Disney princesses. The activity was held in conjunction with the Parents as Reading Partners program to promote reading and literacy in the district. Assistant Principal Gail Gallucci got into the spirit by dressing in pajamas to celebrate her favorite polar bear, Percy, in “The Practically Perfect Pajamas” by Erik Brooks. Fifth-grade teachers Emily Caroddo and Valerie Kasper and intervention assistant Bonnie Kircher were dressed as characters from the book “Esperanza Rising” by Pam Muñoz Ryan, a book being read by all fifth-grade students as part of the Expeditionary Learning program. Book Character Day not only offered students the opportunity to name their favorite character and book, it also fostered discussion about literature. In addition the students spoke with their peers about many of their much-loved stories. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10377 Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT PrestoChair.com http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10332 Sun, 21 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Meadow High School Winter Guard placed first out of 10 competitive teams in the Scholastic Novice division of the Bridgewater-Raritan High School Competition. This was the group’s fourth public performance of the season. Winter Guard is an indoor color guard activity usually performed in a gymnasium or indoor arena. Unlike color guard, the performance is accompanied by prerecorded music instead of a live band or orchestra. Under the direction of teacher Molly Tittler, the 28-member group performed for the first time at Mineola High School in January. Their polished performance earned them first place against two other groups in the Scholastic Novice division. The season will conclude at the Mid-Atlantic Indoor Network Championship at South Brunswick High School on April 20. The district would like to wish the East Meadow High School Winter Guard team the best of luck with their competition. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10237 Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Robotics Club students from W.T. Clarke High School participated in the 2013 Long Island Regional FIRST Robotics Competition at the David S. Mack Sports & Exhibition Complex at Hofstra University. This annual national program challenges students to build a 130-pound robot during a six-week timeframe, using a standard “kit of parts” and common set of rules. For this year’s theme, “Ultimate Ascent,” the robotics students designed and built a robot which can shoot Frisbees and climb a metal pyramid. The robot uses two motors to shoot each Frisbee out from the robot and a pneumatic system to climb the bottom rung of the metal pyramid. For the first 15 minutes of the competition, “the autonomous period”, the robot was able to shoot Frisbees automatically without being controlled by the driver. For the remainder of the last two minutes and 15 seconds, a driver operated the robot. Adviser Mike Conners explained that for the first few rounds of the competition, the team was having difficulty during the autonomous period and attained the 33rd place position out of fifty teams. “However, we turned it around the second day and were able to secure 16th place by the end of the competition,” Mr. Conners said. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10232 Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Working under the direction of science teacher Megan Denecke, 15 students from W.T. Clarke Middle School attended the Science Olympiad competition at Kellenberg Memorial High School. Of these, six students took home awards in their respective events. Matthew Heitner and Joshiah Phillips placed second in the “Metric Mastery” category; Erjin Choi and Cindy Pham placed fourth in “Dynamic Planet - Glaciers”; and Alby Joseph and Bismen Singh received a sixth-place finish in “Reach for the Stars.” Prior to the competition, the students worked diligently to prepare for their events by researching, taking practice exams and compiling information regarding their topics. W.T. Clarke was one of fifty middle school teams from Long Island to participate in these competitive events that tested students’ knowledge in astronomy, earth science, engineering, mapping, biology and chemistry. “The students’ hard work clearly paid off,” Ms. Denecke stated, “all team members should be very proud of their performances and for participating in this academic event.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10235 Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Twenty-six students from W.T. Clarke High School were welcomed into Chapter 1768 of the Tri-M Music Honor Society in an induction ceremony held on April 9 at Verdi’s restaurant in Westbury. The event included a flute and clarinet duet by W.T. Clarke musicians Alexandra Leonardo and Brianna Riggs, along with a vocal duet by Margaret Cotter and Gina Principato. Jordi Ariel Lotito and Daniel Wang also entertained the crowd with a dazzling violin duet. Later in the evening, Clarke alumna Kristen Norwark was presented with an honorary lifetime membership into the society, and Tri-M officers were introduced to the crowd. Abby Behr, the district’s director of music and art, presented certificates to the new inductees and recognized the society’s continuing members. The Tri-M Music Honor Society is the international music honor society for middle/junior high and high school students, and is designed to recognize young musicians for their academic and musical achievements. According to the National Association for Music Education website, the society’s purpose is to reward the student-musicians for their accomplishments and service activities, and to inspire other students to excel in music and leadership. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10236 Sun, 14 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10224 Sun, 14 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The stage came alive at Woodland Middle School as the 60-member Drama Club cast and crew successfully presented “Leader of the Pack” for the school community. The musical is a retrospective honoring the life and times of American songwriter, singer and record producer Ellie Greenwich, whose music skyrocketed to the top of the 1960s music charts. The audience could not help but dance in their seats as they silently mouthed the words of this musical parade of over 20 popular and catchy tunes, which included “Be My Baby,” “Do Wah Diddy,” and “Then He Kissed Me.” All musical selections were expertly played by the pit band under the direction of conductor Scott Eckers. Directors Shelly Brennan and Mathias Holtzman explained that this production was more challenging because of the extent of the many songs included in this musical review. “Generally, a typical show for us has eight to twelve songs,” Ms. Brennan stated, “so our challenge was to learn the words, harmonies and choreography.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10117 Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT W.T. Clarke Middle School welcomed 23 new members to its chapter of the Junior Tri-M Music Honor Society during an induction ceremony at Verdi’s in Westbury. “Tri-M membership is a true honor,” said W.T. Clarke Middle School Principal Stacy Breslin in her address to the inductees. “I am proud of your dedication to your music and amazed by your talent. With continued effort, I am certain you will exceed all of our expectations.” The new honorees join the roster of the 27 continuing members who also took part in the ceremony. Students inducted into the Tri-M Music Honor Society have demonstrated academic excellence in music in addition to outstanding character and service. The W.T. Clarke Middle School Tri-M inductees are: Megan Delaney Julianna Goyzueta Jesse Hirshon Angela Holloway Jonathan Huang Sonia Iacoboni Briana Iadevaia Ashley Morais-Perez Rubani Narang Alyssa Pancho Debra Perlman Henry Qi Kathryn Raduazzo Devon Rafanelli Jordyn Rindner Anthony Schilt Amanda Seims Bradley Seltzer Eshan Shakrani Derek Smith Louis Zaino Joseph Zirkel Joshua Zirkel http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10118 Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT In front of an adoring crowd of family members, classmates and school faculty, hundreds of musicians from the East Meadow School District gave an exquisite performance at Long Island University’s Tilles Center for the Performing Arts in Brookville on March 20, 2013. The district high school chorus and chamber orchestra, under the direction of guest conductor Dr. James John, opened the event with Mozart’s “Requiem.” The middle school chorus followed with Greg Holden and Drew Pearson’s “Home.” Later in the evening, the combined middle school and high school district chorus performed a Stephen Hatfield arrangement of “Son de Camaguey,” featuring Joshua Dawson, Aliyah Gill, Jordan Moldowsky and Jaden Nogee on percussion. The high school symphonic band, under the direction of guest conductor Roger Cichy, capped the night with two Roger Cichy numbers and John Philip Sousa’s “The Stars and Stripes Forever.” This extraordinary event was made possible in part by the Community Outreach Program at the Tilles Center, and it was co-sponsored by the Tilles Center Arts-in-Education program. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10113 Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT In an effort to curtail bullying and promote friendships amongst the student body, student members of the Social Emotional Literacy Committee at Woodland Middle School participated in “A Classroom of Difference” workshop, which was sponsored through a grant from the Anti-Defamation League. Having been previously named as a “Gold Star No Place for Hatred Award” recipient, Woodland Middle School was honored by receiving the opportunity to host this workshop. Under the direction of teacher facilitators Tolanda Tolbert and Denise Ham, students and school staff worked together in this full-day program, where they learned how to promote respect, inclusiveness and civility by addressing issues of bullying and cyberbullying. The workshop focused on the students’ ability to become “allies” to one another by reacting to name-calling or bullying. In addition, the group developed an understanding of how to address cyber-bullying. “Now that you are older, you have a moral responsibility to do something and not just place yourself in the role of a bystander,” Ms. Tolbert stated. The second session of the workshop concentrated on the online and cellphone cyber-bullying component. Ms. Tolbert explained that the way to stop this form of bullying is to not forward a message. “The rule of thumb for how to live our lives is the same rule for our online behavior,” she advised. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10114 Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Continuing the district’s tradition of academic excellence, 68 students enrolled at W.T. Clarke Middle School were inducted into the National Junior Honor Society during a candlelighting ceremony held at Verdi’s of Westbury. This prestigious society serves to honor those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, leadership, citizenship, service, and character. The honorees, considered to be among the finest students nationwide, are commended for their outstanding achievements both inside and outside of the classroom. Principal Stacy Breslin praised the parents in attendance as she acknowledged that they were their children’s first inspirational influence in life. She reiterated that parents are “the first teachers”. To the students she stated, “Your academic record speaks for itself, but what makes us most proud is your mindset, determination and work ethic.” After the officers lit each candle and explained the requisites for induction into the society, the inductees were called up individually to the dais to receive their certificates. Guest speaker and English teacher Patricia Hartman also congratulated the students on their impressive achievements. “Always remember this moment and the accomplishments you have made to achieve this great honor,” she stated. “You are all individual stars shining high and brilliantly in the night sky.” After the induction, the students celebrated with their families over a wonderful meal. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10115 Sun, 07 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT McVey and Parkway elementary schools each recently held “a celebration of reading” event at Barnes & Noble Booksellers in Carle Place as part of their annual Parents as Reading Partners program. The festivities were sponsored by PTA members from their respective schools and offered an opportunity for administrators and teachers to read their favorite books to students. In addition the children were allowed to browse for books in the vast wonderland of literature at the Barnes & Nobles book store. The fun-filled evenings included a scavenger hunt, a station where students could create their own bookmark and musical performances by the schools’ bands and orchestras. Lending to the festive atmosphere, many students dressed up as their favorite storybook characters. Thank you to the McVey and Parkway PTAs for making these events memorable for everyone in attendance. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10116 Sun, 07 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10037 Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Parkway Elementary School students recently had an opportunity to work with Northport artist Esther Tollen in creating a mosaic that will eventually decorate a wall in the school’s building. Funded through the Cultural Arts Committee, Ms. Tollen worked with each class in creating all components of the mural. In addition to the school’s name, the picture depicts a garden scene with billowing clouds and sunny skies During the weeklong activity, the students were taught the entire process of creating a mosaic, from first sketching an idea to the actual application of tiles. Prior to beginning their creation, students received a history lesson about the art of mosaic and were able to view photographs of ancient artwork. “One piece of artwork tells us what people wore and what role they played in history,” Ms. Tollen told the students. Each student worked with Ms. Tollen in placing the pieces of tile, glass and stone and then filling in the grout lines. To reinforce the art of mosaic, the students were instructed to create individual paper mosaics. “This has been an incredible experience for the entire school,” Principal Jamie Mack stated. “We really appreciate the new skills learned through this exciting artist-in- residence workshop.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9937 Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT In March, community members, administrators and Board of Education trustees volunteered to share their favorite children’s books with students at Parkway Elementary School, as part of a month long “Parents as Reading Partners” celebration. The daylong activity encouraged students to become excited about literature, while supporting their reading and listening skills. Superintendent of Schools, Louis R. DeAngelo, visited Jacki Rudin’s first-grade class and read his favorite children’s book, “I Wanna Iguana” by author Karen Kaufman Orloff. Former Superintendent of Schools Leon J. Campo, accompanied by his reading buddy “O” (a stuffed orangutan), visited Kelly Zawasky’s second-grade class to read “Bendemolena” by Jan Slepian and Ann Seidler. “A book is like a friend,” Mr. Campo told the students. “It takes you to different places on the earth.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9844 Thu, 21 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The W.T. Clarke High School Chapters of the Languages Other Than English (LOTE) Honor Societies held their annual induction ceremony. The evening’s celebration was highlighted by musical ensembles, a dance exhibition, poetry readings, and an American Sign Language demonstration. Congratulatory speeches were read and multilingual oaths were repeated, as this select group of students was granted inclusion into these prestigious societies. A total of 47 students were inducted into the Alpha Sigma Lambda Chapter of ASL, La Société Honoraire de Français, La Società Onoraria Italica and La Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica. Assistant Principal Geraldine Doddato explained that knowing a country’s culture is as important as learning its language. She also reiterated that there is now proof that speaking two languages expands the brain. “Language is the doorway to another world,” Ms. Doddato stated. “It will become even more important in the acquisition of a job.” The ideal candidates considered for induction into these societies distinguished themselves in their chosen language study, as well as in their overall academic achievement, responsibility and community service. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9845 Thu, 21 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students throughout the district, who are enrolled in the middle and high schools’ American Sign Language (ASL) courses, attended a unique assembly with performances given by the Little Theatre of the Deaf, which is the children's ensemble troupe of the National Theatre of the Deaf. This troupe’s mission is to simultaneously educate and entertain through their performances. The actors use sign language in an effort to broaden the audience’s awareness, understanding and appreciation of deaf culture. Using simple props, the actors combined the spoken word with sign language during a performance of a show called “The W 5.” During this act, students were asked to identify the essential components of the story including “who, what, when, where and why.” In addition, students were selected to participate in the presentation of the many other stories that were told, including “Time Machine to 601,” “Why There are Stars in the Sky,” “What Happens Next?” and “Your Game.” For the students in the audience, the assembly was an opportunity to sharpen their sign language skills. The district’s ASL program is the largest in New York State with over 450 students enrolled. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9846 Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Bowling Green Elementary School students were treated to a special presentation given by Kathleen Bart, author of “A Tale of Two Teddies: Celebrating the History of the Teddy Bear.” Ms. Bart spoke about the history of the teddy bear, while sharing the many interesting facts about how the teddy bear became a worldwide icon. In addition, the students were introduced to Ms. Bart’s own “American-style” teddy bear that accompanies her on all school trips. While noting that imagination is her most important writing tool, Ms. Bart described the writing process and the additional tools that she utilized for her research in her other published books. “I use my imagination to draw and write about the things I like most,” she stated. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9725 Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT During an assembly for students at Barnum Woods Elementary School, the “Golden Rule” rang true. Motivational speaker Joe Trionfero’s “Show of Love” presentation not only reiterated the many principles that are taught through the school’s character education program, but also highlighted the fact that everyone can empathize with others if he or she listens and pays attention to body language. “You can hear what someone else feels,” Mr. Trionfero told the students. “Relationships with others are about understanding what another person is feeling.” Although “Show of Love’s” main objective was to emphasize the principles of respect and kindness, it also touched on listening to others with “your ears, eyes and heart.” Mr. Trionfero instructed the students to place themselves in another person’s shoes before making a judgment. He pointed out that you can “stop the hurt” by taking control of cruel actions and criticism. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9726 Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Critically acclaimed drum band Hip Pickles delivered an awe-inspiring performance to students at Barnum Woods Elementary School in an effort to promote the six pillars of character along with the district’s anti-bullying initiatives. Through this interactive presentation titled “Music with a Message,” student-volunteers were invited to play along with the Hip Pickles band. By working together to create beautiful rhythmic beats, the students portrayed the qualities of teamwork and cooperation. Hip Pickles also emphasized the importance of treating others fairly. “To be happy, you have to think about others,” drummer Chet stated. “You should always use the right words to make people feel good.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9728 Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students at Barnum Woods Elementary School learned about the heart and the body’s blood flow through a unique lesson that was part of a three-week study about heart health and nutrition. Under the direction of physical education teacher Debbie Barbato and Donald Whearty, students rotated through an obstacle course resembling the cardiovascular system. They performed tasks at stations that represented each part of the heart. The students entered a parachute, symbolizing the body’s lungs. They then “traveled” to the pulmonary vein, left ventricle, right atrium and finally, the pulmonary artery, all while performing a series of cardiovascular exercises. Each station throughout the course was labeled with a note to remind the students of the station’s, or system’s function. Mr. Whearty explained, “By simulating the heart through the obstacle course, the students were able to gain a clear understanding about how blood travels through our body.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9727 Wed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Poodle skirts, Thunderbirds, black leather jackets and the Burger Palace helped to transport community audiences back to Rydell High School in 1959. In early March, talented students from W.T. Clarke High School performed in Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey’s production of “Grease”. In this two act musical, popular song favorites such as, “Greased Lightning”, “We Go Together”, and “You’re the One That I Want”, brought spectators back to days gone by. Directed by Kristen Norwark, the W.T. Clarke High School production boasted a cast and crew of 65 talented student-actors and design team members. The orchestra, under the direction of conductor Adrianna Donovan, flawlessly performed the tunes of music from a bygone era. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9600 Sun, 10 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT In January 2013, High School Inaugural Scholars were invited to our nation’s capital for a unique and extraordinary opportunity to explore the presidency and the presidential campaigns and take part in the excitement and celebration of America’s 57th Presidential Inauguration. As part of the National Youth Leadership Program, East Meadow High School junior Adena Baichan was given the honor of attending this prestigious event this past January. The High School Presidential Inaugural Conference is held in Washington, D.C. every four years in conjunction with the formal Inauguration of the President and Vice President of the United States. For five days, Adena attended workshops that provided insight into how the government operates. She also had the opportunity to listen to famous guest speakers that included national journalists, government officials and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. In addition, Adena received the privilege of attending one of the inaugural balls held at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Adena admitted that the highlight of the conference was witnessing President Obama deliver his inaugural speech on the National Mall. “It was surreal to see him actually give his inaugural speech,” Adena stated. “There are no words to express how it felt to watch history in the making.” Adena is an editor of the school newspaper and plans to study journalism in college. She explained that the conference has pushed her to work harder in order to make a career in journalism become a reality. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9602 Sun, 10 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students from W.T. Clarke and Woodland middle schools were honored as Terrific Kids for the months of December, January and February at the February, 28, 2013 Board of Education meeting. As part of this program, sponsored by the East Meadow Kiwanis, students are recognized for their character, citizenship and perseverance. Each of the recipients was presented with a certificate of achievement by middle school principals Stacy Breslin and James Lethbridge along with East Meadow Kiwanis President Debbie Kirsh. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9603 Sun, 10 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The story that was inspired by the popular singer Elvis Presley and his draft notice into the Army in 1957, was brought to life by McVey Elementary School students. The all-American teenage musical comedy “Bye Bye Birdie” was performed in a one-night performance on February 7, 2013. This production gave the audience a retro look at an era when an appearance on Ed Sullivan’s television show was the true testament of fame. This classic show, directed by math teacher Charles Angeli, has been a mainstay of school theatre groups for nearly 50 years. It tells the story of naive teenager Kim MacAfee and how her life is turned upside down when she is chosen to bid farewell to newly drafted pop megastar Conrad Birdie. Her life and the lives of everyone around her get caught up in a media circus that descends upon them with hilarious results. The score of familiar songs including “Put on a Happy Face” and “Kids” thrilled audience members and had them singing along in their seats. Bravo! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9601 Sat, 09 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT W.T. Clarke High School senior Daniel Wang has been selected as one of 250 finalists in the 2012-2013 Coca-Cola Scholars Program, which acknowledges his outstanding achievements as a leader in his school and community. Daniel was chosen from a group of more than 100,000 applicants and 2,200 semifinalists. As a finalist, Daniel will attend “Scholars Weekend” in Atlanta this April, where he will compete to become one of 50 National Scholars, each of whom is awarded a $20,000 scholarship. The remaining 200 finalists will be named Regional Scholars and granted a scholarship worth $10,000. In addition to scheduled interviews, Daniel will join the other finalists who are being honored for their achievements, by attending the Coca-Cola Scholars Banquet, which will take place at the Georgia World Congress Center. Award-winning journalist Tom Brokaw will serve as the keynote speaker. The weekend will be filled with seminars, tours of local landmarks, social gatherings and the opportunity to participate in a community service project sponsored by Coca-Cola. The district would like to congratulate Daniel on this accomplishment and wish him the best of luck in the next level of competition. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9472 Sun, 03 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT While utilizing a Valentine’s Day theme, first-grade teachers at McVey Elementary School designed lessons that bridged both literacy and math curriculum. During these creative units, that reflected New York State first grade Common Core State Standards for literacy and math, the students completed tasks in three separate centers that highlighted writing, word choice, graphing, counting and sorting. At the “Valentine Love Bugs” station, students designed “love bug” headdresses. On their creations, students wrote a description of their bug, while utilizing a number of adjectives that they had brainstormed. At another center, students created acrostic poems based on the word “love.” The students then glued their poem to a heart to give to a loved one. At the final station, students sorted “Sweethearts Candies” by color and subsequently graphed their results. The students were also given math problems to complete, which were all centered on a Valentine’s Day theme. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9322 Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The district is pleased to announce that W.T. Clarke High School student Stefanie Kaufman is the recipient of the prestigious President’s Volunteer Service Award. Stefanie initiated “Project LETS” (Let’s Erase the Stigma), an educational program designed to spread awareness about mental illness, while addressing suicide prevention. She is currently working with Congress to establish a state-mandated program for teachers who will be trained every year on issues related to both of these societal problems. Stefanie also provides workshops and lectures to regional organizations. Stefanie explained her motivation for starting Project LETS, “There is a real lack of awareness and programs in America that address mental illness and suicide.” The President’s Volunteer Service Award is distributed to individuals and groups dedicated to the service of others. This prestigious award is granted by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation. It was created to thank volunteers who, by their demonstrated commitment, serve as an example to others. In addition to her volunteer services, Stefanie is the school’s student government vice president. She is a member of the National Honor Society, and the art, math and science honor societies. She is an avid soccer player who still finds time to coordinate a school poetry anthology. In the fall, Stefanie looks forward to attending Brown University, where she intends to study neuroscience and literary arts. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9178 Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Learning how to research a topic and communicate the information in a coherent manner is an important high-level skill for all students. At Parkway Elementary School, fifth grade students in Larry D’Angelo’s class recently utilized their research and writing abilities as they studied civil rights legends. Through their investigation of important figures such as Hank Aaron, Ruby Bridges and Harriet Tubman, the class acquired valuable information that indicated how these legends’ societal contributions are still relevant today. The students were instructed to research their legendary figures using primary and secondary resources. Each student created guiding questions based on their research. They then paraphrased this newly obtained information and developed a research report with an illustrated cover. The students were then divided into small groups. While each report was presented, group members became motivated and engaged listeners, as they jotted down notes and significant information. To summarize, the group collectively discussed the facts contained in each report. “This assignment is part of Expeditionary Learning,” Mr. D’Angelo explained. “The students focused on the writing of a complete report on a topic of interest, internalized important research and presentation skills, and became motivated and engaged listeners.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9179 Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Woodland Middle School student Abel Ninan is the first place winner of the school’s 2013 spelling bee. As the first-place winner, Abel will now advance to the regional competition of the Scripps Spelling Bee at Hofstra University. During the school competition to determine a regional representative, Abel defeated 19 contestants in the annual bee. The district would like to congratulate the following students on qualifying to compete in the Woodland Middle School Spelling Bee: Daniella Acuna Paige Blayne Christian Degregori Hooria Haque Haley Hatzelman Priscilla Hernandez Sabera Hossain Kelvin Leyva-Gomez Joseph Maltese Olivia Megale Esha Misra Abel Ninan Matthew Percoco Calie Quinones Renata Quinto Zahra Sharieff Elisabeth Shin Won Son Shane Weiner http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9180 Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students at Woodland Middle School stepped out of their comfort zones at lunchtime and mingled with unfamiliar peers during the school’s annual “Mix It Up Day”. Hosted by the Social Emotional Literacy Committee, the students went beyond their typical social divisions and tried to connect with someone with whom they were not familiar. Assistant Principal Patricia Graham explained that many students never take the time to introduce themselves to others who share the same lunch period. “This activity is designed to take the students out of their comfort zones and to meet new people and possibly develop new friendships,” she said. The theme this year for Mix It Up Day was “Candy Lands.” Each student received a bracelet decorated with a photo of a specific kind of candy that corresponded with a table in the cafeteria. At their assigned tables, the students worked collaboratively to guess the number of Hershey’s Kisses in a jar. Additional games and continuous raffles took place throughout the lunch period. Last year, the Teaching Tolerance Organization named Woodland Middle School a “Mix It Up Model School” for its attempts to foster respect and understanding among students. The school was one of 77 schools nationwide to receive this honor. The administration and staff would like to thank the student facilitators from Woodland’s Social Emotional Literacy Committee, National Junior Honor Society Executive Board and Peer Helpers for their assistance in encouraging the students to participate in this fun activity. This year’s event was a huge success. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9181 Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Under the direction of advisers Christine Castro, Laura Papaleo and Lynn Richman, Chain Links Club members at Woodland Middle School created over 300 snowflakes for students attending the new Sandy Hook Elementary School facility in Newtown, Connecticut. At the request of Sandy Hook’s PTSA, students across the country were encouraged to design and send snowflakes to decorate the school walls in an effort to create a welcoming and peaceful “winter wonderland.” The Chain Links Club at Woodland Middle School will continue the momentum of the lessons taught during the Rachel’s Challenge presentation. The club aims to start chain reactions of kindness throughout the school, while developing a more relaxed and positive environment. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9182 Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9205 Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students at Parkway Elementary School reveled in an interactive presentation of magical tales given by Dr. Jeri Burns and Barry Marshall, otherwise known as the Storycrafters. Using a variety of techniques to orally present stories and images, the duo delighted the students with Diane Wolkstein’s Haitian folktale of “Tipingee”, while comparing it to the popular fairy tale “Cinderella.” The students collaborated with the Storycrafters to retell an original story of a cooking pot which was left in the backyard during the winter. Mr. Marshall engaged the students in this tale by having them practice their language skills by continually repeating the names of creatures who tried to make the pot their home by cramming into its small space. During this special presentation, the students were also exposed to tools of language, gesture, expression and tonality, as ways to express themselves when creating their own stories. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9177 Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8989 Sun, 03 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT W.T. Clarke Middle School science research students Joe Carlino, Erin Connolly and Stephanie Papoutsakis are setting out to prove that walking throughout the day can be the key to fitness and the solution to teenage obesity. Under the direction of science research teachers Donna DelVecchio and Wendy Wansor, English teacher Cindy Dale and physical education teacher Tim O’Malley, these student-scientists are conducting an experiment to illustrate how a pedometer application on a cellphone can help teens become more physically fit. Thirty classmates and 10 teachers have enlisted in this one-week experiment, and the results will be entered into the Christopher Columbus Research competition, along with projects from 60 additional honors research students. According to the students, the presidential initiative “Let’s Move” recommends walking 11,000 steps per day for a teenage girl and 13,000 for a teenage boy. Each participant has downloaded a free pedometer application on his/her cellphone, which will clock the number of steps taken per day. The students are also planning to create an awareness routine for the school’s student body by hanging posters about the benefits of walking and the number of steps from one school destination to the other. Erin remarked that this experiment has opened her eyes to the limited number of steps she takes each day. “When I started the experiment I walked only 5,000 steps a day, and now I know that I have to walk a lot more to keep fit.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8959 Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT In the weeks and months following Superstorm Sandy, students throughout the district united to help those affected by the devastating storm. At each elementary school in particular, students participated in a variety of projects. Barnum Woods Elementary School adopted the Francis X. Hegarty Elementary School in the Island Park School District, which took on several feet of water in the lower-level classrooms during the storm. As a result, the school was forced to relocate 400 students to the middle school. During the month of January, the Barnum Woods student council is hosting a campaign to raise money to replace Hegarty Elementary School’s musical instruments and leveled literature books. At Bowling Green Elementary School, students expressed their appreciation to out-of-state service workers who left their families for days and weeks to assist the East Meadow community after the storm. Students in grades one through five wrote letters to the workers employed by P&T Electric in Illinois, Lucas Tree Experts in Maine and Lakeland Electric in Florida for cutting down fallen trees and helping families restore power to their homes. The older Bowling Green students used a computer to write their letters and then decorated each with a photo. Some of the students’ sentiments included appreciation for removal of trees from their roofs, the ability to watch their favorite television shows, and sympathy for those who were separated from their own children back at home. The activity not only reinforced the students’ writing skills, but also emphasized many personal attributes highlighted in the school’s character education program. Prior to the holiday season, McVey Elementary School also assisted in the relief effort. The school’s K-Kids sponsored a collection for needy families in the area, some of whom were affected by the storm. The children developed a “Snowman of Kindness” bulletin board which held paper snowmen listing the needs of families in the community. Under the direction of K-Kids adviser Deirdre O’Regan and social worker Theresa Arnone, students chose a snowman, bought the listed toy or household item, and delivered their gift to the holding bin. This year, nine McVey families were provided with gifts for the holidays. In addition, students at Parkway Elementary School got in the holiday spirit by launching Operation Sandy Claus. They collected enough school supplies to fill over 500 stockings for students enrolled at West Elementary School in Long Beach. Operation Sandy Claus was organized by the student council and students involved in the Presidential Service Program. Pencil cases, highlighters, index cards, glue sticks, crayons, markers, pens and notepads were stuffed into mesh stockings for the students affected by Superstorm Sandy. Meanwhile, Meadowbrook Elementary School students and staff held a “Day of Giving” to help families still recovering. Under the direction of social worker Margherita Diglio and student council adviser Laura Baez, students collected baby supplies, batteries, personal hygiene and dental products, pet supplies, cleaning products, blankets and clothes. The clothes were then delivered to Hicks Nursery in Jericho, which was a drop-off site for Long Island Cares. Long Island Cares then distributed these items along the hardest-hit south shore communities. Ms. Diglio remarked that the students came together in this time of crisis and helped others who are in serious need of assistance. “The Long Island Cares workers told me that in the number of years they have worked for the organization, they have never seen a school give such an overwhelming amount of items during a time of crisis,” she stated. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8889 Sun, 27 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT W.T. Clarke Middle School students Naman Shakrani and Nicole Artoglou are the first- and second-place winners, respectively, of the school’s 2013 spelling bee. Naman, who correctly spelled “philodendron,” will now advance to the regional competition of the Scripps Spelling Bee at Hofstra University. Prior to the bee, the middle school students were tested, and 27 qualified as finalists. The intense seven-round competition lasted approximately one hour, until the winner was named. When asked the secret to his success, Naman explained that he pictures the word in his head before spelling it. “I ask my parents and my brother to keep quizzing me,” he added. “I also ask for all of the information about the word, even if I know how to spell it already.” The following students qualified as finalists in the school’s spelling bee: Nicole Artoglou Bryanna Bell Gabrielle Breviario Aristyne Diaz Nicholas Dornheim Caitlin Eng Jean Estupinan Devin Finneran Shayan Huda Brandon Hungria Vincent Joaquin Justin Kersh Lauren Lorusso Matt Louie Jonathan Melkun Abby Pineda Hassina Rasuli Alyssa Roberts Gabriella Rothberg Ethan Scherer Anthony Schilt Aashini Shah Eshan Shakrani Naman Shakrani Derek Smith Joshua Zirkel Mirian Zuniga http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8890 Sun, 27 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Art reflected the words of poets as intricately designed and colorful dragons hung on the wall of McVey Elementary School’s main hallway. Under the direction of art teacher Cheryl Safren, the students combined their studies of poetry to concoct fanciful designs of literary creatures through a new art medium. The fifth-grade art students studied poems about dragons and were instructed to circle the descriptive words in each poem. Using the descriptive terms, each student then drew his or her version of a dragon on paper and transferred the image to tooling metal using a wooden stylus. The recessed part of the newly transferred image was colored with a special marker for metals, giving the artwork the appearance of stained glass. The poems were also posted with the dragon display to add depth and meaning to the artwork. “Not only did the students learn a new art skill, they gained further appreciation for the language of poetry,” Ms. Safren stated. “This unit is an example of how we can combine art with English language arts. The result is a colorful and fun display of our work.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8891 Sun, 27 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The math and science chapters of the W.T. Clarke High School national honor societies held their fall induction ceremony, at which a combined 43 new members were welcomed. The honor societies, known for their high admissions standards, are intended for juniors and seniors who maintain a 90 percent GPA or better. Membership in these prestigious groups also requires students to contribute their time and services for the betterment of their school. “Continue to grow throughout the years,” encouraged W.T. Clarke High School senior Daniel Wang, who as president of both societies, swore in the newest members. In her closing remarks, adviser Debbie Langone thanked the students for their leadership and contributions they have made in their school, community and society. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8860 Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students enrolled in East Meadow High School’s law classes are utilizing their newly acquired knowledge to serve on the Nassau County Youth Court. Drawn from the school’s Introduction to Law class, these volunteers are trained through the district attorney’s office to take on the roles of prosecutor, defense attorney, bailiff, clerk and juror during Youth Court hearings at the Hempstead Village Court. The volunteers attend an interview at the district attorney’s office, and those chosen for Youth Court must then train during a two-day seminar in the summer. The goal of Youth Court – a forum which allows teens accused of minor crimes to be judged and punished by their peers – is to assist teens under the age of 17 to stay out of the criminal justice system, to take responsibility for their actions and to reconnect with the community. The sentences by Youth Court volunteers are honored and can include mandatory community service, oral and written apologies, essays, Youth Court jury duty, restitution, curfew or mediation. Youth Court volunteer Briyenna Souter, who wants to pursue law when she attends college, commented that the program lays solid groundwork for a prospective career as an attorney. Vidya Laljie, who wants to pursue a career in criminal justice, commented that it is interesting how the defendants learn from their mistakes and respond to their verdicts and sentencing. Justin Schloss, who has been a Youth Court volunteer for two years, also plans on a career in criminal justice. “It is interesting to see how the justice system works and how we, as Youth Court volunteers, can help,” he stated. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8861 Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Kindergarten students in Pam Tobin’s class at Parkway Elementary School celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday by reading books about his life and studying his message about treating others with kindness. After the students discussed the idea that he was a “bucket filler,” they took an oath to be peacemakers like Dr. King and to be accepting of others. Using construction paper, the kindergartners cut out two hands holding up a heart to reaffirm Dr. King’s message. “The design reinforces the message that the students will accept others, no matter what their differences may be,” Ms. Tobin stated. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8881 Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Meadow School District is pleased to announce that the East Meadow High School Model Congress received the Best Delegation award during the January 15 competition at Wantagh High School. “We are very proud of the students who arrived at this competition as a powerhouse team ready to debate the issues of the day,” co-advisor Liz McLaughlin stated. Model Congress is a debate-style club which allows members to sharpen their oratory skills. During competitions, the students use parliamentary procedure to debate issues such as Supreme Court decisions, domestic matters, philosophy and other topics during a forum modeled after the U.S. Congress. During a debate, two speakers have two minutes to voice their approval for or opposition to an issue, and a general debate on the topic ensues. There is then a move to vote on the issue being debated. Ms. McLaughlin explained that Model Congress has grown over the course of the past several years and now boasts a strong membership. Fifty students act as foreign delegates who travel to the weekend competitions. Ms. McLaughlin also pointed out that, although she and co-advisor Joe Byrne advise the Model Congress, the club is essentially student-run. The benefits of belonging to Model Congress include opportunities to sharpen public speaking skills and the learning of parliamentary procedure and decorum. Foreign delegate Anxhela Mile explained that Model Congress is an excellent way to meet new people and hone skills that can be applied to future career choices. “We are debating and speaking about the issues we love,” she stated. “These skills may be precursors to skills we will need in our chosen careers.” Varun Gandhi and Neil Khosla, also foreign delegates, said it is the environment that draws them to membership in Model Congress. “We meet people in different schools who are like-minded and with whom we can discuss similar ideas,” Neil stated. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8882 Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Sixty-two students from the East Meadow School District have been recognized by The College Board for their exceptional performance on Advanced Placement (AP) exams taken during the 2011-2012 school year. Students at both East Meadow High School and W.T. Clarke High School are afforded the opportunity to participate in various AP courses through which they can earn college credit with a successful performance on their AP exams. Four students were named an AP Scholar with Distinction meaning they received an average grade of 3.5 on all AP exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams (out of the highest possible score of a 5). Congratulations to Jordi Lotito from W.T. Clarke High School and Harish Jeyasri, Neil Khosla and Sonya Mantell from East Meadow High School. Congratulations are also extended to the students who were named an AP Scholar with Honor. These students received an average grade of 3.25 on all AP exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. From W.T. Clarke High School, these students are: Angela Carey, Alexander Cavanaugh, Kevin Chae, Christina Collado, Anna Cronin, Jason Dunleavy, Alexander Evangelatos, Gabrielle Hickey, Christina Johnson, Bryon Koff, Alexandra Leonardo, Gregory Look, Jake Louw, Nigina Mathew, Timothy Michel, Matthew Schwartz, Eitan Sheena, Daniel Wang and Tyler Yee. From East Meadow High School, the students are: Pooja Amin, Jigar Gosalia, Alexander Gross, Jagroop Hothi, Ariana Jimenez, Shujat Khan, Han Sung Kim, Louis Pollenz, Brandon Price, Shamoon Rizvi, Ajin Sam, Danielle Ullo and Anson Wang. The district also acknowledges the students who were named AP Scholars, granted to those who scored an average grade of 3 or higher on three or more exams. From W.T. Clarke High School, they are: Chris Abanavas, Samantha Burd, Michael Chu, Melanie Garces, Brian Green, Stefanie Kaufman, Tevin Kim, Bianca Larenas, Patricia Luecken, Eric Rivera, Monica Rosenberg, Nadia Seerattan and Nicole Wahlig. The AP Scholars from East Meadow High School are: Tharshana Chandrakumar, Jacob Goodman, Sarah Hwang, Hyun Lee, Kristi Nowak, Tiffany Oommen, Akash Shetye, Alexa Spieler, Alvin Sumigcay, Harrison Tighe, Jaclyn Tortora, Nicole Zitzmann and Harrison Zucker. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8838 Wed, 23 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT One hundred Woodland Middle School students are actively involved in research through the school’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program. The program is a combined effort of science research teacher Douglas Bange, math teacher Eileen Lewner and chairperson of science and math Maureen Vella. A number of projects will be entered into the Long Island Math Fair, the Long Island Science Congress and the Long Island Science and Engineering Fair. “This innovative program allows students interested in math or science to expand their knowledge and interest in STEM’s research opportunities,” Mr. Bange explained. The science and math research projects are innovative and technical in nature. Eighth-grade researchers Tom Botman, Yousef Noureldeen and Edward Park are examining how a variety of lights affect plant growth as compared to normal sunlight conditions. Jason Steiner and Aarij Zubair are building a model of a fractal, a geometric pattern generated by successive subdivisions, and examining how math and science components can be utilized to predict trends on Wall Street. Meanwhile, Nicholas Caprino, Joshua Cassinera and Joseph Matchekosky are examining the physics and mathematics of football and baseball and studying ways in which helmets can be made more effectively to prevent concussions. Ms. Vella also explained that an art component has recently been added to the STEM program. Two students, Danitza Leon and Lauren Schiffer, are researching how mathematics and physics are related to music. With a jump rope, dominoes, a toy slinky and water glasses, the girls are performing a duet to demonstrate how different types of waves are related to sounds and to illustrate the relationship between music, mathematics and physics. “The students are extremely fortunate to have the opportunities provided by the STEM program,” Ms. Vella stated. “As we grow the program, many of our students have been extremely successful in the various competitions and have taken their interests to the high school.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8839 Wed, 23 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Sixth-grade students at W.T. Clarke Middle School have been learning how to effectively write a biography. Through this literary unit, the students examined a variety of biographies about Mark Zuckerberg and Steve Jobs and learned about the writing form’s textual structures and features. The biography study concluded with the writing of a fellow classmate’s biography. Each student generated open-ended questions, staged an interview and wrote an article based on the information provided by his or her subject. In each classroom, the students celebrated their work by placing their writing in the Biography Museum. The completed works were posted on the walls of each classroom and viewed by the students, much like a museum. The activity also included small-group critique sessions where students discussed how they would write their biography differently and what strategies were the most helpful to them during the writing process. “This activity not only helped the students master a particular genre of writing, it also allowed them an opportunity to get to know each other better,” teacher Patricia Hartman stated. Sixth-grade student Jennifer Daly explained that she enjoyed the assignment and learned that she had common interests with her classmates. “I learned about other classmates by reading their biographies,” Jennifer said. “This unit also helped me to become a more mature writer.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8771 Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT East Meadow seventh-grade students at Woodland Middle School participated in a special Character Education/Human Diversity workshop featuring educational consultant and retired Suffolk County police officer Paul D. Failla. Mr. Failla’s workshop is based on his philosophy that creating a positive social climate in homes and schools can have a huge life impact. During a span of three periods, the seventh-graders listened to Mr. Failla’s humorous and dramatic soliloquys, which emphasized his message that societal prejudice and its harmful consequences are unacceptable. Topics such as role models, respect, diversity, values, dignity, leadership, profiling, racism, ridicule and destructive decisions were also discussed. “All bullying is caused by ignorance and lack of self-esteem,” Mr. Failla told the students. “The scars from the words never truly heal.” After the assembly, the students took additional time to reflect on the information covered in the assembly. Each student was then instructed to write a letter detailing what he or she most gained from Mr. Failla’s message. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8772 Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to East Meadow School District’s Intel Semifinalist Anson Wang! Anson’s project titled “Regulation of Memory Protein PKMzeta in Alzheimer’s Disease” studied the levels of PKMzeta in the brain tissue of deceased subjects who previously suffered from Alzheimer's Disease in comparison to those who died of natural causes. The district wishes Anson luck as he awaits for an announcement naming the finalists in the National Intel Science Talent Search. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8693 Mon, 14 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The East Meadow School District is pleased to announce that sophomore Anusha Syed has been chosen to represent the district at the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Conference this spring. This forum brings together tomorrow’s leaders with today’s recognized pioneers in business, government, education and other various professions to discuss present and future issues. Anusha was selected through a rigorous process which included an evaluation by a panel of faculty, students and administrators who were impressed with her poise, confidence and dedication to charitable and civic activities. In addition to being a superb fundraiser and outstanding citizen, Anusha is also a seasoned orator. She has been invited to participate in and host a variety of community events, the most memorable being the emcee for the 2010 Leadership Breakfast hosted by Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano. It is no surprise that Anusha aspires to holding a political office. In the meantime, the East Meadow School District is proud to have this civic-minded young woman represent the district at the HOBY Leadership Conference. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8615 Wed, 09 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The holiday spirit was strong at Woodland Middle School in the East Meadow School District as sixth-grade students joined John Theissen, executive director and founder of the John Theissen Children’s Foundation, in collecting toys for needy children. During his visit to Woodland, Mr. Theissen explained the importance of his cause and the reasons behind the development of this significant community resource. “Donations are down 35 percent this year, so I am happy that you are helping the foundation fill this need during the holiday season,” Mr. Theissen told the students. Since its inception in 1992, the John Theissen Children’s Foundation has collected over 550,000 new toys for sick and underprivileged children in 185 hospitals and child care facilities throughout Long Island. The foundation also donates therapeutic and recreational equipment, fulfills wishes and helps families with medical expenses. Teacher Barbara Rooney, who assisted teachers Jana Alfarone, Gail Larsen and Brenda Marino with the student toy drive, reminded the students that many more children on Long Island are in need after Superstorm Sandy. “Sometimes we get so caught up in our own lives, we forget that others need help,” she said to students. “Let’s make this a successful toy drive for the children on Long Island.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8616 Wed, 09 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Student Kevin Cheng is the winner of Meadowbrook Elementary School’s second annual spelling bee. The winning word was “haughtiness,” and now the fifth-grader will advance to the regional spelling bee at Hofstra University. The second-place winner was Yuktha Chiguripati, also a fifth-grade student. Meadowbrook’s spelling bee was a preliminary contest for fourth- and fifth-grade students in conjunction with the Scripps National Spelling Bee near Washington, D.C. School spelling bee coordinator Valerie Kasper explained that the contestants studied vocabulary words from the Merriam-Webster Dictionary and materials provided by the E.W. Scripps Company. Kevin attributes his success in the school contest to “studying a lot.” Yuktha credits her spelling abilities to her family, stating, “My mother helped me with every word.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8617 Wed, 09 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Click here to view the message http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8538 Tue, 25 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Meadow High School Theatre Guild received rave reviews for its weekend presentation of “Daddy’s Girl,” a comedy written by Gary Ray Stapp. The 13-member cast took the stage in three separate performances for the East Meadow community from December 13th through the 15th, drawing laughter from the play’s comedic chaos and zany characters. In “Daddy’s Girl,” the audience is introduced to Maudie’s Diner proprietor Benard Muloovy (played by Jason Toledano), whose deceased wife Maudie (played by Rachel Steiner) takes up residence as a talking portrait on the diner’s wall. She enlists the services of an angel named Michael to reunite Benard with their long-lost daughter, Elizabeth. The chaos begins as Michael delivers two Elizabeths, and Benard must decide which woman is his daughter. During the production, the audience is also introduced to a host of amusing individuals, including a Ph.D student with problems communicating, an elderly duo, a “motorcycle mama,” and Darlynn, a woman who has spent 25 years trying to attract Benard’s attention. Full of twists and surprises, East Meadow’s production of “Daddy’s Girl” will be remembered for many years to come. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8437 Fri, 21 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT At the November Board of Education meeting, select students from Woodland and W.T. Clarke middle schools were honored as Terrific Kids for the months of September, October, and November. Through the program sponsored by the East Meadow Kiwanis, students are recognized for their character, citizenship and perseverance. Each of the district’s Terrific Kids was presented with a certificate of achievement, presented by Superintendent of Schools Louis R. DeAngelo and East Meadow Kiwanis President Debbie Kirsh. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8438 Fri, 21 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Fourth-grade students at Barnum Woods Elementary School were immersed in Native American culture and traditions as they participated in a two-day program called “Journeys into Native American Territory.” Educators Uaian Bruno and Maddi Cheers run the popular traveling museum that highlights the tributes, cultures and customs of the Eastern Woodland and coastline native people. The goal of the program is to help dispel stereotypes about these first Americans and to discuss who they are today and what their hopes are for the future. The students began their journey by watching a short documentary about traditional culture, survival, customs and first encounters with the Europeans. Cheers explained that Native Americans judge others by what they give away to others, and that there are actually 13 thanksgiving celebrations a year. Working together is also an important prescription for survival, she told the students. “It took a whole community of people for the Native Americans to survive,” she remarked. The students were then broken up into groups to attend workshops that focused on Native American games, stories and artifacts. Cheers described the history of lacrosse and demonstrated how the natives created games that later trained them for life. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8270 Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT As you are aware, the recent storm necessitated that our schools be closed for a significant number of days. In order to regain valuable instructional time and in order to preserve state aid levels to our district, the 2012-2013 school calendar has been revised. Tuesday, February 19th, Wednesday, February 20th, Thursday February 21st and Friday, February 22nd will now be regular school days for ALL students and staff. Monday, June 24th and Tuesday, June 25th will now be Superintendent's Conference/Staff development days for professional staff ONLY. Please be informed that should inclement weather necessitate additional school closings, the 2012- 2013 school calendar may need to be further revised. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8374 Wed, 05 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Nassau County Legislator Norma L. Gonsalves, the county legislature’s acting presiding officer, recently attended the unveiling of a mural created by the Woodland Middle School Art Club under the direction of art teacher John Healy. The mural will be dedicated on Dec. 8 at a public meeting of the Legislature and will hang in the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building in Mineola. The mural’s theme, “One Person, One Vote,” depicts the grand façade of the Legislature’s county seat, a large American flag, and the Nassau County Legislature seal. Dr. Healy explained that in order to create the mural, a photo of the building was projected onto a canvas and then traced and painted by the student-artists. “I am so proud of these exceptionally talented students,” Dr. Healy stated. “I hope that everyone who visits the Nassau County Legislature will enjoy this mural for years to come.” For 20 years, Dr. Healy’s Art Club students have participated in this program. Recent murals created by students are currently featured at the Nassau Educators Federal Credit Union and the Nassau County Firefighter’s Museum, housed in the Cradle of Aviation Museum. After the dedication of the most current mural, the Art Club students will start work on a painting for the American Theater Dance Workshop, a dance repertory company in New Hyde Park. Legislator Gonsalves congratulated the art students on their vision and design. “As a former Woodland Middle School teacher, it was great to see the wonderful talents of these students,” she stated. “I look forward to seeing the mural hang in the building of the Nassau County Legislature for many years.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8087 Tue, 04 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT The W.T. Clarke Middle school seventh-grade Honors Science Research Program hosted a panel of residents, government officials, and local industry and non-profit representatives to discuss issues facing the Long Island community. Under the direction of English teacher Cindy Dale and science teachers Donna Delvecchio and Wendy Wansor, the panel provided the 65 honor students the opportunity to hear firsthand about health and safety problems and issues impacting the community and world at large. “The panelists opened up the students’ minds, demonstrating a variety of innovative work and problems their organizations deal with in our community each day,” Assistant Principal Linda Lynch commented. Moving forward, the students will work in small teams to identify, test and propose a solution to a problem based on the panel discussion. The students will then enter their research projects in the Christopher Columbus Awards competition, a national STEM contest now in its 17th year. The program challenges students to identify a problem in their community and to apply the scientific method to create an innovative solution to the problem. Last school year, W.T. Clarke Middle School fielded three teams that reached the semifinal round. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8089 Tue, 04 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8072 Mon, 03 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Due to the disruption of school created by "Sandy", the District Art Show has been postponed and will be rescheduled in the near future. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7961 Tue, 27 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT More than 250 senior citizens gathered at East Meadow High School for the 32nd annual Key Club and Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Thanksgiving Dinner. Under the supervision of the East Meadow Kiwanis, students prepared and served the meal, as well as provided live entertainment for the seniors. Conducted by director Stephen Engle, the East Meadow High School Jazz Ensemble played a number of big band swing tunes, including a lively rendition of Glenn Miller’s “In The Mood,” before the meal was served. High school student Kristina Shafranski sang the National Anthem and student Katie Oppido performed a vocal solo as part of the show. The meal was prepared earlier in the day by Kiwanis chefs and co-chairpersons Mitchell Allen, Dr. Frank Saracino, Mitchell Skoller, and Joan Saracino. Outside of the kitchen, student volunteers worked through the morning to transform the gym into a festive dining hall with decorative table settings. Other East Meadow student groups involved in bringing the event to fruition included the Woodland and W.T. Clarke Middle Schools’ Builders Clubs and Bowling Green Elementary School’s K-Kids. As dessert was served, Key Club President Ola Krol and FBLA Co-Presidents Alison Furman and Anxhela Mile thanked the seniors for attending and wished them all a happy and healthy holiday season. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7987 Tue, 27 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Meadow students in Lisa Molloy and Kristi DeLace’s third-grade classes at Parkway Elementary School learned about the democratic process in a social studies unit, which focused on the electoral versus the popular vote, the definition of a delegate and the process by which adults cast official ballots. Each student was also assigned a state and asked to research the number of delegates and points of interest to be included on a colorful poster. The third graders newly acquired knowledge was then applied to the election of the class representatives during a mock election. Brian Surless and Stephanie Giles, the Republican candidates, were seeking the position of class president and vice president against Democratic candidates Daniel Burnside and Jake Barker. Prior to Election Day, the candidates delivered speeches to their peers and participated in a debate on topics including anti-bullying, school lunches, academic assessments and school beautification. The democratic process was then put into practice as each student delegate held up his or her state poster and proclaimed their state’s number of electoral votes and the Democratic or Republican candidate who would receive their vote. With a blue or red crayon, the delegate then colored in his or her state on a large map placed on the white board. The students were also asked to cast their ballots in a popular vote. “Remember to vote for who you think is best for the class,” Ms. Molloy told the students. “It’s a candidate’s ideas that are important.” Republicans Brian Surless and running mate Stephanie Giles were elected President and Vice President of their class, having acquired 321 electoral votes, while Democrats Daniel Burnside and Jake Barker received 217 electoral votes. The two winners also received a 22-16 victory in the popular vote. Not only did the class election teach students about the democratic process, it also honed their research and geography skills. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7914 Sun, 25 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Neil Simon’s popular Broadway and television hit “The Odd Couple” was presented at W.T. Clarke High School in the East Meadow School District. Under the direction of teacher Mark Kenny, the eight-member cast entertained audiences with comedic wit true to the original 1965 stage production. In “The Odd Couple,” two mismatched roommates come together after the separation of news writer Florence Unger from her husband. The neat and uptight Unger, played by Ashley Fusco, turns the home life of otherwise slovenly and easygoing Olive Madison, portrayed by April Todaro, into a whirlwind. Throughout the production, the “friends and card buddies,” played by Angela Carey, Maggie Carter, Anna Cronin and Brittney Seck, treated the audience to comedic quips. Complications presented by a dinner date with the Costazuela Brothers, played by Javier Lopez and Riley Walsh, provided additional humor. In preparation for the performances, Mr. Kenny guided the cast through the rigors of rehearsal in the aftermath of “Sandy.” With 10 days of official rehearsal time lost to the storm, the actors and stage crew did not miss a beat. “The actors should be congratulated for their work without my direction, even on days off, while they met in the homes of cast mates who had power to practice their lines,” Mr. Kenny stated. “Their good humor through all of this makes this play a true comedy.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7915 Sun, 25 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The ACCESS workshop scheduled for Wednesday, November 28, 2012, has been cancelled. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7780 Wed, 14 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Due to the interruption of school during the past two weeks, the first quarter marking period has been extended for all secondary students (grades 6-12) to Friday, November 16, 2012. Report cards will be mailed home on or about November 27, 2012. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7759 Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students, staff, administrators and members of the community recently gathered at W.T. Clarke and East Meadow high schools for their annual homecoming celebrations. To kick off each weekend, students at the schools decorated building hallways with spirit posters and streamers to showcase school pride. At W.T. Clarke High School, students gathered in the gymnasium for a pep rally the afternoon prior to the homecoming football game to ignite Ram spirit. Spirit was also on full display at East Meadow High School where students proudly wore their school colors. Spurred on by their cheerleaders, the W.T. Clarke Rams took on Mineola in their homecoming game. During halftime, the homecoming parade made its way onto the field, led by the W.T. Clarke High School Marching Band and Color Guard. Local politicians, district administrators and members of the Board of Education accompanied the colorful class floats onto the field, each decorated with the theme of “video game apps.” Recognized during the procession were Homecoming King and Queen Kevin Chae and Shelby Frisa, who rode onto the field in a convertible to the delight of the community. Other members of the homecoming court included: Duke and Duchess Aaron Dawson and Ava Goncalves, Count and Countess Tristan Nagel and Taylor Rosenking, and Prince and Princess Fabio Rivera and Alexandra Stokum. Throughout game time, participants mingled in front of a variety of booths and caught up on news about the new school year. The crowd was delighted with a Ram home victory by a score of 27-13. For East Meadow High School’s homecoming celebration, the school hosted a parade down Carman Avenue which included floats with the theme “superheroes.” In addition, members of the homecoming court, cheerleaders and the marching band entertained the crowd. Following the parade, senior members of the high school chorus sang an a capella version of “The Star-Spangled Banner” to kickoff the football game between the East Meadow Jets and Massapequa Chiefs. During the halftime celebration, the community enjoyed performances by the cheerleaders, the Rockettes and the Jets Marching Band. Seniors David Carey and Danielle Jean were crowned homecoming king and queen and members of the court were announced and congratulated by the administration. The homecoming court included Dennis Caramante, Emily Fitzsimmons, Julian Paykert, Michael Petti, Carly Salzman, Megan Spindell, and Jaclyn Tortora. Unfortunately, the Jets fell to the Chief by a score of 38-29. Each high school community will remember homecoming day as one filled with spirit and pride. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7747 Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Meadow School District, in partnership with The FREE Players, presented two enthusiastic and fun-filled performances of the award-winning Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Jr. at East Meadow High School on Oct. 20 and 21. The FREE Players are a talented group of individuals with developmental disabilities who have brought their enthusiasm to the stage for the past 15 years. The acting troupe, whose cast includes alumni of the district, has partnered with the East Meadow school community for several years. District administrators, Board of Education trustees, members of SEPTA (Special Education PTA) and community members attended both weekend performances. Net proceeds from the performances benefited both The FREE Players and East Meadow School District’s SEPTA and SERCL. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7749 Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Members of the Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) Club at Woodland Middle School in the East Meadow School District showed their commitment to a drug-free life by tying red ribbons on the school’s trees with Hempstead Town Councilman Gary Hudes. Prior to the activity, Mr. Hudes spoke to the students about the projects the Town of Hempstead is working on for the community. He also told students that participating in a club whose mission is to assist others – like SADD – is important. “You get more out of a club that helps others,” he remarked. After the students tied red ribbons on the trees, they gathered on the school’s front walkway and signed a pledge to lead a healthy and drug-free lifestyle. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7750 Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT In celebration of Red Ribbon Week, McVey Elementary School students, accompanied by faculty and parents, pledged to keep a healthy balance between mind and body by participating in the school’s annual one-mile Wellness Walk around the neighborhood. The event was attended by Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray and Islanders mascot Sparky, who energized the students and reminded them that having a healthy mind and body is an important asset in life. “We have been teaching McVey students how to make good choices and keep a healthy body that is drug-free,” stated PTA Wellness Committee member and walk organizer Heidi D’Amico. “This activity is a culmination of those lessons learned during Red Ribbon Week.” Under the direction of music teacher Jessica Bessel, the school’s band added a celebratory tone to the occasion with several musical selections. Each of the classes designed and decorated colorful posters and banners and dressed in red to symbolize the lessons they had learned during the week’s various assemblies. Upon returning to the building, the students gathered on the front sidewalk and recited pledges for a drug-free school and community. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7751 Mon, 12 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT In celebration of Red Ribbon Week, students at Meadowbrook Elementary School gathered for a Unity Walk around school grounds to reinforce the importance of a healthy and drug-free lifestyle. Accompanied by their teachers and staff, the students wore neon- colored attire to symbolize their bright drug-free futures and chanted, “Stop. Look. We’re the Brook, and we say no to drugs” as they followed in a long line around the school grounds. For the past week, students have attended a myriad of assemblies that emphasized a healthy lifestyle and supported the message of Red Ribbon Week. Students in each class also had the opportunity to sign a pledge for a drug-free life. After the walk, the students and faculty gathered in front of the school for a message from Assistant Principal Gail Gallucci and social worker and Unity Walk organizer Margherita Diglio. “We all want a bright future and need to make healthy choices for ourselves,” Ms. Gallucci told the students. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7752 Mon, 12 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Meadow School District Art Department is hosting a High School Art Portfolio Night on Monday, October 29th at 7:00 p.m. The event will take place in the East Meadow High School Little Theater and is open to all students in grades 9-12 and their families. This informational session is appropriate for anyone considering attending Art school and pursuing a career in the visual arts. The presentation will include information pertaining to selecting a college, portfolio preparation, scholarships and will feature East Meadow alumni who will be available to answer questions. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7332 Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The administration and teaching staff in the East Meadow School District are committed to enhancing student achievement and maintaining academic gains in reading. At Parkway Elementary School, approximately 90 students in grades 1-5 participated in the school’s summer reading program to become better readers and keep the learning momentum alive during the summer months. These students were then invited to a special bagel breakfast in mid-October, where they received a certificate for their participation. “It is not always easy to do extra work over the summer,” Parkway Principal Jamie Mack told the students. ”I am proud of all of you for reading beyond what is expected of you in school.” Depending on their grade level, participants chose to read between three and five books from the suggested reading list and completed a Bookworm Log, which they brought back to school this fall. Students who decided to go the extra mile also completed a project for one of their books. Projects included cartoon strips, poems, book jacket designs, 3-D scenery, dioramas, story mobiles and much more. The creations were displayed in the hallway for parents to view on Meet the Teacher Night. As part of the reading program, students were also asked to send the school a postcard from their summer travels, as a way to practice their writing skills. Students at Parkway sent hand-written cards from such places as Florida, Maine, California and Vermont, among other destinations across the country. The cards are currently displayed on a bulletin board in the school’s entranceway. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7334 Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Senior College Planning Night was held at W. T. Clarke High School in early October with the goal of informing students and parents of the best college application strategies. This highly informative presentation featured welcoming remarks by Principal Timothy Voels, followed by a discussion led by the school’s guidance counselors. Guidance counselor Susan O’Connor identified shortcuts to navigating the high school guidance website, while fellow counselor Joan DeNigris urged students and parents to be organized throughout the process. In addition, guidance counselor Kara McMahon discussed the value of information requested or required by colleges and universities, including the importance of grade-point average, rigor of courses, transcripts, SAT scores, and strength of essays. Finally, guidance counselor William Palmer addressed the risks of social media with those in attendance, as well techniques for building a strong resume. Principal Voels and the guidance staff then answered questions from parents and students, which touched upon a wide array of subjects concerning college planning. It was noted that local and regional colleges, including LIU Post, Molloy, NYIT, Hofstra, St. Johns, and Adelphi, will visit both W.T. Clarke and East Meadow high schools during three mini-college fairs this fall. Two upcoming financial aid workshops are also being offered on November 14, 2012 at East Meadow High School and on January 23, 2013 at W.T. Clarke High School. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7335 Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT On September 17, fifth-grade students throughout McVey Elementary School celebrated one of the most important events in our nation’s history, the drafting of the Constitution. On this day, teachers prepared an array of activities to study this historic event, including each classroom’s drafting of a constitution. Constitution Day commemorates the signing of the Constitution on Sept. 17, 1787, and recognizes all who have become citizens, whether by birth or by naturalization. Fifth-grade students are currently studying the end of the Revolutionary War, the Articles of the Confederacy, and the formation of government, as well as the Constitution and its Preamble and Bill of Rights. “The students have also been involved in their class elections, so they are really living this lesson,” teacher Joe Targove stated. In Mr. Targove’s class, the students created a preamble and bill of rights for Room 109 that symbolizes respect and dignity for their classroom peers. The students agreed to not only try their best and pay attention, but to not judge their classmates by the color of their skin or country of origin and to utilize positive words in the classroom. In their preamble, the students also included language about establishing a “bully-free environment,” providing a helping hand and being helpful to one another. After the classroom constitution was edited, each student in the class signed their name to symbolize the 39 men who signed the U.S. Constitution. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7031 Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Third- and fourth-grade students at East Meadow’s Parkway Elementary School learned important lessons about fire safety and how to safely escape a house or building fire during a visit from the Wantagh Fire Department. During an assembly, firefighters briefed the students on how to “stop, drop and roll.” They also discussed home escape plans, fire detectors and school fire drills. “It is important for all of you to go home and discuss an escape plan with your families,” urged firefighter David Goetz. The most exciting part of the event was a visit to the fire department’s smoke house, which is a trailer designed to resemble a bedroom. Artificial dense smoke permeated the air as an alarm buzzed loudly to indicate a house fire. A firefighter then directed each student to roll out of bed, scoot towards the door and feel for heat, push the window open, scream three times for help, and wait for assistance through the window. A firefighter was stationed on the outside to help each student with his or her escape. The East Meadow School District would like to thank the Wantagh Fire Department for their time in teaching students valuable safety skills. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7032 Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT It was an evening of supervised fun as students from both W.T. Clarke and Woodland middle schools joined their friends for the schools’ first Rec Nights of the year. Offered through the Creative Arts Program of East Meadow, students in grades 6-8 spent two hours of fun-filled activity in their respective schools. Some of the stations included basketball and soccer, music and dancing with a DJ, assorted games, arts and crafts, video games and weight room exercises. It was the perfect way for students to become reacquainted with old friends and to make new friends in a safe environment. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7046 Sun, 30 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Members of the W.T. Clarke High School Marching Band attended a clinic during the first week of the 2012-2013 school year to prepare for performances at school games and parades. Band director Kevin Scully explained that the returning band members refreshed their skills, while freshmen and other new members in attendance learned spacing and how to march in formation. The clinic was also an opportunity for the students to practice music to be performed in upcoming Columbus Day parades on Long Island and New York City. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6978 Tue, 25 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6935 Sun, 23 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT As East Meadow elementary students filed into their respective schools during the opening of the 2012-2013 school year, kindergartners entered their classrooms with parents on hand for their school’s annual kindergarten orientation. At Meadowbrook Elementary School, teachers personally welcomed the students at the door and directed them to their assigned seats. After the students settled in and met their classmates, Principal Susan Hyde and kindergarten teacher Maria Balsamo met with parents and discussed policies and procedures. Ms. Hyde also assured the parents that their students would be provided with a well-rounded program that will prepare them for first grade. “We have a rigorous academic program that addresses the whole child,” Ms. Hyde stated. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6945 Sun, 23 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT East Meadow students at W.T. Clarke Middle School commemorated September 11, also referred to as Patriot Day, with reflections on hopes and dreams for the future. The morning commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of “God Bless America.” During social studies classes, each student wrote a reflection and wishes for a better world on an index card. The index cards were then taken to the school’s Reflection Garden and placed in a box decorated with patriotic colors. After the reflections were deposited, the students received a pin to commemorate this historical day. Principal Stacy Breslin explained that the Reflection Garden, which was originally created as a memorial for two former colleagues who passed away, has also become an alcove where students and teachers can come to reflect or spend quiet time. Teacher Debra Marks worked diligently over the summer to prepare the Reflection Garden for the fall. She also secured donations of plantings and mulch from Zainos Nursery and benches from Lowe’s of Westbury. “This is a wonderful place for teachers to bring their class for a period of quiet reading, or for staff and students to take a moment to reflect during their day,” Ms. Breslin stated. The students’ reflections were heartwarming and included the following hopes for the future: “I hope that the world learns to accept other cultures and religions.” “I hope that we can have peace and stop fighting and that soldiers can stop fighting in wars.” “I hope that we don’t get attacked again, and that police and firefighters don’t have to continue to risk their lives.” “I wish for no more wars, an end to poverty and world peace.” “I hope we can all move on.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6894 Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT The relaxing days of summer quickly became faded memories as students throughout the East Meadow School District boarded bright yellow school buses on their way to school on September 5 for the start of the 2012-2013 academic year. Greeted by administrators and teachers, the students safely arrived at their respective buildings, eager to begin learning. It was a smooth and productive opening at each of the district’s nine schools. It was also a day for students to become reacquainted with friends and to start a routine that accompanies each school year. A warm welcome is extended to the school community as the students begin another year of academic success and growth. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6763 Thu, 06 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Prior to the first week of the 2012-2013 school year, East Meadow School District administrators gave a warm welcome to more than 20 new teachers who gathered at the Leon J. Campo Salisbury Center for the annual New Teacher Orientation. The forum was not only an excellent way for new staff to become acquainted with one another, but also an opportunity for them to meet administrators and become familiar with district policies and procedures. During the orientation, the teachers also boarded a school bus to take an official tour of the school district. During his introductory remarks, Assistant Superintendent for Personnel and Administration Anthony Russo stated that he is confident that each new teacher will be a valuable asset to the fine academic tradition of the East Meadow School District. Superintendent Louis R. DeAngelo also encouraged the teachers to ask questions and reach out for help when needed. “I am glad you have chosen East Meadow to do your life’s work,” Mr. DeAngelo stated. “We are here to help you grow and move forward as we all work together to provide the best for our East Meadow students.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6719 Mon, 03 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT The halls of East Meadow High School resonated with the sound of music this summer as hundreds of students from 20 Nassau County school districts participated in the district’s annual Summer Music Program. During the five-week program, beginner, intermediate and advanced-level student-musicians headed to school in the mornings to hone their music skills and techniques in preparation for the fall. Summer Music Program Director Joel Levy explained that the program, which has been hosted for the past 50 years, provides East Meadow School District students and students from surrounding districts in grades 4-12 with the opportunity to keep up their skills. “This program helps the students to remain motivated for the upcoming school year, and it fosters an appreciation and love for music,” Mr. Levy stated. The beginner instrumental program is designed for students who have never played an instrument and focuses on the fundamentals of music. Mr. Levy explained that these beginners receive a strong foundation, which will take them into the fall and beyond as they continue in their respective music programs. At the end of each session, participants have the opportunity to sing in the chorus, as well. During the intermediate and advanced band/orchestra programs, the students rehearse for most of the morning and then have the opportunity to participate in the jazz ensemble, show chorus or chamber orchestra. This is also the first year that the program has offered a percussion ensemble. The session ends with each student participating in one of the program’s many concerts for parents and friends, which showcase the new skills that have been acquired over the summer. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6541 Thu, 02 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT In addition to traditional summer activities, many East Meadow School District students are honing their literacy skills during the district’s annual Summer Learning Program. Approximately 300 students, recommended by their classroom teachers, attend the morning program at Bowling Green Elementary School each weekday to reinforce their reading and writing skills. There are also pull-out lessons for those students who need additional help with mathematics. “This program has been a staple in the East Meadow community for many years,” Bowling Green Elementary School Assistant Principal Frank Lukasik stated. “The program helps students stay on track and prevents any summer regression of skills. It’s designed to help bridge the learning gap between July and September.” An integral part of the Summer Learning Program is the pre-kindergarten program. Students entering kindergarten in the fall attend classes that prepare them for the school year by teaching literacy and readiness skills. An added bonus to the pre-kindergarten program, Mr. Lukasik noted, is that it develops familiarity with the school setting and provides the opportunity to make new friends prior to the school year. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6520 Thu, 26 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT During the July 5 Board of Education meeting, East Meadow School District trustees and administrators reorganized for the start of the 2012-2013 school year. Trustee Joseph Parisi was re-elected to the seat of Board President and Walter Skinner was re-elected as Vice President. Both Mr. Parisi and Mr. Skinner were sworn into office by District Clerk Joan Franciotti, who was also reappointed for the 2012-2013 school year. In addition, trustees Brian O’Flaherty and Walter Skinner were sworn into office for additional three-year terms by Ms. Franciotti. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6435 Sun, 08 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students from East Meadow High School and W.T. Clarke High School traveled to Saratoga Springs, N.Y. for the Olympics of the Visual Arts, an exciting and challenging statewide competition. Chaperoned by their advisors, Joanna Greenberg and Shari Zimmerman and art teachers Danielle Sessa and James Parisi, the group found the experience to be an extremely valuable and inspiring one. Olympics of the Visual Arts was founded by the New York State Art Teachers Association, which views the visual arts as a discipline equal to other disciplines that challenge and stimulate our youth. The organization believes that creativity and creative problem solving in the visual arts is vital to a full and enriched life in our technological and scientific society. All entrants were required to exhibit a portfolio with their long-term solutions, providing evidence on how they used historical references, examples of problem-solving, working sketches, and reflections. Students were also asked to complete a spontaneous problem, which they created while at the competition. Over 30 school districts from across New York State participated in the event. East Meadow School District had seven teams participating. These students worked hard on their projects since October and made East Meadow proud by responsibly and creatively representing their school. This year they participated in the Illustration, Painting, Drawing, Fashion, Architecture, Sculpture and Industrial Design groups. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6411 Fri, 15 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4702 Thu, 14 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The district recently held its annual Beach Day for QUEST students at Jones Beach. QUEST students and parents from Barnum Woods, Bowling Green, McVey, Meadowbrook, and Parkway Elementary Schools, along with their QUEST teachers, were in attendance. This annual event is an opportunity for students to extend their learning beyond the classroom and to have fun while doing it. Some of the day’s workshops included marine biology lessons through the Nassau BOCES Outdoor Education Program, as well as lessons with themes such as a pirate workshop, the spoken word, origami, mixed media, music of the shore, and birds of the sea and shore. All of the students, parents, and teachers had a wonderful time! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6145 Mon, 11 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The school round of the Junior Achievement of New York (JANY) Business Plan Competition took place at W.T. Clarke High School May 17. Of the six teams competing for the right to advance to the semifinals at Columbia University, team Deoderaser, comprised of Ben King, Jennifer Raichel, Eric Ratner and Demi Shanahan, placed first. Deoderaser is a product that is used to wipe away embarrassing deodorant marks on clothing. On May 24, Team Deoderaser competed at the semifinals at Columbia and advanced with five other teams to the final round on June 1, held at NASDAQ. Congratulations to the Deoderaser team and their teacher/advisor Joseph Pavia for capturing third place in the 2012 JANY Business Plan Contest. Each student received $1,000 and rang the closing bell at NASDAQ on Friday, June 1. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6146 Mon, 11 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Fifth-grade students at Meadowbrook Elementary School, under the supervision of teachers Emily Caroddo, Denise Henning and Valerie Kasper, worked on their oral presentation skills throughout the school year. Their hard work was evidenced by a culminating project, a series of puppetry skits entitled “Second Step Theater.” The student-run show incorporated first-grade Second Step skills such as identifying others’ feelings, interrupting politely and impolitely, how to handle wanting something that belongs to someone else, similarities and differences, and dealing with name calling and teasing. These skills became the topics for the skits, which the fifth-graders performed for the first-grade students. The fifth-graders wrote their own scripts, created storyboards and fashioned puppets with the help of Meadowbrook art teacher Jeanette Ippolito. After performing their skits, they prompted response from their younger peers with questions such as, “What did you learn today?” “What do you think the problem is?” and “How do you stop interrupting?” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6149 Mon, 11 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT At the May 31, 2012 Board of Education Meeting, select students at Woodland and W.T. Clarke Middle Schools were honored for their academic achievements and/or citizenship for the months of March, April, May, and June. Each of the district’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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6140 Sun, 10 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Erin Floody, a seventh-grade student at Woodland Middle School was named the 2012 grand prize winner in the Long Island Family and Consumer Sciences “Sew to Serve” Challenge. Home and career skills students from Long Island entered the contest, which emphasized the use of sewing skills they learned in class for service-learning projects. Through service-learning, students learn skills by actively participating in service experiences that meet community needs. With the guidance of her home and career skills teacher, Susan Carlsen, Erin entered her sewing project into the competition, along with a written description and directions for completing the project. Her project was to sew and decorate a drawstring bag to hold books for pediatric patients who are hospitalized. Erin also included a reflection about the service experience in which she expressed a deep personal understanding of the importance of community service and the desire to use her time and talents to serve again. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6068 Tue, 05 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Barnum Woods Elementary School held its annual “Family Fun Night,” sponsored by the school’s PTA. Family members were invited to spend the sports-themed evening with their children playing bingo, participating in raffles, and winning various prizes. Many of the Barnum Woods staff and PTA members were on hand to assist students on all grade levels. The evening offered the students a fun way to spend time with their families and to reconnect with classmates after school hours. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6069 Tue, 05 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT W.T. Clarke Middle School celebrated its 11th Annual Penny Harvest Award Presentation Assembly by presenting various organizations with donations that were made possible by the Clarke students and teachers, under the guidance of teacher/advisor Debbie Marks. This year’s grand total was 339.6 pounds of coins, or $3,517.07, raising the amount of coins collected over the past eleven years to $41,327.93. Some of the organizations and groups that received donations were ALS Association, Alzheimer’s Foundation, American Heart Association, A.S.P.C.A., Autism Speaks, Clarke Giving Tree, DKMS Bone Marrow Research, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, and many more worthy programs. The students and faculty at Clarke truly live up to their school slogan, “Clarke Cares,” by continuing to demonstrate compassion, collaboration, and empathy! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5968 Tue, 29 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Third-grade students in Carrie Atchison’s class at Meadowbrook Elementary School in the East Meadow Union Free School District took a trip to Salisbury Senior Center in Westbury to participate in a unique craft project in preparation for Memorial Day. Using plastic sandwich bags, a piece of wire, ribbons, and patriotic stickers, each student teamed up with a senior to fashion a one-of-a-kind wreath. Several of the plastic bags were tied around the wire to create a fluffy effect. The wreaths were then decorated with the stickers and red, white, and blue ribbons. After the projects were completed, the students and seniors enjoyed juice and cookies, as well as each other’s companionship. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5806 Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students in sixth through eighth grades at W.T. Clarke Middle School in the East Meadow Union Free School District were treated to a PTA-sponsored event called “Brain Challenge Live,” a television-style game show hosted by Allen Strauss. During the show, students competed in teams to answer challenging questions in two-minute intervals. They also participated in physical challenges that included spelling, math, a hula-hoop contest, and a dance competition. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5807 Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Residents in the East Meadow School District voted to support the 2012-13 budget on May 15, by a vote of 2,033 to 790. Thank you to all residents who participated in this important vote. In addition, Brian O’Flaherty and Walter Skinner were re-elected to the Board of Education. Thank you again to all who participated. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5756 Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT During Holocaust Remembrance Week, East Meadow High School’s EPIC (Encouraging Pride in Israeli Culture) Club held various activities, including an assembly on the Holocaust for ninth through twelfth-grade students in social studies and Holocaust Studies classes. The students, with the assistance of EPIC Club advisor Sherry Lombardo and club president Andrew Hochler, compiled a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation filled with sobering facts and scenes to heighten students’ awareness of this harrowing event in history. In addition, members of the National Art Honor Society created a display to hang in the school’s lobby, entitled “The Art of the Holocaust.” EPIC students also created Holocaust displays, and Holocaust Studies students put together and presented a mini-museum exhibit depicting art of the Holocaust. Senior student and cellist Aya Terki opened the assembly by performing the traditional “Kol Nidrei” (“Oh! Day of God”), accompanied on piano by chorale director Gloria Elliott. The assembly was held in remembrance of not only the six million Jewish victims, but the five million non-Jewish victims as well. Following the presentation, Holocaust survivor Irving (Yitzchak) Wargon, who was introduced by his son Morris (Moshe), gave an account of his experiences during the Holocaust, having been a prisoner for five years, eight months, and eight days. Russian soldiers rescued Mr. Wargon in Czechoslovakia on May 8, 1945. He concluded by stating, “It is my mission to tell the next generation about the Holocaust. Keep this memory alive. Tell them what you saw and what you heard.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5613 Tue, 08 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Meadow School District will hold its annual Budget Vote and Trustee Election on Tuesday, May 15, 2012. Polls will be open during the hours of 7 a.m.- 9 p.m. District polling locations are Barnum Woods Elementary School, Bowling Green Elementary School, McVey Elementary School, Meadowbrook Elementary School, and Parkway Elementary School (please vote at your local elementary school). http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5092 Tue, 08 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT McVey and Parkway Elementary Schools held a family literacy and fun night at Barnes & Noble Booksellers in Carle Place to kick off the annual Parents as Reading Partners (PARP) program. PARP is a national PTA program designed to encourage students to watch less television and read more books. Numerous events took place throughout both evenings, which included storybook readings by administrators and teaching staff, musical performances, scavenger hunts, and raffles. Many thanks to the McVey and Parkway PTAs for making the events a great time for everyone in attendance! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5368 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Woodland Middle School has once again been recognized as a “Mix It Up Model School” for its exemplary efforts to foster respect and understanding among students and throughout the entire school during the 2011-2012 school year. Woodland Middle School is one of 77 schools from across the country receiving the honor. For more than a decade, Mix It Up Day has provided students across the country with an opportunity to move out of their comfort zones and connect with someone new over lunch. It's a simple act with profound implications as studies have shown that interactions across group lines can help reduce prejudice. Woodland’s Mix It Up Day, held on April 3, was a huge success. Activities were planned by the school’s SEL (Social Emotional Learning) Committee to revolve around the zodiac, during which students were seated according to their zodiac signs during lunchtime. They participated in scavenger hunts, word searches, raffles, and a “guess how many Skittles in a jar” contest. The success of the day could be attributed to, in part, by the assistance of 44 students in East Meadow High School’s Athlete Helping Athletes and Peer Leaders programs, and 43 students in Woodland’s Peer Leaders program. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5369 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here to View the Brochure http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5307 Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT The East Meadow School District invites all residents to the Formal Budget Presentation, to be held on Thursday, May 3 at 7:30 p.m. at the Leon J. Campo Salisbury Center, located at 718 The Plain Road in Westbury. All residents are encouraged to attend to learn about the proposed budget for 2012-13. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5091 Tue, 27 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Project ACCESS (A Community Committed to Educating Students for Success) sponsored a nutrition workshop for the East Meadow School District community about the importance of eating healthy foods and exercising. The workshop began with a welcome by Assistant to the Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Cindy Munter, who then introduced the evening’s speaker on nutrition, Kerry Dunne, Principal of McVey Elementary School. Mrs. Dunne discussed nutrition and its effects on the brain by focusing on the most important meal of the day – breakfast. There was a display of healthy breakfast foods for tasting, such as steel cut oatmeal and yogurt with fruit. Mrs. Dunne also led a discussion regarding the nutritional value of eggs, which have DHA that boosts brain function. In addition, Mrs. Dunne shared a little-known fact about peppermint and how it invigorates brain function by increasing oxygen flow, helping to “wake up” the brain. The evening concluded with a Zumba demonstration by East Meadow High School physical education teacher Lisa Gegerson. Many thanks to Project ACCESS’ co-chairs Ana Colon and Cathy Morales for a wonderful and informative evening! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5197 Mon, 26 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students from each building in the East Meadow Union Free School District participated in the 8th annual Nassau Art Supervisors Association (ASA) All-County Art Exhibition at Adelphi University, with nearly 70 entrants. Special congratulations go to East Meadow High School senior Hannah Meyer and W.T. Clarke High School senior Diana Vanegas for receiving the ASA 2012 Scholarship. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5025 Fri, 23 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT On March 14, student musicians in elementary through high school came together for the annual District Music Festival at the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts at C.W. Post/Long Island University. The evening began with a welcome and introduction by the district’s director of music and art, Abby Behr, who introduced Dr. James Allen Anderson, Director of Orchestral Activities and music director of the University of Delaware’s symphony and chamber orchestras. The festival began with a performance by the High School District Chamber Orchestra. The Middle School District String Orchestra then entertained the crowd, followed by the Emerald String Quartet and the Elementary School District String Orchestra. The evening’s finale included students and staff performing “Twinkle Variations & Theme (Folk).” Special thanks to artists-in-residence Eileen Murphy and Trevor New, who assisted the students in their performances, and to the Arts-in-Education Program at Long Island University Tilles Center for the Performing Arts. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5026 Fri, 23 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click here for more information http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5028 Fri, 23 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Nearly 50 fifth-grade students in the Parkway Elementary School Art Club, under the direction of art teacher Franceska Baer, have created a beautiful mural composed of 144 painted and glazed tiles. The mural ties in with the school’s character education program and is entitled, “Have You Filled a Bucket Today?” Each student in the club was assigned more than one tile to paint. Once completed, the mural was assembled and glazed by Ms. Baer. With the goal of creating a mural every year, this is the second mural project that the Parkway Art Club has completed. Last year, the students created a tile mural welcoming all to their school, complete with mascot – the Parkway Bear. Next year’s project is in the discussion phase, and different media are being examined. Special thanks are extended to Parkway’s custodial staff for hanging the mural, which is located in the 300 wing. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4804 Tue, 06 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT At the February 16, 2012 Board of Education Meeting, select students at Woodland and W.T. Clarke Middle Schools were honored for their academic achievements and/or citizenship for the months of December, January, and February. Each of the district’s Terrific Kids was presented with a certificate of achievement and a bumper sticker, sponsored by the East Meadow Kiwanis. The Board of Education, Kiwanis President Mitchell Allen, and Superintendent of Schools Louis R. DeAngelo presented the certificates to each student. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4694 Sun, 26 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Fifth-grade QUEST students at Parkway Elementary School explored the natural wonders of the world through “The New 7 Natural Wonders of the World,” an initiative that united the global population in selecting the greatest geological phenomena on earth. From 28 finalist “wonders,” 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’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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4618 Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4075 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click Here to View the Calendar http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4465 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students at Meadowbrook Elementary School enjoyed “Stories of Substance,” 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 “Think about it” and “What would you do?” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4470 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT 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 “Delete Cyberbullying” 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’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’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, “Students today are coming of age in a technological world and need to be taught that cyberbullying can have serious, lasting repercussions.” Congratulations to the Woodland students for taking part in this important project! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4398 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT 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’t wait for their next videoconferencing adventure! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4302 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT 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 “Partners in Education,” 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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4204 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT 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’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 “behemoth.” When Principal Susan Hyde asked Shayan the secret of his success, he replied, “I studied a lot!” Shayan will go on to the county level of competition on March 24 at Hofstra University. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4177 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Third-grade student Argonauts in Debra Berger’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’s “Exploration Through Education Program.” The students are learning about velocity, speed, acceleration, and momentum based on Newton’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. “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!” said student Saniya Gaitonde. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4122 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT 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’s class for capturing this honor. This is the sixth year that the PTA and Spirit Committee have collaborated on this wonderful drive. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3982 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3960 Sun, 18 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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 “Grade Five Spelling Bee Champion.” Bowling Green’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’s contest. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3965 Sun, 18 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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’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 “Doodle 4 Google” (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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3854 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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’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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3855 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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 http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3825 Sun, 04 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT On November 8, the East Meadow Union Free School District conducted its second Superintendent’s Conference Day, which continued the theme from September of “Linking the Common Core State Standards.” Workshops were held in each of the district’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’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, “As I visited the schools on Superintendent’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.” 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 “Creating a Safe School Climate and Community: What Educators Need to Know.” Ms. Fagin provided information about bullying and cyberbullying prevention, sexting, and Internet safety to staff and administrators. Superintendent’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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3719 Sun, 27 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT East Meadow High School sophomore Katrina Bamba has been selected as a 2011 Hugh O’Brian Youth (HOBY) Leadership ambassador. Katrina will participate with other teens at the HOBY Conference in the spring of 2012. This conference brings tomorrow’s leaders together with today’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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3637 Thu, 17 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Second-grade students in Michelle Comiskey’s class at Meadowbrook Elementary School held a videoconference with second graders from Oswego BOCES #21 to compare their “monsters,” 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’ 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’s instructions. During the second videoconference, the students discussed the similarities and differences between their monsters. To further reinforce the students’ communication skills, the videoconference ended with a question-and-answer session that focused on the kinds of sports the students like to play. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3583 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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. “When you have what you want, always ‘save.’ Don’t be afraid to try something – hit a button. That’s what kids do. Adults are often afraid of consequences,” said Ms. Goldstein. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3584 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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 ’68) and Irene Rosenfeld (Class of ’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. “I get so much pleasure to see someone from this school rise to the heights that you did,” he said to Dr. Rosenfeld. “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.” Dr. Rosenfeld said, “This is an incredible honor for me. I am overwhelmed. I haven’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’m thrilled to be back.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3525 Sun, 06 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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. “Let’s Jump!” supports First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move!” 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 “Let’s Jump!” 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. “I had a good idea that maybe our school could participate,” 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.. “Last year we did ‘Jog for Japan,’ and I thought that I could make a difference with this challenge,” explained Justin. Way to go, Justin! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3390 Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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 “Autumnal Hayride.” Community member Bobby Rauchbauer generously donated his time by turning his ATV into a “tractor.” 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’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’s Fall Festival! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3391 Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3336 Thu, 20 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Sixth-grade students at Woodland Middle School have accepted a big challenge: Rachel’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’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’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’s Challenge is simple: students have the power to make permanent, positive, and cultural changes in their schools and communities by embracing Rachel Scott’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’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’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 “What part of the assembly impacted you the most?” and “What can you do to continue Rachel’s chain reaction?” The students also completed a ditto, “How will you touch the world?” and then created five goals that would enable them to start their own chain reaction. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3286 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Librarian Ellen O’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’Neill wrote to the governor in each of the 50 United States, posing the question, “What makes your state unique?” On each letter she provided a square of canvas to be decorated with state “symbols.” The governors’ 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, “What would you add to the canvas?” Students have already begun discussing the governors’ submissions and are incorporating brainstorming and problem-solving techniques to the activity. The canvases will be combined to create one large “quilt” that represents the entire country. Ms. O’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. “This quilt will not only belong to McVey, but the entire country,” she stated. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3287 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3288 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3258 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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. “Board Games” 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’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'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! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3159 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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’s vital information including photo, digitally-scanned fingerprints, and emergency contact information. A very special thanks to W.T. Clarke High School’s Key Club members for volunteering to assist the younger children at the game tables. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3153 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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. “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,” said Principal Stacy Breslin, adding, “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.” East Meadow Superintendent of Schools Louis R. DeAngelo stated, "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's National Blue Ribbon Program." http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3047 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT The East Meadow Union Free School District has been recognized by the American School & University magazine with their “Grand Award for K-12 School Districts, Green Cleaning Award 2010.” The district was featured prominently in the magazine’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! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2825 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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’s newly elected President of the Board of Education, and Walter Skinner has been named Vice President. Congratulations! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2826 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click on the link below to learn how to enroll a new student. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/for_parents/new_student_registration http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2827 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here to learn more about Summer Reading http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2828 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT Blue skies and ample sunshine were the order of the day as East Meadow and Clarke High Schools’ 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’s graduation highlights included a performance of “The Star Spangled Banner” and “Give Me Wings,” 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’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, “To the graduating seniors, you are a unique group of people. Congratulations, Class of 2011!” At Clarke High School’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’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, “Wherever you go, go with all of your heart,” adding a quote by Dr. Seuss, “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” 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, “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.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2775 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here to Read the Brochure Click Here for Online Registration http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2122 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Bindi Irwin, 12-year-old Australian activist, author of 16 “Bindi Wildlife Adventures” books, actress in the latest “Free Willy” movie, and daughter of the late documentarist and naturalist (and “Crocodile Hunter”) 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 “go on your own adventure, whether it be a local park or visiting me down under!” 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's PTA & Barnes & Noble. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2460 Mon, 16 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2461 Mon, 16 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT A new exhibition, entitled “Sensorship,” 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. “Sensorship” is an interactive exhibit where one can recreate the sensory experiences of those that differ from the average viewer’s. The show included seven stations. Each station represented a different viewer sensation and showcased a different student’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 “Micro-Macro”). 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 http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2462 Mon, 16 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Steps To Learning Budget Newsletter - #1 Steps To Learning Budget Newsletter - #2 http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2383 Tue, 03 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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 “The Effects of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Fibers on the Water Retention of Concrete.” Additionally, Japbani Nanda, a junior at W.T. Clarke High School made it to round two of the LISEF, with her project “Adding Some Spice to the Study of Neurodegeneration.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2130 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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’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! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2131 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT East Meadow High School is pleased to announce that the following students have been recognized for their exceptional work in science research: • Dominika Swieboda, a senior, received Honorable Mention (second place) at the Long Island Psychology Fair for her project “The Effect of Financial Status on a Woman’s Choice of Mate.” • 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 “The Effects of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Fibers on the Water Retention of Concrete.” • 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 “The Personal Pilot: I Believe I Can Fly.” • 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 “Solar Powered Computerized Advanced Revolutionary Filter (S.C.A.R.F.).” 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: • Katrina Bamba and Nathan Seigelaub: “The Golden Ration in Nature” • Rabihah Huda: “The Effect of Mathematics on the Perception of Optical Illusions” • Neil Khosla and Sunil Reddy: “Taxi Cab Geometry” • Daniel Cohen and Jefferey Juarez: “Mathematics of Cars” Many thanks to the students’ research teachers for all of their hard work and coaching of the students: Ginna Gabalski, Ken Nyer, and Sandra Polan. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2134 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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 “noctograph,” 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! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2135 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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 http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2136 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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 – Prepared, Top 10 Finalist in New York State Kelly Schneider, Buying & Merchandising Team Decision Making, Top 10 Finalist – Role Play and Overall Score Amanda Seelinger, Buying & Merchandising Team Decision Making, Top 10 Finalist – Role Play and Overall Score Daniel Wang, Principles of Finance, Top 10 Finalist – Interview, Test Score, and Overall Score Arjan Singh, Fashion Merchandising Promotion Plan, First Place in New York State, Top 10 Finalist – 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 – Advertising Campaign Event Jason Dunleavy – Public Speaking Prepared Jamie Gelberg – Quick Service Restaurant Management Hani Javed – Principles of Marketing Alexis Mello – Advertising Campaign Event Jennifer Neidle – Advertising Campaign Event Tyler Ranieri – Principles of Business Management & Administration Areeba Rasool – Free Enterprise Economics On-Site Kelly Schneider – Buying & Merchandising Team Decision Making Amanda Seelinger – Buying & Merchandising Team Decision Making Yash Shah – Financial Services Management Team Decision Making Siddesh Ramesh – Financial Services Management Team Decision Making Arjan Singh – Fashion Merchandising Promotion Plan Apeksha Tayal – Quick Service Restaurant Management Daniel Wang – Principles of Finance http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2137 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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). http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2138 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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 “published” stories by sharing their work at an Authors’ 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! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1985 Thu, 03 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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’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! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1826 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT In an effort to provide students with a learning environment that embraces “Best Instructional Practices” 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: • Independent Reading • Guided Reading • Shared Reading • Read-Aloud/ Modeled Reading • Language Experience • Spelling and Word Study • Independent Writing • Shared/ Interactive Writing • 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 “professional learning community.” http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1827 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1828 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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’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 “Easing the Transition into Middle School with Welcome Kits for the Class of 2014. “ 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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1829 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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’ 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 “Five Big Ideas” 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’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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1830 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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’s Challenge “Mix It Up Day,” 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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1831 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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 & 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 & 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! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1832 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Carly Salzman, a sophomore at East Meadow High School, has been selected as this year’s Hugh O’Brian Youth (HOBY) Leadership Ambassador. She will participate with other teens at the HOBY Leadership Conference this spring. This conference brings tomorrow’s leaders together with today’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’s annual performances. Carly’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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1766 Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Pre-K Registration Flyer - Click Here Kindergarten Registration Flyer - Click Here New Student Registration Documents - Click Here http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1747 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1754 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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 “Rams Live,” 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’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, “Rams Live” allows the school to connect with students in positive ways...and that is the ultimate goal! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1644 Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT On December 15, Woodland Middle School hosted a workshop entitled “Circle of Power and Respect,” 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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1594 Mon, 03 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2126 Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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’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! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2127 Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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 “Well” 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’s artwork is “Here’s to the Past,” and Amanda Goodman’s artwork is called “Big City Dreams.” Both works of art are digital photography. Congratulations to Amanda Giordano and Amanda Goodman! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2128 Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT 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 "regional" 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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1554 Mon, 20 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT 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-mâché, pencil drawings, pastels, watercolors, acrylics, ceramic/clay sculpture, Monomagic sculpture, fashion design, and jewelry. Clarke High School’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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1563 Mon, 20 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT The East Meadow High School Jazz Ensemble performed at the New York State School Music Association’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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1486 Tue, 07 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT 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’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’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! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1460 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT 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’Hearon’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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1461 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT 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’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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1462 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT 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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1463 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT 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’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’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! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1464 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT 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’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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1465 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT 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 “Honor Club” and reached the highest level of “Distinguished Club.” Also noteworthy is that Clarke Builders Club earned this recognition in its first, or “charter” 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’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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1292 Mon, 25 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT 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’s interactive presentation reinforced character building elements such as kindness, respect, trying one’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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1291 Sun, 24 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT 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 “Mariners Help Save Our Seas.” 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 & 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’s poster concentrated on special fishing nets called “turtle excluder devices” (TEDs), which mariners use to ensure that large marine animals don’t become trapped. A dolphin and a sea turtle are illustrated in Bailey’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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1266 Wed, 20 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT 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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1267 Wed, 20 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT 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’s annual Spring Evaluation Festival. The competition demands the highest level of performance from each participant. “We are most proud of their accomplishments and of their outstanding teachers,” stated Director of Music and Art Abby Behr. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1260 Tue, 19 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT 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 “Journeys into American Indian Territory.” “Journeys into American Indian Territory” 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. http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1261 Tue, 19 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT 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! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1262 Tue, 19 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT 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’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! http://www.eastmeadow.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1263 Tue, 19 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT