Middle Country Central School District in the Media

New Lane Elementary School, in partnership with their PTA and BOCES Arts-in-Education, recently organized an exhilarating laser light show that promoted anti-bullying, teamwork, and doing the right thing. The event captivated students with a mesmerizing display of laser lights while delivering a powerful message.

“The laser light show provided an innovative and engaging platform to educate students about the importance of standing up against bullying and promoting a positive school environment,” said Robin Newberg, Principal of New Lane Elementary School. “Our students were entertained while they learned valuable lessons about empathy, respect, and inclusivity. ”

The captivating visuals and interactive elements of the laser show served as a backdrop to convey the message of doing the right thing. By integrating dance and the science of lasers, the show aimed to inspire students to find joy in learning while emphasizing the significance of making positive changes.”

To further reinforce the positive message and values, several dedicated teachers volunteered to be part of the laser light show. They actively participate in a laser light show game, demonstrating the power of collaboration and unity. By showcasing their ability to work together as a team, the teachers set an example for the students, encouraging them to support and uplift one another.

The students at Hawkins Path Elementary School are embracing the winter season by participating in a unique STEM activity: A snowman-building challenge! The project engages fourth-grade students in hands-on learning while fostering their creativity and problem-solving skills.

The STEM snowman building challenge encourages students to apply what they have learned in critical thinking and engineering to construct innovative and structurally sound snowman. The challenge not only provides a fun and interactive experience but also promotes teamwork and collaboration among students.

Throughout the challenge,  students worked in groups to design and build their snowmen using various materials and techniques. They were required to consider factors such as balance, stability, and aesthetics. To further enhance the learning experience of the challenge, students documented their design process, recorded observations, and analyzed the results.

The Newfield High School Drum Club showcased their exceptional talent and enthusiasm as they performed both on stage and in the lobby of the Patchogue Theatre for the Atlantic Wind Symphony Holiday Concert. Led by  Mr. Thomas Austin and Dr. Harold Goldstein, the Drum Club left the audience in awe with their captivating performances.

The Drum Club’s energetic and rhythmic beats resonated throughout the theatre, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Their synchronized movements and precise drumming techniques demonstrated the hours of practice and dedication they put into perfecting their craft.

In addition to their on-stage performances, the Drum Club also took charge of leading the holiday sing-along. Their infectious energy and spirited voices encouraged the audience to join in and spread the holiday cheer. The sing-along became a memorable and heartwarming experience for everyone in attendance.

 Middle Country Central School District’s decorated scouts from Selden Troop 228 recently paid a visit to the Hertlin House in Lake Ronkonkoma. The scouts engaged in a heartwarming activity by playing board games with the residents, bringing joy and companionship to the retirement home.

In addition to their thoughtful gesture, the scouts also brought along 75 beautiful poinsettias to brighten up the Hertlin House during this holiday season. The vibrant red flowers added a festive touch to the retirement home, spreading cheer and warmth to the residents.

The scouts from Selden Troop 228 demonstrated their commitment to community service and their dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of others. Their visit to the Hertlin House not only provided entertainment and companionship to the residents but also brought a sense of holiday spirit and joy.

Students from Bryan Latham’s AP Government class, Lisa McDonell’s AP U.S. History class, and Richard  Rennard’s AP Economics class at Newfield High School recently had the incredible opportunity to visit the nation’s capital. This trip was a unique and unforgettable experience for the students.

“The Newfield High School community is exceptionally proud of both their former student, Cristian Rodriguez, and their current students for representing the school with such distinction,” said Scott Graviano, Newfield High School Principal. “This trip to the nation’s capital was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the students and teachers. A warm thank you to Cristian for welcoming our students and our teachers for this experience.”

Cristian Rodriquez, an Engagement Aide for Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, warmly welcomed his former high school to Capitol Hill. Mr. Rodriquez arranged several special opportunities for the students, including a White House tour and a Capitol Building VIP tour. The students even had the privilege of visiting the Senate while it was in session and engaging in a question-and-answer session with the Director of Engagement, Cietta Kiandoli, and Mr. Rodriquez.

In addition to these exclusive experiences, the students had the chance to explore various important landmarks and museums in Washington, D.C. They visited the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Museum of Natural History, and several significant monuments and memorials. These educational tours provided the students with a deeper understanding of American history and culture.

The members of the Dawnwood Middle School National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) in the Middle Country Central School District recently embarked on their annual holiday shopping trip to Target. The event was a great success with over $250 worth of toys purchased for the Giving Tree.

“The annual holiday shopping trip to Target is a cherished tradition for our NJHS members,” said Karena Israel, advisor of the Dawnwood Middle School NJHS. “It not only allows them to experience the joy of giving, but also teaches them the importance of empathy, compassion, and community service. We are incredibly proud of their dedication and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.”

The Giving Tree is a charitable initiative that benefits Stony Brook’s Children’s Hospital, providing joy and comfort to children who are receiving medical care during the holiday season. Each year, the Dawnwood Middle School NJHS members eagerly participate in this heartwarming tradition, spreading holiday cheer and making a positive impact in their community.

Under the guidance of their dedicated advisor, the Dawnwood Middle School NJHS members carefully selected a wide variety of toys that catered to the diverse interests and age groups of the children at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. From stuffed animals to board games to art supplies, the students made thoughtful choices to ensure that every child would find something special under the tree.

Unity Drive’s Pre-Kindergarten class in Ms. Kelly Clancy-Nill’s room has introduced a unique and engaging Weather Channel Dramatic Play Center. This innovative learning approach allows young learners to explore different roles within a weather station, fostering their curiosity and understanding of weather-related concepts.

“Learning about the weather helps young students understand the natural world and make connections between different weather patterns such as rain, wind, clouds, and seasons. They also learn that weather conditions can have a significant impact on our daily lives. For example, they learn that excess snow could mean a snow day and rain means no outside play,” said Kelly Clancy-Nill. “

Each day, the students watch the daily News 12 Long Island weather forecast, learning about the different parts of the weather report. The students then have the opportunity to play in their weather station, choosing between roles such as a reporter, camera person, forecaster, or meteorologist.  Unity Drive students are equipped with microphones, video cameras, and a whiteboard, where they can draft their reports before presenting in their news studio and reenacting the News 12 weather report.

Enoch Kodua, a talented seventh-grade student at Selden Middle School, has completed an inspirational mural titled, Be the One to Keep Your Dreams, for the school’s cafeteria.

“We are incredibly proud of Enoch’s achievement and believe that his mural will inspire other students to express themselves creatively and strive for their dreams,” said Andrew Bennett, Principal of Selden Middle School. Mr. Bennett unveiled the mural at a special ceremonial event celebrating the young talent nurtured and encouraged at Selden Middle School.

The mural, which is now a permanent fixture in the school’s cafeteria, serves as a daily reminder for students to keep pursuing their dreams. Enoch’s work is a testament to Selden Middle School students’ creativity, dedication, and passion.

Centereach High School art teacher, Mrs. Karissa LaLima, recently presented at the New York State Art Teachers Associaton (NYSATA) statewide conference, sharing her innovative teacher methods with 40 art educators from across the state.

“Art is a personal journey, and I believe it’s important for students to have the freedom to express themselves creatively,” said Mrs. LaLima. “My teaching method is designed to provide students with the technical skills they need, while also encouraging them to explore their artistic vision.

Mrs. LaLima’s presentation focused on her unique approach to lesson organization, designed to give students a maximum choice in the outcome of their artworks. Her goal is to ensure that students not only learn the necessary skills to succeed in ceramics but also have the freedom to make their own artistic decisions.

Oxhead Road Elementary School students recently participated in the Hour of Code, a global movement reaching tens of millions of students in over 180 countries, to celebrate Computer Science Education Week (December 4 – December 10). The event is part of Middle County Central School District’s commitment to providing all students with 21st-century skills that promote creative problem-solving in a diverse and dynamic world.

“Participating in the Hour of Code not only introduces our students to the world of computer science but also encourages them to think creatively and critically,” said Phyllis Saltz, Principal of Oxhead Road Elementary School. “We believe that these skills are essential for our students’ future success in the 21st-century workforce.”

The students used Code.org, a non-profit dedicated to expanding access to computer science in schools. This platform offers a wide range of coding activities suitable for all age groups and skill levels.