Seneca Middle School recently celebrated the success of a dynamic, yearlong collaboration between school librarian Ms. Estevez-Creedon and public librarian Ms. Furnari. This innovative partnership was designed to bridge classroom learning with the extensive resources of both school and public libraries, offering students enriched educational experiences in literature and STEM.

Throughout the school year, students participated in workshops, special events and curated book recommendations – all thoughtfully aligned with their academic curriculum. A standout feature of the program was its emphasis on technology and hands-on learning. Students engaged with robotics tools like mBots and Ozobots, which brought STEAM concepts to life through interactive exploration.

“This partnership not only expanded students’ access to books and resources but also fostered a love for reading and learning that could last a lifetime,” Ms. Estevez-Creedon said. “By aligning library events with what students were learning in the classroom and incorporating technology, we created a dynamic environment where students could see how their academic interests connect to the real world.”

The impact of the program was clear. This week, 330 students signed up for the public library’s summer reading program, reflecting a strong and growing enthusiasm for reading and learning.

Seneca Middle School looks forward to continuing this successful collaboration, which has already provided countless meaningful learning opportunities and inspired students to explore new ideas both inside and outside the classroom.

Date Added: 5/28/2025

Date Added: 5/23/2025

Sachem High School East senior Krish Malik has been named a recipient of the prestigious New York State Math Honor Society Scholarship. A standout student and leader, Krish plans to attend Stony Brook University this fall, where he will major in computer science.

As co-president of the Math Honor Society, Krish has played a key role in organizing events, planning future club activities and fostering teamwork among members. His leadership and commitment to academic excellence have made a lasting impact on both his peers and teachers.

Recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction, Krish has demonstrated exceptional problem-solving skills, intellectual curiosity and a strong work ethic throughout his academic career. His dedication to mathematics and passion for helping others make him a deserving recipient of this honor.

The Sachem community congratulates Krish on this outstanding achievement.

Date Added: 5/22/2025

Sachem High School East, Sagamore Middle School and Chippewa Elementary School once again demonstrated their commitment to service and community this spring by raising a remarkable $11,478 in support of the ALS Ride for Life. The fundraising initiative was led by Sachem East’s Student Government, under the guidance of advisers Mr. Gallo and Mr. Jannace, with strong support from Sagamore and Chippewa.

This year’s event was held in honor of ALS patient advocate David Phillips, who participated in the event by making the journey in his scooter, cheered on by crowds of students, families and staff. The annual tradition included a symbolic walk from Sachem East to Sagamore Middle School and then to Chippewa Elementary School, raising both awareness and funds for ALS research and patient care.

Sachem East raised $7,950, Sagamore contributed $3,128 and Chippewa added $400, bringing the districtwide total to $11,478. These efforts once again make Sachem East the largest single school donor to the ALS Ride for Life.

Over the years, Student Government at East, along with honor societies and dedicated families, have organized community walks, assemblies and popular fundraising events like dodgeball and basketball tournaments. Notably, Sachem East was the first group to return to the streets with the Ride for Life following the COVID-19 pandemic and previously coordinated the District’s only four-school Ride for Life.

The connection to the cause runs deep. Students first developed a close relationship with ALS Ride for Life Founder Chris Pendergast and continue to support the mission through ongoing collaboration with Christine Pendergast and Paul Weissman, who carry on his legacy.

Sachem’s continued efforts exemplify leadership, compassion and the power of youth activism. The District is proud of all involved for their dedication to making a difference in the fight to cure ALS.

Date Added: 5/22/2025

AP World History students from Sachem East High School recently traveled to New York City to enrich their understanding of key historical topics studied throughout the year. Accompanied by teachers Mrs. Gearns and Mr. Jannace, the group embarked on an immersive learning experience that brought history to life in meaningful and memorable ways.

The day began with a visit to “Anne Frank: The Exhibition” at the Center for Jewish History. This powerful exhibit offered students the chance to connect with Anne Frank’s story not just as a Holocaust victim, but as a writer, a young girl and a symbol of resilience. Students toured a life-size recreation of the secret annex where the Frank family, the Van Pels family and Fritz Pfeffer hid during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. Modeled closely after the original in Amsterdam, the exhibition gave students a deeply personal and emotional perspective on the Holocaust.

Following the morning’s moving experience, the students enjoyed lunch outdoors in Central Park before heading to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. There, they participated in a curriculum-based photo scavenger hunt, searching for artwork and artifacts that aligned with the major units covered in their AP World History course. The creative and thoughtful responses impressed both teachers and chaperones – Mrs. Bongiorno, Mr. Cellini and Mrs. Melandro – who praised the students for their engagement, insight and respectful conduct throughout the trip.

The field trip provided students with opportunities to connect classroom learning to real-world contexts, deepening their understanding of global history through both reflection and exploration.

 

Date Added: 5/22/2025