The Long Beach Public Schools’ Nov. 8 Board of Education Meeting honored students for their achievements and highlighted district initiatives. Accomplishments in music and the arts were commended, and administrators presented on Long Beach High School’s expanding business program.  

Long Beach Middle School sixth-grader Jesse Hubbs was congratulated as one of only 13 students throughout the state that were selected to the 13th Annual Piano Showcase at the 2018 New York State School Music Association All State Conference. He shared a riveting performance before members of the Board, administration and community at the meeting and was met with a standing ovation. 

Five high school students were recognized for their acceptances to All-State music ensembles. John Aebly joins the All-State Symphonic Band. Joshua Kapilian and Thomas Walsh will participate in the All-State Vocal Jazz Ensemble and are also alternates; Joshua for the All-State Orchestra and Thomas for the All-State Mixed Chorus. Alec Chasin will be part of the Symphonic Band and Layla Hakimzadeh and Shea McMahon were selected as All-State alternates. 

Also honored was high school senior Nina Capofarri for her Scholar-Artist recognition through the Long Island Arts Alliance. She was awarded in the category of Media Arts. 

High School Principal Jeffrey Myers, Interim Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Ayesha McArthur and Coordinator of ENL and Student Internships Evelyn Daza led an overview of the business program, which is designed to provide students with the essential skills and knowledge to be prepared for college and a career, and to be productive citizens in a global community. A variety of business courses are offered, students receive authentic learning experiences through opportunities such as Virtual Enterprise and DECA, and the up-and-coming internship program will enable students to connect their interests and education to work experience. 

The meeting also included a report from Cullen & Danowski, the district’s auditing firm. The financial report noted that the district is in good financial condition from watching its budget and generating revenue whenever possible. The auditors highlighted the $2 million of savings for community taxpayers based on refinancing some of the outstanding school preservation plan debt.

The district looks forward to sharing more student achievements and news about the business program in the future.