Middle Country Central School District in the Media

On Friday, March 6, Selden Middle School proudly hosted its annual Break the Fast event, bringing together members of the school and local community for an evening centered on connection, reflection, and celebration.

Families, students, staff, district leadership, and community members gathered to share in Break the Fast, an event that recognizes the spirit of Ramadan and the tradition of breaking the daily fast at sunset. The event provided an opportunity for attendees to come together, share a meal, and celebrate the values of unity, compassion, and cultural understanding.

The evening was filled with joy and gratitude as participants reflected on the importance of community and inclusivity. Events like Break the Fast help foster a welcoming environment where students and families can share traditions and learn from one another.

Selden Middle School administrators noted that the gathering served as a powerful reminder of the strength of the school community and the meaningful connections formed when people come together to celebrate the shared values of respect, kindness, and understanding.

The school extends its appreciation to everyone who helped organize and attend the event, making the evening a memorable and uplifting celebration for all.

Students and staff across the Middle Country Central School District proudly wore purple in honor of P.S. I Love You Day 2026, embracing this year’s theme, Be the Light. The annual observance promotes mental health awareness, kindness, and inclusivity, encouraging school communities to shine a light on the importance of connection and support.

Throughout the district, schools hosted a variety of meaningful activities designed to foster positivity and open lines of communication. For example, at Newfield High School, the Cohen Strong Program joined forces with the school’s S.A.D.D. Club to support Wellness Week and P.S. I Love You Day initiatives. Students received daily handouts focused on important mental health topics and were invited to respond to the “Cohen Strong Question of the Day.” Participants also contributed to a word wall filled with messages promoting positive mental health, reinforcing a culture of encouragement within the school community.

The Newfield High School Drum Club also marked the district’s 100th day of school by celebrating P.S. I Love You Day with students at Eugene Auer Elementary School. The Drum Club performed two assemblies where elementary students enthusiastically played along. Following the performances, Drum Club members visited classrooms for a meet-and-greet alongside the school’s friendly “Grimace” mascot. As a special gesture, the Drum Club gifted each classroom with purple mindful mindset bags filled with healthy mindset goodies and personal journal entries written by Drum Club students. The heartfelt messages promoted self-worth, kindness, and reminded every student that they matter.

At North Coleman Road Elementary School, the celebration extended throughout the week. Students decorated the building with hearts featuring motivational statements and participated in “Chalk the Walk,” filling hallways with uplifting and kind messages. Together, staff and students embraced the “Be the Light” theme by promoting inclusivity and ensuring that every member of the school community feels valued and supported.

Meanwhile, at Selden Middle School, students made a heartfelt contribution to the districtwide initiative. Ms. Scott’s sixth-grade Family and Consumer Sciences students created self-esteem snowflakes, while seventh graders designed color-scheme-inspired hearts—simple yet powerful projects centered on kindness, confidence, and self-care. In a touching extension of the day’s mission, Ms. Scott delivered 136 handcrafted hearts to veterans at the Long Island State Veterans Home. The hearts were created by Selden Middle School students, their families, and faculty members, reflecting a true community effort.

Through creative activities, meaningful conversations, and acts of service, students and staff across the Middle Country Central School District demonstrated that even small gestures can make a powerful impact. By choosing to “be the light,” the school community once again affirmed its commitment to supporting mental health awareness and building a culture of compassion and connection.

The Middle Country Central School District proudly celebrated Black History Month across its high schools with dynamic, student-led programs honoring Black history, culture, and contributions. Both Newfield High School and Centereach High School hosted meaningful events that brought together students, staff, and community members in celebration and reflection.

At Newfield High School, students organized an engaging and educational program that showcased artistic expression, musical talent, and thoughtful dialogue. The event was facilitated by student Sreya Roy and opened with a powerful performance of the Black National Anthem. The program continued with spirited performances by the school’s Drum Club and talented student dancers, highlighting the vibrancy and influence of Black culture in the arts.

A special highlight of the celebration was guest speaker Dr. Judith Brown Clark, who delivered inspiring remarks and engaged students in a meaningful Q&A session. Her discussion encouraged reflection on leadership, perseverance, and the ongoing pursuit of equity and opportunity.

Students also presented a moving Mask Art Exhibit. Each participant designed a personal mask and spoke about the symbolism behind their work, explaining what each element represented or meant to them. The exhibit provided a powerful platform for self-expression, identity exploration, and storytelling.

The celebration concluded with refreshments and continued conversations among attendees, reinforcing a strong sense of community and appreciation.

Centereach High School hosted its Black History Celebration, a student-facilitated event supported by teacher advisors Patricia Duryea and Vanessa Matlock. The program began with a stirring rendition of the Black National Anthem performed by Jaleeyah Cortes. Students then welcomed guest speaker Deborah Mann-Rodriguez, a Trustee on the district’s Board of Education, who shared her insights and experiences with the audience. Her remarks emphasized civic engagement, representation, and the importance of student voice.

The celebration featured several vibrant dance performances and a powerful “Past to Present” short drama. The performance traced the evolution of the struggles Black people once faced, highlighting the many rights, opportunities, and freedoms that were denied to them in the past and contrasting them with the progress achieved today. The event concluded with an energetic Soul Train Line, inviting audience members to join in the dance floor festivities—an interactive and joyful finale that brought the entire community together.

Through music, art, dance, and dialogue, Middle Country Central School District’s high schools created meaningful opportunities for students to honor Black history while celebrating culture, creativity, and unity. The district commends the students, advisors, performers, and guest speakers who made these events impactful and memorable for all involved.

—New Lane Memorial Elementary School proudly announced that Alyssa Hughes, a first-grade teacher, was awarded a generous grant from Tanger Outlets. Ms. Hughes used the grant funds to purchase new outdoor recess equipment, enhancing student play opportunities and promoting physical activity for young learners.

The newly purchased equipment provided students with engaging, developmentally appropriate ways to stay active during recess while supporting physical, social, and emotional growth.

Representatives from Tanger Outlets visited New Lane Memorial Elementary School to formally present Ms. Hughes with an award, along with flowers and a gift basket. During the visit, Tanger Outlets representatives took photos with students and staff to commemorate the occasion and celebrate the partnership between the school and the community.

Selected eighth-grade students from Dawnwood Middle School and Selden Middle School recently presented their research projects to an audience of teachers, administrators, and members of the Board of Education during the district’s National History Day Symposium.

Participants were chosen by their Social Studies teachers in recognition of their exceptional dedication, curiosity, and commitment to the research process. This year’s National History Day theme, “Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History,” challenged students to examine pivotal moments and movements that shaped societies and sparked change throughout history. Students showcased their findings through a variety of formats, including interactive websites, digital presentations, and formal research papers, highlighting months of in-depth historical inquiry, critical analysis, and creative presentation.

The district extends special recognition to its eighth-grade Social Studies teachers for inspiring student scholarship and skillfully guiding participants through every stage of the research process. These projects represent a cornerstone of the district’s capstone research initiative, designed to foster civic engagement, analytical thinking, and academic excellence. As a result of their participation, students will earn credit toward the New York State Seal of Civic Readiness, reflecting their commitment to informed citizenship and historical understanding.

Several students will continue refining their projects alongside their National History Day advisors—Ms. Cook at Selden Middle School and Mr. Dovas at Dawnwood Middle School as they prepare to compete in the Long Island History Day competition at Hofstra University this March. The district congratulates all participating students and educators for their outstanding work and dedication to historical scholarship.

Newfield High School art students recently participated in an enriching cultural field trip to The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) in New York City, combining artistic exploration with memorable recreational experiences.

During the visit, students explored the world-renowned museum’s extensive collections, gaining firsthand exposure to masterworks spanning centuries and cultures. The trip provided students with the opportunity to study artistic techniques, styles, and historical contexts, enhancing their classroom learning through direct engagement with fine art.

Following their time at The Met, students had the option to bring lunch or eat at Wollman’s skating rink cafe, with views of Manhattan from Central Park. The day concluded with an exciting ice-skating experience, providing students with an opportunity to relax, have fun, and bond with their classmates after a day of learning.

The trip offered a perfect blend of education, culture, and recreation, leaving students inspired and energized. Newfield High School continues to support experiential learning opportunities that broaden students’ perspectives and foster creativity beyond the classroom.

The Middle Country Central School District (MCCSD) hosted a Legislative Priority Planning Day on Friday, December 12, 2025, bringing together student leaders for a full day of immersive civic engagement and advocacy training.

The event involved members of the district’s Student Legislative Ad Hoc Committee, which is composed of 50 students in grades 9 through 12 from Centereach High School and Newfield High School. Throughout the day, students participated in hands-on workshops and discussions designed to strengthen their understanding of government, advocacy strategies, and legislative priorities as they prepare for the district’s second annual Legislative Advocacy Day, scheduled for February 2026 at the New York State Capitol in Albany.

Students had the opportunity to learn directly from distinguished guest speakers who shared insights into the legislative process and the importance of civic participation. Guest speakers included Assemblyman Doug Smith, Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay, Board of Education President Dawn Sharrock, Superintendent Dr. Roberta Gerold, and Assistant Superintendent for Business Dr. Beth Rella. Each provided mentorship and guidance on effective advocacy, policymaking, and the functioning of state government.

The Legislative Priority Planning Day underscored the district’s commitment to fostering student voice and civic responsibility. By engaging students in real-world policy discussions and advocacy preparation, the Middle Country Central School District continues to empower young leaders to become informed and active participants in the democratic process.

Selden Middle School’s Yearbook Club and staff proudly teamed up this year with Stony Brook Hospital’s CICU Level 5 Unit to support a meaningful community initiative benefiting EJSPJs (Emma & Jack’s Safe PJs). Through this collaborative effort, the Selden Middle School community successfully collected over 65 pairs of cozy pajamas for children in need.

The initiative was met with tremendous generosity and enthusiasm from Selden Middle School students and staff, whose donations helped make a positive impact on families served by EJSPJs. The school extends heartfelt thanks to the Stony Brook CICU Level 5 staff for their partnership and support throughout the collection.

Selden Middle School was also honored to welcome Ms. Patricia Poggi and Mr. Kevin LaValle, who visited the school to show their support for this meaningful cause. Their presence further highlighted the importance of community collaboration and giving back.

Selden Middle School is proud of its Yearbook Club members for leading this effort and demonstrating compassion, teamwork, and civic responsibility. Together, this partnership helped bring comfort and warmth to children who need it most.

Middle Country’s Centereach High School’s College Business Law students experienced an immersive look at the American legal system during a visit recently with Judge Joseph Bianco of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York in Central Islip.

During the visit, students observed a moving naturalization ceremony, during which more than 75 individuals took the Oath of Allegiance and were sworn in as new U.S. citizens. Witnessing this milestone offered students a powerful perspective on the responsibilities and significance of American citizenship.

Following the ceremony, Judge Bianco spoke with the students, sharing reflections from his 30-year career in law, including insights into federal judicial service, public service, and the evolving demands of the legal profession. His remarks provided students with a rare, candid view into the work of the federal courts and the importance of integrity within the justice system. The educational trip concluded with students participating in a mock trial exercise, assuming roles such as judge, attorney, and juror. The interactive activity allowed students to apply classroom learning in a realistic courtroom setting, strengthening their understanding of trial procedures, legal reasoning, and courtroom etiquette.

“This experience brought the law to life,” said Ms. Michele Bradley, College Business Law teacher. “Students not only observed the profound moment of new citizens being welcomed to the country, but also engaged directly with the judicial process.” 

The visit reinforced Centereach High School’s College Business Law’s commitment to experiential learning, offering students a meaningful opportunity to connect legal theory with real-world practice while gaining a deeper appreciation of the path to citizenship and the workings of the federal court system.

Newfield Theatre Arts proudly wrapped up its weekend production of the family-friendly drama The Day the Internet Died.

The show captivated audiences, bringing to life the story of a small town where the internet unexpectedly went down for an entire week. Through humor and heartfelt moments, the play explored how townspeople—especially the younger generation—coped with the sudden loss of the internet and their dependence on it for everyday tasks. Laughter filled the theatre as characters navigated the chaos of a world suddenly unplugged.

“Directing The Day the Internet Died was an absolute joy,” said Katelyn Austin, Co-Director of The Day the Internet Died. “Our cast poured their hearts into bringing this story to life, and it was incredible to watch audiences connect with both the humor and the message. Seeing the community come together to support our students and celebrate live theatre made it truly unforgettable.”

Newfield Theatre Arts extends its gratitude to everyone who attended. The organization looks forward to welcoming the community back for future performances.