Long Beach Middle School’s eighth grade students celebrated an important milestone as they marked their transition to high school during a Moving-Up Ceremony held on June 24 at Veterans Field.

Principal Erica Northcutt opened the late-afternoon ceremony with welcoming remarks following the Pledge of Allegiance. The event featured a student performance of Stevie Nicks’ “Landslide,” setting a reflective tone for the occasion.

Representing the Board of Education, Trustee Dr. Dennis Ryan offered words of encouragement to the graduates, emphasizing the importance of punctuality, building meaningful face-to-face connections, and cultivating a small circle of trusted friends. He expressed confidence in the students’ ability to achieve success in the years ahead.

Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Gallagher also addressed the Class of 2026, congratulating students on their accomplishments and sharing her excitement for the opportunities that await them in high school.

Midway through the presentation of diplomas and awards, Student Organization President Palmer Gallo delivered remarks on behalf of the class, reflecting on the memories and experiences that defined their middle school years.

The ceremony concluded with a warm welcome from incoming Long Beach High School Principal Dr. Andrew Smith, who encouraged students to embrace the next chapter of their educational journey with confidence and enthusiasm.

 

Date Added: 6/25/2026

Congratulations to seventh-grader Zoey Pinto on her outstanding achievement as one of only two students selected to represent New York State at the National History Day competition, held in Washington, D.C., on June 15-18. Zoey proudly represented both the Long Beach School District and New York State on the national stage, showcasing her hard work, dedication, and passion for history. Her accomplishment is a testament to her commitment to academic excellence and historical research.

The District is proud of Zoey and this remarkable accomplishment, and we congratulate her on representing our school community with such distinction.

A special thank you to Long Beach Social Studies teachers Dr. John Marr and Mr. Joseph Hoffman, who accompanied Zoey and provided support and encouragement throughout this incredible experience.

 

Date Added: 6/30/2026

The Long Beach Odyssey of the Mind teams recently competed at the Odyssey of the Mind World Finals held at Iowa State University. The event brought together teams from 42 states and 25 countries, making it one of the largest academic competitions in the world.

Once again, Long Beach students made their families, coaches and schools proud. The Long Beach teams achieved outstanding results against some of the most talented young problem-solvers from around the globe. Student creativity, teamwork, dedication, and perseverance were on full display at the highest level of competition.

Congratulations to the following:

Problem 2 – Middle School Division
Team members: Isla Lomitolla, Mavis Fox, Arwynn Donofrio, Zoey Pinto, Maddie Eckert, Rowan McLaughlin, and Caroline McCarthy. This team finished 21st overall in their division and 10th in the world in Long-Term performance.

Problem 3 – Middle School Division
Team members: Kyveli Pelfani, Jasa Decese, Nila Pennant, Farhaal Kahn, Rauri Kennedy, Freyja Bay Rowlands and Layla Collucci. This team finished 5th in the world in Long-Term performance and 10th overall in their division.

Coaches Middle School: Eric Fox and Douglas MacConnell.

Problem 2 – Elementary Division
Team members: Waverly Schaffer, Summer Schaffer, Will Cohen, Elle Cohen, Dana Donofrio, Sadie Bergstiens and Maebry Kotula. This team finished 4th in the world in Long-Term performance and 9th overall in their division.

Problem 3 – Elementary Division
Team members: Anna Chapman, Lexi Fink, Jackson Dali, Jackson DeVito, Rafe Kaminsky, Sariyah Tobin, Max Sendik, and Maisie McChesney. This remarkable team finished NUMBER ONE IN THE WORLD in Long-Term performance and 8th overall in their division.

Coaches Elementary: Andie Techera and Douglas MacConnell.

Special gratitude to the administrators who supported the teams throughout the year, especially Mrs. Connolly for providing a home for the program. Also, thanks to the Board of Education for its continued support.

Congratulations to all our competitors on an unforgettable season!

On May 13th and May 14th, LBMS students delighted families, staff, and community members with their spring musical performances in the 6th, 7th, and 8th grade Band, Orchestra, and Chorus as well as in our morning music groups, including Chamber Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, LBMS Singers, and Jazz Band.

Special thanks to our incredible music teachers, Mrs. Farrell, Mr. Lobenstein, Mr. Marks, and Mr. Neri for their support of our students in their music development and to our families for supporting our students in their dedication to music. Of special note, these concerts marked the final spring concerts for our amazing music teacher, Mr. Lobenstein, who will be retiring at the end of this school year. We are thankful to him for his many years of service to our middle school students and to Long Beach Public Schools and wish him the best in his retirement!

Click here to view the LBMS 2026 Spring Concerts 2026 slideshow.

Date Added: 5/28/2026