Middle Country Central School District Staff Members and Student are Honored at Board of Education Meeting

Several staff members and one student in the Middle Country Central School District were honored at the most recent Board of Education meeting for their exemplary achievements in their school and community.

Board of Education Trustees Deborah Mann-Rodriguez and Doreen Feldmann presented Certificates of Appreciation to District teachers Michele Bradley, Traci Bernardino, Peggy Derasmo, Lauren Filomena, Karen Stratton and Liz Scott Pothier for guiding Career and Technical Educations students as they successfully completed their Career Exploration Challenge. All teachers championed the program with pride as they helped promote it through the Middle Country Business Advisory Board.

District Director of Science and Research PK-12 Dr. Rachel Ndembera presented a Certificate of Pride to New Lane Memorial Elementary School First-Grade Teacher Alyssa Hughes, who recently received the Elementary Level Science Teacher of the Year Award from the Science Teachers Association of New York State (STANYS). She was honored for her exemplary performance as a science teacher, her outstanding leadership and her dedication to professional learning.

Dr. Ndembera also presented a Certificate of Pride to Dawnwood Middle School Science Teacher Shawn Pleickhardt, who recently received the 2025 STEM Star Teacher Award from the Long Island Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics Education Leadership Association (LISTEMELA).

District Director of ELA and Grant Funded Opportunities PK-12 Dr. Kyrie Siegel presented a Certificate of Pride to Raymond Sabini, a dedicated Jericho Elementary School fourth-grade teacher and established author known as Raymond Bean. When he isn’t teacher or writing children’s literature, Mr. Sabini dedicates his time to inspiring others and sharing his writing expertise. He has presented numerous times at the District’s Literacy and Humanities Expos and has facilitated after-school professional development sessions regarding the integration of Artificial Intelligence into the writing and publishing process. Last month, Mr. Sabini served as the keynote speaker of the Long Island Language Arts Council’s May Literacy Event.

Board of Education President Dawn Sharrock presented a Certificate of Pride to New Lane Memorial Elementary School fifth-grade student Reagan Attianese, who has qualified for the National Olympic Junior Luge team. In order to make the team, Reagan competed against 1,000 other children and completed numerous trials demonstrating her skills and dedication.    

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/.

Board of Education Trustee Deborah Mann-Rodriguez, left, and Doreen Feldmann, right, presented Certificates of Appreciation to Michele Bradley, left, Peggy Derasmo, and Liz Scott Pothier.
District Director of Science and Research PK-12 Dr. Rachel Ndembera, right, presented a Certificate of Pride to New Lane Memorial Elementary School First-Grade Teacher Alyssa Hughes, left, and Dawnwood Middle School Science Teacher Shawn Pleickhardt.
District Director of ELA and Grant Funded Opportunities PK-12 Dr. Kyrie Siegel, right, presented a Certificate of Pride to author Raymond Sabini.

Middle Country Students Sign Letters of Intent to Continue their Athletic Careers After Graduating

District Holds Spring Letter Signing to Recognize 15 Students Planning to Pursue Athletics in College

The Middle Country Central School District recently held its Spring National Letter of Intent signing event for 15 student athletes who will continue their athletic and academic careers after graduation. Students displayed pride in their future schools by wearing sweatshirts and other apparel with their colleges’ names and logos.

“These students have not only excelled in athletics, but have also demonstrated the academic commitment, leadership, and perseverance necessary for success in college and beyond,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Roberta Gerold. “We are incredibly proud of them and excited to see all that they accomplish.”

Newfield High School senior Matthew Evers will be playing football for Alfred University, Newfield High School Dylan Alberto will be joining the baseball team at Farmingdale State College and Centereach High School senior Ava Annunziata will be playing lacrosse at Wheeling University.

Centereach High School senior Daniel Kahler will be running track at SUNY Cortland, Centereach High School senior Addison Azmoun will join the equestrian team at Sacred Heart University and Newfield High School senior Joshua Hayes will be joining the basketball team at St. Joseph’s College.

Centereach High School senior Caragh Doyle will be playing softball at SUNY Old Westbury, Centereach High School senior Andrew DiMondo will be playing lacrosse at Tusculum University and Centereach High School senior Meaghan Grieco will be joining the volleyball team at Farmingdale State College.

Centereach High School senior Brooke Gullo will be playing softball at SUNY Oswego, Centereach High School senior Sarah Williams will join the track team at Stony Brook University and Centereach High School senior Grace Boland will be running track at SUNY Cortland.

Lastly, Centereach High School senior Alexa Carmody will join the basketball team at St. Joseph’s College, Centereach High School senior Nelson Oo will be joining the soccer team at Misericordia University and Centereach High School senior Thomas Doyle will be joining the football team at St. Joseph Fisher University.

This celebration marked a significant milestone in the lives of these student-athletes, as they transition from high school to collegiate competition while pursuing higher education. The District congratulates each student and their families for their hard work and dedication.

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/.

The Middle Country Central School District recently recognized 15 student athletes who signed their Letter of Intent to continue their athletic and academic careers in college.

Middle Country Honors its Class of 2025 Valedictorians and Salutatorians

District Announces the Top Students of the Class of 2025 at NHS and CHS

The Middle Country Central School District is proud to announce the top students of the Class of 2025 at Newfield High School and Centereach High School. Diya John and Jashandeep (Jash) Singhare the valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively, of Newfield High School, and Shawn Edbert and Ben Taciakare the valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively, of Centereach High School.

Newfield High School Valedictorian Diya John will complete her senior year with more than 50 college credits and the status of AP Scholar with Distinction. She was also selected as the winner of the Principal’s Leadership Scholarship awarded by the Suffolk County High School Principal’s Association.

In addition to her exceptional academic record, Diya is a member of the Districty’s Legislative Outreach Community Committee, Glamour Galz, Mock Trial Team, Dr. Gerold’s Leadership Club and the National Quill & Scroll Honor Society. In addition, she’s an active member of Newfield’s newspaper The Quadrangle, a member of the Foreign Language Honor Society, National Honor Society president, and General Organization president.

“As President of the Newfield National Honor Society, Diya is a natural leader and role model to her peers,” said Diana Cook, the district’s Library Media Specialist and National Honor Society advisor. “She is diligent, detail oriented, and truly cares about the success of her club.  Diya is always willing to help others and goes the extra mile to make sure her fellow officers and club members will be successful in everything they do from event planning, to fundraising, to volunteer work for the community.  She is the true example of a model student; always willing to help others, and always with a smile.” 

Outside of school, Diya is a volunteer teen book reviewer for the Middle Country Public Library, an art and book buddy, a member of the library’s teen advisory council and a youth volunteer with the American Red Cross’s Disaster and Humanitarian Relief efforts. She also crochets in her spare time and donates her creations to causes throughout Long Island.

This fall, Diya will study psychology at Stony Brook University as a member of the WISE program, an honors program for students pursuing STEM majors and careers. Her plans also include attending medical school with a goal of following in her mother’s footsteps and becoming a psychiatrist.

Newfield High School Salutatorian Jashandeep (Jash) Singh graduated with the rank of AP Scholar with Distinction. He is a member of the Newfield High School Pit Orchestra and Chamber Orchestra, has twice been an all-county viola player, and has earned the Varsity music award for outstanding musical achievement. He is also a member of the National Honor Society, Student Council, Mock Trial Team, Foreign Language Honor Society, Tri-M Music Honor Society. and has earned the rank of AP Scholar with Distinction.

“Jash embodies all of the characteristics set forth by our chapter: Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character,” said Ms. Cook. “He especially fits the ‘character’ trait by being a model student, an example to his peers, and an all-around nice guy who is a pleasure to be around.  Jash is always willing to help at community events and represents our school and our chapter with pride.” 

Outside of Newfield High School, Jash is a volunteer at Mather Hospital and Middle Country Public Library as a Green Teen, where he creates crafts for children, plans events and takes care of the library garden. Jash also partakes in Sewa, of selfless service, at his Sikh temple by serving food every Sunday to his congregation.

In the fall, Jash will study biology at Stony Brook University. He plans on attending medical school with a goal of becoming a general surgeon or working in internal medicine.

Centereach High School Valedictorian Shawn Edbert will graduate in June having completed 12 AP level classes and the potential to start college as a sophomore. He has played the French horn since elementary school and was selected to join the NYSSMA All-State band. He is a member of the Centereach High School Wind Ensemble and the Pit Orchestra for the school’s drama productions. Shawn was the captain and MVP of this year’s Varsity golf team, of which he was a member throughout high school, and led the CHS Robotics team to the World Championships in Texas this year.  

“Shawn exemplifies excellence in and out of the classroom,” Centereach High School Math Teacher and Genereal Organization Teacher Laura Melfi said. “He is a quiet leader, one who leads with humility, integrity and kindness.  His character and dedication make him a great role model.” 

This fall, Shawn will be studying at the University of Pennsylvania, where he plans to major in Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in Fluid Dynamics.

Centereach High School Salutatorian Ben Taciak will graduate this year having taken 16 Advanced Placement classes and one additional college level course. Ben is the CHS General Organization President, through which he planned the school’s evening Pep Rally, Homecoming Cougar Carnival, Trick or Treat Street, Volleyball Marathon, Class Competition and other successful community events.

In addition, Ben is the CHS National Honor Society President and a member of the Math team, Science Olympiad and Unified Basketball team.

“Ben is one of the most compassionate students she has had the privilege to work with,” said Ms. Melfi. “His kindness and willingness to help others shines through every day. He excels academically and has proven to be a phenomenal leader as president of Student Activities.”

Ben will attend SUNY Binghamton in the fall and plans to study Finance with a goal of becoming an investment banker. 

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/.

Newfield High School Valedictorian Diya John
Newfield High School Salutatorian Jashandeep (Jash) Singh
Centereach High School Valedictorian Shawn Edbert
Centereach High School Salutatorian Ben Taciak

Middle Country Central School District Celebrates the Top 25 Students at Centereach and Newfield High Schools

The Middle Country Central School District proudly recognized the academic excellence of 50 outstanding students during a special breakfast ceremony held at Centereach High School. The honored students represent the top 25 graduates from both the Centereach High School and Newfield High School Class of 2025.

Centereach High School Principal Thomas Bell and Newfield High School Principal Scott Graviano joined teachers and staff to celebrate the students’ hard work, dedication, and achievements throughout their high school careers.

“These students exemplify the values of academic integrity, perseverance, and excellence,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Roberta Gerold. “We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and excited to see what the future holds for each of them.”

Newfield High School honorees included Fatima Ali, Mehek Ansari, Jordan Brooks, Cole Clark, Olivia Fallon, Emma Geraci, Bryce Goodman, Emma Haberstroh, Diya John, Kayla Laccesaglia, Thomas Lasher, Julia Lizewski, Ariona Mucaj, Miranda Palumbo, Rosmalin, Paulino, Michael Ramos Cody, Benjamin Rasmussen, Madisyn Rodriguez, Addison Rothwell, Ifra Shaid, Asim Sheikh, Jashandeep Singh, Gabrielle Smoller, James Stafford III and Muhammad Zain.

Centereach High School honorees included Josangel Almonte, Eloisa Alvarez, Adrian Borawski, Kiara Callado, Yohani Chen, Emma Dawson, Lorenzo DeMarco, Aidan Eck, Shawn Edbert, Gianna Forys, Jillian Garcia, Fatima Gilani, Brooke Gullo, Kayla Gutmann, Ameera Joda, Catherine Lucero Amaya, Philip Mucha, Cara Robbert, Vanessa Roe, Leticia Ruiz, Matthew Suzzi, Benjamin Taciak, Ceylan Tastan, Sarah Williams and Allen Zeng.

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/.

The Middle Country Central School District recently celebrated its Top 25 students from each high school. They are pictured with Newfield High School Principal Scott Graviano, left, and Centereach High School Principal Thomas Bell, right.

Centereach High School Robotics Team Thrives at the 2025 VEX Robotics World Championship

The Centereach High School robotics team showcased their engineering prowess and technological skills at the 2025 VEX Robotics World Championship, held May 9–11 at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, Texas.

The prestigious international event welcomed over 840 teams from more than 45 countries, uniting the world’s top young engineering minds in a celebration of creativity, collaboration and innovation.  

Centereach’s team, named the CouGears, competed in the highly competitive Engineering Division and stood out for their technical acumen and collaborative spirit. Their outstanding sportsmanship and commitment to excellence earned them the coveted Worlds Sportsmanship Award, a distinction given to teams that exemplify kindness, respect, and teamwork both on and off the competition field.

“This recognition is a testament to the dedication and character of our students,” said Centereach High School Principal Tom Bell. “Their passion for STEM and ability to work together under pressure was on full display. We couldn’t be prouder.”

The CouGears’ success at the world championship is the culmination of months of preparation and problem-solving, reinforcing Centereach High School’s commitment to STEM education and hands-on learning opportunities.

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/.

Middle Country Central School District Celebrates Student Talent at Annual District-Wide Art Show

The Middle Country Central School District proudly showcased the creativity, talent, and dedication of its student artists at the annual district-wide art show, held recently at Centereach High School.

“The annual art show is a true celebration of student expression and creativity,” said District Director of Music, Fine Arts and Community Media Relations Dr. Diana Cook. “We are incredibly proud of the remarkable work our students produce and the dedicated educators who nurture their artistic talents throughout the year.”

Centereach High School was transformed into a vibrant art museum, featuring more than 3,000 pieces of student artwork. The festive atmosphere reflected the hard work and imaginative spirit of students from all schools across the district.

The event also included the District’s Kindergarten Folk Dance Festival, featuring a festive may pole ceremony and series of festive dances to ring in the spring. 

Students and families could witness the engaging dance festival before viewing a rich and diverse collection of visual art, encompassing various media and artistic disciplines. From intricate drawings and vivid paintings to digital designs and three-dimensional sculptures, each piece demonstrated the students’ unique perspectives and artistic development.

The event drew families, faculty, and community members together in appreciation of the arts, underscoring the district’s continued commitment to arts education and fostering student growth through creative opportunities.

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/.

Middle Country School District Boys Lacrosse Team Hosts Successful “Goals for Giving” Fundraiser

The Middle Country School District Boys Lacrosse team recently hosted its annual “Goals for Giving” fundraiser at Newfield High School, marking another successful year of community spirit and charitable giving. Organized by Regina Giambone, the event rallied widespread support from the District’s athletic department, administration, students, parents, and teams.

“We are incredibly proud of the boys lacrosse team and the entire district community for coming together in support of such a meaningful cause,” said Newfield High School Principal Scott Graviano. “It was great seeing the enthusiasm and joy in the air as everyone represented their teams, schools and Middle Country with pride.”

Funds raised during the event will directly benefit the Middle Country School District’s Special Education Program, with this year’s contributions earmarked for enhancing sensory rooms across the District’s schools by adding new, adaptive equipment.

Supporters showed their enthusiasm and solidarity by purchasing and proudly wearing event T-shirts featuring the official “Goals for Giving” logo, both during the school day and at the evening game. The event also featured a spirited 50/50 raffle and a variety of gift baskets, generously donated by local businesses and community members.

The District extends its heartfelt thanks to all who participated, contributed, and made this event possible. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for next year’s Goals for Giving!

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/.

Stagecoach Road Students are Honored with Prestigious Physical Education Award

Middle Country Central School District is proud to announce that Stagecoach Road Elementary School fifth-grade students Grace Paplia and Peter Neu have been named recipients of the 2025 Outstanding Physical Education Elementary and Middle School Award by the Suffolk Zone of the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (NYS AHPERD).

“Grace and Peter are both exemplary students who show commitment and enthusiasm to physical education, as well as in their classes and in their hallways,” said Stagecoach Road Elementary School Shaun Rothberg. “We are so proud of them for earning this very deserved honor and representing our community with pride and passion.”

The award ceremony, held on April 29th at Bay Shore High School, celebrated the achievements of 320 elementary and middle school students across Suffolk County who exemplify a commitment to physical fitness and positive character. Grace and Peter accepted their honors alongside their physical education teachers.

This prestigious recognition is awarded annually to outstanding fifth graders who not only lead active and healthy lifestyles in and out of school, but who also demonstrate exceptional sportsmanship, character, civility, and citizenship. Grace and Peter have consistently stood out as positive role models in their physical education classes, achieving remarkable scores on their fitness assessments through dedication and hard work.

The Middle Country community congratulates Grace and Peter on this well-deserved recognition.

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/.

Middle Country Central School District Board of Education Honors Several Students and Staff Members

Several students and staff members in the Middle Country Central School District were recognized at the most recent Board of Education meeting for standing out in their school and community.

Board President Dawn Sharrock presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Newfield High School senior Rosmalin Paulino for her participation in the Longwood Annual Legislative Workshop in February.

World Studies K-12 Director Amy Pacifico and Newfield High School Library Media Specialist Lisa Cook presented Certificates of Pride to several students for contributing to Long Island History Day. Participants included Newfield High School students Safina Afroz, Sreya Roy and Sylvia Zhao; Centereach High School students Grace Bender and Julia Mahoney; Selden Middle School students Shaoda Ahmed, Emma Crocco and Sarah Faridi, and Dawnwood Middle School student Aishwarya Bhatee.

Science and Research PK-12 Director Dr. Rachel Ndembera and Ms. Pacifico presented a Certificate of Pride to Ms. Cook, who was recognized by the Long Island School Library Association with the Fresh Start and Librarian of the Year awards.

Ms. Sharrock presented Certificates of Pride to Newfield High School Earth and Space Science Teacher James Nelson, Selden middle School Biology Teacher Edward Miller, and Centereach High School Math Teacher Laura Melfi in honor of them receiving the Teacher Service Award at SCOPE’s 24th Annual Awards Dinner in March.

Dr. Ndembera presented Certificates of Pride to the several students who presented their science research projects at the Long Island Science Congress, held in April at the Cradle of Aviation Museum. Newfield High School Research Teacher James Nelson was honored with his students Matthew Bedus, Julia Carter, Tiffany Gao, Umber Sharma, Peyton Grieco, Abbas Laurence, Kiera Green-Wilson and Alishba Aziz. Centereach High School Research Teacher Ms Malynda Nichol was honored with her students Isabella Koch, Nathalie Teeple, Savanna Giordano, Gavin Astefanous, Keira Maliborski, Hayah Khan, Janve Islam and Autumn Youngling.

Director of Music, Fine Arts and Community Media Relations Dr. Diana Cook presented Newfield High School senior and College Computer Graphics student Christian Gensinger with a Certificate of Recognition for designing the winning “I Voted” sticker funded by the Middle Country Education Foundation.

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/.

Newfield High School senior Rosmalin Paulino, left, was honored by Board of Education Presisdent Dawn Sharrock for her participation in the Longwood Annual Legislative Workshop in February.
Newfield High School Library Media Specialist Lisa Cook, left, and World Studies K-12 Director Amy Pacifico, right, presented Certificates of Pride to several students for contributing to Long Island History Day.
Ms. Cook left, was presented with a Certificate of Pride from Ms. Pacifico and Science and Research PK-12 Director Dr. Rachel Ndembera.
Ms. Sharrock presented Certificates of Pride to Newfield High School Earth and Space Science Teacher James Nelson, Selden middle School Biology Teacher Edward Miller, and Centereach High School Math Teacher Laura Melfi.
Students were recognized for presenting their science research projects at the Long Island Science Congress.
Dr. Cook, right, presented Newfield High School senior Christian Gensinger with a Certificate of Recognition for designing the winning “I Voted” sticker, pictured above.

Middle Country Central School District Announces April Students of the Month

The Middle Country Central School District is proud to announce the recipients of the April 2025 Students of the Month honors. The award recognizes students for their exceptional academic achievements, leadership, and contributions to their school communities. This month, four outstanding students were selected: Zachary Atkinson from Centereach High School, Logan Squillace from Newfield High School, Kara Zappasodi from Dawnwood Middle School, and Dylan Gregorio from Selden Middle School.

Centereach High School senior Zack Atkinson is a triple threat as a standout student both academically, athletically and socially. He has been on the CHS honor roll every quarter, he is an avid hockey player and a member of the CHS Junior fire department, and he runs his own business. Additionally, Zack is a singer and actor who showcased incredible range in playing Roger in the CHS musical production of Rent this year and Jack Kelly in the CHS production of Newsies last year.

“Zack is an exceptionally talented young man. He does a wonderful job in every aspect of our music department,” said Allison Bush, the band director for both musicals. “In preparing for his lead role as Roger, Zack took the time and initiative to learn to both the Electric and Acoustic Guitars specifically for the role. Zach is always willing to help with anything that the department needs. He brings great energy and enthusiasm to everything he does.”

Brian Hough, the director for both productions, also lauded Zack’s talents and said his work ethic, humility and leadership shine through daily and make him such a valued member of every ensemble.  Zack will attend Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, in the fall to study vocal performance.

Newfield High School senior Logan Squillace received 20 nominations for Student of the Month who cited his generosity, compassion and work ethic. Pamela Murolo, one of Logan’s former teachers, said “Logan is always looking to help others.  He is the student in class that looks to see how he can help when the wind blows the teacher’s papers fly to the floor or a student drops his pen.  He’s one of the most selfless students I have ever met.  He works hard in class to be successful and puts 100% effort into his academics.  Logan’s perseverance, work ethic, and motivation to succeed will ensure he does great things in life!” 

Michelle Westby, a former math teacher of Logan, said “Right out of the gate in 9th grade math, Logan was a standout student and human being. He always strived to reach his fullest potential, demonstrated maturity beyond his years, and exhibited kindness and compassion toward everyone he crossed paths with. Logan often received perfect scores on exams in my class and has continued on to more advanced math classes. He is a great example of a student who recognized early how he could utilize everything Newfield has to offer to his advantage. Logan is a wonderful role model for others as he has accomplished a great deal and has always remained extremely humble about his achievements.” 

Lastly, Margaret Derasmo, another teacher of Logan’s, said, “I had the pleasure of teaching him in Food and Nutrition, where his passion for cooking first began to shine. Since then, he has continued to develop his skills through the BOCES culinary program, showing both talent and determination.”

Logan is also on the verge of achieving the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, a reflection of his leadership and commitment to service. For his Eagle Scout project, Logan asked if he could build a memorial bench and plant a tree in the front area of Newfield High School in memory of Robert Bush.

On graduating, he will be joining the U.S. Army reserves as a cook and combinie his culinary passion with a deep desire to serve his country. From there, Logan will be attending the Pennsylvania College of Technology as a member of its culinary program.

Dawnwood Middle School eight-grade student Kara Zappasodi is described by one of her formers teachers, Kelley Paternoster, as a wonderful, confident, smart and funny student.  “I have been one of Kara’s teachers since she was in fourth grade,” she said. “I first met Kara during Covid. Although we were in the same room, we had to sit very far apart.  It was a terrible situation, but she became comfortable enough to start chatting with me. From that time forward, we always make time for chatting in the beginning of our sessions. She tells me the ‘scoop’ of what is happening in school and then asks me questions about my day. We ‘laugh, eat, work.’ Kara is truly one of my favorite students.”

“Kara regularly recommends some fantastic places to eat.  She could have a side gig as a food critic. She is also a joy to spend time with during lunch, when our schedules match up. Kara brings kindness, positivity, and extra brightness to every day,” said Math Teacher Michelle Dellapina.

 “Kara is a shining example of excellence in every sense of the word,” said Teacher Aimee Scotto. “Not only has she maintained a perfect average in ELA, she also consistently demonstrates a passion for learning. Kara is a gifted writer, using her creativity and insight to bring depth and beauty to her work. Her ELA skills are exceptional, and she is an inspiration to all!”

Kara’s overall average for her sixth and seventh-grade school years is 96.1 and Kara’s average for the first three quarters of this school year is 98.5. Outside of the classroom, she is a member of the Girl Scouts where her mother is her troop leader. Kara enjoys spending time with friends and drawing.  Kara has a photographic memory and when she sees something, she memorizes it and then draws it.  

Selden Middle School eighth-grade student Dylan Gregorio has maintained consistent grades each quarter of his middle school career and has been a fixture on his school’s Honor Roll. His favorite subject is social studies and he has a particular love for learning about the bravery and dedication of soldiers during World War I and World War II.

Dedication is something that Dylan has embraced himself and applied to his love of wrestling as an athlete for Newfield and two community teams. He looks forward to travelling out of state to New Jersey and Philadelphia to take part in tournaments there. Dylan also likes archery and the band Nirvana.

Dylan’s teachers describe him as a hard worker, a polite young man with an outstanding work ethic, a great role model and a conscientious student who leads by example.

 “He asks questions, comes for extra help, and will redo assignments until he is pleased with the results,” said Dylan’s English Language Arts teacher, Danielle Pernicone. She added that he “genuinely cares about doing well and shows great maturity.”

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/.

The Middle Country Central School District April Students of the Month are, from top-left, Centereach High School senior Zachary Atkinson, Newfield High School senior Logan Squillace, Dawnwood Middle School eight-grade student Kara Zappasodi and Selden Middle School eight-grade student Dylan Gregorio