http://www.lbeach.org Copyright 2012 Syntax Communications Sabrina Eager and Karla Umanzor were crowned champions in the District Spanish Spelling Bee. Competing against students in grades four and five, Sabrina, a fifth grader at Lido School, finished in first place in the elementary division. Finishing in second place was Hannah Zelinger, also from Lido School. In the middle school competition, Karla, an eighth grader, finished first, with sixth grader Paulina Cardona earning a second-place trophy. The girls were comfortable sharing the spotlight and the winner’s circle. Last year, Paulina, who was the reigning 2010 state champion, finished first, with Karla right behind her in second place. Betsabe Montoya, a language teacher from the middle school, was the moderator. Three language teachers, Anna Carfagno, Aime Rivero and Sandra Yanowitch, served as the judges. The event was organized by District Director of World Languages and ELL Programs Vivian Fiallo. “We are very proud of the accomplishments of all of our students,” said Ms. Fiallo. “This annual Spanish Spelling Bee gives both our native speakers and non-native speakers an opportunity to showcase their knowledge of the Spanish language. My thanks to all of their teachers and parents for helping our students prepare for this event.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5782 Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Teams of fifth graders from East and West Schools finished second and third, respectively, in the first-ever Dancing Classrooms Long Island Festival & Colors of the Rainbow Team Match. The ballroom dancing competition took place on Sunday, April 29 at Sachem High School North in Lake Ronkonkoma. The East School team of Emily McDonnell, Javonte Neals, Jade Burkes, Marquial Charles, Jessica Guadagnino, Aidan Kennedy, Emma McGovern, Natalie Goggin, Giovanni Mangiafreno, Luis Garcia Portillo, Jasmin Johnson and Alec Chasin practiced under the coaching supervision of teacher-in-charge Sharon Weiss and music teacher Michele Bennett. The West School team of Mia Enright, Dane Ceniceros, George Weisendanger, Fiona Eramo, Emily Nazitsky-Piernick, Cory Eisel, Leila Bouchal, Lauren Bulik, John Whelan, Emma Herbert, Nicholas Guido and Joseph Carr were coached by school social worker Deb Bernardino and teacher Eileen Clarke. Dancing Classrooms is an innovative character education program that encourages students to cultivate mutual respect, collaboration and self-esteem through ballroom dancing. In the process, students also learn to do a mean tango, foxtrot and waltz. Earlier in the year, the entire fifth grade at East and West Schools completed ten weeks of classes through a Dancing Classrooms residency. The festival gave these students the opportunity to come together with other Nassau and Suffolk school communities in a display of elegance, partnership and civility that paid tribute to the invaluable life lessons the participants have acquired through Dancing Classrooms. “Students have become more poised and confident because of their participation in this program,” noted Ms. Weiss. “Dancing together has helped them become more mature about interacting with one another,” added Ms. Bennett. “It is rewarding to see students interacting with their peers with respect and courtesy.” Each participating school sent a team of students as its representatives in the competition. The team selection process was threefold: a combination of student, teaching artist and classroom teacher nominations. Students were nominated based on their ability to demonstrate the Dancing Classrooms values of honor, respect, acceptance and self-confidence, as well as a passion for social dance. This festive affair included the Colors of the Rainbow Team Match competition (as seen in the film Mad Hot Ballroom), a special dance exhibition of Dancing Classrooms’ eighth-grade syllabus, performances by special guests, and selected readings and artwork created by Dancing Classrooms students. Video footage from this event will be featured in an upcoming documentary on Dancing Classrooms Long Island. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5784 Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Family and friends gathered in the high school auditorium for a solemn ceremony marking the induction of 91 new members into the Long Beach High School Arista Chapter of the National Honor Society. These initiates, taken from the ranks of the sophomore and junior classes, were chosen based on their ability to meet the Society's standards with regard to scholarship, leadership, character and service. They will join their fellow members in upholding these principles by contributing their time and talents to better their school and local community through volunteer activities, civic involvement and adherence to the highest standards of academics, morality and ethics. The festivities began with a musical performance by the Select Choir, conducted by Michael Capobianco. A candle lighting ceremony, officiated by Honor Society officers and NHS Coordinator Nora Bellsey, highlighted the four ideals of the society. Each new member was asked to come to the stage to light a candle as a symbol of his or her commitment to uphold those ideals. Social studies teacher Elizabeth Levin was chosen as this year's recipient of an honorary membership. “Now the challenge begins,” said Ms. Bellsey in her opening remarks. “Ask yourself, ‘How can I go beyond my expectations and continue to make good choices?’ Please always act as if everything you do makes a difference, because it does.” “You made a choice that brought you here tonight,” said Board of Education President Dr. Dennis Ryan. “You made a choice to study and to achieve, and we are gathered here tonight to salute the excellence that you represent.” “It wasn’t long ago that I was in the audience when my own children were inducted into the National Honor Society,” recalled Superintendent David Weiss. “We want you to know how proud your parents are tonight. Thank you for honoring your parents and your community. Take the responsibility to continue to challenge yourselves. Think about what you are learning and how it will contribute to your personal growth. Make sure that your service activities are not just lines on your resume, but that they truly impact your community.” Over the course of the year, under the leadership of Honor Society officers Andrew Hurst, Andrew Di Giorgio, Lila Martz, Arianne Papa and Alexa Salazar, Honor Society members have organized numerous community service projects, including Badminton for Breast Cancer, the Stick It to Cancer lacrosse game and Operation Medicine Cabinet. Members have also volunteered countless hours as tutors, coaches and ushers for school events. At the close of the ceremony, Principal Gaurav Passi left the new inductees with these words of advice: “As you continue on this path of success, I caution you not to fear failure. I want you to know that struggle, adversity and even failure are the breeding grounds on which success is born.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5786 Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Jazz in all its forms, from the Swing Era to more contemporary numbers, was interpreted in all its glory when the Long Beach High School Music Department hosted its annual Jazz Night. Student performers from the West School Recorder Club, Middle School Jazz Band, High School Lab Jazz Band, Select Choir and High School Jazz Ensemble were joined by special guests Sherrie Maricle and the DIVA Jazz Orchestra, filling the auditorium with the music of Herbie Hancock, Buster and Bennie Moten, and Joe Garland. As an added treat, junior Russell Goetz, who is an All-State Jazz Vocalist, performed a solo rendition of “Come Rain or Come Shine.” For the opening reception, the high school commons area was transformed into a cozy lounge. Hors d'oeuvres prepared by students in Scott Brecher’s home and careers class were passed around to guests. Members of the newly formed Friends of the Arts were on hand to welcome guests, and National Honor Society members volunteered their time as ushers. Director of Comprehensive Arts Dr. Dale Johanson served as the MC for the evening. Marino Bragino, III directed the High School Lab Jazz Band and the High School Jazz Ensemble. He was joined by fellow directors Vanessa Krywe (West School Recorder Band), Elizabeth Altbacker (Middle School Jazz Band), and Michael Capobianco (Select Choir). This is the first year that a professional jazz band has shared the stage with students on Jazz Night, giving the young performers, as well as the audience, an opportunity to further expand their appreciation of jazz in all its forms. “It was an exciting experience to see all of our student musicians at all grade levels performing jazz alongside a professional group like the DIVAS,” said Dr. Johanson. “Jazz Night was an amazing success,” echoed Mr. Bragino. “Seeing my students light up on stage when they perform is why I became a music educator. This evening was a legendary moment in our department. Thanks to all who helped make this event such a success." http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5664 Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT May 15 - Board of Education Meeting Budget Vote/Election Night - 10PM in Long Beach Middle School. Normal.dotm 0 0 1 39 223 @ Home Productions 1 1 273 12.0 0 false 18 pt 18 pt 0 0 false false false /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that there will be a meeting of the Board of Education on Tuesday, May 15, 2012 at 10:00 PM in the Cafeteria of the Long Beach Middle School, 239 Lido Boulevard, Lido Beach, New York 11561. The results of the election will be the sole agenda item. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5641 Wed, 09 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT As part of an annual tradition, members of the Long Beach League of Women Voters visited classes at Long Beach High School to lead discussions about the importance of voting and civic responsibility. While they were there, league members helped 134 seniors register to vote. Those students who turn 18 before the respective dates of the school board elections and budget vote, primary elections, and November elections are eligible to vote. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5631 Tue, 08 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT High School senior Vincent Pasqua won a first-place award in the Level 2 division of the American Association of Teachers of Italian (AATI) Long Island Poetry Contest, held at SUNY Old Westbury on March 23. Vincent recited "Se Questo è un Uomo" by Primo Levi. Junior Ellen Blas won an honorable mention award in the Level 4 division. She recited “All'Italia” by Giacomo Leopardi. They competed against approximately 100 students from all over Nassau and Suffolk counties. Students prepared for the competition under the direction of Italian teachers Valeria Paz and Anna Carfagno. The AATI is a national organization dedicated to excellence in teaching and research in all areas of Italian. The organization was founded in 1924 to promote the study of Italian language, literature and culture in schools, colleges and universities in North America. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5597 Mon, 07 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT For the second year in a row, a Long Beach High School team took home a grand prize in the International Sustainable World (Engineering, Energy and Environment) Project Olympiad (I-SWEEEP), which took place in Houston, Texas on May 3-6. Competing against more than 450 top projects from over 40 states and 68 countries around the world, seniors Arianne Papa and Jane Smyth earned a gold medal in the Environmental category and went on to capture the coveted Grand Award in that category. They followed in the footsteps of Long Beach graduates Jackie Bokor and Hannah Berkowitz, who won both top prizes at the 2011 competition. Arianne and Jane’s research studied water pollution in Reynold’s Channel as well as the other Long Island bays, and the effect that pollution has on the flounder populations in those waterways. In addition, junior Caroline Walsh earned a silver medal in the Energy category. Caroline created solar cells that use natural pigments found in plants such as carrots, blueberries and beets to harness solar power. Together the three students earned $3,800 in prize money. Arianne and Jane are no strangers to the I-SWEEEP Winner’s Circle. This is the third consecutive year they earned gold medals in the Environmental category. The first year they competed at I-SWEEEP as freshmen, they took home a bronze medal. But the pair won’t have much time to bask in the glory of victory. They will be heading off to Pittsburgh on May 13-18 to compete at the 2012 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair, where they will be joined by fellow seniors Andrew Hurst and Zachary Klein. Students developed their winning projects in the Science Research program, under the direction of Science Research teachers Cody Onufrock and Veronica Ade. Organized by the Cosmos Foundation, I-SWEEEP is the largest science fair event of its kind in the world. According to the official I-SWEEEP website, the objective of the competition is to spark interest in and awareness of our planet’s sustainability challenges; to accelerate the progress toward a sustainable world by engaging young minds at an early age to develop an environmentally conscious global community; and to inspire personal responsibility in caring for the planet and those who share it. Over $350,000 in scholarships and prizes are awarded each year. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5598 Mon, 07 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The high school auditorium became a stage for world dance as students in the International Baccalaureate (IB) dance class presented their spring dance concert. The concert consisted of dance numbers that reflected African and Irish folk dances, traditional ballet and modern dance movements that students have been learning throughout the course of the year. Many of the routines featured choreography, costume design and staging by IB dance students and their teacher, Christianne Donohue. Through their choreography, students were challenged to create movement that enhanced the rhythms, tempos and accents of the music. “My goal for this performance was to introduce dance as a true performing art to the students, faculty and community members of Long Beach High School,” said Ms. Donohue. “My intention was to allow the students to explore movement from all angles and to learn that dance is more than fancy tricks. It is about moving from within the body in space using various rhythms and patterns.” The IB dance course, which was offered for the first time this year, integrates the study of dance performance, compositions and analysis. During the course of the year, students explored dance styles from cultures throughout the world. In addition to gaining performance skills, they studied master choreographers from past centuries and learned to compose their own dances through a variety of improvisational techniques and creative projects. By exploring a wide variety of dance forms, from ballet to modern to folk dance, they acquired a well-rounded understanding of the significance of dance in every culture and the pattern of its development throughout the world. IB Dance is offered through the Athletics, Physical Education and Health Department. “I am proud of the accomplishments of our first IB Dance class,” said Director of Athletics, Physical Education and Health Arnold Epstein. “I look forward to seeing many more students benefit from Ms. Donohue's talent and expertise.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5599 Mon, 07 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Junior Christy Fox was selected to attend the Students Inside Albany Conference. This conference, sponsored by the League of Women Voters of New York, is an intensive four-day training experience designed to immerse students in the process by which public policy is proposed, enacted and changed in New York State, and to educate them as to how they can influence and affect this process. Christy heard from Albany insiders about how New York State government operates and how policy is shaped and enacted. She was also given the opportunity to attend Assembly and Senate sessions and to shadow both Assemblyman Harvey Weisenberg and Senator Dean Skelos. Christy was selected for this honor through the joint efforts of Long Beach High School and the Long Beach League of Women Voters. According to its official website, the League of Women Voters of New York believes that educating and empowering the youth of our country is vital to maintaining a strong democracy. Through the League’s Education Foundation, the State League and many local leagues operate programs that provide students with the information, motivation and skills needed to become informed voters and engaged citizens. The State League’s primary youth program is Students Inside Albany. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5529 Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The entire student body of Long Beach Middle School filed out to the front lawn of their school, one class at a time, to sign their names on a steel beam right before it was put in place as one of the ceiling beams that will soon support the new lobby of their school. The school is undergoing renovations as part of a districtwide School Preservation Plan approved by voters in May 2009. Among the middle school projects slated for completion in 2012 are a new library media center, guidance office renovation, relocation of the main office, new restrooms, ADA-compliant upgrades and security improvements. A new track and field complex was completed in September 2010. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5510 Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT <br clear="all" /> <script language="javascript" src="http://www.lbeach.org/lbps/worldlanguage.js"></script> http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5528 Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Two of the main goals of Long Beach Public Schools are to provide students with college and career-readiness skills and to give them meaningful opportunities for community engagement. To help fulfill both of these goals, schools around the district hosted Career Day celebrations, giving students a chance to meet and speak with local professionals. The guest speakers shared their keys to success and their insights into dozens of traditional and nontraditional careers. Leading off the celebration was the Long Beach Middle School Career Day. In the days leading up to the event, students filled out surveys to give them an idea of which careers might best suit their interests and abilities. The middle schoolers were paired with specific presenters based on their survey results. In small group settings, guest speakers talked about the skills and training they needed to be successful in their chosen careers, the tasks they perform on the job, and the challenges and rewards they experience on a daily basis. At the end of the day, students came away with a list of ideas for things they can start doing now to help them reach their future career goals. The Long Beach High School Career Fair gave students an opportunity to network with local professionals representing a wide variety of careers, including law, medicine, public service, marketing, broadcasting, public relations, green technologies, school administration, business, finance, banking, accounting, hospitality, publishing, library services and the military. Students were also able to speak with representatives from local technical schools and explore summer job opportunities in the local community. Lindell School hosted a two-day Career Awareness program for fifth graders. Parents and community members were invited to share their career experiences, focusing on the education and training needed to be successful in their careers. Brian Patton, who works for Global Security at NBC, explained the importance of working as a team, being responsible and demonstrating strong character. Long Beach Fire Chief Richard Corbett found math, science and history very helpful in his career. Andrew Miller, a criminal defense attorney, enlisted students to help him solve the "The Case of the Missing Lunch Box." Pediatrician Dr. Matthew Cohen shared his lifelong fascination with the human body. Although the 18 guest speakers represented a variety of professions, they all shared a love for their work and stressed the importance of being lifelong learners. At Lido School’s Sixth Annual Career Fair, students went on a hands-on adventure in career exploration, led by alumni, parents and local professionals representing careers as varied as real estate, law enforcement, web design, retail merchandising, lifeguarding and communications. Lts. Anthony Fallon and Sam Pinto of the Long Beach Fire Department allowed students to don their fire gear to help them experience what it feels like to be a firefighter. Drago Karodzic, the pizza chef at Long Beach Middle School, invited students to make their own pizzas. Local radio celebrity Halftime Howie simulated a radio broadcast. Chuck Kupfer, a golf pro at the Lido Golf Club, demonstrated the basics of a good swing. Master Park of Park’s Martial Arts in Long Beach led students in a tae kwon do exercise. One of the most celebrated professionals of the day was Freeport police officer Dave Karp’s canine partner Gunnar, who delighted students with a demonstration of his unique law enforcement skills. Proving that it is never too early to start planning for future careers, West School kindergartners celebrated Community Day, creating a mini city called Westland in which they served as the bankers, grocery clerks, postal carriers, police officers and firefighters who kept the city humming. To prepare for Community Day, they visited local merchants and public services to learn more about the people who work in their neighborhood. In June, the older children at West School will celebrate their own Career Day, welcoming local community members to share useful advice that will help them start preparing for a host of promising careers. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5463 Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Two LBHS Teams Qualify for Intel ISEF Competing at the Long Island Science and Engineering Fair (LISEF), two teams of Long Beach High School students received first-place awards, qualifying them for the 2012 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), in Pittsburgh, PA on May 13-18. Arianne Papa and Jane Smyth, both seniors, won first place in the Environmental Sciences category and also received the I-SWEEEP Award. Arianne and Jane studied water pollution in Reynold’s Channel as well as the other Long Island bays, and the effect that the pollution has on the flounder populations within those waterways. They have proposed to utilize local mussels for bioremediation of the polluted waters. Andrew Hurst and Zachary Klein, also seniors, took first place in the Electrical and Mechanical Engineering category. In addition to their first-place finish, they won the National Society of Professional Engineers Award. Andrew and Zachary were able to create a wind turbine that captured both wind and solar energy in order to improve energy efficiency of the device. Several other students achieved notable results at LISEF. Junior Caroline Walsh earned a second-place award in Energy and Transportation. Caroline created solar cells that used natural pigments found in plants such as carrots, blueberries and beets, to harness solar power. Juniors Brandon Levokove and David Velez took home a third-place award in Plant Sciences, as well as an award from the American Meteorological Society. David and Brandon used a fungus to remove harmful pollutants such as acid rain, and also to reduce dependency on fertilizers, thus reducing the harmful effect of runoff. Sophomores Chandler McMillan and Hunter Rogoff received honorable mention in the Environmental Management category, as well as the Ricoh Sustainability Award. Their research involved the use of soybeans in combination with either a bacteria or a fungus to remove aluminum contaminants from soil. ISEF, which is one of the world’s premier global science competitions for students in grades 9-12, provides an annual forum for more than 1,500 high school students from 65 countries, regions and territories to display their independent research. Three Students to Compete at I-SWEEEP Long Beach High School students Arianne Papa, Jane Smyth and Caroline Walsh all qualified to compete at the International Sustainable World (Engineering, Energy & Environment) Project Olympiad (I-SWEEEP) on May 3-6 in Houston, TX. They will join more than 1,000 top high school researchers from all over the world to share ideas, experience and knowledge to promote global sustainability. LBMS Students Compete at LI Science Congress At the junior level, 13 students were chosen to represent Long Beach Middle School at the Long Island Science Congress Junior Division at Farmingdale State College on March 29. The students who qualified to compete were Kailey Ahearn, Mashiyat Ahmed, Gabrielle Ayzenberg, Chloe Curley, Kelly Cannon, Savannah Kile, Kristen Miciotta, Shane Morris, Mary Sabedra, Leah Shokrian, Justin Simms, Ali Thursland and Cassidy Zawatson. Award winners will be announced at the end of April. The students were selected based on their performance in the Long Beach Middle School Science Fair and a second qualifying round at their school. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5440 Sun, 29 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Lido Spring Concert May 8 at 10:00 in the high school auditorium (previously scheduled for April 27). http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5402 Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that there will be a meeting of the Board of Education on Tuesday, May 1, 2012, at 5:30 PM in room 357 of Long Beach High School, 322 Lagoon Drive West, Lido Beach, New York. It is anticipated that the Board will then vote to go into an executive session to discuss personnel issues regarding specific personnel and pending and proposed legal matters. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5411 Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT MSG Varsity to telecast Varsity Boys LAX vs. Wantagh match from Thurs. Apr. 26. Link to more information http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5395 Wed, 25 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT SEPTA Meeting and Rap session with Budget Presentation Wednesday 4/25/12 at 7pm in the HS Library. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5378 Wed, 25 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT May 5: Free Heart Screenings for LBMS Athletes On Saturday May 5, beginning at 8 a.m., the Long Beach School District and the Steven and Alexandra Cohen Children’s Medical Center of the North Shore Long Island Jewish Health Care System will be offering a free voluntary screening heart ultrasound (echocardiogram) and electrocardiogram (ECG) for Long Beach Middle School eighth graders who plan to participate in district sports programs. The ultrasound exam is conducted to identify abnormalities that may not be apparent on customary pre-participation physical examinations. The exam evaluates the size and function of the left pumping chamber of the heart (left ventricle) and the size of the main artery of the body (aorta), as well as the function of its valve (aortic valve). Abnormal left ventricular size (cardiomyopathy) or abnormal aorta size or function may result in abnormalities of heart function when an individual participates in organized, competitive sports. Parents who are interested in having their children participate in the free screening must fill out a consent form and questionnaire and submit them to the Middle School Health Office as soon as possible. For more information, contact Barbara Young RN, or MaryBeth Thurston RN, at the Middle School (516-897-2150). This program was made possible by a grant from Ms. Susan Helsinger, The Jason Gruen-Helsinger Foundation and State Senator Charles Fuschillo. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5396 Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Board of Education has officially appointed Steven Kamlet as the district’s new Director of Nutrition Services, effective April 18, 2012. Mr. Kamlet was most recently in charge of food services in the Mamaroneck School District. He is a registered dietitian with over 15 years of experience in health care, fitness and wellness initiatives in a variety of settings, including K-12 public schools, major medical centers, nursing homes and personal and corporate wellness. Mr. Kamlet received his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Ohio State University and his master’s degree in nutrition from Long Island University. He has completed additional continuing education programs in school lunch nutrition and wellness, leadership, discipline and affirmative action. He is an avid scuba diver and an American Red Cross water safety instructor and lifeguard “I have a passion for educating everyone about making healthy food and fitness choices,” said Mr. Kamlet. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5388 Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach City School District was one of 166 school districts across the country and 17 on Long Island to be recognized as a Best Community for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation. On April 17, the NAMM Foundation announced the results of its 13th annual Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) survey, which acknowledges schools and districts across the U.S. for their commitment to and support for music education in schools. This is the second year in a row that the Long Beach City School District has earned this distinction. The BCME survey is a nationwide search for communities whose programs exemplify a strong commitment to music education. Established in 1999, BCME recognizes and celebrates schools, their administrators, teachers, board members, parents and students for their support of music education and their efforts to ensure access to all students as part of the core curriculum. Each school receiving the “Best Communities” designation scored in the 80th percentile or higher in the survey’s grading process. Participants in the survey answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and other relevant factors in their communities’ music education programs. The responses were verified with district officials and the data was reviewed by advisory organizations. The 2011 survey was conducted in collaboration with the Institute for Educational Research and Public Service of Lawrence, Kansas, an affiliate of the University of Kansas. More than 1,600 students participate in the Long Beach School District’s 36 bands, orchestras and choral ensembles. Students in grades 5-12 participate in All-State, All-County, LISFA and NYSSMA festivals. In 2011-2012, four students earned All-State honors, 54 were named All-County musicians, and seven were chosen to perform at the Long Island String Festival. The High School Marching Band participates every year in the Newsday Marching Band Festival held at Hofstra University. Long Beach High School is one of only a handful of schools on Long Island that offers a guitar class as part of its arts curriculum, and the only guitar program in which students present a multi-act stage show at the end of the year. School groups also perform at various venues throughout Long Beach as a service to the community. The high school gives talented music students the opportunity to join the Tri-M Music Honor Society. Members tutor younger musicians and perform community outreach work. “This two-time honor is a well-deserved recognition for the community, district leaders, teachers and parents who believe in music education and are assuring that it is part of a complete education for children in our schools,” said Dr. Dale Johanson, the District Director of Comprehensive Arts. “It holds us up as an example of community support and commitment to music education.” A copy of the survey can be downloaded for review at www.nammfoundation.org. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5387 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School junior Shannon Romig received a total of three national and state awards acknowledging exceptional service to her community. The first award was a Certificate of Excellence from the Prudential Spirit of Community program, a nationwide program that honors young people for outstanding acts of volunteerism. Shannon was also honored with the President’s Volunteer Service Award, presented by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation, in recognition and appreciation of her commitment to strengthening our nation and making a difference through volunteer service. “In my inaugural address, I stated that we need a new era of responsibility and recognition on the part of every American that we have duties to ourselves, our nation and the world,” stated President Barack Obama in a letter addressed to Shannon. “Your volunteer service demonstrates the kind of commitment to your community that moves America a step closer to its great promise.” Most recently, Shannon was selected as the Nassau Region recipient of the NYS PTA Youth Humanitarian Award in Honor of Stanley Marcus. According to the NYS PTA official website, the Stanley Marcus Award is presented to high school junior or senior students who best exemplify the humanitarian principles of Stanley Marcus who died in 1977 while serving as third vice president of the New York State Congress of Parents and Teachers. Among her many volunteer activities, Shannon has been a key student organizer of the Long Beach Relay for Life. She also received a grant from Cablevision Power to Learn and MSG Varsity Charity of Champions to support a program of fundraising activities that she put together to benefit Camp Anchor, a year-round not-for-profit camp for children and adults with disabilities. So far, with the help of fellow students and the grant money, she has raised over $4,000 for this worthy cause. Shannon, who is an accomplished Irish step dancer, also performs at area nursing homes to entertain residents. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5364 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT You are cordially invited to La Feria De Abril on Saturday, April 21, 2012 10am-12noon in the Lido School Cafeteria (Elementary Students Only). Admission is free - enjoy a dance show and workshop, and food tasting from local restaurants. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5308 Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Board of Education - Regular Meeting - May 8 - 7:30 PM Lido Elementary School Cafeteria. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that there will be a meeting of the Board of Education on Tuesday, May 8th, 2012, at 6:00 PM in the Teachers’ Cafeteria of the Long Beach Middle School, 239 Lido Boulevard, Lido Beach, New York 11561. It is anticipated that the Board will then vote to go into an executive session to discuss personnel issues regarding specific personnel and pending and proposed legal matters. At 6:45 PM, the Board of Education will attend a dedication ceremony at Veterans Stadium. The Board will reconvene for a regular meeting at 7:30 PM in the new cafeteria at Lido Elementary School, 237 Lido Boulevard, Lido Beach, New York. •The Agenda For May 8 Is Available For Review. •View Our Budget Presentations http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5275 Tue, 17 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Members of the Long Beach Middle School Math Olympiad club participated in the third annual Nassau County Math Olympiad, held at Kellenberg High School in Uniondale. The Long Beach team of (l to r) Jonathan Kapilian, Alexandra Kapilian, Alexandra Thursland, Mashiyat Ahmed and Samantha Melconian placed eighth overall out of 33 schools. They are pictured with Math Olympiad coach Tara Mele (right). The competition was sponsored by the Museum of Math and organized by St. Martin de Porres Marianist School. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5287 Mon, 16 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT From David Weiss, Superintendent The high school will reopen as scheduled Monday morning for classes. The building has been inspected and deemed safe to open. Over the vacation our contractors and staff worked to ensure the high school would be clean and safe for occupancy. We have removed all the exterior ceilings and soffits that could potentially be unsafe. This work has exposed some of the piping and wiring that had previously been under the ceiling system. This gives the school very rough look, however everything has been inspected and has been deemed safe. We've carefully cleaned and swept the driveway and parking area, and it is now free of debris. All parking spaces around and under the school are safe to use. We have also decided to reinforce the ceiling area inside the main entranceway. While this area has a different ceiling from the areas outside the school, we have decided not to take any chances and to remediate this area during the summer. In the meantime you will find scaffolding erected there to ensure safety. I apologize for any inconvenience this work caused over the vacation, and appreciate the cooperation and hard work of those who had to alter plans or who helped us get ready to open. I hoped you all enjoyed the break! David Weiss http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5217 Sat, 14 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Two teams of Long Beach elementary school students and one team of Long Beach Middle School students finished in first place in the Odyssey of the Mind (OM) Regional Competition, held at Rosemary Kennedy Center in Wantagh on March 10. Their first-place finishes qualified them for the OM State Finals held in Binghamton on the weekend of March 31. A third elementary team finished in second place at the regional competition. The first-place elementary team of Hannah Zelinger, Angelica Gonzales, Arjun Gupta, Jesse Thornton, Alexandra Melconian, Sabrina Eager and Sophia Valentin solved a problem called “Ooh-Motion Vehicle,” which required them to design, build and drive a vehicle that would travel a course where it encountered three unique situations, displaying different human emotions for each encounter. The first-place elementary team of Shira Mann, Madison Gusler, Aidan White, Jack Libasci, Elizabeth Kelly, Joan Sceppa and Julia Ashmead solved a problem entitled “To Be or Not to Be” in which they created a musical production wherein Hamlet is faced with a dilemma that teaches him that the easy way out is not always the correct choice. The first-place middle school team of Emily Burns, Paulina Cardona, Dane DePasquale, Kelly Gannon, Savannah Kile, Mallie Littman and Carly Siegel completed a problem called “Odyssey Angels,” which required the angels to travel through various places where they encountered negative situations and turn them into positives, helping individuals and saving communities along the way. The second-place elementary team of Charlotte Kile, Lauren Crotty, Victoria Strickland, Jessica Greer, Shea McMahon, Sophie Stella and Talia Fernandez also solved the “Odyssey Angels” problem. The three elementary teams prepared for the competition as part of the Long Beach School District’s Learning Activities for Raising Creativity (LARC) program, under the direction of LARC teachers Beverlee Bertinetti and Caitlin Fuentes. The winning teams were made up of students from East, West, Lido and Lindell Elementary Schools, as well as Long Beach Catholic Regional School. The middle school team, which consisted of sixth and seventh graders, prepared for the competition through the school’s OM Club, under the direction of faculty coach Lorraine Radice. Many of the middle school winners had qualified to compete at both the State and World Finals in past years. For more than 25 years, the district has had at least one team qualify for the State Finals. Last year, a grand total of four teams qualified for the State Finals, with two going on to compete at the World Finals for the first time. Odyssey of the Mind is an international educational program that provides students with opportunities to apply their creativity to solve problems that range from building mechanical devices to presenting their own interpretation of literary classics. Thousands of teams from throughout the U.S. and approximately 25 countries abroad participate in the program. The Long Beach students who participate in OM say that it teaches them to think outside of the box, be creative, practice teamwork, overcome fears and get along with others. They say they must also be committed to working countless hours, brainstorming, writing and practicing their scripts, and creating props and costumes to prepare for competition. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5237 Thu, 12 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that there will be a special meeting of the Board of Education on Thursday, April 12th, 2012, at 6:00 PM in the Conference Room of the Administration Building, 235 Lido Boulevard, Lido Beach, New York 11561 to address the emergency high school ceiling resolution. View Emergency Resolution It is anticipated that the Board will then vote to go into an executive session to discuss personnel issues regarding specific personnel and pending and proposed legal matters. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5173 Wed, 11 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach High School Chapter of the Tri-M Music Honor Society recently inducted 14 new members in a well-attended ceremony held at the high school. “Music brings us all together. It is the world’s universal language,” said Tri-M faculty advisor Marino Bragino III. The ceremony, conducted by Long Beach chapter president Annie Winerip, welcomed Rachel Barkan, Ilana Blumenthal, Christina Chase, Kyle Curley, Victoria Epstein, Jessica Fernandez, Whitney Flaum, Adam Goldenberg, Halle Henry, Jonathan Kappel, Taylor Martinelli, Maegan Miciotta, Michaela Rynecki and Matthew Walsh into the fold of this international honor society which recognizes students for their academic and musical prowess. Long Beach High School Principal Dr. Gaurav Passi and chorus teacher Michael Capobianco were bestowed with Tri-M Honorary Lifetime Memberships. Former Long Beach student Michael Oquendo, who pursued music education at SUNY Potsdam, was recognized with an Alumni Achievement Award. The ceremony also included several musical performances by Tri-M members. The main goal of Tri-M is to inspire students to excel at music, leadership and service. Members act as goodwill ambassadors, performing at local nursing homes, school events and community functions. They also assist younger students in preparation for their NYSSMA solo evaluation performances. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5214 Sun, 08 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students and staff at Long Beach Middle School raised over $2,800 at the annual Joseph Farrell Memorial Student/Teacher Basketball Game. The sales of tickets, T-shirts, pizza and snacks were directed to a scholarship established to honor the memory of the beloved Long Beach teacher and community member Joseph Farrell, who passed away suddenly on July 5, 2007. Farrell’s daughter, Carrie-Anne Duffy, was on hand, accompanied by members of her extended family. In a fast-moving competition, the eighth-grade boys and girls basketball teams faced off against the middle school faculty and staff. Between quarters, spectators were invited down to the court for Zumba dancing. Mr. Farrell was a lifelong Long Beach resident who taught for 13 years in the Long Beach School District, first as an elementary teacher at Lido School and later as a sixth-grade social studies teacher at the middle school. As a teenager, Farrell worked as a Long Beach lifeguard, and at 20, he began coaching at the Long Beach Recreation Center, where he met his wife of 23 years, fellow coach Gail Henry. In 2004, he began coaching the girls swim team at Jericho High School, where he turned the last-place conference team into conference champion and was named Jericho Coach of the Year. “This event, which was held for a great cause, marks the beginning of spring here at the middle school. Joe would have liked that,” said Vice Principal Keith Biesma. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5216 Sun, 08 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT When Christian Musto entered the eighth grade at Lincoln Orens Middle School in Island Park, he and his fellow classmates had to start thinking about whether they would like to attend Long Beach High School or West Hempstead High School the following year. The Island Park School District does not have a high school, so after grade eight, students and their families must choose to continue their education in either Long Beach or West Hempstead School District. Although the choice may not have been so clear for his fellow classmates, Christian, who is passionate about acting, knew he wanted to attend Long Beach High School as soon as he learned that the school offers a well-rounded acting program, included an elective course called “Studio in Theater Arts.” “I’ve been acting since I was eight,” said Christian. “When I landed my first lead role as John in Peter Pan, I knew I was hooked. When I get older, I want to be a professional actor, so it was important to me to be able to develop my acting skills in high school.” When Christian came to Long Beach High School as a freshman, he signed up for “Studio in Theater Arts” as his arts elective. He also tried out for the high school musical, where he landed a lead role as Hero in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. “When Christian came to auditions, he brought his resume with him—it listed dozens of camp productions, middle school theater productions, and his work with the Island Park Theater Guild,” recalled theater teacher and musical director Vanessa Krywe. “He fit the part of young Hero perfectly, and he also sang the part well. He had a real presence on the stage.” “I always try as hard as I can,” said Christian of his audition. “I was still amazed to get the part as a freshman.” Being in the play not only helped Christian gain more vital theater experience; it also helped him acclimate to a new school in a new town. “It was great being in the play and taking acting courses—it’s like having a bunch of family members away from home. My best friend from Island Park was also in the play—that made it even more fun for both of us.” “I didn’t know anyone when I got here, but from day one I made so many friends,” said Christian of his first days at Long Beach High School. As he passes the halfway point in his freshman year, Christian is very pleased with the choice he has made to come to Long Beach High School. “The kids are friendly, all my classes are great, and I have a lot of cool teachers.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5185 Wed, 04 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT More than 1,000 Long Island students and parents came out to enjoy Sandy Cohen Family Math Day, hosted this year by Long Beach Public Schools. This annual event is sponsored by the Nassau County Math Teachers Association and the Nassau County Association of Math Supervisors. It all started in 1989 with Sandy Cohen’s vision of creating an event to bring Long Islanders together to partake in family fun with mathematics. This year 450 families turned out for a day of lively workshops held at Long Beach High School, led by 80 guest speakers and assisted by 100 volunteers. Families of students in grades K-6 participated in hands-on activities to enhance the mathematical knowledge of both children and their parents. Workshops with titles such as “Sweet Geometry,” “Gotta Minute,” “Yummy Math” and “Pyramath” kept families engaged with new and exciting approaches to mathematical problem solving. With a host of contests and door prizes, everyone received at least one souvenir to remind them of their day’s adventures. “As a member of both of the sponsoring organizations, I expressed interest in hosting this event in Long Beach to give families in our community the opportunity to experience firsthand the joys of Family Math Day,” said District Director of Mathematics Cheriese Pemberton. “I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to the many presenters and volunteers who worked so hard to make this event such a success.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5187 Wed, 04 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Yasmine Resnick (grade 10), Nerio Rodriguez (grade 11) and Michael Heiss (grade 10) finished in the top three of all the Long Beach High School students who competed in the American Mathematics Competition 12 (AMC). Their scores gained them recognition by the AMC as having exceptional mathematics talent. Long Beach High School administered the AMC in February 2012 to all students who were interested in rising to the challenge. According to the competition’s official website, AMC is dedicated to the goal of strengthening the mathematical capabilities of our nation's youth by challenging them to problem solve mathematical concepts beyond the scope and sequence of their grade level, and by identifying, recognizing and rewarding excellence in mathematics. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5148 Sun, 01 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School junior Russell Goetz was chosen this year to perform with the All-State Vocal Jazz Ensemble. Russell recently had the honor of singing with his fellow All-State jazz vocalists at the State Capital on the week of March 5. The 24 young musicians had the distinction of presenting a command performance in the Empire State Plaza in front of numerous music educators, assemblymen and senators. Russell was one of five ensemble members chosen to perform a solo piece at the event. After the concert, Senator Dean Skelos and Assemblyman Harvey Weisenberg both stopped to introduce themselves and congratulate him on his exceptional performance. Russell is the first Long Beach High School student to earn the distinction of being chosen for the All-State Vocal Jazz Ensemble. He also received the double honor of being selected to perform in the All-State Chorus this year. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5130 Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT A "Friends of the Arts" committee has been formed to promote the advancement of the arts in Long Beach Public Schools and the surrounding community. The goals of the organization are to further enhance and enrich the cultural life of students by promoting student arts and cultural events, recognizing student achievements and providing better communication between the district and the community at large. The organization hopes to create new ways to recognize, appreciate and support students’ practice and enjoyment of the arts through special events and fundraising activities. The committee recently held an organizational meeting to elect officers. Superintendent of Schools David Weiss was the guest speaker. “I appreciate everyone’s support of our students,” he told the group. “You will play an important role in celebrating the successes of our students and solidifying community support for the arts.” The committee has already been active selling T-shirts and refreshments at the recent high school musical production. Other fundraisers are planned for the spring concert season. The goal of this year’s fundraisers will be to raise money for scholarships and awards to be presented at the high school Senior Award Night. “We believe that all children possess talents and gifts that if left untapped will create a void in our society,” said Friends of the Arts Administrative Liaison Dr. Dale Johanson. “It is our hope that the world will become a better place through the cultural enrichment of our children who will someday give their talents to the world.” The committee welcomes parents, community members, musicians and concerned citizens to join them in this worthy cause. For more information, contact President Bari Klirsfeld at 516- 815-7178 or baripres@aol.com. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5131 Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach Public Schools Jazz Night will be held on May 1 at 7:30 PM in the High School auditorium. The musical talents of the Middle School Jazz Band, the High School Lab Jazz Band, the High School Jazz Ensemble and the High School Select Choir will be highlighted in this upcoming concert. Also featured will be the Divas Jazz Band, an all female professional jazz band who will hold workshops with the students and will perform on the high school stage. Please join us in celebrating jazz music at Long Beach High School. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5096 Tue, 27 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Fourth graders Sydney Hoffman, Erin Brown and James Joyce were crowned county winners in the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County’s (UCPN) annual Trivia Challenge. They were among three teams of students from the Long Beach Public Schools Learning Activities to Raise Creativity (LARC) program that participated in this academic competition, raising more than $1,500 to benefit the UCPN. Sydney and Erin are both from Lindell School. James attends Long Beach Regional Catholic School. The Trivia Challenge is an academic fundraising event that combines education, philanthropy and fun. To participate in the challenge, students were grouped in teams to take a 100-question written test, covering everything from academics to popular culture. They asked family and friends to sponsor them, pledging a certain amount for every question they answered correctly. The participants also took a class trip to the UCPN to meet with speech therapists, physical therapists and occupational therapists. They received a firsthand look at how technology is used to help improve the lives of people with cerebral palsy, and saw how the money they raised helps support the organization’s work. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5085 Mon, 26 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach School District has introduced a grade 3-5 pilot program called SPIRIT, which stands for Specialized Program Integrating Research, International Baccalaureate (IB) Principles and 21st Century Technology. Under the guidance of Learning Activities to Raise Creativity (LARC) teachers Beverlee Bertinetti and Caitlin Fuentes, students have been developing the foundations of critical research, team building and problem-solving skills. The first unit of study was entitled “International Mindedness and Research Skills.” Students learned about the IB Learner Profile, which focuses on developing international mindedness in young learners, encouraging them to be inquirers, well-balanced, thinkers, caring, reflective, knowledgeable, principled, open-minded risk takers and communicators. Students learned what a blog is, and how technology is introducing us to new communication tools. They created their own blogs using reflective IB principles. Through these blogs they have been sharing their ideas with students from England, Thailand, Bali and India. The second unit of study dealt with team building. Students worked together to take on challenges such as building tall structures that could stand erect without being blown down. The team building skills they learned were put to use in the third unit of study, in which students worked together to gather data for inquiry-based research projects. They learned how to do a website critique, evaluating whether a website is reliable when conducting research. They discussed plagiarism at length and learned how to cite their book and web sources using APA citation style--the rules and conventions established by the American Psychological Association for documenting sources used in a research paper. They are also creating published websites, “SlideRocket” presentations and “Vod-casts” to share their knowledge. The SPIRIT program launched at East School, which is the home base of the district’s LARC program for gifted and talented students. All East School students in grades 3-5 are participating in SPIRIT, representing another example of the district’s commitment to provide academic rigor for all students. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5020 Fri, 23 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Visit Our Opportunities Page Click here to go there. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=5030 Thu, 22 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Finance and Operations • Link to our Budget Information page for presentations, code summaries and election/voting materials. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4936 Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT In an interdisciplinary project that involved art, technology and mathematics, Long Beach Middle School sixth graders in Laura Swan’s art classes studied pop artist Jasper Johns’ use of numbers as “form not function,” in his famous work entitled “0 through 9.” The purpose of this project was to take a fresh look at numbers and other “symbols” that we use on a daily basis. Each student then applied his or her own interpretation of the theme to create an individual panel that used numbers in a non-representational way. The panels were combined to adorn a set of four three-foot letters that spell out LBMS. Students in Brian Press’s wood shop contributed to the project by creating the wooden templates for the letters. The display will adorn the entryway of the building as a permanent tribute to Pi Day. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4985 Tue, 20 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that there will be a meeting of the Budget Advisory Committee on Wednesday, March 21, 2012 in the large conference room of the Administration Building, 235 Lido Boulevard, Lido Beach, New York at 7 PM. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4956 Mon, 19 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT At the February 28 work session of the Long Beach Board of Education, administrators presented a three-pronged summary of the district’s Health, Nutrition and Wellness initiatives, focusing on programs that support the physical, social and emotional health and well-being of students. Chief Operating Officer Michael DeVito, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Vincent Butera and Director of Athletics, Physical Education and Health Arnold Epstein joined forces to present a detailed outline to the Board of the district’s work in these three areas of instruction and support. “Traditionally, health has been viewed as an absence of disease,” explained Mr. DeVito in his opening remarks. “Wellness goes beyond the traditional definition of health and is a lifestyle approach that implies personal responsibility. In order for our students to achieve a high level of health and wellness, we want them to engage in integrated learning experiences to enable them to make good choices.” The presentation outlined the district’s philosophy of educating the whole child, using a pyramid approach to health and wellness. Nutrition, exercise and hygiene programs support optimum physical health. To encourage sound emotional health, students are taught goal setting skills, stress management techniques and healthy tools to express emotions. The district’s social and emotional learning program promotes good social health. In a wellness assessment conducted in the 2010-2011 school year, Long Beach did well compared to other districts in the county with regard to school meal programs, health education, physical activity and before and after-school programs. Some areas the district intends to address and strengthen in the future include further defining health and wellness policies, making additional healthy food choices available in vending machines throughout the district, and addressing school employee wellness. “Our goal in K-12 instruction is to educate the whole child in order to prepare all of our students for a lifetime of healthy living, social and emotional growth and overall wellness,” said Superintendent David Weiss. For a copy of the presentation, visit www.lbeach.org. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4950 Sun, 18 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students at Lido School received a special visit from John Hinton, an LIU CW Post math professor, author of six books on mathematics, and publisher of Math Matters, a national journal of math games for elementary and middle school teachers. Professor Hinton engaged students in activities such as “Order in the House,” a math reasoning game in which students were asked to roll dice, add the numbers, and use their reasoning skills to try to place the sums in order from least to greatest after each roll. Student were also intrigued by a guessing game called “Join the Club,” in which they were invited into Professor Hinton’s club when they were able to surmise the number pattern and guess the next number in the sequence. The teachers, who have attended instructional workshops conducted by Professor Hinton, were also able to benefit from watching him model techniques he had taught them in his workshops. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4952 Sun, 18 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT There will be a meeting of the Health and Safety Committee on Thursday, March 22, 2012, at 4:00 PM in the conference room of the Administration Building, 235 Lido Boulevard, Lido Beach, New York. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4955 Sun, 18 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT A group of Long Beach High School students representing the Anime/Manga Art Forum recently received citations from the City of Long Beach in recognition of the work the club has done to increase cultural understanding through the arts. Now in its fourth year, the Anime/Manga Art Forum promotes cultural awareness of Asian cultures through the popular Japanese graphic stories and cartoons called Manga and anime. As part of the program, each year students publish their own limited-edition compilation of original graphic stories and Manga art, donating copies of the publication to the Long Beach Public Library for public use. The club, which is grant funded, was developed as an enrichment program in alternative literature. Students draw on technology, art, literature and social studies skills to create their Manga portfolios. The genre includes a broad range of subjects, including everything from action-adventure, romance and sports to historical drama, science fiction and fantasy. The club is open to English language learners and native English speakers and attracts students from a cross-section of different social groups, proving that art truly can provide a bridge for fostering cultural understanding. “One of the biggest unanticipated benefits of this club is that students have found an outlet to share their inner most talents in a secure non-judgmental setting,” said Vivian Fiallo, Director of World Languages and ELL Programs. “We are also pleased that first two editions of their work have been copyrighted, making our students published authors.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4943 Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT A group of ten sixth and seventh graders participated in the MATHCOUNTS chapter competition, held at Hofstra University on February 16. Natalie Swegler, Mashiyat Ahmed, Kelly Gannon, Jessica Marcote, Kelly DiResto, Mary-Elizabeth McCourt, Savannah Kile, Eric Ricci, Jennifer Arnaud and Samuel Miller were tested on their knowledge of algebra, geometry, probability and other advanced mathematical concepts in a fast-paced timed setting. Natalie, Mashiyat, Kelly and Jessica all received scores labeled “highly commendable.” Through the MATHCOUNTS program, which was introduced at Long Beach Middle School at the beginning of the 2011-2012 school year, sixth and seventh graders who excel in math are given the opportunity to explore mathematical concepts beyond their normal grade level. MATHCOUNTS is a national program that inspires excellence, confidence and curiosity in middle school students, providing them with the foundation for success in science, technology, engineering and mathematics careers. “I applaud our students for participating in this rigorous competition,” said Mathematics Director Cheriese Pemberton. “It was a great experience for them to challenge themselves with this advanced curriculum. Most importantly, students recognized their ability to grow mathematically and realized what they can achieve through hard work and perseverance.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4898 Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach High School Guidance Department helped juniors and their parents jump-start the college search and application process at Junior College Information Night. After an introduction by guidance director Patricia Hausfeld, attendees headed off to workshops conducted by representatives from Molloy College, New York University, Adelphi University, SUNY College at Old Westbury, Stony Brook University, Harvard Club of Long Island, Hofstra University and CUNY (which CUNY schools?). Topics included College for the Athlete, The Competitive College, College for the Learning Disabled Student, Financial Aid, SUNY and CUNY Admissions, The College Essay, and Financial Aid. “Tonight we want parents and students to gather information, begin to develop a plan, and understand the options available,” explained Ms. Hausfeld. In the weeks to come, juniors will begin meeting with their school counselors for individual planning conferences to discuss post-high school plans, graduation requirements, and the college application process. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4900 Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Competing in the most difficult Blue Division, a team of district third graders finished first in the nation among 520 teams in the second WordMasters Challenge meet of the school year, held in February. WordMasters is a national language arts competition entered by more than 220,000 students annually. The students participated in the competition through the district’s Learning Activities to Raise Creativity (LARC) program, under the direction of LARC teacher Beverlee Bertinetti. The winning team consisted of Uma Arengo, Maya Arengo, Sophia Chigounis, Elisa Richter, Delphine Esformes, Abbey Carpenter, Aadhi Murugaveri, Jude Pizzone, Francesca Macchia, Douglas Weiss and Tyler Collinson. “This was such an amazing accomplishment for third graders who are competing in the WordMasters Challenge this year for the first time,” said Ms. Bertinetti. Several Long Beach elementary students also won highest honors for individual achievement. Third graders Uma Arengo, Charles Ashmead, Sophia Chigounis, Delphine Esformes, Aadhi Murugaveri, Elias Richter and Jasmine Soriano and fifth graders Michael Corsale, Ryan Das, Talia Fernandez, Joan Sceppa and Hannah Zelinger all earned perfect scores in the meet. Nationwide, only 83 third graders and 224 fifth graders achieved perfect scores. The WordMasters Challenge is an exercise in critical thinking that encourages students to become familiar with a set of new words above their grade level, and then challenges them to use those words to complete analogies expressing various kinds of relationships—an exercise that helps students learn to think analytically and metaphorically. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4903 Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT To raise money and awareness for the annual substance-free PTSA Morning Madness After-Prom Party Long Beach High School seniors donned the latest in eveningwear and took to the stage for the Morning Madness Fashion Show. Morning Madness committee chairs Betsy Glazer, Rhonda Healy, Gina Knauer, Randi Andosca, Linda Birnbaum, Gina Knauer, Maria Martin, Ann Marie Scandole and Darlene Tangney saw to every detail, making sure that this would be an unforgettable night for the seniors and their families. Before the show, parents and friends enjoyed an Aussie-style feast, donated by Outback Steakhouse of Island Park, as the high school string ensemble provided musical entertainment. While the seniors were busy backstage completing their transformations from typical teenagers to glamorous runway models, committee chair Betsy Glazer expressed heartfelt thanks to the many local merchants and individuals who have donated money, services and raffle prizes throughout the year. “I would like to take this time to extend my thanks to Betsy Glazer and the entire Morning Madness Committee,” said Principal Dr. Gaurav Passi. “Prom night is known to be one of the most dangerous nights of the year for teenagers, but this is not the case in Long Beach. Each year the Long Beach PTSA takes this important step to make sure that our students have a fun and safe place to enjoy themselves after the prom.” Seniors Annie Winerip, Connor Sofield, Gavin Enright and Liz Gloeggler acted as masters of ceremonies for the evening, announcing each couple as they paraded down the runway in glittering gowns and tuxedos. More than 90 seniors took part in this gala event. Gowns and tuxedos were provided courtesy of Estelle’s of Farmingdale, The Bridal World of Baldwin, David’s Bridal and Snider’s Formal Wear. Teacher Maria Perrone once again choreographed the show, including the surprise finale in which all 90 students gathered on the stage together, providing a spectacular photo-op for family and friends. Morning Madness is an alcohol and drug-free all-night party that provides seniors with a fun, safe and absolutely free place to continue their celebration after the prom. The party, which is open to all seniors, features food, music and raffle prizes. The grand prizes, raffled off at the end of the evening, are a Netbook, a flat screen TV and a brand new car. Students must be present at the time of the raffle in order to be eligible to win these grand prizes – a powerful incentive to stay all night. Anyone interested in becoming a sponsor or making a donation to Morning Madness is invited to contact the LBHS PTSA at 516-897-2012. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4862 Sun, 11 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT West School art work will be featured during the month of March in the shop windows of Rose n Eye located at 893 W. Beech Street, Long Beach. Congratulations to Denise Collins and her West School students! http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4838 Thu, 08 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT A 100-Year Anniversary Committee is being formed to commemorate the founding of the Long Beach City School District, which became School District #28 and elected its first Board of Education members in 1913. If you would like to volunteer to serve on this committee, please contact the District Clerk at 516-897-2108. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4840 Thu, 08 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Senior Ambrose Plante has been named a Finalist in the 2012 National Merit Scholarship Program. Less than one percent of the more than 1.5 million students who entered the competition qualified as Finalists, based on their results in the National Merit Scholarship Corporation’s Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT). He is now eligible to compete for some 8,200 National Merit Scholarships to be awarded in May. Ambrose is a member of the National Honor Society, the Foreign Language Honor Society and the Tri-M Music Honor Society. He was recently named a National AP Scholar for his exceptional performance on Advanced Placement exams. He is an All-County vocalist, has competed in the NYSSMA solo evaluations in classical guitar, and is a member of the Chess Club. A varsity tennis and hockey player, Ambrose was a member of the 2010-2011 State Championship hockey team. He also works as a skate guard and hockey instructor at the Long Beach Ice Arena. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4841 Thu, 08 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT The district recently hosted its annual Realtors Breakfast, meeting with area realtors to discuss the four major thrusts of district policy for the year: maintaining high levels of engagement for students and parents; ensuring that students are college and career-ready; providing opportunities for all students; and providing state- of-the-art facilities. Superintendent David Weiss described the programs that the district is proud to offer, such as the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, and other college-level courses at the high school, as well as curriculum changes at the middle school and elementary level to enrich the rigor of instruction at all levels. “One of our goals is to have our students take the most rigorous courses they can handle,” explained Mr. Weiss. “We encourage everyone to take at least one college-level course before they graduate. As a result, we have seen a dramatic increase in the number of students taking advanced courses and a rise in our graduation rates. Our philosophy is to offer opportunities to raise the bar for all while supplying support programs to foster success.” Mr. Weiss went on to outline other programs the district is proud of, including a diverse inclusive athletic program that offers 1000 spots on high school team rosters and 680 spots at the middle school level. At the elementary level, students receive swimming, skating and health education instruction. In the arts, the district was named a 2011 Best Community for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation, and has produced four All-State and 53 All-County musicians in the 2011-12 school year alone. The high school literary magazine, Fragments, has won over 100 state and national awards over the last three years. Students in the science research program have also produced dozens of prize-winning projects at the regional, state, national and international levels. Students in the middle school Activities Promoting Thinking (APT) and elementary Learning Activities to Raise Creativity (LARC) programs have achieved state and national recognition in the Odyssey of the Mind and WordMaster competitions. Mr. Weiss invited Chief Operating Officer Michael DeVito to outline the district’s progress on the $98.8 million School Preservation Plan, including the installation of a new turf field at the middle school and a state-of-the-art filtration system at the high school pool. Work is underway on additions at the Lido Complex and the high school. Mr. DeVito noted that the district, which employs a fleet of 32 compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, is proud to operate the greenest bus fleet in the state. Also present at the meeting was Island Park School Superintendent Dr. Rosemarie Bovino. She noted that the Long Beach and Island Park districts have enjoyed a longstanding cooperative agreement of cost-saving shared services. Through another cooperative agreement launched in 2009, Island Park residents may elect to send their children to Long Beach High School. A total of 96 Island Park students currently attend Long Beach High School, with another 34 Island Park freshmen scheduled to join their ranks in the 2012-2013 school year. After addressing realtors’ questions and concerns, Mr. Weiss reminded them that his door is always open to them, as well as to potential homebuyers who have questions about Long Beach Public Schools. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4796 Mon, 05 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations Hockey Team NYS AAU Champions http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4763 Sun, 04 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT A group of Long Beach High School students recently met with the City of Long Beach Environmental Advisory Board to discuss a series of proposals. Seniors Jane Smyth and Arianne Papa presented their recommendations for a natural and cost-effective method of water remediation in Reynolds Channel. Another group of students proposed creating signage for the boardwalk that describes migrating birds, local fish and other natural items of interest. Papa and Smyth, who have conducted chemical testing on the waters just east of the sewage plant that drains into Reynolds Channel, found that there were higher-than-expected levels of chlorine nearest to the point of water discharge. Chlorine is a substance used in sewage treatment to destroy harmful bacteria. While the levels found in the water were within regulated and accepted baseline standards, the two found that there was a dearth of aquatic life in the immediate path of the effluent. There is currently no de-chlorinating process in place to treat discharge from the plant. The pair, which has been conducting award-winning research to test the use of Atlantic ribbed mussels as biofilters, discovered that the mussels digested chlorine at an exceptional rate, and not only survived but thrived in random samples of the discharged water. The girls proposed building a wooden structure in the water near the sewage plant that could be populated with mussels to act as a natural bio-filter for chlorine and other chemicals. These mussels, which are indigenous to Reynolds Channel, would have no impact on the natural ecosystem. The second group of students presented two proposals for projects at the boardwalk. The first was for a mural at the boardwalk wall at the foot of Washington Boulevard that would depict an underwater seascape representing indigenous species. The second proposal was to create a series of permanent environmental signs to educate visitors about the geography and ecology of the barrier island. The signs would feature information about native and migratory birds and other organisms that make their home on the beach and ocean surrounding the barrier island. The Long Beach Environmental Advisory Board, which was formed in August 2009, is comprised of seven members appointed by the city manager. The goals of the board are to advise, assist and make recommendations to the city manager and the city council in developing local programs to protect, restore and enhance the environment. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4749 Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT When the Long Beach Medical Center’s Breast Health Alliance sent out a call to join a community fundraising campaign to raise funds to purchase the hospital’s first digital mammography machine, Long Beach students and teachers rolled up their sleeves and went into action, raising over $1,084 for the worthy cause. The hospital recently hosted a reception to thank students and staff for their efforts. The Long Beach High School African-American Club, under the direction of Edwina Bryant, held a raffle that netted $600 for this cause. The Forensics Club, under the leadership of Gary Ribis, whipped up batches of homemade brownies, which they sold during Parent Teacher Night to net an additional $250 for the campaign. Teachers in the Long Beach Middle School Sunshine Club joined forces to donate another $234, bringing the total contribution from the district’s students and teachers over the $1,000 mark. To help the hospital keep track of its fundraising efforts, students in the Long Beach High School wood tech class, working under the supervision of Eric Heck and Jim Johnson, built a fundraising barometer board, complete with a pink breast cancer awareness ribbon. In a feat of engineering wonder, the students designed the board with cutouts for the ribbon and barometer, which can be filled to higher and higher levels as each new fundraising plateau is reached. “It is so great to see students engaged in the community and helping others,” said Long Beach Medical Center CEO Douglas Melzer. “I’m very proud of you for your involvement and support of this important effort to bring digital mammography into the community.” The Breast Health Alliance was established to enhance and raise awareness about breast health services available to residents of Long Beach and the surrounding communities. The Alliance has focused on several initiatives, including patient-centered care for breast patients at Long Beach Medical Center, establishing a support group for women with breast health concerns, hosting education and awareness programs in the community, promoting the services of the Long Beach Breast Cancer Coalition, and raising funds for the purchase of a digital mammography unit. To date, the campaign has raised $33,000 toward its $200,000 fundraising goal. The Breast Health Alliance will be hosting its next digital mammography campaign event, an art auction, on March 23, 2012 at St. Mary of the Isle Church. For ticket information, to make a donation or to join the Breast Health Alliance, please call LBMC’s Public Affairs Department at 897-1097. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4750 Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations: Dylan Palacio New York State Wrestling Champion and All-State Wrestlers Krishna Sewkumar and Mark Raghunandan http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4701 Sun, 26 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Did you ever wonder how mammals keep warm, what acid pollution does to mollusk shells, or whether it is possible to change the properties of a solid? The answers to these and many other questions could be found at East School’s Science and Technology Fair. All students in grades 3-5 completed a scientific research project, which they presented to parents and fellow students at the fair. Students worked in groups to research their topics and to develop and test their hypotheses using the scientific method. After determining a question, hypothesis, materials, procedure and conclusion, they compiled the results of their experiments on presentation boards. This exercise was created to expose students to the research, scientific method and oral presentation skills they will need when they move on to middle school. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4655 Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT This Saturday, February 25th our Long Beach High School athletes will compete in the New York State Wrestling Championships at the Pepsi Center in Albany, NY. The event takes place on Friday, February 24 and Saturday, February 25 with the latter day hosting the finals. MSG Varsitywill have reporters there for the entire event and will be LIVECASTING the Division I Finals on Saturday beginning at 6:00 PM on msgvarsity.com. Support our wrestlers even if you can't make the trip. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4650 Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT In an annual tradition, West School students and parents donned their pajamas, grabbed their favorite stuffed animals and headed back to school for an evening of shared reading fun and learning at the K-2 Bedtime and Books celebration. While students snuggled into cozy reading circles with their parents, teachers read stories to the group, all the while demonstrating the reading strategies that parents can use at home to make shared reading time fun while promoting literacy skills. Parents also received handouts full of reading strategies geared to each grade level. Among the tips, parents were encouraged to help kindergartners by using picture clues and echo reading, ask first graders to make connections and predictions, and help second graders develop questions and visualize what is happening as they read. This year, the school combined literacy with community service by asking each family to bring in a book to donate to Ronald McDonald House Charities. “Bedtime and Books has become a very popular West School family tradition,” said Principal Sandra Schneider. “It’s a fun evening of family reading that also gives us a great opportunity to connect with parents, to give them some creative tools they can use to help their children practice these important reading strategies at home.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4635 Tue, 21 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Move over, Malverne Mel! Students in the Long Beach Public Schools’ Spanish Is Fun Club celebrated “La Verbena de la Sardina” at a Saturday morning ceremony at Lido School. This traditional Spanish celebration of spring, which means “festival of the sardine,” takes place on the last day of Carnival. It is often referred to as the Groundhog Day of Spain. The students and their families invited representatives of the Long Beach City Council, the Long Beach Latino Civic Association and the Long Beach Board of Education to take part in the festivities. City Council Vice President Leonard Torres, who is the city’s first Hispanic councilman, officiated over the opening ceremony. Wearing Carnival masks, the students marched around carrying tissue paper lanterns representing wind, fire, water, earth, sun and moon. At the conclusion of the parade, the students and their guests were invited to decorate the tree with colorful paper flowers to welcome the coming of spring. “Thanks to our cultural consultant, RosaMaria Goeller, for bringing this celebration to life in such a colorful and meaningful way,” said Director of World Languages and ELL Programs Vivian Fiallo. The Spanish Is Fun Club is a districtwide program that provides a creative environment to help students in grades K-5 learn more about the culture, language, music, customs and traditions of the Spanish-speaking world. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4636 Tue, 21 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education hosted a discussion of a draft version of the district’s new Facilities Use Policy at its January 24 work session. This marked the final stages of a policy review process that began several months ago to address concerns within the community regarding appropriate use of facilities. The district began the process by inviting community residents to participate in small group discussions to gather their input. A Facilities Use Committee was formed to evaluate the current policy. The Board of Education then held two special forums in November and December at the Long Beach Public Library to engage the community in discussions about the appropriate use of facilities. The Board compiled the revised draft of the district’s Facilities Use Policy based on the results of these discussions, determining guidelines that would open facilities for appropriate use by community groups engaging in educational, civic, cultural, athletic and recreational activities, while being respectful of the concerns of neighbors surrounding school facilities. The final draft of the policy will be presented for two subsequent readings before the trustees vote on adoption. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4588 Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Middle School auditorium was buzzing with excitement as a select group of sixth and seventh graders prepared to take part in the school’s first MATHCOUNTS Competition. Students, who participated in three grueling rounds of team competition, were tested on their knowledge of algebra, geometry, probability and other advanced mathematical concepts in a fast-paced timed setting. Two teams earned perfect scores in round one. Those winners were sixth graders Sarah DeFlorio. Irving Oliva, Liam Thornton, Claire Ezratty, Emma Levin, Jack Cruse-Mulhall, Tamiyah Massey and George Ventura. The sixth-grade team of Marina Meyer, Blaise Derenze, Ava DeBruin and Luke Toomey reigned victorious in round two. Round three saw another tie with two seventh-grade teams claiming victory. The round three winners were Justin Simms, Mary Sabedra, Erica Russell, Kelly DiResto, Finian Ashmead, Eric Ricci, Justin Kolodny, Gregg Wildstein, Jennifer Arnaud, Noelani Tomicick and Natalie Swegler. With the first official district competition under their belts, students were better prepared for the chapter competitions in February, followed by the possibility of state and national competitions in March and May. Through the MATHCOUNTS program, which was introduced at the beginning of the 2011-2012 school year, sixth and seventh graders who excel in math are given the opportunity to explore mathematical concepts beyond their normal grade level. MATHCOUNTS is a national program that inspires excellence, confidence and curiosity in middle school students, providing them with the foundation for success in science, technology, engineering and mathematics careers. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4589 Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Next BOE Regular Meeting/Budget Presentation is Tues, Mar. 13 @ 7:30pm Public Library The Agenda From The February 28th Meeting Is Still Available For Review http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4538 Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations To Our Long Beach High School Hockey Team On Winning County Championship http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4587 Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT From the moment that Pseudolus, played by Russell Goetz, sang the first melodious strains of “A Comedy Tonight,” the audience knew they would be in for a raucous ride into ancient Rome as the Long Beach High School Theater Department presented Steven Sondheim’s A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. He was joined by a fine ensemble cast of performers, whose comedic timing was matched only by their melodic vocals and graceful dancing. Doing a commendable job in the role Zero Mostel immortalized on the silver screen, Goetz skillfully finagled a hilarious series of misadventures as he played matchmaker for his young master Hero (Christian Musto) and the beautiful virgin courtesan Philia (Alexandra Brodsy) in exchange for his much dreamed-of freedom from slavery. In the process, he had to outsmart Hero's parents, Senex and Domina, the slave master Lycus and the feared Roman soldier Miles Gloriosus, who has already purchased Philia for his own. Musto and Brodsy emoted a charming chemistry as they embodied the youthful enthusiasm of everyone’s first love. Although Musto made his Long Beach High School acting debut in this role, it was apparent that he was no stranger to the stage. In the role of Philia, Brodsy was given a perfect opportunity to show off her exceptional vocal talent. Senior Adam Goldenberg pulled out all the stops in his final performance on the Long Beach High School stage as the loyal house slave Hysterium, who had been charged with keeping Hero out of trouble while his parents were away. But alas, things could not have gone more wrong for the high-strung Hysterium. As the comedy of errors unfolded, he found himself hiding courtesans in his master Senex’s home, arranging for secret trysts, and ultimately appearing in drag, masquerading as Philia to carry out Pseudolus’s ridiculous scheme. Joseph Keiserman brought the perfect blend of arrogance and grandeur to his portrayal of the pompous Gloriosus, belting out a booming baritone rendition of “Bring Me My Bride.” Gavin Enright, who has already made a reputation for himself as a comedic actor playing an assortment of rapscallions and charlatans over the years, did not disappoint in the role of Lycus, purveyor of fine women. He was surrounded by his beautiful harem of dancing courtesans, played by Chandler McMillan, Victoria Lombardi, Jhoselyn Alcivar, Ellen Blas, Katie Murphy and Kayla McAvoy. Vincent Pasqua and Annie Gloeggler gave well-matched comedic and vocal performances as the less-than-happily married Senex and Domina. Carlos Mejia did a convincing job as the blind and befuddled old man Erronius, circling the hills of Rome in search of his long-lost children. In the end, the cast, who was supported by a fine chorus of courtesans, proteans and soldiers, did not disappoint in their promise to deliver “A Comedy Tonight.” The show was directed by Long Beach’s own master of comedic timing, Vanessa Krywe, with Joseph Keiserman taking on the role of student director. Marino Bragino III proudly directed the pit orchestra and Michael Capobianco made his debut as musical director. Marcus Quiroga once again dazzled with his creative choreography, and Eric Krywe was the stage manager. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4551 Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Once again, Long Beach High School’s literary magazine, Fragments, earned top honors in competitions sponsored by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and the Empire State Scholastic Press Association (ESSPA). In the NCTE Program to Recognize Excellence in Literary Magazines, the Fragments staff received the “Superior” designation for Highest Award ranking. Fragments was among only eight New York high school literary magazines to receive this ranking. Of the 391 entries nationwide, only 96 qualified for this designation. At the state level, Fragments was honored with the Gold All-New York Award at the ESSPA annual competition. Students also earned a total of 32 individual awards including eight gold, ten silver, seven bronze and seven honorable mentions. Long Beach students dominated in the poetry category, racking up 11 out of 16 total awards. They made an equally strong showing in specialized content, winning six of the eight awards in that category. Individual gold awards went to: Sophie Corwin for artwork/illustration; Emily Charleson, Eileen Kelly, Jane Smyth and Roxette Romanes for layout; Sophie Corwin (two awards) and Jane Smyth for poetry; Alana Costello for non-fiction; and Giovanna Raffa and Emily Charleson for specialized content. Individual silver awards were earned by: Kirsten Donovan for artwork/illustration; Sophie Corwin and Alexis Romano for fiction; Hillary Vinokur for photography; Grace Smith (two awards) and Benjamin Weiss for poetry; and Kirsten Donovan (two awards) and Blaine Garde for specialized content. Six students earned individual bronze awards: Blaine Garde for artwork/illustration; Joseph Sweeny for fiction; Scott Blumenfeld and Emily Charleson for photography; Jane Smyth and Sophie Corwin for poetry; and Emily Charleson for specialized content. Honorable mention was given to: Marlena Howard and Eileen Kelly for artwork/illustration; Eileen Kelly, Emily Charleson and Jane Smyth for cover design; Kirsten Donovan for photography; and Sarah Ben-Moussa, Eileen Kelly and Grace Smith for poetry. Over the years, Fragments writers, editors and artists have consistently won top awards at national and state competitions for their work. Students edit and write for Fragments as part of the high school’s Talented Writers program, taught by Rachell Koegel. Submissions are also accepted from students in a number of other writing and art classes offered at the high school. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4513 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT During Grade 5 Orientation Month at Long Beach Middle School, fifth graders from all four elementary schools were invited to visit the middle school to get a feel for what life will be like for them when they become middle school students next year. In a newly revised orientation program, each class of fifth graders visited on a separate day, giving the students a chance to experience a day in the life of a middle school student. Each visitor was paired with a sixth-grade buddy who was a graduate of the same elementary school. During their two-hour visit, the younger students went on a building tour and attended classes with their buddies. During their shared lunch period, the buddies went together to a question-and-answer session that provided a comfortable, intimate setting for the fifth graders to ask questions and for the sixth graders to share useful advice about academics, clubs, extra help, sports and special activities such as the annual Grade 6 trip to Frost Valley. While students were attending classes, each teacher was able to visit at length with the middle school guidance staff to discuss appropriate placements for his or her students. “In the past, all the fifth-grade classes from each school had their orientation visit on the same day,” said Principal Dr. Michele Natali. “This smaller scale buddy format, with one class visiting at a time, gives the students a better chance to get a more genuine feel for what middle school will be like next year.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4514 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Board of Education held a special ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the completion of renovation work on the high school pool. A new environmentally friendly, state-of-the-art filtration system was installed this summer, and the renovation was recently completed with the installation of new diving platforms and tile restoration. Board Vice President Roy Lester and Trustee Patrick Gallagher, who were both varsity swimmers during their days at Long Beach High School, presided over the ceremony. Also in attendance were Board President Dr. Dennis Ryan, trustees Darlene Tangney and Gina Guma, Superintendent of Schools David Weiss, Chief Operating Officer Michael DeVito, Director of Athletics, Physical Education and Health Arnold Epstein and Principal Gaurav Passi. Coaches John Skudin and Woody Davis and members of the boys and girls varsity swim teams joined them for the ceremony, which took place at the start of the January 27 boys meet against Jericho. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4472 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT To celebrate the PTA Parents as Reading Partners (PARP) program at West School, Principal Sandra Schneider challenged the student body to read 100,000 minutes over a period of four weeks. The students had their eyes on the prize and their heads in their books as they recorded 140,406 minutes of reading for this year’s Principal’s Challenge, dubbed “Reading Rocks Across the USA.” A large map was placed in the hallway representing Ms. Schneider’s trip across the United States. As the students logged more minutes of reading, they fueled her trip, stopping at such “rocking” places as: Pebble Beach, California; the Rocky Mountains; Little Rock, Arkansas; Stone Mountain, Georgia; and Rockaway Beach, N.Y. before arriving at the rocky jetties of Long Beach. To reward them for meeting and exceeding the Principal’s Challenge, staff members dressed as various rock-themed characters. Ms. Schneider donned a red wig in homage to the cartoon character Wilma Flintstone. Teacher-in-charge Donna Fee made an appearance as the planet Earth, also known as “The Third Rock from the Sun.” Other teachers dressed as Pebbles Flintstone, Red from the children’s show Fraggle Rock, a server from the Hard Rock Café, and a group of ’60s rock-and-roll singers. The Principal’s Challenge is a West School tradition dating back over a decade. For the first Principal’s Challenge, Ms. Schneider promised the children that if they read 50,000 minutes, she would dress like a chicken. Over the years, the challenge grew to its current standing at 100,000 minutes. With each additional 2,000 minutes the students read, another staff member dresses up. In past years they have played movie stars, superheroes, Wizard of Oz characters and classic book characters. “The children love it when we dress up to celebrate their reading accomplishments,” said Mrs. Schneider. “Our goal is to encourage them to read daily. Reading is an excellent way to get where you want to go in life. It is no secret that reading increases your vocabulary, expands your knowledge, improves spelling and even relieves stress. That is why programs like PARP and our Principal’s Challenge are so critical to helping our students progress on their journey to become lifelong readers.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4424 Sun, 05 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that there is one remaining meeting of the Budget Advisory Committee in the month of February. That date is: February 29, 2012 andwill be held in the large conference room of the Administration Building, 235 Lido Boulevard, Lido Beach, New York at 7 PM. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that there will be two meetings of the Budget Advisory Committee in the month of March. The first meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 7, 2012, in the small cafeteria at the Long Beach Middle School, 239 Lido Boulevard, Lido Beach, New York. The second meeting with be held on Monday, March 12, 2012, in the conference room in the Administration Building, 235 Lido Boulevard, Lido Beach, New York, Carole Butler, District Clerk Dennis Ryan, Ph.D., Board President http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4419 Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Complete Your FAFSA Workshop: March 8, 6 pm @ ALC The Long Beach High School Guidance Department is hosting a free workshop entitled “Complete Your FAFSA” on March 8, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Adult Learning Center, 75 East Walnut Street, Long Beach. Any resident of the Long Beach School District who needs assistance with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form is invited to attend. Students going to college in the fall of 2012 should start applying for financial aid now. Please bring your FAFSA PIN, 2011 (or 2010) federal tax return, Social Security number, driver’s license, 2011 W-2 forms or year-end pay stubs, 2011 untaxed income records, current bank statements, 2011 business and investment records, and alien registration card (if you are not a U.S. citizen). For more information, contact the Long Beach High School Guidance Department at 516-897-2019. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4421 Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT The lessons they had learned in their science classes took on a new level of real-world relevance for Long Beach High School students when they met with Dr. James Browne, an environmental conservationist for the Town of Hempstead. He spoke to them about his studies of coastline changes and water quality in local waters. Dr. Browne detailed his work in the town’s program to restore shellfish reefs in areas such as the shallow waters west of Island Park. “Shellfish are a keystone species,” he explained. “They are natural engineers. Other species depend on them. They clarify the water and provide food for animals such as water fowl.” He then went on to explain other aspects of his work, such as collecting tide data and charting the changes in the marshland area in the South Shore Estuary Reserve. Using aerial photography, he and his team have been studying changes in the marsh islands, channels and inlets over time. One of the long-term trends he has observed is a rise in sea levels. “These studies are especially vital to coastline communities such as ours because the depth of water can have an effect on waves. The marsh shallows play an important role in absorbing wave energy and limiting wave size during storms.” The group, which included students in introductory, International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement biology and environmental science courses, along with students from the Long Beach Science Research program, listened intently as Dr. Browne passed around photos, charts and maps detailing his work. They asked him questions about the process he and his team are using to grow shellfish reefs and discussed information they had read about the effects of the effluent produced by the Bay Park Treatment plant on local waters. After the presentation, students stayed behind to discuss some of their own environmental experiments with Dr. Browne. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4409 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT 2012-2013 PRE-K AND KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION Lindell School Gymnasium Thursday, April 26, 2012: 8:00-10:30 AM, 1:00-3:00 PM, 6:00-8:00 PM Friday, April 27, 2012: 8:00-10:30 AM, 1:00-3:00 PM http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4420 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Way to Go: Arianne Papa, Long Beach H.S. Published: January 30, 2012 3:35 PM ByMichael R. Ebert Arianne Papa is working to improve her community's local water quality -- one pharmaceutical at a time. The Long Beach High School senior coordinated a drug collection in which residents brought in unwanted or expired medication for proper disposal during the school's winter concerts in December. Papa said the idea stemmed from a science research project she did with classmate Jane Smyth... Continue On Newsday.com(subscription to Newsday or Optonline required) http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4397 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4373 Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4374 Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Art Supervisors Association 8thAnnual Nassau All-County Art Exhibition Sunday, March 18, 2012 12:00 – 4:00PM See Our List Of Participants Ruth S. Harley University Center Adelphi University Garden City, NY The Art Supervisors Association of Nassau County is proud to welcome students, parents, art educators, administrators, and community members to attend the 2012 Nassau All-County Art Exhibition, which will take place at the Ruth S. Harley Center at Adelphi University on Sunday, March 18, 2012 from 12:00 – 4:00 pm. This exhibition, with no admission charge, will honor more than 1100 Kindergarten through twelfth grade students who have demonstrated excellence in a wide variety of two-dimensional visual art forms including drawing, painting, printmaking, computer graphics, and photography. Student entries are selected by art educators and are limited to a maximum of 3 pieces of artwork from each teacher. All of the exemplary pieces are produced in alignment with the New York State Learning Standards for the Visual Arts. This year, 400 art educators from more than 200 schools in 40 Nassau County school districts, will submit student artwork for this prestigious exhibit. The Art Supervisors Association is honored to provide this venue that gives our community the opportunity to appreciate the creativity, imagination, and skill that is produced by a fundamental, innovative, and vibrant K-12 sequential visual arts education. One of the ASA goals is to nurture young artists and recognize individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to arts education. Therefore, we are pleased to be able to offer scholarships to over 40 graduating senior students for the sixth consecutive year and present our annual Professional Leadership Award at the Scholarship Awards Ceremony (by invitation only) starting at 11 a.m., immediately preceding the All-County Exhibit. Submitted by: Barbara Tancredi and Lisa Fernandez, Publicity Chairpersons, Art Supervisors Association Contact: 516-840-1845 http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4375 Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT A number of Long Beach Middle School and elementary students were recognized for their outstanding team and individual achievements in the first WordMasters Challenge meet of the school year, held in December. WordMasters is a national language arts competition entered by approximately 220,000 students annually. Competing in the most difficult Blue Division, the Long Beach Middle School sixth-grade team of Benedict Albergo, Samuel Brinster, Emily Burns, Ava DeBruin, Blaise Derenze, Evan Garcia, Tristan Groh, Colleen Mannle, Marina Meyer, Violet O'Connell, Trevor Radin, Jesse Scott, Lucia Techera and Gabriel Wilkens-Vega tied for sixth place in the nation among the 403 teams competing at this grade level and division. Samuel, Jesse and Gabriel also received highest honors for individual achievement. They were among the 120 sixth graders in the nation to earn a perfect score. The rest of the team members scored an impressive 19 out of 20. Students prepared for this competition through the middle school’s Activities Promoting Thinking program, under the direction of Lorraine Radice. At the elementary level, fifth grader Charles Gorton, a student at Long Beach Catholic Regional School, was one of only 130 students in his division to achieve a perfect score, competing in the Blue Division. Tyler Collinson of Lido School, who was the top-scoring Long Beach third grader, was one of only 130 third graders throughout the country to score a 19 out of 20 in the Blue Division. This was the first time that she and her fellow third graders took part in the WordMasters Challenge. Elementary students participated in the competition through the district’s Learning Activities for Raising Creativity (LARC) program, under the direction of LARC teachers Beverlee Bertinetti and Caitlin Fuentes. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4334 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Having survived their first semester of college with much success, a group of a dozen graduates of the Long Beach High School Class of 2011 returned to their alma mater to share advice with this year’s juniors and seniors about everything from academics to dorm life. Although their experiences with roommates, class sizes and dining hall food varied considerably, most students agreed that academics are more rigorous at college. The alumni urged the younger students to take advantage of the International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, SUPA and other college-level courses offered at the high school. “Any subject you were good at in high school will become more challenging in college,” said Ben Weiss, who is attending Georgetown University. “AP English really helped me with college-level writing. It will be a much harder learning curve for you at college if you don’t take advanced writing classes in high school.” “The outlining skills I learned in AP Government class also helped me in college,” added Michele Asarch, who attends Binghamton University. “College is a lot more work, a lot of studying, a lot of papers,” said Damaris Swass, who is at Smith College. “As an art major, I also spend a lot of time in the studio.” Although they found their first semester of college challenging, most of the alumni agreed that when they employed the organizational and study skills they learned in high school and planned their class schedules well, they were able to get their coursework done and still have time to get involved in sports, clubs and campus social life. They said that getting involved in activities outside of the classroom actually helped them make friends and better acclimate to college life. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4336 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Final payment for the 7th grade Washington DC trip is due February 8, 2012. Any questions please email Mrs. Altbackerealtbacker@lbeach.org. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4340 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT MathCounts Reel Math Challenge - Vote Now! Click on the link below to vote...: http://video.reelmath.org/home.aspx?vid=Le7jwWrHy6o%253d Greetings, MathCounts Reel Math Challenge - Vote for our students! Four of our 7th grade MATHCOUNTS students created a video based on one of the problems in the 2011-12 MATHCOUNTS School Handbook. The video has been posted to the contest website where the public can vote on the best videos. The 20 videos with the highest vote totals will advance to the semifinals of the competition. At this point, a panel of MATHCOUNTS judges will review the top 20 videos and select four finalists to take an all-expense paid trip to the 2012 MATHCOUNTS National Competition, where they will present their videos to those participating in that event. Simply go to the following web address to vote: http://video.reelmath.org/home.aspx?vid=Le7jwWrHy6o%253d. After viewing the video, just click on the "Like" button to vote for our students, and then spread the word to all of your friends and family to do the same. Thank you for your support! NOTE: The voting deadline is February 1, 2012 http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4320 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Varsity Wrestling team will be featured on MSG Varsity's High School SportsDesk, on January 26, 7:00 pm on channel 14. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4324 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Family Math Day (K-6) at Long Beach High School will be on Saturday, March 24, 2012. Link to more information: Link to details about Workshops Link to the Registration Form http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4289 Sun, 22 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Sixth graders at Long Beach Middle School joined forces to create an interactive exhibit about Ancient Egypt that included afterlife artifacts, pyramids, clay cartouches, ABCs of Egypt books, hieroglyphics, gods and goddesses, papyrus scrolls and even mummified apples. After completing a unit of study in their social studies classes, each team constructed a separate “wing” of the museum, concentrating on a different aspect of the history, culture, beliefs, language and lifestyle of the ancient Egyptians. On the opening day of the exhibit, students gathered to visit the museum together, receiving a list of questions to guide them as they toured and learned from each other’s projects. “This type of interactive project promotes critical thinking skills, communication, collaboration and creativity,” said Social Studies Director Sean Hurley. “Through projects like this, we encourage our students to be active, rather than passive, learners.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4252 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT While conducting studies of local bay pollution for her Science Research class, Long Beach High School senior Arianne Papa was surprised to find that water samples taken from Reynolds Channel contained low levels of pharmaceuticals. Using a UV spectral photometer to test for peak wavelengths of certain drugs in the water samples, she discovered traces of over-the-counter and prescription formulas that people dispose of every day were contaminating the waste lines. With the cooperation of the Long Beach Police Department, Arianne organized Operation Medicine Cabinet to help stem the flow of these drugs into our waterways and landfills. Working with fellow National Honor Society members Jordan Jaffe and Andrew Hurst, NHS advisor Nora Bellsey and Long Beach Police Detective Sergeant Karl Hayes and Officer Angelo Peppe, Arianne set up a collection station for unwanted and expired medicines at two recent High School concerts. The Long Beach Police Department will ensure safe and proper disposal of the medications. “Sewage treatment plants are not testing for pharmaceuticals before discharging the water in the environment,” noted Arianne. “People don’t realize the impact on the environment.” Way to Go: Arianne Papa, Long Beach H.S. Published: January 30, 2012 By Michael R. Ebert Arianne Papa is working to improve her community's local water quality -- one pharmaceutical at a time. The Long Beach High School senior coordinated a drug collection in which residents brought in unwanted or expired medication for proper disposal during the school's winter concerts in December. Papa said the idea stemmed from a science research project she did with classmate Jane Smyth that revealed "very low levels" of aspirin and ibuprofen in nearby Reynolds Creek. "Sewage treatment plants are not testing for pharmaceuticals before discharging the water on the environment," said Papa. To spread the word about her efforts, Papa said the school allowed her to hang fliers in hallways and place an automated phone call to families. Papa and Smyth's research project -- which used mussels to filter treated sewage effluent -- earned them two gold medals last year at the 2011 International Sustainable World (Engineering, Energy and Environment) Project Olympiad, also known as I-SWEEEP. They also took a second-place award last year at the International Science & Engineering Fair. Papa is a drum major in her school's marching band, an officer in the National Honor Society and vice president of the Tri-M Music Honor Society. Read More... http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4253 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Normal.dotm 0 0 1 51 294 @ Home Productions 2 1 361 12.0 0 false 18 pt 18 pt 0 0 false false false /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} High School Musical: February 9-11 The Long Beach High School Theater Department will present “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” on February 9-11 at 7:30 p.m., with a free dress rehearsal performance for senior citizens on Tuesday, February 7 at 4:00 p.m. All performances are in the high school auditorium. For tickets, call 516-897-6500. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4265 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Varsity Girls Track Meet at the NYC Armory has been canceled for tomorrow, Saturday, January 21st. All other athletic contests and high school practices are still on. Check back for further updates. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4266 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT The New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (NYS AHPERD) recognized seniors Dylan Palacio and Zoe Papetti with Zone Awards. The award is given to students who exemplify and demonstrate an understanding for the NYS Learning Standards for Health and Physical Education by: exhibiting a physically active and healthy lifestyle; demonstrating sportsmanship, character, civility and citizenship; exhibiting exceptional achievement in physical education class; and achieving a high level of fitness on an approved fitness test. The students were nominated for this honor by physical education teacher Lynn Tenaglia. They were recognized at a reception for all the Nassau County Zone Award winners on December 12 at the Crest Hollow Country Club. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4201 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Eleven Long Beach High School art students entered their original photography in the Nassau County Bridge Authority’s 2012 Pass Card Contest. The judges were so impressed with the quality of the students’ work that they selected a total of twelve pieces for inclusion in the organization’s 2012 calendar. Christina Carvalho, Emily Cerda, Giovanna Deloca, Justine Smith, Kim Trabulsi, Lauren LiBrizzi, Mark DeGuzman (two pieces), Paola Servellon, Perri Steiner, Shauna Spruiell and Stephanie Lerner were honored at a breakfast at the authority’s board meeting on Dec. 20. Each student received a copy of the calendar as a keepsake. Students created the photos in teacher Sue Solomonic’s Studio in Photography class. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4202 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Middle School eighth grader Jonathan Kapilian survived 19 grueling rounds of competition to be crowned the winner in the Long Beach Public Schools District Spelling Bee. The field of 41 students was whittled down to five competitors in round seven, with middle school students Emily Burns, Jonathan Kapilian, Irving Oliva, Kelly DiResto and Jessica Rollins battling it out for another five rounds, until Jonathan and Jessica were the last two standing. They went head-to-head for an additional seven rounds, until Jonathan pulled off a victory in the 19th round, correctly spelling the word “amethyst” to earn the title of District Spelling Bee Champion. “The Spelling Bee was instituted to help students improve their spelling, increase vocabulary, and develop correct English usage that will help them all their lives,” said Director of English Language Arts Joshua Anisansel. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4203 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4162 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT The next scheduled meeting of the Board of Education is on Tuesday, February 14, 2012, at 7:30 PM in the auditorium of the Long Beach Middle School. The agenda for this meeting will be posted in a timely fashion. Review The Agenda From The January 24th Meeting http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3691 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School students in Carol Henck’s “Health Professions” course took a trip to Long Beach Medical Center to get a firsthand look at the career opportunities available to them in the healthcare profession. Students heard presentations from a registered nurse, a doctor of osteopathic medicine, a social worker and a pharmacist. Careers in medical billing, hospital administration, risk management and mortuary science were also discussed. After the presentations, students broke up into groups to tour the hospital’s diagnostic imaging, dialysis and hyberbarics/wound care units. “Start thinking about where you want your story to go,” advised Dr. Paula Rayo, the hospital’s coordinator of medical education, as she told the students the story of her career in medicine. After their day of touring Long Beach Medical Center, these young healthcare hopefuls will have many new ideas for building their own personal success stories. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4130 Sun, 08 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School has officially named Jonathan Klus the valedictorian of the Class of 2012. Jane Smyth has been named the salutatorian. Jonathan, who is a member of the National Honor Society, was named a National Merit Commended Student and an AP Scholar with Distinction. He has won multiple awards at state and international science competitions, including gold and silver medals at the International Sustainable World (Energy, Engineering and Environment) Project Olympiad, first and third-place awards at the New York Science and Engineering Fair, and highest honors at the Long Island Science Congress. A New York State Scholar-Athlete, he competes on the Varsity Cross-Country, Track and Swim teams. Jonathan is the vice president of the Israeli Culture Club and president of the Future Physicians Club at Long Beach Medical Center, where he is also a junior volunteer. Outside of school, he participated in a summer internship at the Town of Hempstead Department of Conservation and Waterways Laboratory. He is also a Running Club coach at the Long Beach Recreation Center and a City of Long Beach Ocean Beach Park gate attendant. An International Baccalaureate Diploma candidate, Jane is an AP Scholar, a National Merit Commended Student and a member of the National Honor Society. She is vice president of the senior class and a Model Congress executive board member. Jane was a two-time Finalist in the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair and a three-time medalist in the International Sustainable World (Energy, Engineering and Environment) Project Olympiad. She participated in the Simons Research Fellowship Program at Stony Brook University and co-authored a research paper that was published by the New York State Water Environment Association in “Clear Waters.” Jane is an editor of “Fragments,” her school’s literary magazine, and has won a certificate of superior writing from the National Council of Teachers of English, as well as a second-place award in the 2010 National French Week Essay Contest. Outside of school, she practices ballet and en pointe and has earned a third-degree black belt in tae kwon do. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4109 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4110 Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Under the musical direction of Barbara Russo and the guidance of their teachers, first graders at Lindell School in Long Beach presented a fun-filled performance of The Nutcracker for their parents, families and friends. The show was featured in a Newsday video about Nutcracker performances across the island, which was available for viewing on Newsday.com during the holiday season. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4092 Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click on the image below to print out the flyer for this event http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4095 Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students in Long Beach High School’s Nike Alternative High School Program organized their annual holiday toy drive for the children at Nassau University Medical Center, asking each student and faculty member to purchase a toy for either a boy or a girl. The 30 students tripled their initial goal by collecting over 100 toys, which they wrapped in festive holiday paper and delivered personally to children being treated at the hospital. “It is especially rewarding for our students to be able to see firsthand the joy that they bring to these hospitalized children through a simple act of kindness,” said Director of Alternative and Adult Programs Marcia Mulé. This is just one example of the district’s ongoing effort to support the social and emotional learning and development of students, from pre-kindergarten through high school, by creating a school culture where trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship thrive. As part of another annual holiday tradition, Nike students made a trip to New York City to see the holiday sites. This year, the trip was paid for by area resident Steve Jacobson, who donated the money for the trip after hearing that the cost had become prohibitive for many of the students. His generous holiday gift made it possible for all the students to take part in this memorable trip. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4061 Mon, 02 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Best wishes for a safe and happy 2012! http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=4053 Fri, 30 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach teachers Andrew Smith (left), Keith Harvey, Eric Krywe, Cody Onufrok, Eric Heck, Anthony Balsamo, Joseph Brand, Andrew Rossi and Brian Pross (absent from photo) took part in the 2011 fundraising efforts of the Long Island Chapter of Mustaches for Kids, growing mustaches to raise money for Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. This year the Long Island chapter raised more than $70,000 for this noble cause. According to the organization’s website, “Mustaches for Kids is a volunteer-run organization started in Los Angeles in 1999 to do good and have fun by growing mustaches for children’s charities.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3950 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT A special reception was held on December 13 at Lindell School to mark the completion of renovation work, which included restoration of the exterior façade, installation of new windows and an elevator, and bathroom renovations. Present at the reception were Lindell students and their families, past and present Board of Education members, administrators, and representatives of the architectural and construction teams that worked on the project. “The building looks beautiful,” commented Board of Education President Dr. Dennis Ryan in his opening statements. He went on to thank the Lindell neighbors, students and staff who put up with inconveniences during the renovation process, and to acknowledge the dedication of Chief Operating Officer Michael DeVito who supervised every detail of the job, along with Facilities Director Steven Lahey, Building Principal Karen Sauter and Lindell Head Custodian William Snow. Mr. DeVito welcomed representatives of the architectural firm CSArch, project manager Savin Engineers, and general contractor Lipsky Enterprises, who worked together to bring the job to fruition. Former Board President Lynn Gergen was invited to officiate over the ribbon-cutting ceremony and Vice President Roy Lester unveiled the commemorative plaque, while trustee Patrick Gallagher recounted the rich history of the building. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3952 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Middle School's Drama Club presented Guys & Dolls, bringing to life the classic Broadway tale that comically combines love, missionary work and high-stakes gambling, producing some very unexpected romantic results. From the opening scene right through the finale, the young actors made the streets of New York bustle to life in all their glitzy glory. Max Tunney played Nathan Detroit, Jonathan Kapilian was Sky Masterson, Alexandra Kapilian portrayed Adelaide and Caitlin Sheridan appeared in the role of Sarah. The show was directed by Jean-Marie Lilley and Jenna Schebler. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3953 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Camp Anchor, located in Lido Beach, is a year-round not-for-profit camp for children and adults with disabilities. Long Beach High School junior Shannon Romig developed a special relationship with the camp after volunteering there over the summer. To do something special to benefit the camp, she decided to apply for a grant from the Cablevision Power to Learn and MSG Varsity Charity of Champions program. “Because the camp is so close to our high school, many students and teachers volunteer there in the summer. There are also many students from our school's Life Skills program that attend this camp, so it seemed like a perfect cause to support,” said Shannon, who is an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma candidate. With the help of IB Creativity, Action and Service (CAS) advisor Christine Graham, Shannon put together a proposal to adopt the camp for a year by organizing a series of fundraising activities, including a Zumbathon, a Masquerade Ball, pizza and bake sales, and sporting events. Power to Learn was so impressed with her proposal that they awarded her $500 in seed money for her school and a $1,000 grant for Camp Anchor. By qualifying for the grant, she also put her chosen charity in the running to win a grand prize award of $5,000. With the seed money in hand, Shannon went to work to organize the first charity event of the year, a Zumbathon. She enlisted the aid of fellow IB Diploma candidate Harli Weitz to co-chair the event, and sought the support of dance teacher Christianne Donohue, who agreed to be the event’s faculty coordinator. Nearly 75 fellow students and staff members showed up to support her by dancing the afternoon away, following the lively international routines that have made Zumba the latest exercise craze. “This event would not have been possible without Ms. Donohue’s help,” said Shannon. “She not only recruited her IB dance and gym class students, but also encouraged faculty to attend. Having a teacher with a professional dance background truly made the event.” Camp Anchor’s Assistant Director Joseph Lentini was invited to the Zumbathon to accept the $1,000 check, which was presented by Cablevision’s Martha Turner at the beginning of the event. Town of Hempstead Supervisor Kate Murray also dropped by to present a citation acknowledging the school’s efforts on behalf of the camp. In addition to the grant money, the event raised an additional $1,165 for Camp Anchor. This is just one of many special outreach projects that Long Beach High School students plan to accomplish throughout the year as part of the Creativity, Action and Service requirement for International Baccalaureate Diploma candidates. “One of the goals of this project is to have all the IB students participate in one way or another,” said Shannon. “Ms. Graham wants to encourage more students to take a leadership role at some of the upcoming events. Our Masquerade Ball already has six student organizers, which is great.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3945 Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Students in Jacqueline Sharkey’s class at Blackheath Pre-Kindergarten in Long Beach were treated to a special story-time surprise when the character from the storybook they were reading came to pay a visit. A life-sized gingerbread man, played by Mrs. Sharkey’s fifth-grade daughter Samantha Eduardo, made an appearance in the room as Mrs. Sharkey read the famous lines from the book: “Run, run as fast as you can, you can’t catch me I’m the Gingerbread Man.” Care was taken to explain to the children that Samantha was inside the costume and that she would only appear when signaled by a bell to insure that none of the children were startled or frightened. “Any time you can enhance learning with something special, particularly when it comes to developing a love for reading, there are lasting benefits,” said Blackheath School Principal Cristine Zawatson. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3941 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education held two special forums at the Long Beach Public Library to gather community input about revising the district’s facilities use policy. The first forum took place on the evening of November 30, and the second was held on the morning of December 3. Both forums used a World Café format in which participants broke up into groups to listen to each other’s opinions about who the facilities should be made available to, appropriate use of schools and facilities when school is not in session, acceptable hours of use, appropriate use of sound systems and scoreboards, and whether facilities should be used to raise revenue for the school district. Finally, group members were asked to suggest elements that can be built into the policy to promote pride in the Long Beach community and schools. Participants rotated to different groups for each question, which gave them a greater opportunity to share with one another. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3942 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT A total of 54 Long Beach students in grades 4 through 12 qualified to perform in the New York State School Music Association’s (NYSSMA) All-County Festival in January. They will join a select group of musicians from all over Nassau County for a gala concert series at the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts featuring select band, chorus, orchestra, vocal jazz and jazz band performances. Hundreds of students auditioned for this honor at the NYSSMA Solo Evaluation Festivals held last spring. A total of 19 high school students, 17 middle school students and 18 elementary students from around the district will be participating in a variety of performances at the festival over the course of two weekends. For a complete list of the All-County participants, visit the Comprehensive Arts page. LISFA Musicians--Seven students were chosen to participate in the Long Island String Festival Association’s (LISFA) Annual String Festivals. Eighth grader Jonathan Kapilian (cello) and freshman Victoria Epstein (violin), sophomore Dana Berman (violin) and juniors Joseph Keiserman (string bass) and Alexandra Gruber (violin) performed at the LISFA Secondary Festival, held at Massapequa High School on November 18-20. Talia Fernandez, a fifth-grade violinist at Lindell School, and Lea Jaffe, a middle school viola student, will both perform in the elementary festival on March 2-4. All seven young musicians were recognized as representing the highest quality string musicians at their grade levels. This is the second year that Joseph has performed at the LISFA Festival. Among his other musical accomplishments, he is a six-time New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) All-County musician and was chosen this year to perform at the NYSSMA All-State Music Conference. Alexandra is also a two-time LISFA participant and an All-County musician. Dana has performed in two previous LISFA Festivals, in addition to being a four-time All-County musician. Victoria has performed in two previous LISFA Festivals and is a five-time All-County musician. The district was recognized as a 2011 Best Community for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation, which acknowledges schools and districts across the U.S. for their commitment to and support for music education in schools. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3913 Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Classroom Teachers Association held a fundraiser called "Hawaiian Shirts for a Cause," sporting Hawaiian shirts to raise money for food baskets for families in need. In less than an hour the association received over $1,200 in contributions. Thanks to the generosity of the teachers and staff, many Long Beach families, who otherwise could not afford traditional holiday dinners, had a happy Thanksgiving this year. In the Spirit of giving, the LBCTA is also sponsoring a holiday toy drive. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3876 Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3852 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT A group of 35 students in Long Beach High School’s International Baccalaureate Dance classes recently participated in two unique dance experiences that most dancers only dream about. The day began with a trip to the Ailey Extension Joan Weill Center for Dance, where the students participated in a private Horton Technique class with a live accompanist. Then it was on to Penn Station, where the girls were invited to dance with members of the legendary Rockettes as part of a special LIRR holiday promotion. All 35 students also received free tickets to see the Rockettes perform in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. “The look on their faces when they stepped into the studio for their lesson was priceless,” said dance teacher Christianne Donohue. “I am sure these experiences are ones that the students will remember for some time to come,” added Director of Physical Education Arnold Epstein. “This is a perfect example of the tremendous opportunities that the International Baccalaureate program can offer our students.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3840 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Taking up a call to action to help children in shelters, foster care and orphanages sleep more comfortably, Lido Elementary School families participated in the Pajama Program’s Great Bedtime Story Pajama Drive. Together they collected 222 pairs of snuggly pajamas, which will be distributed to children in Nassau County. They also collected $70 in checks and five books to donate to the cause. Each grade had a box of pajamas on display in the main lobby, with one star placed above for every pair of pajamas they donated, making the front window a shining example of their service to others. To celebrate the good work they had done, students, teachers, parents and grandparents all wore pajamas and fuzzy slippers to school for a Great Bedtime Pajama Party. Parents visited their children’s classrooms to read books and complete craft projects together, all of which revolved around the theme of expressing thanksgiving for their own blessings and their wishes for the world. This is just one example of the many community service activities that Long Beach Public School children participate in as part of the district’s goal to promote citizenship, caring and empathy. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3841 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Elementary schools in the Long Beach School District participated in two dancing programs that fostered new levels of social and emotional learning through teamwork, cooperation and mutual respect. Through the Lindell School Buddy Program, classrooms from different grades are paired together throughout the year to help older and younger children make new friends and build on their respect and understanding for one another. The program’s first activity of the year was a Buddy Dance, in which students from different grades paired up to perform a series of traditional folk dances from various cultures. Students studied the history of the dances and practiced the various dance steps with the help of their music and physical education teachers, then met to put all their studies into practice at their first-ever Buddy Dance. Through this exercise, students also learned about rhyming words, sequencing and patterns, increased their memory and listening skills, and developed motor coordination. And all the while, they just thought they were having fun! At East School and West School, all fifth-grade classes danced the night away in their own version of “Dancing with the Stars,” showing off everything they had learned in the “Dancing Classrooms” program. Through ten weeks of ballroom dancing lessons, this innovative character education program has been encouraging the students to cultivate mutual respect, collaboration and self-esteem, as well as teaching them to do a mean tango, foxtrot and waltz. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3817 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Now in its 38th year, the Long Beach Middle School Science Fair continues to provide students with an opportunity to become actively involved in hands-on scientific research. This experience gives every seventh grader a taste of the kind of enriching challenges that await them in the High School Science Research program, IB program, and other college-level science courses. The Long Beach Middle School Science Fair gives students the opportunity to learn the skills of a scientist by performing their own scientific investigations. The emphasis of these projects is on inquiry, discovery and proper use of the scientific method. Students are charged with the task of identifying a problem that they would like to explore, and then tackling that problem through the lens of the scientific method. Students studied the effects of car exhaust, caffeine, Clorox, iodine, mold and rust and carbonated drinks on plants, animals and the environment. No animals were put at risk during experimentation. Project topics ranged from green energy systems and hydroponics to investigations of the physics of crater creation and the effect of gender on the ability to decipher words in different colors. The students worked with their teachers to develop their problem statement and an appropriate hypothesis, which they then tested. At the Science Fair, students were judged for their abstracts, the physical appearance of the projects, oral presentation, use of controls and sampling techniques, use of the scientific method, originality of their projects, validity of their conclusions, and ability to answer questions about the projects. Throughout the course of their presentations, they engaged in lively exchanges with the judges about their findings. Students shared their discoveries with a larger audience of family and friends during the public presentation. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3822 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT The late fall harvest of organic greens and herbs was so abundant from the garden at the Nike Alternative High School that students decided to share their bounty with the Long Beach Food and Friendship INN. Students were proud to be able to gather several baskets of kale, collard greens, bok choy, Asian greens, arugula, Swiss chard and herbs, which they delivered in person to the soup kitchen in time for its holiday dinner. Nike students first broke ground on their garden in the spring of 2009, working in conjunction with Bernadette Martin, the director of Friends & Farmers Inc. and administrator of the Long Beach Farmers Market at Kennedy Plaza. In addition to gardening basics, they have been learning about soil science, biology, nutrition, food justice and scarcity issues. They have also been harvesting enough from their raised beds to sell their produce weekly at the Farmers Market. Nike student Monique Weed has secured an internship at the Farmers Market, where she has been learning the skills necessary to run a successful market stall. This summer, that internship will evolve into a summer job for Monique. According to Ms. Martin, the concept is called Community-Supported Agriculture, with the goal of selling enough produce to make it a self-sustaining program. Over time it should be able to provide even more students with internships and summer jobs that will give them valuable experience in both agriculture and business. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3806 Sun, 04 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT To celebrate the life and legacy of their teacher, coach, mentor and friend, Daniel Bobis, the Long Beach High School Surf Club held a special ceremony in the Long Beach High School commons to unveil a custom-crafted memorial in the shape of a surf board. Mr. Bobis, a beloved high school math teacher, local environmentalist and founder of the Long Beach High School Surf Club, died in a tragic surfing accident this past August off the coast of Indonesia. The ceremony began with the viewing of an MSG Varsity video about the Surf Club. Afterwards, Mr. Bobis’s wife, Rachel, and parents, Jasmine and Bob, spoke eloquently about their beloved husband and son. “Danny took a lot of pride in the Surf Club,” said Rachel. “He worked for years to make this dream for his school a reality. I know how much he loved working here and how much he cared for all of you. You are part of something big.” “Danny tried to cultivate openness and awareness in his students,” said Jasmine. “Education is not putting something in, but drawing something out. Coolness is about self-confidence. Danny was always true to himself. I’m sure that he is looking down on us now, smiling that same expansive smile.” “This is an honor,” added Bob. “Jasmine and I were blessed with such an extraordinary son.” At the end of the ceremony, Danny’s family officiated the unveiling of the memorial surfboard, which was inscribed with the words “One Life Not Wasted.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3745 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT The American Scholastic Press Association has awarded Long Beach High School’s literary magazine “Fragments” a First Place with Special Merit award in the Association’s 2010-2011 competition. The magazine received a total of 960 out of 1000 points for the overall publication. This is the second year in a row that “Fragments” received top honors in this national competition. At the 2011 Columbia Scholastic Press Association’s Gold Circle Award Competition, Long Beach High School 2011 graduate Jacqueline Bokor and junior Joseph Sweeny both received first-place awards in the poetry category. Out of thousands of entries in this category, they earned two out of three possible top spots. Jackie won for her poem entitled "Although It More Often Rained"; Joseph’s winning poem was entitled "Dust." Students edit and write for “Fragments” as part of the High School’s Talented Writers program, taught by Rachell Koegel. Over the years, “Fragments” writers, editors and artists have consistently won top awards at national and state competitions for their work. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3746 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Middle School Peace Club, Multicultural Club and National Junior Honor Society teamed up this year to organize Operation Food Basket, a two-pronged goodwill effort to help local families in need. In the first phase of Operation Food Basket, each of the nine academic teams at the school pledged to raise enough money to sponsor one food basket for a local family in need. A tenth basket was sponsored by the staff. For two weeks, students contributed their extra change to their team’s collection jugs. A few Long Beach Middle School alumni also made generous donations to the cause, contributing ten turkeys and $100 in cash. Club members then met after school with their advisors to assemble and wrap the baskets, giving ten local families all the fixings for a delicious holiday dinner. Phase Two of Operation Food Basket began when it was learned that the Long Beach Food and Friendship INN Soup Kitchen and St. Mary’s Food Pantry were both low on supplies. Students and staff once again rolled up their sleeves and pitched in to bring in hundreds of pounds of non-perishable food donations to help these two local organizations continue their efforts to feed the hungry. Students worked under the direction of Peace Club advisors Lynn Dean, John Anfossi and Tamara Richards and Multicultural Club advisor Glenn Gartung. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3701 Sun, 27 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT In honor of Thanksgiving, students and staff members in the Long Beach Middle School Mentor Program gathered to celebrate the blessings of food, family and friends. The party started with a craft activity in which participants traced their hands and wrote within them a list of things they are thankful for. A scavenger hunt that followed gave participants the chance to make new friends by searching the room for someone who wears glasses, someone who is in sixth grade, someone with brown hair, etc., until each box on the scavenger hunt grid was filled with a different name. A tasty snack of hot dogs and cookies was served. The Mentor Program was started in 2003 by Vice Principal Keith Biesma to give students a little extra guidance from caring and trusted adults as they navigate the many challenges of their adolescent years. During the course of the year, mentors meet approximately once a week with the students to help with homework, have lunch together, collaborate on arts and crafts, bake cookies, give advice or just lend a friendly ear. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3718 Sun, 27 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School senior Dylan Palacio was named the Conference Player of the Year in the boys varsity soccer AA-3 Conference. In the same season, sophomore Shannon Horgan was named the Conference Player of the Year in the girls varsity soccer AA-3 Conference. “It is a special honor to have one Conference Player of the Year,” said Athletic Director Arnold Epstein, “but to have players named in both boys and girls soccer is truly amazing.” A five-year varsity player and team captain, Dylan is a four-time All-Conference and three-time All-County player. Dylan scored 10 of the team’s 19 goals this season and completed 10 assists. This is Shannon’s fourth year as a varsity player. She was named an All-County player in her freshman year. Shannon scored 11 of the team’s 20 goals and completed 6 assists. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3689 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School Surf teams finished eighth and fifteenth at the National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) Northeastern High School Championships, held on October 30 in Ocean City, NJ. In the boys longboard division, Matt Kaplan advanced through a combination of radical progressive maneuvers and classic longboard style to the finals, where he placed sixth overall in the Northeast. Jon Griefenberger surfed well into the third round, where he was stymied by inconsistent waves during his heat. Max Esformes, Billy Pallazo and Sean "Staples" Dublynn all advanced to the second round. Although they did not advance to the semifinals, Hailey Weitz, Chandler Gregor and Shannon Horgan also gave standout performances. Last year, Long Beach High School became the first and only school in New York State to form a district-sanctioned competitive surf club team. The team was formed under the guidance of Coach Dan Bobis, who worked tirelessly to make the dream of forming a surf team in Long Beach a reality. When Bobis died this past summer in a tragic surfing accident off the coast of Indonesia, his wife Rachel and fellow Long Beach teachers Anthony Balsamo and Richard Rogers took over the team, so this was a bittersweet competition for all involved. PHOTOS: Courtesy of Doug Kramer http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3679 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT In what has become a rite of passage at Long Beach Middle School, sixth graders received a visit from Doug Wilhelm, author of The Revealers, a fictional story about bullying. Since The Revealers was the first shared reading experience of the year for the entire sixth-grade class, this visit was especially meaningful. The event combined two of the district’s main missions - character education and literacy - in one powerful package. Mr. Wilhelm spent a full day at the school, delivering a group presentation to the entire class and following it with individual classroom discussions. Over the course of the day, he answered dozens of questions that the students had prepared for him about the writing process, his motivation for writing The Revealers, and the steps students can take to make their own school bully-proof. Mr. Wilhelm even joined editors of the school newspaper for a lunchtime interview. The Revealers tells the story of Russell, Elliot and Catalina, three seventh graders on the receiving end of a spectrum of bullying from their classmates. They turn to each other, embarking on a mission to understand why some people choose to take advantage of others. By taking a scientific approach to their collective problem, they come up with a way to stop the bullying once and for all. Mr. Wilhelm, who was bullied himself while growing up, has told hundreds of students throughout the country about his experiences. He spoke frankly about finding inner power as an individual, and stressed how important it is to stop being a passive bystander. He also gave the students insight into the psychology of bullies and discussed useful strategies for combating their tactics. “Reading The Revealers and meeting Mr. Wilhelm personally enforced a powerful message that we try to impart to our students every day,” said Director of English Language Arts Joshua Anisanel. “We need to celebrate what is unique about each of us. If we act as a community, we can stand up to bullies and prevent the weakest of us from falling prey to their attacks.” This is just one example of the district’s ongoing effort to support the social and emotional learning and development of students, from pre-kindergarten through high school, to make schools safer, maintain a caring school climate, facilitate students’ holistic development, and enhance motivation and high achievement. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3680 Sun, 20 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Board of Education will hold two special forums at the Long Beach Public Library to gather community input about the district’s revised Facilities Use Policy. The first forum will take place on Wednesday, November 30 at 8:00 p.m. The second forum will be held on Saturday, December 3 at 9:30 a.m. Residents who are interested in attending either meeting must contact the District Clerk at 516-897-2108 to sign up in advance. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3656 Sun, 20 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Audiences were drawn back to a time when family life revolved around the dinner table, as Long Beach High School Drama Department presented A.R. Gurney’s The Dining Room. This series of 18 different vignettes about the upper middle-class family life earned a 1982 Pulitzer Prize nomination. The six-person cast of Joseph Keiserman, Russell Goetz, Adam Goldenberg, Eileen Kelly, Kayla McAvoy and Alexandra Brodsky played a revolving series of characters, including husbands, wives, children, grandparents, lovers, servants and furniture repairmen. Among the subjects touched on in the intimate setting of the family dining room were class distinctions, infidelity, family values and conflicts, the Great Depression and WWII. There were three regular performances, as well as a free dress rehearsal performance for senior citizens. The show was directed by Vanessa Krywe. Eric Krywe served as the technical director, and Joseph Keiserman was the student director. Sets and lighting were designed by Kenneth Horgan, Corey Healy was the stage manager, and Taylor Barje was the props mistress. Behind the scenes making everything run smoothly were crewmembers Taylor Barje, Jordan Brodsky, John Costigan, Brian Crosby, Alexandra Duffy, Corey Healy, Nicholas Lao, Adam Madisen, Sinclair Mason, Alexander Passaro, Charlene Rollins, Samantha Ronda, Luigi Rueda, Jesse Schaefer and Bryan Tipptree. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3657 Sun, 20 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Newsday.com has launched a Long Island School Event Photo Gallery. To view photos of school events at Long Beach Public Schools and other districts around the Island, visit: www.newsday.com/long-island-school-event-photos-1.3312031 http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3633 Thu, 17 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT In what has become an annual tradition, Long Beach Middle School seventh graders welcomed over 30 veterans, who collectively have fought in every war from WWII through the War on Terror, to speak to students about their experiences. Veterans were greeted by a “Field of Honor” that consisted of 150 American flags adorning the front lawn of the school complex. The main hallway of the school was turned into a “Hall of Heroes” that was decorated with American flags and flags representing each branch of the armed forces. A brass ensemble played while the veterans were escorted down the hall by a student color guard, as the entire seventh-grade student body recognized them with enthusiastic applause. Each classroom paid tribute to a different war with slideshows, pictures and memorabilia. Veterans shared stories and answered students’ questions. They explained how they came to serve in the military, what daily life had been like, and which countries they had seen while in the service. Each speaker shared unique and personal stories, recollections and opinions, bringing new meaning to the American history lessons that the students had been studying in their classrooms during the year. Veterans from WWII, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq were among the honored guests. Michael Valente, who earned a Congressional Medal of Honor for his service back in WWI, was represented by his grandson Ralph Madalena, who brought in a display of his grandfather’s medals and memorabilia, including the Medal of Honor, which will soon be displayed at a national museum. A number of the veterans who spoke were relatives of students and teachers in the district. Richard Gonzalez, who was a Lt. Commander in the U.S. Coast Guard for 21 years, was invited by his wife, Robin, a history teacher at the high school. Ronnie Amato, a disabled veteran of the Vietnam war, was invited to Long Beach Middle School’s first annual Veterans Day Celebration in 2008 by his son Ronnie, Jr., who was a seventh grader at the time. Gerald Hunt, who is in active duty in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, was invited by his daughter, Madison, who is a seventh grader at the middle school. At the conclusion of the classroom discussions, the veterans were escorted to the auditorium, where students honored them with original poems, a choral presentation and gifts. A luncheon was provided through the courtesy of local restaurants. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3619 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT To honor our veterans and those men and women actively serving our country today, Long Beach Middle School seventh graders teamed up with the Middle School Wood Club and Mural Club, the High School Key Club and the Kiwanis Club of Long Beach to erect a “Field of Honor,” consisting of over one hundred 3 x 5 foot commemorative American flags. For this school-community partnership project, Whitbread Lumber of Long Beach donated the lumber for the poles, the middle school wood shop students cut the mounting holes, and middle school art classes and Mural Club members painted the poles white. For a $30 donation, area residents were invited to sponsor anyone they wanted to honor with one or more of these keepsake flags. On November 7, 150 flags were amassed on the front lawn of the district administration building on Lido Boulevard. They will remain on display through December 7, which is Pearl Harbor Day. All proceeds will benefit families of veterans and active military personnel through scholarships and camp stipends. Long Beach Public School students throughout the district will be participating in similar community service activities during the course of the school year as part of the district’s emphasis on promoting citizenship. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3623 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Under the guidance of swimming coaches John Skudin and Lynn Tanaglia and diving coach Woody Davis, the Long Beach High School Girls Varsity Swim team won the Section VIII Division B Title meet, held at the Nassau Aquatic Center on October 26. The team later finished fourth at the County Championships on November 2-5, with Cady Zawatson, Kellie Cannon and Emma Harris all qualifying to compete at the State Championships on November 18 and 19. Cady qualified in both the 200-yard and 500-yard freestyle, with times of 155.3 and 507.9, respectively. Kellie also qualified in the 200-yard freestyle, with a time of 142.8. With a score of 418, Emma, who finished fourth in the county, qualified in diving. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3624 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT West School parents joined their children for a fun night of math and science discovery at Math Uniting Science and Technology Night, better known as MUST. Using games and hands-on activities, participants were invited to explore the wonders of computers, chemistry, marine biology, measurements, accounting and more. Families explored a host of scientific and mathematical principles by planting seeds, running a virtual hot dog stand, making bird feeders, mixing up a cornstarch quicksand and creating their own aquariums. At over a dozen estimation stations, students tried their hands at estimating the number of gum balls, insects, tootsie rolls, spin tops and other objects in containers lining the hallway. Those who came closest to the actual number walked away with the contents of the container at the end of the evening. This is just one example of the district’s ongoing commitment to engage parents as educational partners, working together with teachers and administrators to help every child reach his or her full potential. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3608 Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School Student Government representatives Gavin Enright, Ashita Patel, Victor Tarantino, David Velez and Dylan Palacio attended a leadership conference at Hofstra University with Principal Dr. Gaurav Passi. The conference was jointly sponsored by the Nassau County High School Principals’ Association and the Suffolk County High School Principals Association. Participants received leadership training to help them facilitate excellent relations between students and school administrators, enhance avenues of communication, encourage school spirit, prevent bullying, help at-risk students and foster community outreach. The Long Beach participants noted that it was helpful to talk to students from other schools and share ideas for community service projects, fundraising activities and social events that could help unify their school and encourage more students to feel like an integral part of their school community. One of the highlights of the program for the Long Beach students was a motivational presentation about achieving goals. The presenter asked for a volunteer to jump as high as he or she could to hit a mark on the wall. Dylan, who is a Varsity athlete, volunteered. After he made an impressive jump, the presenter marked the spot on the wall. The presenter then taped a $100 bill a foot above that spot, and told Dylan that he could keep the bill if he was able to grab it. With the crowd cheering him on, Dylan rose to the challenge and plucked the money from the wall. The presenter then told him that even with weeks of training, it was statistically impossible for an athlete to improve his best jump by that much. “The lesson I learned that day was that sometimes it’s not just about you,” said Dylan. “Knowing that someone else believes in you lets you go above and beyond. Since then, I’ve been encouraging my teammates by letting them know I believe in them. It’s definitely had a positive effect on our performance.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3609 Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Guidance Department recently hosted the second of two Fall College Mini-Fairs, giving seniors and their parents the opportunity to meet with admissions representatives from nearly 40 colleges, including SUNY Binghamton, SUNY Geneseo, SUNY Oneonta, SUNY Oswego, SUNY Potsdam, Adelphi University, Clarkson College, Iona College, Lincoln Technical Institute, Manhattanville College, Molloy College, Queensborough Community College, Sacred Heart University, Rutgers University, St. John’s University, St. Joseph’s College, Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology, and Utica College. “These mini-fairs provide a relaxed, intimate atmosphere for students to chat face-to-face with college representatives, explore the programs offered at each school, and gather information that will help them make a more informed decision about where to apply,” said Director of Guidance Patricia Hausfeld. The High School Guidance Department also hosted a special presentation for Grade 9 and 10 students and their parents, entitled "Where Am I Going after High School and How Do I Get There Starting Now." A panel of college representatives from Nassau Community College, SUNY Oneonta, SUNY Stony Brook, and Baruch College spoke about the difference between a community college, a state college, a university and a private college. They also gave students useful information about what they should start doing now to prepare for college and careers. Other upcoming guidance events include Financial Aid Night on December 8 at 7:00 p.m., the Grade 11 Parent/Student Meeting on March 1 at 7:00 p.m., and a college mini-fair for juniors on April 23. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3576 Sun, 13 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT To get into the spirit of Thanksgiving, Newsday.com went to the Blackheath Pre-K Center and asked preschoolers to draw a picture of what they are thankful for this year. As kids will do, they remind us of the simple things for which we should all be grateful. To see what they had to say, visit http://long-island.newsday.com/kids. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3577 Sun, 13 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT All across the Long Beach City School District, students were celebrating the importance of making responsible decisions as they participated in a celebration of Red Ribbon Week. As part of the district’s continuing instruction in social and emotional learning, activities at all four elementary schools were geared toward teaching students the skills they need to make healthy choices, now and in the future. At Lido School, the festivities began with each student signing a banner and placing their wishes for their future in a Red Ribbon wish box. During the week, they wore their shirts backwards as a reminder to turn their back on drugs, participated in a can drive for local food pantries, and wore caps to remember to put a cap on drugs. On Friday, everyone wore red to march in a parade around the school, chanting “We make healthy choices every day!” Lindell School’s Red Ribbon Week theme was “It’s Up to Me.” During the opening celebration, students and teachers joined forces, using puppets, props, songs and dances to present skits about making responsible choices. Each day, different classroom activities reinforced the message of the opening assembly. The theme of East School’s celebration was “‘Bee’ Healthy.” Students showed their commitment to good health by filling a bulletin board with bees bearing the names of every child in the school. Throughout the week, teachers incorporated healthy themes into their lesson plans. Students wore their team jerseys to team up for healthy decisions, crazy hats as a reminder to use their heads to make healthy choices, and work boots to give junk food the boot. At West School, students pledged to be “Rockin’ Students of Good Character.” They wore sunglasses as a reminder to shine like a star, wore crazy socks to rock their socks off and be healthy, and dressed in pajamas to rock-a-bye baby and be drug-free. They finished up the week with a Rock Star Rally to celebrate their commitment to a healthy lifestyle. At the end of the rally, students marched around the west end of Long Beach with posters depicting slogans such as “We Will Rock You by Being Drug-Free.” The Red Ribbon program is the nation’s largest and oldest drug awareness campaign. The mission of the program is to encourage others to make a visible commitment to eradicate drug abuse from our homes, schools, communities and nation. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3538 Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Five Long Beach Middle School eighth graders qualified to participate in the Johns Hopkins Talent Search, sponsored by the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth. Alexandra Kapilian, Jonathan Kapilian, Samantha Melconian, America Muratori and Jordan Torregrosa became eligible for the program based on their outstanding performance on the NYS ELA and Math Assessments. Through the Talent Search, the students were invited to take either the ACT or SAT exam in seventh or eighth grade. After successfully completing these exams, they received certificates of participation, which will allow them to attend summer programs on college campuses or take online college-level courses across the U.S. Family events throughout the year are also offered. Jordan, who completed the ACT exam in December 2010, has already taken advantage of one of the summer programs at Roger Williams University, where he studied principles of engineering design. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3515 Sun, 06 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach High School Marching Band joined students from the Blackheath Pre-K School for their annual Literacy Parade. Each Pre-K class dressed as a different literary character or famous book, including “Clifford the Big Red Dog,” “Horton Hatches the Egg,” “Dog’s Colorful Day” and “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom.” Students also dressed as characters from “Spooky the Square Pumpkin” and “One,” two books about diversity and tolerance that they had read in their classrooms. As the high school band and color guard played, the storybook characters marched around the school to the applause and cheers of family and friends. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3495 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Link to the: 7th Grade Field Trip Page http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3482 Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT In honor of Board of Education Appreciation Week, Long Beach High School fine and performing artists presented a special show of gratitude to Board members at the October 25 meeting. The members of the Board of Education are volunteers who serve the community without pay. The presentation began with a brief introduction by Director of Comprehensive Arts Dr. Dale Johanson, followed by a testimonial from high school student Rebecca Spodick, who recounted how much she learned from all the art courses that she has taken at Long Beach High School, including portfolio development and the newly introduced International Baccalaureate art classes. A PowerPoint presentation of student artwork followed. Each Board member received a copy of the presentation as a remembrance of the evening. High School junior Russell Goetz was next to speak, highlighting the many opportunities that have been offered to him through the Long Beach Music and Theater Department as a vocalist, instrumentalist and thespian. As his gift to the Board, he sang “I’ve Got the World on a String,” the piece that he performed in the NYSSMA All-State Festival. All-State alternate Annie Winerip accompanied him on the trumpet, while vocal teacher Michael Capobianco played the piano. The festivities concluded with a presentation by the Central Council PTA, who expressed their gratitude with a PTA “Swag Bag” containing gifts from each of the school PTAs. “This is one of our favorite nights of the year,” said Central Council PTA Co-President Gerri Maquet. “As fellow volunteers, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all that you do for our children and our community.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3447 Sun, 30 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT All County Participating Students 2012 Div Student Name Group Instrument School Teacher I Alexa Coffin Band Clarinet East L. Osnato I Roman Minneci-Mitchell Chorus East M. Bennett I David Newman Chorus East M. Bennett I Brooke Waller Chorus East M. Bennett I Thomas Walsh Chorus East M. Bennett I Alyscia Batista Chorus East M. Bennett I Alec Chasin Chorus East M. Bennett I Natalie Goggin Chorus East M. Bennett I Sydney Morse Orchestra Violin East M. Bennett I Sharolette Addesso Orchestra Violin East M. Bennett I Ryan Possidel Band Trumpet Lido D. Renoud I Jared Starman Band Bass Clar. Lindell L. Osnato I Talia Fernandez Orchestra Violin Lindell N. Polstein I Edward Vrona Band Clarinet West D. Renoud I Charlotte Kile Chorus West V. Krywe I Mia Enright Chorus West V. Krywe I Megan Gonzalez Chorus West V. Krywe I Shea McMahon Chorus West V. Krywe II Andrew Buskey Band Alto Sax Middle C. Cody II Violet O’Connor Chorus Middle S. Mauskopf II Mikayla Dean Chorus Middle S. Mauskopf II Jack Plunkett Chorus Middle S. Mauskopf II Jennifer Rotando Orchestra Viola Middle D. Lobenstein II Claire Ezratty Orchestra Cello Middle D. Lobenstein III Michael Varricchio Band Bari Sax Middle E. Altbacker III Chad Marsh Band Trumpet Middle E. Altbacker III Alexandra Kapilian Band Bassoon Middle E. Altbacker III Luc Esformes Band Tenor Sax Middle E. Altbacker III Kristin Miciotta Chorus Middle S. Mauskopf III Matt Mowery Chorus Middle S. Mauskopf III Max Tunney Chorus Middle S. Mauskopf III Jonathan Kapilian Chorus Middle S. Mauskopf III Francine Nizhnik Orchestra Violin Middle E. Lobenstein III Gavin Byrne Orchestra French Horn Middle E. Altbacker III Kyle Christie Orchestra Trumpet Middle E. Altbacker IV Chris Abrego Band Bari Sax High West/Bragino IV Ilana Blumenthal Band Trombone High West/Bragino IV Michaela Rynecki Band Clarinet High West/Bragino IV Steven Hurst Chorus High M. Capobianco IV Whitney Flaum Chorus High M. Capobianco IV Chandler McMillan Chorus High M. Capobianco IV Dana Berman Orchestra Violin High J. Gaglione IV Max Esformes Orchestra Bassoon High West/Bragino V Randy Sattaur Band Baritone High West/Bragino V Grace Smith Band Flute High West/Bragino V Rachel Weiss Band Flute High West/Bragino V Annie Winerip Jazz Band Trumpet High West/Bragino V Mary Deniston Chorus High M. Capobianco V Jessica Fernandez Chorus High M. Capobianco V Joseph Keiserman Vocal Jazz High M. Capobianco V Russell Goetz Vocal Jazz High M. Capobianco V Alexandra Gruber Orchestra Violin High J. Gaglione V Jesse Klirsfeld Orchestra Trumpet High West/Bragino V Jordan Jaffe Orchestra Bassoon High West/Bragino http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3453 Sun, 30 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Due to the inclement weather, the high school marching band will NOT be performing at today's (Oct. 29) football game. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3431 Sat, 29 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT The High School Marching Band will NOT be performing at today's (Oct. 29) football game. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3432 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Drama and wit will be on the menu as the Long Beach High School Drama Department presents A.R. Gurney’s “The Dining Room,” a series of vignettes about the upper middle-class family life that earned a 1982 Pulitzer Prize nomination. Performances are on November 17, 18 and 19 at 7:30 p.m. in the high school auditorium, with a special FREE dress rehearsal performance for senior citizens on November 15 at 4:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 and are available at the door. To reserve tickets, call 897-6500. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3405 Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT The application deadline for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) has been extended to November 16, 2011 for residents who are unemployed as a direct result of flooding caused by Hurricane Irene. For information about this and other FEMA Disaster Assistance, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) Letter How Do I Apply For Disaster Assistance (English) (Spanish) http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3409 Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT A total of 52 students at Long Beach High School have earned AP Scholar Awards in recognition of their exceptional achievement on AP Examinations during the 2010-2011 school year, including two students who qualified as National AP Scholars. The College Board’s Advanced Placement (AP) Program provides willing and academically prepared students with the opportunity to take rigorous college-level courses while still in high school, and to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both for successful performance on the AP Exams. These young scholars belong to a select group--only18 percent of the more than 1.8 million students worldwide who took AP Exams performed at a sufficiently high level to also earn an AP Scholar Award. Long Beach High School’s 2011 Valedictorian Jordan Ochs and senior Ambrose Plante both earned National AP Scholar Awards—the highest honor bestowed in the program—by earning an average score of 4 or higher on a five-point scale on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 4 or higher on eight or more of these exams. Ambrose is one of the first Long Beach students to qualify for this honor before completing his senior year. A total of 14 students qualified for the AP Scholar with Distinction Award by earning 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. These students are Lauren Chung, Robert Cornacchia, Sophie Corwin, Graham Greene, Andrew Hurst, Jordan Jaffe, Brittany Kaplan, Jonathan Klus, Jordan Ochs, Arianne Papa, Ambrose Plante, Griffin Shapiro, Benjamin Weiss and Sophia Xu. Another 10 students qualified for the AP Scholar with Honor Award by earning 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. These students are Ayla Alvarez, George Ambrosini, Carlos Benavides, Andrew DiGiorgio, Casey Harsh, Peter Morelli, Matthew Pisciotta, Roxette Romanes, Melanie Simons and Annie Winerip. An additional 26 students qualified for the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP Exams with scores of 3 or higher. The AP Scholars are Jesse Adler, Jessica Amen, Jesse Arnaudd, Michelle Asarch, Sarah Ben-Moussa, Christine Bertinetti, Joanna Cincotta, Danielle Danoski, Kirsten Donovan, Liam Fitzpatrick, Jazmine Galarreta, Halie Gates, Rebekah Geiselman, Hannah Gittler, Emily Graham, Aditi Gupta, Lila Martz, Harris Pittinsky, Saira Ramessar, Eric Rubin, Brandon Sadowsky, Alexa Salazar, Jane Smyth, Sophie Torres, Brian Whelan and Cady Zawatson. Of this year’s award recipients at Long Beach High School, 26 are seniors. These students have one more year remaining to complete college-level work and possibly earn a higher-level award. The other recipients of AP Scholar Awards are graduates of the Class of 2011. Long Beach High School offers a total of 14 AP courses, which are open to any student willing to rise to the challenge. The AP Program is just one of three college-level programs offered at Long Beach High School. Students can select to participate in the world-renowned International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, and can also choose from among 11 other college-level courses offered through the Syracuse University Project Advance and other colleges. Research shows that students who take AP and International Baccalaureate courses typically experience greater academic success in college and have higher college graduation rates than students who do not avail themselves of the rigorous curriculum offered by advanced-level high school courses. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3400 Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach Middle School students Jack Cruse-Mulhall and Jonathan Kapilian are among the 72 students this year to be named Long Island Young Scholars of Mathematics by the Institute of Creative Problem Solving for Gifted and Talented Students at SUNY College at Old Westbury. Through the institute, they will participate in a 20-week Saturday program in mathematics and mathematical science applications. To qualify for this honor, they competed against 700 of the top-ranking students nominated from school districts on Long Island. Selection by the Institute implies that a student is among the top one-tenth of one percent in math of all students on Long Island in his or her grade. Acceptances were based on five criteria: a rigorous entrance exam, nomination, school transcript, recommendation by the student’s last math teacher, and a brief statement written by the student. Jack, who is a sixth grader, was recommended by his former Lido School math teacher Mary Doheny. He qualified this year to participate in Long Beach Middle School’s MATHCOUNTS enrichment and competition program for gifted and talented sixth graders, and is also a member of the Middle School Math Olympiad team. Jonathan, now in eighth grade, was recommended for this honor by Long Beach Middle School math teacher and Math Olympiad coach Tara Mele. Jonathan is a member of the Middle School Math Olympiad team. Each student is expected to attend 20 Saturday morning classes and to also complete related outside projects. The curriculum will cover mathematical topics from algebra, geometry and number theory not included in the standard courses of study, such as problem-solving applied to probability, drawing of ocean bottom profile, theory of finite differences and mass point geometry. Additionally, selected topics in science will be discussed. Participants will develop their abilities to use a variety of problem-solving skills and strategies; increase their interest and enthusiasm for problem-solving in mathematics; sharpen their mathematical intuition and develop their “brain power”; become acquainted with interesting and important mathematical ideas; and experience the satisfaction and thrill of discovery associated with creative problem-solving. Over the years, many of the Institute graduates have gone on to win prestigious awards, including national and international math, science and engineering contests. A number of alumni of the Institute have been selected as Intel and Siemens awardees in math, science and technology. The Institute is supported by SUNY College at Old Westbury, the Nassau County Mathematics Teachers Association, the Suffolk County Mathematics Teachers Association, the Nassau County Interscholastic Mathematics League, the Nassau County Association of Mathematics Supervisors, and Mathematical Olympiads for Elementary and Middle Schools. Funding for the Institute comes from corporate, foundation and individual contributors who believe that offering programs tuition-free maintains equal accessibility to all students who qualify. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3401 Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT At halftime of the Long Beach High School Varsity Home Football game on Saturday, October 29, the Long Beach High School Athletic Department will honor the 1986 Varsity Football team on the 25th Anniversary of their making it to the county finals. Coach Bernhardt and many of the former team members will be present. Game kickoff is 1:30 p.m. at Veterans Field at the Lido Complex. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3387 Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT At halftime of the Long Beach High School Varsity Home Football game on Saturday, October 29, the Long Beach High School Athletic Department will honor the 1986 Varsity Football team on the 25th Anniversary of their making it to the county finals. Coach Bernhardt and many of the former team members will be present. Game kickoff is 1:30 p.m. at Veterans Field at the Lido Complex. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3388 Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach High School Marching Band and Color Guard performed a high-stepping tribute to Billy Joel at the 49th Annual Newsday Marching Band Festival at Hofstra University on October 18. The Festival, which acts as a fundraiser for the participating bands, will air in its entirety on iO TV Channel 14 on Thanksgiving Day. For photos and video, visit: www.msgvarsity.com/marchingbands or www.newsday.com/marchingbandfestival http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3338 Thu, 20 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT John and Kelly Halligan lost their thirteen-year-old son, Ryan, to suicide on October 7, 2003. It was later revealed that Ryan had been ridiculed and humiliated by peers at school and online. Since then, Mr. Halligan has become an outspoken advocate for the need for more education and prevention of bullying, cyber bullying and teen suicide. Mr. Halligan visited the Long Beach School District to tell his son’s tragic story to Long Beach Middle School and High School students. He also presented a special evening session for parents of children in grades K-12. To make it possible for parents of younger children to attend, babysitting was provided. Mr. Halligan began with a video presentation of home movie clips and pictures of Ryan. He then told the story of Ryan’s life and the factors that led up to his son’s suicide. The audience gained a unique perspective from inside the family of a child who was a victim of bullying and cyber bullying. They also gained a deeper understanding of the devastating impact that teen suicide has on a family. Through Mr. Halligan’s very personal story, they also learned several life lessons about the power of forgiveness and the importance of finding ways to turn a tragedy into hope for others. As his story unfolded, Mr. Halligan followed Ryan’s journey through adolescence and his painful relationship with a bully, who over the years taunted him, eventually befriended him, and ultimately betrayed him by spreading vicious rumors in school and through social media. Some children joined in with the bully, while others stood by and did nothing, until ultimately the pain became too much for Ryan to bear. “With the advent of social media, bullying has become more emotional than physical,” he explained. “We can’t stop the problem without your help. The bystander is a big part of the problem. If just one friend had the courage to set that bully straight, Ryan might still be with us today. Nothing will change until you make a change. Don’t be a bystander. Be an upstander. Be a hero. You have the power.” On the topic of depression, he offered students this advice, “If you are feeling hopeless, I beg you to ask for help. Talk to your parents or another adult you can trust. If you need help, ask; if you have a friend who needs help, ask for them. Remember, all of you are loved more than you will ever know.” During the evening presentation, Mr. Halligan shared the lessons that he learned too late to save his own son. He empowered parents with strategies that they can use to take preventative actions with their own children, including a handout with dozens of suggestions regarding the safe use of technology. "Conflicts can be resolved through negotiation. Bullying is something different. Watch your kids and recognize the signs, take control of the gadgets, and pay attention to the bystanders. They are the ones who need to start standing up, to tell the bully that it’s not okay, to chip away at his audience, to take away his power.” In memory of his son, Mr. Halligan spearheaded the Vermont Bully Prevention bill, which was signed into law (ACT117) in May 2004, only a few months after Ryan’s death. He also successfully led the passage of the law pertaining to mandatory suicide prevention education in public schools (ACT 114) in April 2006. His son’s story and his accomplishments in response to this tragedy have been told worldwide. This presentation of “Ryan’s Story” is just one example of the district’s ongoing work to support the social and emotional learning and development of all Pre-K-12 students in an effort to make schools safe, maintain a caring school climate, facilitate students’ holistic development, and enhance motivation and high achievement. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3321 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Children from Long Beach’s East School donned their most snuggly pajamas, grabbed their favorite stuffed animal and headed back to school with their parents to enjoy an evening PJ Party for kindergartners and first and second graders. While the children cozied up to read books and do crafts with their teachers in the gymnasium, parents attended a literacy workshop in the cafeteria, conducted by Principal Sean Murray and reading teacher Jennifer Pullara. To reinforce the social emotional learning going on daily at East School, the theme of the PJ Party was friendship. Teachers read a variety of “Henry and Mudge” books that touched on the subject of being a good friend. Then students went to work making keepsake friendship necklaces out of macaroni, string and big paper medallions that spelled out the word “friendship.” Meanwhile, at the parent workshop, Mr. Murray explained the newly revised NYS Common Core Standards in English Language Arts and Literacy, and how the new standards will result in a shift in expectations for students, including a new focus on building academic vocabulary, reading non-fiction texts and exposing students to more complex texts. He then went on, with the help of Ms. Pullara, to demonstrate a number of easy ways that parents can help their children reinforce their reading and vocabulary skills while going about their daily routines at home and around town. To get the most out of their shared reading time, he introduced parents to eight simple steps they could use to engage in “text talk” with their children to help implant new vocabulary words into long-term memory. “It’s never too early to start using rich vocabulary with your children,” he explained. “But if you haven’t been doing these things, don’t worry, because it’s also never too late to start.” This is just one example of the district’s ongoing commitment to engage parents as educational partners, working together with teachers and administrators to help every child reach his or her full potential. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3312 Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT A lesson on drawing the human body became a community service outreach project when students in Judith Knoop’s seventh-grade art classes at Long Beach Middle School participated in a contest to design a T-shirt for the Surfer’s Way Foundation. Surfer’s Way is a Long Beach-based non-profit organization that gives autistic children a chance to experience the thrill of surfing. Tamara Benny created the winning design, shown here. She is pictured with her mom, Olga Arteaga (left), Surfer’s Way founder Elliot Zuckerman and Ms. Knoop. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3297 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School senior Ambrose Plante has been named a Semifinalist in the 2012 National Merit Scholarship Program. As a Semifinalist, he ranks among the top one percent of the more than 1.5 million students who entered the competition by taking the National Merit Scholarship Corporation’s Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, better known as the PSAT. He will now have the opportunity to advance and compete for some 8,200 National Merit Scholarships to be awarded next spring. Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to continue to the Finalist level. About 90 percent of the Semifinalists are expected to attain Finalist standing, and approximately half of the Finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title. Ambrose is a member of the National Honor Society, the Foreign Language Honor Society and the Tri-M Music Honor Society. He was recently named a National AP Scholar for his exceptional performance on Advanced Placement exams. He is an All-County vocalist, has competed in the NYSSMA solo evaluations in classical guitar, and is a member of the Chess Club. A Varsity Tennis and Hockey player, Ambrose was a member of the 2010-2011 State Championship Hockey team. He also works as a skate guard and hockey instructor at the Long Beach Ice Arena. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3256 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School seniors Aditi Gupta, Jonathan Klus, Lila Martz, and Jane Smyth have been named Commended Students in the 2012 National Merit Scholarship Competition. Of the more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2012 competition by taking the 2010 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), only 34,000 were named Commended Students, placing them in the top five percent of all students who took the test. Aditi, who is an International Baccalaureate Diploma candidate, was also named an AP Scholar. She is a member of the National Honor Society and the Foreign Language Honor Society. Active in science research, she qualified to compete in the New York Science Congress. An accomplished musician, Aditi performs in the Select Choir and the Chamber Orchestra. Jonathan is a member of the National Honor Society and was named an AP Scholar with Distinction. Active in science research, he has won multiple awards at international science competitions. Jonathan is the vice president of the Israeli Culture Club, president of the Future Physicians Club at Long Beach Medical Center, and is a hospital volunteer. As an athlete, he competes on the Varsity Cross Country team and the Varsity Swim team. A National Honor Society officer, Lila organized the society’s annual Badminton for Breast Cancer Tournament. She is a two-year captain of the Varsity Tennis team. Lila also qualified to take the Chemistry Olympiad test. During the summer, she volunteers at Camp Anchor, a local camp for special-needs children. An International Baccalaureate Diploma candidate, Jane is an AP Scholar and a member of the National Honor Society. She is vice president of the senior class and is a Model Congress delegate chair. She has won multiple science research awards at regional, national and international science competitions, and participated in the Simons Research Fellowship Program at Stony Brook University. Jane also writes for “Fragments,” her school’s literary magazine, and has won local and state awards for her writing. Outside of school, she practices tae kwon do and ballet. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3257 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Board of Education has officially appointed Sabrina Cantore to serve as the district’s Executive Director of Pupil Personnel Services, effective October 3, 2011. Ms. Cantore most recently served as the Interim Assistant Superintendent of Special Education and Pupil Services for Great Neck Public Schools. She joined the Great Neck special education department in July of 2002 as Supervisor of Special Education, and later served as Assistant Director, and then Director, of Special Education and Pupil Services. Ms. Cantore began her career in public education as a school psychologist. While in Great Neck, she was a member of several committees, including Response to Intervention, the Emergency Response Team and the Technology and Annual Professional Performance Review. She developed and expanded programs for students with disabilities, including an internship program for students ages 18-21, an alternative high school program and an intensive needs program. Ms. Cantore holds an Advanced Certificate in Psychodynamic School Psychology, an Advanced Certificate in School Administration, a master’s degree in education and an Advanced Certificate in School Psychology. She is a member of the National Association of School Psychologists, the Association for Supervision of Curriculum Development and the Long Island Association of Special Education Administrators. She is also active in the Lions Club and is the president of a foundation established to assist families struggling with leukemia and lymphoma. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3259 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Tickets to the Newsday Marching Band Festival (We're participating on Tuesday, Oct. 18) at Hofstra University are now on sale in the Music Office. Tickets are $8.00 if purchased from the Music Office and $10.00 at the gate. Please call 897-6500 for details. A portion of the proceeds of tickets purchased through the school directly will go back to the music department. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3233 Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Girls Varsity Soccer game vs. Syosset on 10/11, the Boys Varsity Soccer game vs. Herricks on 10/14, and the Varsity Football game vs. Carey on 10/15 will all be streamed live this week on MSGVarsity.com. The Boys Soccer game will also air on MSG Varsity Channel 14 on 10/17 at 4 p.m. The Football game will air on 10/17 at 7:30 p.m. It’s a great opportunity for anyone who can't make it to the game to see all the action. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3234 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT To get students off to a solid start in the college application process, the Long Beach High School Guidance Department hosted its annual Senior Parent College Information Night. Guidance Director Patricia Hausfeld welcomed students and their parents, promising to provide answers for the two most pressing questions on everyone’s mind: “What is the next step?” and “What do I need to do to get there?” Ms. Hausfeld began by reviewing information about graduation requirements, SAT/ACT exams, college visits, upcoming college fairs, financial aid and the NCAA Clearinghouse. She also introduced parents to the 100% electronic transcript and application process that students will be using this year for the first time, facilitated through an online program called Naviance Family Connection. Students and teachers have already been introduced to the program and will receive continued support from the guidance staff to make sure all goes smoothly. Hofstra University’s Director of Admissions Sunil Samuel was the evening’s guest speaker. He helped everyone make sense of what often seems like an overwhelming and confusing process. A few choice pieces of advice that he offered were to start early, visit colleges, sample the food and observe coeds going about their daily business. “I always tell students to avoid what I call the ‘trophy school syndrome,’” he explained. “Don’t look for the college that looks best on the back window of your car. Look for the school that feels right to you.” Mr. Samuel went on to explain the pieces of the puzzle that admissions officers examine to determine which students will contribute the most to their particular college community. He touched on the high school transcript, standardized test scores, the college essay, extra-curricular activities and interviews. He also cautioned that every college is different with regard to deadlines, financial aid and evaluation of transcripts and standardized scores, and advised students to visit each school’s admissions page, or call the admissions office to ask questions. In conclusion, Mr. Samuel assured the seniors that “it will all work out in the end, if you go about it in the right way, ask the right questions and advocate for yourselves. Be aware and involved in the process.” After the presentation, Mr. Samuel, Ms. Hausfeld and the entire guidance staff stayed to answer questions and offer further reassurance. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3178 Mon, 03 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Middle School seventh graders embarked on an interdisciplinary project that is aimed at helping them develop a dedication to community service. In their English classes, students were first asked to think and write about a cause, problem or organization that they were passionate about supporting. Then, with the help of Michelle and Timmy Kelly of Earth Arts ceramics studio in Long Beach, each student created a ceramic tile depicting the cause they had chosen. Among their causes were homelessness, global warming, and the Make a Wish Foundation. To turn their thoughts into actions, students will be gathering information about their causes during social studies classes and developing plans of action to get involved. Then they will pick one or two causes to support as a group, and contact each organization to discuss ways that they can help. The idea for this project grew out of last year’s districtwide Character Education Celebration, during which all of the corridors of Long Beach Middle School were given names such as Caring Court and Peaceful Place. Students have been working under the guidance of Team 7-2 teachers Jennifer McWilliams, Megan Kalner, Ronald Destio, Tami Richards, Margaret Karthaus, Jessica Bedard and Linda Weiss, whose hallway was renamed Dedication Depot, thus giving them the inspiration for the project. The tiles will be housed in a hallway display, reminding the students to remain dedicated to their causes. Long Beach Public School students throughout the district will be participating in similar community service activities during the course of the school year as part of the district’s emphasis on promoting social-emotional learning. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3132 Sun, 25 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT In what has become a time-honored Homecoming tradition, three new honorees were inducted into the Long Beach High School Wall of Fame. Eric Foner, Steven Libutti and Thomas Parker took their place among the 118 other distinguished graduates and community members whose plaques hang in the High School commons area as an inspiration to the youth of Long Beach. Dr. Foner (Class of 1959) was on the tennis team, president of Arista and voted “Most Likely to Succeed.” After completing degrees at Columbia University and Oxford University, he went on to a distinguished teaching career at Cambridge University, City College of New York, Moscow State University, the University of London and Columbia. Among his numerous awards, he received the Presidential Award for Outstanding Teaching from Columbia University and the Kidger Award for Excellence in Teaching and Scholarship from the New England History Teachers Association. He recently won the Pulitzer Prize for History for his book entitled The Fiery Trial: Abraham Lincoln and American Slavery. Dr. Libutti (Class of 1982) was a member of the varsity soccer team, played in the jazz, concert and marching bands, and participated in the Key, DECA and Future Physicians clubs. He completed his undergraduate degree at Harvard University and went on to receive his M.D. from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. After completing his surgical residency at the Presbyterian Hospital in New York, he went on to serve at various hospitals, including the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Maryland, the Montefiore Medical Center and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. His research led to novel approaches for the treatment of cancer. He has received numerous honors for his work, including the National Cancer Institute Technology Transfer, Director’s Gold Star and Director’s Innovation Awards. Mr. Parker (Class of 1963) excelled in football and wrestling, and was selected the Varsity Football MVP in 1963. After spending two years at Wesley College, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam. During his tour of duty he received two Bronze Stars, two Purple Hearts, the Air Medal, the Combat Infantry Badge and an Army Commendation for Valor. In 1969, Mr. Parker became a Long Beach police officer and rose to the rank of detective, earning five commendations, fourteen Excellent Police Duty Awards and three Life Saving Awards. After retiring in 1990, he volunteered his time as a coach of football and baseball for the Long Beach Recreation Department. The Wall of Fame was dedicated in 1996 by the Long Beach Booster Club in cooperation with the Long Beach Public Schools to serve as an inspiration for the youth of Long Beach. “Over 1,300 students and 200 staff members pass by this wall every day,” Principal Dr. Gaurav Passi said in his address at the Wall of Fame dedication ceremony. “May it inspire them to go on to do great things like today’s honorees have done.” “I am honored to be here to celebrate your accomplishments,” said Superintendent of Schools David Weiss. “May you serve as a source of inspiration as we continue with our efforts to bring pride to our community.” “The attachment and affection of the people in Long Beach to one another is unique,” said Assemblyman Harvey Weisenberg, who helped obtain funding to create the wall. “This is a wonderful opportunity to thank and honor those whose achievements have made a difference in our lives.” Longtime friend Betty Meron spoke fondly of the accomplishments of Eric Foner. “Growing up in the 50’s in Long Beach was a time of safety, but it was a dangerous time politically. Eric’s family was plagued by McCarthyism in the 50’s, but he rose above it to become an accomplished historian and scholar like his father.” In one of the more touching moments of the ceremony, Dr. Libutti acknowledged his middle school science teacher Bruce Schneider, recalling a memorable lesson in chemistry that inspired him to pursue a career in research and medicine. School Board trustee Pat Gallagher gave an emotional tribute to his longtime friend Thomas Parker, thanking him for his many years of service to his country and his community. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3133 Sun, 25 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT The damp, rainy weather did not deter fans who filled the stands at Veterans Field to cheer the Marines on to a 34-7 Homecoming victory against Bellmore JFK. Peter Amabile had 78 rushing yards and a touchdown on three carries. Tom Rowley had 56 rushing yards and a touchdown, as well as 147 passing yards and two touchdown passes. The Homecoming Carnival, sponsored by the Student Government Organization, attracted record crowds despite the inclement weather. Volunteers from many school clubs and honor societies provided the entertainment, which included international foods, a pie toss, a wedding booth, finger painting, a photo booth and other carnival games. The inclement weather prevented the marching band from presenting their traditional halftime show, but the Varsity Cheerleading Squad braved the rain to entertain the crowd and inspire the athletes. Then members of the Long Beach Bulldogs youth football program charged across the field at lightning speed in the annual Bulldog Dash, before the football team returned to the field for the second half. The Varsity Football team will be sponsoring the Spinal Muscular Atrophy Foundation during the fall season. To support this cause, donations were collected at the gate and at the concession stand. Homecoming weekend was capped off with a ceremony on Saturday morning to induct new members to the Long Beach High School Wall of Fame. This year’s inductees were esteemed professor and historian Eric Foner (Class of 1959), renowned doctor and cancer researcher Steven Libutti (Class of 1982) and Vietnam War veteran and retired Long Beach Police Detective Thomas Parker (Class of 1963). http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3134 Sun, 25 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Unfortunately, due to inclement weather, the Marching Band and Color Guard will not be performing at the September 23rd Homecoming. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3119 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School juniors Russell Goetz and Joseph Keiserman have been selected to perform at the 2011 New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) All-State Winter Conference in Rochester, NY. Russell earned the distinction of being accepted to both the Mixed Chorus and the Vocal Jazz Ensemble. He will perform with the Vocal Jazz Ensemble. Joseph Keiserman, who plays double bass, was selected for the Symphony Orchestra. They will attend the annual All-State Conference from December 1- 4, 2011, performing at the renowned Eastman Theater under the direction of nationally prominent conductors. Seniors Annie Winerip (jazz trumpet) and Grace Smith (flute) have been selected as alternates to the All-State Ensembles. This is one of the highest honors bestowed on high school music students in New York State. Thousands of students auditioned for this honor at solo evaluation festivals held across the state last year. Russell, who is a six-time All-County musician, is the first Long Beach High School student to be selected for the All-State Vocal Jazz Ensemble. He is a member of the National Honor Society and the Tri-M Music Honor Society and performs in the high school Jazz Ensemble, Select Choir, Chorus and Wind Ensemble. He has also played leading roles in the high school drama and musical productions. Joseph is a four-time All-County musician who has played in the Long Island String Festival. He is a member of the National Honor Society and the Tri-M Music Honor Society and performs in the Select Choir, Chamber Orchestra and Concert Orchestra. He has also played leading roles in the high school drama and musical productions and will be the student director of both productions this year. Annie, who is a five-time All-County musician, performs in the Nassau Suffolk Jazz Ensemble and has traveled to Europe with the Blue Lake Jazz Orchestra. She performs in the high school’s Jazz Band, Dixieland Jazz Band, Marching Band and Pit Orchestra. A member of the National Honor Society and the Tri-M Music Honor Society, she is an AP Scholar with Honor. An accomplished athlete as well, she is a member of the Varsity Softball and Swimming teams. Grace is a two-time All-County musician who plays in the Marching Band and the Wind Ensemble. She is a member of the National Honor Society and the Tri-M Music Honor Society. She also participates in the Talented Writers Program and writes for “Fragments,” her school’s award-winning literary magazine. Adelphi University Pre-College Jazz Combo Long Beach High School junior Jesse Klirsfeld will be performing at the All-State Music Conference with the Adelphi University Pre-College Jazz Combo. Jesse is a four-time All-County musician who also plays in the High School Jazz Ensemble, Swing Band, Marching Band, Wind Ensemble and Pit Orchestra. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3101 Wed, 21 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT In what has become an annual Constitution Day tradition, a group of Long Beach High School juniors and seniors in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program visited classrooms at Lido Elementary School to teach a special lesson about the role the Constitution plays in our system of government. The high school students came armed with their advanced knowledge of U.S. History to discuss the functions of the three branches of government and the balance of power among them as ensured by the U.S. Constitution. After a brief introduction, students broke into groups to color pictures of the White House, the Capitol Building and the Supreme Court, and to complete a Constitution Day word search. While the younger children colored, the older students led them in lively discussions about the importance of the democratic system of checks and balances. This is just one of many special outreach projects that these high school students plan to accomplish throughout the year as part of the Creativity, Action and Service requirement for International Baccalaureate Diploma candidates. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3108 Wed, 21 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click here to ready the story http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3095 Tue, 20 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach Middle School eighth grader Jonathan Kapilian is one of 75 students on Long Island named a Long Island Young Scholar of Mathematics by the Institute of Creative Problem Solving for Gifted and Talented Students at SUNY College at Old Westbury, an organization that helps students pursue mathematics and science studies. To gain acceptance, Jonathan competed against 850 top-ranked students on Long Island, putting him in the top one-tenth of one percent of math students in grades 5-10. Selection criteria included a rigorous entrance exam, school transcript, teacher recommendation, student statement, and an application. The program consists of attending 20 classes held on Saturdays at Old Westbury and completing related outside assignments. The participants will broaden their backgrounds in mathematics, sharpen their thinking skills, and develop their problem-solving abilities. Educating these special children will make a major contribution to the pursuit of excellence in science and mathematics. Jonathan was nominated for this honor by Long Beach Middle School mathematics teacher and Math Olympiads coach Tara Mele, who recognized his exceptional aptitude in math. Jonathan is a member of the Middle School Math Olympiad team. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3069 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School senior Gabriella Klein received an Award of Merit in Dance from the Scholar Artist Program. The program, which is sponsored by the Long Island Alliance for the Arts in cooperation with Newsday, recognizes talented students in the fine and performing arts. She was one of only 20 Long Island students to be honored with this award. Gabriella was invited to a kickoff event at the Usdan Center for the Creative and Performing Arts, at which she and her fellow scholar artists attended a welcome reception, dinner and photo shoot. They also met with representatives from the arts programs of local colleges. She will also be honored at an end-of-the-year reception at the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts. Gabriella was nominated for this honor by Long Beach High School dance teacher Christianne Donohue. As part of the application process, Gabriella was required to submit an audition tape and write an essay about how her involvement in dance has shaped her life. “We recognize that you are dedicated to your art and that you are a very valuable asset to your school district,” said John J. Gallagher, Chairperson of the Scholar Artist Committee. “We commend you for your hard work, excellent scholarship and accomplishments.” A student of Irish step dancing for ten years, Gabriella has competed with the Hagen School of Irish Dance in five world championships, and will be competing in this year’s World Championships in Belfast, Ireland in April 2012. Gabriella has also studied modern dance in the Long Beach High School dance program, which was introduced in the fall of 2010. She is a member of the National Honor Society and National Foreign Language Honor Society, and plays first violin in the High School Chamber Orchestra. Athletically, she is a member of the Varsity Cross Country and Track and Field teams. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3056 Sun, 18 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School students joined forces with the Quiksilver Foundation to help the City of Long Beach clean up the Magnolia Street Park—a children’s playground at the boardwalk in Long Beach that was damaged by Tropical Storm Irene. The students participated in this cleanup as a living memorial to their Surf Club coach, teacher and local environmentalist, Daniel Bobis, who died this summer in a tragic surfing accident off the coast of Indonesia. Long Beach High School Surf Team members and students in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program teamed up with city and school district officials and representatives of the Quiksilver Foundation to shovel mounds of sand and remove debris, making short work of the cleanup job. World Champion surfer Kelly Slater and local legend Balaram Stack also dropped in to help out. Both were in town for the Quiksilver Pro New York Competition, which took place in Long Beach on September 1-11. Students worked under the direction of IB Coordinator Dr. Andrew Smith and Surf Team coaches Anthony Balsamo, Rich Rogers and Daniel’s wife, Rachel Bobis. All are Long Beach teachers, and all share a special bond as his close friends and surfing companions. “Giving back to the community has always been important to me, and it was important to Danny as well,” said Ms. Bobis. “ As coaches of the LBHS Surf Team, our goal is not only to teach the students about surfing but also about caring and contributing to our community and taking care of our environment. I am so proud of the team and how they have risen above such a great loss to follow in Danny's footsteps, as I strive each day to do as well.” While the Quiksilver Pro New York Competition has been in Long Beach, the Surf Club also received VIP passes to the qualifying rounds, surfed with some of the pros, and participated in a 9/11 Memorial Paddle Out. (PHOTOS: Courtesy of Joley Welkowitz) http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3045 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School Surf Club members joined forces with over 300 local surfers, firefighters, police, lifeguards, Quiksilver Pro surfers, and members of the military for the O’Keefe Foundation’s Annual 9/11 Memorial Paddle Out to honor those lost on that tragic day. After a memorial mass and service, the participants lined the shore with surfboards in hand. Long Beach lifeguards placed a memorial wreath on a surfboard, as all the participants paddled out on the ocean together to form a memorial circle. All the participants wore black armbands emblazoned with the names of victims of the 9/11 attack. Long Beach High School social studies students had made these armbands earlier in the week as part of a joint venture with the Quiksilver Foundation. This was one of several cooperative activities between Long Beach High School students and the Quiksilver Foundation that took place while the Quiksilver Pro New York Competition was in town. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3046 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that there will be a meeting of the Board of Education on Tuesday, September 27th, 2011, at 6:00 PM in the conference room of the Administration Building, 235 Lido Boulevard, Lido Beach, New York. It is anticipated that the Board will then vote to go into an executive session to discuss personnel issues regarding specific personnel and pending and proposed legal matters. The Board will reconvene for a Work Session at 7:30 PM in the auditorium of the Long Beach Middle School. There will be a presentation of the APPR – Annual Professional Performance Review. The Agenda For This Meeting Is Available For Review http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2988 Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT In conjunction with the Quiksilver Pro New York Competition, Olympic snowboarder Torah Bright paid a visit to Long Beach High School to speak with physical education classes about her experiences. She told students how she developed her love for snowboarding as a 12-year-old in the mountains of Australia. Since then she has spent most of her life traveling the world to practice and compete. Students asked her what life was like in Australia, how many times she was injured practicing this extreme sport, and what it felt like to win the Olympic Gold Medal in Calgary. “When I crossed that green line, it was a feeling of total relief,” said Ms. Bright. “I had suffered three concussions, so I spent more time off the snow than on before the Olympics. That experience taught me how important it is to be mentally strong as well as physically strong. I am always in competition with myself. It was exciting to know that my personal best happened to be the best in the world that day.” Ms. Bright emphasized the importance of hard work and effort it takes to be successful. When asked to put a number on it, she said that her success was 99% effort and 1% talent. At the end of her presentation, Ms. Bright stayed to chat with students and sign autographs before heading back to the festivities at the Quiksilver Pro New York Competition. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3027 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT In cooperation with the Quiksilver Foundation, Long Beach High School social studies students did their part to commemorate 9/11 by making more than 300 black armbands decorated with the names of people who lost their lives on that tragic day. The armbands were worn by Long Beach High School Surf Club members, Quiksilver Pro competitors, firefighters, police, lifeguards and military as they took part in the Annual O’Keefe Foundation 9/11 Memorial Paddle Out on Sunday morning at the Long Beach Ocean Park. More than 300 people took part in this event honoring the victims and heroes of 9/11. Long Beach Public School students throughout the district will be participating in similar community service activities during the course of the school year as part of the district’s emphasis on promoting social-emotional learning. The Quiksilver Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to benefiting and enhancing the quality of life for communities of board riders across the world by supporting environmental, educational, health and youth-related projects. The foundation teamed up with Long Beach High School students on other local community service projects—including a cleanup of the Magnolia Street Playground—during the Quiksilver Pro New York competition, which was held in Long Beach on September 1-15. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3029 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School Homecoming will take place on Friday, September 23, 2011, with the Marines facing off against Bellmore JFK. Festivities will begin with a carnival at the Middle School gymnasium beginning at 6:30 p.m., featuring food, games and activities for children of all ages. Game kick-off is 7:30 p.m. at Veterans Field at Long Beach Middle School. The weekend’s festivities will be capped off on Saturday, September 24 with the Wall of Fame Induction Ceremony at 10:00 a.m. at Long Beach High School. This year’s honorees are Eric Foner, Steve Libutti and Thomas J. Parker. All are welcome to attend. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=3017 Sun, 11 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT The wet weather did nothing to dampen the spirits of students and teachers on the first day of classes in Long Beach Public Schools. As the new school year begins, the district’s focus will be to continue to challenge all students to reach their true potential, integrate technology to enhance classroom instruction, promote social emotional learning, encourage communication with parents and continue to improve facilities. In grades K-12 there will be a continued emphasis on literacy instruction, writing and math, using proven programs such as Read 180 and enVision Math, supported by the use of data-driven instruction. Technology-based initiatives using SmartBoards, computers and web-based tools will be integrated into classroom instruction to further enhance learning. At the High School, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program will continue to expand, with 21 IB Diploma candidates in grade 12 and an additional 53 students entering the diploma program this year. International Baccalaureate courses in business and management, social and cultural anthropology, dance and math studies are among the new high school course offerings. An area of emphasis this year will be on increasing communication with parents. One of the tools that will be utilized will be the newly redesigned district website, www.lbeach.org, which officially launched on August 30. Reading and writing assessments will also be shared with parents. Over the summer, work began on the new additions at the Lido Complex and the High School, while renovation projects continued at East, West and Lindell Schools. The high school pool reopened in July after the installation of a new energy efficient and environmentally friendly filtration system was completed. The facilities and maintenance staff, under the direction of Chief Operating Officer Michael DeVito, did their best to ensure that all the buildings would be ready for the start of school. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2991 Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Columbia Scholastic Press Association awarded the editors of Long Beach High School’s literary magazine, “Fragments,” a gold medal in its 2011 national competition. This is the second year in a row that “Fragments” received a gold medal in this prestigious competition, under the leadership of editors-in-chief Ben Weiss and Sophie Corwin and editors Jane Smyth, Eileen Kelly and Emily Charleson. These students edit and write for “Fragments” as part of the High School’s Talented Writers program, taught by Rachell Koegel. Over the years, “Fragments” writers, editors and artists have consistently won top awards at national and state competitions for their work. They are still awaiting results from other contests that will be announced in October and November. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2996 Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Pursue your interest in art, cooking, dance, investments, foreign language, Feng Shui, health and fitness, sports, hobbies and crafts, careers or self-improvement through the Long Beach Public Schools Adult Education program. Learn defensive driving or public speaking techniques, review for SAT and GED exams, or become a citizen. A brochure listing fall course offerings was mailed to all households in the Long Beach School District, and is available at theContinuing Education Website. Classes begin the week of October 3. In-person registration will take place on Monday, September 19 and Wednesday, September 21 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. at the Long Beach Middle School Cafeteria. Completed registration forms may also be mailed to the Adult Education Office. Early mail registration is recommended. Senior citizen discounts are offered for many courses. For more information, email conted@optonline.net or call 516-897-2206. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2997 Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School is pleased to announce that 18 twelfth graders were able to complete the requirements for graduation during the summer school session, bringing the 2011 graduation rate to 95% - a ten-year high for the school. A total of 346 students sat for at least one Regents exam. A total of 87% of all students who took the English Regents passed. The only students who did fail did not come to summer school or attend any of the scheduled review sessions. The passing rate in the Global History August Regents increased from 39% in 2010 to 85% in 2011. The passing rate in Living Environment increased from 50% to 61%. “The increase in both attendance and success rates is due in large part to an increased focus on the at-risk student population,” explained Summer School Principal Dr. Andrew Smith during a presentation at the August 30th Board of Education Meeting. “The overall goal was not simply to get students to take the exams, but to have them be successful.” Over the past few years, Long Beach Summer School has been striving to re-envision summer school as a place to improve student learning well beyond the six-week program. Summer school now provides students with a way of extending their learning, gaining necessary credit, and receiving effective intervention and enrichment opportunities. “The ultimate goal is to help students change their behaviors to become more interested, invested and involved in school,” said Dr. Smith. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2953 Mon, 05 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that there was a meeting of the Board of Education on Tuesday, August 30th, 2011, at 4:30 PM in the conference room of the Administration Building, 235 Lido Boulevard, Lido Beach, New York. It was anticipated that the Board would vote to go into an executive session to discuss personnel issues regarding specific personnel and pending and proposed legal matters. The Board reconvened for a regular meeting at 7:30 PM in the auditorium of the Long Beach Middle School, 239 Lido Boulevard, Lido Beach. View The Agenda from this meeting. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2926 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Summer School program provides a structured environment for the most at-risk students in grades 6-12 to extend their learning, gain necessary credit, and receive effective intervention and enrichment opportunities. Over the past five years, the emphasis on high standards for achievement has led to better instruction, higher student passing rates and less disciplinary issues. In addition to offering students the opportunity for a second chance to obtain class credit, the program also strives to help students learn how to be more responsible and engaged learners. The program focuses on providing additional structure and personal attention to help students develop positive academic habits. The small group setting allows the staff to connect with students on a more direct and personal level, providing an atmosphere that fosters learning. Because teachers are able to work so closely with students, discipline is rarely an issue. To encourage further support for students, teachers and administrators maintain close and frequent contact with parents. “Over the past few years, Long Beach Summer School has strived to re-envision summer school as a place to improve student learning well beyond the six-week program,” said Summer School Principal Dr. Andrew Smith. “The ultimate goal is to help students change their behaviors to become more interested, invested and involved in school.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2893 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Public Schools Extended School Year Program for Students with Disabilities provides students in grades K-12 with a rich blend of recreation, enrichment and practical learning activities that help them maintain the skills they acquired over the course of the traditional school year. In addition to their regular classroom activities, students have taken trips to Waldbaums, Adventureland, Baldwin Bowl, Marvel Ice Cream, the Long Beach Movie Theater and the Long Island Children’s Museum. They were also able to participate in dance and cooking classes, as well as swim sessions at the high school pool. Students were also given a unique experience to participate in a program called Surf for All, held at the Long Beach Ocean Beach Park. With the aid of specially trained surf instructors, the students have been setting off on longboards to ride the waves and experience the healing powers of the ocean, as their families and teachers cheer them on. In addition to having fun, the children who participate in the program experience multiple educational benefits. Surfing helps them take a step toward independence, challenging them to overcome fears, build trust, establish relationships, enhance gross motor skills and listen to directions—many of the same skills they develop every day during their regular classroom instruction. Surf for All is a local not-for-profit organization launched by brothers Cliff and Will Skudin and Long Beach resident Jim Mulvaney to help people with special needs, ranging from autism to diabetes, through surfing. “We are pleased to be able to provide our students with many enriching summer activities, while giving them a fun way to practice and maintain all the skills they learned during the school year,” said Dr. Mary Tatem, the district’s Director of Special Education and Pupil Personnel Services. “We are especially grateful to the Skudins, who have been volunteering their time and talent to the children in our Special Education Summer Program for three years now. It has been a phenomenal experience for our students and their families.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2894 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School students Arianne Papa and Jane Smyth had their joint research published in the Summer 2011 issue of Clear Waters Magazine, a publication of the New York Water Environment Association. As an added honor, one of the photos they submitted with their paper appeared on the cover of the magazine. The article, entitled “Mussels, a Natural Approach to Sewage Treatment: Evaluating Geukensia demissa as Biofilters of Local Bay Pollution,” can be viewed at http://nywea.org/clearwaters/11-2-Summer/. Arianne and Jane developed their research in the Long Beach High School Science Research Program. During the 2010-2011 school year, the duo earned numerous awards for this same research, including a Second Place Grand Award at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair and a gold medal at the I-SWEEEP international science competition. They also qualified to represent New York State at the national level of the Stockholm Junior Water Prize competition. They spent the summer in the Simons Research Fellowship Program at Stony Brook University, working on the Western Bays Project to reduce pollution in Nassau’s marshlands. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2885 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT Superintendent David Weiss invites residents to meet with him in small informal groups. To host or attend an outreach meeting, call 516-897-2104. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2866 Tue, 09 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT The district bids a fond farewell to this year’s retirees, some of whom who have dedicated their entire careers to serving the children of Long Beach. ADMINISTRATORS Dr. Robert Greenberg Dr. Robert Greenberg came to Long Beach seven years ago as a superintendent with a vision, leading the district on a path to greater fiscal health, rallying community support to address the needs of aging facilities, and raising expectations and support for academic achievement for all. He retired in June, leaving the district with a Moody’s A-1 rating, a Capital Improvement Plan in full swing, and an ever-increasing number of students pushing their academic boundaries through the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, Advanced Placement and other college-level courses. Harry Witkin Harry Witkin began his Long Beach career as a student teacher in 1974, realizing that he had a passion not only for teaching mathematics, but for Long Beach as well. Generations of Long Beach graduates remember him fondly as the man who opened their minds to the wonders of everything from general math to AP Calculus. He spent 27 years as a classroom teacher, six years as the chair of the high school mathematic department and three years as the k-12 Director of Mathematics. He was also a respected coach of track, lacrosse and football. He leaves the district with these parting words: “Enjoy what you do. We really do make a difference!” Michel Richez Mike Richez began his career with the district as a substitute teacher in 1976, and became a full-time reading teacher in 1978. In 1999, he was appointed as the Director of Technology, leading the district into the 21st century with the introduction of over 2,000 connected computers, laptops, and peripherals, and more than 225 SmartBoards. Through over 30 years of service, he supported children and staff with kindness, dignity and honesty. Carolyn Cuttler Carolyn Cuttler joined the district in 1976 as a high school business education teacher. She left in 1982 to become the Coordinator of Legal Studies at SUNY Farmingdale, returning to the high school in 1995 as a guidance counselor. She was appointed Guidance Chairperson in 1998, and most recently served as the District Director of K-12 Guidance. Mrs. Cuttler has been described as the “Soul of Long Beach High School,” guiding students and parents safely through their journey to college with endless energy, dedication and wisdom. Ronni Reimel During her 16-year tenure as Principal of East School, Ronni Reimel knew every child and parent who passed through her building by name. She has always inspired those around her to treat students as they would treat their own children and grandchildren. She wove a beautiful tapestry of education and love as she led her staff members in the challenge to teach and reach every child. This fall she will be on safari in South Africa with her husband. She plans to continue working as an Adjunct Professor, but her staff believes she could be a very successful stand up comic! Teachers Susan Bedell, East School Teacher (22 years) Irma Camacho, Lindell Teacher (22 years) Frances Daddona, Lindell Teacher (21 years) Robert Epstein, High School English Teacher (35 years) Bruce Kaplan, High School Chorus Teacher (38 years) Crecensio Morales, High School Guidance Counselor (23 years) Jacqueline Scher, Middle School Orchestra Teacher (21 years) Susan Weinstock, Lindell Library Media Specialist (29 years) Support Staff William Backe, District Duplicating Machine Operator (30 years) Catherine Kenahan, Middle School Secretary (21 years) Annice Wilder, Bus Driver (26 years) Esther Young, Bus Driver (6 years) http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2867 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Board of Education has officially appointed Theresa Taplin as Vice Principal of Long Beach Middle School, effective July 20. She will fill the position left by Dr. Michele Natali, who took on the role of Principal of the Middle School on July 1. She will be working side by side with Vice Principal Keith Biesma. Ms. Taplin comes to Long Beach from the Rockville Centre Union Free School District, where she most recently served as Mathematics Facilitator at South Side Middle School and Summer Program Principal for the district’s various summer programs for children ages 4-18. She began teaching math at South Side Middle School in 1990. Considered a leader in mathematics acceleration, she has edited integrated algebra textbooks, and also facilitated the writing, editing and creating of the Integrated Algebra Regents for the State of New York. Ms. Taplin holds a Certificate of Advanced Studies in School Administration from Hofstra University and a Master of Science in Secondary Education in Mathematics from Long Island University/C.W. Post College. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2837 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for More Information http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2838 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT At the July 19th meeting of the Long Beach Board of Education, board members officially appointed Dr. Timothy J. Piciullo to serve as Vice Principal of Long Beach High School, effective July 20. He replaces Cheriese Pemberton, who became the District Director of Mathematics on July 1. As the newest member of the High School administrative team, he will be working closely with Principal Dr. Gaurav Passi and fellow Vice Principals John Emmons and Thomas DePaola. Having served previously as Principal of Wantagh Middle School, Assistant Principal of Hauppauge High School and Dean of Students at Bellport High School, Dr. Piciullo is an expert in middle to high school transition issues. He has also had extensive experience in all areas of instructional leadership, student management, discipline and building administration. Dr. Piciullo started his career in education in September 2002 as a middle school technology teacher in Patchogue-Medford Public Schools. He later went on to teach middle and high school technology and business classes for Islip Public Schools. Dr. Piciullo holds a doctorate in education, educational administration and technology, as well as a master’s degree in secondary education business, both from Dowling College. He received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Information Technology from Briarcliffe College. “I am honored to join the Long Beach educational community, “ said Dr. Piciullo. “I am looking forward to working along with the students, staff, and parents to help ensure a successful school year.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2836 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT Jack Cruse-Mulhall, a fifth grader at Lido Elementary School in the Long Beach School District, recently delivered the WPIX Channel 11 weather forecast as the "Friday Forecaster!” “He began fifth grade with a small case of nerves for public speaking. You would never know by watching the video,” said his teacher Deborah Cupani. "Jack was great! He was so natural. I’m so happy to hear he had fun, he was a hit around here!" said Segment Producer Kate Sullivan. Jack received this honor through his great uncle Jim Monahan, president of CURB (Citizens United to Remove Barriers), who won a spot on the show by bidding for it at a fundraiser for Long Beach REACH, an organization that provides community services to those in need on Long Island. To see Jack’s Friday Forecaster segment, visit: http://www.wpix.com/videobeta/0db65fba-ab97-4fa5-8e89-9d7ae9793c77 http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2835 Sun, 24 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County has selected Long Beach High School freshman Shannon Sondergaard as the recipient of the first annual Nassau County Friedlander Upstander Award for her efforts to end racism and bullying. Having been chosen from a pool of 50 applicants, she was presented with a $2,500 scholarship award, given by the Claire Friedlander Family Foundation via the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County. Shannon is a founding member of Long Beach High School’s Anti-Bullying Club (The ABC), a group of nearly 30 students dedicated to finding ways to resolve bullying in schools. She and her fellow club members were key presenters at the Long Island Youth Safety Coalition Internet Safety and Bullying Prevention Conference at Hofstra University on March 29. Club members created an Anti-Bullying Pledge, which was signed by them and many of their classmates. They have also made presentations to their younger peers at Long Beach Middle School, dramatizing how important it is to stand up to bullies, instead of being a witness to bullying who does nothing. “We nominated Shannon for this award because she is a true upstander,” said ABC co-advisor Jaclyn Gallinaro, who supervises the club with Phil Bruno. “One of her friends was being bullied online, and rather than sit by, Shannon told the students who were writing negative comments to stop…and they did. We felt that she should be praised for her independent spirit and courage.” The mission of the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County is to teach the history of the Holocaust and its lessons through education and community outreach. The organization teaches about the dangers of anti-Semitism, racism, bullying and all other manifestations of intolerance. It also promotes resistance to prejudice and advocates respect for every human being. “Ms. Sondergaard embodies our mission and exemplifies all that we teach in our education programs,” said Sarah M. Cushman, Ph.D., Director of Youth Education for the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2811 Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT Kelsey McLaughlin, who will be entering her senior year at Long Beach High School, has been named an All-State Softball player. The Varsity shortstop had a batting average of .375, with five home runs and 14 RBIs. This is Kelsey’s fourth year as a Varsity starter. She is a two-time All-County player. Kelsey, who is also an honor roll student, has committed to play softball for C.W. Post in September 2012. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2800 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT At its annual reorganization meeting, the Long Beach Board of Education appointed two members to the Board and elected its officers for the 2011-2012 school year. Incumbents Dr. Dennis Ryan and Patrick Gallagher were officially reappointed. Members unanimously reelected Dr. Ryan to serve as President of the Board. Roy Lester was then unanimously elected to serve as Vice President. An oath of office was officially administered to Superintendent of Schools David Weiss, whose first official day with the district was July 1, 2011. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2794 Sun, 10 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School Vice Principal John Emmons had a dream to convert his 2004 Ford F250 diesel engine to run on waste vegetable oil. When he shared his idea with technology teacher Jim Johnsen, Mr. Johnsen decided it would make a great project for his automotive class. They purchased the conversion kit from a manufacturer in Iowa named Biofuels Technologies. After completing the conversion, students staged a successful test run of the engine on the last day of classes. In addition to giving the students a chance to practice their automotive shop skills, the project also gave them an opportunity to make a local contribution to helping the environment. Vegetable oil is much cleaner than diesel, giving off almost no sulfur. Another green aspect of this project is that Mr. Emmons will be recycling waste oil that that would normally have to be thrown out by restaurants. Although the car can still run on diesel fuel, Mr. Emmons hopes to secure local restaurant owners who would be willing to give him waste vegetable oil, which he can then filter and use as his primary fuel. To put the truck through its paces, he is planning a road trip down to Alabama this summer, using 100 percent waste vegetable oil to fuel the truck. During the course of the year, Mr. Johnsen’s students have been working on equally challenging projects, such as restoring a classic Lotus racecar and rebuilding the engine on a junked 1969 BSA motorcycle. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2793 Sat, 09 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT As part of Long Beach Public Schools Character Counts! program, seventh graders in Long Beach Middle School’s Team 7-1 participated in a beach cleanup at the Long Beach Ocean Beach Park. Students swept the beach from Neptune to New York Avenue, collecting anything that wasn’t natural to the beach environment. Before students arrived at the beach, they viewed a video about pollution, to give them an idea of how plastic bags and other waste material harm animals that live in our waters. A scavenger hunt for specific items gave students extra incentive to comb the beach. Their goal was to collect 100 bags of garbage. Students were joined by some special guests. Erin McKeon, a veteran of the war in Iraq who was a guest lecturer at the Middle School Veterans Day Celebration in November, was happy to volunteer alongside the students. They were also joined by former Long Beach resident Adam Kohn and his daughter, who had just arrived from Colorado to visit his parents. When they saw the beach cleanup in progress, they grabbed a bag and joined in. To get students off to a good start, a breakfast of bagels and juice was donated by Nassau County Legislator Denise Ford in recognition of their good citizenship as stewards of our beach and ocean waters. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2777 Mon, 04 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT A special exhibit of art created by students in the Long Beach Middle School Studio in Art program adorned the lobby of Long Beach City Hall for a limited engagement showing June 3-9. Students must submit a portfolio to be admitted this advanced art course for eighth graders. They attend class five day a week and earn high school credit for the course, enabling them to continue to the Advanced Studio in Art class in their first year of high school. Eighth-grade Studio in Art classes are taught by Laura Swan and Scott Knyper. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2779 Mon, 04 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the annually required Reorganization Meeting of the Board of Education of Long Beach Public Schools will take place on Tuesday, July 5, 2011 at 5:00 P.M. in the Long Beach Middle School auditorium, 239 Lido Boulevard, Lido Beach, New York. A regular meeting will immediately follow the Reorganization Meeting. It is anticipated that the Board will vote to go into an executive session to discuss personnel issues regarding specific personnel at 6:30 PM in the conference room of the Administration Building, 235 Lido Boulevard, Lido Beach, New York. Carole Butler, District Clerk Dennis Ryan, Ph.D., Board President http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2772 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT The crowd rose to its feet as the Long Beach High School Wind Ensemble struck the first chords of “Pomp and Circumstance,” signaling the start of the school’s 88th Annual Commencement Ceremony. The graduates of the Class of 2011 proceeded down the aisle escorted by administrators, members of the Board of Education and teachers, as well as the elementary school principals with whom they began their educational journey over a decade ago. Principal Dr. Gaurav Passi began his welcome speech by acknowledging the work and careers of some noted retirees, including Superintendent of Schools Dr. Robert Greenberg, Director of Mathematics Harry Witkin, Director of Technology Michel Richez and Director of Guidance Carolyn Cuttler. He then took a moment to welcome incoming Superintendent of Schools David Weiss, who is also the proud father of graduating senior Ben Weiss. It was an especially proud moment for Dr. Passi, since this day marked the completion of his first year as principal. “This class will always hold a very special place in my heart,” he said. “My life has been enriched because of our shared experience. Today is the beginning of a journey, not the end of a road. It is my hope as you leave here that you continue on the path of success. You should always remember that greatness lies within each of you. You are our future, and you are the promise for a better world.” Next, Student Council President Marvin McMoore invited Dr. Greenberg to the stage to present him with a Long Beach High School diploma, making him an honorary member of the Class of 2011. “A leader takes people where they want to go. A great leader takes people where they don't necessarily want to go, but ought to be,” Marvin began, quoting the words of Rosalynn Carter. “You have been a great leader for our district, providing the tools for all students to achieve their true potential with the introduction of self-selection for honors and AP courses, the end of class ranking and the introduction of the International Baccalaureate Program. This year’s graduating class will be attending some of the most prestigious schools in the country. On behalf of the Class of 2011, I thank you for all you have done.” “I am virtually speechless,” began Dr. Greenberg, who was visibly moved by the presentation, before he moved on to deliver his address. “We as baby boomers had aspirations to make the world a better and safer place, where everyone would have access to the same economic and educational opportunities. My prayer is that you will do a better job than we did to move the world in that direction. It is my belief that everyone, given the opportunity, can achieve. We are struggling with providing some of those opportunities here in Long Beach. As I leave this district, I will be relying on Mr. Weiss to continue the journey that we have begun,” he said, referring to incoming Superintendent David Weiss. Dr. Greenberg closed with a quote from Dr. Martin Luther King. “‘On some positions, Cowardice asks the question "Is it safe?" Expediency asks the question "Is it politic?" And Vanity comes along and asks the question "Is it popular?" But Conscience asks the question "Is it right?" And there comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but he must do it because Conscience tells him it is right.’” he said. “I always tried to live by those words. Hopefully I have succeeded.” For her salutatory address, Sophia Xu, who is an accomplished pianist, descended from the stage to take her place at the piano, taking the audience on a musical journey representing each graduate’s journey into adulthood. “If we close our eyes and imagine the time when we learned our first words, it sounds like this,” she began, playing a measure of Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star. “Before we realized it, we were already walking while speaking in sentences,” she continued, playing an excerpt from the original Mozart variations of Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star. She continued tracing their journey through the teenage years, hitting an obvious wrong note. “At these embarrassing moments we often felt trapped in disappointment,” she continued, “but without them, we would have never grown and matured.” She characterized their sometimes-frenzied college search with an excerpt from Beethoven’s Sonata Appassionata, Movement No. 3. “Despite all of the obstacles, at this moment it all seems worthwhile. But we shouldn’t get excited too quickly, because although high school ends, learning is truly a lifetime process,” she concluded, playing a final excerpt from Chopin’s Revolutionary Etude. Board of Education President Dr. Dennis Ryan left the graduates with three pieces of advice. “Log off, continue learning and serve your community,” he said. He concluded by thanking the community for supporting public education in Long Beach. “A new reality is beginning for all of us, one of promise and responsibility and of fear and novelty,” began Jordan Ochs in his valedictory address. “It is a time for our dreams and ambitions to be pursued wholeheartedly. It is a time for us to find our won paths to happiness and to dedicate ourselves to following them to the end. We all have a lifetime ahead of us to create something: a name, a set of morals, a family. It’s how we hand the unknown challenges of the future that will help us establish an identity, a purpose. This is how we succeed.” The Wind Ensemble dedicated a special piece entitled “Quiet Courage” to the Class of 2011, which was accompanied by an original poem by the same title, written and recited by junior Arianne Papa. During the presentation of the diplomas, incoming Superintendent David Weiss was invited to the stage to present his son Ben with his diploma, delivered with a heartfelt hug. After the last diploma was distributed, Senior Class President Melissa Midonek closed the ceremony with her recitation of Edgar Guest’s poem, “It Couldn’t Be Done.” As Melissa completed the last verse of the poem, the proud graduates moved their tassels from left to right, tossed their caps in the air, and completed their recessional march to a round of thunderous applause. In addition to the graduation program, guests this year received a booklet commemorating the achievements of Long Beach High School students throughout the year. Among their ranks, the Long Beach High School Class of 2011 counts one National Merit Commended Student, one National Merit Hispanic Scholar, 15 AP Scholars, one All-State Musician, 16 All-County Musicians, a delegate to the Senate Youth Program and two award-winning film producers. In the field of science, four seniors earned medals at international science competitions. Four seniors won awards for their writing in state and national competitions. In sports, four senior athletes won state honors, with two all-state athletes, a state championship winner and a state qualifier named. One student was named the Nassau County Soccer Scholar-Athlete of the Year. A full 92% of the June graduates received a Regents Diploma or better, with 38% completing the requirements for a Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation. A total of 96% of this year’s graduates are going on to two or four-year colleges. Click here to view more pictures http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2769 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Morning Madness After-Prom Party Celebrates 20th Anniversary For the past 20 years, the Long Beach High School PTSA Morning Madness Committee has worked tirelessly with the Long Beach School District to ensure that seniors and their dates will have an evening full of unforgettable memories, whether they attend the prom or not--and that their parents will rest easy, knowing that they will be safe. Beginning with a mandatory pre-prom meeting and ending with the substance-free “all night” Morning Madness Post-Prom Party, the district has partnered with the PTSA to create a safe and memorable evening for students and their dates. The Morning Madness Committee, which is co-chaired by Gina Knauer, Randi Andosca, Linda Birnbaum, Rhonda Healy, Betsy Glazer and Committee Chairs Emeritus Darlene Tangney and Maria Martin, works throughout the year to raise enough funds to treat all graduating seniors and their dates to an early morning post-prom party, complete with food, games, entertainment and prizes. This year, approximately 300 seniors made their way to Dave and Buster’s after the prom to enjoy the festivities. The district provided free bus transportation for seniors who did not attend the prom, so that they could join their classmates for the Morning Madness festivities. Every senior present was given the opportunity to spin the Scholarship Wheel to win a cash prize of $50 to $250. The luckiest of all the evening’s winners were Brette Wayne, who walked away with the keys to a shiny new 2011 Nissan Altima, and Damaris Swass, who won a Dell Netbook computer. In order to be eligible for the grand prizes, teens had to be in attendance for a special drawing at the end of the evening. This provided an especially powerful incentive for attendees to stay the entire evening. Legend Nissan of Syosset provided the car at cost, and even upgraded from a Sentra to an Altima at no additional charge when the Sentra was not available due to production delays in Japan. The Netbook was donated by Dell. “I will always be grateful for the overwhelming support from our community, parents, staff, and administration at the Long Beach Schools,” said Committee Chair Emeritus Darlene Tangney. “Thanks to this joint effort, we have been able to make this another successful, safe and rewarding post-prom experience for everyone.” “Let’s hope, through the community’s ongoing support, and the participation of younger, more involved parents, we can continue to host this event for at least another 20 years, ” added Co-Chair Emeritus Maria Martin. "One of the greatest concerns the Morning Madness committee has is raising enough funds every year to host this special event, especially with the current state of the economy,” said Co-Chair Randi Andosca. Anyone wishing to donate funds to this worthy cause for the future may do so at www.razoo.com/story/Long-Beach-High-School-Ptsa. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2744 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT BOE Vice President Presents Commemorating Class of ‘41 At Lindell Elementary School’s 2011 moving-up ceremony, Long Beach Board Vice President Patrick Gallagher paid tribute not just to the students, staff and families, but also to the Lindell School building itself, when he presented a carefully researched, printed, matted and framed historical wall hanging. The wall hanging commemorated the Class of 1941, the first class to graduate from the building 70 years ago, back when it served as the Long Beach Junior Senior High School. The building was constructed in 1939. The timing of the presentation was especially significant since renovations on the building’s exterior and interior were just completed in the 2010-2011 school year, restoring it to its former glory. Lindell is the first building to be refurbished as part of the districtwide School Preservation Plan. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2743 Sat, 25 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach High School sports season ended on a festive note as players, coaches and parents gathered to celebrate team camaraderie and accomplishments at Spring Sports Awards Night. One of the traditional highlights of the program is the presentation of special awards for senior athletes. Dozens of seniors received recognition for their scholarship, leadership, athletic achievements and citizenship. Among the most notable were the U.S. Army National Scholar Athlete Award given to Jordan Ochs, Ben Weiss and Megan Cabasino and the U.S. Marines Distinguished Athlete Award given to Jackie Demerest and Nate Barksdale. There were many team and individual accomplishments to celebrate. The Girls Badminton team, under the direction of Coach Andrew Rossi, clinched the Conference Championship title for the second year in a row, with 11 girls earning All-Conference honors. The Girls Lacrosse team, under the leadership of Coach Rachel Ray, also earned a Conference Championship Title. Individual honors were earned by one All-County, one Honorable Mention All-County, and three All-Conference players. Under the guidance of Coach Greg Milone, the Boys Track team earned the Division Championship title - the team’s first division championship in over 30 years. County Champion Joshua Trone went on to win the NYS Track Championship in the 100m dash, finishing first in all divisions in the state with a time of 10.84 seconds and setting a new school record. All-County sprinter Jaymen Teemer qualified for States with a time of 22.5. In all spring sports, there was named one State Champion, one State Qualifier, one County Champion, six All-County athletes, two All-County Honorable Mention athletes, twenty All-Conference players, thirteen All-Division players and one All-League player. In addition, the Girls Badminton, Boys Golf, Girls Golf, Boys Lacrosse, Girls Lacrosse, Softball, Boys Tennis, Boys Track and Field and Girls Track and Field teams all earned Scholar-Athlete status, with team averages of 90 or better. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2705 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT When they discovered that a recent storm had downed a beloved old weeping willow tree on the school campus, students in the LBHS International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program decided to plant a new tree to replace it on the east campus of the school. Students dubbed the tree, planted during the last week of classes, the Tree of Knowledge. The tree will commemorate the initiation of the Long Beach IB Program, which will graduate its first diploma candidates in June 2012. “I was saddened by the thought that a tree that had witnessed so much history had been destroyed,” said junior Olivia Deschler, who initiated the idea for the tree planting ceremony with fellow IB scholar Emily Charleson. “Emily and I thought it was only natural that we, the first class of IB diploma candidates, leave our mark on the school. The Tree of Knowledge is a symbol of the first roots of the IB Program planted here by the Class of 2012.” “The tree truly represents the IB Program and how Long Beach is turning over a new leaf by accepting this prestigious program,” added Emily. “As the first class to complete this program at Long Beach High School, we are planting the seeds of new ideas, allowing the tree’s rings to hold memories just like the old tree did.” All of the other 2012 IB diploma candidates stood alongside Olivia and Emily as they marked this special occasion in their shared history. At the close of the ceremony, each of the students threw a ceremonial shovel of dirt to symbolize their unity and solidarity. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2706 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach Varsity Track star Joshua Trone won the NYS Track Championship in the 100 m dash, at the state competition held on June 10-11 at Caledonia Mumford High School in Caledonia, NY. He finished first in all divisions in the state with a time of 10.84 seconds, beating out runners in Division 1, Division 2, Catholic schools and New York City schools. This was Josh’s best performance of the season, setting a new school record. Under the guidance of Coach Greg Milone, the Boys Track team earned the Division Championship title - the team’s first division championship in over 30 years. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2707 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Lindell School finished first in the county in a math contest sponsored by Sumdog.com, with the help of Nassau BOCES. Twenty-three schools participated in the contest, which was open to all elementary, middle, and junior high schools in Nassau County. To participate in the contest, students logged onto Sumdog.com to play games that tested multiplication and division facts, rounding, adding, subtracting and other math skills. Students earned one point for each correct answer. Additionally, seven of the top ten students in all of Nassau County were from Lindell School. Lindell School will receive a Motorola Xoom tablet and sports equipment as the school prize. The individual winners will each receive $25 iTunes gift cards. Lindell School accumulated a combined student score of 5,587, over 1,000 points higher than the second-place school. Brett Weiner was the top scoring individual in Nassau County. Harrison Phillips finished second, Samuel Oppenheim was fifth, Lou Hakin was sixth, Emma Pfaff was eighth, Jayla Coad finished ninth, and Dean Mauro was tenth. In addition, the top ten Lindell finishers in each grade will receive free treats compliments of Baskin Robbins, Tutti Frutti and McDonald’s of Long Beach. “All of the Lindell students, parents and staff were so excited about the contest, and we are so proud of our school,” said math teacher Kelly Beleckas. “We also appreciate the generosity of the local merchants who recognized our students for their success.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2714 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Board of Education has approved the appointment of Dr. Michele Natali as Principal of Long Beach Middle School, effective July 1, 2011. She replaces Audrey Goropeuschek, who resigned to pursue other interests. Dr. Natali has served as Vice Principal of Long Beach Middle School since July of 2007. During her tenure as Vice Principal, she was instrumental in restructuring the NYS assessment process, aligning it with brain research. She has also enhanced the school’s social and emotional literacy by promoting character education programs such as Character Counts, which has expanded as a district-wide initiative. Dr. Natali was instrumental in implementing the Foreign Language Exploratory (FLEX) program, so that sixth graders would be able to make educated choices about which language to pursue. She has served on the district’s Curriculum Committee, the Superintendent’s Conference Day Planning Committee, and has organized the District Spelling Bee. Dr. Natali came to Long Beach after 15 years in the classroom. She started teaching in parochial and private schools in New York City before teaching in the Garden City Middle School, where she taught sixth-grade math and ELA. Before embarking on her career as an educator, Dr Natali worked as a project engineer at Trans World Airlines and as a facilities planner at Ford Motor Company. She earned her master’s and doctorate degrees from St. John’s University and her bachelor’s degree from Cornell University. Dr. Natali is a member of the National Middle School Association, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. Dr. Natali said she is excited to embark in this new position. “I look forward to working with parents and teachers to ensure that the needs of all of our students are being met.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2675 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School students in the Nike Alternative High School program organized their annual marsh cleanup, enlisting fellow students, teachers and community members to roll up their sleeves to aid them in clearing an assortment of flotsam and debris from the marshlands surrounding the Nike Environmental Center. Students came from as far away as Seaford to join them in this environmental effort. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2664 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT During a combined presentation by the Long Beach High School Anti-Bully Club (ABC) and Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Long Island, Long Beach Middle School students learned some valuable lessons about how to stand up to peer pressure, bullying, cyberbullying and sexting. The ABC Members led off the presentation by sharing some of their own experiences as victims of bullying. They told how they got together, with the support of club advisers Phil Bruno and Jaclyn Gallinaro, to create a special place where students could feel protected from bullying - a place where they could just talk and feel safe. In the process, explained club member Maria Krezeminski, members came to feel empowered to fight bullying in their school and in their community. This visit to the middle school was just one of a number of actions they have taken to spread the word about the importance of being an upstander in the face of bullying instead of being a passive bystander. They ended their presentation by reading their anti-bully pledge, which says, in part, “I know sticking up for someone is the right thing to do. We are the students of Long Beach High School. And we won’t stand by…We will stand up.” The second part of the presentation was led by Johanna Mathieson-Ellmer of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island. She talked to students about the difference between bullying and teasing, explained why kids bully, and talked about what it feels like to be bullied. Bullying has been taken to a whole new level of meanness, she explained with the advent of the Internet, which has spawned new bullying dangers such as cyberbullying, sexting and even bullycide. She reminded students that bullying is never justified. “Don’t suffer or let a friend suffer in silence,” advised Ms. Mathieson-Ellmer. “Always reach out to a trusted adult.” To further reinforce the lessons they learned, students also participated in Mini Challenge Day activities. Challenge Day is a national program that aims to inspire participants to celebrate diversity, truth and full-expression. During Mini Challenge Day, students participated in team-building exercises that inspired them to “be the change they wish to see in the world.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2665 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Instead of just talking about bully prevention, the Bully Busters at Lindell School have been taking an active role in making their school a caring, safe environment for all. Student representatives in grades 4 and 5 have been visiting classrooms throughout their school to present mini-lessons and role-playing activities that model the positive choices that both victims and bystanders can make to stop bullies in their tracks. The Bully Busters made “choice wheels” that point out appropriate words and actions to use to become “upstanders” instead of bystanders, thus creating an atmosphere where bullying cannot flourish. Among the choices were: report the bullying to a grown up; give yourself a put-up (the opposite of a put-down); stand tall and strong; and look the bully in the eye and say “I don’t like it when you do that.” After demonstrating each choice, the Bully Busters gave their classmates a chance to do some role-playing, taking on the roles of the bully, victim and bystander to practice different techniques to use in some typical situations they might encounter. “The Bully Busters would love everyone at their school to become an upstander instead of a bystander,” said teacher-in-charge Carol Cintorino, who advises the Bully Busters with teacher Jane Quinton. “They are spreading the word that it’s up to each of us to make our school a place where everyone feels safe and welcome.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2666 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT With summer vacation just around the corner, Long Beach Middle School held a special program to remind students how to stay safe, active and healthy throughout the summer. The assembly featured a presentation by teacher Mike Lundwall, who is also a Long Beach lifeguard captain. He showed students exactly what they should do if they are caught in a rip current (swim parallel to the shoreline), explained the significance of the red and green flags on the beach, encouraged them to wear swimming fins, and showed a short video about beach safety. When he asked how many of them knew how to swim, he was pleased to see almost every hand go up. He shared rescue stories from his years as a lifeguard, reminded students to always follow the directions of the lifeguards, and warned them never go into the water when lifeguards are not on duty. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2668 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Sixth graders at LBMS experienced firsthand the principles of force, energy, motion, astronomy and meteorology when they participated in a rocket launch at their school. For the past several months, students worked in groups to study the principles of rocket science and build their own model rockets. To enhance the experience, they maintained rocket journals detailing their experiences and progress. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2669 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Long Beach High School Asian Culture Club rallied their school to stage a talent show to benefit the Red Cross Japan Relief Effort. The show featured more than a dozen acts, showcasing the musical, dancing and comedic talent of students and staff. Between the sale of tickets, T-shirts and snacks, students raised over $500 for this worthwhile cause. The event was organized by club officers Sophia Xu, Alex Obed, Lauren Chong and Rainnie He, under the guidance of club advisors Angela Casey and Gretchen Cotton-Rodney. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2667 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT History came alive for Long Beach High School students as they welcomed Tuskegee Airman Julius Freeman to their school. Freeman, a resident of Springfield Gardens, N.Y., recounted his experiences as a member of the Tuskegee Airmen, who earned the distinction of breaking the color barrier as the first African-Americans to serve as pilots in the Army Air Corp. He served in the 9th Air Force Division, from 1944-1948, flying missions as a bomber escort over Germany, Italy, France and Africa. He and his fellow Tuskegee Airmen became the first black military airmen at a time when many people, including the white officers who trained them, believed that black men lacked the intelligence, skill and courage to be fighter pilots. These brave young men, who trained at Tuskegee Army Airfield in Tuskegee, Alabama, proved everyone wrong. “In all the years we served as bomber escorts over Germany and France, we never lost a single bomber,” said Mr. Freeman, with obvious pride. After being discharged in 1948, Mr. Freeman said he was discouraged to find that so much racial discrimination still existed in the U.S. “We were treated as equals in Europe,” he said. “But when we got out of the service and went back home, I was disheartened to find that nothing had changed. Decent jobs were not available to men of color. I did not wish to be a porter, so I started selling cars. It wasn’t easy to break in, but I made a very successful career as a car salesman. I just retired a few years ago, at the age of 81.” Mr. Freeman, who will soon turn 85, proudly wore his Congressional Gold Medal, which was finally awarded to him and his fellow Tuskegee Airmen in 2007 by then President George W. Bush. This was a proud day for Mr. Freeman, but his proudest day came on January 20, 2009, when he and his fellow Tuskegee Airmen were invited to breakfast with the newly inaugurated President Barack Obama. “This was the highlight of my life,” he said, “because I knew that I had lived to see the day that a man of color would be elected to the highest office in this country. Things are very different today. When I was your age, I couldn’t ride in the front of a bus, or be served in a restaurant alongside whites. I did not have the opportunities you have. Today a man of color is President of the United States. This proves that there is nothing you can’t do if you put your mind to it. Stay in school and get an education. Whatever your desires are, once you are convinced of what you want to do with your life, let no one turn you around.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2615 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach City School District and the Steven and Alexandra Cohen Children’s Medical Center of the North Shore Long Island Jewish Health Care System joined forces to offer free voluntary heart screenings for Long Beach Middle School eighth graders who plan to participate in district sports programs. A total of 48 participants received both ultrasound (echocardiogram) and electrocardiogram (ECG) exams. Dr. Scott Pilgrim, a pediatric cardiologist at Cohen, oversaw the screening. The ultrasound exam is conducted to identify abnormalities that may not be apparent on customary pre-participation physical examinations. The exam evaluates the size and function of the left pumping chamber of the heart (left ventricle) and the size of the main artery of the body (aorta), as well as the function of its valve (aortic valve). Abnormal left ventricular size (cardiomyopathy) or abnormal aorta size or function may result in abnormalities of heart function when an individual participates in organized, competitive sports. Funding for the program was provided by the Gruen Foundation. The program was introduced to Long Beach Middle School through the efforts of Neil Sterrer, Director of the Long Island Board of Realtors, as part of its “We’re More than Realtors” community outreach program. Arnold Epstein, District Director of Athletics, Physical Education and Health and Director of Pupil Personnel Services Dr. Mary Tatem facilitated the program with Barbara Young, the district’s Nursing Coordinator. School nurses Lori Montgomery, Mary Beth Thurston and Elizabeth Leibowitz assisted Ms. Young. Continental breakfast was provided by Carrie Bleck of Max Bialystok in Long Beach. Susan Gruen Helsinger founded the Jason F. Gruen Research Foundation in honor of her son Jason, who died from an undiagnosed heart condition when he was a sophomore at Manhasset High School. Since that tragic event, Ms. Gruen Helsinger has been working tirelessly to help diagnose life-threatening heart conditions in other children. In total, over 1,600 students in five school districts have been screened as part of this program, with over 30 lives saved. This is the third year that the program has been offered in Long Beach, with nearly 150 students screened. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2616 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Now in its third year, Long Beach High School’s Anime/Manga Art Forum promotes cultural awareness of Asian cultures through the popular Japanese graphic stories and cartoons called Manga and Anime. As part of the program, students published their own limited-edition compilation of original graphic stories and Manga art, which they debuted at a special book unveiling at the Long Beach Public Library. The contributing writers were invited to read excerpts from their stories before giving away signed copies of their books. To add to the festivities, there was a costume contest, inviting local fans to show their enthusiasm for Anime and Manga by dressing as their favorite characters—a Japanese tradition called Cosplay. The club, which is funded through a Title III grant, was developed as an enrichment program in alternative literature. Students draw on technology, art, literature and social studies skills to create their Manga portfolios. The genre includes a broad range of subjects, including everything from action-adventure, romance and sports to historical drama, science fiction and fantasy. The club is open to English language learners and native English speakers and attracts students from a cross-section of different social groups, proving that art truly can provide a bridge for fostering cultural understanding. At each meeting of the club, cultural consultant Rosa Maria Goeller presents a mini-lesson that teaches students about Japanese and other Asian cultures. Guest speakers have included the Japanese Consulate’s Cultural Attaché and the Dalai Lama’s Liaison Officer to Latin America. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2617 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Fourth graders in the Long Beach School District’s Learning Activities for Raising Creativity (LARC) program raised over $2,600 for the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County (UCPN) by participating in the annual Trivia Challenge, an academic fundraising event that combines education, philanthropy and fun. To participate in the challenge, students were grouped in teams to take a 100-question written test, covering everything from academics to popular culture. They asked family and friends to sponsor them, pledging a certain amount for every question they answered correctly. Joshua Kapilian, Charles Gorton, Roman Minneci, Dane Ceniceros, Hannah Zelinger and Harry Lee scored high enough to qualify for the Trivia Challenge Championship. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2618 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT In an annual rite of passage for seniors, community leaders and family members came together to honor the best and brightest at Long Beach High School’s Academic Awards Night. As family and friends took their seats in the auditorium, the high school chamber ensemble played a medley of classical tunes, followed by a presentation by the Select Choir and a piano interlude performed by Long Beach High School Salutatorian Sophia Xu. “This evening is about you and your accomplishments,” said retiring Superintendent Robert Greenberg in his opening remarks. “This is a special evening for me because of students like you – what you’ve achieved and the way you have demonstrated character, leadership and commitment to your school and your community makes me proud to serve this district.” Students were recognized for excellence as scholars, athletes, musicians, artists, leaders and humanitarians. They were also honored for exhibiting exceptional character and service to their community. In addition to department awards, there were dozens of scholarships presented to students by local PTAs, teachers’ associations, government offices, civic groups and businesses. Especially meaningful were the memorial awards given in honor of past leaders, humanitarians and loved ones who had touched so many in the Long Beach community. School Board President Dr. Dennis Ryan gave special thanks to Guidance Director Carolyn Cuttler, who is also retiring this year. “She has been described as the ‘soul’ of Long Beach High School. I want to recognize her not just for what she does to organize this wonderful event, but for her many contributions to the district throughout the years.” He also thanked all the generous sponsors, who together donated over $100,000 in scholarship funds. “You represent our future,” said Ms. Cuttler. “As you get ready to leave Long Beach High School, remember the people who made you feel good along the way, and remember to thank them.” In that same spirit of thanks, Ms. Cuttler expressed her gratitude to her guidance counselors and office staff for their countless hours of work behind the scenes to organize every detail of this special evening. New this year was the Principal’s Leadership and Achievement Awards, presented by Dr. Gaurav Passi. One of the most moving moments of the evening came at the end of the ceremony. Each award recipient had been asked to name a teacher who had played a special role in his or her success. One by one each teacher was called up to the stage to receive a special round of applause. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2619 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Visitors To Our Buildings Must Sign In And Show Photo ID http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2612 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT HS Course Catalogue For 2011-2012 Is Available From HS Page http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2614 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT More Information http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2594 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT At the beginning of the school year, Long Beach Public Schools vowed to make the six pillars of character - trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship – a way of life for all students in the district. Throughout the year, teachers and administrators have been working to infuse these basic principles into every aspect of classroom instruction through special activities, clubs, bulletin boards, banners, art projects and community outreach programs that gave students many opportunities to show that character counts. As a culminating activity, students took part in a districtwide Character Education Celebration on May 24 to give voice to all they had learned throughout the course of the year. They also participated in the making of a video, produced by middle school teacher Shari Steier, which captured in their own words what it means to be a person of character. The video was presented at each school’s celebration during the day, and then once again at a special presentation at that evening’s Board of Education meeting. Students at the Blackheath Pre-K School gathered together to sing and sign their own version of Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World.” Lido students prepared a show for their families, telling in their own words everything they had learned about being a true friend, caring for one another and respecting the rights of others. At Lindell, students acted out their own versions of some classic fairy tales, with each skit representing one of the six pillars. Among the parodied stories were Jack and the Beanstalk, The Three Little Pigs, Cinderella and Her Stepsisters, Little Red Riding Hood, and Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Students at East School invited their parents to join them as each class participated in a different activity that reinforced the six pillars of character. They recited original poetry, sang songs and planted marigolds in recycled cups. The classrooms and hallways were all decorated to represent the theme of the day. West School students kicked off a weeklong Character Counts celebration with an assembly on May 24, and closed the week with a special version of their annual Health Fair Olympics that featured activities celebrating the six pillars of character. At the middle school, students officially renamed their hallways Perseverance Path, Caring Court, Boulevard of Honor, Trustworthy Trail and Peaceful Place, creating bulletin boards and matching classroom door decorations depicting each theme. Prizes were awarded for the best door decorations. At the high school, a special luncheon was held to honor all Students of the Month who had been named throughout the year for demonstrating trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship in their school. The honorees were Shauna Spruiell, Daniel Vegh, Mark Raghunandan, Brianna Acosta, Hunter Rogoff, Tatianna Summers, Judith Quintanilla, Jin Mei McGinn, Malik Hodge, Russell Goetz, Oral Allen, Megan Cabasino, Ryan Ceratti, Andrew Franco, Brigitte Gilbert, Geoffrey Noss, Angela Davis, Walter Ulloh, Jessie Barnett, Kedisha Rambert, Juliana Gomez, Jesse Schaefer, Jahron Foster, Natasha Mejia and Jackie Demerest. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2569 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Three teams of Long Beach High School students won top awards at the 2011 International Sustainable World (Engineering, Energy and Environment) Project Olympiad (I-SWEEEP) in Houston, Texas on May 5-9. Competing against 450 top projects from 70 countries around the world, the three teams won a grand prize, two gold medals and one silver medal, placing them in the top 10-20% of all projects entered. The team of seniors Jackie Bokor and Hannah Berkowitz won both the grand prize and a gold medal in the Environmental category. They worked with microorganisms to sequester heavy metals as a potential means for bioremediation. No strangers to the I-SWEEP winner’s circle, Jackie and Hannah won a gold medal in the environmental category in 2009 and a silver medal in 2010. The team of juniors Arianne Papa and Jane Smyth also earned a gold medal in the Environmental category. They worked with mussels to filter for treated sewage effluent. They will continue their research this summer in the Simons Summer Research Fellowship Program at Stony Brook University as part of the team working on the Western Bays Project to reduce pollution in the marshlands along Nassau’s south shore. This is the second year in a row that this pair took home a gold medal in this category. In 2009, their first year at the competition, they earned a bronze medal. The team of sophomores Brandon Levokove and David Velez won a silver medal in the Environmental category. They studied the ability of fungus to mitigate stress on Kentucky Bluegrass. Students developed their projects under the direction of Science Research teachers Cody Onufrock and Veronica Ade. Organized by the Cosmos Foundation, I-SWEEEP is the largest science fair event of its kind in the world. The objective of the competition is to spark interest in and awareness of our planet’s sustainability challenges; to accelerate the progress toward a sustainable world by engaging young minds at an early age to develop an environmentally conscious global community; and to inspire personal responsibility in caring for the planet and those who share it. Over $350,000 in scholarships and prizes are awarded each year. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2575 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Board of Education has appointed David Weiss as the new Superintendent of Schools, effective July 1, 2011. The appointment was announced at the May 10th Board of Education meeting. Mr. Weiss is a veteran educator and administrator with over 30 years of experience in public education. Since 2004, he has been the Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Education and District Chief Information Officer of the Commack Public Schools. Prior to that, he was an assistant principal at Commack High School. Before going to Commack, Mr. Weiss worked for 20 years in the Rockville Centre School District as a social studies teacher, coach, and Coordinator of the International Baccalaureate Program. He began his career in Bay Shore, teaching social studies and mathematics. While overseeing its instructional program, Mr. Weiss helped Commack to become one of the highest-performing districts on Long Island, all while operating in a conservative fiscal environment. Under his leadership, Commack increased its Regents Diploma, Advanced Regents Diploma and Special Education Regents Diploma graduation rates to among the highest in the state, while operating below the state average for spending. He has fostered an invitational learning environment that encourages students to challenge themselves with a rigorous curriculum. Mr. Weiss is a recognized expert on the International Baccalaureate Program. Commack Middle School is the first authorized IB Middle Years School on Long Island, and Commack High School now has the third largest IB Diploma Program in North America. Mr. Weiss has been a member of the IB Organization’s North American District Task Force and recently assisted the IBO in an important national study of college-readiness standards. He is the immediate past-President of the Guild of International Baccalaureate Schools of the Northeast, a nine-state organization that he co-founded. A strong believer in the importance of social and emotional learning, Mr. Weiss is a founding member of the Long Island Social and Emotional Literacy Forum and has contributed to the development of the New York State Education Department’s voluntary district guidelines for K-12 social and emotional development and learning. As District Chief Information Officer, he has been a pioneer and strong advocate for the use of data-driven instructional decision making. He has presented on these topics at the local and state levels. He has also been a consultant and keynote professional development speaker for school districts on Long Island, Westchester and upstate. Mr. Weiss completed his undergraduate education in history and sociology at the University of Rochester, where he was a member of the Dean’s select honor society. He received a master’s degree with distinction from Hofstra University and completed his administrative training at Long Island University/C.W. Post, where he is now a doctoral student. He has had additional school finance training at Stony Brook University. While in the Rockville Centre Schools, he was recognized for his teaching as a News 12/Hofstra University Educator of the Month in 2000, and honored as the Rockville Centre Herald’s Person of the Year in 1998. In 2008 he was awarded the Technology Administrator of the Year Award by Western Suffolk BOCES. Mr. Weiss and his wife Linda, a Long Beach High School graduate, have raised their family in Long Beach. Mr. Weiss has coached both of his children on youth teams and more recently, has been an avid fan at high school games. His daughter Lena is a 2009 LBHS graduate now completing her sophomore year at Brown University, and his son Ben will attend Georgetown University in the fall after graduating from LBHS this June. “Since I came to Long Beach 30 years ago, I have fallen in love with the city,” said Mr. Weiss. “ I am looking forward to contributing my energy and expertise to the continued progress of the Long Beach Public Schools.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2805 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Board of Education has officially appointed Patricia Hausfeld as the district’s new K-12 Director of Guidance as of July 1, 2011. She will be replacing Carolyn Cuttler who, during her distinguished 23-year career with the district, has served as a teacher, guidance counselor and high school guidance department chairperson. Ms. Hausfeld comes to Long Beach from the Amityville Union Free School District, where she has served as Director of Guidance since 2005. During her tenure there, she administered all elementary, middle and high school guidance programs, developed an early college program for juniors and seniors to earn college credit, founded the Amityville School-Business Partnership to help students develop career readiness skills, developed a middle school alternative program and chaired the district-wide Bullying Committee. Beginning her career as an assistant dean at the Office of Freshman Advancement and the Office of Academic Advisement at Hofstra University, Ms. Hausfeld later served for four years as a guidance counselor at Baldwin Senior High School, before becoming an administrative assistant for guidance at Huntington High School in 2003. Ms. Hausfeld received a Professional Diploma in School District Administration from SUNY Stony Brook. She also holds a Master of Science with Distinction in Education and School Counseling and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Psychology, both from Hofstra University. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2806 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Board of Education has approved the appointment of Sally S. Neumann as the district’s new Director of Technology, effective July 1, 2011. She will replace Michel Richez, who will be retiring after more than 30 years of service to the district as both a teacher and administrator. Ms. Neumann has over 12 years of experience as an educational administrator, as well as management experience in the field of information systems and technology in the corporate and government sectors. She began her career as an elementary teacher. For the past two and a half years, Ms. Neumann has been a BOCES consultant assigned to the Shoreham Wading River Central School District. In this capacity, Ms. Neumann has provided administrative, consulting and support services in the areas of strategic planning, curriculum, instruction, professional development, technology integration, application support, and data management. She has been responsible for providing ongoing planning and administrative oversight of district-wide technology and has led many technology initiatives, including the implementation of a new state-of-the-art district network to improve administrative and instructional computing, deployment of technology-based resources such as laptops, SmartBoards, and student response systems, the addition of software solutions to support instruction, learning and student achievement, and the introduction of modern technology applications and systems to streamline operations, increase efficiency and reduce costs. Ms. Neumann directed the district’s Technology Steering Committee and coordinated the development of the district’s strategic 21st Century Learning Technology Plan. Ms. Neumann also served as Director of Technology and as Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Technology for the Wyandanch Union Free School District for four and a half years. She was promoted to the position of Assistant Superintendent after her first year as Director of Technology. During her tenure at Wyandanch, she implemented many technology initiatives, including a robust, technology-rich infrastructure, new administrative systems for managing student, financial, transportation, school lunch, professional development and curricular development programs, and a number of educational and technology programs to support instruction. As Assistant Superintendent, she introduced a data-driven program of differentiated instruction which resulted in an overall increase of 25% in student performance on standardized assessments over a two-year period of time. During this time, she also developed a comprehensive K-12 literacy plan, introduced reading remediation programs, reorganized district-wide AIS and ESL programs, developed data management systems to monitor program effectiveness, and guided the district in the development of a new standards-based ELA and ESL curriculum. Earlier in her career, she served as the administrator for gifted and talented education and instructional technology for the Sachem Central School District, and as Director of Technology and Chief Information Officer for the South Country Central School District. Ms. Neumann holds a post-graduate diploma in Educational Leadership & Technology from Dowling College. She earned her master’s degree in education from New York University and her bachelor’s degree from Queens College. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2807 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Board of Education has officially appointed Cheriese Pemberton as the district’s K-12 director of mathematics. She will replace Harry Witkin, who is retiring as of July 1 after more than 30 years of service to the district as a teacher, high school math department head and director of mathematics. A familiar face to many, Ms. Pemberton has served as a vice principal at the high school for two years. She previously taught math for four years at the high school before leaving to assume the role of Director of Mathematics K-12 in the Uniondale Union Free School District in 2007. Among her many accomplishments as Vice Principal, she chaired the instructional support team, conducted professional development workshops in instruction, assessment and discipline, and created data reporting and analysis plans for monitoring student progress in the mathematics, social studies and FACS (Fair Access to Care and Services) departments. As Director of Mathematics in Uniondale, she implemented effective team-building strategies to develop a culture of joint effort, instituted Professional Learning Communities for teachers to share best practices, and provided data-driven leadership and instruction in order to enhance teacher pedagogy in conjunction with student performance. During her tenure as a math teacher at Long Beach High School, she helped design and develop curricula that was instrumental in producing a 100% rate of passing on the 2006 Math B Regents. She participated on the Test Specifications Committee for NYSED related to Integrated Algebra, Geometry, and Algebra 2 & Trigonometry, and also created the curriculum for a course in computer programming. Ms. Pemberton holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and two master’s degrees, one in Mathematics Education and the other in Educational Leadership and Administration. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Educational and Policy Leadership at Hofstra University. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2808 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach City School District was one of the 172 school districts across the country, and 16 on Long Island to be recognized as a Best Community for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation. On May 4, the NAMM Foundation announced the results of its 12th annual Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) survey, which acknowledges schools and districts across the U.S. for their commitment to and support for music education in schools. The BCME survey is a nationwide search for communities whose programs exemplify a strong commitment to music education. Established in 1999, BCME recognizes and celebrates schools, their administrators, teachers, board members, parents and students for their support of music education and their efforts to ensure access to all students as part of the core curriculum. Each school receiving the “Best Communities” designation scored in the 80th percentile or higher in the survey’s grading process. Participants in the survey answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and other relevant factors in their communities’ music education programs. The responses were verified with district officials and the data was reviewed by advisory organizations. The 2011 survey was conducted in collaboration with The Institute for Educational Research and Public Service of Lawrence, Kansas, an affiliate of the University of Kansas. More than 1,600 students participate in the Long Beach School District’s 36 bands, orchestras and choral ensembles. Students in grades 5-12 participate in All-State, All-County, LISFA and NYSSMA festivals. In 2010, one student earned All-State honors, 46 qualified for All-County, and four were chosen to perform at the Long Island String Festival. The High School Marching Band participates every year in the Newsday Marching Band Festival held at Hofstra University. Long Beach High School is one of only a handful of schools on Long Island that offers a guitar class as part of its arts curriculum, and the only guitar program in which students present a multi-act stage show at the end of the year. Middle school and high school groups also perform at various venues throughout Long Beach as a service to the community. The high school gives talented music students the opportunity to join the Tri-M Music Honor Society. Members tutor younger musicians and perform community outreach work. “This is a well-deserved recognition for the community, district leaders, teachers and parents who believe in music education and are assuring that it is part of a complete education for children in our schools,” said Dr. Dale Johanson, the District Director of Comprehensive Arts. “It holds us up as an example of community support and commitment to music education.” A copy of the survey can be downloaded for review at: http://www.nammfoundation.org/research/best-communities-music-education-united-states. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2809 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach Board of Education has announced the appointment of Sean K. Murray as Principal of East Elementary School, effective July 1, 2011. He will be replacing Ronni Reimel, who will retire at the end of the school year. Mr. Murray has served as Assistant Principal of the Norman J. Levy-Lakeside Elementary School in the Merrick Union Free School District since July of 2007. During his tenure there, he helped teachers make use of data-driven instruction and facilitated teacher training with A.U.S.S.I.E. consultants in the areas of balanced literacy, guided reading, shared reading and pedagogy. He was in charge of student discipline and helped establish a school culture that was intolerant of bullying while promoting peaceful conflict resolution. Mr. Murray chaired the Instructional Support Team, providing creative and effective interventions for struggling learners, and was in charge of coordinating key parts of the district’s K-3 Response to Intervention plan. As chair of the Mathematics Committee, he was in charge of aligning the district curriculum with state standards. After graduating from Binghamton University with a degree in English and Literature, Mr. Murray completed a master’s degree in elementary education at Hofstra University in 2000. He spent six years as an elementary classroom teacher, primarily teaching fifth grade in the Elmont School district, but has also taught kindergarten, first, and third grade. Mr. Murray ventured into school administration shortly after completing his Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Policy and Leadership in 2006. “Of course, my number one priority next year will be the children; getting to know them, supporting them, and helping them get to know me,” said Mr. Murray. “I also look forward to bringing my literacy training and experience to support the literacy initiative underway in Long Beach. I’ve been most impressed by the friendliness and openness with which everyone has treated me. I already feel so welcomed and supported. It is a great way to enter a school.” http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2810 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Long Beach team of Arianne Papa and Jane Smyth earned a Second Place Grand Award in Environmental Sciences at Intel ISEF, held on May 8-13 in Los Angeles. Intel/ISEF is recognized as the premier science competition in the world, exclusively for students in grades 9-12. They were joined at the competition by LBHS students Hannah Berkowitz, Jackie Bokor, Elan Heller and Eric Rubin. All six students qualified for this honor by earning first-place awards at the Long Island Science and Engineering Fair (LISEF). Arianne and Jane’s project, entitled “Mussels: A Natural Approach to Sewage Treatment,” also won two special prizes. They earned a $5,000 first-place prize from King Abdul-Aziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity, awarded to projects that contribute to innovations in potable water. The duo also walked away with a $2,500 first-place prize from Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society, awarded for best demonstration of interdisciplinary research. Additionally, Jane and Arianne qualified to represent New York State at the national level of the Stockholm Junior Water Prize competition in Chicago on June 23-25, where they will be vying for a chance to represent their country in the International Competition, held in Stockholm. This is the world’s most prestigious prize for outstanding achievements in water-related activities. It honors individuals, institutions or organizations whose work contributes broadly to the conservation and protection of water resources and to improved health of the planet’s inhabitants and ecosystems. The two have also been accepted to the Simons Summer Research Fellowship Program at Stony Brook University, where they will be continuing their research under the guidance of Dr. Anne McElroy, Director of Graduate Programs in the university’s School of Marine & Atmospheric Sciences, as part of the team working on the Western Bays Project to reduce pollution in the marshlands along Nassau’s south shore. http://www.lbeach.org/News/Story.aspx?id=2567 Wed, 25 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT