Press Releases
The Class of 2010 Makes Their Mark in BBP High School seniors were celebrated for their achievements at the Class of 2010 commencement Distinguished guest United States Senator from New York Charles Schumer encouraged students to step-up and conquer the economic and social challenges of the times by utilizing the skills and talents they have developed throughout their high school careers. Echoing Senator Schumer’s sentiments, Valedictorian Stephanie Tubiolo described the unique talents and personalities of the class, along with their positive contributions to the school and community. Salutatorian Brendan Lenz entertained classmates and community members, utilizing a rap performance to recount the many different events and activities students had experienced. Academic achievement was also recognized as select students received Honor Medallions for achieving a 90% or above unweighted average, while other students signified their membership in the National Honor Society by wearing NHS patches on their robes. The musical talents of the high school were also on display as the High School Band and Orchestra performed ceremonial musical selections as well as instrumental samples from “Queen in Concert.” The Senior Chorus also sang an inspirational rendition of “Time of Your Life.”
James Wilson Young Middle School students took their first steps towards high school by participating in Principal Susan Haske welcomed the eighth-grade class and thanked the community, Board of Education and district for their support in the class’s education and school activities. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anthony Annunziato shared sentiments of congratulations and an inspirational message of good luck that encouraged student to actively participate in the diverse courses, clubs and activities the high school provides.
The chorus showcased their talents, performing “Like an Eagle,” an inspirational song about independence and the unknown, before class advisors Deborah Lena and Colleen MacDonell awarded students with their certificates.
Elementary Students Move Up & Come Together District teachers, administrators, Board of Education and community members recognized their youngest Select students were honored with Presidential Academic and community-sponsored awards, while the entire student body showcased their musical talents, singing and performing a variety of musical selections including Friends on Broadway and their respective school’s theme song.
High School students participated in Islip High School's School to Business Partnership Career Interest Seminar. Suffolk County Legislator Tom Cilmi kicked off the event as the keynote speaker before students interacted with the event’s business mentors. Throughout the three sessions students had the opportunity to meet and speak with more than 30 professionals in a variety of fields such as education, healthcare, communications, athletics, law enforcement and government. High School Principal Dr. Timothy Hearney, high school math teacher and Department Chairperson Eric Iberger, and high school business teacher Doug Monsell participated in the event as mentors. Dr. Hearney described the importance of exposing Bayport-Blue Point School to Business Partnership students to networking opportunities. “The Business Luncheon was a great opportunity for our students to meet with established, successful business professionals in order to explore possible areas of interest and provide them with a forum to obtain career advice, as well.” Elementary Students Explore the Arts Sylvan Avenue Elementary School students experienced the Arts in Education program Writing is Child's Building enthusiasm for creative writing, the literacy professionals introduced students to methods for organizing story concepts and shared a variety of story excerpts written by students throughout the nation. The lessons culminated with live interactive performances, in which students helped generate storylines and portrayed dynamic character roles. Arts-in-Education programs promote personal growth and understanding by enabling students to process and create meaning from what they learn about people, events and places. Educationally, the arts have a place in the classroom as rich, relevant and integral connections to classroom work that support, as well as align with and enliven, core curriculum. Blue Point Students Sponsor “A Hotdog for a Guide Dog” Benefit Dinner Blue Point Elementary Peer Leaders organized “A Hot Dog for a Guide Dog” community fundraiser dinner Prior to the event, students met with a Guide Dog Foundation volunteer Bernie Ferracane and J.T., his puppy in training. Students learned about the training that service dogs receive throughout their lives and the multiple ways in which these dogs assist their owners with everyday tasks, helping them to live more active lives. Elementary students generated student and community support by creating invitation posters, composing morning announcement jingles that they sang over the school’s public address system, and decorating the school’s cafeteria for the dinner. During the event, students and community members received a special surprise when J.T. joined them. More than 20 local businesses donated baskets of prizes to be raffled off to those dining. Students raised an impressive $836, which the Guide Dog Foundation will use to purchase and train a future guide dog companion.
High School Student Selected as National Merit Finalist to Academic standout Bayport-Blue Point High School senior Spencer Olsson has advanced to Finalist Spencer achieved Finalist status, surpassing approximately 15,000 Semifinalists who were selected for this prestigious academic competition. Scholarship winners will be chosen from the Finalist group based on their abilities, skills, and accomplishments. Specifically, the NMSC will evaluate each Finalist’s academic record, information about their school's curricula and grading systems, two sets of test scores, school officials’ written recommendations, information about the student's activities and leadership, and the Finalist's own written essay. Blue Point Students Call Checkmate Blue Point Elementary School offered students a unique way to compete, while stimulating their minds Classes were structured with brief lessons in which students learned specific aspects of the game through large visual displays before demonstrating their new knowledge in tournament matches. The game of chess not only helps students develop strategy skills and improve concentration, but studies have indicated that chess increases reading levels and math scores. The Long Island Chess Nuts is a scholastic chess club that specializes in teaching children the game of chess and building positive self-esteem and confidence through healthy competition. Elementary Students Enter the "Shark Tank" Academy Street Elementary students created an underwater world to showcase their shark knowledge. Students Clothe Those in Need Sylvan Avenue Elementary Peer Leaders Abigail Curry and Marissa Laterra were inspired to join Haitian Sylvan Avenue students set up donation stations throughout the school and came together to sort and box the piles of denim they collected, as well as those donated by staff and community members. As a result of this successful outreach effort, the school collected an impressive 271 pairs of jeans to be mailed to Haiti by Aéropostale and distributed to those in need. MS Students Get a Lesson on the Gift of Blood James Wilson Young Middle School students participated in the New York Blood Center’s Little Doctors Program. Students began their circulatory curriculum by receiving an introduction to how blood donations and transfusions work, learning the various requirements to become an eligible blood donor, including age and weight requirements and limits. They were also educated on the patients and places that have a high demand for blood supplies, including the type of emergency situations, such as accidents or natural disasters, and the necessary immediacy of the response for blood transfusions. As a culmination to their circulatory education, the middle school hosted a blood drive and provided 59 units of blood to the Long Island Blood Services. During the event students volunteered their time and assisted medical professionals by recording potential donors’ medical histories, registering donors, and serving donors snacks and juice after giving blood. Middle School Students Follow the Storm Combining curriculum knowledge with cutting-edge videoconferencing technology, sixth-grade science research students in Kathy Brand’s classes at James Wilson Young Middle School analyzed data and Students researched the nor’easter that hit New York City on December 30, 2000, a storm that was responsible for dropping record amounts of snow. Students acted as meteorologists by tracking the storm’s path and making educated predictions on whether the city would be able to safely conduct the traditional dropping of the New Year’s Eve ball. Working in teams, students analyzed the daily weather patterns of the four days prior to New Year’s Eve and gained an understanding of humidity and dew point; wind speed and wind chill; air pressure; and surface and upper air temperatures. Connected to a weather center in Wheeling, West Virginia, teams of students reported their recommendations for action to various scientists via videoconferencing. Their final recommendation was to stay on schedule and drop the ball in Times Square. Following their recommendation, students viewed actual satellite footage of the 2000 nor’easter moving into New York State. They were pleased to see their prediction was right on, as the storm moved out to sea without affecting the New Year’s festivities! Throughout this interactive program students experienced the challenging role of a meteorologist, predicting the movements and wind patterns of storms, and learned how technology is utilized to protect people and plan events. Musicians Take Center Stage High School and James Wilson Young Middle School music students showcased their talents with an evening of jazz performances. The entertaining ensembles included the High School Jazz Band led by The Middle School Jazz Band represented the district at the Suffolk County Music Educators Association (SCMEA) Day of Jazz. Select James Wilson Young students joined students from across Suffolk County to participate in the prestigious musical festival. In addition, James Wilson Young Middle School students Emily Larsson and Patrick Werhle, and Band Director Mr. Hurst, represented the district at the Annual SCMEA Howard Hovey Tuba Day. A
Academy St. Club Versed in a Warming Craft A classroom filled with bright colors and soft textiles serves as a workshop for the nimble hands of Academy Street Elementary students who participate in the school’s knitting club. Reading teacher Diane Ryan-Reed organized this unique club to provide students with a creative outlet and exercise their minds during the cold winter months when activity can be limited. As a result, more than 30 fifth-grade students meet twice a week, during their lunch period, to master the art of knitting. Ms. Ryan-Reed began by instructing students on the basic knitting stitch, how to properly maneuver knitting needles, and how to handle and care for their yarn. The basic stitch can be used to create a variety of patterns and students are currently applying this technique to craft scarves for themselves, family and friends. Once students perfect the basic stitch they learn advanced knitting stitches to create other items. Future projects include knitting blankets for homeless shelters, animal rescue groups, and perhaps other community organizations and causes. HS Students Recognized for Excellence by NYS Six Bayport-Blue Point High School students have been nominated by New York State to receive Scholarships for Academic Excellence. The program provides scholarship assistance to outstanding New York State high school graduates, and if selected, these Bayport-Blue Point students could be awarded up to $1,500 per year, for up to five years, for their undergraduate studies at a New York State
Early Start for Success As part of the high school’s School-to-Business Partnership, students participated in Job Shadow Day. Over thirty students visited a variety of local businesses, including Sayville Ford, Little Angels Center for Speech, Capital One and State Farm Insurance, as well as the district’s middle school and three The annual program was designed as an academically motivating program to provide students with an up-close look at the world of work and help answer the common question, “Why do I have to learn this?” Connecting curriculum knowledge outside of the classroom walls, students spent a full day shadowing professionals and gaining personal insight into their daily responsibilities, duties and organizational goals. Students reflected on the academic areas which interest them and chose careers to shadow that highlighted those diverse skills and talents. In addition to the hands-on learning experiences, students also had the opportunity to network with professionals, establishing relationships with successful business leaders. Students Create an Optimal Learning Environment James Wilson Young Middle School students participated in training sessions for the district’s Ambassador Program. The Ambassador Program teaches problem-solving skills and promotes a healthy, stable environment for all of the school’s students. Students learned how to facilitate conflict resolution Students reviewed types of mistreatment, of varying degrees and severity, but all of which negatively impact those who are targeted, such as exclusion, putdowns, and bullying. Students were also taught how to uncover forms of mistreatment, the cost of mistreatment, and the stages of conflict. Participating in situation-based activities, students broke into small groups to simulate situations that may arise in school and how to handle them appropriately and safely. Brainstorming and formulating solutions, groups shared their techniques and perspectives with the other ambassadors and reflected on one another’s conclusions. Students Excel Through Physical Education Curriculum The New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance has announced that Bayport-Blue Point High School students Brandon Mincher and Jennifer Mercouris are Suffolk Zone Building Business At a recent Board of Education Meeting, the district and community came together to thank the Bayport-
Students Reach Out Six students from the high School attended the first annual “Compassion Without Borders” leadership summit, sponsored by the Suffolk County High School Principals’ Association (SCHSPA). During the summit, student representatives from numerous high schools in Suffolk County gathered to take part in the unique conference, geared at breaking down geographic borders between the schools and uniting The group’s first mission was to raise money for Dylan Thompson, a sophomore at Harborfields High School who suffers from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Dylan’s condition confines him to a wheelchair and presents him with a myriad of health-related issues. Dylan’s home is currently not handicapped accessible. Each high school pledged to raise $1,000 for Dylan’s cause over the course of the school year. Through this effort, more than $50,000 will be raised to help renovate Dylan’s home and make it wheelchair accessible. High School Principal Dr. Timothy Hearney accompanied the students and recognized the immediate impact the day had on them. “Our students were so motivated to make a difference they formulated two fundraising events by the time we arrived back at school,” he described. Students planned a Haunted House and Safe Halloween program to bring the community together and provide the district’s youngsters with engaging entertainment during the holiday weekend. Through these events, and the generous donations made by community members, the high school has surpassed their goal, reaching more than double the $1,000 mark.
Signing for the Future High School senior Bryan Anderson has signed a Letter of Intent to play lacrosse at Siena College, a National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I team, where he will attend school in the fall of 2010. An Photo Caption: High School senior Bryan Anderson (seated center) signs his official Letter of Intent and is congratulated by (standing l-r) High School Principal Dr. Timothy Hearney, Varsity Lacrosse Head Coach Mike Luce, Athletic Director Timothy Mullins, and his parents (seated), Debra Anderson and Dave Anderson.
Care Packages for the Community Blue Point Elementary School sponsored a schoolwide Thanksgiving food drive led by the fourth and fifth-grade Peer Leaders. Students advertised their annual fundraising efforts by lining the hallways with festive The Peer Leaders came together to sort the collected boxes of food items, which included everything from canned vegetables and stuffing to salad dressing and applesauce. Students put together baskets compiling a complete, nutritious meal for families to enjoy together. Packages were given to local families within the Blue Point school community and surplus items were donated to food pantries.
National Academic Recognition for Students The College Board has named an impressive 39 Bayport-Blue Point High School students as Advanced Placement (AP) Scholars for the 2008-2009 school year, including three students who earned the highest honor as National AP Scholars. The district provides a variety of Advanced Placement college-level courses and exams for highly motivated students to earn college credits while still in high school, and strengthen their academic resumes. In recognition of these students, the AP Program offers several AP Scholar Awards to recognize high school students who have demonstrated college-level achievement through AP courses and exams. The designation of National AP Scholar is granted to students in the United States who receive an average score of at least 4 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 4 or higher on eight or more of these exams. The designation of AP Scholar with Distinction is granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams: The designation of AP Scholar with Honor is granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams: The designation of AP Scholar is granted to students who receive scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP Exams: The District would like to congratulate these students for their dedication and commitment in achieving academic excellence. Student-Musicians Take Center Stage in Regional Performances The district is pleased to announce that high school student Eva Strobl has been selected to perform in the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) All-State Winter Conference. She will be playing the violin in the Symphony Orchestra in Rochester this December. A highly competitive program, approximately 6,000 students auditioned for the eight All-State performing groups, with less than 900 students selected to participate. The four-day conference will feature student musicians, music education leaders, and professional ensembles, and will also offer 190 workshops and showcases for all in attendance. In addition, the following students have been chosen to participate in the New York State Council of Administrators of Music Education (NYSCAME)/Suffolk County Music Educators Association (SCMEA) All-County Festival at Hauppauge High School in November: Band: Lucas Kovacs – Trumpet; Mixed Chorus: Kelly Ahrens – Soprano, Nicole Dice – Alto; Stephen Lawrence – Bass, Alexandra Salas – Alto; Women's Chorus: Gabrielle Postiglione – Soprano; Stephanie Tubiolo – Soprano; Bailee Wines – Soprano; Symphony Orchestra: Michelle Popal – Violin, Eva Strobl – Violin, Steven Ruggiero – Cello The district’s Department of Music and Arts works in conjunction with the New York State School Music Association and their mission to advocate for and improve music education across New York State through versatile school music activities and programming. Students Immersed in History and Culture Bringing curriculum to life district elementary school students experienced “Journey into American Indian Native American expert Maddi Cheers retold stories of Native American life teaching students life-lessons in respect of all living creatures, the productivity of teamwork and the value of education. Students then demonstrated how men would pair up and take on cooperative roles when hunting using specific tools. Uaian Bruno a member of the Arawak Taino tribe guided students as they created their own coil clay pots
Academic Standout The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) announced the names of approximately 16,000 Semifinalists in the 55th Annual National Merit Scholarship Program, and Bayport-Blue Point High School More than 1.5 million juniors in about 22,000 high schools entered the 2010 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2008 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), which served as the initial screening of program entrants. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists, which represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, places Spencer among the highest scoring entrants in New York State.
New Beginnings Students entered their buildings throughout the district eager to start the new school year. Backpacks filled with newly sharpened pencils and clean notebook pages were organized in classroom desks, cubbies and lockers, while teachers introduced themselves and described their upcoming educational plans.
Welcome Back The district held Superintendent’s Conference day bringing together the teachers, faculty and staff who were eager to get back into the schools and classrooms. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anthony Annunziato kicked off the day with a welcome back speech that recapped the extensive work that was completed over the summer including curriculum re-alignment, facility upgrades and administrative work. Board of Education President James March, who was joined by Board of Education Trustees Katherine Heinlein-Risi and Diane D'Angelo, commended the staff for their professionalism and ongoing commitment to excellence that has contributed to the district’s record of outstanding student achievement. He also stressed the importance of equipping and preparing students to thrive in a growing global economy and noted the successful partnership that has been established between the district and community and their joint efforts to reach a common educational goal. Bayport-Blue Point Teacher of the Year Rochelle Hyatt was honored for her contributions to the district and the impact she has had on the lives of her students and colleagues. In an inspirational message she shared a list of things all teachers, new and experienced should know. Her words of wisdom included providing students with the support and positive reinforcement necessary for them to reach their potential, connecting with students to uncover their diverse learning techniques, and forming relationships with colleagues in order to use their professional experiences and guidance to help create a unique teaching style. Special guest Jay Rifenbary a professional speaker, consultant and author of "No Excuse! - Incorporating Core Values, Accountability and Balance into Your Life and Career" was the day’s keynote speaker. His message to the staff was to integrate those elements, as well as personal honesty, integrity, and purpose into their teaching philosophy. This allows teachers to set a positive and professional example for their students not only by teaching curriculum, but also through actions and attitude. Teaching through instruction driven by integrity and respect provides students with the skills necessary to succeed utilizing a higher level of leadership. The Board of Education, administration and staff are looking forward to another outstanding school year.
New Faces of Bayport-Blue Point The district welcomed its new teachers with an orientation program that introduced them to the culture of the community and the Board of Education’s and administration’s goals and standards for the upcoming Teachers began the day with a bus tour of the district, as administrators described the grade levels, teacher makeup and characteristics of each school. Gathering in the high school library, the workshop continued with a welcome from Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anthony Annunziato. He encouraged the newest members of the staff to take advantage of the numerous resources available to them, including experienced teachers and instructional technology tools. He commended the group for choosing a career in education and expressed that it is their job to serve as role models and provide students with the best possible education and educational opportunities through classroom curriculum and schoolwide programming. Members of the district’s administrative team also introduced themselves and described their individual roles and responsibilities. The new teachers then introduced themselves providing their educational and career backgrounds, as well as their goals and expectations for the 2009-2010 school year. Traveling Abroad, Inside the Classroom Academy Street Elementary fourth graders explored the world through an interactive Travel Fair. Collecting data and information students used literary resources such as travel agency pamphlets, destination websites, encyclopedias, and magazines to gather facts and statistics on their country. Connecting with outside organizations students wrote business letters to the Department of Tourism in their respective country engaging in correspondence to receive specific, supplemental information. Marketing their unique discoveries students created an advertisement using persuasive writings to entice travelers to visit their country by highlighting what it has to offer and its most appealing characteristics. A quick-look travel brochure included photos and captions of fun places to visit, historic landmarks and famous cities, along with accommodation recommendations and descriptions. A brief history and map of the country provided a complete guide and overview to acquaint visitors with the background of its people and versatile terrain. Bringing a piece of the country’s culture inside the classroom students prepared a culinary sample that represented the agriculture and traditions of each region. The fair displayed an array of flags where students stood by their county assuming the role of travel agent educating visitors on places and people around the world. Students Fly High Blue Point Elementary School fifth graders had the unique opportunity to participate in the Smart Skies Using their math-based, decision-making skills, students explored topics including measurement units, sector display, sector information and spacing information. Utilizing various math formulas, students calculated a variety of air traffic control problems coordinating American, Southwest, Delta and United Airlines flights. Environmental Action The High School Ecology Club is a service club that is dedicated to encouraging the protection and Throughout the school year students participated in a variety of outreach activities in tandem with outside organizations. These projects, including the Nike recycling sneaker program with the Town of Islip KIC program, water quality testing of the Brown’s River watershed as part of the South Shore Estuary Watch Volunteer Monitoring Program, surveying storm drains with GPS for the Town of Brookhaven, Oyster Mariculture with the Nature Conservancy and Western Suffolk BOCES, which resulted in the growing and transplanting of 7,000 oysters into the Great South Bay. Getting their hands dirty students organized two community and beach clean-ups through the Cooperation of Islip and Brookhaven Townships, as well as facilitated the hatching and release of 100 native Brook Trout into Long Island waters with a partnership of Trout Unlimited through their Trout in the Classroom Program. Using their creative talents for fundraising, students designed natural crafts, and donated more than $500 to the Riverhead Foundation-Marine Mammals and Sea Turtle Protection Program. Within the district’s schools students introduced more than 150 reusable, BPA free water bottles to students and staff to help reduce the staggering number of water bottles that ultimately fill local land-fills for years. Recognizing the club for its outstanding contributions to the Bayport-Blue Point community and beyond, the Town of Islip Youth Bureau named them “Volunteers of the Year.” Each member of the club was presented with a certificate along with a plaque to Ecology Club Advisor Donna Edgar honoring their hard work and dedication in keeping the Great South Bay - great. Cultural Exchange Bayport-Blue Point District Foreign Language students expanded their curriculum, hosting sixteen students from FÈricy France. Building upon their pen pal relationships, the French students had the opportunity to meet their American hosts and live with the Bayport-Blue Point high school and middle During the day, the French students shadowed district students attending their classes and following their daily schedules. The international students acclimated easily becoming honorary members of the school and participating in class and extracurricular activities. Students created artwork together, completed assignments and learned from one anther inside and out of the classroom. Exposing the French students to the diversity and excitement New York has to offer, students also traveled to New York City together for a day of fine art, American cuisine and museums. Coordinating the program Languages Other Than English (LOTE) Teacher AnnMarie Allen reflected on the similarities between the two groups of students, “Although their backgrounds and geographic locations are very different, students share similar interests and related to one anther easily forming friendships.” The district hopes to continue this successful partnership introducing students to their peers from around the world.
Bayport-Blue Point’s Medieval Manor James Wilson Young Middle School’s garden was transformed into a medieval courtyard filled with Students applied their curriculum knowledge of the Middle Ages developing a festival of crafts, activities and games, which were setup along the weaving pathways of the school. Each station offered a variety of interactive options including, wax candle making, archery, royal puppet show, palm & tarot card readings, beanbag catapult and Sir Chance-a-lots Wheel of Fortune. Students educated their peers and parents on the culture and history of the medieval times bringing their textbook knowledge to life and becoming familiar with people and
Bayport-Blue Point’s Train of Generosity Sylvan Avenue Elementary School came together to celebrate Better Speech and Hearing month by hosting a fundraiser for the Smile Train organization. Smile Train is devoted to helping the millions of children in the world who suffer from cleft lip and palate. Through free surgery, free training for doctors, and research to find a cure Smile Train has provided free cleft palate surgery to more than 370,000 children who would have otherwise never received it. They have also helped train tens of thousands of medical Cooperatively the school’s peer leaders club and speech and hearing department promoted their goal throughout the school designing posters and encouraging their classmates to participate. Students were educated on Smile Train’s mission viewing photos of children pre and post surgery and learned the dynamics of a person’s mouth including how sounds and words are formulated. A bulletin board in the school’s lobby charted the fundraising progress for the school and community to monitor. Every student who donated money received a sticker and button in acknowledgement of their generosity. In addition, the staff participated in denim donation days where teachers wore jeans in support of the program. This was the second consecutive year that the school reached its fundraising goal. The school’s initial goal was to raise $500, which would support two surgeries, but the school and community exceeded expectations raising $1,000, which will be used to complete four cleft palate surgeries. Adding to the school’s impact, a corporate sponsor will be matching their donation adding another four children who will benefit from the surgery. In the fall of the upcoming school year, students will connect with children from around the world receiving photos of the specific children they helped after their completed surgeries. Inspired by Art Academy Street Elementary art students spent the school year examining and replicating diverse artists throughout history and their drawing, painting and sculpting techniques. Paying tribute to a pioneer in Studying O’Keefe’s inspiration found in flowers, rocks, shells and landscapes, students learned how to combine the abstract with real representation. Discovering the vast elements of nature that intrigued them students painted with vibrant colors expressing their personal artistic style.
A Focus on Philanthropy Throughout the school year in Blue Point Elementary Peer Leaders have made it their mission to better the district and community through their outreach programs under the guidance of advisors Lisa In another fundraising effort, Peer Leaders hosted “A Hotdog for a Guide Dog” community dinner for the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind. The Guide Dog Foundation provides guide dogs free of charge to people who are blind, visually impaired or with special needs and that are seeking enhanced mobility and independence. Peer Leaders and parent volunteers
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ceremony. Principal Dr. Timothy Hearney began the festive occasion by highlighting the academic accomplishments of the class. Impressive statistics, included that 95% of graduates having received Regents diplomas and 96% of graduates will be attending post-secondary institutions. 
true hero as someone who completes simple tasks such as being kind, compassionate and giving to others and aids in the advancement of society. Board of Education members then presented students with their diplomas as Senior Class co-advisors Melissa Schwimmer and Celeste Devaney announced each graduate. 
the school’s eighth-grade moving-up ceremony. 
reflecting on what has been, where they are now, and looking towards the future. Foreign Language teacher and Bayport-Blue Point graduate Keith Scharfschwerdt gave the farewell address, illustrating his memories as a student in the district. He reminded the class to take advantage of all the opportunities presented to them. 
graduates with elementary moving-up ceremonies. Academy Street, Blue Point and Sylvan Avenue Elementary School fifth-grade students were recognized for their achievements thus far and encouraged to pursue future successes at James Wilson Young Middle School, where students from all three elementary schools will come together next year. 
and field trips, which helped them to grow as young learners and individuals. To commemorate their years in elementary school, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anthony Annunziato presented each graduating fifth-grader with certificates. 
Play. The Child's Play Touring Theatre engaged students in an intensive writing master class, which demonstrated the unique and sometimes unlikely places they can discover writing inspiration. 
in support of the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind. The Guide Dog Foundation provides guide dogs, free of charge, to people who are blind, visually impaired or with special needs and that are seeking enhanced mobility and independence. 
status in the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) National Merit Program. Spencer’s achievement in the competition places him in the running to receive a $2,500 scholarship through the NMSC. 
with an educational enrichment chess program. The district, in a partnership with the Parent Teacher Association, brought the Long Island Chess Nuts into the school to teach students the game of chess. During the eight-week, after-school program, students learned the rules of the game and winning strategies, while competing in tournaments. 
Second-grade students in Ms. Tilden and Ms. Schroeder's classes completed their unit of study on nonfiction books by focusing their literary lessons on sharks. They selected sharks of interest, including the Great White, Hammerhead, and Tiger Sharks, and researched their physical characteristics, habitat and diet. Adding an artistic element, students constructed interactive, informative dioramas for their peers to study. Other classes viewed the projects, learning more about diverse types of sharks, including some interesting anecdotes related to sharks that students discovered through their research. 
relief efforts and launched a schoolwide clothing collection. Students partnered with Aeropostale's Jeans for Teens program, which sends gently used jeans to the victims of the earthquake. The program’s goal is to inspire school-aged children to collect 100,000 pairs of jeans to support Haiti’s homeless children, teens and adults. Aéropostale has agreed to match that donation with another 100,000 pairs of brand-new jeans.
made predictions pertaining to the movement of a severe storm.
Mr. David Schecher, High School Vocal Jazz Choir directed by Mr. David Johnson, and the Middle School Jazz Band under the direction of Mr. Matthew Hurst. The high-energy musical arrangements were executed with creativity and clarity, and student talents were showcased through a series of solos and duets. 
collaboration of over 290 students and teachers performed on baritone horns & tubas, with guest artists complementing these unique musical presentations. 
postsecondary institution. These top scholars have maintained outstanding academic standings throughout their high school careers and scored exceptionally well on New York State Regents Exams. Pictured here, Bayport-Blue Point High School Principal Dr. Timothy Hearney congratulates scholarship nominees (l-r) Richard Swanson, Brendan Lenz, Stephanie Tubiolo, Jacob Occhiogrosso, Spencer Olsson and Nischay Shah. 
elementary schools. 
between their peers and outlined their roles and responsibilities as school leaders. 
Award recipients. Students were selected based on their excellence in physical education through academic accomplishments, leadership skills and strong character. The nominated students were required to maintain above a 90 grade point average in their high school physical education classes and have an overall 3.0 grade point average in all other curriculum areas at the completion of their 11th grade year. During their physical education classes Brandon and Jennifer demonstrated outstanding effort, participating in games and activities in a cooperative, honest and positive manner. As leaders, these students accepted responsibility for regular class tasks and extended their impact, becoming active members of clubs, organizations and/or athletic teams.
Blue Point Chamber of Commerce for their generous donation to the high school. Supporting the High School’s School to Business Partnership, the chamber’s $500 donation will help to fund the launch the high school store. The store will be organized and run by students, exposing them to the many facets of marketing products. On behalf of the local businesses, Chamber of Commerce President Karl Auwaerter presented the check to the Board of Education and high school. 
students to work toward one common cause. 
accomplished scholar and athlete, Bryan’s resume includes accolades from the National Society of High School Scholars to the Adidas National All-American 2009 Long Island Team.
posters and greeting students with morning jingles, encouraging them to participate during the season of giving. 
Territory.” Making the most of a full-day, in-house field trip, students learned through visual presentations, physical activities and artistic expression. Students toured museum of Native American artifacts and examined ancient pieces including hunting, gathering and cooking tools, as well as items of clothing and structures for shelter. Through simulations and instruction students learned how to construct, care for, and effectively utilize the products necessary for survival and building a thriving culture. A mini longhouse was even erected for students to walkthrough. From inside they were able to touch the various pelts Native Americans used for warmth, shelter and daily products.
. Molding each piece students personalized their art by engraving them with Native American symbolic designs. Uaian also led students in traditional games that were used to strengthen and hone Native American children’s hunting skills. Students imitated the historical training methods attempting to throw wooden spears through a woven moving target.
student Spencer Olsson has been honored as a Semifinalist. As an academically talented high school senior, Spencer has the opportunity to advance in the competition to Finalist status and receive a National Merit Scholarship. 
school year. 
Students selected diverse regions to research and created a comprehensive presentation to share with their peers. 
Aviation and Space Education program. This partnership, between the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), brings the air traffic control experience into the classroom. 
preservation of natural resources within the community, as well as around the globe. 
school students within the community for two weeks. 
students, teachers and community members dressed in authentic tunics, capes, gowns and crowns and equipped with swords and shields. 
places of the past. 
professionals, establishing programs in over 75 countries and operating on over 300 children a day. 
modern American artistic style students created an impressive display based on the signature style of Georgia O'Keefe. 
Bartenback and Ashley Campbell. Spreading spring throughout the island, students crafted tissue paper flowers and designed cards with friendly messages, which they delivered to nursing home residents. Residents’ faces lit up with joy as bouquets of color filled the hall. Each resident enjoyed the personal present and decorated their rooms with the bright blooms. 
invited the district to enjoy a hotdog dinner made to order, complete with baked beans, chips and dessert. Local businesses donated baskets of prizes to be raffled off to diners with packages ranging from family movie night to gardening kits. Students raised an impressive $850, which the Guide Dog Foundation will use to purchase and train a future guide dog companion.