Sachem High School East recently hosted its annual March Madness spring fundraiser, combining athletic excitement with community impact. The event featured a packed day of basketball games, a thrilling three-point contest, high-energy dodgeball championships and schoolwide competitions, all contributing to a lively and charitable atmosphere for students in grades 9 through 12.

Organized by Sachem East’s Student Government Club under the guidance of Mr. Gallo and Mr. Jannace, the fundraiser raised an impressive $3,000 for the Long Island State Veterans Home. The day wasn’t just about fun and games – it also served as an opportunity to highlight the essential mission of the Veterans Home, a major teaching affiliate of Stony Brook Medicine. The facility provides top-tier health care to Long Island veterans while also serving as a leading center for geriatric research and education.

Beyond supporting the Veterans Home, the funds raised will also contribute to PTA scholarships, continuing Sachem East’s strong tradition of student-led service and academic support. The event was a powerful reminder of how school spirit and community service can come together to make a meaningful difference.

Date Added: 4/24/2025

On March 28, students from Sachem High School East’s French 5/AP class, led by teacher Ana Meadows, embarked on a cultural journey to the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City. The visit featured a guided tour centered on works by francophone artists and those influenced by the Impressionist movement.

Students explored iconic pieces, including Claude Monet’s “Water Lilies,” Henri Matisse’s “The Red Studio,” Joan Mitchell’s “Grandes Carrières” and Vincent van Gogh’s “Starry Night.” The tour also included the Gallery 501 exhibit, “French Landscapes and Interiors.”

The guide connected each work of art to the AP French theme of “Beauty and Aesthetics,” encouraging students to reflect on how Impressionism has shaped cultural identity and artistic expression. Students also participated in interactive, hands-on activities that deepened their engagement with the art and allowed them to express their personal interpretations.

Following the museum visit, the group enjoyed lunch at Brasserie Cognac in midtown Manhattan, where they experienced a taste of traditional French cuisine.

Date Added: 4/22/2025

Science Research students from Sachem High School North and Sachem High School East showcased their hard work and innovation at the 2025 Long Island Science Congress, held on April 8 at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City. The annual competition brings together approximately 900 students from 80 schools across Nassau and Suffolk counties, making it one of the region’s most competitive science fairs.

Sachem’s students presented original research projects spanning a wide range of disciplines, including medicine and health, ecology, sociology, mycology, and materials science. Each student participated in three rounds of judging, where they explained the purpose of their research, outlined their methodology, presented their data and analysis, and discussed their conclusions and plans for continued investigation.

The event provided a valuable platform for students to engage with professionals in the field, gain feedback and practice communicating complex scientific ideas. Their participation reflects the strength and depth of Sachem’s Science Research Program and its commitment to fostering the next generation of scientists and innovators.

Date Added: 4/11/2025

On Wednesday, April 9, Sachem High School East welcomed the #SameHere Global Mental Health Movement for a powerful and inspiring assembly focused on mental wellness. The event featured organization founder and former sports marketing executive Erik Kussin, along with former NBA player Michael Sweetney, who shared their personal journeys and emphasized the importance of mental health awareness and support.

The assembly created a safe, open space for students to engage in meaningful conversations about mental wellness. Kussin and Sweetney spoke candidly about their own struggles and triumphs, helping to break the stigma often associated with mental health. Their stories highlighted the message at the heart of the #SameHere movement – that mental health challenges are a universal experience and it’s okay to speak up and seek help.

Through heartfelt storytelling, real-life experiences and open dialogue, students were encouraged to check in with themselves and each other, and to understand that no one is alone in their struggles. The event emphasized community, connection and the importance of resilience, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended.

Sachem East continues to prioritize student well-being and is proud to bring important initiatives like #SameHere into the school community to promote understanding, empathy and support for all.

Date Added: 4/11/2025

Sachem High School East students in Mrs. McGrath’s and Ms. Killoran’s English classes recently stepped into the spotlight with a unique and empowering project – delivering their own TED-style talks as part of their research paper unit. This dynamic assignment combined in-depth academic research with public speaking, allowing students to dive into topics they were genuinely passionate about and bring their findings to life for their peers.

With the support of East librarian Mrs. Wrightson, students conducted thorough research using the school’s academic databases. They developed outlines, wrote drafts, revised their work and learned how to properly cite sources using APA format. But the project didn’t end with the traditional paper. Students then turned their research into live presentations, developing and delivering TED Talks in front of their classmates.

The results were impressive and inspiring. Students presented on a wide range of thought-provoking topics, incorporating personal experiences and emotional insights that added depth to their work. Presentations included everything from “The Evolution of the NFL” and “The Psychology Behind Golf” to complex topics like “Physician-Assisted Suicide,” “AI’s Impact on Education” and “How Trauma Can Be Passed Through Generations.”

Each talk was followed by a supportive peer feedback session, where classmates highlighted strengths and celebrated one another’s achievements. This positive environment helped boost students’ confidence and encouraged thoughtful discussion on important issues.

By blending research, writing and public speaking, this project gave students the chance to take ownership of their learning and develop real-world communication skills. Sachem East is proud of these students for their courage, creativity and commitment to sharing their voices in such a meaningful way.

Click here to view the Spotlight on Sachem East: Students Take the Stage With TED Talk Presentations slideshow.

Date Added: 4/11/2025