Middle Country Student Ashley Wall Recognized By Long Island Arts Alliance

Middle Country Central School District’s Newfield High School senior Ashley Wall was recently recognized as a Long Island Merit Scholar Artist in Dance. Ashley is one of only five dancers on Long Island that was recognized this year, bringing tremendous pride to the Middle Country community. She was nominated in June by her dance instructor, Kristi Adams.

 

Ashley, accompanied by her family, was recognized at the Long Island Arts Alliance Induction Ceremony, held at Long Island University on September 11, 2019. This accolade is a tremendous accomplishment earned through hard work, dedication and passion. The District will continue to implement a diverse and well-rounded curriculum, providing students with numerous opportunities to shine in art, music and theater. Congratulations to Ashley and all other award recipients!

 

For more information about academic programs available at the Middle Country School District and a calendar of events, please visit www.mccsd.net.

 

liaa award

Close to Home: Jericho Honors Veterans

Middle Country Central School District’s Jericho Elementary School recently hosted and honored a special group of 42 veterans for Memorial Day, all of whom are family members of Jericho students. The veterans were welcomed with patriotic signs, specialized “Thank You to Our Veterans” letters, a student-led national anthem, and poppy corsages to honor the beloved parents, grandparents and siblings.

 

The event was made possible due to the organizing and creativity of dedicated teachers Mrs. Triandafills, Mrs. Campanelli and Mrs. Kempf. The District continues to seek opportunities that allow its students to give back to the community and showcase the career paths of those in our Middle Country community.
For more information regarding Middle Country Central School District and its students’ many achievements, please visit the District’s website: https://www.mccsd.net/.

 

jericho - memorial day

Middle Country Central School District Announces May Students of the Month

The Middle Country Central School District announced its May students of the month at a recent Board of Education meeting. Dawnwood Middle School eighth grade student Lauren Hoppe and Selden Middle School eighth grade student Paul Sutherland were both honored for their accomplishments in academics, dedication to extracurricular activities, and for showcasing great potentials as their time in middle school comes to a close and they look ahead to high school.

 

“On behalf of the Board of Education, faculty and staff members, I want to congratulate these two remarkable students for their achievements and for setting the bar high for all who will follow in their footsteps,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Roberta Gerold. “I look forward to witnessing the continued successes of Lauren and Paul as they grow into leaders in our Middle Country community.”

 

Dawnwood Middle School eighth grade student Lauren Hoppe is widely known among her peers and teachers as hard-working, passionate, caring and energetic. In her three years at Dawnwood, she has earned an overall average of 98.9 and has been an active member of the National Junior Honor Society and the school’s band. Lauren has also been a tremendous asset on the soccer and lacrosse teams due to her tremendous leadership skills and competitive nature. She hopes to one day become a lawyer or a math teacher.

 

Paul Sutherland from Selden Middle School consistently receives 100 marks on his report cards and completed his most recent quarter with an overall average of 99. He has a true love for learning, and his most fond memories of middle school include visiting different classrooms, learning from different teachers, and benefiting from his peers’ ranging viewpoints. Paul is a dedicated trumpet player and golfer. Through his continued determination, he hopes to one day become a meteorologist.

 

DMS-Lauren Hoppe

SMS-Paul Sutherland

Middle Country Central School District Announces April Students of the Month

The Middle Country Central School District announced its April students of the month at its recent Board of Education meeting. Centereach High School senior Zanab Qureshi, Newfield High School senior Jennifer Mzobe, Dawnwood Middle School seventh grade student Nora Pedersen and Selden Middle School eighth grade student Kevin Cosgrove were all honored for their accomplishments in academics, dedicated membership in a wide array of extracurricular activities, and for serving as young leaders to their peers and school communities.

 

“We are consistently proud to recognize four highly-motivated young people each month who encompass the values of Middle Country Central School District,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Roberta Gerold. “Based on the accomplishments they have accumulated at such young ages, we are confident these students will go on to achieve even greater things as they continue their educational journeys.”

 

Centereach High School senior Zanab Qureshi was honored for her academic growth, overall positive attitude and extracurricular involvement. Not only is Zanab a mainstay at her school’s PTSA Fashion Show and Asian Awareness Night, she is a dedicated member of the Art Honor Society, Video Club and Best Buddies. She has a passion for volunteering and gives her time to Life Skills Social at the end of each school year.

 

Zanab is described by her teachers as someone who has incredible patience with others and who always looks to find the best in everyone. Her teachers are also impressed with her willingness to assist others and with her ever-growing leadership skills. Upon graduation, Zanab plans to further her studies at Suffolk County Community College before attending a four-year institution—where she plans to study to become a psychologist.

 

Jennifer Mzobe is a senior at Newfield High School who displays consistent academic excellence and boasts an impressive selection of extracurricular activities. Throughout high school she has maintained a weighted GPA of 100.82 and currently ranks sixth out of the nearly 350 students in her class. Along with taking twelve AP courses and four college credit courses, Jennifer is also a member of Art Honor Society, National Honor Society, DECA, Video Club, Environmental Club, G.O., Newspaper Club, SADD Club, Art Club and the Literary Magazine Club.

 

Jennifer’s teachers describe her as having an inexhaustible passion and enthusiasm for learning as she continuously strives to improve her academic abilities. After graduating, Jennifer plans on attending Stony Brook University in the fall and is set to double major in neuroscience and chemistry.

 

Dawnwood Middle School seventh grade student Nora Pedersen was selected for her academic distinction, achievement in athletics and personal values. Nora has earned a 98.9 overall average during her time at Dawnwood. Along with excelling in pre-algebra, she is a four-sport athlete who plays soccer, volleyball, basketball, and lacrosse. Nora is commonly known by her teachers as a student who possesses great maturity, kindness and is an asset to every classroom she enters.

 

Kevin Cosgrove is an eighth grade student at Selden Middle School and is being honored for his positive influence on his peers and academic successes. Over his three years at Selden, Kevin has maintained a 97 overall average. On top of his academic accomplishments, he plays trombone in Jazz Band, and has been a member of the Lego Robotics Team, Technology Club, National Junior Honor Society, cross country team and track team. Kevin is known by his teachers as a leader amongst his peers and a student who shows determination by never giving up.

 

For more information regarding Middle Country Central School District and its students’ many achievements, please visit the District’s website: https://www.mccsd.net/.

 

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Centereach High School senior Zanab Qureshi.

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Newfield High School senior Jennifer Mzobe.

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Dawnwood Middle School seventh grade student Nora Pedersen.

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Selden Middle School eighth grade student Kevin Cosgrove.

 

Selden Middle School Students Correspond with French Pen-Pals

Middle Country Central School District’s Selden Middle School students recently received a variety of handwritten letters and postcards from their pen-pals in France. The seventh and eighth grade students learned more about French geography from their pen-pals, who wrote about their hometown of Toulouse—the fourth largest city in France. The District’s French program students also learned from their pen-pals that Toulouse has a booming aerospace industry and is nicknamed La Ville Rose—The Pink City.

 

The Selden students will continue working on their responses, all in an effort to improve their French vocabulary and writing skills. Selden Middle School French teacher Mrs. Gabriela McCawley noted, “It is inspiring to see how much our students love learning about new cultures and are driven to master the French language.”

 

The District continues to offer interactive and engaging programs that encourage students to expand their worldview through the learning of a second language.

 

For more information about academic programs available at the Middle Country School District and a calendar of events, please visit www.mccsd.net.

 

pen pal

Newfield Students Present Research on Vaping

Middle Country Central School District’s Newfield High School students recently participated in the Medical Marvels Competition—a program established by Northwell Health’s Feinstein Institute for Medical Research and the Center for Workforce Readiness. Students Gary Palmeri, Leslie Bardales and Raja Umer conducted the research and were joined by fellow student Dom Mauri for a presentation of their findings on the vaping usage of teenagers. Their research included the health effects of vaping, nicotine addiction and an action plan to eliminate vaping use amongst their peers.

 

Now in its seventh year, the Medical Marvels Competition is designed to provide Long Island students with the chance to explore subject areas of STEM in a more comprehensive way and showcase STEM’s multidisciplinary career options. The District continues to provide students with educational experiences that engage them in STEM outside of regular classroom curriculum.

 

For more information regarding Middle Country Central School District and its students’ and faculty’s many achievements, please visit the District’s website: https://www.mccsd.net/.

 

northwell competition - newfield

Middle Country Central School District Staff Honored for Exceptional Work and Dedication to District and Community

Fifteen members of the Middle Country Central School District staff received recognition at the thirteenth annual Special Performance/Achievement Recognition and Commendation (SPARC) Award Ceremony, which recognizes staff members for their exceptional community service and proven activism within the District. Town of Brookhaven Councilman Kevin LaValle was in attendance to present certificates to the recipients and honor them for their continued contributions to the Middle Country community.

 

Various student and community organizations helped recognize the deserving staff. The Dawnwood Middle School Jazz Ensemble and Centereach High School String Quartet provided a selection of music for the event.           

 

The SPARC award winners are nominated by colleagues and placed into one of three categories: Quiet Hero, for those who humbly perform outstanding deeds for the District; Distinguished Service, for staff that has consistently shown their commitment and support for the District, or; Community Service, recognizing those who volunteer their time to go above and beyond to benefit the community. Below are the recipients of each award:

 

Quiet Hero:

Tracy Subject, Teacher, Selden Middle School           

Susan Iadanza, Social Studies Teacher, Newfield High School

Ryan Maloney, Operations

 

Distinguished Service:

Mary Strong, Teacher Selden Middle School

Kristin Anschutz, Teacher, New Lane Elementary School

Julia Conlon, Teacher, North Coleman Elementary School

Peter Desjardins, Coordinator of District Data Services

Dr. Dianne Picone, Assistant Principal, Centereach High School

Carol McCormick, Monitor, Selden Middle School

Ruth O’Shea, Teacher, Selden Middle School

Meredith Graham, Bus Driver, Transportation

Heather Hanley, Teacher, Bicycle Path PreK/Kindergarten Center

Jennifer Harrison, Director of Pupil Personnel Services

 

Community Service:

Melissa Bukowski, Teacher, New Lane Elementary School

Donna Mahony, Teacher, New Lane Elementary School

 

For more information regarding Middle Country Central School District and its students’ and faculty’s many achievements, please visit the District’s website: https://www.mccsd.net/.

 

sparc

Middle Country Central School District Announces March Students of the Month

The Middle Country Central School District announced its March students of the month at its recent Board of Education meeting. Centereach High School senior Alex Mazzella, Newfield High School senior Nicole Migliano, Dawnwood Middle School sixth grade student Benjamin Taciak, and Selden Middle School sixth grade student Bryce Goodman were all honored for their excellence in academics, involvement and commitment with a wide scope of extracurricular activities, and by serving as positive examples for their peers and other community members.

 

“Each month, it is our pleasure to acknowledge four high-achieving students who represent what young people are capable of when they dedicate themselves to their school and community,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Roberta Gerold. “I am confident that these students will continue to succeed in their future endeavors as they continue to serve as leaders in all facets of their lives.”

 

Centereach High School senior Alex Mazzella was honored for his academic success and achievements in athletics. Alex earned the highest possible score on all six of the Advanced Placement exams he has taken to date and is ranked third in his graduating class. He was the captain of the cross country team in the fall, runs winter track, and is co-captain of the varsity tennis team. Alex is also a member of the National Honor Society, the National Spanish Honor Society, the Tri-M Honor Society, and serves as the General Organization vice president.

 

Alex is described by his teachers as self-motivated, energetic, positive, hardworking, and as someone who goes above and beyond the average to meet his own high-expectations. Upon graduation, Alex plans to further his academic success at a four-year college and pursue a degree in engineering.

 

Nicole Migliano is a senior at Newfield High School whose passion, drive for excellence and academic skills are displayed on a daily basis. Throughout high school she has maintained a weighted GPA of 97.88 and earned 13 credits of Advanced Placement and college classes. Nicole has been able to succeed academically while simultaneously working toward her cosmetology license. Nicole is an active member of SADD club, drama club, the Tri-M Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, and National Honor Society.

 

Nicole’s teachers describe her as a dedicated student whose commitment and detailed execution of tasks will bode well for her in her future endeavors. After graduating, Nicole plans on attending either Hofstra University or Suffolk County Community College to focus on her true passion of photography.

 

Dawnwood Middle School sixth grade student Benjamin Taciak was selected for his commitment to academics and the positive impact he has on his classmates. Benjamin, in his first two quarters of middle school, has a 98.3 overall average. Along with playing both the piano and clarinet, he recently published a short story in his native language of Polish. Outside of school, he enjoys learning about astronomy and traveling to destinations like Poland, Holland, and Ireland. On top of all his accomplishments, Ben is known for always being a humble and kind member of the classroom.

 

Bryce Goodman is a sixth grade student at Selden Middle School and is being honored for his natural leadership skills and his academic successes. Through two quarters of sixth grade, Bryce has an overall average of 97.25—excelling in math and his favorite subject of social studies. His teachers describe him as selfless, having a strong sense of character and being someone with the potential to lead others in the future. Bryce hopes to join the National Honor Society in high school and one day attend the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill.

 

For more information regarding Middle Country Central School District and its students’ many achievements, please visit the District’s website: https://www.mccsd.net/.

 

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Centereach High School senior Alex Mazzella.

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Newfield High School senior Nicole Migliano.

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Dawnwood Middle School sixth grade student Benjamin Taciak.

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Selden Middle School sixth grade student Bryce Goodman.

 

Middle Country Students Get a Look into Their Future

Middle Country Central School District students from Selden Middle School and Dawnwood Middle School recently participated in the District’s ninth annual Job Shadowing Day. The eighth grade students currently enrolled in the family and consumer sciences course and technology course had the opportunity to spend a day with local employers to get a firsthand look at potential career paths.

 

This learning experience, sponsored by the Middle Country Business Advisory Board, provided students with an insight into the responsibility, time management, hard work and teamwork skills involved in having a successful and fulfilling professional life. The District recognizes the importance of properly preparing students for the workforce and provides similar opportunities throughout the school year to best prepare students for their future.

 

For more information about events or happenings at the Middle Country School District, please visit www.mccsd.net.

 

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District Announces February Students of the Month

The Middle Country Central School District announced its February students of the month at its recent Board of Education meeting. Centereach High School senior Alexa Oviedo, Newfield High School senior Ryan Grijalva, Danwood Middle School eighth grade student Lucciano Kemeny, and Selden Middle School seventh grade student Ieva Tarasevicius were all honored for their incredible academic achievements, passion and engagement with a wide range of extracurricular activities, and having a tremendous impact on their peers and individuals throughout the community.

 

“These four outstanding young adults represent the best in what our District strives to develop in our students every day,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Roberta Gerold. “These individuals have gone above and beyond in every aspect of their academic studies as well as extracurriculars, and they work tirelessly time and time again to be the best they can be. I have no doubts that these students will be successful in all their future endeavors.”

 

Centereach High School senior Alexa Oviedo was honored for her academic success and substantial impact throughout the music and theater department. Alexa will have completed at least seven Advanced Placement and college level courses by graduation this June. Alexa is also a member of the Thespian Honor Society, Women’s Choir, and the Select Vocal Ensemble—oftentimes receiving lead roles in many of the theater department’s productions.

 

Alexa is described by her teachers and peers as talented, kind and humble, consistently expressing gratitude for those who support and assist her in her accomplishments. Upon graduating, Alexa intends to pursue a bachelor’s degree and then continue her studies with a doctoral degree in veterinary science. She has been accepted to LIU and SUNY Oneonta for their pre-veterinary and biology programs.

 

Ryan Grijalva is a senior at Newfield High School who consistently challenges himself inside and outside the classroom. With a cumulative GPA of 96, Ryan has taken a total of 14 Advanced Placement and college level courses. He has a great passion for music and is a member of the Thespian Society, the Wind Ensemble, Select Jazz Band and the Drum Circle. Ryan was selected as the student conductor for the Pep Band that performs at football games, and is currently conducting a 20-piece band to perform at the District’s Broadway Night.

 

Ryan’s teachers describe him as conscientious, focused and a true leader. After graduation, Ryan is currently looking to enter higher education with a major in computer science and a possible minor in music to continue his passion. Ryan exhibits an interest in working in the cybersecurity field and is interested in technology and how it has evolved in recent years. Ryan was accepted to Penn State and is waiting to hear back from the University of Connecticut, Boston University and SUNY Binghamton.

 

Dawnwood Middle School eighth grade student Lucciano Kemeny was selected for his academic excellence and his positive influence on students and staff. Lucciano’s average for the second quarter was 98.1, including the 99 average he earned in his algebra and living environment classes. He plays on the school tennis team and says that math is one of his favorite subjects. Lucciano is recognized for his thoughtful and compassionate personality and how he inspires the other students to do their best.

 

Ieva Tarasevicius is a seventh grade student at Selden Middle School and was chosen for her engagement with her peers, the curriculum, and in various extracurricular activities. Her drive to excel is exhibited in the fact that she has never once received a grade in any of her classes below a 97 while at Selden Middle School. Staff describe Ieva as kind, focused, determined and enthusiastic. Ieva is involved in lacrosse, performs and choreographs for the school’s kick line team, and has plans to apply for the National Junior Honor Society. Ieva has hopes of attending Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine after high school.

 

For more information regarding Middle Country Central School District and its students’ many achievements, please visit the District’s website: https://www.mccsd.net/.

 

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Centereach High School senior Alexa Oviedo.

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Newfield High School senior Ryan Grijalva.

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Dawnwood Middle School eighth grade student Lucciano Kemeny.

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Selden Middle School seventh grade student Ieva Tarasevicius.