The District News - Center Moriches School District

The District News
The Newspaper of the Center Moriches School District
Volume 18 Number 5
www.cmschools.org
July 2012
Community Service - Above and Beyond - 100 Point Club
Featured
Articles
Summer
Literacy Tips
Page 5
Box Top
News
Page 10
Special
Achievements
Page 13
BOE Committee
Sign-up
Page 16
Altruism is Alive
at Center
With only a year under its belt, the newly implemented Community Service Involvement Program
(CSIP) has witnessed great
success at the high school.
The program focuses on
exposing students to community involvement by allotting points to various
activities, clubs, athletic
teams, and charitable events
that go beyond the normal
classroom experience. The
purpose of the program is
Center Moriches High School students in the CSIP 100 Point Club are congratulated by Mrs. Turpin and Principal Mr. Casswell. Students, from left to right: Jason Albert, Kira Oldham, Nicholas Perricone, Robert VanDenHeuvel, Alyssa Fanizzi, Ihsan Wahedi, Sarah Volkmann, Maria Gerdik, Rachel Ferrante, Marisa Janik, Sarah
Ferrante, and Rachel Svendsen. Not pictured: Doug Matonis, Michael Valentine, and Michael Brantmeyer.
The Community Service &
Involvement Program (CSIP) had a
great first year! Our first school-wide
community service project was our
participation in the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Walk
on October 13, 2011. Our second
school-wide community service project took place on May 29, 2012, when
we participated in the ALS Ride for
Life and welcomed Chris Pendergast.
Forty-five students raised over $2,200
for this worthy cause.
Students in grades 9 through 12
earned CSIP points not only by joining CMHS teams and clubs, but also
through their participation in activities through the Moriches Community Center, the Athletic Booster Club,
the Poospatuck Community Center,
Stony Brook University, the CMFD,
the CMPTA, Relay for Life, the Ketcham Inn, CHAMP, the Fire Island
National Seashore, SAVES, Inc., and
BOCES.
Many of our students have gone
above and beyond the CSIP requirements and embraced the idea of becoming more active in their school
and community. A special breakfast
was held on June 7, 2012, to honor
15 students who earned 100 or more
CSIP points this year. The conversation during breakfast centered around
the ways in which these students got
involved.
Sisters Rachel and Sarah Ferrante went to Puerto Rico as missionaries
for two weeks last summer. “It was
interesting to see how people lived.
We did everything, even repaired
holes in someone’s roof,” said Sarah.
Rachel added, “At the end it was great
to look back at all we accomplished.”
A number of these students are
involved at the Moriches Community
Center, participating in a variety of
activities including Open Recreation
Night and Santa’s Workshop. Several
students remarked on how rewarding
it is to work with younger students.
According to senior Michael Valentine, “The younger kids look up to
the older ones. It’s important to set a
good example and be a role model.”
Other students discussed performing service through their church
groups and the Rotary Club. Junior
Continued on page 5
Center Moriches UFSD
529 Main Street
Center Moriches, New York 11934
*****ECRWSS**
POSTAL PATRON
Marisa Janik spoke of her life-changing volunteer work at an orphanage in
Uganda. She plans to return there next
year and to eventually pursue a degree
in missional studies. Freshman Sarah
Volkmann has volunteered her time as
both a lacrosse and a sailing instructor. She added, “Seeing the younger
students grow and giving them a skill
they will have for a lifetime and can
pass on to their own kids is amazing.”
Our students continue to make
their mark in our school community and beyond concerning service
and involvement. Freshman Michael
Brantmeyer and Mr. Casswell will
spend an entire day with World War II
veterans in Washington, D.C., through
the Honor Flight organization (see article and pictures on page 3). CSIP is
not limited to the confines of a school
year. This altruistic community initiative knows no boundaries, and its
impact on our world is limitless. Our
remarkable students truly know the
meaning and rewards of community
service and involvement. They are to
be commended for giving so freely of
their time and talents!
By: Mrs. Turpin, CSIP Advisor
Non-Profit Organization
BULK RATE
US Postage Paid
Center Moriches, NY 11934
Permit No. 7
2
July 2012
The District News
Notable Entries in the History Books
The Class of 2012
By: Ricardo Soto, Associate Principal
Valedictorian
Victoria Holborow
The Center Moriches High School family has seen record breaking numbers this
year with its graduating class. This year,
the high school graduated 127 students,
and the accomplishments of these studious
youngsters is worth mentioning:
• 95% of our seniors earned a Regents
Diploma. This diploma is awarded to students that have completed the mandatory
state defined 22 credits of study, and pass
five Regents examinations (English Language Arts, Global History, United States
History, Integrated Algebra, and a Science
Salutatorian
Alexis Parlato
Examination).
• 43% of the graduates were awarded a Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation. This
diploma is awarded to students that have passed eight Regents Examinations (English Language Arts, Global History,
United States History, Integrated
Algebra, Geometry, Algebra 2/
The Newspaper of the Center Moriches School District
Trigonometry, and two Science
Examinations), and completed
Board of Education
three years of study in a ForMr. Joseph W. McHeffey, President
eign Language and successfully
Mrs. Wendy R. Turkington, Vice President
passed the language assessment.
Mr. Daniel Finnegan, Trustee
• 94% of our seniors have post
Mr. Thomas R. Hogan, Trustee
secondary plans to attend instiMrs. Heather Schaub-Magill, Trustee
tutions of higher education such
Mrs. Patricia A. Galietta, District Clerk
as: the University of Wisconsin,
Ms. Diane M. Smith, District Treasurer
Cooper Union, Tulane University, SUNY Maritime, SUNY
Administration
Stony Brook, and Polytechnic
Mr. Russell J. Stewart, Superintendent
Institute of New York University.
Ms. Lynda G. Adams, Deputy Superintendent
There is no doubt that this seMs. Carol M. Perkins CPA, School Business Official
nior class will, like many classes beMr. John W. Allen, Assistant to the Superintendent
fore them, make the Center Moriches
community very proud of the educaMr. Michael Cruz, Director of Special Education
tional system that it has supported
Mr. Jeremy Thode, Director of Health, Physical
for many years.
Education, Business, Fine & Applied Arts
These accomplishments are
and Athletics
historic, because they represent some
Mr. Edward Casswell, High School Principal
of the highest rates in the Center
Mr. Ricardo Soto, High School Associate Principal
Moriches School District’s history.
Mrs. Patricia Cunningham, Middle School Principal
The information above does not just
Mrs. Kim Hardwick, Elementary School Principal
speak to the accomplishments of test
scores or post secondary plans, but
Contact
speaks a greater message about the
Center Moriches
spirit of the Center Moriches ComUnion Free School District
munity. This is a community that
529 Main Street
values the essence of education, a
Center Moriches, NY 11934
community that pushes its stewards
(administrators and staff) to encourTel: (631) 878-0052
age its children to reach their highest
Fax: (631) 878-4326
potential, fights for every win and
accepts with humility the lessons
Editors-in-Chief
learned from its defeats, and will
Mr. Russell J. Stewart
work together to defeat any and all
Mr. John W. Allen
obstacles that act to prevent its progress. It is with this spirit that we, the
Layout Design
Center Moriches Community, will
Starboard Media, Inc.
continue to grow and add notable
historic notations to every document
www.cmschools.org
that references our home.
The District News
Tylin Adams
Lauren Albano
Jason Albert
Kianie Angeles
James Argyropoulos
Dylan Barone
Travis Baskerville
Kimberly Bearese
Nicole Beierle
Myles Bell
Erica Bellomo
Alex Berchin
Layla Bieniewicz
Annika Bouchard
Christopher Brady
Rebecca Brennan
Rebecca Brockmann
Brittany Buxton
Justin Cabrera
Melissa Campbell
Luke Cimmino
Patrick Clark
Drew Comanda
Patrick Coyle
Kevin D’Amico
David Delong
Jessica DeRosa
Joshua Dietz
Mikel Distefano
Alyssa Duchesne
Scott Dunkirk
Steven Ebert
Shaki Edwards
Thomas Erickson
Samantha Fitzgerald
Tyler Fleet
Alex Forman
Jeffrey Foster, Jr.
Shawn Fremgen
Dillon Gagnon
Joseph Gallo
Kelsey Glanzman
Dionna Goldstein
Shelby Gordon
Jessica Gosney
Alexander Hamilton
Jarrett Hanwright
Maleek Harris
Wayne Harris
Amathyst Harrison
Victoria Holborow
Jaclyn Iannacone
Kenneth Kanige
Zabiah Khan
Gabrielle Kreuscher
James Lagomarsino
Alicia Leary
Darien Leary
Michael Lemmen
Michael Leone
Nikole Magliano
Danielle Marchese
Nuquan Mathis
Giedrius Matonis
Mario Mayen
Matthew McCarthy
Lauren McDonald
Kelsey McGonigle
Megan McGonigle
John McMahon
Kristen Miglionico
Kandice Miller
Miranda Miller
Jessica Molina
Francesca Monaco
Jessica Moore
Brendan Morris
Matthew Morrison
Samantha Nankervis
Christopher Niemynski
Joseph Nizza
Colleen Nohilly
Michael Oldham
Jessica Oswalt
Alexis Parlato
Sean Paul
Jonnathan Penaranda
Michael Perricone
Joanna Pizzo
Alexander Pomposello
Sarah Powell
Benjamin Primus
Ashley Ramirez
Adam Raynor
Sarah Reich
Daniel Rey
Frank Rinaldi
Richard Ringhoff
Salena Robles
Timothy Rowland, Jr.
Victoria Ryan
Jordan Sanders
Anthony Sarno
Molly Schaefer
Matthew Schilling
Courtney Schneidawin
Zachary Schrage
Alison Schucht
Nicholas Simone
Tyler Simpson
Shameeka Singleton
Jeremy Smith
Joseph Springman
Lena Stafford
David Steeves
Ian Sullivan
Lichen Sun
Wendy Szabo
Patrick Teich
Carolyn Turkington
Michael Valentine
Ariana Wallace
Jordan Walther
Brooke Ward-Adams
Trevor Wruck
Dillon Xerri
Katerina Zachery
July 2012
Honor Flight:
3
The District News
WWII Veterans Travel to Washington, D.C.
By: Edward Casswell, High School Principal
On Saturday June 9, 2012,
freshman Michael Brantmeyer
and high school principal, Mr.
Casswell, traveled to Washington,
D.C., and helped escort World
War II veterans to the WWII Memorial. They participated in a nation-wide effort to provide “The
Greatest Generation” with an
opportunity to visit our nation’s
capitol and experience the World
War II Memorial “up close and
personal.” This effort was spearheaded by Honor Flight, a national charitable organization with 92
chapters across the United States.
When the World War II Memorial opened in 2004, it became
apparent that many veterans (in
their eighties and nineties) would
never be able to visit the memorial. Over sixteen million men
and women served in the Armed
Forces during World War II. It is
estimated that approximately two
million veterans are living nationwide and fifty thousand are living on Long Island. Honor Flight
Long Island is the local chapter
that facilitated the June 9th trip.
Since 2004, Honor Flight has
flown over sixty thousand veterans to see the Memorial for free,
and the Long Island branch has
sent over seven hundred.
Thirty World War II veterans gathered at MacArthur Airport early in the morning. Each
veteran was assigned a “guardian” to escort them on their journey to Washington, D.C. Michael
Brantmeyer was paired with Mr.
Louis Dworkin, who served in the
United States Army Infantry 75th
Division 291st Regiment Company B. Mr. Dworkin received the
Bronze Star for his heroics during
the Battle of the Bulge.
Mr. Casswell was partnered
with two individuals, Mr. Joseph
Faderi and Mr. Harry Cariddi.
Mr. Faderi served in the United
States Navy, and was assigned to
the USS Nassau CVE-16 (aircraft
carrier escort). Mr. Faderi saw action in the Pacific theatre; specifically the Marshall, Gilbert, and
Palau islands, and participated in
the liberation of the Philippines.
Mr. Cariddi served in the Army
301st Company G Infantry, and
fought in the Battle of the Bulge.
Both Mr. Faderi and Mr. Cariddi
worked for various Ford Dealerships in civilian life and have
been close friends for many years.
The bond between the veterans and their “guardians” was
instantaneous! As the day continued, it felt like that they knew
each other for years! The day’s
experience certainly had a life-altering effect on both Michael and
Mr. Casswell.
Michael reported being a
bit nervous before meeting his
assigned veteran, but quickly relaxed when he met Mr. Dworkin.
According to Michael: “Lou is
one of the kindest people I have
ever met. He told me stories
about where he fought during the
war and the things he did. Most of
the veterans had not spoken about
their experiences at all before this
event. They just wanted to get on
with their lives after the war, get
a job, start a family and act like
nothing happened.”
When reflecting upon the
value of this experience, Michael
went on to say, “I think the best
part of the trip was when I got to
see the faces of all the veterans
(especially Lou’s) when they saw
the World War II Memorial. All
of a sudden, their faces lit up with
pride and happiness! We took a
lot of pictures and Lou shook a lot
of hands. At one point he said, “Is
this what the President feels like?”
I am still going to keep in touch
with Lou and I am going to call
him from time to time to see how
everything is. He talked about
how much he loves his wife and
family many times throughout the
day and about all the things he did
when he was younger.”
“I learned two life lessons from Lou; never give up on
the things you love and that you
should never get caught up with
the bad things that happen in your
life. Rather, you should always
focus on the good things.”
Michael Brantmeyer and Mr. Louis Dworkin
Mr. Faderi’s daughter, Mr. Faderi, Mr. Casswell, and Mr. Cariddi
Michael
Brantmeyer
and Mr.
Casswell
4
July 2012
The District News
Authors Unlimited a Literary Success
On April 28, the Public Libraries of Suffolk County, along
with St. Joseph’s College, held the
second annual “Authors Unlimited”
event on the campus of St. Joseph’s
College in Patchogue. “Authors
Unlimited” is a full day event that
gives teens the chance to meet and
speak with authors of young adult
books.
The day began with the red
carpet arrival of sixteen authors,
including George O’Connor, Paul
Griffon, and Jenny Han. This was
followed by a question and answer
session with all of the authors.
Questions centered on the books
that they wrote, the writing process,
their hobbies, and anything else the
students were curious about.
One person asked, “If they
were to make a movie about your
life, what actor would you want to
play you?” The answers varied from
George Clooney to Justin Beiber.
After the Q&A, the authors moved
to smaller rooms to begin individual sessions. The sessions varied depending on the author. Some talked
about a new book, some simply had
another question and answer session about their book(s), and others read a selection from a previous
Award winning
children’s author,
Kwame Alexander,
made time in his
busy schedule to
read his latest publication, “Acoustic
Rooster and His
Barnyard Band,” to
our second grade
students.
Children giggled
and laughed as they
participated in the
read-aloud, anticipating words within the story that told
the tale of a rooster
who puts together
his own jazz band.
This unique story
includes
characters’ names that are
amusing and hail
from jazz legends.
book. There were four sessions so
attendees could visit with several
authors throughout the day.
I was lucky enough to be a
volunteer for the event. By coincidence, one of the other volunteers
I was teamed with is also a Center
Moriches student, a seventh grader
named Brynna Moran. As volunteers, our job was to assist the author with anything he might need,
and act as campus guides to assure
that he ended up where he was supposed to be.Our author was Daniel
Nayeri, the author of several books,
including “Another Faust,” and
“Straw House, Wood House, Brick
House, Blow,” both of which I enjoyed reading. We all worked well
together, and Mr. Nayeri was very
nice. He answered our questions
about his books, and even signed
our books before the public book
signing.
The last event, and the highlight of the day, was the book signing. There was a large table filled
with the authors’ books for purchase. The authors themselves were
each given a table where they could
sign the books for their fans. Some
lines wrapped around the auditorium, others had a steady flow. One
Photo by Jocelyn Kaleita
By: Elias Saether, Ninth Grade Student
Seventh grader Brynna Moran and ninth grader Elias Saether applied
and were selected to be members of Author Daniel Nayeri entourage at
Authors Unlimited held at St. Joseph’s College on April 28, 2012. Library Media Specialist Bonnie Bredes was a member of the planning
committee for the program.
author, George O’Connor, drew a
quick illustration in each book. It
was fun to see how excited some
people were to meet an author, and
how others would come to see one
author, and end up becoming interested in, and buying books, from
other authors they hadn’t heard of
before.
Al l Tha t Jazz!
Authors Unlimited was a
great event to volunteer for. I met
some great authors, learned a bit
about writing, and had a lot of fun.
This event was perfect for teens
who enjoy reading or who may be
considering a writing career. I look
forward to the next “Authors Unlimited.”
You can purchase
a copy from Amazon.com if interested, as the book
offers a great opportunity to teach
your child about the
history of jazz, and
motivates interest in
this music genre.
The message of
the story is a good
one as well, teaching children to
strive for what they
wish to do and to not
give up on a dream.
It is so important to
engage children in
experiences such as
this, as we work toward creating a culture of readers who
are excited to pick
up a book!
July 2012
5
The District News
Encouraging Literacy at Clayton Huey
What is literacy? It is the ability to
read and write. The ability to read
and write sounds so basic, so simple,
but yet it is what the teachers and
students work on each day here at
Clayton Huey. Whether it is during
a Mathematics lesson, a Science lesson or an ELA lesson, your child is
being challenged to read and write.
Students are not always so excited to read and write. Let’s face
it… it’s getting nicer out, the birds
are chirping, the sun is shining, their
focus is quickly changing, as the season has quickly changed. Reading
and writing, which is part of their everyday tasks, may become more of a
chore or nuisance for them, as their
focus changes.
Why am I writing in? My name is
Michelle Mitchell and I am the Literacy Chairperson working as a volunteer for Kim Hardwick, Principal
at Clayton Huey Elementary School.
When Mrs. Hardwick sent out an announcement that she was looking for
volunteers to start this committee,
I visited her almost immediately. I
was extremely interested in this opportunity. I have elementary school
teaching experience, where I assisted
in maintaining both 1st and 4th grade
classrooms, and also taught remedial
mathematics to 1st-5th graders.
My passion however was always literacy. As an “A” student all
throughout my education career, I
sit back and wonder how I made it
through. I disliked reading in school
so much. I would read a book and
would find myself thinking of everything else other than focusing on
the subject matter, then getting to
the bookstore to purchase the Cliff’s
notes to be able to answer the teacher’s questions the next day regarding
the chapters I read! I wonder how I
maintained an “A” average, but I did.
Today, I do not think I would make it
through as an “A” student, if were to
read a book that way.
Then I think about the fact
that I did like to read some things…
I loved to read biographies, books
by certain authors and about certain
countries’ foods and cultures. These
books were of interest to me and I
think back and realize that it’s because when given the choice, I chose
these books and enjoyed to read
them…Hmm…
I now teach Business Courses
at Suffolk Community College and
often times I find my students drifting off when we read something during class time. My goal is to make
it as interesting for them before we
read, to get them excited and curious
to read, and to make them eager to
answer questions because they are
confidently reading the text. I have
found what works for my students.
Give them a choice. Don’t make
them read the story on the history of
Advertising when their interest lies
more in Marketing and Advertising
for the latest craze…the latest Apple
inventions! When given the choice,
students tend to comprehend more
and will find it more interesting. You
may even trigger a topic that interests them so much that their future
career is somehow linked to their interest found in school! Go figure!
Now that you have an understanding of my background, let me
introduce you to the Literacy Committee. This committee, founded by
Kim Hardwick two years ago, has a
goal to make the children in grades
K-5 excited to read! We are a group
of volunteers that work very hard to
organize different themed events for
your children. We understand that a
Princess and Pirate event or a Cooking for Fun event is not for all of
your children out there, that’s why
we have so many themed events to
choose from! The goal of the committee is NOT to have the parent take
their children to every event, but the
By: Michelle Mitchell
Mitchell, Literacy Cha
Chairperson
goal is to expose them to the flyers bracelets at the end. Another activity
that go out, see if there is an inter- was Diary of the Wimpy Kid. This
est, and if there is, take them to the event was organized by Dina LaRocevent! Why make the child read Di- ca, Mrs. Esp, Mrs. Hanzl and Mrs.
ary of a Wimpy Kid books just to go Monell. This event was wonderful
to the event when the child dislikes because it included a trivia game
that series? Perhaps The 39 Clues for the students, a BINGO game, a
is more their speed, which is great, “guess the character game…All relybecause we have an event upcoming ing on the students’ comprehension
that is based on that series! See, it’s of the different books in the series.
that simple. See what the child is interested in and this way the reading Why do I do what I do? I cannot tell
will be that much more interesting you how much I enjoy running this
and fun for them and they will find committee. It honestly brings such
the LOVE for reading.
me such joy to see children so excited to come to the events and so
What we need from you! Please eager to start reading! I love that my
come to these events! Please vol- 3rd grader is so confident when she
unteer for an event if you can! We is asked questions about The Diary
would love to have you! We need of the Wimpy Kid and is so eager and
help, ideas are always welcome, and proud to answer them! It makes me
most of all, the students are always so happy to hear my kindergarten girl
welcome!
say, “You know mom, I really like
dinosaurs now, I want to get more
What do these events offer? We pick dinosaur books tomorrow!” after ata series of books or a topic and then tending the dinosaur event. At The
we formulate literacy-themed events Diary of the Wimpy Kid event, Carthat are fun and encourage students mela Lucido, a mom of a preschooler
to participate. For example, Heather and 3rd grader, who is an active volReed and Dawn DiPeri organized a unteer for this committee, said, “You
Dinosaur themed event for the K-1st know, it is a challenge to get my son
graders. Each station allowed a stu- to read sometimes. But, when he
dent to listen to a Dinosaur picture heard about this event, he immedibook, then the students participated ately began reading the books in the
in a dinosaur activity, such as finding series, for a second time, and he re“fossils” in a tote of “sand” and when ally enjoyed them!” THIS is why I
they found the fossil, they would do what I do.
read the word that is on it. Then,
Please express an interest and
they were asked to recall when that appreciation for literacy to your
word was used in the book. Another children. It is so important for your
fun event was Friendship Night, or- children, K-5…because one day they
ganized by Tina Pascucci. Here, she will be in college and let’s face it,
had children read friendship themed you do not want them buying Cliff’s
books with their friends, they were Notes from the local bookstore to
then able to choose a discussion understand the novel they read to get
card, which encouraged the “friends” through the test the next day…those
to discuss their favorite parts of the days are over!
books, discuss certain characters,
We look forward to seeing you
and so on. They also participated and hearing from you! Please feel
in a game, “How well do you know free to contact me anytime at MIyour friend?” and made friendship CHL22@optonline.net.
Altruism is Alive at Center
Continued from page 1
to give students an understanding
and appreciation for the value of
community involvement and service. It is the hope that students
will take these lessons and translate them to a life that is dedicated
to improving the world around
them. Students, grades 9-12, are
asked to gather ten points, document them, and register them with
the program advisor.
Although the organizers
of this great, altruistic program
imagined some natural bumps in
the road its first year, they could
not imagine that 100% of this
year’s senior class would complete
the requirements of the CSIP program. Considering that this is the
first year that it was introduced to
the faculty, students, and community this feat of 100% completion
is nothing more than astounding
and speaks volumes for the commitment of the parents and students that reside in this wonderful
town that we call Center Moriches.
We look forward to continuing the
fight to provide the best education
possible for our students and bet-
tering the world through our commitment to a comprehensive character education program and the
great work of CSIP. We sincerely
thank the community for its support of CSIP and the altruistic
growth of our students!
By: Ricardo Soto,
Associate Principal
6
The District News
July 2012
CLAYTON HUEY ELEMENTARY TO RECEIVE MAJOR SAFETY IMPROVEMENT
A dangerous street crossand I am looking forward to a
ing for students and parents
safer crossing for the parents
at Clayton Huey Elementary
and students at Clayton Huey
School in Center Moriches
Elementary School.”
is being remedied by Suffolk
“I sought out many officials
County’s Department of Pubto address this dangerous situlic Works thanks to the efforts
ation but did not make a lot of
of Legislator Kate Browning
progress,” stated Kevin Gwinn,
(WF-Shirley) and President
President of SEPTA. “Within
Kevin Gwinn of the Center
days of reaching out to LegisMoriches Special Education
lator Browning she met with
Parent Teacher Association
me. She is truly the voice of the
(SEPTA). Funding for a signalpeople in Center Moriches and
ized mid-block cross walk was
was sympathetic to the needs
secured by Legislator Brownof our children. I can’t thank
ing in Suffolk County’s 2013
her enough for acting quickly.
capital budget on Montauk
Within four months the legislaHighway at the King Kullen
tor secured the needed funding
shopping center, which is lofor this project.”
cated across the street from the
“I want to send my deepest
school.
gratitude to all of the individuPresident Gwinn of SEPals who dedicated themselves
TA has been advocating for the Superintendent Russell Stewart (left to right), President Kevin Gwinn of SEPTA, Legislator
to this project,” stated Superinmuch needed safety improve- Kate Browning, Center Moriches School District Business Official Carol Perkins, and Astendent Russell Stewart. “Mr.
ment since 2011 and worked sistant to the Superintendent John Allen stand at the location of the dangerous crossing that Kevin Gwinn, president of
with Legislator Browning to will be improved for student safety.
the CMSEPTA, who tirelessly
gain support for the $150,000
campaigned for the installation
project. For years parents have been utilizing the parking lot and a new traffic signal will be installed of an easily accessible intersection and crosswalk
King Kullen parking lot as a drop off point for stu- at a single entrance point along with a mid-bock in front of the Clayton Huey Elementary School.
dents. Unfortunately, children and parents were crosswalk. The new design will be prevent cars Without his continual drive to see this project to
crossing the street with no traffic safety device in from accessing Montauk Highway at multiple points fruition it in all likelihood would never have happlace. In particular Mr. Gwinn stressed the need be- so that pedestrians can safely cross the road. It will pened. Additionally, the willingness of Legislator
cause of the special needs children that attend Clay- be completed in the spring of 2013.
Kate Browning to assist in the process was instru“Nothing
is
more
vital
than
the
safety
of
our
ton Huey Elementary School who have difficulty
mental, because without her navigating this proposaccessing the cross walks down the road from the children,” stated Legislator Browning. “President al through the governmental channels the funding
parking lot. After many close calls the dangerous Gwinn made a strong case for these improvements may never been found. I want to also thank County
situation culminated in an eight year old boy being and I knew that the county needed to remedy this Executive Steve Bellone, who recognized the imsituation before a child or parent was seriously in- portance of this proposal and supported it wholestruck by a vehicle in September 2011.
The project will eliminate multiple entrances jured. I want to thank County Executive Bellone heartedly.”
and exits from the King Kullen shopping center for his support in helping to approve this project,
Field Day….A Big Hit!
Fourth grade Boys Marathon winners: 1st Jack Kelly, 2nd Kyle
O’Donoghue, 3rd Daniel Hromada
A special thank you goes to
the Clayton Huey Physical Education Department for a wonderful, well-organized event! This
year, Field Day was moved to
May at the request of the physical
education department, due to the
Fifth grade Girls Marathon winners: 1st Anna Ricci, 2nd Kyra
Weybrecht, 3rd Anna Connolly
Fifth grade Boys Marathon winners: 1st Mitchel McMahon, 2nd
Dylan Gabriel, 3rd Dylan Bryant
Fourth grade Girls Marathon
winners: 1st Makayla Hofmann,
2nd Marita Harris, 3rd Joan Marie Leone
hot weather conditions that one
often has to worry about in June.
The community shared
their excitement about the
switch, and the faculty supported
this change as well. The children
were engaged in multiple activi-
ties and were treated to Italian
ices at the end of the day, thanks
to the generosity of the CMPTA.
While Mother Nature was
not completely cooperative and
the marathons were postponed
until the following Tuesday, a
great day was had by all!
If you have any suggestions
regarding the day, you are welcome to share them with us as
we continuously look for ways
to make Field Day as special as
possible.
July 2012
7
The District News
Dear Valued Center Mor
iches Relayers!
On behalf of the Center
Moriches Planning Team
, we wish to thank you fo
our 11th Relay year in Ce
r making
nter Moriches the best ye
t!
We hosted 150 survivors
and their caregivers, ma
ny who are interested in
more involved by either
getting
giving or receiving help
fro
m the American Cancer
(ACS)! We completely fill
Society
ed the Banning Tanning
Beds for Teens Poster tha
hand delivered to legisla
t
will be
tors later this month, wh
o are still holding out on
ing the bill. Thank you!
supportWe recruited ACS CAN me
mbers who will be added
ACS army so our voice wi
to the
ll be heard louder on ad
vocacy issues. Lastly, the
60 individuals from your
re
were
community who are intere
sted in the CPS III study
who will be helping us fin
this fall
d more answers to why
some people get cancer
and why so
om
mee do not!
We contribute this year’s
success to the strong leade
rship of our valued team
diligent and innovative in
captains and team memb
their fundraising efforts, wh
ers who were very
ich helped to raise over $1
of the American Cancer
60,000 to help continue
Society!
to fuel the mission
Thanks to all who helped
add new fresh ideas to the
event. Your involvemen
t matters!! Thank you!
It is an honor and a privi
lege to be a part of such
a giving and passionate co
make Relay and fighting
mmunity and we thank yo
cancer a priority in your
u for continuing to
life.
Congratulations on your
success and thanks for do
ing your part to
Thanks again for being a
community that cares an
d thanks
help fight cancer in our co
mmunity!
for making a difference!
With Warm Regards and
Grateful Appreciation,
Your Relay Planning Team
2012
Tina Healy, Jackie Osborn
e, Maddy Alter, Sue Bren
nan, Ken Dobert, Sue Do
er, Miriam Gillies, Barbara
brie, Camille Fanizzi, Jo
Herrmann, Gina Himmels
Fay, Artie Gerhaustein, Heidi Johnson, Greta
pio, Dorothy Percopio,
La
ne
,
Jim
my
Os
borne, Amanda PercoJulie Pratt, Maria Rosania,
Renee Scott, Diane Nichols
on
With Thanks From The CMPTA
By: Gina Biamonte, PTA President
It seems like just yesterday we were getting ready to start the 2011-2012 school year and
now we’re already at the end. It has been an
amazing year full of non-stop activity. From
grade level events to fundraisers – it feels like
we never stopped. The CMPTA Board would
like to take this opportunity to thank everyone
who supported the CMPTA and our students
this year.
•Thank you to our Board of Education, administration, teachers, and clerical staff
& custodial staff for your continued
support of our numerous efforts.
•Thank you to each person/family who
took part in our membership drive and
became a PTA member for the 20112012 school year ~ your $6 goes further
than you think! We look forward to
having you as a member next year!
•Thank you to each person/family who
supported our numerous fundraising
efforts ~ from wrapping paper to plants
to book fairs and boutiques. Without all
of your support, the PTA could not have
accomplished all that we have this year.
Because of your continued support, we
were able to contribute to the district’s Arts In
Education programs by sponsoring over $15,000
in programs throughout grades K-12. We were
able to purchase over $7,000 in items for our
elementary school classrooms with Scholastic
dollars. Most importantly, we were able to put
smiles on the faces of our students on numerous
occasions during grade level events. Look for a
full list of what the PTA does and the benefits of
what we do to be listed on our PTA eBoard this
summer.
There’s a group of people that need the
biggest thank you of all. Without them we could
never accomplish what we do each year. They
bring their creativity, strengths, caring and selflessness into all they do. They always go above
and beyond what is expected of them and we
can’t thank them enough. A huge thank you
goes out to our K-5 grade level coordinators and
all of our parent volunteers. We appreciate you
all more than you know!
We look forward to returning to the CMPTA board next year along with two new board
members: Marina Carone as 2nd Vice President
and Erin Rocha as Corresponding Secretary.
We hope you will join us in doing all we can to
help make our students 2012-2013 school year
a memorable one by becoming a member! Remember: Joining the PTA does not mean you
must volunteer your time! You volunteer if/
when you want to ~ and your every waking moment is not mandatory! Whatever time you can
spare is appreciated! Membership applications
can be downloaded from the eBoard for next
year – it’s never too early to join!
Have a safe, sun & fun-filled summer!
Gina Biamonte, President
Maria Estes, 1st Vice President
Annette Rank, Treasurer
Donna DeLong, Recording Secretary
8
Principal’s Leadership Award
Michael Valentine
Congressional Certificate of Merit
Award
Gabrielle Kreuscher
County Executive Public Service
Award
Sarah Powell
NYS Attorney General’s Triple “C”
Awards
Matthew McCarthy
Lauren Albano
NYS Comptroller Achievement Award
Jordan Walther
Daughters of the American Revolution
Award
Carolyn Turkington
Perfect Attendance Award
Jason Albert
Art Department Awards
Sarah Reich
Lena Stafford
Business Department Awards
Alex Forman
Jonnathan Penaranda
English Department Awards
Patrick Clark
Thomas Erickson
Lauren McDonald
Jessica Molina
Alexander Pomposello
Timothy Rowland
Anthony Sarno
Matthew Schilling
Michael Valentine
Katerina Zachery
L.O.T.E. Department Awards
French
Lauren Albano
Alex Forman
Samantha Nankervis
Alexander Pomposello
Carolyn Turkington
Jordan Walther
Spanish
Drew Comanda
Jessica Molina
Salena Robles
Victoria Ryan
Michael Valentine
Social Studies Department Awards
Lauren Albano
Justin Cabrera
Tom Erickson
Samantha Fitzgerald
Jeffrey Foster
Alexis Parlato
Sean Paul
Shameeka Singleton
Lena Stafford
Ian Sullivan
The District News
July 2012
Center Moriches Athletic Booster Club
Awards
Alexis Parlato
Molly Schaefer
Matthew Schilling
Jordan Walther
Gerald Levine Memorial Scholarship
Jessica Oswalt
Center Moriches Fire Department
Ladies Auxiliary Award
Victoria Holborow
Making a Difference High School
Scholarship “NEFCU”
Ian Sullivan
Moriches Bay Civic Association
Citizenship Award
Jason Albert
Music Department Awards
James Argyopoulos – Band
Victoria Holborow- Chorus
Center Moriches Fire Department
Awards
Kimberly Bearese
Victoria Holborow
Douglas Matonis
Matthew McCarthy
Benjamin Primus
Matthew Schilling
Physical Education Department
Awards
Alexis Parlato
Matthew Schilling
Center Moriches Fire Department
Sandberg Award
Sean Paul
Sarah Powell
Science Department Awards
Jason Albert
Melissa Campbell
Alex Forman
Danielle Marchese
John McMahon
Samantha Nankervis
Jessica Oswalt
Sarah Powell
Wendy Szabo
Michael Valentine
Center Moriches Garden Club
Carolyn Turkington
Health Studies Awards
Molly Schaeffer
Jordan Walther
Math Department Awards
James Argyropoulos
Melissa Campbell
Thomasp Erickson
Samantha Fitzgerald
Alex Forman
Victoria Holborow
Alexis Parlato
Michael Perricone
Molly Schaefer
Michael Valentine
Technology Department Awards
Tom Erickson
David Steeves
Senior Class Officers Recognition
Awards
Alexis Parlato, President
Samantha Fitzgerald, Vice President
Victoria Holborow, Secretary
Matthew Schilling, Treasurer
National Honor Society
Michael Valentine, President
James Argyropoulos, Vice President
Jessica Oswalt, Secretary
Carolyn Turkington, Treasurer
Association of the Moriches
Community Scholarship
Jason Albert
Dionna Goldstein
Gabrielle Kreuscher
Samantha Nankervis
Alexis Parlato
Matthew Schilling
Michael Valentine
Brookhaven Memorial Hospital
Award
Kianie Angeles
Bagel Deli “PIE” Award (Putting in
Effort)
Danielle Marchese
Center Moriches Paraprofessional
Scholarship
Kevin D’Amico
Jessica Gosney
Chamber of Commerce Award
Alex Forman
Chapman Awards
Victoria Holborow
Samantha Nankervis
Alexis Parlato
Michael Valentine
Choral Society of the Moriches
Molly Schaefer
Danallison Achievement Award
Joanna Pizzo
David Turpin Scholarship Award
Jason Albert
Diane Casablanca Memorial
Scholarship
Alison Schucht
Dougherty Family Scholarship
Matthew Schilling
East Moriches PTO Humanitarian
Award
Gabrielle Kreuscher
Educational Awards, Unkechaug
Nation
Myles Bell
Shaki Edwards
Maleek Harris
Wayne Harris
Nuquan Mathis
Kandice Miller
Miranda Miller
Timothy Rowland
Long Island Blood Services
Scholarship
Joseph Gallo
Moriches Bay Little League
Scholarship
Jeffrey Foster
Matthew Schilling
Jordan Walther
MSG Varsity Scholarship
Michael Lemmen
David Steeves
NYSED Academic Excellence Awards
Victoria Holborow
Alexis Parlato
Samantha Nankervis
Michael Valentine
Parlato Family Scholarship
Jason Albert
PTA Scholarships
David DeLong
Matthew McCarthy
Alexis Parlato
Carolyn Turkington
Michael Valentine
Rico’s Memorial Scholarships
Jeffrey Foster
Kelsey Glanzman
Lena Stafford
Matthew Schilling
Robin Gross Memorial Scholarship
Molly Schaefer
Alexander Pomposello
Rotary Club of the Moriches
Scholarships
Nicole Beierle
Francesca Monaco
SEPTA Scholarships
Tyler Fleet
Alexander Hamilton
Jeremy Smith
David Steeves
Suffolk County Association of Business
Officials
Dionna Goldstein
Thomas Sinnickson Memorial
Scholarship
Melissa Campbell
July 2012
The District News
9
M A Y SSTUDENTS
T UD ENT S OF THE MONTH
M ONTH
Congratulations to the Center Moriches High School Students of the Month for May. In photo, from left to right: Mr. Soto, Associate Principal,
Monica Fortsch (Art), Alanna Spina (Health), Zachery Powell (Citizenship), Dionna Goldstein (Business), Scott Murdock (Science), Cassidy
Whelan (English), Brittany Pemberton (LOTE), Sigourney Burchette (Technology), and High School Principal Mr. Casswell. Dan Strebel (PE)
and Michael Brantmeyer (Chorus) were not available for the photo.
The Art Show, organized by
Ms. Brubaker and Ms. DeJohn,
was a delight to view. The artwork, ALL completed by the
elementary and middle school
students, is always organized in
a manner that rivals the galleries in SOHO. The annual event
is one that the entire community
looks forward to, and this year’s
displays did not disappoint.
From clay flowers created
by our kindergarten students
to the sculptures created by the
fifth grade that were inspired by
Henry Moore, it was a proud day
for this learning community.
10
The District News
July 2012
Sixth Grade Battle of the Books
On Friday, June 8, 2012, the sixth graders of Center Moriches Middle
School met in the Library Media Center to compete in the Battle of the
Books. The “Battle” was organized by Mrs. Bonnie Bredes, the Secondary Library Media Specialist, and Mrs. Debbie Chance, the sixth grade
reading teacher. As part of the reading curriculum, all of the sixth grade
students read two books: “The Hunger Games,” by Suzanne Collins, and
“The City of Ember,” by Jeane DuPrau. Within each reading class, all of
the students were divided into teams that would specialize in one of the
books during the “Battle.” There were three rounds of detailed questions
the team members were required to answer. Many of the students dressed
up as characters from the books. The winning class received an ice cream
party as their prize.
Box Tops for Education – DID YOU KNOW????
There are 4 BIG WAYS to earn Box Tops:
1.
Clip them off of the everyday products
you love and use (Cheerios, Yoplait Yogurt,
Betty Crocker Cake Mixes and Frosting, Avery
Binders, and much, much more!)
2.
Shop online www.btfe.com/marketplace
- do all your online shopping through this
link and Center Moriches PTA/PTO will earn
EASY Box Tops for every purchase you make at
stores. Example of stores are Target.com, Kohls.
com, Orientaltrading.com, etc. There are over 175 retailers on the list. GO
CHECK IT OUT!
3.
Walmart and BTFE have partnered up and have created www.earnmoreformyschool.com. They have click and earn opportunities as well as
coupons you can print to buy many of the products that have Box Tops on
them.
4.
Bonus Box Tops – online, at grocery stores (they come out like catalina coupons from the register), and at the BIG CLUB Stores (Sams, BJ’s
and Costco). Many of the big boxes have more than one box top on it.
up, you can still help us raise money for our school! Thank you, Marcie
Litjens, for allowing us the opportunity to put our bin in your department.
With our last contest, we sent in over 14,000 Box Tops!! We are
looking forward to receiving that check for over $1,400!! WOW!! That is
AMAZING. Great Job everyone. Keep collecting all summer long.
SUMMER CONTEST INFO!!!!
DRUMROLL PLEASE……It is now time to introduce the NEW Clayton
Huey Box Tops BUCKS!! Save your Box Tops all summer long and the
classroom that collects the most BUCKS by September 30th will win a
PRIZE! When School starts in September, each teacher will get a GIANT
envelope to store all their box top bucks in. Then they can submit the
FULL envelope to the main office on September 30, 2012. This will help
us out tremendously by keeping all the Box Tops together that belong to
each teacher.
The Clayton Huey Box Tops Bucks will be something we will be
using all year long. There are a few ideas in the works as to HOW and
WHERE your children will be able to SPEND their Box Tops Bucks. More
information will follow regarding some of these special plans, but if you
have any questions and/or suggestions, please feel free to contact Christine
Sign up at www.boxtops4education.com to get their newsletters and to Buff at christinebuff30@yahoo.com.
HAPPY SUMMER everyone….and don’t forget to clip those Box
track the progress of Center Moriches PTA/PTO. This is what Clayton
Tops! And tell Grandma and Grandpa too!
Huey Elementary is listed under.
Remember, 10 Box Tops = 1.00! Every single one really does count.
NEED ANOTHER PLACE TO DROP OFF ALL THOSE Box Tops???
The Children’s Department of The Center Moriches Library will also Have you seen the GIANT Box Tops BANNER in the cafetehave a Box Tops Collection Bin for us!! So…if your children are all grown ria? The CMPTA thanks you for your continued support.
July 2012
11
The District News
Summer Reading Survival Guide for Parents
By: Kim Hardwick, Elementary Principal
not impressed that the novel is over
100 pages, perhaps you can find
the book on tape/CD. This format
of the book can be enjoyed by the
whole family on long car trips, or
will transform a trip to the beach
#1: Have your son/daughter read into an educational experience. My
the book in intervals of ten pages only recommendation would be to
if they are reading a chapter book. have your child read along while s/
Once your child has finished the ten he is listening as it is critical that
pages, suggest s/he write a few lines students visually experience the
about what was read (address points language as well and read the text
in outline). A child’s comprehension at the same time they are listening
will be improved if they are able to to the phrasing on the tape/CD.
understand the plot as it unfolds.
This process will certainly assist #3: Have your child go online to rewith enhancing a child’s ability to search some of the topics mentioned
follow and comprehend the events in the book. This will build the
in the story.
background knowledge necessary
to make more sense of the events in
#2: Do not avoid a novel because the book. It is critical to have knowlof its size. If your child finds a syn- edge of the context of the book such
opsis of the book interesting, but is as the setting and time period. As
As most parents know, getting children to read over the summer can be exhausting and frustrating. To ease this arduous task, I am
sharing a few helpful tips with you.
we know, characters and plot differ
based on the setting of the book so
a child can research the time period
or a specific item mentioned that s/
he is unfamiliar with.
they are reading that is a bonus
(and one that happens often). It is
more important that a child learn
that having a good book to read is a
relaxing and fun activity when it is
the RIGHT book!
#4: Chat with your local librarian
who can easily recommend a handful of wonderful choices that will be
interesting to your child based on
his/her hobbies and interests. The
CM Public Library is very familiar with the leveled system and can
assist you in finding a “just right”
book.
Reading is not meant to be
painful for anyone involved. It is
our hope that your child will find
a number of books which speak to
his/her interests as well as abilities. As our students prepare for the
academic challenges that lie ahead,
independent
reading willl
#5: Focus on the ENJOYMENT of help them
m
reading. During the school year, achieve succhildren read for knowledge and cess in the
information, but summer reading future.
is solely focused on entertainment.
If a child happens to learn new and Enjoy your
wonderful information from a book summer!
The Importance of Summer Reading:
Encourage Your Child to Read
Summer Reading Strategies
Here are some helpful strategies that effective readers use before reading, during reading, and after reading.
By: Kim Hardwick, Elementary Principal
Reading well is at the heart of
all learning. Children who can’t read
well, struggle with learning and suffer long term effects academically,
socially and emotionally. A partnership between home and school is
critical in the enhancing and ensuring student success. This summer, to
support and encourage reading, Clayton Huey students are encouraged to
read throughout the summer season!
As stated by Richard Allington,
professor of literacy at the University
of Tennessee, “Evidence suggests
three months of learning is lost for
the average student who doesn’t read
during the summer. The loss can be
as much as three
to five months for
struggling readers…”
There
is
a great deal of
research to support this statement. The Center
Moriches Public
Library is also
offering an exciting summer
reading program that I strongly encourage you to participate in. At the
conclusion of the program, a child receives a certificate of completion and
fun gifts are distributed through the
duration of the program. A list of leveled titles can also be found on our
website as another resource for parents. We are truly hoping to strengthen our home-school partnership and
work collaboratively to enhance your
child’s reading skills.
I hope you enjoy the summer
months and find many of the ideas
shared on our website and in the June
Community Happenings to be meaningful and rewarding.
Before Reading: Preparing the reader for the experience
• Set aside time and find a quiet place to enjoy your book.
• Set short-term reading goals: an hour a week is a good start.
• Preview what you are going to read by looking at the dust jacket, chapter titles, headings, illustrations, captions, and other
text features. You can make some predictions about the book!
• Reflect on what you already know about the content of the
book.
• Be willing to be a bit confused as you begin reading; even the
very best readers struggle to make sense of a book as they begin reading. Write your questions on a Post-It or a piece of
paper!
During Reading: Developing meaning from the text
• Make predictions as you read and then see if they come true.
• Stop reading at the end of each chapter and try to summarize
what you have read. Tell a family member about the book!
• Make connections between what you already know and what
you are reading.
• Try to visualize what you are reading as if the book were a
movie in your head. Who would be playing each character?
• Pose questions about your reading and talk with others about
your book. Maybe a sibling or a parent will read along with
you!
• Keep a reader’s journal and reflect on your reading in writing:
what interests you, what confuses you, etc.
After Reading: Be creative with connections and understandings
• Create your own graphic organizer to show the relationships
among important ideas, characters, and/or events.
• Check your predictions to see if they came true.
• Reflect on what you liked and/or disliked about the book.
• Consider whether or not you would recommend this book to
someone else.
• Make personal connections to the characters and themes of the
book.
12
July 2012
The District News
RED DEVILS VARSITY LACROSSE VICTORIOUS
For over three years the Center Moriches Red Devils Varsity Boys
Lacrosse team has been aspiring for the program’s first win. After three
years of hard work and disappointing seasons, the Red Devils were eventually able to persevere and achieve a milestone for the program: the first
Varsity Boys Lacrosse win in Center Moriches history. It happened at
the last game of the season against the Southampton Mariners, who had
beaten Center Moriches 5-2 the previous year. This year the Red Devils
did not take the game lightly, and fought their way to a 10-2 win over
the Mariners. The team finally has something to show for the effort and
dedication they have put in during the first three years of the program.
The win could not have come at a better time, as Center Moriches Boys
Lacrosse looks to build on this win and make a statement next season
under the leadership of its committed coaches. With only three players
graduating, and All County Defenseman Eric Birmingham returning for
his senior year, it is very possible that Center Moriches Boys Lacrosse
program is on its way to victory.
Middle School Softball Team Completes Undefeated Season!
Congratulations to the Middle
School Girls Softball Team, led by Coach
Kathy Naples, for a remarkable undefeated season. Coach Naples credits the
teams success to the talents, hard work,
and teamwork that the girls have shown
since the first day of practice.
Kudos to:
Ashely Alaia
Devon Almont
Sarah Brady
Kylie Castellano
Erin Copozzi
Erin Donohue
Kayla Hujber
Jessica Lydon
Mackensie Maier
Kayla O’Leary
Erin Pfister
Ashley Sigerson
Alyson Soltes
Megan Voit
Mackenzie Walsh
Mikayla Weybrecht
July 2012
13
The District News
Center Mor iches High
H igh School
Depar t ment of Athlet ics
Special Achievements Spring 2012
Name
Zach Schrage
Justin Cabrera
Mike Oldham
Mike Valentine
Eric Birmingham
Patrick Bryant
Michael Colombi
Daniel Franchi
Jeff Foster
Matthew Schilling
Samantha Fitzgerald
Sydney Nankervis
Raimondi, Cheyenne
Fahie, Victoria
Maier, Morgan
Smith, Cierra
Nolan, Kiley
Creen, Erin
Stafford, Lena
Schaefer, Molly
Mayen, Dora
Nicholes, Georgie
Almond, Jill
Donegan, Ryleigh
Powell, Sarah
Monaco, Diana
Niemynski, Chris
Adams, Tylin
DeLong, David
Mayen, Mario
Booker, Donald
Gallo, Joe
Mathis, Nuquan
Montefusco, Andrew
Sullivan, Ian
Grade
12
12
12
12
11
10
10
9
12
12
12
10
11
10
10
8
10
9
12
12
11
10
11
9
12
9
12
12
12
12
11
12
12
11
12
Sport
Tennis
Tennis
Tennis
Tennis
Lacrosse
Baseball
Baseball
Baseball
Baseball
Baseball
Lacrosse
Lacrosse
Softball
Softball
Softball
Softball
Softball
Softball
Track
Track
Track
Track
Track
Track
Track
Track
Lacrosse
Track
Track
Track
Track
Track
Track
Track
Track
Award
All League
All League
All Conference
All Conference
All Division; All County
All County
All League
All League
All League
Academic All League
All Division
All Division
All Division
All Division
All League
All League
All League
All League
All League
All League
All League
All League
All League
All League
All League
All League
Courage Award
All League; State Qualifier
All League
All League; State Qualifier
All League
All League
All League; State Qualifier
All League
All League
NYS Special Olympic Champions!
We have a New York
State Special Olympic
champion at Clayton Huey...
Alec DeGaro won the gold
medal in the 50 meter dash
and the bronze medal in the
softball throw at the state
championships in Buffalo,
New York this weekend!!
He worked so hard, and
was as fast as lightening!
Kieren Gwinn, one of
our student alumni, also
performed at the Special
Olympics State Games and
placed in the 400 meter
event with a silver medal
and was part of the 4 x 100
relay team that won a
bronze medal.
Both athletes are
now ranked in New York
State and may qualify for
Nationals. You have made
the Center Moriches community proud with your
accomplishments.
14
July 2012
The District News
Civil War Reenactment:
“A Day in the Life of a Soldier”
It was a magnificent spring
day for the students of Center
Moriches who participated in the
annual Civil War reenactment.
The sky was blue with fluffy white
clouds, the weather was warm, and
the breeze just cool enough to make
it a perfect day.
The day started out
unlike any other typical
school day. Students arrived at school and
were directed to the
Large Group Instructional Room, where
they had the opportunity to watch a documentary on the Civil War.
As the documentary ended
the students were lined up and
escorted to the middle school gymnasium where they were enlisted as
soldiers. The students waited patiently when all of a sudden General
Grant, General Lee, and Abraham
Lincoln arrived to assist with roll
call; (thank you so very much Alex
Forman, Mr. Voelger and Mr. Schiavoni for dressing in full uniform).
As our esteemed Generals took roll
call and assigned the students to
their appropriate platoons, the students were then introduced to
their commanders and leaders
for the day.
Forty seniors volunteered for the day to lead
and oversee a small group
of five students throughout
the activities, and to support
them during the many drills,
marches, sports, games, lunch,
and reenactments. Thank you so
much seniors; with all your help the
day was organized and fun. Many
thanks to Mr. Casswell for allowing
the students to participate, and Mr.
Mischler for organizing and involving the seniors.
After the recruitment and assignments to the platoons the seventh graders were marched out to
the back fields where the students
spent the entire day. The marches
were enhanced by Jalyn Preston and
Louis Navas, who also volunteered
to provide drum cadences and music throughout the event. During the
course of the day, Louis and Jalyn
entertained the troops with their
“battle of the drums,” an event that
mesmerized everyone on the field.
Their battling drums were an ex-
citing example of the many talents
our students have to share with their
peers and friends when given an opportunity to express themselves.
Carrying their
roll
see first hand how the citizens of the
1860 have lived. What a wonderful
experience and how intrigued everyone was to actually hold a piece
of history in their
hands.
Afpacks,
ter everyand also dressed
one had the opportuniin costumes and their T-shirt uni- ty to visit all the stations and receive
forms, the students marched to the training in drills, marches and mabattlefield where the 14th Regiment neuvers, the students observed a
N.Y.S.M. Co. E. Civil
military moment
War Reenacof silence
tors
were
waiting to
begin teaching our
students about the life of a civilian
and soldier living during the 1860s.
Thanks to an Arts ED grant from
BOCES, we were able to invite the
14th Regiment N.Y.S.M. Co. E., Reenactors to join us. The Re-enactors
arrived in full and authentic dress
to spend the day instructing the students in drills, marches, maneuvers,
reenactments, mourning, lifestyle,
dress, first-aid, food, photos, cooking, literature, music etc.
The Reenactors brought with
them their original artifacts dating
from the Civil War era. These artifacts were shared with our students;
they were allowed to touch, feel and
followed by
the raising of the
flags and a demonstration of strategies used during the Civil War on
the firing line. Following the various demonstrations, the students
participated in their own reenactment of Civil War battles.
After the morning activities a
barbecue and a picnic were enjoyed
by all. Many thanks are extended
to the parents of the students who
so kindly volunteered to shop, prepare the team bags, provided food
and supplies for the picnic, and
cooked for everyone., Many thanks
to Gina Biamonte, PTA President,
who organized all of the volunteers
and spent endless hours helping to
By: Ms. Susan Lang
organize this event. Students were
provided with authentic foods and
deserts for lunch. Beverages, water,
watermelon, hamburgers, hotdogs,
baked beans, cornbread, muffins,
shortbread, cookies, and so much
more were enjoyed by all. In attendance during the picnic to support
the Generals was Abraham Lincoln, who enlightened the students with tales of the Civil
War. Abe did a wonderful
job reading the Gettysburg Address to everyone
present.
The day ended on a
lighter note with students
participating in the many
recreational and sporting activities enjoyed by the civilians
during this era. Thank you to Mr.
Scott, Ms. Corry, Tom Kelly, and
the Buildings and Grounds staff
for setting up the fields with all of
the equipment. Once again led by
the commanders and generals, the
students competed in games like
kick ball, three-way volleyball, relay races, and the race of the charging flags. Everyone had a good
time and enjoyed learning about
the 1860s and the Civil War by
participating in a “hands-on”
learning experience.
Many thanks to all
the people that helped
make this event a success; the students who did
fundraising all year, the 7th
grade parents and teachers
that supported the students
and this event, the Social Studies Department, the music students
and teachers, the seniors who volunteered to be the commanders,
Alex Forman, Mr. Voelger, and Mr.
Schiavoni as our esteemed Generals
and Mr. O’Brien. A special thank
you to Jodi Cameron and Roseann
Cunningham for all their help with
the picture boards, Mr. Roy and
his students for all of their photography and videotaping, David
Steeves - thank you for your dedication and photography skills during
our Civil War reenactments the past
two years, the Physical Education
teachers, Building and Grounds, the
custodians, a special thank you to
all faculty and staff that support this
activity each year and especially to
Ms. Cunningham who always encouraged and supported us.
July 2012
15
The District News
Feelin’ Good at Clayton Huey
By: Jodi Cameron, Physical Education Teacher
The “Feelin’ Good”
Mileage Club provided the
Clayton Huey students with a
great incentive to stay healthy.
This incentive-based program
was developed to improve fitness, decrease playground
hassles, and reduce the incidence of obesity.
Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, the students
in grades three through five
walked, jogged, or ran on a
set course during recess. Each
time a student completed a
lap, he or she received a hole
punch on a mileage marker
card. This system helped students set goals and track their
progress. For every five miles
the students completed, they
earned a Toe Token (a brightly colored plastic foot) and a
certificate. After 15 miles, the
students signed their names to
a poster in the cafeteria marking their accomplishments.
A majority of the students in each grade participated and learned to work at their
own pace to reach their goals.
In photos on left, from
top to bottom, are the third,
fourth, and fifth grade walkers. In photo below, students
keep track of their miles as
they complete each lap.
Student s Hit High Note at N YSMMA
Congratulations to
all of the Clayton Huey
Elementary School band,
chorus and piano students
who participated in this
year’s NYSSMA (New
York State School Music
Association) Solo Festival.
All of our 3rd, 4th and 5th
grade students earned either a rating of Outstanding or Excellent. Two of
our students chose to par-
ticipate by going Festival
without a grade. Defined
by the organization itself,
Outstanding ratings show
a distinguished level of
accomplishment and Excellent ratings show an exceptional level of accomplishment. The following
students did a fabulous
job and we are so proud of
their hard work and dedication:
Jane Adams
Andy Auffant
Jordan Bauer
Celina Cabrera
Allison Carpenter
Karla Ciriaco
Curtis Copenhaver
William Daniels
Summer Davidson
Jackson DeMasi
Ethan DeVelvis
Nicholas DeVelvis
Sabrina DiStefano
Kaitlin Doyle
Juliana Flores
Lanie Frazier
Jacklyn Gould
Marita Harris
Alex Hermsdorf
Michael Koscinski
Claire Krauss
Edwin Leandry
Antonio Lopez
Thomas Luongo
Samantha Maag
Tyler Mansfield
Brianna Marangio
Kelsey Maxwell
Jenna Naples
William Pettit
Aaron Preston
Anna Ricci
Alexa Salvaggio
Sabrina Scuria
Gillian Shrey
Nathan Sigerson
Jacob Sigerson
Aidan Spiller
Alexandra Stokes
Derek Vogt
Kaylee Walsh
Kyra Weybrecht
Jake Zosimo
The District News
The Newspaper of the Center Moriches School District
Volume 18 Number 5
www.cmschools.org
July 2012
OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT
CENTER MORICHES SCHOOLS
APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP ON
BOARD OF EDUCATION COMMITTEES
2012-2013
Membership on Board committees shall be open to residents, taxpayers, parents, teachers, and other employees of the
district, subject to the approval and appointment by a majority of the school board. If you wish to be considered for membership, please complete the form below and either mail it to the District Clerk at 311 Frowein Road, Center Moriches,
New York 11934, no later than August 1, 2012.
According to Board policy, committees shall have the authority to study, investigate, and to make recommendations to
the Board of Education. Committees established under this policy shall not be empowered to act beyond reporting to the
Board of Education.
Name: __________________________________ Date: _________________
Address: ________________________________________________________
Telephone Number: _______________________________________________
E-Mail Address: ___________________________________________________
Days of Week Available: ____________________________________________
Most Convenient Times: ____________________________________________
Listed below are the committees. Please circle the number of the committee you wish to volunteer to serve on.
Committees:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Curriculum and Instruction
Technology
Facility Advisory
Legislative
Emergency Preparedness Committee
Health and Wellness Committee
School Opens on September 5th!
SAVE THE DATES: IMPORTANT SUMMER EVENTS
d
n
a
fe r!
a
S
a
e
e
m
v
Ha py Sum
Hap
August 2:
August 15-17:
August 16:
August 22:
August 23:
August 27:
August 28:
August 30:
Sports Physicals
Senior Pictures
First JV/Varsity Football Practice
Kindergarten Buddies
Sports Physicals
First JV/Varsity Fall Sports Practicee
Grade 6 Orientation
Grade 9 Orientation