Middle Country Central School District in the Media

On September 11, 2025, schools across the Middle Country Central School District came together in a districtwide tribute to honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and celebrate the heroes who emerged in the face of tragedy. Staff and students showed their patriotism and unity by wearing red, white, and blue and participating in meaningful activities to mark the 24th anniversary.

Each school observed the day in a heartfelt way. Bicycle Path PreK and Kindergarten Center students created American flags and other red-white- and-blue themed crafts, engaging in age-appropriate activities to recognize and honor Patriot Day. Hawkins Path Elementary School encouraged students to honor those lost through acts of kindness by reflecting on how they could be helpers in their school and community, keeping alive the spirit of unity that defined the country in the weeks and months following September 11. Jericho Road Elementary School crafted patriotic art, and read stories that celebrated the resilience of the American spirit. A moment of silence gave students and staff the opportunity to reflect on the importance of community and how they can make a positive impact as helpers in today’s world.

Students at Eugene Auer Elementary School created heartfelt thank you cards for community heroes, reinforcing the importance of gratitude and recognition for those who serve and protect. North Coleman Road Elementary School honored the day with classroom activities with patriotic craft and a reading of This Very Tree. At Oxhead Road Elementary School, students showed their patriotism by drawing American flags.

At Selden Middle School, students respectfully placed American flags in front of the school, creating a sea of stars and stripes that served as a solemn reminder of the lives lost. The activity also provided a moment of reflection and learning about the significance of the day. Newfield High School senior Jacqueline Gonzalez-Molina represented the school and community with pride by performing at the Selden Fire Department’s 9/11 Memorial Ceremony. Centereach High School played a prominent role in community commemorations as well. The Women’s Choir, under the direction of Brian Hough, performed a moving tribute at the Centereach Fire Department’s ceremony. Senior Gavin Wahlen offered a powerful and emotional rendition of “Taps” on his trumpet, honoring the memory of the fallen.

Across the district, a moment of silence united all schools in remembrance. During this time, students and staff reflected not only on the events of 9/11 but also on the importance of compassion, bravery, and service to others—values that continue to shape the Middle Country Central School District community.

The Centereach High School Music Department rolled up its sleeves and made a splash this past weekend, hosting a successful Community Car Wash Fundraiser to support the department’s upcoming events, performances, and student enrichment opportunities.

Held at their local Lake Grove Applebee’s parking lot, the event brought together talented student-musicians, dedicated music staff, and enthusiastic volunteers—all working hard to raise funds while engaging with the school community. Cars lined up throughout the morning and early afternoon, with drivers eager to support the cause and leave with a sparkling clean vehicle.

“The energy was fantastic. Our students came together as a team to not only wash cars to raise funds for our program, but to connect with members of the community who support the arts,” said Brian Hough, Centereach High School Music teacher. “These funds go directly toward future musical opportunities such as festival participation, performances, and travel that help our students grow as people and musicians.”

 In addition to washing cars, students held signs, creating a fun and inviting atmosphere that showcased the department’s spirit and teamwork. The Music Department continues to be a cornerstone of Centereach High School’s in-school and co-curricular programming, offering a wide range of musical opportunities, including band, choir, orchestra, jazz ensemble, and theater.

Thank you to everyone who came out to support the event—and a big round of applause to the student-musicians whose hard work and positive attitude made it such a hit.

The 2025–2026 school year is officially underway in the Middle Country Central School District, as students returned to classrooms across the district on Tuesday, September 3. From the early morning arrival of buses to the joyful reunions among friends, the first day was filled with excitement, anticipation, and positive energy.

Across all schools in the district, the day began with the hum of activity—buses pulling into drop-off zones, cars lining up as families wished students a great first day, and staff members eagerly greeting their students with warm smiles and welcoming words.

Adding to the excitement, a special “Chalk the Walk” event was held the day before the first day of school. Parents and family members were invited to visit some of the elementary school grounds to write and draw encouraging messages for students and staff along the walkways. The colorful chalk art, filled with words of kindness, creativity, and inspiration, created a joyful and welcoming atmosphere that greeted students as they arrived.

“Seeing our students return with such energy and enthusiasm is always one of the best moments of the year,” said Dr. Roberta Gerold, Superintendent of Schools. “Our teachers and staff have been working hard to prepare for this day, and we’re thrilled to welcome everyone back to a year full of learning, growth, and opportunity.”

As students made their way into their classrooms, the mix of happy smiles and first-day jitters was clear. Teachers helped ease nerves with fun introductory activities, while students reconnected with friends, met new classmates, and settled into their new routines.

The district’s commitment to providing a supportive, inclusive, and academically rich environment was on full display, setting the tone for a successful and inspiring year ahead. With the first day in the books, Middle Country Central School District is excited to move forward—focused on student achievement, community engagement, and creating a safe, welcoming space where every student can thrive.

The Middle Country Central School District welcomed its newest educators during a comprehensive new teacher orientation, held ahead of the 2025–2026 school year. The program, designed to provide new staff with tools and resources for a successful start, took place over two full days and covered a wide range of important topics.

Each day began with a warm welcome and breakfast, setting a collegial tone and allowing new teachers to connect with colleagues and district leaders. Throughout the orientation, Middle Country staff led sessions focusing on professional development and key instructional resources. Topics included:

• Navigating and utilizing district technology
  
  
• Understanding and implementing IEPs (Individualized Education Programs)
  
  
• Effective classroom management strategies
  
  
• Opportunities for professional growth within the district
  
  

In addition to the informative presentations, new teachers were given time to visit their respective buildings and begin setting up their classrooms in preparation for the first day of school. The Middle Country Teachers Association generously provided lunch, offering new staff a chance to further engage with their peers and feel welcomed into the district community.

“The new teacher orientation is a critical step in ensuring our educators are supported from day one,” said Dr. Roberta Gerold, Superintendent of Schools. “We are excited to welcome this talented group of professionals to Middle Country and look forward to the positive impact they will have on our students and school community.”

The District remains committed to supporting its educators at every stage of their careers and is excited to see the enthusiasm and dedication these new staff members bring to the classroom. For more information regarding the Middle Country Central School District and its students’ many achievements, please visit the District’s website: https://www.mccsd.net/.

In an inspiring show of community spirit and generosity, the Muccio siblings of Middle Country Central School District hosted their fourth annual lemonade stand fundraiser to help fellow students in need prepare for the upcoming school year.

The week-long event, organized and run entirely by the Muccio children, raised funds to purchase school supplies and backpacks for students in Middle Country. This year, the siblings expanded their efforts, offering lemonade, chips, cookies, handmade bracelets, children’s clothes, shoes, toys, and household items to raise as much money as possible.

Last year, the Muccio kids raised an impressive $1,317, which allowed them to purchase 75 backpacks and hundreds of essential school supplies. This year, they built on that momentum and raised $2,255. After a successful fundraising week, the siblings spent three hours shopping at the Setauket Target, carefully budgeting 100% of their proceeds to maximize the impact of every dollar.

Thanks to Target’s 20% teacher discount and an additional 15% savings through the Target app, the Muccio family was able to purchase 135 backpacks and over 1,000 school supplies—all dedicated to Middle Country children who need them most.

Their annual lemonade stand has become a cherished local tradition—one that not only brings the community together but also teaches valuable lessons in empathy, budgeting, and civic responsibility. The Muccio family extends their heartfelt thanks to the community for their continued support and to Target for the generous discounts that helped stretch every dollar further.

Five talented music students from Newfield High School have returned from a three-week international performance tour across Europe as part of American Music Abroad’s Freedom Tour.

Alex Wagner, Caiden Davis, Xjung Todd, Umber Sharma, and Athan Forster, accompanied by their band teacher Dr. Harold Goldstein, had the extraordinary opportunity to perform in world-renowned venues and experience rich cultural landmarks across five countries.

Throughout the tour, the students performed in a variety of iconic locations, including historic amphitheaters, majestic cathedrals, charming gazebos, and grand auditoriums in Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Austria, and France. These concerts brought together young musicians from across the United States to share their passion for music on a global stage.

Cultural highlights of the tour included:

• Viewing Michelangelo’s Statue of David in Florence
  
  
• Visiting the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa
  
  
• Riding gondolas through the canals of Venice
  
  
• Exploring salt mines and hiking a glacier in Austria
  
  
• Taking in the breathtaking Rhine Falls in Switzerland
  
  
• Reflecting at the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site in Germany
  
  
• Wandering through medieval villages, castles, and cathedrals throughout Germany and France
  
  

“This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Dr. Goldstein. “Not only did our students get to showcase their musical talents abroad, but they also immersed themselves in diverse cultures and histories that will stay with them forever.”

The Newfield community is incredibly proud of Alex, Caiden, Xjung, Umber, and Athan for their outstanding representation of the school, their musicianship, and their commitment to excellence.

Middle Country Central School District—along with many other school districts statewide—recently swore in for the first time two outstanding students as student board representatives for the 2025–2026 school year during the Board of Education’s annual organizational meeting.

Rose Miller of Centereach High School and Dyllon Blake of Newfield High School took their oaths during the meeting, marking the beginning of their roles as student liaisons to the Board of Education. Both students currently serve as Government Organization (GO) presidents at their respective schools.

Dyllon currently serves as the General Organization (G.O.) President and Vice President of the National Honor Society. He is also an active member of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, the Spanish Honor Society, and the Jazz Band. Additionally, he holds the position of Vice President of the History Club. Rose is the General Organization President and a dedicated member of several school organizations, including the Class of 2026 Club, Best Buddies Club, National Honor Society, World Language Honor Society, and the Girls Varsity Soccer Team.

As student representatives, Rose and Dyllon will provide valuable insight and perspective on behalf of their peers, helping to strengthen the connection between the student body and the Board. Rose and Dyllon’s leadership and dedication to student advocacy make them well-suited for these important roles.

“We are proud to welcome Rose and Dyllon to the Board in their capacities as student representatives,” said Dawn Sharrock, Board President. “Their voices will help guide our decisions and ensure that student concerns remain a central focus in our district initiatives.”

The Middle Country Central School District congratulates Rose and Dyllon on their appointments and looks forward to their contributions in the coming year.