Month: December 2025

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.

North Coleman Road Elementary School proudly unveiled its new sensory hallway, called Sensory Way, during an official ribbon-cutting ceremony. The celebration marks the culmination of more than a year of planning, collaboration, and dedicated work by the North Coleman Road staff, the Buildings and Grounds team, and the school’s Sensory Way Committee.

Sensory Way was thoughtfully designed to provide students with a calming, engaging environment where they can reset and regulate their emotions before returning to class. Whether a student is feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or simply full of extra energy, the sensory hallway offers a supportive space to help them refocus and re-engage in learning.

Students were invited to take their first walk through Sensory Way and explore its many interactive features. Their excitement and curiosity brought the hallway to life, showcasing exactly how this new space will benefit the school community. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by members of the Middle Country community, whose support helped make the project possible. North Coleman Road Elementary extends heartfelt appreciation to everyone who contributed to and celebrated this important milestone.

“We are thrilled to introduce Sensory Way to our students and families,” said Kim Pelan, North Coleman Road Elementary School Principal. “This hallway represents our continued commitment to supporting the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally. We look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our school community.”

North Coleman Road Elementary School is excited and proud to share Sensory Way with all of its students, staff, and families as a new anchor of support and joy in the building. 

The Selden Middle School Student Government proudly completed its annual holiday food drive, held in partnership with the Long Island Cares Food Pantry, continuing a longstanding tradition of service, compassion, and community support.

This yearly initiative plays a vital role in helping restock local food pantries during a time when many families and children face increased need. Thanks to the generosity and involvement of the entire Selden Middle School community, this year’s food drive was a tremendous success.

Students collected and carefully packaged 19 full boxes of food, totaling more than 500 donated items that will be delivered to Long Island Cares to support families throughout the region. Selden Middle School extends a heartfelt thank you to all students, families, faculty, and staff who supported this meaningful cause. Together, the community continues to make a real difference for Long Island families.

North Coleman Road Elementary School lit up with excitement during its recent Glow Run, during which students and families enjoyed a vibrant day of fun, fitness, and community spirit. Thanks to overwhelming support and participation, the Glow Run raised over $21,292 to support art in education, field day activities, and new playground equipment.

Students raced through a glowing gymnasium filled with neon lights and upbeat music, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. The room sparkled with glow bracelets and magic wands, generously provided by the school’s PTA, adding an extra layer of excitement as students dashed, danced, and cheered each other on. The North Coleman Road community extends a heartfelt thank you to the PTA for their continued dedication and support in making events like the Glow Run possible. North Coleman Road Elementary is proud of its students, staff, and families for making this year’s Glow Run a glowing success.