Month: November 2023

Newfield High School Theatre Arts students are proud to announce its recent production of the classic musical, Little Shop of Horrors. The performance showcased the exceptional talent of the school’s students, both on stage and behind the scenes.

“We are incredibly proud of our students for their commitment and passion in bringing this production to life,” said Joan Meichner, Director of Little Shop of Horrors. “Their talent and dedication are truly inspiring and we are excited to share this performance with our community.”

The musical, a cult classic, tells the story of a hapless florist shop worker who raises a plant that feeds on human blood. The production was a testament to the students, faculty, and staff’s hard work and dedication.

Cast:
Audrey – Jasmine Recova
Seymour – Alexander Yagud-Wolek
Mr. Musnik – Tommy Lasher
Crystal – Jaidy Pagano
Ronette – Jacqueline Gonzalez-Molina
Chiffon – Gloria Caracappa
Orin (Denist) – Gavin Wilson
Audrey II (The Plant) – Kyle Bogad
Skip Snip – Payton Astromovich
Bernstein – Ryan Gudelinis
Mrs. Luce – Alyssa Austin
Patrick Martin – Aidan Wilson
Audrey Understudy – Jaidy Pagano
Seymour Understudy – Ryan Gudelinis
Mr. Mushnik Understudy – Kyle Bogad
Crystal/Gonette/Chiffon Understudy – Alyssa Austin
Orin (Dentist) Understudy – Patton Astromovich
Audrey II (The Plant) Understudy – Aidan Wilson 

Middle Country Central School District’s Newfield High School and Centereach High School students recently showcased their musical talents at a concert held at Northport High School.

“We are incredibly proud of our student’s achievements; they truly embody the district’s commitment to fostering musical talent and providing enriching opportunities for its students,” said Dr. Diana Cook, Director of Music, Fine Arts, and Community Media Relations. “Congratulations to the All-County Musicians and their teachers, Tom Austin, Allison Bush, Dr. Harold Goldstein, Brian Hough, Dan Martinez, Joan Meichner and Greg Sevian!”

The students had a unique opportunity to rehearse and perform alongside other exceptional 11th and 12th-grade student musicians from across the county. Under the guidance of master conductors, they performed major masterworks, demonstrating their exceptional musical abilities.

Selection for this prestigious event was based on the students’ outstanding performances as soloists in the NYSSMA Solo and Ensemble Festival held in the spring of 2023. Their selection was also influenced by the strong recommendations of their music teachers, who recognized their talent and dedication to their craft.

Centereach HS

Shawn Edbert, French Horn, All-County Orchestra

Zachary Atkinson, Tenor 1, All-County Mixed Chorus

Yohani Chen, Flute, All-County Symphonic Band

Vincent Ferrara, Tenor 2, All-County Mixed Chorus

Ryan Bard, Tenor 1, All-County Mixed Chorus

Joelle Washington, Alto 1, All-County Mixed Chorus

Rowan Willis, Tenor 1, All-County Mixed Chorus

Newfield HS

Emma Geraci, Violin, All-County Orchestra

Addison Rothwell, Flute, All-County Symphonic Band

Alexander Yagud-Wolek, Tenor 2, All-County Mixed Chorus

Rebekah Giglio, Baritone Sax, All-County Symphonic Band

Jaidy Pagano, Soprano 2, All-County Treble Choir

Thomas Lasher, Euphonium, All-County Symphonic Band

Ten students from Newfield High School, part of the Middle Country Central School District, recently participated in a Compassion Without Borders event held at Half Hollow Hills East High School.

“We are so proud of our students for how they represented Newfield High School,” said Scott Graviano, Principal of Newfield High School. “They demonstrate our school’s commitment to fostering leadership and community service.”

The event brought together high school students across Suffolk County to explore their leadership potential and ignite their passion for positive change. The students engaged in a series of workshops and activities designed to foster empathy, compassion, and a commitment to community service.

The Newfield High School students demonstrated leadership skills and a strong desire to positively impact their communities. Their participation in the event is a testament to the school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded students who are not only academically successful but also socially responsible. 

Holbrook Road Elementary School was recently honored with a visit from the New York Police Department’s Jazz Band. The ensemble, comprised of 18 talented members from the ranks of the NYPD’s police band, delighted students and staff with a lively performance of jazz and pop standards.

“We are thrilled to have had the NYPD Jazz Band visit our school. Their performance was not only entertaining but also educational. Our students were introduced to a genre of music they may not be familiar with, and they learned about the important role music plays in our society,” said Dr. Craig Unkenholz, Holbrook Road Elementary School Principal. “We are incredibly grateful to the NYPD Jazz Band for taking the time to perform for our students. Their visit has left a lasting impression on our school community, and we look forward to future collaborations.”

The NYPD Jazz Band, known for their musical prowess and dedication to community outreach, brought a unique blend of entertainment and education to the school. Their performance not only showcased their musical talents but also provided an opportunity for students to learn about the rich history and cultural significance of jazz music.

Schools across the Middle Country School District celebrated Thanksgiving in various ways before heading into their break. The celebrations were inspired by a variety of different subjects including art, nutrition, and STEM.

At Oxhead Road Elementary School, students created their version of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, complete with drawings of balloon dogs inspired by artist Jeff Koons. Holbrook Road Elementary School held a parade, with students showcasing their STEM project, Balloons Over Broadway. This project challenged students to design a method to keep their balloon suspended in the air as if it were filled with helium.

Another example of how students in the District celebrated the Thanksgiving holiday took place at Selden Middle School, where students engaged in a math-based scavenger hunt to find the missing turkey. The turkey was eventually found in the school library, thanks to the students’ problem-solving skills.

At Centereach High School, students participated in a disguise a turkey art project, adding a creative twist to the holiday celebration. Newfield High School students in the Food and Nutrition and Culinary Techniques classes prepared a full spread of Thanksgiving foods and held a Friendsgiving celebration.

Newfield High School’s Tri-M Honor Society, under the direction of Dr. Harold Goldstein, brought holiday cheer to the Selden Fire House Tree Lighting ceremony with a performance of classic holiday carols. The talented group of students, all members of the prestigious Tri-M Music Honor Society, showcased their musical abilities and holiday spirit, adding a festive touch to the annual tree-lighting event. The performance included a variety of traditional carols, delighting attendees of all ages.

Dr. Goldstein, the director of the Tri-M Honor Society, expressed his pride in the students. “These young musicians have worked tirelessly to prepare for this performance. Their dedication to their craft and their community is truly inspiring.”

The Selden Fire House Tree Lighting is a beloved community event that marks the beginning of the holiday season. The addition of live music by the Tri-M Honor Society members added a special touch to this year’s ceremony.

“We are grateful to the Tri-M Honor Society members and Dr. Goldstein for their wonderful performance,” said Dr. Diana Cook, Director of Music, Fine Arts, and Community Relations at the District. “Their music brought joy and warmth to the tree lighting ceremony and we look forward to their future performances.”

Centereach High School recently staged Hansel and Gretel, a play based on the famous Brothers Grimms story. The classic fairy tale was vividly brought to life by a group of talented young thespians.

The production was a collaborative effort among students, the drama department, the music department, and the art department. The actors worked tirelessly to create a visually stunning and captivating performance that transported the audiences into the enchanting world of European folklore.

 Patricia Duryea., the director of production, was moved by the commitment and talent of the students. “I am so incredibly proud of the dedication and talent they displayed,” she said. “These students have truly embraced the magic of theatre and have worked so hard to bring this beloved fairy tale to life.”

Under Ms. Duryea’s careful guidance, the students researched and worked for months to perfect their roles and bring the story to life. From the intricate set design to the beautiful costumes and the captivating performances, Hansel and Gretel was a challenging work but provided a visual and auditory feast for the audience.

Cast:

Hansel – Shivam Mahadevan
Gretel – Amanda Gallarello
Witch – Addison Kirk
Mother – Angela Thomas
Father – John Woolard
Angel – Dee D’Andraia
Ole (Sandman) – Allen Zeng
Vigo – Rowen Willis
Sonje – Alex Senior
Maida – Ecrin Uyar
Johna – Zachary Voskinarian
Astrid – Dakota White
Ulva (Dwarf) – Reese FOley
Thorin (Dwarf) – James Rutkowski
Thorin (Dward) Understudy – Kaleb Fernandez
Olga (Elf Princess) – Sharbojoya Mattrik
Helga (Elf) – Alicia Robles
Llega (Elf) – Liana Chivu
Ensemble (Dwarfs/Fairies) Garbelisa Destra, Renand IBrahim and Julia Nissen

Middle Country Central School District’s elementary schools celebrated Veterans Day with events and activities that honored the brave Americans who served in the armed forces. Throughout the district, elementary schools organized a veterans parade, breakfast, and various classroom lessons and activities that instilled a sense of gratitude and appreciation among the students.

Holbrook Road Elementary School and New Lane Elementary School, for example, hosted a heartwarming veterans parade, during which local veterans were invited to walk through the school hallways lined with students, teachers, and staff. The parade route was adorned with flags and posters created by the students, showcasing their artistic talents and patriotism. The community came together to cheer and applaud the veterans, expressing their gratitude for their service and sacrifice. 

Over at Eugene Auer Elementary School and Bicycle Path Elementary School, students engaged in various activities and lessons designed to foster appreciation and respect for veterans. In one heartwarming activity, the students wrote thank you letters and cards expressing their admiration for \veterans in the community. Additionally, students created flags and posters that were proudly displayed throughout the school buildings. 

Students from Middle Country School District’s National Tech Honor Society, DECA, and the LGBTQ+ clubs recently volunteered their time and skills to help build a house in Riverhead in partnership with Habitat for Humanity.

The students, who are part of various clubs and societies at the schools, came together to contribute to a cause that directly impacts their local community. The project not only provided a home for a family in need but also offered the students a unique opportunity to apply their technical skills in a real-world setting.

“We are incredibly proud of our students for their dedication and commitment to serving their community,” said Dr. Roberta Gerold, Superintendent of Schools. “This project allowed them to utilize their technical skills, learn about the importance of affordable housing, and understand the value of teamwork and community service.”

The students worked alongside Habitat for Humanity professionals, learning about construction, project management, and the importance of affordable housing. The project also fostered a sense of unity among the students, as they worked together to achieve a common goal.

Hannah Hughes, a standout gymnast from Middle Country Central School District, has once again proven her exceptional talent by claiming her second consecutive Suffolk all-around individual title on Friday, November 3, 2023. This achievement comes just four days after she set a personal best on floor exercise and led Middle Country Central School District to its first team county championship in 20 years.

“Hughes’ dedication, talent, and consistent performance have made her a role model for young gymnasts in the region,” said Melissa Valentino, Middle Country Central School District’s Coach. “As Hannah prepares for the state championships she continues to inspire others with her commitment to excellence in the sport of gymnastics.”

Hughes scored an impressive 38.200 at the competition held at West Islip High School. This victory further cements her status as one of the top gymnasts in the region and sets her up for a promising run at the upcoming state championships.

Hannah Hughes is now setting her sights on the all-around state championship and the vault state title, both of which she has previously won. If successful, this will be her second straight all-around state championship and third straight vault state title. The state championships are scheduled to take place on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Clarence High School.