During last month’s “Sock-tober,” students at West Elementary School in Long Beach took part in a collection of new socks to donate to individuals in need through Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens. Inspired by the school’s upcoming 100th year celebration in Spring 2026, the goal was to gather at least 100 pairs of socks, a target the school proudly exceeded.

To celebrate their success, students participated in a fun, school-wide “Crazy Sock Day,” showing off their most colorful and creative footwear.

This initiative is one of several activities planned throughout the school year in anticipation of the school’s milestone centennial celebration. Alumni, former staff, and community members who would like to take part in the upcoming festivities are encouraged to reach out to the school for more information.

 

Date Added: 11/13/2025

Long Beach Middle School seventh grade students placed flags in front of the Long Beach Public Schools District Offices as part of their Field of Honor Day, held in recognition of Veterans Day 2025. Students also watched a Veterans Day video and created thank you cards to share with local veterans.

Click here to view the Long Beach Middle School Students Honor Veterans slideshow.

 

Date Added: 11/6/2025

Long Beach High School is proud to announce the top two students for the Class of 2026. Congratulations to valedictorian Marissa Miller and salutatorian Arsen Hrabko.

Marissa is a dedicated and accomplished student balancing a wide range of academic and extracurricular commitments. She is President of the National Honor Society and co-vice president of the Math Team and is a member of both the World Language Honor Society and the LBHS Colorguard. She co-founded Beyond the Beaker, a science club, with her friend, Annie to share their love of science with peers. She serves as President of the Youth Wellness Council, advocating for student wellness initiatives, including the successful introduction of the school’s wellness center, The Well.

As an IB Diploma candidate, Marissa demonstrates a commitment to academic excellence while actively contributing to her community through leadership and service. Additionally, she has been dancing at the Dance Loft since age four and has been competing since first grade, dance is a true passion.

Arsen Hrabko is a highly accomplished and driven student with a passion for mathematics, physics, and computer science. He began attending Long Beach High School in the ninth grade when he first arrived in the United States from the Ukraine. Over the last few years, he has challenged himself academically and has completed 14 AP exams and is accelerating in the International Baccalaureate program. He has an intense commitment to rigorous self-study and academic growth.

Beyond the classroom, Arsen is a dedicated and creative individual. He has developed engaging educational tools, including a computer science project, Calculus Company, designed to help students practice for the AB Calculus Exam in a fun and interactive way. He has also contributed to the school community through writing, including a feature article for the school newspaper and speeches on topics ranging from AP exams to computer science discussions. He speaks Ukrainian, English, Russian, and some Spanish. Arsen thrives in collaborative environments such as Math Club and enjoys sharing knowledge with peers. His enthusiasm for learning, coupled with his willingness to tackle challenges head-on, makes him a standout student and an inspiring member of his school community.

Long Beach High School’s Theatre and IB Dance students recently had the extraordinary opportunity to participate in a West End–style masterclass led by Kieran Jae, Head of Musical Theatre at Performers College Essex, part of BIMM University in the United Kingdom.

Performers College and BIMM University are internationally recognized for training performers who go on to work professionally across the West End, Broadway, and international stages.

During his visit to Long Beach High School, Mr. Jae worked with students in Studio in Theatre, Musical Theatre, and IB Dance classes—offering hands-on instruction, professional-level feedback, and an inspiring glimpse into the world of collegiate and professional performing arts training.

In addition, Mr. Jae shared valuable insight into UK performing arts education and pathways for international students interested in pursuing their passion abroad.

This special experience was made possible through a collaborative effort among the School Counseling Department, the Department of Media, Visual, and Performing Arts, and the Athletics Department, highlighting Long Beach’s commitment to providing students with diverse, world-class learning opportunities that bridge academics, wellness, and the arts.

Long Beach Public Schools is proud to announce that eight talented Long Beach orchestra students have been selected to perform in the Long Island String Festival Association (LISFA) ensembles that will take place in the new year.

Selection to the LISFA ensembles is highly competitive and reflects both individual excellence and strong ensemble preparation. Students will join peers from across Long Island for rehearsals and performances under the direction of distinguished guest conductors. This distinguished honor recognizes their musicianship, dedication, and hard work and is an exceptional opportunity for artistic growth and collaboration.

Congratulations to the following students on this outstanding accomplishment. We look forward to hearing them represent Long Beach with pride: Brooklyn Quigley, grade 10, Long Beach High School, Division 9–10 Orchestra, and Maia Rossi, grade 11, Long Beach High School, Division 11–12 Orchestra, both under the direction of Sun Shin; Katya Karnegie, grade 8, Long Beach Middle School, Division 7–8 Orchestra and Kelsey Parker, grade 6, Long Beach Middle School, Division 6 Orchestra, both taught by David Lobenstein; Jiya Klarner, grade 5, Lido Elementary School, Theodore Bergman, grade 5, Lindell Elementary School, and McCartney Borello grade 5, West Elementary School, all taught by Noelle Bach and performing in the Division 5 Orchestra; and Elliot Rocklin, grade 5, East Elementary School, Division 5 Orchestra, taught by Sofia Notar-Francesco.

The district extends appreciation and gratitude to our dedicated orchestra teachers for their expert instruction and mentorship, and to families for their continued support. This achievement showcases the strength of Long Beach’s music program and the passion of our student musicians.