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Stony Brook University: Entrance sign

High school students can have their first immersive college experience at Stony Brook University’s Pre-College Summer Program, the residential program for rising high school juniors and seniors.

The Pre-College Summer Program offers one- to two-week courses that provide attendees with the opportunity to have a college campus experience, take courses, participate in workshops, and access resources across campus, including bridging connections with Stony Brook faculty and industry experts.

Throughout the program, attendees will connect with like-minded program participants, while learning to transition to college life and explore areas they might want to pursue a degree in. Prospective attendees must apply to be accepted into the Pre-College Summer Program.

There are a number of discounts available. High school students who apply before March 7 will receive a discount of $100 on the program fee, while those who are currently enrolled in Accelerated College Education at Stony Brook University will receive a $150 discount, and those who qualify for free and reduced lunch will receive a $250 discount on the program fee.

Scholarship opportunities are also being offered for future Seawolves. Students who attend the Stony Brook Pre-College Summer Program this year and subsequently apply, get accepted and enroll at Stony Brook will be eligible for two possible scholarships: New York State residents will receive a $1,000 scholarship over four years ($250 per year) and out-of-state residents will receive a $2,000 scholarship over four years ($500 per year).

Courses include:

  • Aerial Robotics, where participants will learn how to build a robot of their own – a micro quadcopter drone – and program it to fly itself across an arena.
  • Introduction to Biotechnology, where participants will be introduced to some of the basic techniques used in the field of biotechnology.
  • Cancer Biology, where participants will conduct hands-on experiments to create extracts containing phytochemicals and learn what happens when these extracts are used to treat cancer cells.
  • Communicating Science, where participants will develop tools to effectively communicate in a way that excites, engages, and encourages audiences to want to learn more about science.
  • Computational Linguistics, which introduces participants to the wonders of natural languages and the analytical methods underlying natural language technologies, including AI, used worldwide.
  • Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Additive Manufacturing, where participants will learn the principles of CAD software for 3D modeling and assembly, the basics of additive manufacturing and its applications in engineering, and the design process, including requirements analysis and prototyping.
  • Creative Writing, where participants will read and discuss contemporary works of nonfiction, fiction, and poetry as well as practice writing around these genres through exercises.
  • Dental Sciences, where participants can obtain hands-on experience in an advanced preclinical laboratory as well as discover what it’s like to be a dental student.
  • Electrical Engineering, where participants will explore the fundamentals and practice of engineering.
  • Engineering Problem Solving with AI, where participants will discover how to find engineering solutions using generative AI.
  • Environmental Science in the Worm Lab, where participants will design and conduct experiments in ecotoxicology including using experimental design, data collection and data analysis.
  • Finding Your Passion in Health Professions, where participants will learn about advancing career options and discover what it takes to become a successful member of today’s interprofessional healthcare team.
  • Introduction to Engineering Design, where participants will experience the fundamentals of engineering through hands-on activities and projects. They will work with hand tools, learn the basics of 3D printing, and engage in practical problem-solving to design, build, and test their own creations.
  • Machine Learning and Self-Driving, where participants will be introduced to machine learning and self-driving through both lectures and hands-on interactive exercises with self-developed remote-control vehicles.
  • Micro Filmmaking, where  participants will learn visual storytelling by developing a micro screenplay and ultimately create a final micro film.
  • Pre-Law, where participants will learn civil law concepts, including intentional torts, negligence, product liability and contracts.
  • Robotics Engineering, where participants will be taught the fundamentals of robotics, including practical electronics, mechanical design, and microcontroller programming. They’ll develop problem-solving skills, advance critical thinking, and broaden creative and innovative reasoning.
  • Sustainability in Action, where participants will learn about local, regional, national, and international efforts at sustainability through brief lectures in the morning, guided research into examples of sustainability, and afternoon field trips to locations on and off campus to see sustainability in action.
  • TV Studio & Video Production, where participants will have hands-on experience in video production and explore camera operation, composition, video editing, and production techniques in a state-of-the-art broadcast studio and computer classroom.
  • Understanding Public Health, where participants will participate in this experiential program offered by Stony Brook University’s School of Health Professions, where they will learn about advancing career options and discovering what it takes to become a successful member of today’s interprofessional healthcare team.

“The Pre-College Summer program is designed to inspire and engage. Our renowned faculty and dedicated staff work exceptionally hard to create an environment for rising high school juniors and seniors characterized by active learning, discovery, and community,” said Peter Diplock, PhD, vice provost of Continuing, Professional, and Online Education, School of Professional Development. “Our overarching goal is to provide our participants with a realistic preview of university life in a fun and supportive environment.”

Participating students can take courses, led by Stony Brook faculty, all while living on the Stony Brook campus. Students also have the opportunity to participate in recreational activities held on campus. In addition, the program is supplemented by participation in college readiness workshops.

“Pre-College Summer is designed to give participants a preview of college life and give them the confidence necessary to successfully navigate the transition from high school to university. Because our courses are non credit bearing, there is no added pressure of tests and assignments to complete, only an immersive, hands-on learning experience for our participants,” said Tayyiba Qureshi, interim director of the Pre-College Summer Program. “This also allows our instructors the creative license to paint on a clean canvas in ways that make learning transformative, fun and inspiring. It’s an opportunity for them to preview a field of study and perhaps decide if they want to pursue it as an undergraduate – or they may walk away from the program thinking ‘this is not what I want to do for the rest of my life!’ That’s the beauty of this program, it’s the realistic introduction to college and all of its intricacies without the lasting commitment.”

Courses will be held across four sessions throughout the month of July

  • Session One: July 6-11
  • Session Two: July 13-18
  • Session Three: July 20-25
  • Session Four: July 27-August 1.

The program cost is $2,250 ($2,000 is the discounted rate for free or reduced lunch recipients). Applications close on May 30, 2025. The application process involves submitting the applicant’s high school transcript, a reference, a short essay, and a $45 application fee.

Learn more about the Pre-College Summer Program at stonybrook.edu/precollege-summer.

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Pictured (left to right) are Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich; Councilman Neil Manzella; Craig Knapp; Councilwoman Jane Bonner; Supervisor Dan Panico; Councilman Neil Foley; Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig; Councilman Michael Loguercio and Town Clerk Kevin LaValle. Photo from Town of Brookhaven

At the February 13 Town of Brookhaven Board Meeting, Councilwoman Jane Bonner recognized Rocky Point School District music teacher, Craig Knapp, for being named 2024 ‘Educator of Note’ by the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF).

Mr. Knapp is the 18th music teacher to be recognized by LIMEHOF. The ‘Educator of Note’ award recognizes exceptional teachers who demonstrate a commitment to music education, play an active role in the community, and have a significant influence on the lives of music students of all backgrounds and abilities.

The ceremony took place at LIMEHOF’s museum location in Stony Brook and featured musical performances by current and former students, live and video-recorded speeches from colleagues, and a video presentation about Mr. Knapp’s career.

Pictured (left to right) are Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich; Councilman Neil Manzella; Craig Knapp; Councilwoman Jane Bonner; Supervisor Dan Panico; Councilman Neil Foley; Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig; Councilman Michael Loguercio and Town Clerk Kevin LaValle.

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Eastport-South Manor High School

Over 500 students from 32 Suffolk County public and private high schools are currently participating in the 2025 New York State High School Mock Trial Program, the largest the Suffolk County program has ever seen. The Suffolk County Coordinators, Glenn P. Warmuth, Esq. & Leonard Badia, Esq., head up this annual educational program co-sponsored by The Suffolk County Bar Association and The Suffolk Academy of Law.

Northport High School

The New York State High School Mock Trial Program is a joint venture of The New York Bar Foundation, the New York State Bar Association, and the Law, Youth and Citizenship Program. In this educational program, high school students gain first-hand knowledge of civil/criminal law and courtroom procedures. Thousands of students participate each year.  Objectives of the tournament are to: Teach students ethics, civility, and professionalism; further students’ understanding of the law, court procedures and the legal system; improve proficiency in basic life skills, such as listening, speaking, reading and reasoning; promote better communication and cooperation among the school community, teachers and students and members of the legal profession, and heighten appreciation for academic studies and stimulate interest in law-related careers.

The 2025 Mock Trial case is a civil case entitled Leyton Manns vs. Sandy Townes. In this hands-on competition, the teams argue both sides of the case and assume the roles of attorneys and witnesses. Each team competes to earn points based on their presentation and legal skills. “Judges”, usually local judges and attorneys who volunteer their time, score the teams based on ratings on preparation, performance, and professionalism.

While the Mock Trial program is set up as a “competition,” emphasis is placed on the educational aspect of the experience which focuses on the preparation and presentation of a hypothetical courtroom trial that involves critical issues that are important and interesting to young people.

The first round of the competition began on February 5, 2025 with four weeks of random team matchups. The top 16 teams will then head to Round 2 at the John P. Cohalan, Jr. Courthouse in Central Islip, New York, for three weeks of “Sweet 16” style competition leading to the Finals on April 2, 2025 at Suffolk County Surrogate’s Court in Riverhead with the Honorable Vincent J. Messina, Jr., Surrogate, presiding. The Suffolk County champion will then compete in the New York State Finals in Albany on May 18-20, 2025.

The Suffolk County High Schools involved in the 2025 High School Mock Trial competition are: Bay Shore High School, Babylon High School, Brentwood High School, Central Islip High School, Commack High School, Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School, Comsewogue High School, Connetquot High School, Deer Park High School, East Hampton High School, East Islip High School, Eastport-South Manor High School, John H. Glenn High School, Greenport High School, Half Hollow Hills High School East, Half Hollow Hills High School West, Hampton Bays High School, Harborfields High School, Huntington High School, Kings Park High School, Lindenhurst High School, Mattituck High School, Miller Place High School, Newfield High School, Northport High School, Shoreham-Wading River High School, St. Anthony’s High School, St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School, Southampton High School, The Stony Brook School, Ward Melville High School, and West Islip High School.

For interest in joining the High School Mock Trial program for 2026, please contact Suffolk County Coordinator, Glenn P. Warmuth, Esq., at (631) 732-2000 or [email protected]. Mock Trial can be an after-school club, an elective class, or part of your school’s curriculum. An attorney will be provided to you to help coach the students in the matters of the legal profession.

The Suffolk County Bar Association, a professional association comprised of more than 2,600 lawyers and judges, was founded in 1908 to serve the needs of the local legal community and the public. For more information about these or other Suffolk County Bar Association programs or services, call 631-234-5511 x 221 or visit www.scba.org

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Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon
Superheroes of the Sky program at Sweetbriar Nature Center 02/15/25. Photo by Bill Landon

By Bill Landon

It was another edition of Superheroes of the Sky Saturday morning, Feb. 15, at the Sweetbriar Nature Center in Smithtown where a cacophony of wild birds of prey made their presence known and tour guide Jim MacDougall conducted the daily ritual of feeding the hawks, barred owls, turkey vultures and bald eagle among others at the end of Eckernkamp Drive in Smithtown. 

Sweetbriar Nature Center is situated on 54 acres of varied garden, woodland, field and wetland habitats on the Nissequogue River. Hundreds of species of plants and animals make their homes there.

Many of the feathered friends were injured raptors lucky enough to find safe refuge at the center where onlookers learned about their incredible adaptations that help them survive in the wild.

Through education and examples, the center encourages responsible decision making, appreciation and respect for the unique wildlife and ecosystems found on Long Island.

The next Superheroes of the Sky program will be held on Saturday, March 8 from 11 a.m. to noon. Tickets are $10 adults, $5 children. Preregistration is required by clicking here.

For more information about the Sweetbriar Nature Center visit  www.sweetbriarnc.org.

— Photos by Bill Landon

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Smithtown High School East seniors Sophia Trivigno and Gabe Finger traveled to Albany on Feb. 11 to advocate for passing the Students for Solar Act (S1986). The students met with Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay. Photo courtesy of Smithtown Central School District
Smithtown High School East seniors Gabe Finger and Sophia Trivigno. Photo courtesy of Smithtown Central School District

Smithtown High School East seniors, Gabe Finger and Sophia Trivigno, traveled to Albany on Feb. 11 and joined the Long Island Lobby Coalition to speak one-on-one with members of the New York State Senate, Assembly and governor’s staff to advocate for passing the Students for Solar Act (S1986). They highlighted the success of Smithtown High School West’s solar array for its environmental benefits and for the cost savings that go directly back into the schools.

Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassey (D-Port Jefferson), a Smithtown High School East alumna, praised the student’s involvement. “What a joy to speak with two students from my very own high school on Long Island Advocacy Day,” Kassey said. “Along with fellow community members, Gabe and Sophia traveled to New York’s capital to let us policymakers know the kind of future they want — a sustainable one! Their visit and voices reinforce my commitment to passing laws that not only address the near future but also build towards meeting long-term goals as we work towards both environmental and fiscal sustainability for every New Yorker.”

The students were met with applause and admiration for their passion to make a difference. “It is imperative these students are given the opportunity and voice to advocate for their future,” says Melissa Parrott, executive director, Renewable Energy Long Island. “Gabe and Sophia expressed themselves with such confidence and commitment, it was impressive.”

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Superintendent of Schools, Jessica Schmettan. Photo by Aramis Khosronejad

Dear Port Jefferson School Community, 

I am writing to inform you about an important matter that significantly impacts our school  district’s financial health and, ultimately, our students. In 2019, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo  signed the Child Victims Act (CVA) into law. This legislation created a “look-back window”  allowing victims of sexual abuse to file civil litigation against alleged abusers and institutions  that may have enabled such abuse, regardless of when the incidents occurred. The look-back  window opened in August 2019 and closed in March 2021, resulting in over 10,000 claims filed  against various institutions, including numerous school districts across New York State. Port  Jefferson had seven claims filed during this period.  

While the CVA was enacted with the critical goal of providing justice to survivors of abuse, it  has also led to unintended financial consequences for school districts like ours. Port Jefferson  settled all of the CVA-related lawsuits in November of 2024, totaling 16.5 million dollars. In  order to pay for this settlement, the District was able to utilize 5.1 million dollars from our  reserve funds and additionally, borrow a one-year Bond Anticipation Note (BAN) for 11.4  million dollars. A BAN is a short-term financing option that allows the District to make an  interest-only payment for one year. 

During our first work session budget presentation on Jan. 28, 2025, Deputy Superintendent  Sean Leister outlined the District’s plan for making this first BAN payment of $370,445 in the  2025-2026 school year. A copy of the presentation and video link of the meeting can be accessed  from our website. Beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, the District will need to convert the  11.4 million dollar debt into a fourteen-year long term bond unless we have some legislative  relief.  

These substantial future bond payments will place a heavy financial burden on our district,  impacting our ability to deliver the quality education our current students deserve. While we  remain deeply sympathetic to the victims and recognize the seriousness of the allegations, we  believe it is unjust for our present-day community and students to shoulder this financial burden. 

To address this issue and advocate for fair solutions, we are urging our elected officials to support the following measures at the state level: 

1. Partial Reimbursement: Establish a budget initiative to offer partial reimbursement  for CVA settlements or judgments. This can be accomplished through a formula similar  to the existing building aid model for school infrastructure. 

2. Tax cap exemption: Allow districts a tax cap exemption specifically for CVA related expenditures. 

3. CVA fund: Create a dedicated fund to reimburse uninsured school districts for  settlement and judgment expenses under CVA. 

4. Liquidation Bureau: Expand the look-back period for school districts to submit  insurance claims to the New York State Liquidation Bureau. This bureau is an entity that  receives no funding from the taxpayers and protects policyholders of insurance  companies that have been declared insolvent.  

5. Access restricted reserves: Allow districts to access restricted reserve funds through a Board of Education resolution for payments of debt associated with CVA judgments or  settlements. 

Any one of these solutions could provide much needed relief to our district and lessen the long term bond implications. These proposed legislative solutions seek to balance justice for CVA  victims with the need to preserve educational resources for current and future students. We ask  for your support and advocacy to ensure that the education of our students remains a top priority,  free from the unpredictable financial hardships that result from events beyond all of our control. 

Please consider reaching out to state legislators and advocating alongside us for these necessary changes to protect our schools and our students. Templates can be found on  our website along with directory information for our local elected officials.  

Thank you for your continued support of our district and our mission to provide a high-quality  education for all students. 

Sincerely, 

Jessica Schmettan 

Superintendent of Schools

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Pictured (left to right) are Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich; Councilman Neil Manzella; Salvatore Campo (Ms. Fogal’s father); Theresa Fogal; Councilwoman Jane Bonner; Supervisor Dan Panico; Councilman Neil Foley; Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig; Councilman Michael Loguercio and Town Clerk Kevin LaValle. Photo from Town of Brookhaven
At the February 13 Town of Brookhaven Board Meeting, Councilwoman Jane Bonner recognized Rocky Point School District bus driver, Theresa Fogal, for safely maneuvering her bus full of students as it was sliding downhill during a recent snowstorm. By staying calm, Ms. Fogal guided the bus down the steep, icy hill and kept it upright and moving forward. No one was injured during the incident and all the children arrived home, safe and sound.
Councilwoman Bonner praised Ms. Fogal for her heroism and presented her with a Town Board Proclamation. To watch the video of the incident, please go to  https://www.youtube.com/shorts/XqJh_YPrans.
Pictured from left, are Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich; Councilman Neil Manzella; Salvatore Campo (Ms. Fogal’s father); Theresa Fogal; Councilwoman Jane Bonner; Supervisor Dan Panico; Councilman Neil Foley; Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig; Councilman Michael Loguercio and Town Clerk Kevin LaValle.

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Port Jefferson Middle School production of 'Imaginary'
Port Jefferson Middle School production of 'Imaginary'
Port Jefferson Middle School production of 'Imaginary'
Port Jefferson Middle School production of 'Imaginary'
Port Jefferson Middle School production of 'Imaginary'

Port Jefferson Middle School recently presented Imaginary, an enchanting new musical that explores the magic of childhood, the power of imagination, and the journey of growing up. This exciting production, from Jan/ 31 to Feb. 2, was the New York premiere of the musical and captivated audiences with its heartfelt storyline and talented performers.

Featuring catchy tunes and touching ballads, Imaginary follows a young protagonist as they navigate a mystery at their new school—why are all these students acting like zombies? To save the day they must learn to harness the power of friendship and imagination. As the story unfolds, the audience is reminded of the importance of nurturing creativity and connection in a world that often emphasizes the pursuit of perfect grades instead.

“The themes of Imaginary resonate deeply with children and adults alike,” said Christine Creighton and Laurel Ormiston, the directors of the musical. “It’s a story about holding onto the magic of your imagination while embracing the changes that come with growing up. We were incredibly proud to bring this inspiring production to the stage for the first time in New York, and to be able to give that unique opportunity for both cast and audience to experience something brand new.”

The cast, comprised of Port Jefferson Middle School students, showcased their months of dedicated work by delivering joyful, expressive performances. “We could not be more proud of these students. For many, this was their first show, and we hope that this was the start of their journey here with our phenomenal Royals’ performing arts community,” said Dr. Michael Caravello, the Port Jefferson Director of Music and Fine Arts.

The musical was also brought to life through exquisite lighting, props, costumes, and beautifully crafted sets which were the result of generous efforts by both parent volunteers and Port Jefferson staff. “Our students and families have been one of the best to work with because of their enthusiasm, teamwork, and talent,” noted Creighton.

The Port Jefferson Middle School community came together to enjoy this extraordinary event, with many students, teachers, and families attending the performances. The success of Imaginary marks another milestone in the school’s long history of producing high-quality theatrical productions.

For more information regarding the Port Jefferson School District and its students’ many achievements, please visit the District’s website at https://www.portjeffschools.org and follow its Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/PortJeffSchools.

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Allison Wong with her project. Photo by Kelly Gwydir

By Daniel Dunaief

Over 150 students around Long Island recently caught the science bug.

Allison Wong with Marivia Fernández-Serra. Photo courtesy of Kelly Gwydir

Students from kindergarten through 12th grade made one-minute videos to celebrate historic women in science as a part of the Institute for Advanced Computational Science’s (IACS) second annual competition.

Contestants in the Stony Brook University challenge described their connection with women who sometimes operated in the scientific shadows, while they also described an experiment they did that highlighted an important concept or achievement from the work of historical role models.

“We want to recognize the importance of women in the history of science and engineering,” said Mónica Buggalo, a co-chair of the event and professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering  and at the IACS. Despite the young age of some of the participants, Buggalo was “blown away by how confident they are. It’s unbelievable.”

On Feb. 13, in honor of International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the finalists provided a two-minute summary of their work and then the IACS named the winners, who will receive cash prizes.

Baylee Stanton from Saxton Middle School and Allison Wong from Lynbrook South Middle School were tied for first place. Each of them will receive $875.

“I’m really proud of myself because this is a pretty advanced topic,” said Wong.

The students presented their one minute videos on any of 10 women.

Wong selected Katherine Johnson, whom she had studied in fourth grade during Black History Month.

“She inspired me to keep learning,” said Wong.

Allison Wong describing her project. Photo by Kelly Gwydir

After describing Johnson, who was one of the scientists featured in the movie “Hidden Figures” and for whom two NASA facilities are named, as an “African American mathematician who fundamentally transformed the field of aerospace engineering,” Wong went on to describe her project.

She set up an experiment using a catapult and four projectiles, in which she recorded the flight time and distance for a ping pong ball, cotton ball, bottle cap and marble. She recorded these measurements five times each at three different angles.

In an interview, Wong suggested that Johnson’s legacy is important as she calculated trajectories for the first US manned space flight and for Apollo 11.

Wong, who wants to be a doctor when she grows up, explained that the experience of competing made her feel “really inspired.”

She plans to put the money into a bank account and hopes to use it later in life.

Allison’s father David Wong was thrilled with the program and hopes it grows exponentially over the years, as the experience about researching women role models is inspirational.

David Wong said he himself knew about three of the scientists the contestants profiled, including Rosalind Franklin, who helped determine the double helical structure of the genetic material DNA and Marie Curie, who conducted ground breaking research on radiation and was the first woman to earn a degree from the University of Paris.

The opportunity to learn about the other scientists on the list was “eye opening,” David Wong said.

Designing a paper bag

Lucy Jane Sammarco. Photo courtesy of Samarco family

While many grocery shoppers might take the paper bag for granted, that is not the case for Hampton Street second grader Lucy Samarco.

Samarco learned about Margaret E. Knight, who had 27 patents and 100 inventions and was called “Lady Edison.” Knight developed the machine that created the flat bottomed paper bag, which is still in use today.

Samarco, who won an honorable mention for her entry and will collect $300 from the IACS, said the morning announcements in school included her result in the competition.

Her classmates clapped for her, which made her smile.

Samarco, who made a volcano that included baking soda, white crystals and water the weekend after the competition, wants to be a scientist when she grows up. Her favorite animal is the pink parrot.

Lucy’s mother Tricia Samarco was overwhelmed with emotion.

Lucy Jane Sammarco. Photo courtesy of Samarco family

All the competitors, who were mostly but not exclusively girls, were “absolutely amazing,” said Tricia Samarco. She said she was impressed with their confidence and their ability to speak in public.

Mike Samarco, Lucy’s father, was concerned that the project might be too challenging for Lucy and that he and his wife might not be able to offer much help.

“She kept coming back and saying, ‘This project looks exciting,” Mike Samarco said. Eventually, Lucy’s enthusiasm won the day.

Ultimately, Lucy has no shortage of ambition or ideas, suggesting she wanted to discover things, change the world and, perhaps, become president.

Strawberry DNA

Julia and Valerie D’Amico. Photo courtesy of D’Amico family

Mineola sisters Julia and Valerie D’Amico, who took home an honorable mention in last year’s competition, received a third place prize for their description and experiment on Franklin.

“She played a great part in discovering DNAs double helical structure,” said Julia, who is in 7th grade at Mineola Middle School. “We were inspired by her.”

The tandem, who received $500 for coming in third, conducted an experiment to extract DNA from a strawberry.

“It was cool seeing how you could do it,” said Valerie, who is in third grade at Jackson Avenue School. Valerie has longer term ambitions to study archeology.

Julia suggested that some of the women scientists from earlier times might have confronted biases against them if they were interested in science or math.

The combination plans to enter the contest again next year as well.

Enriching and enjoyable

Marivia Fernández-Serra, who also co-chaired the event and is a professor in Physics & Astronomy and at the IACS, appreciated how much fun the participants have.

She enjoys watching them take pictures with their scientists.

Fernández-Serra described the event as a “celebration of students.

The goal was of what she described as an “outreach activity” was to “get students excited about doing science and doing research and aspiring to come and start degrees at universities.”

Fernández-Serra suggested that the IACS may break the competition down into different age groups, with entries from elementary, middle school and high school.

Buggalo is thrilled that student competitors are demonstrating interest that extend beyond the challenge.

“There is a lot of excitement about science,” said Buggalo. “Some of them ask about opportunities that the university offers. We do have summer camps and academic activities in research.”

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Board of Education meetings are typically held at William J. Brosnan School. Photo credit GoogleMaps

By Dylan Friedman

The Northport-East Northport Union Free School District Board of Education met Feb. 13 to discuss the district’s proposed budget for the upcoming school year. The meeting covered various topics, including the district’s five-year technology plan, facilities upgrades and security initiatives.

Technology investments

A significant focus of the meeting was the district’s five-year technology plan, presented by Director of Technology David Leis. 

“Every technology investment we make is aligned with instructional purpose and keeping student-centric decision-making in mind,” Leis explained. 

The plan outlines a strategic approach to upgrading the district’s technology infrastructure, including modernizing the fiber backbone, enhancing cybersecurity measures and expanding wireless capabilities to support digital learning and assessments. 

“As we move more into a digital world, making sure our wireless network is robust and can keep up with the demands of all the mobile devices and online experiences is necessary to support our students,” Leis said.

The technology budget also includes funding for the district’s one-to-one device program, which provides students with laptops or tablets.

 “We’ve developed a strategic plan to cycle in new devices for grades one, five and nine each year, aligning with key transition points in a student’s educational journey,” Leis noted.

Facilities upgrades

The district’s facilities and operations team outlined several capital projects and upgrades planned for the upcoming year. These include installing split-unit air-conditioning systems and heat pumps in large shared spaces such as cafeterias and auditoriums. 

“We’re focused on creating equitable access to air-conditioned spaces across the district, so students have a comfortable environment for learning, especially during high-stakes testing,” John Lackner, buildings and grounds director, said.

Other facility improvements include restroom renovations, swipe card access for classrooms and upgrades to the district’s intercom and fire alarm systems. 

Superintendent David Moyer explained, “We’re really trying to create learning environments that are conducive to our instructional priorities. “

Security initiatives

The district’s security team, led by John McEnroe, presented several security-focused initiatives in the proposed budget. This includes extending the district’s blue strobe lockdown system to interior spaces such as gymnasiums and auditoriums and adding a new server to expand video storage capacity for the security camera network.

“The most important layer of security is training and developing our staff,” McEnroe stated. “We provide ongoing training in areas like de-escalation, threat assessment and emergency response planning.”

Transportation enhancements

The transportation department, supervised by Patricia McGrane, is also slated for improvements. The budget includes funding for two additional full-time bus drivers, allowing the district to use more of its own fleet of buses rather than relying on contracted services.

“When we can use our own large buses, we save tens of thousands of dollars compared to contracting out,” McGrane explained. 

The department is also implementing a new “way-finder” system to provide bus drivers with voice-activated turn-by-turn directions.

Recap

The proposed budget reflects the district’s commitment to investing in technology, facilities, security and transportation to support student learning and well-being. 

As Moyer emphasized, “These investments are not just about numbers, but about how we can best support the educational experience for our students.”

The board will continue to review and refine the budget proposal in the coming months before presenting it to the community for a vote.

For more information visit www.northport.k12.ny.us.

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