the district news - center moriches school · pdf fileas well as recognizing three...

Center Moriches UFSD529 Main StreetCenter Moriches, New York 11934

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Best Wishes to our Graduates!

Thanks from the Heart The Parloto Family would like to thank everyone in the Center Moriches, East Moriches and surrounding communities for all of your heartfelt thoughts, prayers, and generous dona-tions. We are so grateful for the kind assistance offered by the teachers, students, Super-intendent of Schools, Board of Education and all of the people who reached out to us after the fi re and the loss of Anthony.

Anthony’s spirit will forever be embedded in, and live on, in all of the lives he has touched. The outpouring of love and support just proves once again what a wonderful community in which we live.

AMERICAN HISTORY: UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL Center Moriches eighth grade students toured Washington, D.C. in May as the culminating activity for the class after two years of studying America’s history. It was an opportunity to visit so many of the famous landmarks in the Capitol, with the understanding of what the monuments and buildings represent. At Arlington National Cemetery, the students saw the precision of the changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and visited President Kennedy’s grave site with the Eternal Flame. They toured the Holocaust Museum’s Daniel’s Story exhibit, the National Zoo, all of the historical outdoor monuments, and the Smithsonian Museums. This year, we also added the Newseum and the Portrait Muse-ums. Each of the seven levels in the building is packed with interac-tive exhibits that explore how news affects our shared experience of historic moments. It was amazing and we were so happy we had an opportunity to see these exhibits. Representative Tim Bishop met with the students (photo above on right) and answered their many questions on current topics. He also arranged for the students to tour the Capitol building and the Senate chamber, for a trip that will long be remem-bered!

The Class of 2013’s school journey began when each child fi rst boarded the yellow school bus and attend-ed their fi rst kindergarten class 13 years ago. On June 22, 117 high school seniors proudly marched through the auditorium to the sounds of “Pomp and Circumstance,” performed by our Symphonic Band. Class of 2001 graduate, First Lieutenant Donald Lanham (United States Army), who has served tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, delivered the keynote address. Lt. Lanham extolled the virtues of respect and self-worth and challenged the Class of 2013 to take on the mantle of leadership. Salutatorian Anthony LaRosa addressed his class-mates with the following sentiments, “Happiness does not come easy, but we here at Center Moriches put so much effort into everything we do because we have a drive to succeed, fueled by our passions and ambitions. We have prepared so well over the years to meet chal-lenges, to strive for success and to push forward and achieve our goals, that I fi nd that the future of the Class of 2013 is extraordinarily bright.” Valedictorian Renee Nelson urged her fellow grad-uates, “to be cognizant of the power of choice…to choose to be positive…to never lose sight of your dreams…to try and fi nd the best in people and to please, make the choice to help someone today.” High School Principal Edward Casswell high-lighted the many accomplishment of the Class of 2013,

including; colleges and universities that students will at-tend, academic, musical, drama, and athletic accolades, as well as recognizing three outstanding individuals who will be serving our country and entering the Armed Services: Danielle Boyle: United States Navy, Kendall Mockridge: United States Coast Guard, and Tristan Sess: United States Merchant Marines. The graduation ceremony concluded with Student Government President, Rachel Ferrante, and Senior Class President, Jarad Vollkommer, asking their class-mates to move their tassels and congratulating them for completing their Center Moriches education journey.

Volume 19 Number 5

The District NewsThe Newspaper of the Center Moriches School District

July 2013www.cmschools.org

FeaturedArticles

Graduate List

Page 2

Box TopNews

0

CH Summer Reading Program

Page 13

BOE Committee Sign-upPage 16

2 The District News July 2103

James F. Adamo*Austin James Alaimo*Samantha Lynn Alcus**Jill K. Almond***Alexander Joseph Alvarez*Edgar G. Amaya*Timothy R. Anthony**Chelsea Armato*Robert W. Barr**Alexander Donald Roy Graham Bell**Katelynn Marie Berchtold*Elia Salvador BerriosKathleen Joan Majella Berry*Eric James Birmingham*Donald Jarred Booker*Danielle Mary Boyle**Daniel Brennan*A’Kyse S. BrownJamal Akin Clinton Browne Jr.**Jeffrey Thomas Carpenter Jr.**Michaela C. Chiorando*Jessica Noel Condy*Dylan Michael Consolo*Peter J. Craven Jr.*Emily V. Dagradi*Ginamarie DeCavallas*Thomas Scott Demint*Malaisha N. Edwards*Caroline Helen Ellis**Tyler Erhardt**Lauren Marie Fedak**Gregory J. Ferguson*Rachel Rose Ferrante**Nicholas R. Ferraro*Melissa Fitzgerald**Austin Scott Fitzgerald*Thomas Fournier*James Edward Fullam*Barron Hill Gallo*Maria Lorraine Gerdik*Alix T. Getreu***Carl Glaser Jr.**Mekhai Kaevon Godley*Timothy R. Holmes***Maryam Fathima Imam**Nicole Impastato*Andrew J. Indemaio**Krysta Elizabeth Ingraham**Marisa Lynn Janik**James Liam Javino*Dylan Jones***Rhiannon Leigh Kanige***James Joseph KellyKaleigh Elizabeth Kessler*Alex H. Kiss*Carolyn Marie Klassert*Jocelin Nicole Kruk*Christine Nicole Lang*Anthony J. LaRosa III***

Dylan Louis Lasorsa*Veronica Maria Lazo Molina*Justin J. Leonard*Ryan Clark Lewis**Vanessa Marie Lewis**David J. Livoti**Dylan Robert Madigan*Jacqueline A. Maida**Stephen Thomas Maltz**Allison Rose Marchese*Joseph N. Marcoccio**Ashley R. Markstaller**Victoria R. Martin*Katherine P. Martinez*Brianna Victoria Mascia***Dora Franchesca Mayen*Daniel Joseph McCarthy**Toney Anthony McFarlane**Michael J. Menzer*Kendall Louise Mockridge***Daniel J. Molloy*Ariana Paige Monaco***AnnaMaria Monroig**Andrew J. Montefusco**Kimberly J. Moore*Ashley Fallon Murdock**Renee M. Nelson***Ryan J. Noonan**Kevin Brian Noonan*Shayne Thomas O’Brien***Kourtney Anne Elizabeth O’Henry**Danae Christine Platt**Takia Monee Plummer**Ellen M. Quaresimo*Cheyenne Rose Raimondi***Justice Bryan Ratliff*Amanda Marie Ringhoff**Erik Kaare Saetran*Erika Joanna Samaniego**Connor M. Sanders*Arianna Schiano Lomoriello**Tristan T. Sess**Greg Seus*Makenzie Rose Sidran*Peter Stephen Sportiello*Tyler M. Stankelis**Raymond John Strebel**Derek H. Thomas**Erik T. Tietjen*Emily Anne Tobin*Nicholas R. Tyson**Kelvin A. Vinces*Michael J. Vitale*Jarad Robert Vollkommer***Leyla Zerrin Wahedi**Jennifer Sarah Winslow*Alex Yu**Anthony Yu**

ValedictorianRenee Nelson

SalutatorianAnthony LaRosa


Board of EducationMrs. Wendy R. Turkington, PresidentMr. Daniel Finnegan, Vice President

Mr. Thomas R. Hogan, TrusteeMrs. Heather Schaub-Magill, TrusteeDr. Kristen Turnow-Heintz, Trustee

Mrs. Patricia A. Galietta, District ClerkMs. Diane M. Smith, District Treasurer

AdministrationMr. Russell J. Stewart, Superintendent

Ms. Lynda G. Adams, Deputy SuperintendentMs. Carol M. Perkins CPA, School Business Offi cialMr. John W. Allen, Assistant to the Superintendent

Mr. Ricardo Soto, Director of Pupil ServicesMr. Jeremy Thode, Director of Health, Physical

Education, Business, Fine & Applied Arts and Athletics

Mr. Edward Casswell, High School PrincipalMrs. Raina Ingoglia, High School Assistant Principal

Mrs. Melissa Bates, Middle School PrincipalMrs. Kim Hardwick, Elementary School Principal

Mrs. Jacqueline Esp, Elementary Assistant Principal

ContactCenter Moriches

Union Free School District 529 Main Street

Center Moriches, NY 11934

Tel: (631) 878-0052Fax: (631) 878-4326

Editors-in-ChiefMr. Russell J. Stewart

Mr. John W. Allen

Layout DesignStarboard Media, Inc.

www.cmschools.org

Congratulations to the Class of 2013

*** Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation with Honors ** Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation * Regents Diploma

3The District NewsJuly 2013

The Suffolk County High School Principals As-sociation and Hofstra University co-hosted the fi rst an-nual Suffolk County High Schools Hofstra Engineering Visitation Day. Forty-fi ve of the top science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) students from across Suf-folk County were invited to Hofstra University to learn about the newly revamped School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Seven Suffolk County high schools participated (Center Moriches, Shoreham-Wading River, Bay Shore, West Babylon, Mattituck, Bayport-Bluepoint, and Com-sewogue) in an exciting, interactive, and authentic day! Congratulations to Prestan Horan, Tom Hogan, Elias Saether, Sean Finnegan, John Delaney, Max Christ and Dan Strebel for representing Center Moriches High School! When students fi rst arrived, they all participated in a cooperative team building activity called, “The Tube.” Students all worked together to design and implement a way to extract a golf ball from a three foot tall and three inch diameter mailing tube with nothing but string, masking tape, scotch tape, scissors, and copier paper. Next, students visited the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences and toured the new lab facility, in-cluding the Bio-Medical Engineering, Materials Analy-sis, Transport Phenomenon (wind-tunnel), and Electrical Engineering laboratories. After the tour, students witnessed the CPX Inter-active Entrepreneurship Competition in the campus li-brary. This competition was an authentic way to bring engineering and scientifi c theories to life through a se-

For 31 years, Center Moriches’ sixth grade students have taken a class trip to Frost Valley. The Frost Valley experience promotes teamwork and problem solving as students work together to accomplish several challenges. There are many opportunities for students to try new and excit-ing activities that help them develop confi dence in their abilities. These include the cable bridge hike, the “Big Swing,” the rock wall, the low and high ropes, and orienteering. There are two evening activities scheduled that the students really enjoyed. The fi rst is the Bird Man. He is a local resident that is an expert on the wild birds of the area. He shows the stu-

dents owls, hawks, falcons, turkey buzzards, and vultures. The birds are displayed and paraded around the room to enable the students to get a close up look at the birds and some really great photos. The students also watch an owl eat a cou-ple of mice, and a hawk fl ies across the room and back to the Bird Man. The students learn about the birds’ feeding habits, nesting, hunting, anat-omy, and adaptability for life in the wild. The students really have a great time at the show. The second evening at Frost Valley is so much fun! The Frost Valley camp counselors come to the Hussey Cabin and build a fi re in the giant fi replace. The students participate in a vari-

ety of camp games and songs that are all-engag-ing. Then, comes the s’mores! The students toast marshmallows and build their s’mores with graham crackers, marshmal-lows, and chocolate pieces. It’s messy, but great fun. The evening concludes with a talent show - with a twist - as students and staff show off their talents for the group. It is amazing what they can do! Everyone has a wonderful time with cheers, clapping and laughter galore! Everyone is very tired when we leave, but also sad that it is over. All are happy to see their families when the buses arrive home at the Mid-dle School.

MIDDLE SCHOOL FROST VALLEY TRIP:

BUILDING TEAMWORK AND MAKING MEMORIES

Hofstra University Engineer ing Visitation Day

ries of student-led presentations while competing for $100,000 in prize money. All participants enjoyed their time at Hofstra and were inspired to explore the world of engineering and continue down the pathway of col-lege and career readiness. As Dr. Richard Puerzer, the Assistant Dean of the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences told all the participants, “The world needs more engineers. Maybe it will be one of you!”

By: Edward Casswell, High School Principal

By: Patricia Cunningham


By: Mr. Richard Velatti, SADD Advisor

The Business Department fi nished its year off with a group project aptly named CM Shark Tank. The principle was similar to the television show, where a group of students (2-5 members) either created or improved an existing product. The task for the students was using the business knowledge they gained this year to create a sales presentation for the “sharks.” Our sharks were various teachers from the Middle School and High School, and Administra-tion, who were given the scenario that they were billionaire investors looking for the next great idea in which to invest. Students were charged with creating a presentation that would identify the need for their product, determine the product’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. They then created a marketing plan complete with a sales demonstration and sales fl yer. Students were incred-ibly creative with their products and sales demonstrations. For example: students presented a solar paneled beach umbrella to charge your phone, an

app to use with your wardrobe, a super capacitor to speed up charg-ing portable devices, a GPS for lacrosse balls and a portable cup holder that clips onto your desk or chair. Mr. Mischler was so im-pressed with many of the products that he is now looking into getting patents for many of the ideas, and having students present them to the actual “Shark Tank.” With any luck these students will get to see their ideas go into production. Mr. Mischler would like to thank the following “sharks” for taking time out of their lunch pe-riods to participate in the Shark Tank: Mr Bing, Ms. Bohr, Mrs. Brienza, Mr. Clancy, Mrs. Fabian,

Mrs. Flieger, Dr. Flynn-Trace, Mr. Gordon, Mrs. Hosek, Mr. Koscinski, Mrs. Lang, Mrs. McCormick, Mrs. Parillo, Mrs. Plush, Mr. Resnick, Mr. Roy, Mr. Scott, Mr. Stewart, Mr. Trujillo, Ms. Tucker,and Mrs. Turpin. He would also like to extend a big thank you to Mrs. Davison for her assis-tance in the Shark Tank production held in the library.

CM Shark Tank Products Have Teeth

Students Against Destruc-tive Decisions (SADD) invited UNITE’s Arrive Alive Tour to Center Moriches High School in May. This unique program used a high-tech simulator, impact video, and a number of other resources to educate our students about the dangers of drunk driving and tex-ting while driving. The simulator allowed students to experience, in a controlled environment, the po-tential consequences of drunk and distracted driving. One of the most commonly recognized driving distractions is cellphone use. About 89% of all Americans have a cellphone, ac-cording to CTIA, The Wireless Association. Also, drivers under 20 years of age have the highest proportion of distraction-related fatal crashes, according to the Na-tional Highway Traffi c Safety Ad-ministration. Their lack of driving experience can contribute to criti-cal misjudgments if they become distracted. Not surprisingly, those under 20 text more than any oth-er age group, and the numbers of young drivers who text is only in-creasing.

With these statistics in mind, SADD President Takia Plummer, and club advisor, Mr. Velotti, knew this was a program that would ben-efi t the Center Moriches Senior Class, especially with prom and graduation season right around the corner. Over 110 students took part in the simulator and many oth-ers observed. It is evident from class discussions that the simulator made a real impact on our students and faculty. If one person was con-vinced through participation of this event not to text and/or drive drunk, then it is worth bringing the program to every school through-out the nation. Takia was the driving force behind this initiative. She has been the President of SADD for the past three years and was recognized for her extraordinary leadership by the Suffolk Country Principals Asso-ciation this past April (photo on right). Takia was one of fi ve Suf-folk County high school students that won the Allstate Safe Driving Activist award and scholarship. She will be attending University of Connecticut this fall.

By: Mr. Jeffrey Mischler, Business Teacher


Fantastic First in FACS!

We had a great time and celebrated many successes in our Family and Consumer Sciences classes , here is a glimpse into our fi rst year together!

The Center Moriches “Devilbots” wrapped up an incredible fi rst sea-son at the Long Island Regional Robotics Competition at Hofstra Univer-sity. The event was held from April 4-6, and featured over fi fty competing teams, with Center Moriches being one of only three fi rst year “rookie“ teams. During those three days, our team learned what robotics is really all about. We kept hearing about concepts such as, “gracious professional-ism” throughout the build season, but it wasn’t until the team arrived at Hofstra that everything started to make sense; all of the teams were unbe-lievable willing to help anyone in need and they did so without a second thought. It was amazing to see teams help each other to make repairs, battle their respective robots and then shake hands and laugh about it all within

a 30 minute period. Our team was awarded the Rookie Inspiration Award by the team of judges at the competition. The award celebrates a rookie team’s out-standing success in engineering. We were also one of the top fi ve scoring teams in the competition and made it into the quarter- fi nals before being, unfortunately, eliminated. FIRST Robotics instilled values into me that I will carry with me throughout life. As a senior at Center Moriches, I have to say that join-ing robotics was the best decision that I made throughout my high school career. Robotics gave me an invaluable amount of fi rsthand experience in both the business and building aspects of our team. My only regret is that I cannot participate on the team next year.

By: Graduating Senior Shane O’Brien

Middle School Middle schoolers started their semesters learning about proper nutrition for wellness. The six essential nutrients for life as well as the impor-tance of whole grains in the diet were explored. Students were able to analyze their own intake and make connections on ways to improve their food choices for optimal health in the future. To prepare for a safe and successful cook-ing unit, students were led into our kitchen basics unit. Students were introduced to ways to stay safe in the kitchen as well as how to keep food safe. They learned about all the necessary tools and ap-pliances that are needed to work well in the kitch-en. This was followed by learning the correct way to measure ingredients, how to read a recipe, cook-ing terms and of course, proper table etiquette! Now they were ready to cook! The students began to understand not just the importance of reading a recipe correctly to make a successful product, but also the value of working as a team to achieve this goal. They all worked together, planning each step for the successful completion of their product and cleaning up after themselves to return the kitchens back to the way they were found for the next class.The students really enjoyed being able to eat the foods that they so proudly made! The sixth graders continued on their journey to the child development unit, and will be able to babysit soon (some already are!). They spent time learning all the important information to properly take care of children. This included: responsible

baby-sitter behaviors, child safety, the importance of play to a child’s development, and how to posi-tively guide children’s behavior. Students learned what to do in case of emergencies and the proper care and feeding of babies. Equipped with this knowledge, students en-tered into their “Potato Baby” project. For three days, students had to carry and care for their baby. They made baby scrapbooks to accompany this endeavor. Students wrote letters to their children with advice about what it is like to be a 6th grad-er. They journaled about their experiences daily. Many learned how hard it is to always be respon-sible for another person. We completed the semester by learning ba-sic sewing skills which were then applied to create their own teddy bear. It was amazing to see how creative the students are! We genuinely had fun working and helping one another with ideas and solving problems together. It was a wonderful way to end the semester.

High School - Food and Culture Similar to middle school, students in the HS Food and Cultures classes learned all the basic kitchen skills needed to successfully create prod-ucts together. Once ready, we entered the kitchens to explore the geographical cuisine of Mexico, Ita-ly, France, Greece, Ireland, Asia, Eastern Europe, and of course America! Besides some of the basic techniques such as baking, boiling, sauteing, and frying; students gained and practiced many new culinary skills that

can be adapted into other recipes. Some of these included proper knife skills, kneading dough, and making a roux to thicken sauces and soups. The most fun was had by all in our Top Chef pizza challenge where students competed against one another to make the best pizza. Perhaps we will see one of them on television someday?

Life Skills After getting acquainted, our life skills stu-dents started the year practicing skills needed for positive character development. We then learned about recycling and made a garbage container us-ing recycled cereal boxes. Next, we focused our attention on good handwashing practices for our cooking unit to promote food safety. We acquired nutrition and wellness knowledge, putting into ac-tion ways to reduce stressors, eat healthy foods, and get more exercise. We had fun activities sur-rounding different food groups that culminated in a recipe we prepared together which focused on that food group. A special thanks to all the stu-dents who helped me so much with the laundry the whole year. You are awesome! With a grateful heart, I would like to thank all of the staff, administration, the Board of Edu-cation and especially parents for embracing the Family and Consumer Sciences program this past year. Through your support and collaboration, the children in this community gained valuable skills that will help them to be more independent and productive, as they journey through the next chap-ters of their lives.

ROOKIE INSPIRATION AWARD FOR THE DEVILBOTS

By: Mrs. Gina Brienza


Clayton Huey Community Saves Lives Clayton Huey Elementary School was honored with the Pacesetter Award on June 14th, 2013 from the New York Blood Center. This award refl ects the two blood drives that

were held at Clayton Huey Elementary School during the 2012 school year. Along with all the community members and staff, 175 pints of blood was donated. Some of our fi fth grade students volun-teered their time as Little Doctors. The Little

Doctors Program® is an opportunity for stu-dents to help donors by provided juice and snack. I had the great pleasure, along with PTA Vice President Maria Estes to accept this award. Thank you to all who have made this possible.

Clayton Huey Elementary School collaborated with the Asthma and Allergy Coalition to promote asthma awareness, and presented a program at the Cen-ter Moriches School District’s Health and Wellness Committee meeting. The Health and Wellness Committee meets monthly to discuss Health and Wellness is-

sues such as asthma, nutrition, and obesity as well as many other issues affecting the health of our students. The goal of this committee is to promote a healthy learning environment. The Asthma and Allergy Coalition paired up with St. Jo-seph’s College to send nurses to Clayton Huey Elementary school to work with students

with asthma. Parents, the school nurse, Mrs. Hardwick, Mrs. Esp, and cafeteria, recess, and library personnel all worked as a team so students with asthma could attend this educational program during their lunch/re-cess period without losing in-structional time. The students learned about how to manage their asthma symptoms and how

to use their inhalers more effec-tively. The goal of the program was to help students better con-trol their asthma and miss less instructional time. The students were given complimentary allergy free pil-low cases and asthma inhaler chambers. The students enjoyed the program and showed an in-creased knowledge of asthma.

Elementary Assistant Principal Mrs. Jacqueline Esp and PTA Vice President Mrs. Maria Estes with the award.

Center Moriches fi fth grade volunteers, the “Little Doctors.”

CLAYTON HUEY ELEMENTARY: TO YOUR HEALTH & WELL-BEING

By: Mrs. Christine Schmutzler, School Nurse


Patriotic Performances

The Clayton Huey Elementary School 4th and 5th Grade Choruses culminated their year of hard work by presenting selections from many genres and styles of music at the Spring Concert on May 13, 2013. Highlights included songs by favorite composers, Teresa Jennings and Sally Albrecht, and folk and musical the-atre numbers. Patriotic songs were performed honoring our local service men and women and veterans, past and present. The 5th Grade NYSSMA Competition vocalists lead the Star-Spangled Banner. Words of appreciation and dedication were offered by Madeline Rank sister of Callie Rank who is now serving in Afghanistan. The 4th Grade Chorus honored those by singing “How I Love My America.” Pictured are: Frederick Caputo, Katherine Raimondi, Robert Powers and Louis Baer, who served - and 4th grade chorus mem-bers, Emma, Matthew, Silvana, Marina, and Anthony. The students were honored to give thanks to all through their music and song.

By: Virginia Mesiano, Elementary Chorus Director

The Art Show, organized by Ms. Brubaker and Mrs. Blumberg, was an outstanding display of the hard work the children have put into their projects throughout the year. The artwork, ALL completed by the elementary and middle school students, is always organized in a manner that rivals the galleries in SOHO. The annual event is one the entire community looks forward to, and this year’s displays did not disappoint. From clay candies and hearts created by our fi rst grade students, to the copper masks created by the eighth grade, the show was something this learning community is extremely proud of!

While Mother Nature was not very cooperative, many com-munity members shared their appreciation for a wonderful, well-organized event despite the weather. A special thanks goes to the physical education department whose leadership was paramount in the success of the day’s activities. The children were engaged in multiple relay events and were treated to Italian Ices thanks to the generosity of the CMPTA. Ironically, many parents stated that it was easier to watch their own child’s participation and, with the schedule, many family members were able to observe children in multiple grade levels participate. If you have any suggestions regarding the day, you are welcome to share them with us as we continuously look for ways to make the day as special as possible.

Young Artists Create Impressive Art Show

CH Indoor Field Day: Baseball Theme a “Homerun”


Presentation of ValedictorianRenee Nelson

Presentation of SalutatorianAnthony LaRosa

US Congressional Academy NomineesKendall MockridgeTristen Sess

US Coast Guard Academy AppointmentKendall Mockridge

US Merchant Marine Academy Appointment Tristen Sess

Congressional Certifi cate of Merit Award Kendall Mockridge

Principal’s Leadership AwardJarad Vollkommer

County Executive Public Service Award Jarad Vollkommer

NYS Attorney General’s Triple “C” AwardsMaryam Imam Stephen Maltz

NYS Comptroller Achievement AwardTristen Sess

Daughters of the American Revolution Award Rachel Ferrante

Perfect Attendance AwardJennifer Winslow

CSIP 100+ ClubRachel FerranteTimothy HolmesMarissa JanikDylan MadiganShayne O’Brien

Art Department Awards Kaleigh KesslerKevin Noonan

Business Department AwardsSamantha Alcus Amanda Ringhoff

English Department Awards Kathleen BerryJeffrey CarpenterPeter CravenRachel FerranteDylan JonesJacqueline MaidaDaniel MolloyRenee NelsonTristan SessJarad Vollkommer Health Studies AwardsJacqueline MaidaEric Birmingham

L.O.T.E. Department Awards

French Caroline EllisMelissa FitzgeraldAnthony LaRosa Daniel McCarthy Danae Platt

SpanishJill AlmondDylan LaSorsaJacqueline MaidaKendall MockridgeShayne O’Brien

Math Department AwardsCaroline Ellis David LivotiRachel Ferrante Ashley MarkstallerAlix Getreu Ariana MonacoRhiannon Kanige Shayne O’BrienVanessa Lewis Kourtney O’Henry

Music Department AwardsRachel Ferrante - Band Caroline Ellis - Chorus

Physical Education Department AwardsAlexander Bell Takia Plummer

Science Department AwardsAlix GetreuDylan LaSorsa Kevin NoonanAshley MarkstallerAndrew Montefusco Renee Nelson Shayne O’BrienCheyenne RaimondiNick TysonJarad Vollkommer

Social Studies Department Awards James AdamoEdgar AmayaAlexander BellCaroline EllisRachel FerranteKrysta IngrahamMarissa JanikDylan LaSorsaCheyenne RaimondiRaymond Strebel

Technology Department AwardsTyler ErhardtMichael Vitale

Senior Class Offi cers Recognition AwardsJarad Vollkommer, PresidentRenee Nelson, Vice PresidentAnnaMaria Monroig, SecretaryShayne O’Brien, Treasurer

National Honor SocietyAnnaMaria Monroig, PresidentCheyenne Raimondi, Vice PresidentRachel Ferrante, SecretaryKendall Mockridge, Treasurer

Association of the Moriches Community ScholarshipJill AlmondEdgar AmayaJeffrey CarpenterRachel FerranteArianna MonacoShayne O’BrienTakia Plummer

Brookhaven Memorial Hospital AwardShayne O’Brien

Bagel Deli “PIE” Award (Putting in Effort) Cheyenne Raimondi

Center Moriches Athletic Booster Club AwardsEdgar AmayaRaymond Strebel

Center Moriches Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary Award Ariana Monaco

Center Moriches Fire Department Awards Dylan MadiganAriana MonacoErik SaetranDerek Thomas

Center Moriches Fire Department Sandberg AwardBrianna MasciaRyan Noonan

Center Moriches Paraprofessional Scholarship James KellyEric Tietjen

Chamber of Commerce Award Nicole ImpastatoJill Almond

Chapman Awards Dylan JonesAnthony LaRosa Cheyenne RaimondiRenee Nelson

Choral Society of the Moriches Caroline Ellis

Danallison Achievement Award Jeffrey ColpasEric Thorsen

David Turpin Scholarship AwardNick Tyson

East Moriches PTO Humanitarian Award Peter Craven

Educational Awards, Unkechaug NationAlexander BellMalaisha EdwardsVanessa LewisTakia Plummer

Long Island Blood Services ScholarshipTakia Plummer

Making a Difference High School Scholarship “NEFCU” Takia Plummer

Moriches Bay Civic Association Citizenship Award Rachel Ferrante

Moriches Bay Little League ScholarshipCheyenne RaimondiJarad Vollkommer

MYO ScholarshipSamantha AlcusJill AlmondJacqueline MaidaBrianna MasciaRenee Nelson

MSG Varsity Scholarship Dylan Jones David LivotiDaniel McCarthy Shayne O’Brien Alex Yu Anthony Yu

NYSED Academic Excellence AwardsAshley Markstaller Renee NelsonShayne O’BrienCheyenne Raimondi

Parlato Family Scholarship Shayne O’Brien

PTA Scholarships Jill AlmondRobert BarrJeffrey CarpenterRaymond Strebel

Rico’s Memorial Scholarships Jill AlmondRobert BarrAlexander BellTyler ErhardtAshley Markstaller

Robin Gross Memorial Scholarship Jeffery CarpenterAshley Murdock

Rotary Club of the Moriches ScholarshipsTimothy AnthonyKourtney O’Henry

SEPTA Scholarships A’Kyse BrownPeter Sportiello

Thomas Sinnickson Memorial Scholarship Shayne O’Brien


Congratulations to the Center Moriches High School Students of the Month for May. In photo, from left to right: Ms. Ingoglia, Assistant Princi-pal, T`Keyah, Mathematics; Mike, Health; Gabrielle, English; Zach, Science; Anthony, LOTE; Mekai, Physical Education; Cassidy, Citizenship; Justice, Chorus; Rachel, Business; Steven, Guidance; David, Technology; Louis, Art; Brittany, Citizenship; Sean, Social Studies; Jake, Band; and High School Principal Mr. Casswell.

M A Y S T U D E N T S O F T H E M O N T H

SUNY GeneseoSUNY New PaltzSUNY BuffaloSt. John’s UniversityNova Southeastern UniversityUniversity of ConnecticutRochester Institute of TechnologyUnited States Coast Guard AcademySt. Lawrence UniversityRensselaer Polytechnic InstitutePolytechnic Institute of NYUUniversity of FloridaUniversity of MiamiHampshire CollegeStonybrook UniversityPace UniversityWest Virginia UniversityNortheastern UniversityProvidence CollegeSacred Heart UniversitySeton Hall UniversitySUNY CortlandSUNY OswegoUniversity of TampaBinghamton University

SUNY FarmingdaleHofstra UniversityUniversity of RochesterSyracuse UniversitySUNY AlbanyUniversity of Vermont (College of Engineering and Mathematics)Washington and Jefferson CollegeSUNY OneontaSUNY PotsdamYork College of PennsylvaniaButler UniversityUniversity of DenverLoyola UniversityUniversity of MaineMarquette UniversityUniversity of MarylandUniversity of Massachusetts, AmherstMcGill UniversityPepperdine UniversityUniversity of PittsburghUnion CollegeBoston UniversityAdelphi UniversityFordham University

University of Rhode IslandThe CitadelOld Dominion UniversitySUNY Maritime CollegeUnited States Merchant Marine AcademyVirginia Military InstituteSUNY DelhiSiena CollegeSt. Joseph’s CollegeUniversity of California at Santa Barbara

2013 College/University Acceptances

This is only a snapshot of the prestigious institutions that our seniors will attend in the fall.


Over 40,000 Box Tops for Education Collected!By: Christine Buff

Dear Center Moriches Families: THANK YOU SO MUCH for all your support throughout this past school year. We have really ramped up the clipping and collecting of Box Tops. Since Sep-tember, 2012, we have collected over 40,000 Box Tops!

Great job everyone! We are working on replenishing and updating the school with some new recess items. Please keep the momentum going. Collect all sum-

mer and tape or glue them on the Box Tops Bucks. You can fi nd a generic form on The Clayton Huey School’s website at http://www.centermoriches.k12.ny.us/claytonhuey/page/backpack-news/361. Please keep the Box Tops Bucks at home until you receive a fl yer announcement

with the next store date. We received such amazing feedback from the kids and parents let-ting us know how excited everyone was to come and “shop” at the stores. If you have any NEW items you would like to donate to the store, please contact me at [email protected]. We will also be collecting gently used books too. I would be happy to arrange a pick up day and time. Thank you, once again, to all the parents and organizations that donated to the cause, whether it was with donations for the store, or time given to help staff the store! Without you all, it would not be possible. HAPPY SUMMER EVERYONE...The CMPTA thanks you for your support.

It is with great pleasure that the Center Moriches School District announces the appoint-ment of Mrs. Melissa Bates as the new principal for the Middle School. This appointment comes as a result of the retirement of the only Middle School Principal that the District has ever known, Ms. Pa-tricia Cunningham, who will be leaving for a well-earned retirement. Mrs. Bates, a life-long learner, has both a Bachelors of Arts in Health Education and a Bach-elor of Science in Physical Education, both con-ferred as she graduated in four years, Summa Cum Laude, from Rhode Island College. Mrs. Bates re-ceived her Masters of Arts from Stony Brook Uni-versity after graduating from Rhode Island College. Mrs. Bates continued deepening her understanding of education and administration with post gradu-ate study in Educational leadership, leading to certifi cation as both a School Building Leader and School District Leader, also at Stony Brook Uni-versity. She has recently completed the fi rst year of coursework in the St. John’s Doctoral program, studying Educational Administration and Supervi-sion. Mrs. Aileen O’Rourke, a principal in the East Islip Schools and one of her colleagues in the Doc-toral program stated, “I consider Mrs. Bates to be an extraordinary educator. She is knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and truly dedicated to her profession. She is always willing to put forth a wholehearted effort...with amazing results. Mrs. Bates will be an asset to the Center Moriches Middle School.” In the one year she has been employed by Center Moriches Schools, she has represented our district at Network Team Institutes run by the State Education Department in Albany, Chief Informa-tion Offi cer meetings at ESBOCES, and contin-ued her professional development as a member of our administrative team in teacher supervision and evaluation. Prior to her employment in our district, Mrs. Bates was a tenured teacher having taught both middle school and elementary school students, as well as completing a one year adminis-trative internship at the Middle School and district level. Ms. Pamela Travis Moore, Mrs. Bates’ for-mer supervising Middle School Principal refl ects, “In all of my 40+ years in education, as a teacher and a 23 year Middle School Principal, I never knew a “newbie” more qualifi ed for administra-tion, by temperament and experience than Melissa Bates. Mrs. Bates is fi rst and foremost an outstand-ing teacher and a “natural” at the middle level;

respecting every child and expecting the BEST from each of them. She identifi ed goals for them to achieve which had meaning or value to them, and then she (repeatedly) witnessed them striving to achieve those goals - and realizing success!” During the extensive interview process, can-didates were questioned by multiple committees which incorporated multiple stakeholder groups including parents, community members, teach-ers, administrators, students, and support staff etc. Here are some of the comments made by members of the various committees: Mr. Chris O’Brien, Middle School Teacher: “I’m really looking forward to working with Melis-sa Bates as she has expressed the desire to continue our school’s strong sense of family that her prede-cessor Pat Cunningham started. Her knowledge of the latest New York State educational initiatives will be a real plus for us as we continue to strive for excellence.” Mr. Edward Casswell, the High School Prin-cipal: “As with each sunrise and sunset, we con-gratulate Mrs. Cunningham for her dedicated years of service to the Center Moriches School District and welcome Mrs. Melissa Bates into our school community family! We are excited to work closely with our new Middle School Principal and look forward to a rich and rewarding collaborative rela-tionship. Mrs. Bates will certainly add her distinc-tive strengths to the Middle School family and help reinforce school traditions and forge new pathways for our Middle School students.” Tom Marzagalli, President of the Center Moriches Teachers’ Association: “I am obligated to consider fi rst the best interests of the members of my Association. When instances arrive wherein those best interests clearly harmonize with what is in the best interests of both the students in Center Moriches and the community at large, I am elated. Such was the case with my analysis and subsequent endorsement of Melissa Bates to take over the ad-ministrative lead at the Middle School next year. Of the four fi nalists who addressed the Middle School Principal Search Committee, Mrs. Bates was, to my mind, the candidate nonpareil. Her enthusiasm was infectious; her presence in front of the com-mittee commanded both respect and engagement; her knowledge of the State’s mandates expectations and standards impressed. On top of all of that, her unique experience in the District had clearly con-ferred upon her an understanding of the District’s

logistics, its char-acter and composi-tion, and its vari-ous needs, both those com-mon to all middle schools on the Island and across the state and those specifi c to the Center Moriches School District. In addition, she had already culti-vated important relationships between herself and the various groups within the district, individual members of those groups, and members of the stu-dent body and community at large. Recommending Ms. Bates was, for this 30+ year veteran of edu-cation, a “no-brainer”. Subsequent conversations I had with members of the teachers association who had volunteered to join the search committee as well as other members of that committee con-fi rmed for me that my impressions of this candidate were grounded and accurate. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, this passionate and knowledge-able educator does not represent a short-term fi x for the middle school. She exemplifi es the type of leader who teachers and students will want to work with next year, the year after that and for many years down the road. She will lead by example, and she will encourage the plurality of students, teach-ers and parents to follow that lead, a collaboration of efforts that will lead to conspicuous success and unprecedented achievement in the Center Moriches Middle School.” Mrs. Bates will bring her passion and un-bridled enthusiasm to the District as the Middle School continues to tackle the ongoing challenges associated with student growth and teacher ac-countability. Mrs. Cunningham, our out-going principal says about Mrs. Bates, “I believe the Mid-dle School will continue to move forward under Mrs. Bates’ leadership and guidance. She will fi nd the Middle School to be a warm and welcoming place for students, parents, and staff. Mrs. Bates will be welcomed as the new leader.” This administrative appointment began on July 13, 2013.

Melissa Bates

New Principal Named for Center Moriches Middle School

http://www.centermoriches.k12.ny.us/claytonhuey/page/backpack-news/361


Ron Gelard of the DEC visited the sixth grade classes to share his knowledge and expertise of Long Island tidal areas. The students enjoyed learning from his interactive activities, artifacts and stories. Students enhanced their knowledge of high tide and low tide, and they took a closer look at organisms that live in the intertidal zone. It was fascinating to examine all of the skeletal remains, the bivalves, and the baleen from a humpback whale. The classes had fun “being” various indigenous spe-cies as they created a food chain and simulated typical movement in the intertidal zone. His visit enhanced our Oceanography unit and it was an exciting experience to examine our beloved shoreline.

By: Erika Diem, Grade 6 Science Teacher

By: Mrs. Courtney Fabian, H/S Social Worker

Center Moriches’s Progressive “Friends and Buddies” Club Supports Real Community Involvement!

This school year Center Moriches introduced a Friends and Buddies Club into the high school. Our club is a nice mix of general education students and those receiving special educations services within our district. The goal is to form friendships that are mutu-ally enriching while supporting the belief that we all can be actively involved in our school community. Our club began this year with approximately thirty members and new students were welcomed at almost every session. Our year began with many icebreaker activities that introduced our members and helped formed friendships. From there our friend-ships have blossomed and carry over into our daily school environ-ment. Other activities have consisted of a Fall Feast, Scavenger hunts, crafts, game days and a night at the Theatre in our very own school to see our Friends perform in The Wiz. We have had a fun year and more events are yet to come! Early in the year, a team from The Self- Advocacy Associa-tion of New York State, presented a workshop at a Center Moriches Septa meeting for students, parents and staff called “From Student to Self-Advocate.” Afterwards, the Regional Director of SANYS (The Self-Advocacy Association of NYS) Mrs. Bridget Cariello contacted me. She was excited to share information about the work her organi-zation does and how our club’s mission is very similar. Mrs. Cariello continued to explain that SANYS’s goal is to support the idea that no community is complete unless everyone has the opportunity to be involved and live their lives as full and contributing citizens of their community. By enhancing each individual’s self -advocacy skills we teach and support people to speak up for ourselves and each other. Mrs. Cariello was so pleased about the work of club that she helped coordinate a guest speaker for our students to meet. Sky Burke, a sixth grade student at Sachem Schools recently visited our club and discussed her own experiences with becoming the Self-advocacy Youth Ambassador at SANYS. Sky has been presenting her needs at her own CSE meetings with the use of her I Pad since she was in third grade. In April, Sky received the Fred J Epstein Youth Achieve-ment Award for her dedication to helping her self and others learn to advocate and has authored a children’s book that is being published title, “I am Just Me.” Our very own ninth grade student, Marilyn Cariello, also visited the club and shared her experiences as the Sr. Youth Advisor with SANYS. She stated “I got so much out of the internships I completed at SANYS that I would have never expected. I learned how the world perceives people with disabilities and how

I can play an active role in changing that. Also my ability to speak publicly and my self-confi dence has grown through this experience! I presented to an audience of over fi ve hundred people in Septem-ber.” Both Sky and Marilyn are currently presenting to schools and community groups Island wide and host regular self-advocacy meet-ings monthly where students can connect and engage in learning to make choices and take ownership of their own decisions. The Self Advocacy Association of New York State has an offi ce in Hauppauge. This summer they are offering student internship op-portunities to 8 young people across Long Island interested in getting involved. Interns will learn about disability history, sign language and develop their own self-advocacy youth materials all while build-ing personal leadership abilities. Students will have an opportunity to develop a working youth leadership council and present their fi nal project at The Self-Advocacy Association of NYS regional confer-ence here on Long Island. This is a great opportunity for any student who has a goal of working in a helping profession or any students looking to enhance their self- advocacy skills. In Center Moriches we are proud to say that Ricardo Soto Head of Special Services, Su-perintendent Russell Stewart, our administrators and School Board Members are supportive of the important work of the Friends and Buddies Club and our continued collaboration with The Self-Advo-cacy Association of NYS. For more information about Friends and Buddies or to apply for the internship please contact Mrs. Fabian at 631-878-0092 or The Self-Advocacy Association of NYS at 631-434-6936 or visit www.sanys.org. Help build a community where every voice counts!

The Tides of Long Island


Our T-shirt says it all: “TEAM- Together Everyone Achieves More.” The Center Moriches Athletic Boost-er Club is proud to announce that we will be merging with the Red Devil Pride Club, the football/cheerleading sector of the booster club. The two clubs will be combing to form one larger team of parents, coaches and volunteers, hoping to be at more events and raise more money for Cen-ter Moriches Athletics. The Booster Club will be doing their normal events this up-coming 2013-2014 school year with this year’s elected board mem-bers; President Kim Nolan, Vice President Jeff Foster, Treasurer Kathi Finnegan, Secretary Kathy Grillo, and Membership Chairperson Lisa Castellano. From Homecoming Weekend to Relay for Life, the newly

renovated trailer will be open for busi-ness. Running more summer camps

this off-season and hoping to start new events in the future, now that two clubs can put

their heads together, since two is better than one. The Center Moriches Athletic Booster Club, which will now be known as the Red Devil Pride Club for administrative purposes, en-courages community members to get involved this school year in any way they can. With two clubs put together it means double the ideas, double the enthusiasm, and could always use more volunteers. A spe-cial thank you to Mr. Bob Nankervis is also necessary being that he has made our trailer better than ever, now lets put it to good use! The fi rst meeting of the 2013-2014 school year will be held on Tuesday, September 17, 2013. Hope to see you there!

RED DEVILS SHOW IN BASEBALL

T.E.A.M. - Together Everyone Achieves More

NEW PE PROGRAMS THIS FALL!

Going forward into the 2013-2014 school year, Mrs. Plush and Mr. Scott, the Center Moriches Middle School Physical Education Teachers will be adding two new units in the curriculum. Mrs. Plush will be introducing the fi tness unit of Step Aerobics for grades 6-8. It is a great way to burn calories and become healthier because it provides al-ternates between high and low impact ex-ercises, while also helping to work all the muscles in the body. The key to an effec-tive exercise program is to incorporate the aspect of cardiovascular exercise. This al-lows the body to burn calories effectively all while working up a good sweat and increases blood circulation throughout the body. Mr. Scott will be introducing the sport of Badminton for grades 6-8. Playing Badminton conditions and strengthens the heart, provides aerobic exercise and cre-ates an increase in leg strength, fl exibility and hand-eye coordination. Giving teens a fun and competitive lifetime activity they can take with them through the years is very important in Physical Education. Our Physical Education curriculum is moving towards increasing our focus to incorporate more life-long fi tness, while still making it fun and active for our teens. We are very excited moving forward with our classes in the upcoming school year and to have these additions and the oppor-tunity to teach Step Aerobics and Badmin-ton.

The Nomination Form for the Center Moriches Alumni of Distinction can be downloaded from the CM Website: www.cmschools.org. The form must be postmarked by August 1, 2013.

Center Moriches’ Red Devils baseball returned to the playoffs after a two year hiatus. The team fi nished the season in a tie for second place in the league with a 12-6 record (13-9 overall), and the Red Devils were the Num-ber 2 Seed in the Class B Tourna-ment, which was eventually won by Number 1 Seed Southampton. Several players received post season honors. Juniors Michael Colom-bi and Patrick Bryant garnered All-League and All County awards, and senior Jarad Vollkommer was selected for the All-Aca-demic Team. Michael, who has ac-cepted a baseball scholar-ship to Division 1 Longwood University in Virginia, had a fi ne year at the plate and on the mound. He fi nished with a .358 batting average, 3 homeruns and 21 RBIs. On the mound, he was 3-2 with an excellent 2.10 ERA. He recorded 57 strikeouts in 40 innings pitched. Patrick had a standout season both on the mound and at the plate also. Patrick had a .479 batting average and 25 RBIs, which led the team in both categories. He had a .519 on base percentage, which means he was on base half of his plate appearances. On the mound, he had an undefeated league season, going 6-0. Overall, he had 64 strikeouts in 54 innings and

a 1.43 ERA. He only walked six batters all sea-son. Patrick has accepted

a scholarship to Division 1

Louisville Uni-versity.

Other major contributors to the team’s success this year were:

• Senior Jarad Vollkommer, who caught the majority of the games this year and hit a respectable .316. • Junior Kevin O’Brien, who hit .290 with 11 RBIs and played an out-standing fi rst base this season.• Freshman Stephen Bryant, who solidifi ed our infi eld with his de-

fense and was solid at the plate with a .267 BA.• Senior Tyler Erhardt who hit a solid .283 with 9 RBIs.

• Junior Sean Finnegan with a .323 BA and 11 RBIs while play-ing a solid outfi eld.

• Senior Jeff Carpenter, who was called on to step in after an injury to fi ll in behind the plate and did a great job.

• Senior Bobby Barr who was asked to fi ll in as the number 3 starter and play third base and did an admirable job at both.

Other players who did their part and helped get us to the playoffs were sophomore Dan Franchi, sophomore Anthony Iaccarino, junior Jon Rubino, junior Scott McVetty, junior James Schaefer, senior Dan Molloy, and junior Bryan Foster.


Center Moriches High School Depar tment o f Ath l e t i c s

Special Achievements Spring 2013Name Grade Sport Award Allison, Christopher 11 Tennis All LeagueAndersen, Alexa 9 Softball All LeagueBirmingham, Eric 12 Lacrosse All Division; All CountyBrantmeyer, Michael 10 Track All LeagueBryant, Patrick 11 Baseball All CountyColombi, Michael 11 Baseball All CountyCreen, Erin 10 Softball All DivisionDenton, Michael 10 Tennis All LeagueDonegan, Ryleigh 10 Track All LeagueFahie, Torie 11 Softball All DivisionFey, Emily 11 Lacrosse All DivisionHoran, Preston 11 Tennis All LeagueLivoti, David 12 Tennis SC Team SportsmanshipMayen, Dora 12 Track All LeagueNicholes, Georgie 11 Track All LeagueNolan, Kiley 11 Softball All DivisionPlummer, Herbie 11 Track All LeagueRaimondi, Cheyenne 12 Softball All DivisionSchenck, Pam 11 Lacrosse Unsung HeroSmith, Cierra 9 Softball All CountyStrebel, Daniel 11 Tennis All LeagueVolkmann, Paige 8 Lacrosse All DivisionVollkommer, Jarad 12 Baseball Academic All LeagueZito, Andrew 9 Lacrosse Rookie of the Year

Team Accompl i s hment sVarsity Softball County PlayoffsVarsity Baseball County Playoffs - Second Place in LeagueBoys Varsity Lacrosse 2012-13 NYSPHSAA, Inc. Scholar/Athlete Team AwardGirls Varsity Lacrosse 2012-13 NYSPHSAA, Inc. Scholar/Athlete Team Award Varsity Baseball 2012-13 NYSPHSAA, Inc. Scholar/Athlete Team AwardVarsity Softball 2012-13 NYSPHSAA, Inc. Scholar/Athlete Team AwardVarsity Girls Track 2012-13 NYSPHSAA, Inc. Scholar/Athlete Team AwardVarsity Boys Tennis 2012-13 NYSPHSAA, Inc. Scholar/Athlete Team AwardJV Girls Lacrosse Outstanding Spring Sportsmanship Team

228 students participated in Spring Sports at the High School, and 94 students participated in Spring Sports at the Middle School


Cracking under pressure can be the downfall of individuals, couples, teams, even companies. Things were going good but all of a sudden some-one made a mistake, the other side is gain-ing ground, this all of a sudden does not seem so easy. Whether it is on the fi eld, the court, in the gym, in the of-fi ce, the hallway, an exam, an inter-view, pressure is present. It is how we deal with that pressure that will decide who is successful. Being a student athlete poses a tremendous opportunity to be ex-posed to pressure situations in a dif-ferent environment and learn how to deal with them. Bases loaded, two outs, tie game, you are bound to feel a little bit of sweat on your forehead. But do you give in? Do you let the situation dictate how you will go about playing the game, or do you do what you can to stop it? Now lets say that the outcome you wanted to happen, did not happen. Does this new element of pressure make your attitude, your body lan-guage, your mental stability worse? Being involved in sports can help learn to cope with these situations. There will always be a winner and a loser, pressure imposed on both sides, and being the loser comes with the task of examining why the pressure deteriorated your side and not the other. When the going gets tough, are you the tough one that gets going? Athletics has helped many fi gure that out; teaching that hard work, motivation, and a posi-tive attitude can dominate basically any situation. Besides just teaching team-work, communication, creating friendships, and all of the other obvious things; being a student athlete has taught me how to deal with real life situations. You do not directly think back to a specifi c inning, specifi c opponent and situ-ation (although some people do); it is the feeling that you have already become accustomed to, the trouble-shooting tactics that have already been tested, and the mentality that you have acquired to deal with any-

thing thrown your way. When given an opportunity, you have to take it, whether that be the opportunity to steal second base or interview for a new job. But without trying to steal second base in your life, knowing there is the possibility that you get thrown out but knowing you have practiced this enough to know you can do it and having the courage to do it under pressure, you will nev-er learn what it is like to deal with those situations. Once the pressure sets in, if you crack or someone you are working with does, plays a huge roll in athletics as well as life. Hav-ing a positive attitude and being able to bounce back from a mistake are two skills that a large majority of people lack, but student athletes tend to posses. There will always be a winner and a loser, but it is what you gain from being in both spots that will make you a better person. Author Maya Angelou once said “I’ve learned that you shouldn’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back.” Knowing what to throw back, when and how comes from doing it before. Play-ing sports gives kids the chance to try that out so when it comes down to it, it is like they have done it be-fore. Now I’m not saying that while I was taking the SAT exam when there were fi ve minutes left and I had fi ve questions left to do, I stop to think about that game in April two seasons ago that I was pitching and there were not outs, winning run on third… that would be a little absurd. However, being in that spe-cifi c game situation allowed me to feel the increased pulse, adrenalin, all or nothing sensation, making it seem not that terrible the next time it happened.

Under PressureBy: Kiley Nolan 11th Grade Varsity Volleyball

and Softball Player

CM Special Olympics Athletic Club

Clayton Huey “Marathon” This year’s marathon lived up to the hype! The students of Clayton Huey put in a lot of hard work to achieve the goal of fi n-ishing the marathon. We are very proud of all the participants for their dedication. We had four outstanding races, and the following students re-ceived medals for their excellent achievements: 4th Grade Girls: 1st Lola Kochanskyj; 2nd Kayla Mitchell; 3rd Marina Alvarez 4th Grade Boys: 1st Ryan McDermott; 2nd Sam Schrage; 3rd Joshua Lehr5th Grade Girls: 1st Hanna Corwin; 2nd Madison Sommeso; 3rd Ste-fanie Stypulkowski5th Grade Boys: 1st Jack Kelly; 2nd Daniel Hromada; 3rd Jake Dagos-tino


Reading well is at the heart of all learning and necessary for student success. Children who can’t read well, struggle with learning and suf-fer long term effects academically, socially and emotionally. A partnership between home and school is critical in enhancing and ensuring stu-dent success. This summer, to support indepen-dent reading, Clayton Huey students are going to be expected to read throughout the summer season and your help is needed! As stated by Richard Allington, professor of literacy at the University of Tennessee, “Evi-dence suggests three months of learning is lost for the average student who doesn’t read during the summer. The loss can be as much as three to fi ve months for struggling readers.” There is a great deal of research to support this state-ment. In partnership with the Center Moriches Public Library, a summer reading committee has worked diligently to develop a fun-fi lled summer reading program that all students will be excited to participate in. All details will be sent home and there will be great gifts distrib-uted to students in September who completed the activities as described in the packets. A list of leveled titles can also be found on our website as another resource for parents. We are truly hop-ing to strengthen our home-school partnership and work collaboratively to enhance your child’s reading skills.

Summer Reading Survival Guide for Parents As some parents know, getting children to read over the summer can be exhausting and frustrating but it doesn’t have to be! To ease this arduous task, here are a few helpful tips:

#1: Have your son/daughter read the book in in-tervals of ten pages if they are reading a chapter book. Once your child has fi nished the ten pages, suggest s/he write a few lines about what was read (address points in outline). A child’s com-prehension will be improved if they are able to understand the plot as it unfolds. This process will certainly assist with enhancing a child’s ability to follow and comprehend the events in the story. A graphic organizer might also be used to accomplish this and they can be found on our website under summer reading.

#2: Do not avoid a novel because of its size. If your child fi nds a synopsis of the book interest-ing, but is not impressed that the novel is over 100 pages, perhaps you can fi nd the book on tape/CD. This format of the book can be enjoyed by the whole family on long car trips, or will transform a trip to the beach into an educational experience. My only recommendation would be to have your child read along while s/he is listen-ing as it is critical that students visually experi-ence the language as well and read the text at the same time they are listening to the phrasing on the tape/CD.

#3: Have your child go online to research some of the topics mentioned in the book. This will build the background knowledge necessary to make more sense of the events in the book. It is critical to have knowledge of the context of the book such as the setting and time period. As we know, characters and plot differ based on the set-ting of the book so a child can research the time period or a specifi c item mentioned that s/he is unfamiliar with.

#4: Chat with your local librarian who can easily recommend a handful of wonderful choices that will be interesting to your child based on his/her hobbies and interests. The CM Public Library is very familiar with the leveled system and can as-sist you in fi nding a “just right” book.

#5: Focus on the ENJOYMENT of reading. During the school year, children read for knowledge and information, but summer reading is solely focused on entertainment. If a child happens to learn new and wonderful informa-tion from a book they are reading that is a bonus (and one that happens often). It is more important that a child learn that having a good book to read is a relaxing and fun activity when it is the RIGHT book!

Reading is not meant to be painful for anyone involved. It is our hope that your child will fi nd a number of books which speak to his/her interests as well as abilities. As our students prepare for the academic challenges that lie ahead, independent reading will help them achieve success in the future. If you fol-low the link below students can even earn $ for reading!

New Summer Reading Program at Clayton HueyBy: Mrs. Kim Hardwick, Elementary School Principal

Meaningful Resources and Websites for Summer Reading:http://www.tdbank.com/summerreading/ http://www.ed.gov/parents/read/resources/readingtips/readingtips.pdfwww.readingrockets.org/bookswww.rif.orgwww.scholastic.com/summerreading/teachersandlibrarians.htmwww.starfall.comwww.letterpals.orghttp://www.readwritethink.org/beyondtheclassroom/summer/http://knoxnews.com/news/2009/may/26/a-need-to-read/

clayton huey is shining bright By: Jacqueline Esp

Dr. Seuss once said, “Why fi t in when you were born to stand out?” To enhance our character education curriculum, students in grades K-3 participated in exciting program geared to promoting self-worth and respect for everyone’s differences. Dur-ing the week of April 29-May 3, activities were implemented during the lunch periods to convey this important theme, “Everyone Deserves to Shine.” The week including crazy sunglasses and crazy cap contests. Students were also shining bright, showing of their shiniest sneakers and glittering name tags.

OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENTCENTER MORICHES SCHOOLS

APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP ONBOARD OF EDUCATION COMMITTEES

2013-2014

Membership on Board committees shall be open to residents, taxpayers, parents, teachers, and other employees of the district, subject to the approval and appointment by a majority of the school board. If you wish to be considered for mem-bership, please complete the form below and either mail it to the District Clerk at 311 Frowein Road, Center Moriches, New York 11934, no later than August 14, 2013.

According to Board policy, committees shall have the authority to study, investigate, and to make recommendations to the Board of Education. Committees established under this policy shall not be empowered to act beyond reporting to the Board of Education.

Name: __________________________________ Date: _________________Address: ________________________________________________________Telephone Number: _______________________________________________E-Mail Address: ___________________________________________________Days of Week Available: ____________________________________________Most Convenient Times: ____________________________________________

Listed below are the committees. Please circle the number of the committee you wish to volunteer to serve on.

Committees:

1. Curriculum and Instruction2. Technology3. Facility Advisory4. Legislative5. Emergency Preparedness Committee6. Health and Wellness Committee

School Opens on September 9th!SAVE THE DATES: UPCOMING EVENTSAugust 7: Sports PhysicalsAugust 14: Senior Pictures HS Library 8:30am - 1pmAugust 19: JV/Varsity Fall Sport - First PracticesAugust 21: Board of Education Meeting 7pmAugust 27: Grade 6 Orientation 10amAugust 28: Grade 9 Orientation 10am PTA Kindergarten Buddies 6pm September 4: Board of Education Meeting 7pmSeptember 9: First Day of School


Volume 19 Number 5 www.cmschools.org July 2013

the district news - center moriches school · pdf fileas well as recognizing three...

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