http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us Copyright 2013 Syntax Communications The Board of Education will hold a meeting on June 5th, 2013 at 8 p.m. in the MS/HS Mini-Theater. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10985 Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10989 Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Thank you to the LVCSD community for approving the 2013-2014 school budget! The results are as follows: Proposition 1: 2013-14 Budget: Passed Yes:1329 No:887 Proposition 2: Yes:1476 No:643 Proposition 3: Yes:1370 No:612 Proposition 4: LV Library – Passed Yes:582 No: 264 Two candidates, Susan Petersen Lubow and Kerian Carlstrom, have been elected to the Board of Education for a three-year term beginning July 1, 2013. Susan Petersen Lubow: 1330 Kerian Carlstrom:1052 John E. Hellyer Jr.:1027 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10995 Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Fifth graders at Locust Valley Intermediate School won second place in the Anthologies category of the Walt Whitman Birthplace Association’s 26th Annual Poetry Contest. The students, from Shari Zindman’s class, wrote poems following the theme, “Songs of the Open Road.” Mrs. Zindman has winners in this contest every year and said she is proud of the students for working so hard and being recognized for their efforts. Congratulations to Mrs. Zindman and all of her student poets! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=11021 Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Bayville Intermediate School had three winners in the Sagamore Hill National Historic Site National Park Week 2013 Poetry Contest. The BI students swept the fifth-grade category! Congratulations to first-place winner Nina Cialone, second-place winner Matthew Scicutella and third-place winner Daniella Bittner. BI Librarian mentored the young poets for the competition. In its first year, the poetry contest had 200 entries with only 16 winners, making the three awards for BI students very impressive! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=11022 Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Class of 2013 Graduation Saturday, June 22nd 4:00 PM Dear Seniors and Parents: At this time, I would ask you to review carefully the following points related to graduation: 1. The required graduation rehearsal for graduates will begin promptly at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, June 17th in the High School Auditorium. Caps and gowns as well as graduation tickets will be distributed at that time. Tickets will not be necessary if the event is outside. If weather is sufficiently inclement, graduation will occur in the auditorium and entry tickets will be required. Due to occupancy limits on that space, we are able to give only three guest tickets per graduate for the auditorium. However, guests without tickets will be able to view the ceremony in real time on CCTV in the air-conditioned Mini-Theatre or in the cafeteria. 2. Attendance at rehearsal is mandatory. If you have any question about the rehearsal or caps and gowns, please contact Ms. Wescott or Mr. DiGennaro. 3. Only students who have fulfilled all academic and behavioral requirements will be permitted to participate in the graduation ceremony. 4. Appropriate attire for young men includes a shirt and tie, dress slacks and dress shoes. Appropriate attire for young women includes a dress, skirt or dress pants, and dress shoes. It is recommended that young women wear low heels for comfort and safety as high heels can sink into the turf on the field. Jeans, shorts, sneakers or flip-flops are not appropriate dress. A graduate dressed inappropriately will not be allowed to participate in the ceremony. 5. Financial obligations for lost books and/or equipment must be satisfied before the end of the business day on Friday, June 14th. Students who have not met these financial obligations will not be able to pick up their cap & gown at rehearsal. All financial obligations must be met prior to graduation day. 6. If graduation is held outdoors, we will provide transportation service from our parking lot to the football field for those unable to walk. Furthermore, chairs for the elderly will be provided along the track in front of the stands. After the program ends, everyone is invited to share refreshments available near the main entrance of our school. 7. In case of rain, the graduation will be held in the Locust Valley High School Auditorium. The commencement exercises will be televised in the air-conditioned mini-theater and in the student cafeteria to accommodate those who do not have auditorium tickets. 8. Bestowing of Diplomas At the graduation ceremony, students receive only a diploma cover. The actual diploma will be available at the High School immediately following the ceremony. 9. There will be a photographer on site to take pictures during the ceremony. Each student will be photographed with Dr. McGuire as he or she receives the diploma. Lifetouch Photography will post the pictures at http://www.lifetouchevents.com. There is no obligation to purchase any pictures. Information on how to order pictures on-line will be included in each student’s graduation folder. Graduation is a special event for the graduates, their families and the school community. Let us all work together to maintain the dignity appropriate to the ceremony. Thank you for your cooperation and support. Sincerely, Kieran McGuire, Ed.D., Principal Alyssa Wescott and John DiGennaro, Graduation Advisors http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10984 Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Girls Varsity Track Division 4B Championships Success at the Division Championships

The Locust Valley Girls Track & Field team had a great showing at the Division 4B championships at Cold Spring Harbor. Four athletes earned All Division Honors. Senior Grace Murphy kicked off the afternoon in the opening race finishing 3nd place in the 400m hurdles with a time of 1:09.1. Senior Grainne O’Neill followed by earning All Division Honors in the 400m race with a 2nd place finish time of 1:01.2. Then Grace Murphy again made her mark in the 800m race finishing 3rd with a time of 2:24.7. In field events, sophomore Callie Catacosinos earned All Division honors in the High Jump by clearing the 4’6” bar, which gave her a 3rd place finish. In addition, sophomore Siobhan O'Neill earned All Division Honors in the Triple Jump by placing 3rd with a fantastic 30’6” jump marking a new personal best. The final portion of the meet featured the relays, where two of the LV girl’s teams finished with medals. First, the 4x800m relay team, consisting of Samantha Altimari, Siobhan O’Neill, Maddy Casalino and Grace Murphy, ran a combined 10:30.75, receiving 2nd place honors. Then, the 4x400m relay team, consisting of Haley Breen, Katie Ello, Roisin O’Neill and Grainne O’Neill, ran a combined 4:26.94, also receiving 2nd place honors. All Division Honors: ¥ Grace Murphy – All Division 400IH and 800m ¥ Grainne O’Neill – All Division 400m ¥ Callie Catacosinos – All Division High Jump (4’6”) ¥ Siobhan O’Neill – All Division Triple Jump (30’6”) Relay Medalists: ¥ 4x800, 2nd place, 10:30.75 o Sam Altimari o Siobhan O'Neill o Maddy Casalino o Grace Murphy ¥ 4x400, 2nd place, 4:26.94 o Haley Breen o Katie Ello o Roisin O'Neill o Grainne O'Neill Boys Track and Field Division Championships The Locust Valley Boys Track & Field team had an outstanding day at the Division 4B championships at Cold Spring Harbor. Eight athletes earned All Division Honors, six athletes earned the title of Division Champion, and one athlete broke a school record.

Junior Alexander Van Patten set the tone in the opening event finishing the 400m hurdles in 3rd place with a time of 1:00.1. Van Patten not only earned All Division but also broke the school record of 1:00.2 help by Wally Gurzynski (Class of 2011).

Thrower Marlon Maldonado earned All Division Honors in both the Shot Put and the Discus. Maldonado threw 106'8" in the discus and a person best 39'11.5" in the shot put. Jumper Ilya Nesterov also earned All Division Honors in the Long Jump. Nesterov jumped 18'3" and finished in 2nd place.

Sophomores Jack Balek and Mark Hammerschmidt can now be called Division Champions. Balek continued his recent success winning the High Jump with a jump of 5'8". Hammerschmidt edged out his teammate to win the Long Jump with a jump of 18'8".

The final event of the night featured the boy’s 4x400m relay. The Locust Valley team was an underdog but the team had a memorable night winning the race with a complete team effort and a time of 3:44.2. The first three legs of Matt Lautato, Konrad Matteai, and Hayden Walsh kept the race close and Alexander Van Patten put on an unforgettable move to take the lead in the first straightaway. Once he had the lead, Van Patten never looked back earning top honors in the Division. · Jack Balek – Division Champion High Jump (5’8”) · Mark Hammerschmidt – Division Champion Long Jump (18’8”) · Matt Lautato, Hayden Walsh, Alexander Van Patten, Konrad Mattaei – Division Champions 4x400m Relay (3:44.2) · Marlon Maldonado – All Division Shot Put & Discus (39’11.5” & 106’8”) · Ilya Nesterov – All Division Long Jump (18’3”) · Alexander Van Patten – All Division 400m Hurdles (1”00.1 – SCHOOL RECORD) http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10900 Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to LVCSD student athletes going on to compete in the championships in golf and track and field. The following female student-athletes will be representing Locust Valley on Monday May 20 at the Nassau County Golf Championships held at Bethpage State Park: Emily Barbu- Sydney Hochberg Kim Rave On Tuesday May 21, Senior Dalyan Cemaletin will be representing Locust Valley HS at the Boys Nassau County Golf Championships held at Bethpage State Park. The following athletes qualified for the Nassau County Championships at the Mitchel Field Sport Complex next Tuesday May 21 and Wednesday May 22: Alexander Van Patten - 400m Hurdles Hayden Walsh - 800m Marlon Maldonado - Shot Put and Discus Mark Hammerschmidt - Long Jump Ilya Nesterov - Triple Jump Jack Balek - High Jump 4x400m Relay Team - Alexander Van Patten, Hayden Walsh, Konrad Mattaei, Matt Lautato, Dylan Miluso, Mark Hammerschmidt 4x800 Relay Team - Scott Udisky, Matt Nelson, Mike Meze, Alexander Van Patten, Hayden Walsh, Konrad Mattaei http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10901 Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Our Boys Baseball Team took the series in two games against East Rockaway HS. The 7-3 victory advanced the team into the Nassau County Class B Championship. They will faceWheatley HS for a three game finale beginning Tuesday, May 21 atHofstra University. The start time is tentativelyfor 4:30pm. $6.00 admission fee. In Boys Lacrosse,the Falcons upset the #3 seed Seaford HS 11-7. This victory will advance us to the Nassau County Class C semi-finals. They will face Friends Academy, Wednesday May 22,Hofstra University at 5:30pm. $6.00 admission fee. In Girls Lacrosse, the Falcons outplayed Clarke HS 18-10. They advance to the Nassau County Class C semi-finals. They will face North Shore HS, Thursday May 23, Adelphi University at 6:00pm. $6.00 admission fee. Our Boys Tennis team defeatedMepham HS 6-1advancing to the Conference III Championship. They will face Wantagh HS. Date will be determined shortly. The Softball Team is entering game 3 on the Nassau County Class B semi-finals against Carle Place HS. Game 3 will be held this Friday May 17 at Locust Valley HS, 4:30PM. Congratulations and good luck to all the athletes and the coaches! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10903 Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Varsity Girls Lacrosse Team members Lindsay Bleistein and Cassandra Vnook have been selected to the School Girls National Lacrosse Team, which is sponsored by US Woman’s Lacrosse. The LVHS sophomores competed against almost 300 high school lacrosse players for spots on the team. The girls will compete among 1,500 of the most talented high school lacrosse players in the nation on May 25-26 at Lehigh University. “This is the most prestigious recruiting lacrosse tournament in the country,” said LVCSD Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics Mark J. Dantuono. “This is great opportunity for these girls to be exposed to college recruiters across all levels of college play.” Congratulations to Lindsay and Cassandra and good luck in the competition! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10781 Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Every single LVHS team has advanced to the play-off level of competition, an incredible accomplishment for the players and coaches. BASEBALL: Congratulations for earning the League BC 1 Championship LVHS vs. East Rockaway HS • NEW DATE-Tuesday, May 14 Varsity Baseball Playoff game 1 – best of 3 @ Locust Valley 4:30 p.m. • Wednesday, May 15 Varsity Baseball Playoff game 2 – best of 3 @ Malverne HS @ 4:30 p.m. • Friday, May 17 Varsity Baseball Playoff game 3 if needed @ Locust Valley 4:30 p.m. GOLF BOYS: • Tuesday, May 21 Dalyan Cemaletin @ Bethpage 8 a.m., individual tee time to be determined at a later date GOLF GIRLS: • Monday, May 20 and Tuesday, May 21 Championships at Bethpage Yellow time TBA BOYS LACROSSE (NEW ADDITION) • Wednesday, May 15-Nassau County Quarter-finals, @ Hofstra University vs. Seaford, 3:30 p.m. GIRLS LACROSSE • Wednesday, May 15- Nassau County Quarter-finals, @ Locust Valley vs. Clarke, 4:45 p.m. SOFTBALL: • Tuesday, May 14 Varsity Softball Playoff game 1 – best of 3 @ Locust Valley vs. Carle Place 4:30 p.m. • Wednesday, May 15 Varsity Softball Playoff game 2 – best of 3 @ Carle Place 4:30 p.m. • Friday, May 17 Varsity Softball Playoff game 3 if needed @ Locust Valley 4:30 p.m. TENNIS: Congratulations for earning the Division 3A Regular season title • Nassau County Individual Championships are being held at Oceanside HS Saturday May 11 and Sunday May 12 -9:30 a.m.– Congratulations to the following that will be representing Locust Valley this weekend – Dylan Appel, Hunter Locks and James Blatchly. Dylan advanced to the quarter-finals, way to go Dylan! Congratulations • Wednesday May 15-Conference III Semi-Finals 4:15 p.m. at Locust Valley vs. Mepham TRACK BOYS & GIRLS: • Tuesday May 14 Varsity Boys & Girls Divisional Track Meet @ Cold Spring Harbor 4:30 p.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10726 Mon, 13 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Algebra Algebra 2/Trigonometry French 3 Checkpoint B Geometry Global History Italian 3 Checkpoint B Spanish 3 US History Earth Science Chemistry -Schmidt Chemistry - Feltman Chemistry - McKay Living Environment http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10736 Mon, 13 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Annual Budget Vote, Tuesday, May 21, 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Special Board of Education Meeting following the budget vote at 9:45 p.m. at AMP Polling Places are as follows: Ann MacArthur Primary School Brookville Reform Church Bayville Intermediate School http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10666 Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Game Changes for Thursday, May 9th: Girls Track meet originally scheduled for today has been cancelled. At this time there are no plans to reschedule. Varsity Baseball vs. Cold Spring Harbor HS today will now be played at Locust Valley HS, 4:30 p.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10677 Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT First graders at Ann MacArthur Primary School learned about recycling and taking care of the earth during a special presentation in honor of Earth Day. The students took home potted roots that they could plant at home after learning about how trees help the environment. Audrey Bell, the mother of first graders Julia, Sophia, and Cecilia presented Earth Day lesson and provided the soil and roots for the children to plant with the help of the company she works for. “We do this every year to make the kids aware of recycling and taking care of our earth,” Mrs. Bell said. “ They learn how our actions affect the earth.” AMP Principal Sophia Gary said that Mrs. Bell’s visit is a wonderful way to reinforce the lessons learned in the classroom. “Classroom teachers cover recycling and the environment, and having a presentation on the topic makes those lessons even more impactful,” she said. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10681 Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Click here to view the Board of Education Candidates. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10711 Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Varsity Baseball game previously scheduled at Cold Spring Harbor HS and then moved to Locust Valley HS, has now been cancelled. It will be rescheduled for Thursday May 9 at 4:15 p.m. at Cold Spring Harbor HS. Time Change- Boys Varsity Lacrosse Game at Seaford HS, originally scheduled for 7 p.m. has been moved to a 5:15 p.m. start time. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10637 Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley High School newspaper, The Spectrum, has received the American Scholastic Press Association’s first place rating for the third year in a row. The Spectrum advisor, Coleen Comerford said the writers and editors are diligent and talented, working very long hours to create a newspaper they can be proud of. “I am so proud of the hard work our reporters, photographers, artists and layout designers have put into creating a top-rated publication,” she said. “The Spectrum reflects the ambition and talent of our students, which never ceases to amaze me.” Congratulations to the entire staff of The Spectrum. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10616 Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Meet The Candidates Night Hosted by the LVCSD Coordinated Parents' Council May 13, 2013 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., LVHS Cafeteria The goal of the evening is to give the community an opportunity to ask questions and listen to the prospective candidates running for the School Board of Education. A Moderator from the Nassau Region PTA will oversee the proceedings. There are two seats open and three candidates running: Kerian Carlstrom Susan Petersen Lubow John E. Hellyer Jr. (Jack) http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10565 Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Two teams of Locust Valley High School students earned second place in Chemagination, a science competition in which more than 40 teams participated. In the environmental chemistry category, Caoimhe Stafford, Emily Schlicht and Niko Martinovic presented their idea of a Black Allen Box to prevent radiation from escaping in the event of an accident at a nuclear plant. Competing in the medicine and drugs category, Tazim Merchant, Joe Kim and Chris Lee presented their idea of Sleep+, a drug to improve the quality of sleep. Chemagination, a competition sponsored by the American Chemical Society requires students to pick an area of chemistry and predict how it may improve the lives of high school students 25 years in the future. The students researched their topics and then each team wrote an article for Chem Matters Magazine as though we were in the year 2038. Students presented their work to a panel of judges at St. John’s University. These chemistry professors questioned the teams about their presentations and asked them what other advances in chemistry would be needed in order for their idea to be realized. Congratulations to these high school scientists! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10582 Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The annual Locust Valley Science Research Symposium will be held on Wednesday, May 29 at 7 p.m. in the MS/HS Mini-Theater. The symposium will feature the science research projects conducted by students during the 2012-2013 school year. Refreshments will be served. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10585 Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Under beautiful sunny skies, Lacrosse Day 2013 provided a full day of exciting lacrosse games and fun for all ages. The Locust Valley Varsity and JV teams played at Centre Island, where Oak Neck Athletic League sponsored vendors and refreshments. The Oak Neck lacrosse teams also played throughout the day and the Falcon Pride Booster Club was on site. The community came together to cheer on the athletes, enjoyed a barbecue, and spend the day outdoors. It was a fun time for everyone! Check out the slide show below of Lacrosse games throughout the spring season: http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10614 Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School juniors were introduced to dozens of career options during the fourth annual Junior Career Fair, a collaboration of the LVHS W.I.S.E. Senior Internship Program, and the Locust Valley Rotary Club. A panel of top professionals spoke about their career histories, offering advice about getting back up after a set back. Other professionals from a wide variety of industries offered insights to various careers through small group meetings. Students were able to ask questions and hear first=hand stories from lawyers, architects, medical professionals, firefighters, an airline pilot, and many more interesting career representatives. Business teachers Doreen Kobus and Bea Rupp organized the event in order to give students a wide variety of options to consider when thinking about their futures. “We don’t expect them to make any career decisions now, but it is important to expose them to as many careers as possible,” Ms. Kobus said. “The career fair is also a wonderful way to bring the community together for a good cause.” Joseph Ryan, liaison for the Locust Valley Rotary Club worked with Ms. Kobus and Ms. Rupp in coordinating the fair, which brought in the professionals, many of whom are residents of the school district or work in the community. The Rotary Club has been instrumental in making the career fair happen each year. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10513 Wed, 01 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Three fifth grade Locust Valley Intermediate School students have been recognized as Regional winners in the Toshiba ExloraVision Competition. The team of Hana Glavin, Michelle Hsu, and James O'Connell were honored for their innovation, “Triple C: Carbon Capture for Cars.” These students came up with an innovation that would reduce carbon emissions from cars. This team was coached by librarian Anne Joyce and mentored by high school physics teacher Alan Stella. From nearly 15,000 entries, Hana, Michelle, and James were among only 24 regional winners. Toshiba ExploraVision is a science competition for students in Kindergarten through twelfth grade, in which participants are encouraged to imagine and research what technology could look like in the future. Locust Valley Intermediate School had eight teams participate in the competition. Bayville Intermediate School had six teams participate, one of which received Honorable Mention. \Coached by Bayville Intermediate School Librarian Paige Coppola, the team of Christopher Bartell, Anthony Scicutella, and Bradon Chabrier proposed BCDC (Breast Cancer Detection Cream) a cream that would detect breast cancer at a very early stage and therefore save lives. In addition, there were 11 teams at the high school and six teams at the middle school participating in this year’s Toshiba ExploraVision competition. Congratulations to all of the district’s students that participated in this year’s Toshiba ExploraVision Competition. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10665 Wed, 01 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Below you will find the IB and AP testing schedule along with the schedule of review sessions for these exams. Students are encouraged to attend all review sessions for the subject area in which they will be tested. Students who cannot attend these scheduled sessions are encouraged to speak with their teachers individually. Review Schedule Testing Schedule http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10458 Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley art students will participate in the Painting for Peace art exhibit in Locust Valley May 4th and 5th from 12 - 4 p.m. in the gallery above Basil Leaf Cafe. An opening reception will be held on Friday, May 3rd from 5:30 - 8 p.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10455 Sun, 28 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Come out and join us for Lacrosse Day on Saturday, April 27th starting at 9 a.m. at Centre Island. In addition to exciting lacrosse games, there will be vendors, refreshments and lots of fun for all ages. The Lacrosse game schedule is as follows: 9:00 a.m. JV Boys Lacrosse vs. Friends Academy 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Oak Neck Athletic Youth games 3:00 p.m. JV Girls Lacrosse vs. Hewlett HS 5:00 p.m. Varsity Girls Lacrosse vs. Hewlett HS 7:00 p.m. Varsity Boys Lacrosse vs. Friends Academy http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10433 Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Research, creativity, and teamwork helped young scientists at Locust Valley Intermediate School produce a wide array of inspiring experiments at the school’s annual science fair. Hosted by the Locust Valley Parents’ Council, the fair provided an opportunity for students to exhibit their science experiments for parents, friends and the community. The scientific questions posed by the third through fifth graders produced fascinating answers and proved that these students knew how to form a hypothesis and prove their theories. From a “Germination Station” to an experiment on different ways to light a light bulb, scientists produced results and used stimulating visuals to present their projects. “These students proved that they have learned the skills to conduct a proper experiment and prove a hypothesis,” explained Ken Packert, Locust Valley’s K-12 Science Coordinator. “They presented their material in a way that the audience could understand and they learned something themselves throughout the process.” Members of the high school’s research program, along with their teacher, Chris Hoppner, served as judges for the science fair for the third year in a row. “My students were thrilled to interact with the intermediate school students and share this experience with them,” Mr. Hoppner said. “Through this partnership, the younger students see that they can continue their scientific research throughout school, and they look forward to it.” Locust Valley Intermediate School science lab instructor, Caroline McBride said the students worked independently or in groups on their projects and had fun while doing it. “Participation in the science fair is voluntary, which makes it that much more impressive that so many students chose to be a part of the fair,” she said. “It proves that they already are forming a love for science at a young age.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10438 Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School students held a shore-to-shore fundraiser to benefit victims of Superstorm Sandy, in the Locust Valley and Long Beach school districts. A carnival, complete with cotton candy, hot dogs, face painting and relay races provided a fun-filled fundraiser that brought in more than $4,000 to help those hit hard by the storm get back on their feet. An entrance fee and raffles were the primary source of fundraising. However, prior to the event students at Locust Valley High School paid for the opportunity to tape their principal and Dean to the wall. Dr. Kieran McGuire, and Mr. Joe Enea were suspended in the air, covered in duct tape, to help raise funds for such a great cause. Locust Valley High School students Samantha Fornaro and Monica Graziose, along with their families, organized the shore-to-shore fundraiser. They hoped to raise money for Bayville and Long Beach communities, which were both greatly affected by hurricane Sandy. Staff members Jillian Celli, Angela Manzo and Rebecca Gottesman were instrumental in helping Samantha and Monica with the event. Ms. Gottesman said the students were tireless in their efforts to help those in need. “They had been wanting to help those who were hurt the most by Superstorm Sandy. They worked day and night for weeks to ensure that this event would be a success,” she explained. Donations from parents, community members, students, and faculty added to the great success of this fundraiser. Parents and children of all ages came out for the cause, played video games, threw whipped cream pies at their teachers, and had their faces painted. Great job by all who participated! Check out the pictures in the slide show below. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10320 Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Sixth graders at Locust Valley Middle School raised more than $10,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. This was the largest amount of money raised by a single grade on all of Long Island! With only 180 students in the sixth grade, these ambitious students competed against each other to raise the most money per class for this important cause. Some classes held bake sales, and others participated in creative events such as Moustache Monday, when the students wore fake moustaches, and sold fake moustaches, some made of chocolate. The event culminated with students paying for pieces of duct tape and taping Principal H. Thomas Hogan and Music Chairperson William Margiotta to the wall. The event was a fun way to raise those few last dollars and bring the entire grade together for some spirit. Organized by Barbara LaBella and Meris First, the sixth grade advisors, the fundraiser was the largest ever for a group this size at Locust Valley. Allison Levine, the campaign coordinator for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society said the Locust Valley sixth graders raised more money per child than any other group on Long Island. She explained that large donations such as this one usually come from an entire school, rather than one grade. Mr. Hogan said the students and faculty should be commended for the tremendous effort put forth for the sake of those in need. “These kids and their teachers are superstars – they spent countless hours creatively raising funds and they should feel good about what they’ve done. I have never been prouder of our 6th grade community. They are a special group.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10321 Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Board of Education Annual Public Budget Hearing, May 8, 2013, 8 p.m. in the MS/HS Mini-Theater http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10298 Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School Ranked One Of America’s Top High Schools – Again! #3 on Long Island and #4 in NY Locust Valley High School continues to excel and has once again gained national distinction by being ranked as one of the top high schools in the nation. Locust Valley High School has earned recognition as being 3rd on Long Island, 4th in New York State, 9th in the Northeast, and 116th in the nation among all public and private schools, according to The Washington Post. Locust Valley High School was ranked higher than any other open enrollment International Baccalaureate school on Long Island or in New York State. There are 27,000 high schools in the nation. Only the top nine percent of those schools qualify for The Washington Post rankings. The Washington Post’s Jay Matthews uses a formula which he calls the Challenge Index to calculate the rankings. The formula uses the number of AP and IB exams given at the high school divided by the number of graduating seniors. Mr. Matthews states on his website that this formula determines how well a school prepares their students for college. “I am very proud that Locust Valley High School has been recognized yet again for outstanding academic achievement,” stated Locust Valley Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund. “Locust Valley High School offers a rigorous academic program which prepares students to succeed in college and the workforce.” Dr. Hunderfund added that this recognition is a result of the hard work of the district’s students and faculty as well as the commitment of the Board of Education and the support of parents and our community. “It is this exceptional combination which makes this outstanding achievement possible!" The 2013 rankings were based on numbers collected from 2012. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10251 Tue, 16 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Tune in to MSG Varsity (Cablevision Channel 14) today at 6:58 p.m. to see a feature on the Locust Valley High School Film Festival! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10221 Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School hosted its eighth annual film festival, featuring original films by high school students from across Long Island. Locust Valley students took home first and second-place awards from 151 entries. Nicole Yonkers won first place for outstanding public service announcement; John Rozzo and Michael Paniagua won second place for outstanding public service announcement; and 
James Schieferstein won second place for outstanding animation. Fourteen high schools submitted films for the festival, and judges from New York Institute of Technology pre-judged and chose the 59 films that were finalists in the festival. Professional film critic, Sandy Kenyon attended the festival and chose the winners, based on technical skills, creativity, and enjoyment. Mr. Kenyon offered invaluable advice to the young filmmakers, explaining what aspects he liked in certain films, and why others did not work. “Choose your actors carefully,” Mr. Kenyon told the students. “Don’t cast your friends in your films. Actually hold auditions and cast the person who is the most believable.” He also spoke to them about lighting, and other technical aspects. “If you’re making music videos, you need to watch a lot of music videos,” he pointed out. “The Locust Valley Film Festival has become the premier high school competition for Long Island's students and is recognized as such by the scholarships annually awarded to our winners by NYIT for film and media studies," said Locust Valley High School Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire. Films were submitted in the categories of animation, public service announcements, TV commercials, music videos, documentaries, film trailers, comedies, and dramas. Along with members of the high school Parents’ Council, Locust Valley film teacher Bruce Campbell organized the event and said the lessons learned by viewing other student films are very useful to his students. “Our film festival is a competition, and while we're proud of our students and the awards they win, we're equally proud of the event itself. It's a wonderful learning experience for students to share their work with other students from so many schools. It helps inspire them to achieve their best." A special movie night prior to the festival was held at LVHS to highlight all of the Locust Valley films submitted this year. The Locust Valley High School Parents Council is instrumental each year in making the festival a success. Special thanks goes to this year’s film festival committee chaired by Susan Hammerschmidt and Sarah Henris. Congratulations to all of the participants on a job well done! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10201 Sun, 14 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Athletic Game Cancellations for Friday April 12 and Saturday April 13, 2013: (New dates to be determined) Friday Boys Varsity Tennis vs. East Meadow Boys JV Tennis at East Meadow Girls Varsity Lacrosse vs. Mineola Girls JV Lacrosse at Mineola Boys JV Lacrosse at Mineola Saturday JV Softball vs. Levittown Division JV Baseball vs. Garden City HS http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10180 Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT LVHS senior Chris Minafo was selected as one of Long Island’s Best Young Artists by the Heckscher Museum of Art. Chris’ artwork was one of only 80 pieces chosen for the exhibit from all Long Island high schools. Chris was honored at an opening reception at the Heckscher Museum in Huntington and will have his artwork on exhibit through April 21, 2013. Chris is a student in Mrs. DeFeo’s IB HL Visual Arts class and has had his pieces displayed at school and in various exhibits in the community. Mrs. Defeo said, “It has been a privilege to teach Chris. He is deserving of such an honor, as he is one of the most talented artists I know and it is fitting that his work be displayed in such a prestigious exhibit.” “I have had the distinct privilege of seeing Chris develop his vision and technique over the course of seven years. He has always been an excellent technician,” said H. Thomas Hogan, LVCSD director of art. “What impresses me most is his unwavering dedication to his vision and purpose. His art speaks and shares so that you rarely walk away without gaining insight into the artist – a true achievement. ” Congratulations to Chris! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10138 Tue, 09 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Doing more, shore to shore… LOCUST VALLEY & LONG BEACH Fundraiser Show support for Long Beach High School and the families who were seriously impacted by Superstorm Sandy. We have essentially recovered from the storm on the north shore, but many residents on the south shore are still suffering. The money raised will be going towards scholarship funding for both Long Beach and Locust Valley High School students that were affected by the hurricane. COME TO OUR CARNIVAL THEMED EVENT: DJ, ACTIVITIES, TOURNAMENTS, T-SHIRTS, GAMES, PRIZES, FOOD, DRINK AND MORE Donations are greatly appreciated! We can’t do this without you! SPREAD THE WORD When: April 13th (1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.) Where: Locust Valley High School – gym 99 Horse Hollow Road, Locust Valley, NY Admission Fee: $10 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9992 Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Members of the Class of 2013 have been accepted to a wide variety of colleges and universities, including some of the most highly selective schools in the country! Please see the list below of many of the prestigious institutions that have invited Locust Valley students to join their ranks! Adelphi University Albany College of Pharmacy Albright College Alfred University American University Arcadia University Arizona State University Arizona State University East Baruch College of the CUNY Binghamton University Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania Boston College Boston University University of Bridgeport Brooklyn College of the CUNY Buffalo State College of SUNY University of California at Los Angeles University of California at Santa Barbara Castleton State College College of Charleston Clark University Coastal Carolina University University of Colorado at Boulder University of Connecticut Cornell University CUNY/UAPC University of Delaware DeSales University Drexel University East Carolina University Eugene Lang College The New School for Liberal Arts Fairfield University Flagler College Fordham University Franklin and Marshall College Franklin Pierce University Furman University George Mason University Georgetown University Gettysburg College University of Hartford Hartwick College Hobart and William Smith Colleges Hofstra University Hunter College of the CUNY Indiana University at Bloomington Iona College Ithaca College James Madison University University of Kentucky La Salle University Lebanon Valley College LIU Post Loyola University Maryland Lynchburg College Manhattan College Manhattanville College Marist College Marshall University University of Maryland, College Park Marymount Manhattan College Marywood University Massachusetts Institute of Technology University of Massachusetts, Amherst University of Miami University of Michigan University of Mississippi Molloy College Monmouth University Mount Saint Mary College University of New Hampshire University of New Haven The College of New Jersey New York Institute of Technology - Old Westbury The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of North Carolina at Pembroke Northeastern University Northwood University, Florida Pace University, New York City Pennsylvania State University, Schreyer Honors College Pennsylvania State University, University Park University of Pennsylvania University of Pittsburgh Providence College Purchase College State University of New York Quinnipiac University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rhode Island College University of Rhode Island Roanoke College Rochester Institute of Technology University of Rochester Rollins College Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey at New Brunswick Sacred Heart University Salisbury University Salve Regina University Santa Fe University of Art and Design University of the Sciences in Philadelphia The University of Scranton Seton Hall University Siena College Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania University of South Carolina University of South Florida, Tampa Southern Illinois University, Carbondale Springfield College St. John's University - Queens Campus St. Thomas Aquinas College Stanford University State University of New York - Plattsburgh State University of New York at Albany State University of New York at New Paltz Stevenson University Stony Brook University SUNY College at Cortland SUNY College at Old Westbury SUNY College at Oneonta SUNY College at Potsdam SUNY College of Technology at Canton SUNY Delhi SUNY Fredonia SUNY Maritime College SUNY Oswego Syracuse University The University of Tampa Texas Christian University The University of Texas, Austin Towson University Tulane University Tyler School of Art University at Buffalo The State University of New York University of Vermont Villanova University Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University University of Virginia Wake Forest University Washington University in St. Louis West Chester University of Pennsylvania West Virginia University Western Carolina University Wittenberg University York College of Pennsylvania http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10019 Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education will hold a meeting on April 17, 2013 at 8 p.m. at Bayville Intermediate School. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=10022 Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT Seven robotics teams have advanced to the finals in the FIRST Lego League robotics competition. The teams, from the middle school and Bayville and Locust Valley Intermediate Schools, were coached by parent volunteers and supervised by high school science teacher and robotics coach Alan Stella. The theme of the event, ‘Senior Solutions,’ charged teams with the task of exploring the topic of aging and how age may affect a person's ability to maintain his or her lifestyle. After identifying challenges to aging, such as the inability to get around, the teams were responsible for solving these issues with an invention. Teams also built, tested, and programed an autonomous robot using Lego Mindstorms® to solve a set of missions on an obstacle course. Congratulations to the following participants: Bayville Intermediate School The Crazy Racing Robots - 2nd Place - Inspiration Award Elizabeth Flory, Ryan Maselli, Ezra Pietrafesa, Noah Pietrafesa, Julia Sabitino, Alexandra Weilert, Raymond Weilert, Chase Williams Locust Valley Intermediate School Robotic Falcons - 1st Place ­ Project Presentation Chris Chiu, Tim Chiu, Salvatore Caizzo, Alex Giankakis, Joseph Keebler, Isabella McGlone, Joseph Valli, Zach Watson, Alex Wyslowski LEGO-letes - 2nd Place ­ Research Project Anthony Bonadonna, Daniel Glavan, Hana Glavan, Lucas Johnson, Matthew Klein, James Long The Medicine Bottles -1st Place ­ Mechanical Design Nils Coffey, Danny Dessner (6th Grade), Ethan Dessner, Jeremy Mastrodomenico, Jordan Mastrodomenico Locust Valley Middle School Team #624 LV Lego Technix - 2nd Place - Innovative Solution Award Diana Bianco, Brian Chasanoff, Giulia Maida, Daniel Schraeter, Danielle Sisson, Michael Sisson, Baybots- 1st Place ­ Robot Performance Award& 2nd Place Strategy and Innovation Award (The Baybots earned the highest score of the day with 345 points). Bridget Bianco, Grace Carreccia, Charlotte Creedon, Rebecca Finke, Mackenzie Henris, Jaye Liantonio, Ella Paz Vectors- 2nd Place ­ Programming Award Matthew Boutros, Joe Cantore, Keenan Herlich, Alex Lawton, Mike Keshle, Charles Saventti http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9970 Tue, 02 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT THURSDAY NIGHT AT THE MOVIES Join us as we view original short films created by Locust Valley film students. Thursday, April 4, 2013 - 7:30 p.m.in the LVHS Mini-Theatre Nearly 30 short films will be screened. Many of these films will be highlighted in the Locust Valley High School Film Festival on April 10, 2013. Popcorn, candy and refreshments will be for sale during the event which will be hosted by the film students. No reservations required - just show up! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9957 Mon, 01 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Middle School newspaper club was given an amazing opportunity to be journalists for the “KidsDay” section of Newsday. Sixth, seventh, and eighth graders met with the “KidsDay” editor to discuss topics and then wrote articles that were published in Newsday. Several reporters also participated in special events and interviews. Kristina Lollo and Melissa Cooney traveled into New York City and learned how to make chocolate at the Perugina chocolate factory. Faith McQuiston, Isabel Ryan, James Rose, and Joyce Kim were invited to the media opening and press conference for the new Metropolitan Museum of Math in Manhattan. Finally, Kristy Jahchan and Melissa Cooney listened to a sound check and interviewed members of the bands “Outasight” and “The Ready Set” before their NYC concert. Congratulations to these budding young reporters! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9883 Mon, 25 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Middle School’s National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) welcomed more than 75 new members during an induction ceremony held in front of a proud audience of classmates, family, Board of Education members and school faculty. Induction of new members into the society is one of the most memorable traditions associated with joining NJHS. The event included a candle-lighting ceremony, a string concerto, a welcome from Locust Valley Middle School Principal Mr. H. Thomas Hogan and Board of Education President Ms. Suzanne Sgueglia. The ceremony concluded with inspiring remarks from Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund. Mr. Hogan told those in attendance that he finds the NJHS induction ceremony to be one of the most special evenings of the year. “This one is extra special because this honor recognizes all the effort - the blood, sweat and tears - of the students who constantly strive to do the best they can do in all facets of life. It is merit at its best, and every one of these children being inducted tonight earned our respect and admiration. I would also like to thank the parents because they were supportive every step of the way.” Membership in NJHS is intended to create enthusiasm for scholarship, stimulate a desire to render service, promote leadership and develop character in middle and high school students. The NJHS honors students who have demonstrated excellence in the aforementioned areas, and these characteristics have been associated with membership in the organization since their beginnings in the 1920s. Congratulations to Locust Valley’s newest members of this elite club! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9861 Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Three fifth grade Locust Valley Intermediate School students have been recognized as Regional winners in the TOSHIBA ExloraVision Competition. The team of Hana Glavan, Michelle Hsu, and James O'Connell were honored for their innovation, “Triple C: Carbon Capture for Cars.” These students came up with an innovation that would reduce carbon emissions from cars, similar to the way in which a catalytic converter removes other harmful pollutants. This team was coached by Librarian Anne Joyce and mentored by high school physics teacher Alan Stella. From nearly 15,000 entries, Hana, Michelle, and James were among only 24 regional winners. Of these regional winners, only six were chosen from students in grades four through six. TOSHIBA ExploraVision is a science competition for students in Kindergarten through twelfth grade, in which participants are encouraged to imagine and research what technology could look like in the future. Locust Valley Intermediate School had eight teams participate in the competition. Bayville Intermediate School had six teams participate. One of the Bayville teams received Honorable Mention. Coached by Bayville Intermediate School Librarian Paige Coppola, the team of Christopher Bartell, Anthony Scicutella, and Bradon Chabrier proposed BCDC (Breast Cancer Detection Cream) a cream that would detect breast cancer at a very early stage and therefore save lives. The cream would change color due to body temperature changes, as breast cancer cells reach a higher body temperature than healthy cells. The Locust Valley Intermediate School team will now go on to create a website for their project. Each student will receive a TOSHIBA Camileo Camcorder and will be recognized by a TOSHIBA representative at an awards ceremony on April 4, 2013, at LVI. Additionally, the team will receive a banner and a plaque from TOSHIBA. LVI will receive a TOSHIBA laptop loaded with all the software necessary for the students to create their website. In addition, there were 11 teams at the high school and six teams at the middle school participating in this year’s TOSHIBA ExploraVision competition. Congratulations to all of the district’s students that participated in this year’s TOSHIBA ExploraVision Competition. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9828 Thu, 21 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Budget Forum on April 3, 2013 at 8 p.m. in the MS/HS Mini-Theater http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9829 Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Jesters entertained packed audiences with a “Tale as old as Time” with their production of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast”. The singing, acting, and set design proved that the Locust Valley Jesters can put together a performance that would impress the harshest critics. The show featured Frances Raynolds and Konrad Matthaei as the title characters. Ernest Scheiferstein was the pompous and villainous Gaston, with Ishan Prasad as his sidekick, Lefou. Richard Kihm was Belle’s eccentric father, Maurice. Also featured were Joseph Palumbo as Lumiere, John LaMere as Cogsworth, Julia Vezza as Mrs. Potts, Daniel Criblez as Chip, Jensine Schneekloth as Babette and Victoria Sedlak as the Wardrobe! Singing and dancing to help break the spell were 50 talented Locust Valley students! Working behind the scenes to create the magic were the many dedicated members of the Locust Valley stage and lighting crew. Special thanks to Mary Wilhelm for the photos! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9333 Fri, 15 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School mathematicians competed in an intense, national math competition that helped them sharpen their math skills and required them to think out of the box. The American Math Competition (AMC) is sponsored by the Mathematical Association of America and includes more than 220,000 students from around the world. Ninth and tenth grade students took the AMC 10, while juniors and seniors took the AMC 12. None of the students are allowed to use calculators during the exams. The top scorers nationwide go on to participate in an international math competition. Locust Valley High School had 75 students participate at the national level. Some of the most prestigious colleges and universities request AMC scores on their applications. Students are recognized at the school, state, regional, and national-levels for their achievement. Performing at high levels on the AMC can leadto participation in even more selective math contests, including the International MathematicalOlympiad, the premier international high school-level problem-solving contest. The AMC states that the problems in the contest are hard, but designed to be within reach. They add that participation alone in thecontest should provide a sense of accomplishment because these problems are meant to be more challengingthan routinely encountered in mathematics courses. District Math Coordinator Robert Teseo said the AMC is an excellent experience for students. “The AMC is the first opportunity for our students to experience the larger world of mathematics. For students who achieve in mathematics, the AMC allows them to apply these skills in a creative manner, similar to how they might apply their knowledge to a unique situation in a college or career situation.” While it is an extraordinary accomplishment to sit for this exam, several students should be recognized for earning the highest scores of any Locust Valley student. Isaac Park was the high scorer for the AMC 12 and Jack and Quinlan Ferrante were tied as the high scorers for the AMC 10. Congratulations to all! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9686 Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Reminder that all LVCSD elementary schools will be in session this Friday, March 15, 2013. This is due to the loss of instructional days after Superstorm Sandy. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9661 Wed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students at Ann MacArthur and Bayville Primary Schools were taught by some very special visiting teachers – Locust Valley High School students. Through a program called “High School Heroes,” about 50 high school students became teachers for a day, providing lessons on community and business to children in Kindergarten through second grade. In its third year, High School Heroes previously took place at the Intermediate Schools and this year was brought down to the Primary Schools for the first time. The program, a partnership with Junior Achievement, was intended to inspire and prepare elementary school children to succeed in a global economy, while at the same time providing high school students an opportunity to become leaders in the community. Through training provided by the Junior Achievement organization, lesson plans are used to help the “teachers” provide valuable, educational lessons to their classes. Locust Valley High School Assistant Principal Rebecca Gottesman said the program provided the younger students with a unique opportunity to learn about the business world from teenagers, a group that they look up to and admire. The heroes themselves gained experience planning lessons, teaching, and learning to be leaders. Ms. Gottesman said the collaboration was very successful. “Many of the high school participants ended the day feeling as though they had helped the community, encouraged young children, and learned about themselves throughout the process.” Some of the students are interested in pursuing a career in teaching after thoroughly enjoying the experience, she added. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9671 Wed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Elementary Parents Council (LVEPC) held the first annual International Food Festival, an event that exposed young students to foods and cultures from around the world. Held in the Middle School cafeteria in order to accommodate a large crowd, the smells of homemade foods from many countries filled the room and welcomed students and their families. High school foreign language students volunteered to serve the foods that were donated by families. Participants shared foods from their own backgrounds, helping to create the international flair. LVEPC members Hayley Byron and Tina Mehta organized the event with the hope that the LVEPC could enhance the elementary school curriculum and provide some fun family time as well. Loretta Pisciotta was instrumental in making the event a success as well, including coordinating the high school volunteers. The price of admission to the event raised $220 for the North Shore Inn Soup Kitchen in Glen Cove. Leftover food was donated to Jones Manor on the Sound in Bayville. With so many people benefitting, the event is already being planned for next year! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9672 Wed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the following student-athletes on their outstanding accomplishments during the winter athletics season: 2012-2013 Nassau County Winter Section VIII Athletic Awards First Name Last Name Grade Sport Award Ryan Paniagua 12 Boys Basketball All-Conference Ray Catala 11 Boys Basketball All-Conference Brooke Spallino 12 Girls Basketball All-County Sammy Altimari 12 Girls Basketball All-Conference Marissa Reyes 12 Girls Basketball All-Conference Marcella Applewhaite 12 Girls Basketball All-Class Grace Murphy 12 Girls Track All-County Tessa Tarantino 12 Girls Bowling All-Conference Corinne Montell 10 Girls Bowling All-Conference Nick Casella 10 Wrestling All State 2nd Place 113 lbs Sam Ward 10 Wrestling All State 5th Place 132 lbs Kevin Rieger 12 Wrestling News 12 Scholar Athlete Kevin Rieger 12 Wrestling NIAA Section VIII Scholar Athlete Kevin Rieger 12 Wrestling All-County Bryan Coll 10 Wrestling Division II County Champion 99 lbs Hunter Dusold 8 Wrestling Division II County Champion 106 lbs Mike Dusold 10 Wrestling Division II County Champion 145 lbs Jordan Formicola 11 Wrestling Division II County Champion 160 lbs Yamique Webb 10 Wrestling Division II County Champion 170 lbs Joey Bressingham 11 Wrestling All-County Pat Briody 8 Wrestling All-County Dan Casalino 12 Wrestling All-County Brian Drews 11 Wrestling All-County Sam Farren 11 Wrestling All-County Erik Villalobos 11 Wrestling All-County Alec Chiappone 12 Wrestling All-Conference Jason Henris 12 Wrestling All-Conference The following winter 2012-2013 teams achieved NYS scholar-athlete team recognition: Cheerleading 95.53134; Girls Indoor Track 94.069; Boys Bowling 93.196; Girls Bowling 92.593; Girls Basketball 92.058; Wrestling 91.708; Boys Basketball 90.306; Kickline 90.0 TEAM ACHIEVEMENTS Girls Basketball Nassau County Class B Semi-Finalist Wrestling Division II County Champions Wrestling 8th Place Finish in New York State Tournament http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9673 Wed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Dressed in colonial costumes and playing the part of typical colonial tradespeople, the LVMS seventh graders presented research on colonial times to judges in the middle school mini-theater and library. Artifacts were used representing the particular trade each student researched, including elaborate displays to depict the work of fur trappers, medics, fisherman, candle makers, shoemakers, tailors, and more. The Colonial Jobs Fair is an annual culmination of the colonial times unit of study, which is part of the seventh-grade Social Studies curriculum. “The job fair assists the students showcase, in a creative manner, the information they have learned during class,” said Social Studies Coordinator David J. Ethe. “Conducting the fair enhances the curriculum by having students intensely examine the political, social, economic, and geographic life faced by Americans during Colonial times.” Students worked hard for several weeks, utilizing various skills such as research, public speaking, appraising historical perspectives, writing, and teamwork. When putting together their final projects, judges were very impressed by the creativity students displayed. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9631 Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Below are the schedules for the Locust Valley Middle School after school ELA and Math Assessment prep sessions These sessions meet immediately after school and students are released in time to catch the 3:49 buses. ELA Prep Session Schedule Math Prep Session Schedule http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9650 Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT All schools will open two hours past their normal start times and buses will pick students up two hours past their normal pick-up times due to weather conditions. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9563 Fri, 08 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT MS student-athletes interested in playing Lacrosse or Basketball are invited to attend training sessions to help prepare them for the spring season of Lacrosse. These training sessions have already begun and Lacrosse will continue until the start of the spring seasons on April 2. Basketball will continue throughout the spring season. Boys Basketball training will take place on Wednesdays and Fridays from 6:30 a.m. to 7:15 a.m. beginning March 8th. Girls may attend Lacrosse training Wednesday mornings from 6:30 a.m. to 7:15 a.m. in the middle school gym. All participants should bring their lacrosse equipment, stick, helmet, goggles and mouthpiece. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9548 Thu, 07 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8738 Thu, 07 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Katrina Cappiello has worked hard on the soccer field and in the classroom, and her hard work has paid off. Katrina recently signed a Letter of Intent to play soccer at NYIT. Katrina has earned All-Conference 2012, All-Class 2011, the Sportsmanship Award and played for eight years on Club Team Tornados. She was also team captain. Soccer Coach Ann Monsees describes Katrina as dependable and trustworthy. Ms. Monsees said Katrina is a goal-oriented achiever and a leader. She promoted soccer by leading clinics with her teammates for younger players. “She is a leader that exhibits courage, strength, and determination,” Ms. Monsees said. While excelling in athletics, Katrina pursued a demanding academic program including Honors, Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses. Guidance Counselor Faith Keenan said one of Katrina’s strengths is art and design, which makes it no surprise that she plans to study architecture at NYIT. Katrina consistently makes High Honor Roll and was inducted into the National Honor Society and Foreign Language Honor Society. She will graduate with a Locust Valley Diploma with Distinction. LVCSD Director of Physical Education, Health, and Athletics, Mark J. Dantuono, said that being a product of Long Island soccer leagues and Long Island high school soccer, makes it very special that she will play for NYIT, right here on Long Island. Congratulations Katrina! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9526 Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT LVHS sophomore Sarah Miller recently performed in the Island Symphony Orchestra’s Annual Young Performers Competition. Sarah was chosen to compete based on recording she submitted of herself playing the Haydn Cello Concerto. Sarah was chosen as one of four finalists to perform for five of the Island Symphony Orchestra members/judges and took third place in the competition. The Locust Valley Music Department is very proud of this accomplishment “Sarah is a talented young cellist who is an active performer inside and outside of school,” said music teacher Marc Yavoski. “She has developed a beautiful tone and technique on her instrument. Sarah is always focused and conducts herself like a professional musician. I see a bright musical future ahead for her.” Congratulations, Sarah! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9509 Tue, 05 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School Senior Kevin Rieger has been chosen as a News 12 Scholar-Athlete. He is one of only thirty high school students on Long Island to receive this honor. This is the third consecutive year that Locust Valley High School has had a News12 Scholar-Athlete. Kevin is a three -sport athlete, playing football, wrestling and baseball. He is a two-time All-County award winner in Football and also the team captain. As a junior, Kevin’s tremendous ability as an offensive and defensive lineman sparked one of Locust Valley’s most successful football seasons as the team finished 7-1 and in first place in regular season-play. As a senior, Kevin was instrumental in helping the team advance to the play-offs once again. Kevin earned All-Conference honors as a member of the Varsity Wrestling Team. On the Varsity Baseball Team he is a starter, the team captain, a pitcher and a third baseman. He is also the male recipient of the Section VIII Athletic Administrators Association Scholar-Athlete Award. “Kevin is a talented and driven scholar-athlete; most importantly he is a gentlemen,” said Locust Valley Director of Physical Education, Health and Athletics, Mark J. Dantuono. “His character is unprecedented, which makes him a special person to be around.” Kevin’s academic success rivals his athletic accomplishments. He is an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma candidate, member of the National Honor Society, French National Honor Society and the Model United Nations. He has achieved scholar-athlete status and made high honor roll during all four years of high school. Kevin participates in multiple community service activities, including volunteering at Cancer Center for Kids and participating in Relay for Life and Athletes Helping Athletes. He also plays the cello in the high school orchestra. Guidance counselor Jillian Celli described Kevin as a true gentleman that posses a strong set of core values. “Kevin is consistent and reliable in all aspects of his life and possesses an uncanny ability to put things in perspective.” She added that he never quits anything he starts and always gives 100% to any task he undertakes. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9409 Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students at Ann MacArthur Primary School and Bayville Primary School marked the 100th Day of school with counting, singing, and celebrating the number one hundred. At Bayville Primary School, a special guest read a story that featured the number one hundred. Locust Valley High School Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire read “100 School Days” by Anne Rockwell and encouraged the children in kindergarten through second grade to take the book out of the school library and read it on their own. “ You can read this book and figure out how many children are in the classroom using math,” Dr. McGuire said. At Ann MacArthur Primary School, second graders performed a musical piece celebrating the day. Parents of those second graders attended the assembly and joined in the fun. Using songs that count to 100 and creating artwork surrounding the number, the curriculum is enhanced in a fun way, said AMP Principal Dr. Sophia Gary. ‘The children counted by tens, by ones, and learned just how much 100 really is,” she explained. “Making math fun reinforces what the children are already learning.” BP Assistant Principal Dorothy McManus agreed, adding that special activities help the children get excited about math. “They want to learn math when the learning is so much fun.” At BP, the entire day focused on the number one hundred. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9410 Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to seven Locust Valley wrestlers who competed at a high-level of competition at the State wrestling qualifiers. Five of these wrestlers advanced to the quarterfinals: Nick Casella, Hunter Dusold, Sam Ward, Mike Dusold and Jordan Formicola. Bryan Coll and Yamique Webb wrestled tough in wrestle-backs. Nick and Sam both advanced to the semifinals on day two of the tournament. This was the highest number of place winners that any Nassau County Division II school had in this tournament. Sam fought hard and placed overall fifth in his weight class qualifying him to earn All-State honors, while Nick advanced to the State finals for the second year in a row placing second and also earning All-State honors. As a team, Locust Valley finished in eighth place out of 120 Division II schools in all of New York. Congratulations on this outstanding accomplishment! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9334 Mon, 25 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Please tune in to News12 tonight, Thursday, Feb. 21 to see a feature story on LVMS. News12 reporter Ken Grimball visited a science class to cover the students' roller coaster building project. This project incorporated important scientific theories the seventh grade classes recently learned. The feature will air beginning during the 5 p.m. segment and will repeat throughout the evening. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9295 Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School Seniors Emma Gugerty and Stephanie Bousleiman advanced to the final round of the Long Island Science and Engineering Fair (LISEF). These young scientists, who are the Class of 2013 Valedictorian and Salutatorian, competed against more than 500 Long Island high school students. They are among only the top 25 percent of competitors advancing to the final round. Emma and Stephanie’s project, “A Comparison of the Diel Vertical Migration Patterns of the Oceanic Whitetip Shark - Carcharhinus Longimanus - to Those of Other Species,” utilized satellite telemetry data in a joint project with graduate students from Stony Brook University’s School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences. Data from three different tagged White Tip Sharks was compared to the data of three other species of sharks and two species of Bony Fish. The graduate students tagged the fish off the coast of the Bahamas. Emma and Stephanie compared the depth of dives to 450 meters, and assessed whether heat exchangers in the bodies of warm-blooded sharks, such as the Great White and Mako Shark, helped with deeper dives than cold-blooded sharks, such as the Blue Shark and the Oceanic White Tip.They also compared the structure of cartilaginous shark skeletons and their role in deep dives to those of bony fish skeletons. The LISEF Fair is the regional fair of the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). Emma and Stephanie will compete on March 11th for the chance to move on to the international fair in Phoenix Arizona. The international fair is considered the Olympics of Science Research, attended by 1,500 students from approximately 70 countries. Science Research coordinator Chris Hoppner said the girls worked tirelessly on their project. “Emma and Stephanie spent endless hours on their research and their efforts paid off. Their project is impressive even for someone beyond the high school level,: he said. He added that the project taught them important research skills and scientific methods which will greatly benefit them in their post high school educations. Good luck in the finals, Emma and Stephanie! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9248 Wed, 20 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Two Locust Valley High School students enriched the spirit of the community this past Valentine's Day when they anonymously posted Valentine's messages on every single student's locker in the high school. The messages were inspiring and uplifting, putting smiles on the faces of students as they approached their lockers that day. Without getting credit or asking for anything in return, these secret admirers may have made a difference in how someone viewed their day. Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire said he is proud to say that this act represents the generosity and kindness of the student body. "These are the types of young men and women that grace our halls," he said. "These are students who do for others, and ask nothing in return - not even a thank you. They are quite happy to have brightened the faces of their peers. " The messages were hand written on colorful sticky notes and stuck to the outside of lockers. They included messages such as "Wake up everyday with an idea that something wonderful is going to happen. You're Beautiful." Many of the messages had hand drawn hearts at the bottom. Their actions embody the caring atmosphere that our community treasures. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9250 Wed, 20 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School inducted 130 students into the National Honor Society, recognizing their achievements in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service, and character. The newest inductees join their fellow members in upholding these principles by contributing their time and talents to better the school and local community through volunteer activities, civic involvement and adherence to the highest standards of academics, morality and ethics. Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire described these traits, which are the criteria for admission to the honor society, and told the group how proud he was of their actions in the community and their dedication to their academics. “Thank you for providing us with the inspiration and example of your efforts and successes.” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund and Board of Education President Suzanne Sgueglia addressed the students during the ceremony, which included the traditional candle lighting ceremony. Each inductee lit a symbolic candle and recited the oath, promising to live up to the standards of the National Honor Society. Dr. Hunderfund expressed her pride for the accomplishments of this elite group of young men and women. “Congratulations for being who you are, for distinguishing yourselves in so many ways and for truly being the pride of Locust Valley High School.” Congratulations to the new inductees! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9252 Wed, 20 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Interact will sponsor a blood drive on March 1 from 7:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. in the Middle School/High School Mini-Theater. All donors are required to have photo identification and 16-year-olds must have signed parental permission. Pamphlets on becoming a blood donor are available in the high school main office and guidance office. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9214 Tue, 19 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Location of this game has changed to Cold Spring Harbor High School. Congratulations to the the LVHS Girls Varsity Basketball team for advancing to the Class B semi-finals against Carle Place High School on Saturday, February 16 at 1:00 p.m. at Cold Spring Harbor High School. There will be an admission fee of $6. Good Luck Falcons!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9141 Fri, 15 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT For students at Bayville Elementary School, Valentine’s Day is about spreading the love to those who need it most. At Bayville Primary School, Kindergarten students in Carolyn Sumcizk’s class created original Valentine’s cards for Veterans. At Bayville Intermediate School, students wrote and drew Valentine’s cards for children in Island Park who were hit hard by Superstorm Sandy. While helping to brighten Valentine’s Day for others, these young students were learning at the same time. Using their art skills, penmanship, spelling and creativity, the children incorporated their curriculum into the project. However, they also learned compassion. “It makes them feel good to do something nice for others,” said Ms. Sumcizk. “They were very excited to make these cards and to know someone would smile when they received it.” Third grade teacher Christine Arthur organized the project at Bayville Intermediate School and said many classes participated, creating a large number of cards to distribute. Mrs. Arthur said her class was writing personal messages to the children from Island Park. ‘They are creating greetings that will remind the recipients that there are people who care about them.” She added that her third graders were using important skills for the project such as creative writing. In the end, while the Bayville students gained so much from these projects, the real winners were those that received the cards. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9166 Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT High school art students used various medium to represent diversity in honor of Black History Month and Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Melanie Mooney’s art classes studied how hands, whether they are black and white or full of color, work together to make diversity work. The hands can be seen in the art display in the high school lobby. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9168 Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education will hold a Public Budget Forum and Board Meeting on March 6, 2013 at 8 p.m. in the MS/HS Mini-Theater http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8737 Wed, 13 Feb 2013 23:00:00 GMT The artwork of two LVHS students has been chosen for the 23rd Annual Legislature Exhibit in Albany.Juniors Kristen Murray and Alana LaPreziosa submitted paintings from their International Baccalaureate SL portfolio.Sponsored by the Long Island Art Teachers Association (LIATA), the art exhibit features student artwork from across Long Island. Art teacher Melanie Mooney said it is wonderful that organizations such as LIATA showcase student art work in prominent locations such as the legislative offices. “Through exhibits such as this one, many people can enjoy the work of our talented students.” The artwork will be on display March 4–8 at the Legislative Office Building, “Well” Area in Albany. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9155 Wed, 13 Feb 2013 11:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Central School District congratulates physical education teacher Carolyn Collins for receiving the Section VIII Distinguished Service Award from the New York State Athletic Administrators Association. Ms. Collins was recognized for receiving this award, by the LVCSD Board of Education. The award is given to an individual who has made a significant difference in athletics. Ms. Collins teaches middle school and high school physical education and was nominated for the award by the district’s Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics, Mark J. Dantuono. He explained that Ms. Collins exemplifies the dedication to athletics that students deserve and her hard work “Her unprecedented commitment to our student-athletes as a coach and her exceptional involvement in our Athletic Council are some of the reasons why I nominated her and why she deserved this honor,” said Mr. Dantuono. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9153 Wed, 13 Feb 2013 08:00:00 GMT An important presentation on Internet Safety will be given Wednesday, Feb. 13 at 6:30 p.m. in the HS/MS auditorium. All parents are encouraged to attend this informative presentation by an Assistant District Attorney, that can help you learn how to protect your children. Click her for more information. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9143 Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the entire wrestling program for an outstanding performance at the Nassau County Division II Championships. The team won its second consecutive Division II County Title!! The coaches did an amazing job all year led by Joe Enea, Tim Bellisari and Patrick Daddino. Results of the event are as follows: Nassau County Division II Champions (These 7 Champions are all advancing to the NYS Wrestling State Championships Feb. 22-23 in Albany) 99 lbs champion Bryan Coll 106 lbs champion Hunter Dusold 113 lbs champion Nick Casella 132 lbs champion Sam Ward 145 lbs champion Mike Dusold 160 lbs champion Jordan Formicola 170 lbs champion Yamique Webb Second Place Finishers 170 lbs 2nd place Joe Bressingham Third Place Finishers 99 lbs Pat Briody 120 lbs Erik Villalobos 126 lbs Dan Casalino 170 lbs Sam Farren 182 lbs Brian Drewes 195 lbs Kevin Reiger Fourth Place Finishers 152 lbs Jason Henris 285 lbs Alec Chiappone Other Awards Most Pins Least Amount of Time Won by Nick Casella with 3 pins at a total of 4:54 minutes Champion of Champions Won by Bryan Coll The Wrestling Finals will air on Verizon FiOS TV FiOS1 (Channel 1) on Wed 2/13/13 at 7:30 PM. The finals will also be available in the FiOS1 Local Zone folder (Free Video On Demand). Thank you to Phil Bellisari for the photos. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8777 Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Bayville students created impressive visual arts artwork, musical compositions, literature, and photography for the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) National Reflections program. Themed, “The Magic of a Moment,” the program is sponsored by the national PTA and student submissions that win at the Bayville level move on to the county level, with the opportunity to advance to the state and national levels. Bayville Primary and Intermediate School children may submit original works, which are judged blindly with the winners moving on to the next level of competition. The program is intended to encourage children to explore the arts and to express themselves through creativity. Submissions must represent the theme, which changes each year. “The Reflections program allows children to explore their own creativity and to interpret the theme in their own way,” said Bayville Elementary Principal Scott McElhiney. “ Every child participating is recognized for their efforts, promoting positive self esteem and confidence as well.” Bayville PTA member Susan Spampinato is the Reflections Chairperson and organizes the event and the entries. “All of the children work hard on their submissions and deserve recognition,” she said. Six of this year’s submissions will move ahead to the county level. Those pieces include artwork by Micaela Arana, grade 2; Abigail Dunne, grade 4; Lizzy Flory, grade 5; Lindsay Hogan, grade 3; David Hower, grade 4; and Robert Lederer, grade 2. Congratulations to all the participants! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9161 Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The LVMS National Junior Honor Society Induction Ceremony has been rescheduled for March 21, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. in the HS Auditorium. Mandatory rehearsal dates for current and new inductees are March 20 and March 21 from 2:45 – 3:30 pm in the HS Auditorium. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9116 Tue, 12 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Due to the anticipated snow storm, Bayville Primary School's "Night at the Circus" scheduled for Friday, Feb. 8, has been rescheduled for Monday Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. in the BI auditorium. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9042 Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Boys and Girls Basketball games against Friends Academy, originally scheduled for Friday, February 8th have been rescheduled to Thursday February 7th as follows: Boys JV Basketball at Friends Academy at 4:15 p.m. Boys Varsity Basketball at Friends Academy at 6 p.m. Girls JV Basketball at home at 4:15 p.m. Girls Varsity Basketball at home at 6 p.m. (Senior Night) http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9026 Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School is proud to announce that one of its students has been named a National Merit Scholarship Finalist. Doug Edwins achieved this honor based on his exceptional performance on the Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test (PSAT).The College Board bestows this honor upon less than one percent of high school seniors nationwide each year, yet this is the fourth consecutive year that Locust Valley High School has had a finalist. Earlier this school year, two students, Emma Gugerty and Theodore Kahn were named National Merit Commended students for their performance on the same exam. Doug was named a semifinalist, making him eligible to become a finalist. The PSAT was taken by 1.5 million high school juniors in 2011. Of those students, Doug is among an elite group of 15,000 finalists nationwide. The College Board shares the names of students who earn these distinctions with colleges and universities. As a finalist, Doug is now eligible to receive scholarships of $10,000 towards his college education. These scholarships can come from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, corporate sponsors, or the universities the finalists attend. Locust Valley Central School District congratulates Doug on this elite accomplishment! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=9030 Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8736 Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the student-athletes that will represent LVHS at the Class B Nassau County Winter Track Championships on Thursday Feb. 7 at St. Anthony's High School 6:30 p.m. Good luck to the coaches Katherine Murawski and Ashley Cannone and all of the qualifiers. The following athletes have qualified for the Winter Track and Field County Championship Meet: Boys Danny Basile, 55 meters Eddie Giarrizzo, 55 meter hurdles Hayden Walsh, 600 meters Scott Udisky, 4X800 meters Charlie Compono Patrick Vaughan Hayden Walsh Dylan Miluso Girls Grace Murphy, 1000 and 600 meters Grainne O’Neill, 600 meters Maggie Reid, 1500 meters Taylor Bleistein, 300 meters Haley Breen ,4X400 meters Siobhan O’Neill Grace Murphy Grainne O’Neill Maggie Reid Amanda Weiss http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8971 Fri, 01 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT Please click below to view an important letter regarding MRSA To view letter, click here. Please click below to view an important letter from the athletic office regarding Impetigo. To view letter, click here. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8922 Fri, 01 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT The National Junior Honor Society Induction scheduled for tonight is cancelled and will be rescheduled. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8945 Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Dear Students and Parents, Selecting courses each year is an extremely important process. While the course guide presents valuable information, we recognize that many parents and students often have questions that extend beyond the written description of the course. With this in mind we have coordinated our first Course Information Evening. Please join us on Tuesday January 29 from 4:00pm – 6:30pm in the high school cafeteria. Many of our teachers will be available to discuss specific information and share materials which relate to the courses they currently teach. You and your child will have the opportunity to discuss, course requirements, assessments, expectations, sample projects and much, much more. The format will be similar to a college fair which allows you to come at a convenient time and stay for as long as you are available. This is a wonderful time for you to see first-hand the variety of elective courses we offer as well as exposure to many of the IB and AP courses that make Locust Valley the wonderful high school that we are. We genuinely look forward to sharing our teachers and courses with you and hope you will join us for this unique opportunity. This event will be followed by our College Application Workshop at 7:00pm in the Auditorium, which will include an informative presentation open to all. The teachers, counselors and administrators look forward to seeing all of you on Tuesday January 29th. As always if you have any further questions please feel free to contact us. Sincerely, Rebecca Gottesman Assistant Principal Locust Valley High school http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8865 Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Wearing pajamas, sunglasses, a crazy hairstyle, red clothes, and team jerseys are all ways in which students at AMP and LVI are going to fight bullying. Sponsored by the Site Based team, anti-bullying theme days will take place each month, bringing awareness to the topic. An assembly at AMP showcased the themes for students, raising awareness and anticipation. Parents volunteered to dress up giving the primary school children a visual idea of what the theme days would like. The first of the themes, Pajama Day, was a fun way for students to share the message “Say Goodnight to Bullying.” Children in Kindergarten through fifth grade donned slippers, flannel pajamas, and their favorite teddy bears and discussed ways to end bullying. Following pajama day, the ongoing anti-bullying program will encourage students to dress for other themes including: • "Team Up Against Bullying” – wear team jerseys • “If You See Something, Say Something,” – wear sunglasses • “Turn Your Back on Bullying” – wear shirts inside out • "Have a Heart – Do Your Part” – wear red clothing • “Be Unique – Don’t Follow a Bully” – wear a unique or crazy hairstyle Locust Valley Elementary Principal Dr. Sophia Gary said using fun themes helps children to focus on the message. “Wearing pajamas is fun for them and reminds them all day that they have the power to ‘Say Goodnight to Bullies’,” she explained. Dr, Gary said Pajama Day was a success and the children are looking forward to the next dress-up day. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8873 Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students at Locust Valley Intermediate School were involved in a seven-week awareness and fundraising campaign to help bring clean drinking water to a war-torn village in rural South Sudan. The project, sponsored in part by the Locust Valley Elementary Parents’ Council, came to a close this fall with a $5,000 goal being realized. LVI students and their families raised an impressive $4,200. As students and staff returned to school this past September, they were resolute in having our school community reach the $5,000 goal. A contribution at this level insures that the school’s name will be permanently inscribed on a well to be dug during the next dry season (which begins this December and ends in May). This fall, the Locust Valley Elementary Parents’ Council generously offered to donate proceeds of the ‘Back to School’ Bake Sales. Contributions were also made by LVI parents at the school picnic this fall, bringing the fundraising total to the goal of $5,000. The generosity of the LVEPC and the various parents donating to the cause is greatly appreciated. On their own, the students raised close to $3,000 – an incredible amount for fifth graders – or anyone for that matter. Organized by LVI Librarian Anne Joyce, Science Lab Instructor Caroline McBride, and Computer Lab Teacher Maria Sidor, the project tied in with the science and social studies curriculums and brought to light that ‘where you live impacts how you live’. Our students may now better understand this statement after Long Island was greatly damaged by Hurricane Sandy and the Nor’Easter, This year Mrs. Joyce, Mrs. McBride, and Mrs. Sidor are planning an awareness and fundraising project that targets a more local community … our Long Island community. Stay tuned. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8843 Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Students at Bayville and Locust Valley Elementary Schools immersed themselves in all things Dan Yaccarino, a popular children’s author and illustrator, in preparation for his visit to the schools. Reading his books and creating artwork based on the stories was a fun way for young readers to learn about his writing style and his illustrations. Hearing from the author himself, showed the children what goes into creating a book, from the writing to sketching out the story as a rough draft. Mr. Yaccarino showed the kindergarten through fifth-graders how his illustrations evolved from an idea, to a sketch, to a black and white drawing, and finally to a full color picture. Sponsored by the LVE Parents Council and the Bayville PTA, students had the opportunity to purchase books signed by the author, something that will help them remember his visit for a long time. The librarians and art teachers in each of the schools dedicated lessons to his books, which cover topics such as underwater sea life and cooking, as well as teaching important lessons about self-confidence. Mr. Yaccarino encouraged the students to follow their dreams. Many thanks to the parents and the school librarians for bringing this wonderful presentation to the children. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8855 Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Appropriate staff in each of the LVCSD schools has been trained on concussion management – an important safety protocol that can make a difference in the recovery of a child sustaining a concussion. While New York State has implemented the Concussion Management Awareness Act, Locust Valley is one of only a few districts that have taken this management program all the way down to the elementary level. The state’s mandate requires that coaches, physical education teachers, nurses and athletic trainers complete a biennial certification program. However, Locust Valley has provided training for the staff at the elementary level in addition to the required training. The elementary staff members were presented with the same material that is taught to the coaches, physical education teachers, nurses and athletic trainers at the middle school and high school. This includes recognizing the symptoms of a concussion, how to monitor a child who has a possible concussion and learning the appropriate treatment to seek if necessary. Presented by the district’s Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics, Mark J. Dantuono and Assistant Athletic Trainer Tony Marra, school staff was also alerted to possible symptoms of post-traumatic concussion syndrome. Following a lecture and slide show, the participants were given the opportunity to ask questions on any of the topics covered. “There was a great response to this training,” said Mr. Dantuono. “The staff was very receptive to having as much information as possible that could help one of their students.” Mr. Marra explained that although there are no formal athletic programs at the elementary level, a concussion may occur from a number of accidents, such as a child hitting his or her head on a desk, falling in the playground, or bumping into another child. “It can happen anywhere and our staff will be prepared to recognize, react, and respond should it happen in school,” said Mr. Marra. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8849 Wed, 23 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The LVCSD Administration and the Board of Education continue to be committed to maintaining the safety of our students. To that end, the Board of Education meeting on Jan. 16, 2013 included an interim report from the District Safety Committee, which is currently reviewing the District Safety Plan. While, the District Safety Plan is reviewed and updates are made on a regular basis, the value of reviewing our plan in light of the recent tragedy in Newton, Ct. is also apparent. The report described ways in which school administrators are re-evaluating and improving safety measures and security plans for each of our schools. The District Safety Committee is reviewing our district plan as well. They are all working together to make any necessary updates in a timely fashion. Input from parents, students, faculty, and other community members are being considered. Experts in the field of school security will also serve as consultants and will review all recommendations. An updated report will be presented at the next Board of Education meeting on Feb. 6, 2013 in the Middle School/High School Mini-Theater at 8 p.m. The Jan. 16th presentation can be viewed by clicking here. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8746 Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8735 Wed, 16 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Friends who study together, succeed together. Emma Gugerty and Stephanie Bousleiman are living proof. Emma has been named Valedictorian of the Class of 2013, while her best friend Stephanie Bousleiman is the Salutatorian. The girls have been best friends since childhood. Emma Gugerty With a GPA of 108.25 weighted, Emma has worked hard to earn the number one spot in her class. She has excelled in many areas, receiving Outstanding Achievement in Spanish, English, health, math, and chemistry. She has been accepted into the National Honor Society and Tri M Music Honor Society. Emma’s participation in clubs and commitment to community service proves that being well-rounded comes naturally to her. She is a member of the Model UN, AIDS Awareness Club, Cancer Awareness Club, Environmental Club and Interact Club. She is an active member of the Sagamore Rowing Association and has volunteered her time traveling to volunteer for the Moreano World Medical Mission in Ecuador. “Her positive demeanor and energy are electrifying and you cannot help but want to be more like her,” said her guidance counselor Kelly Reno. She added that Emma continually strives to be the best that she can be.“Emma is an amazing young lady who continuously strives to be the best she can be in every aspect of her life.” Stephanie Bousleiman Stephanie has earned a 107.37 GPA to garner the position of salutatorian. Her academic success has earned her spots in the National Honor Society and National Foreign Language Honor Society. She is a recipient of the Merit Award at WAC Lighting Foundation Science Fair, has achieved mastery in science and math, excels in the Honors Science Research Program, and participates in National Science Bowl, Cancer Awareness Club, IB Leadership Club, Relay for Life and Junior Auxiliary at North Shore Hospital. Stephanie’s guidance counselor Faith Keenan described her asone of the brightest, most conscientiousand disciplined studentswith whom she has ever worked – not only a remarkable student, but an incredible athlete and a true leader as well. “Stephanie's attention to detail isremarkable, and she derives true pleasure from solving complex problems," Ms. Keenan said. "The tougher the problem the harder she works to determine a solution.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8696 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT Dear Parents, Please be aware that Tuesday, January 22nd will be a testing day for the high school. As a result, no high school classes will be held on Tuesday January 22nd due to Regents exams that will require use of most of the high school classrooms for testing throughout the day. Parents of students scheduled for the Algebra I or English Regents on Tuesday January 22nd have been notified under separate cover. Middle school and primary school classes will be in session on Tuesday, January 22nd and throughout the week. High school classes will be in session Wednesday through Friday, January 23-25 even though Regents exams are also scheduled for those days because the number of students sitting for the Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday Regents is insufficient to cancel classes on those days. BOCES classes at Barry Tech and LI HS for the Arts will also be in session throughout the week, Tuesday through Friday. Interscholastic high school sports competitions are not scheduled during Regents week in January due to the various testing requirements of the public schools in Nassau County. Due to testing, our sports teams’ practice schedules may be modified. Please consult with your child’s coaches. Please email me at kmcguire@lvcsd.k12.ny.us or call me at 277-5105 if you have further questions. Please CLICK HERE FOR TESTING SCHEDULE Please CLICK HERE FOR BUS SCHEDULE Please CLICK HERE FOR LV AREA STOPS Please CLICK HERE FOR BAYVILLE STOPS Please CLICK HERE FOR BROOKVILLE STOPS Sincerely yours, Kieran J. McGuire, Ed.D. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8703 Tue, 15 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The school lunch system you have known as mynutrikids.com recently merged with a new company and is now myschoolbucks.com. Students and parents can expect to receive the same great service from this system as in the past. Due to this administrative change, parents need to log on to the system and update their email preferences, which did not transfer from mynutrikids.com. Taking this step will ensure that you receive emails when your student’s lunch balance is low. If you do not log on and set your preferences, you will not receive notification that the funds are low and need to be replenished. Please go to myschoolbucks.com. Your login information remains the same. Once logged in, go to the green bar on the left hand side that says e-mail preference and follow the prompts. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8691 Mon, 14 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Central School District is proud to announce that Bayville Elementary School has been nominated by the U.S. Department of Education for the possible designation of National Blue Ribbon School. Out of all public and private elementary, middle and high schools, Bayville is one of only 19 in the state of New York to be considered for this recognition. Since 1982, the U.S. Department of Education’s National Blue Ribbon Schools program has honored schools where students attain and maintain high academic goals. Schools qualify for the Blue Ribbon designation based on meeting one of two criteria: 1) being among the state’s highest performing schools, based on state assessment results in English and math; or 2) for schools that have at least 40 percent of their students come from disadvantaged backgrounds, showing the most progress in improved state assessment scores in English and math over the last five years. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund noted that the honor of being nominated for this prestigious award is well-deserved. “The students, staff and administration of Bayville Elementary School have worked hard and earned the high scores that merited this recognition.” She added that she was not surprised to hear of the nomination. “Our high school has been recognized for being among the best in the nation, and our middle school has been recognized as tops in the state. Our outstanding elementary schools are the foundation upon which these successes are built.” Winners of the Blue Ribbon School award will be announced in the fall of 2013. Being one of only 19 schools in New York to be nominated, however, is an exceptional accomplishment in itself for our Bayville Elementary School and one of which we are very proud! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8566 Mon, 07 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT LVHS Baseball players Francis Prettitore and Josh Zekraus will be featured in Long Island Baseball Magazine as tops in the county. Francis and Josh will represent Locust Valley High School in the Coaches Select Top 100 Public High School Seniors – a first-ever feature for this magazine. Josh is described as the ultimate teammate, giving his all 110 percent everyday. Francis was a game changer during the 2011-2012 baseball season. Opposing teams had to change their game plan as Francis was throwing out so many potential base stealers. Varsity Baseball Coach Michael LoGerfo said both young men are exceptional kids and great players to coach. “They are very deserving of this recognition as they are admired by teachers, coaches, and their teammates.” Nassau and Suffolk Counties each had 100 players chosen for this honor and will be featured in the February issue of Long Island Baseball Magazine. The honorees were also recognized at a recent awards ceremony. Congratulations to Francis and Josh! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8542 Mon, 07 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT IB Information Sessions Wednesday, January 9th at 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM (in the Mini Theatre) – Parents Wednesday, January 9th at 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM (in the Auditorium) – Parents and Students Dear Parent/Guardian, As you may know, Locust Valley High School’s International Baccalaureate (IB) program offers our students wonderful opportunities to challenge themselves both inside and outside of the classroom. Over the past few years, our students have increasingly accepted those challenges. In fact, more than 80% of our graduates have completed at least one college level course while at LVHS. With the course selection process beginning within the next few weeks, it is important that you and your child know how the IB Diploma Program and individual IB courses can expand students’ academic life, increase their readiness for college, and strengthen their transcripts for college applications. Mr. Buonaspina, LVHS IB Coordinator, will be conducting two IB Information Sessions on Wednesday, January 9th , in the morning at 8:30 AM in the Mini Theatre and in the evening at 7 PM in the High School Auditorium. These sessions are designed to address the needs of our current 9th and 10th grade parents. However, all parents, especially those of current 8th grade students, are welcome to attend. Our hope is that you will be able to attend at least one of these sessions. The morning session is designed for parents only, and will include similar information to the evening session. There will be a couple of our current IB students available as well to assist with answering student directed questions about the program. The evening session is designed though for both parent and child and will also include some of our current IB students as part of the presentation. • Wednesday, January 9th at 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM (in the Mini Theatre) – Parents • Wednesday, January 9th at 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM (in the Auditorium) – Parents and Students We hope that you are able to attend one of these sessions. If you are unable to make either presentation, but still wish to learn more about the IB program at LVHS, please feel free to contact Mr. Buonaspina to arrange a time and place to discuss this program directly with him. He can be reached at 277-5157 or via email at rbuonaspina@lvcsd.k12.ny.us. We look forward to seeing you on January 9th. Sincerely, Kieran J. McGuire, Ed.D. . Principal, LVHS kmcguire@lvcsd.k12.ny.us http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8554 Fri, 04 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT LVHS presents The 7th Annual Writers/Directors’ Monologue Workshop: “MASK” ORIGINAL DRAMATIC AND COMEDIC SCRIPTS written and performed by LVHS students Thurs. January 17th, 2013, 7-8 pm, Mini-Theater, LVHS FREE GENERAL ADMISSION With Scripts and Performances by: T.J.Ferrari Mary Kate Guma Anne Hollmuller Stela Ieraci Richard Kihm Andre Lucas Jamie Murcott Samantha Prosser Nicole Scotto Jessica Turner Directed and Produced by Mrs. Bolitho and Mr. Lynch http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8539 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT With the holidays upon us, the beautiful sound of Locust Valley music is in the air. Winter concerts at each of our schools provided a spirited way to take a break from our hectic schedules. At the LVHS winter concert, the newest members of the Tri-M Honor Society were inducted. This exclusive club, a program of MENC: The National Association for Music Education, admits student musicians on the basis of scholarship, character, cooperation, leadership, and service. The following students were inducted into the Tri-M Honor Society for the 2012-2013 school year: Hannah Chiu, Grade 10, Flute-Band/Chorus Daniel Criblez, Grade10, Bass Guitar- Band Brianna Ekloff, Grade 12, Violin- Orchestra/Chorus William Jensen, Grade 10, Trombone- Band Kathleen LaMere, Grade 10, Soprano – Chorus Claire Lynch, Grade 11, Alto- Chorus Sarah Miller, Grade 10, Cello- Orchestra Michaela Passero, Grade 11, Soprano- Chorus Ishan Prasad, Grade 11, Double Bass- Orchestra/ Chorus Sarah Reinhardt, Grade 12, Soprano- Chorus Kimberly Sabio, Grade 10, Trumpet- Band Brendan Wright, Grade 10, Trumpet- Band Congratulations to the inductees and to all the musicians entertaining us this holiday season! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8421 Thu, 20 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Nassau County Fall 2012 Section VIII Athletic Awards Congratulations to the LVHS outstanding student-athletes on their accomplishments during the fall athletic season. The following students were honored with awards: First Name Last Name Grade Sport Award as of 12/14/12 Brendan Wright 10 Boys Cross Country Unsung Hero Constantine Linardos 11 Boys Soccer All-Conference Alex Van Patten 11 Boys Soccer All-Conference Michael Trinder 12 Boys Soccer Scholar-Athlete Gaby DeAngelis 10 Field Hockey All-Conference Lydia Volpe 10 Field Hockey All-Conference Emily Schlicht 11 Field Hockey All-Conference Preston Tansill 11 Field Hockey All-Conference Julia Palermo 12 Field Hockey All-County Colleen McConie 12 Field Hockey All-League Lauren Sidor 12 Field Hockey Exceptional Senior Jesse Spear 12 Field Hockey Scholar-Athlete Lindsay Bleistein 10 Field Hockey Unsung Hero Ryan Paniagua 12 Football All-Conference Matt Vezza 11 Football All-Conference Kevin Rieger 12 Football All-County Louis Jokinsky 11 Football All-County - Honorable Mention Alexandra Koniaev 9 Girls Tennis All-Conference Anastasia Koniaev 7 Girls Tennis All-Conference Nitsa Nastasi 10 Girls Tennis All-Conference Frances Raynolds 11 Girls Tennis All-Division Emily Friedman 9 Girls Tennis All-Division Anna Patterson 11 Girls Tennis All-Division Jenny Harrington 11 Girls Tennis All-Division Katie Ryan 11 Girls Tennis Sportsmanship ALL FALL 2012 TEAMS ACHIEVED NYS SCHOLAR-ATHLETE TEAM RECOGNITION: Volleyball 95.1; Girls Cross Country 94.736; Girls Soccer 94.276; Girls Tennis 94.097; Field Hockey 94.093; Boys Soccer 93.513; Boys Cross Country 92.986; Cheerleading 92.0; Boys Golf 90.529; Football 90.394 TEAM ACHIEVEMENTS Boys Soccer - Team Sportsmanship Award Girls Tennis - Conference IIIA Regular Undefeated Champions – Playoffs Runner-Up Girls Cross Country - Team Qualified for County Finals Field Hockey - Advanced to the Nassau County Class B Semifinals Football - Finished 5th in Conference - Advanced to Nassau County Quarterfinals http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8400 Wed, 19 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT (Please see enhanced list of resources at the bottom of this page) Dear Community Members, As you know, a tragic shooting took place on Friday, December 14th at an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the Newtown community. The attack highlights the importance of the security measures and response plans which are in place in our own district in order to ensure the safety and well-being of our students and faculty. Our District Safety Plan is reviewed and updates are made on a regular basis. The value of reviewing our plan in light of this latest tragedy is also apparent. To that end, I have asked that our administrators re-evaluate safety measures and security plans immediately for each of our schools and that our District Safety Committee review our district plan as well. In addition, our mental health professionals will be prepared on Monday, December 16th, as always, to answer questions and concerns from our students, their parents and our faculty members. Under these circumstances, parents may want to limit their children's access to details of the tragedy and to related media reports. Despite such attempts, children may, and probably will, hear about the events in Newtown anyway. Most important, they may share questions and express concerns. As I stated previously, please know that on Monday, as always, our guidance counselors and psychologists will be available to provide support, answer questions and address concerns from students, parents and faculty. Our mental health professionals can be reached by calling the Main Offices in each school. As always, our teachers and administrators are also here to provide needed assistance and support. Please do not hesitate to contact them. Parents who would like to access additional information immediately should consider using the following resources: The National Association of School Psychologists:http://www.nasponline.org/resources/handouts/revisedPDFs/talkingviolence.pdf. It contains an informative and insightful document entitled, "Talking Tips about Violence: A Guide for Parents and Teachers." Information is from The New York Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/15/health/tips-for-talking-to-children-about-the-elementary-school-mass-shooting.html?_r=0 http://www.childrensnational.org/files/PDF/DepartmentsandPrograms/ichoc/SchoolShooting.pdf http://www.aboutourkids.org/articles/school_shootings_helping_teens_cope_guide_parents http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15109195/ns/health-childrens_health/t/how-talk-your-kids-about-shootings/ In the event that I can be of any assistance, please call or write. Sincerely, Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund Superintendent of Schools http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8282 Tue, 18 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Wrestling Team won the season’s home opener with a strong performance over the Marines of Long Beach.Louis Falciano opened the match with a 2-1 victory and gave the Falcons an early 3-0 lead. The Falcons dropped back-to-back decisions at 285 and 99, and trailed 7-3 heading into the 106-pound match. Hunter Dusold used a 3/4 nelson to pin his opponent and put the Falcons up 9-7. Dropping the 113-pound match, the Falcons trailed 11-9 headed into the premier match of the night as Nick Casella took on Steven Sewkemar. Sewkemar is the #1 ranked wrestler in Division I. Falling behind 2-0, Casella quickly reversed Sewkemar and scored near fall points with a cradle to end the first period up 4-2 en route to a 9-2 victory. The win by the Casella was the start of 8 consecutive victories by the Falcons. John Pedranghelu, Dan Casalino and Jason Henris were all victorious by decision. Mike Dusold, Jordan Formicola and Yamique Webb won by pin, and Jay Dee Medina won a wild match at the buzzer to put the match out of reach for the Falcons. At 138 pounds, Sam ward pinned his opponent to notch his 100th Varsity win. This Locust Valley vs. Long Beach match was aired on MSG Varsity, channel 14. Way to go Falcons! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8267 Fri, 14 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7174 Wed, 12 Dec 2012 23:00:00 GMT Natalia Mahoney is celebrating her birthday in a big way … after all it’s only once that you turn 12 on 12-12-12. The LVMS sixth grader has been looking forward to this day for a long time. “Turning 12 on 12/12/12 is super cool,” Natalia said. “I can see myself in the future telling my kids about having my name in the paper for this great reason.” Natalia was quoted in Newsday and interviewed by News12 reporter Ken Grimball about her special birthday, making the day even more special. “I am the only one in my huge family of fifty relatives with a birthday with this pattern. I have been looking forward to 12/12/12 for at least a year," Natalia explained. Tune in to News12 on 12-12-12 at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. to help Natalia celebrate! Happy Birthday, Natalia! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8221 Wed, 12 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT The artwork of two students at LVI was entered in the Huntington Arts Council’s “Nightmare on Main Street,”the first-ever juried student art show at the HAC Main Street Petite Gallery in Huntington, N.Y. Allowed to submit only two pieces of student artwork, Locust Valley art teacher Dana Ettinger chose works by Joseph Kuebler and Claire Hogan to be juried for the event. Ms. Ettinger said that Joseph and Claire both created original pieces that were both creative and exceptional. “Joseph and Claire are both superb artists and deserved to be recognized in this wonderful art show,” she remarked. Joseph’s artwork was chosen by the Huntington Arts Council to move on to the exhibit.The district congratulates both students on having their work selected for submission. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8225 Tue, 11 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Fifteen middle school students attended the annual Middle School Tolerance Day, sponsored by the Nassau County Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center. The event’s purpose is to promote tolerance and diversity and to help students formulate methods to stop bullying. The students listened to a presentation by Glen Cove musician Vinnie Basile, who relayed how he overcame racism and learned to look beyond stereotypes and appreciate diversity. He performed his rap song, “Think About It,” which relates the story of Mr. Basile’s firsthand encounter with racism. The students broke into groups, where they discussed ways to promote tolerance in their own schools. It is hoped that the students will act as “Ambassadors of Tolerance” and disseminate the ideas to their fellow students here at Locust Valley. These new Ambassadors of Tolerance are scheduled to present their ideas at the next Locust Valley Middle School town meetings. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8088 Wed, 05 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Due to the storm, the National Honor Society Induction ceremony has been postponed until February 12th. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8073 Tue, 04 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Bayville Primary School students were busy writing, coloring, gift-wrapping, and having fun … all for a good cause. The students used their annual Winter Wonderland to collect and fill holiday stockings to donate to children in Long Beach as part of an effort called “Operation Sandy Clause.” Assistant Principal Dorothy McManus proposed the idea after reading about the collection on the Internet. “We are a beach community and thought we should help our fellow beach community,” she explained. Operation Sandy Clause, organized by a non-profit group in Long Beach, suggested that holiday stockings include personal notes to the children who will receive the stockings. BP students wrote messages wishing the Long Beach children good luck finding new homes, telling them that they too had flooding in their homes, and expressing sentiments of cheer. Ms. McManus read Polar Express to the children, who attended the event in their pajamas. Families brought stocking stuffers such as gloves, pencils, and gift cards to stores that Long Beach residents could reach. During the Winter Wonderland, attendees helped stuff the stockings surrounded by snowflakes, holiday decorations, and a strong sense of community. News12 will be featuring the event during a segment that will air on the evening of December 24th. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8077 Tue, 04 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Pep Band and Chamber Singers provided holiday cheer at the annual Christmas tree lightings in Locust Valley and Bayville. Performing all of the popular holiday songs, the students helped residents get in the spirit as they watched the town Christmas Trees light up and officially kick off the season. The Pep Band and Chamber Singers will be performing during the Locust Valley High School Winter Concert on December 19th at 7 p.m. in the High School auditorium. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=8078 Tue, 04 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT Turkey and cranberry sauce, feathered headdresses and statements of thanks were the theme of the day when Bayville Primary School kindergarteners enjoyed learning about the holidays in a fun way. Teachers and parent volunteers provided all the fixings for Thanksgiving feasts in Mrs. Sumcizk and Mrs. Dennis’ kindergarten classes before the holiday break. Assistant Principal Dorothy McManus said the children not only enjoyed the special holiday meal with their friends, but they learned about American history, tradition, and friendship. “The students learned about community, which is an important part of their education,” she explained. “The also used their art skills to create special costumes to wear for the feasts.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7923 Thu, 22 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Student Councils at Locust Valley Intermediate and Bayville Intermediate Schools are giving some families a little more to be thankful for this holiday season. Through the councils’ annual holiday food drive, baskets full of stuffing mix, cranberry sauce, cereal, potatoes, and more were collected and delivered to families in need. Monica Cagney, who along with Shari Zindman serves as the LVI Student Council advisor said it was the students’ drive and determination that brought so many donations in. “They really got the word out and worked hard to make this food drive a success,” Mrs. Cagney explained. “Due to the storm, we had less time for the collection and still had more food than ever before.” In Bayville, the food drive was also driven by student effort. "Bayville Intermediate School's Student Council always puts the community's needs first," said BI Principal Scott McElhiney. "Not only did they help those in need through the food drive, they also learned an important lesson about community service and what an important role it plays in the lives of those receiving and those giving." Great job by all! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7924 Thu, 22 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Thanksgiving is full of traditions, and at Ann MacArthur Primary School, the kindergarteners have a tradition of their own. Each year the Kindergarten teachers, along with the specialty teachers work together to create a special Thanksgiving sing-a-long. Students use their art skills to create costumes – half dress as Pilgrims and half dress as Native Americans. Music lessons and social studies come in to play as they learn songs about giving thanks and the history of this American holiday. What Thanksgiving celebration is complete without a feast? Families join their students for homemade Thanksgiving soup, corn bread, and popcorn eaten on Turkey shaped placemats, also created in class. The event brings many smiles to students, staff, and their families and helps get everyone in the spirit for the holiday. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7925 Thu, 22 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT All of us know that the aftermath of "Sandy" continues for manyin our school community.In addition to our residents, the impact continues to be felt by manyin our faculty, by many of our studentsand by our school district. This historic crisisstretchedour personal and professional resources to the breaking point and challenged us to acknowledge thatwe do not controlthe most important things in life or, for that matter, life itself. It also re-taught us some of the most important lessons to be learned---to nottake things or one another for granted, to be willing to provide assistance to the best of our abilities, andto be grateful when we receive the help of others. The holiday season and the beginning of the new year always provide us withopportunities to reflect, give thanks forwhat we have, plan for the future and to make it a better one for ourselves and for others. On behalf of ourstudents, faculty and Board of Education members, I hope your holidays and the New Year are filled with much love and happiness, and that all life's "storms" stay way off shore!! Dr. Anna. F. Hunderfund Superintendent of Schools http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7861 Tue, 20 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT As we continue to recover from the aftermath of "Sandy," please find the following PDF, with important information from IRS, SBA, FEMA, NY State. I hope that you find it useful. Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund Hurricane Sandy Relief - Resources from IRS, SBA, FEMA, NY State... There are additional resources listed at 211LongIsland.communityos.org/cms/ There is a button for Hurricane Sandy where there are additional resources. The 211 Long Island may be reached at 1-888-774-7633 which is operational 24 hours a day. To download and view the attachment, please click on the link below: http://www.crsadmin.com/gen/Accounts/50090/Eml/841025d0-2ff5-4f7e-b22f-07bf62365d53.pdf http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7841 Mon, 19 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Thanksgiving arrived a bit early for third graders at Locust Valley Intermediate School, thanks to the Parents’ Council. The annual third grade feast was a festive kick off to the holiday season. Complete with turkey, cranberry sauce, corn bread, and pumpkin and apple pies, the feast was an opportunity for the children to share the holiday together and discuss the things for which they are thankful. Pop-up turkeys and colorful pumpkins decorated the cafeteria as members of the LVI Parents Council served the feast with help from the faculty. Individual third grade classes spent time discussing what students were thankful for as well as the history of the holiday. One thing they are thankful for is the feast! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7846 Mon, 19 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Because of instructional time lost due to the recent storm, school will now be in session Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2013 through Friday, February 22, 2013. These days were previously designated as vacation days, and are now instructional days. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7827 Fri, 16 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education will hold a meeting on December 12, 2012 at 8 p.m. in the MS/HS Mini-Theater. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7173 Wed, 14 Nov 2012 23:00:00 GMT The Board of Education was showered with gifts and praise in celebration of Board of Education Recognition Week. From the Coordinated Parents Council to the elementary school students, appreciation was shown with hand-made cards and baked goods and specially purchased presents. It may have been the words that meant the most, with students, parents, and faculty members expressing their sincere appreciation for the Board of Education’s dedication and devotion for a job done on a volunteer basis. Board of Education President, Suzanne Sgueglia thanked the community for their thoughtfulness, saying that the expressions of kindness were greatly appreciated. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7777 Wed, 14 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Although classroom teachers include fire safety lessons in their normal curriculum, these lessons were reinforced by the Bayville and Locust Valley fire departments during special presentations. Students at Ann MacArthur Primary and Bayville Primary Schools learned from firefighters directly how to prevent fires, what to do in case of a fire, and where to get help. As the firefighters asked questions, these young students raised their hands with all the answers – they’ve been paying attention. Dressed in full gear, the firefighters explained that although they may look and sound scary, they are there to help in an emergency and children should feel safe seeing them. They were also encouraged to discuss with their families having a safe meeting place out of the house – many students exuberantly shared that they already had a meeting place. Tours of the fire trucks were a highlight of the visits for the youngsters, who had the opportunity to sit in the same seats the firefighters sit in when traveling to a fire. The Bayville Fire Department brought their trucks and gear to BP while the students from AMP went to the Locust Valley Fire Department for their lesson. Thank you to the members of the Bayville and Locust Valley Fire departments for taking the time out of their busy schedules for this important and fun lesson! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7778 Wed, 14 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT On November 5, 2012, The LVCSD Board of Education convened an emergency meeting to authorize Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund to request an extension on the due date for school taxes. On November 9, 2012, The Governor signed an executive order approving this request. School taxes that were originally due on November 10, 2012 are now due on December 1, 2012. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7786 Wed, 14 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Middle School Picture Retakes Date: Dec. 3 , 2012 Time: Lunch Periods (pds. 5,6,7) Place: Conference Room (133) http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7788 Wed, 14 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The LVCSD administrators and staff initiated a community barbecue to help feed the community just days after Hurricane Sandy hit. They braved the gas lines and the weather, and ignored their own hurricane related problems, to help the residents of Bayville who were hit hard by Hurricane Sandy. A barbecue with hot dogs, hamburgers, clam chowder and chicken soup provided hot food to residents who were cleaning out their flooded homes, sleeping in cold houses and waiting for normalcy to return. Sunday, November 4th, many administrators and staff gathered at the Bayville Fire Department to serve up the hot food. Students, residents, Board of Education members, and the Coordinated Parents’ Council contributed by helping at the barbecue and donating funds or items. Janowskis Hamburgers in Rockville Centre generously donated food. Thanks to all in our school community the who gave their time and money to help others in LVCSD! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7791 Wed, 14 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The LVCSD Coordinated Parents Council and Administrators put their own needs aside and in their usual volunteer mode collected for those hit hardest by Hurricane Sandy. The collection began at a barbecue for the community in Bayville. Donations were brought there to help those in need. Bayville Elementary Assistant Principal Dorothy McManus and Locust Valley Elementary Assistant Principal Amy Watson offered their schools as drop off points for donations. The CPC, along with faculty members, gathered donations, organized them and delivered them to central locations where residents could easily access needed items. Blankets, food and bottled water are available at the Village Church on Mountain Ave. Additional blankets, clothing, paper goods, and toiletries have been sent to the Bayville Community Center on Bayville Avenue. Items collected at the Locust Valley Elementary Schools were donated to the Grenville Baker Boys and Girls Club. Thanks to the CPC, Bayville Village employee Marie Alfono-Watson, Pastor Dave Czeisel, Mayor Watson, and LVCSD administrators and staff for being a part of this generous effort. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7792 Wed, 14 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT FINANCIAL AID NIGHT Dear Parents and Students, November 9, 2012 Financial Aid is a serious consideration for any student attending college. We realize that many of you may need more information about the financial aid process, the type of aid available and the way in which you go about applying for aid. With college application deadlines drawing near, we have set aside the evening of Tuesday, November 13, 2012, at 7:00PM to host our “Financial Aid Workshop”. Our goal is for all of you to better understand this daunting process. We are truly fortunate to have Dr. Jacquelyn Nealon, Vice President for Enrollment, Communications and Marketing Admissions of NYIT as our guest speaker. Dr. Nealon will give an overview of the FAFSA form, discuss the CSS profile and review critical deadlines. Most importantly, she will provide valuable information with respect to the entire financial aid process, provide line by line suggestions for each question on the FAFSA application and answer any questions you have relative to securing financial assistance. For more detailed information or to download relevant forms please visit the FAFSA website at www.fafsa.ed.gov . Please join us in the high school cafeteria for this extremely important seminar. The counselors and I look forward to seeing you there! Sincerely yours, Rebecca Gottesman Assistant Principal Locust Valley High School http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7659 Fri, 09 Nov 2012 09:00:00 GMT The International Food Festival, scheduled for Friday, November 9th has been cancelled. The event, sponsored by LVE Parents' Council, will be rescheduled at a future date. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7669 Fri, 09 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to our varsity teams heading to the playoffs! The Varsity Field Hockey team advanced to the Nassau County Class B Semi-Finals against Manhasset HS. This will be played on Friday November 9, 2 p.m. at Manhasset HS. The Varsity Football team advanced to the Nassau County Conference IV Quarter-finals against Valley Stream HS North. This will be played on Saturday November 10, 1:30 p.m. at Valley Stream HS North. Congratulations and Good Luck to the student-athletes and their coaches! Go Falcons! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7655 Fri, 09 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT MS Winter Athletics will begin on Tuesday, November 13, 2012 and Wednesday, November 14, 2012 On Tuesday November 13, boys basketball try-outs will be held at LVHS gymnasium at 3 p.m. Girls volleyball will begin on Wednesday, November 14 with try-outs at AMP. Students will be bused to AMP and return buses will be provided back to LVMS after each practice. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7656 Fri, 09 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT LVHS Blood Drive - Friday, November 9th - Mini-Theater, 7:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. Your donation will help to save up to three lives. Our community hospitals need your help. Please share this lifesaving gift! Eligibility Criteria: * Bring ID with signature or photo. * Minimum weight 110 lbs. * Age 16 – 75 (16 year olds must have parental permission. Age 76 and over need doctor’s note) * Eat well (low fat) & drink fluids * No tattoos for past 12 months * For questions concerning medical eligibility call 1-800-688-0900. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact: Ms. LaBella 516-277-5219 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7648 Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education will hold a special meeting on Monday, Nov. 5 at 11:30 a.m. in the Administration Building. It is anticipated that the Board will go immediately into Executive Session to discuss personnel and legal matters. Click here for the notice. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7522 Mon, 05 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT Below is an important update regarding College Application Deadline Extensions for those affected by Hurricane Sandy. Please click the link below for the extensions: http://www.nacacnet.org/media-center/Documents/HurricaneSandy.pdf Deadline extensions for SUNY schools is as follows: Early Decision Dates Extended to November 9 University at Buffalo SUNY Fredonia Early Decision Dates Extended to November 15 Buffalo State College Maritime College Early Decision Dates Extended to November 29 College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) SUNY Geneseo SUNY Oswego Early Action Dates Extended to November 29 University at Albany Binghamton University SUNY Cortland SUNY New Paltz Old Westbury College at Oneonta Purchase College SUNYIT Should students need additional time after these deadlines, counselors will be happy to assist students in contacting the campus directly. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7508 Sat, 03 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT The SAT exams scheduled at Locust Valley High School on Saturday, November 3, 2012 have been rescheduled for Saturday, November 17, 2012. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7497 Fri, 02 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT All Locust Valley schools will remain closed on Tuesday, October 30th due to the storm. The recent high tide has caused significant flooding in parts of our district and the current flooding will worsen with the high tide tonight. To compound things, very high winds will continue into tomorrow. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7451 Mon, 29 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The first inductees into the Locust Valley Hall of Fame were honored at an induction ceremony and dinner that also unveiled the Wall of Fame to the community. Thanks to the generosity of Falcon Pride, the Wall of Fame digitally highlights exceptional athletes from Locust Valley’s history. A selection committee chose this year’s honorees for their contributions to Locust Valley sports and their athletic success after high school – both in college and in the pros. Frank Brickowski (Class of 1997), Carl DeStefanis (Class of 1980), John Mohring (Class of 1974) and Fred Smith (a coach from 1967-1998) were honored at the high school by LVCSD administrators, the Board of Education and Falcon Pride. The ceremony followed the school’s homecoming festivities, at which the inductees were introduced during halftime. Fred Smith, who died this fall, was represented by family members who accepted the honor with pride. Mark J. Dantuono, Locust Valley’s director of health, physical education and athletics, welcomed the honorees and guests to the ceremony, which was open to the entire community. Mr. Dantuono thanked Falcon Pride for providing the school district with such a beautiful format for showcasing athletes. Following the ceremony, Falcon Pride provided a free catered barbecue for all in attendance. To read biographies of each inductee, click on the inductee's name below: Frank Brickowski Carl DeStefanis John Mohring Fred Smith http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7456 Sun, 28 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT We all know that Locust Valley students and staff are superheroes – at this year’s homecoming, they proved it! The day’s superhero theme meant floats, costumes and banners depicting the LV Falcon in various superhero forms. Freshman, sophomores, juniors and seniors each created a superhero float for the parade that took them from Centre Island through Bayville and Locust Valley before arriving at the high school for the homecoming festivities. Senior football players, cheerleaders and kickline members were honored as they prepared to participate in the last homecoming game of their high school careers. Called up individually with their parents, the seniors were thanked for their dedication and gifted with flowers. The football game against West Hempstead began with fans cheering in the stands, dressed in Locust Valley green, and listening to the sounds of the Locust Valley band. Halftime brought the introduction of Locust Valley’s own superheroes – the Wall of Fame honorees. Performances by the kickline and cheerleaders provided spirited entertainment, as did a performance by the LVHS band. Finally, the crowning of the homecoming court brought the nominated students front and center, awaiting the results of the vote by the student population. All of the nominees were winners, but crowned that day were seniors Johnny Morgan and Julia Ryan homecoming king and queen; John Pedranghelu and Kaylee Flanagan for freshmen prince and princess, Sam Ward and Caroline Rawa as sophomore prince and princess; and Owen McBride and Samantha Fornaro for junior prince and princess. The homecoming school spirit award went to the senior class, and the freshman class took first place for best float. Thanks to the hard work of staff, students and parents, this year’s homecoming was a spirited and fun way to celebrate Locust Valley’s student athletes. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7455 Sat, 27 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7172 Wed, 24 Oct 2012 23:00:00 GMT The sixth-grade pot luck dinner was so much more than a meal. The annual event gave sixth graders and their families an opportunity to meet each other and have a fun night, while bringing together various groups to make the event a success. High school art students painted pumpkins to be raffled off, the culinary club baked goodies for the dinner, and the art club painted the windows as decoration. Parents donated casseroles, baked goods, drinks, and more. The evening began with a beautiful slide show of the sixth grade class, showcasing their first year of middle school so far. Special thanks to all those who worked hard to make this evening so enjoyable! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7415 Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Please note that the Homecoming football game has been moved to 3:00 p.m. due to a conflict with college testing (ACTs). While homecoming always spurs an intense amount of Falcon spirit, this year’s homecoming will include an extra reason to celebrate. Thanks to the generosity of Falcon Pride, the high school now boasts a Wall of Fame, which displays the high school’s exceptional athletes from the past and present. Following Homecoming, the first honorees will be inducted into the Hall of Fame. We hope you will join us for a full day of festivities: Saturday, October 27, 2012 12:30 p.m. Homecoming Float Parade Begins at Centre Island 1:30 p.m. Judging of Floats 1:45 p.m. Senior Celebration Day 3:00 p.m. Varsity Football Game 5:00 p.m. Wall of Fame Induction Ceremony Honoring: Frank Brickowski (Class of ‘77) Carl DeStefanis(Class of ‘80) John Mohring (Class of ‘74) Fred Smith (Coach ‘69-’98) Following the ceremony, Falcon Pride will host a free barbecue. Please RSVP to: Cathy Rapelje, 655-6276 or Steve Minicozzi, 807-9953. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7298 Mon, 22 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT On October 11, 2012, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund testified before the New York State Education Reform Committee on behalf of our school district. Dr. Hunderfund was one of a number of speakers, joined in attendance at the hearing by Board of Education members, parents, community residents, and faculty members. In fact, it appeared that LVCSD had more representatives in attendance than any other Long Island school district. The Education Reform Committee, organized by Governor Cuomo, has a broad mandate (see below for the actual charge to the committee) to make recommendations to improve the education system. Dr. Hunderfund expressed serious concerns regarding costly, unfunded instructional mandates, which continue to be imposed by the state on all school districts – including those whose students are already achieving at extremely high levels. She noted that New York State recently named every Locust Valley CSD school as a Reward School: the only district in Nassau County and one of only ten in the state to have all of its schools receive this designation. In addition, she documented that Newsweek, The Washington Post and U.S. News and World Report all rank Locust Valley among the best high schools in the country, lending credence to the notion that these costly unfunded mandates are actually harmful to the quality of education in Locust Valley, and to taxpayers who have to bear the financial burden. Compliance with these unfunded mandates will ultimately force the elimination of meaningful, educationally valuable programs and drive the tax burden higher. Dr. Hunderfund’s testimony to the committee can be read by clicking here. The charge of New York State Education Reform Committee: “Examine the current structure of the state's education system through the lens of what is in the best interest of students. The Commission shall comprehensively review and assess New York State's education system, including its structure, operation and processes, with the goal of uncovering successful models and strategies and developing long-term efficiencies that will create significant savings while improving student achievement and providing students a high-quality education. The Commission will explore best practices and models from other states and nations that could be implemented in New York. The Education Reform Commission will make recommendations for improving our education system. The Commission will study ways to strengthen teacher recruitment and performance; improve student achievement; increase parent and family engagement; use technology in the classroom; help high-need and low-wealth school communities; and manage educational funding and costs. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7368 Sun, 21 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The number of full-time administrators in the District has decreased significantly during the past four years. In an effort to reduce costs, the District has eliminated seven administrative positions and reassigned those duties to other people. Each of the school principals has taken on additional duties that allow for significant savings. Building administrators are now acting as the Director of Art, Technology, Special Education, Guidance, and more. Additionally, Superintendent Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund has taken on the role of Assistant Superintendent of Educational Operations, Curriculum, and Instruction, District Director of Technology, part-time Director of Human Resources, and part-time Director of Special Education. The Administration and Board of Education are committed to providing superior services in the most cost-effective manner. These changes accomplish that goal. The chart below shows the specifics of the positions eliminated, without any disruption to services.
 Administrative Positions 2008-2009 Superintendent Assist. Supt. Curriculum, Instruction & Operations Asst. Supt–Business Asst. Supt.–Human Resources Director of Technology Director of Pupil Personnel Services Asst. Director of Pupil Personnel Services Asst. Business Manager Director of Guidance Director of Foreign Language Director of Music MS Dean of Students 2012-2013 Superintendent Asst. Supt.-Business Part Time Part Time http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7306 Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT To view a short video clip of this presentation, click here. Tuesday, October 16th, 7 p.m. - Locust Valley High School is holding an important presentation on bullying, cyber bullying, and teen depression. Bullying, Cyber Bullying, and Teen Depression: “Ryan’s Story” is the powerful and inspiring story of a 13-year-old suicide victim who could not handle the bullying he was facing. To view the Ryan's Story website, click here. Ryan’s father, John Halligan leads this presentation all over the nation. His efforts to prevent bullying have been featured on national television shows including Oprah, Good Morning America, Anderson Cooper, and more. The personal home videos, family stories, and depiction of a warm, friendly child, will give you the inside picture of a family dealing with bullying. The audience will also gain unique perspective on life after such a tragedy, forgiveness, and hope. Join us for this important program and be part of the effort to put an end to bullying and cyber bullying! Working together, we can save lives! To read acopy of the letter sent home regarding this presentation, click here. Tuesday, October 16th at 7 p.m. in the LVHS auditorium. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6824 Fri, 12 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education will hold a meeting on October 24, 2012 at 8 p.m. in the MS/HS Mini-Theater. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7171 Wed, 10 Oct 2012 23:00:00 GMT Three Locust Valley High School artists will have their work displayed at the Harvest Festival. The event, taking place in Locust Valley, is an art show featuring the work of local artists. Community members can vote on the artwork and awards for first, second and third place will be given. Junior Ariana Falzarano and freshman Arthur Babcock each submitted digital photographs, while sophomore Chelsea Jaworski entered a vibrant colored pencil tiger titled “Give Me Some Nachos and Cheese.” Voting will take place on Saturday, Oct. 13, from 12-4 p.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7183 Wed, 10 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT All Locust Valley Schools will dismiss students 10 minutes early this Friday, October 12th. The State Education Department requires that school districts have an early dismissal as part of their emergency drills. This mandate is the reason for this Friday's early dismissal. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7157 Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT LVHS Senior Douglas Edwins has been named a semifinalist in the National Merit Scholarship Competition. He is now eligible to qualify as a National Merit Finalist. Douglas earned this outstanding national recognition from the College Board for his exceptional achievements on the PSAT in October, 2011. Two students, Emma Gugerty and Theodore Kahn were named National Merit Commended students for their achievement on the same exam. Based on student achievement and sponsored annually by the College Board, the ability to earn the semifinalist designation is an honor afforded to only one percent of the more than 1.5 million students who achieve the highest scores on the PSATs, which are taken by juniors across the country every year. In addition, the College Board shares the names of the students who earn these distinctions with colleges and universities. Advancing to National Merit Finalist status will afford Douglas the opportunity to qualify for more than $36 million in National Merit Scholarships, which will be announced in February, 2013. To be eligible to advance to the finalist stage of the competition, Douglas will be required to submit a detailed scholarship application with information about his academic record, participation in school and community activities, leadership abilities, honors, and awards. Theodore and Emma received commended status by placing in the top five percent of those taking the 2012 PSAT. Their accomplishment will be shared with colleges and universities to which they apply. Locust Valley High School has been proud to be the home to several semifinalists over the past few years. A few of those semifinalists continued on to become finalists and earn scholarships. Congratulations to Douglas, Emma, and Theodore on their outstanding achievements! 

 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6921 Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The LVCSD Board of Education is aware that many residents received their tax bills over the past few days. Although some of these tax bills reflect a school tax increase higher than the homeowner may have expected, the school district tax levy increase remains at 2.6 percent, which is what voters approved in May. That literally means what the Board said in the spring: the school district is getting 2.6% more in total tax revenue over last year, as approved by voters. LVCSD, along with all of the school districts in the County, submitted this tax levy to Nassau County after it was approved by residents. This lets the County know that the total amount of taxes needs to be increased by 2.6 percent over the prior year's levy. That is where the school district's involvement ends. An individual homeowner's total school property tax is NOT determined solely by the school district tax levy. The property tax change on a year-over-year basis is determined by a combination of factors which include: The change in the school tax levy, if any The change in your home's assessment, if any The change the total assessed value of all properties in the district, if any The change in the adjusted base proportion (tax apportionment among the four classes of property in the County) The school district – indeed, its voters – only has control over changes in the school tax levy. Although some homeowners will see a larger tax increase than others, the total tax increase received by LVCSD is still 2.6 percent, which is very slightly less than the state tax cap for the district for 2012-13. Any grievances regarding tax assessments need to be made to Nassau County. The school district has no control over a homeowner’s assessment, the total assessed value, or the adjusted base proportion. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7124 Sun, 07 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Sports Cancellations today, Tuesday, October 2nd: JV Boys soccer game Varsity boys soccer game Varsity Girls Tennis MS Field Hockey, moved to 10/16 MS Girls Tennis Intrascholastic Athletics http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7068 Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students at Ann MacArthur Primary School and Locust Valley Intermediate School have done their part to support world peace. In recognition of World Peace Day on September 21, students participated in the “Pinwheels for Peace” project, an International art initiative. From kindergarten to fifth grade, art classes created pinwheels and then planted them in front of the school on World Peace Day. Art teacher Dana Ettinger organized Locust Valley’s participation in the event and said it was a great opportunity to exhibit student art and to make a statement about peace in a non-political way. “Focusing on peace can mean so many things. For these students, we hope it means treating each other well –keeping peace amongst friends,” explained Ms. Ettinger. She added that in addition to reinforcing peaceful behavior, students used their art skills to create the pinwheels – and had fun doing it! Special thanks to the LVEPC for volunteering time to help plant the pinwheels outside of AMP and LVI. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7051 Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT The following games are cancelled today, Friday, September 28th, 2012 due to the rain: JV Boys Soccer, new date TBA Varsity Boys Soccer moved to 9/29, 10:00 at LVHS MS Girls Soccer moved to 10/1, 4:30 at North Shore MS JV Girls Soccer moved to 10/5, 4:15 AT LVHS Varsity Girls Soccer moved to 9/29, 10:30 AM at Cold Spring Harbor HS JV Girls Tennis moved to 10/3, 4:15 AT LVHS Varsity Girls Tennis moved to 10/2, 4:30 AT Farmingdale HS http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=7012 Fri, 28 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Extra Curricular activities are an important part of a student’s life. The activities not only expose youngsters to new and varied activities, but participation provides enrichment, enjoyment, friendship, and colleges and universities like to see these on the high school transcript. Additionally, participation in clubs enhances leadership skills and exposes them to a variety of service opportunities and competitions. Locust Valley High School has many activities to choose from, including athletics and after school clubs. From reading and cooking to community service and science activities, there is truly something for everyone. The clubs and activities fair held during lunch periods recently offered students the opportunity to learn more about each club, meet student representatives, and ask questions. Everyone was encouraged to attend and to join at least one club. Attached is a list of clubs and when they meet. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6990 Thu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT LVHS will hold a Club Fair on Tuesday, September 25th, periods 4-8 to highlight the numerous clubs and activities available to high school students. All high school students are encouraged to attend to find a club that meets their interests or to explore new interests! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6927 Mon, 24 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education will meet on October 10, 2012 at 8:00 p.m.in the Mini-Theater http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6923 Fri, 21 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Eleven LVCSD faculty members were recognized for receiving tenure by the Board of Education based on their outstanding performance and dedication to the students of Locust Valley. Teachers and administrators were among those recognized as their direct supervisors described the professional attributes that qualified them to receive tenure. The LVCSD Board of Education President Suzanne Sgueglia, and Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund expressed their gratitude and pride for the dedication these newly tenured professionals give to the community. “Your efforts have helped to place the school district among the best in the nation,” said Ms. Sgueglia. Dr. Hunderfund remarked that she is extremely proud to work with such a talented, professional group of people. Congratulations to the all of the following: Thomas Camilleri, Art Teacher, LVHS Bruce Campbell, English Teacher, LVHS Jennifer Masa, Special Education Teacher, LVHS Kieran McGuire, Principal, LVHS Courtney McKay, Science Teacher, LVHS Dorothy McManus, Assistant Principal, BP Katharine Murawski, Social Studies Teacher, LVHS Kenneth Packert, Coordinator K-12 Science, LVCSD Jenna Selzer, Speech Teacher, LVI & BI Evangeline Suarez, Mathematics Teacher, LVHS Suzette Vargas-Ioannou, ESL Teacher, LVI http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6924 Fri, 21 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Athletic Department is hosting a seminar on the the college athletic recruiting process on Tuesday, October 9th at 7 p.m. in the mini-theater. Click here for details. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6898 Wed, 19 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT As the entire nation commemorated the 11th anniversary of 9-11, students at each of the LVCSD schools marked the day in special ways as well. At the middle school and high school, special public service announcements were made that included a 9-11 reading, the singing of the Star Spangled banner by the LVHS Concert Chorale and the playing of “Taps.” At the elementary schools, students dressed patriotically - in red, white, and blue. Some students created their own American flags and others wrote about why they are proud to be American or what they are thankful for. The soldiers who work to protect the rights of Americans, their families, food, and peace were among the things students were thankful for. “It is very important for students to remember this event and how it forever left an imprint on the life of every single American,” said David Ethe, Coordinator of Social Studies. “It is also a time to honor the thousands of people who died that day.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6794 Tue, 11 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Dear Parents: Welcome to the new academic year at Locust Valley High School. It is my great hope and expectation that, together, we will enable your child to achieve ever greater success throughout this school year. Our annual “Open House” Program will take place on Thursday evening, September 13, 2012. We’ll begin the evening with a brief greeting in the High School Auditorium at 6:30 pm, which will allow you an opportunity to meet myself and our Assistant Principals, Bob Presland and Rebecca Gottesman. The evening will continue with you attending the shortened classes of your child’s Day “A” schedule. In addition to providing you with an opportunity to meet your child’s teachers, these shortened class meetings will impart important information about curricula, expectations, assessments and class requirements. Refreshments will be available in the cafeteria throughout the evening, beginning at 6:50 pm. The evening will conclude at 9:00 pm. Each year, “Open House” is a well-attended event, so you are encouraged to arrive early in order to avoid parking or traffic distractions. In addition to the regular program, members of SEPTA and the High School Parents’ Council will be with us to enlist your support and distribute information about their important efforts throughout the year. These organizations are important vehicles for your active participation in the life of the school and for real communication among parents, teachers and school administrators. Please also be aware of the following important events: Underclass photos will be taken in school on Wednesday 9/19. Retakes will be on 11/5. Senior Group Photo on the Hill will be taken on Friday 9/14. Senior yearbook portraits will be scheduled for Wednesday through Friday, 10/3, 10/4 & 10/5 with retakes on Thursday and Friday, 11/1 and 11/2. The Grade 12 Parent Night will be in our auditorium on Thursday, 9/20, beginning at 7 PM. The first meeting of the High School Parents’ Council (HSPC) will be on Wednesday, Sept. 12th in the Conference Room (Room #133) at 9:30 AM. I would also like to call your attention to our required annual emergency preparedness drill, which will take place this year on Friday, October 12th. Because of that drill, students will be dismissed on 10/12, ten minutes earlier than usual. The faculty and I look forward to meeting with you on the evening of Thursday, September 13th. With all best wishes, Kieran J. McGuire, Ed.D. Principal SEE OPEN HOUSE SCHEDULE BELOW: Student Schedule for Open House Parents: Please ask your child to complete this form so that you can bring this completed form with you to use as your schedule on Thursday evening, September 13th Student Name: ______________________________________________ please note: Students, please be sure to use your “A” Day schedule when completing the form below. Please fill in the name of each subject, the room number where each subject is taught and the teacher's name in the appropriate space. PERIOD SUBJECT ROOM TEACHER 6:30 – 6:45 PM Meet with Dr. McGuire in high school auditorium 1) 6:50-7:00 1) 2) 7:05-7:15 3) 7:20-7:30 4) 7:35-7:45 5) 7:50-8:00 6) 8:05-8:15 7) 8:20-8:30 8) 8:35-8:45 9) 8:50-9:00 Refreshments will be available throughout the evening in the high school cafeteria. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6778 Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click here to read the letter sent home to Juniors and their families regarding the PSAT Click here to read the letter sent home to Sophomores and their families regarding the PSAT Locust Valley High School will be offering free after-school review sessions for the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT) for sophomores and juniors. The PSAT/NMSQT will be given at Locust Valley High School on Saturday, October 20, 2012. Registration for this review course does not include registration for the PSAT itself. You will receive a separate letter for PSAT registration in the coming weeks. All sophomores and juniors are strongly encouraged to take the PSAT/NMSQT. This exam provides valuable practice for the SAT. More importantly, it will help your child to identify his or her strengths and the areas in which he or she may need to focus prior to the SAT. Additionally, students in grade 11 who perform well on the PSAT/NMSQT may earn “commended status”. The College Board shares the names of students who earn this distinction with colleges and universities. Students who perform exceptionally well on the PSAT/NMSQT qualify for the prestigious National Merit Scholarship. These scholarships are based solely on a student’s performance on the PSAT in their Junior year. The review sessions are open to all sophomores and juniors. As space may become limited, preference will be given to juniors; however, all materials and resources will be shared with interested students. The review sessions will run from Wednesday, September 19th until Thursday, October 18th from 3 – 4 pm or 6:45 – 7:30 am. Your child will be informed of his or her room assignment as we get closer to the start of the review. All sophomores and juniors are strongly encouraged to take advantage of these review sessions in order to maximize their potential for achievement on this important exam. If you are interested in taking advantage of this opportunity, please have your child sign up by bringing the attached form to the high school main office as soon as possible. You may also register your child by phone by calling 277-5100. Student Name: ________________________________________________________ Email: __________________________________ Cell Phone: __________________ Parent Name: _________________________________________________________ Email: __________________________________ Cell Phone: __________________ Preferred Session (Circle One): Morning Afternoon http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6437 Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Guidance Department will be hosting mini college fairs throughout the year. There will also be individual college visits. Students interested in attending should obtain a pass from the guidance office. Mini College Fairs: (click the links for lists of colleges) September 24 October 1 October 15 INDIVIDUAL COLLEGE VISITS: http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6612 Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT Board of Education Meeting, September 20th, 2012 at 8:00 p.m., MS/HS Mini-Theater http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6440 Wed, 05 Sep 2012 23:00:00 GMT The NYS Education Department has credited the Locust Valley Central School District with being the only K-12 district in Nassau County -- and one of fewer than 10 in the state -- to have every school honored as a Reward School, the state’s highest designation. The district’s schools earned this recognition due to the sustained growth in achievement levels on state assessments by all students, including those who are in the mainstream, those who are non-English-speaking, those with special needs, and those from diverse economic backgrounds. This honor comes on the heels of a great deal of recent recognition by national publications. In May, Locust Valley High School was ranked among the best in the country by Newsweek, the Washington Post, and U.S. News & World Report. Newsweek indicated that out of more than 20,000 high schools in our country, only 54 ranked higher than LVHS. The extraordinary ranking reflects the overwhelming number of those who successfully completed university-level courses while students in Locust Valley High School. It also factors in proficiency on certain state assessments, graduation rates, and college acceptances. According to Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund, “This state recognition is a credit to our students, faculty, Board of Education, and community. We are committed to leaving none of our students behind and to helping all of them grow and become well-prepared for college and the workforce. The latest state recognition and the recent national rankings acknowledge that our children are growing significantly in their achievement levels, and that as high school students, they are able to meet international standards of excellence. Our students' success is ‘what it is all about,’ and ultimately, it is the greatest honor of all!" http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6690 Fri, 31 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT It feels like a new school year, with students filling the hallways, auditorium, cafeteria, and athletic fields. Although school has not yet begun (the first day is September 4th), students have eagerly returned for orientations, practices, and more! The sixth and ninth graders attended orientations on Wednesday, August 29, learning important tips from administrators, guidance counselors, teachers, and upperclassmen. Sixth graders were paired with seventh graders and given tours of the middle school, taught how to work their new combination locks, and generally schooled in how to survive middle school. With individual schedules in hand, the seventh grade tour guides showed each student how to get to all of their classes, when to go to their lockers, and encouraged them to participate in extracurricular activities such as clubs. LVMS Assistant Principal Michael LoGerfo went over the rules of the middle school, including anti bullying policies. Ninth graders were also given tours of a side of the building they may not be as familiar with, although they are fairly comfortable since the middle school and high school share certain amenities such as the gymnasium and auditorium. This newest class in the high school also heard about academic success from Principal Kieran McGuire, class selection and scheduling from the guidance department, and so much more including athletics, note taking, and study skills. Upperclassmen also provided valuable insight into high school success. Welcome to the high school Class of 2016 and the graduating Class of 2019. And of course, welcome to the entire student body! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6672 Thu, 30 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT While students and their families were soaking up the last remaining bits of summer vacation, the LVCSD staff returned to school to do some learning of their own. Superintendent’s Conference Day offered faculty members an opportunity to attend workshops that would aid them in their daily teaching and ultimately benefit their students. Superintendent, Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund spoke to the faculty and welcomed them back for what promises to be a challenging and successful school year. Staff members met in their respective buildings with their principals to discuss specifics about the school year and prepare as a team for the first day of school. All teaching assistants and security personnel took part in Dignity for All Students ACT(DASA) training. DASA is a state law which aims to combat bias-based bullying, harassment, and discrimination in public schools, and includes awareness and sensitivity in the relations of people including individuals of different races, weights, national origins, ethnicity, religions or religious practices, mental or physical abilities, sexes, sexual orientations, gender identities or expressions. More information can be found regarding this on the district website at www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/parents/code_of_conduct. Staff and classrooms are ready for the arrival of students on Tuesday, September 5th and it promises to be a fantastic year! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6673 Wed, 29 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT Each year the district welcomes a few new staff members due to retirements, medical leaves, and a variety of other reasons. At the new hire orientation, these eager teachers were provided with much needed information about their new jobs and how things work in Locust Valley. Representatives from Human Resources and Superintendent Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund were among those that welcomed the group. We hope you will join us in giving a warm welcome to the following new faculty members: AnnMarie Buonaspina, MS/HS Music Teacher Elizabeth DeGennaro, MS/HS English/Reading Teacher Lizbeth Fichera, HS Guidance Counselor (Leave replacement through December) Marie Fonzo, Bayville Intermediate , Grade 3 Alison Gallagher, MS, Social Studies James Healy, MS Mathematics Part Time Robert Hendrick, HS Foreign Language (Italian) Sara Kuitwaard, MS Guidance (Leave replacement through February) Danielle Parente, Locust Valley Intermediate, ESL (Leave replacement through June) JZ Qu, HS Mathematics Cynthia Quinn, Locust Valley Intermediate, Grade 4 Cristina Ramirez-Sullivan, HS Foreign Language Stacey Singer, Locust Valley Intermediate, Grade 5 Caroline Sumcizk, Bayville Primary, Kindergarten (Leave Replacement through June) Anna Valentino-Terrado, HS Foreign Language (Spanish/Italian) http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6630 Thu, 23 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT It may be summer, but the high school athletic fields are looking a lot like it’s fall. Green and white jerseys are back on the fields as football practice has started. Coaches and athletes are working hard to get in shape for what is expected to be a great season. Freshmen are learning the ropes from the coaches and the veteran football players. Drills are being done over and over again as practice is the only way to get ahead. The rest of the athletic teams begin practice this month as well and once school starts, they will all be in full swing. Check out the athletic schedules on the website so you can attend games and cheer the Falcons on to victory! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6588 Tue, 14 Aug 2012 23:00:00 GMT Courtney Boyd, LVHS Class of 2012, has been featured as an outstanding new recruit at the University of Louisville. It is no surprise, as Courtney was a star athlete at LVHS and her future is bright. The story is reprinted below and can be viewed live at http://www.uoflsports.com/sports/w-lacros/spec-rel/070512aaa.html Introducing Women's Lacrosse's Courtney Boyd Courtney Boyd was a five-sport athlete at Locust Valley High. Follow @UofLSports on Twitter Courtney Boyd was a three-time high lacrosse all-conference selection. July 5, 2012 LOUISVILLE, Ky. - Each week, UofLsports.com will unveil one member from the University of Louisville women's lacrosse's 2012-13 recruiting class. This week, New York native Courtney Boyd is in the spotlight. "Courtney is a determined and aggressive defender with a great balance of speed and agility," head coach Kellie Young said. "I was very impressed in the recruiting process with how thoughtful Courtney was in her decision process. I know she has chosen Louisville for all the right reasons and I can't wait until she arrives on campus." Hailing from Bayville, N.Y., Boyd was a four-year letterwinner on the Locust Valley High lacrosse team. Each season from 2009-11, she earned all-conference honors, and in 2012, Boyd was named all-county honorable mention while being named her team's most valuable player. An academic All-American, Boyd also was tabbed a Nassau County Scholar-Athlete and a 2011 Wendy's Heisman High School winner for her achievements in the classroom, on the field and in the community. Outside of high school lacrosse, Boyd competed with the Long Island Metro National Tournament Girl's Team in 2009 and 2011. Additionally, Boyd lettered in basketball, tennis, soccer and winter track. She helped her varsity basketball team capture the county title in the 2009-10 season. Boyd was quite involved academically as well. In addition to serving as vice president for the class of 2012, she was a member of the National Spanish Honor Society. Her achievements in the classroom earned her academic All-America honors. One of two children, her brother, Eamonn, currently plays for the Nassau Community College baseball team. Continue to visit UofLsports.com, as next week we will unveil another member from the Cardinals' incoming class. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6589 Tue, 14 Aug 2012 12:00:00 GMT Board of Education Meeting, September 5th, 2012 at 8:00 p.m., MS/HS Mini-Theater http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6439 Wed, 08 Aug 2012 23:00:00 GMT People are often surprised to find out how busy it is throughout the school district during the summer. From teaching Regents review courses to finalizing the entire master schedule for the new school year, summer is always bustling. Summer is also the perfect time for necessary capital improvement projects. Careful consideration is taken before any of these projects are approved, and all are done with the safety and well-being of our students, staff and community in mind. One of these projects is the replacement of the boilers at Bayville Intermediate School. The boilers, which were 48 years old, were not only becoming costly to maintain, but were also no longer as efficient as newer boilers could be. By replacing the corroding boilers, Bayville Intermediate will now have efficient, natural gas boilers that will be safe, efficient and cost-effective. At the high school, the retaining walls were deteriorating badly. The existing concrete walls have been repaired on numerous occasions, but weathering and water intrusion with freeze/thaw cycles have deteriorated the walls beyond further repair efforts.By replacing the retaining walls, further expense for repair and liability is reduced. This project will be completed during the summer of 2013. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6549 Mon, 06 Aug 2012 14:00:00 GMT Summer Regents Review 2012 July 30 – August 2 August 6 - 9 August 13 - 15 Period 1 8:00 – 9:30 Period 2 9:45 – 11:15 Period 3 11:30 – 1:00 Integrated Algebra Room 148 Regents Exam: Thursday August 16, 8:00am Integrated Algebra Room 148 Regents Exam: Thursday August 16, 8:00am Integrated Algebra Room 148 Regents Exam: Thursday August 16, 8:00am Global Studies Room 166 Regents: Thursday August 16, 12:00pm Earth Science Room 168 Regents: Friday August 17, 12:00pm Geometry Room 167 Regents Exam: Thursday August 16, 8:00am Geometry Room 167 Regents Exam: Thursday August 16, 8:00am United States History Room 169 Regents Exam: Friday August 17, 8:00am English Room 169 Regents Exam: Thursday August 16, 8:00am Living Environment Room 168 and Room 177 Regents: Friday August 17, 12:00pm Living Environment Room 177 Regents: Friday August 17, 12:00pm http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6452 Mon, 30 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT We are deeply saddened by the death of one of our bus drivers, Mr. Jorge Guevara. The school bus which Mr. Guevara was driving was involved in a tragic accident which led to his death. Mr. Guevara, 45, was a Locust Valley bus driver for the past six years. The bus was also carrying one bus monitor and four LVCSD elementary school children. The students and the monitor sustained injuries which are reported to be non life-threatening. The bus was bringing the students home from an educational summer program in Syosset. District mental health professionals are available to offer grief counseling and support to students, parents and staff. Our thoughts are with all of those who were involved in this tragic accident. We send our sincere sympathy to Mr. Guevara’s family and friends during this difficult time. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6504 Tue, 24 Jul 2012 15:00:00 GMT Incoming ninth grade orientation will be held on Wednesday, August 29th from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Orientation will cover the following topics: • skill development in light of the increased demands of high school work • students’ academic options • the importance of 9th grade to future success in AP and IB courses, and for college readiness • extra-curricular activities, clubs, and sports • academic honesty, with attention to specific behaviors in respect of codes of academic ethics • expectations regarding student conduct and protocols regarding social networking websites Please read the letter that was sent home to families regarding orientation by clicking here. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6474 Mon, 16 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT Board of Education Meeting, August 8th, 2012 at 8:00 p.m., ADM http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6438 Wed, 11 Jul 2012 23:00:00 GMT Summer reading and math assignments from each of the schools are listed below. Summer Reading List Letter to Parents Summer Reading Lists: English 12IB Summer Reading Task IB HL II Summer Reading Sound Waves Incoming English 12 IB (How to Approach an Extract) Incoming Grade 11 IB HL I Pride and Prejudice Pride and Prejudice Graphic Organizer Incoming Grade 10 Incoming Grade 9 Incoming Grade 8 Incoming Grade 7 Incoming Grade 6 LVMS Library List Great Reads Summer Reading K-5 Summer Math Assignments: Math Games and Apps Math for Incoming 6th Graders Math for Incoming 7th Graders Math for Incoming 8th Graders Geometry (Exiting Algebra 1) Algebra 2 (Exiting Geometry) Incoming Math SL2 Incoming Math HL2 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6361 Tue, 26 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT June is a time of transition for many students. Fifth graders at Bayville Intermediate and Locust Valley Intermediate Schools are moving up to the middle school, while eighth graders at Locust Valley Middle School are preparing to start high school in the fall. It is only appropriate to mark these momentous occasions with ceremonies that celebrate these students’ accomplishments. Intermediate moving up ceremonies included songs and photo slideshows of the children throughout the year, highlighting their growth both physically and academically. At the middle school, student government representatives reflected on the past three years and how much of an impact various activities have had on them. Eighth Grade President Quinlan Ferrante recalled not only fun field trips, but important academic projects that helped the students learn lessons while making new friendships. The principals at each school spoke to graduates about what the future holds for them, how proud they have made the faculty and their parents, and reminded them to try new things, work hard, and enjoy the rewards that will follow. Locust Valley Middle School Principal H. Thomas Hogan told the students that they are all individuals and that it is their individual qualities that will make people remember them. Each fifth grader was honored with an award highlighting their individual talents. Middle School students received academic awards at a special ceremony held earlier in June. Congratulations to all of the fifth and eighth graders on their accomplishments, and good luck at the middle school and high school in the fall. We can’t wait to see you all there! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6313 Fri, 22 Jun 2012 11:00:00 GMT Five members of the varsity girls lacrosse team have been selected for the U.S. Lacrosse High School Academic All-American Team. Congratulations to seniors Courtney Boyd, Amanda Cirignano, and Amanda Kronenberger; and juniors Taylor Bleistein and Bairre Reilly for their hard work on the lacrosse field and for their academic achievements. Congratulations to varsity girls lacrosse coach Kristen Hordy! Missing from photo: Amanda Kronenberger http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6267 Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Joining fun and physical fitness together, field day is a favorite of students and staff alike. This year was no different, with sunny skies and cool breezes gracing the fields of the elementary schools. Parents and siblings gathered around to watch these Olympic style athletes perform at the top of their games! With the summer Olympic games around the corner, the schools have been using an Olympic theme for field day games. From opening ceremonies including a parade of countries to the carrying of the torch, students have been having fun while using skills they learned throughout the year. Physical education teachers organized the field days in each school, preparing children for weeks to participate in a safe event. “While it seems like it’s just a day of fun, the events are thoughtfully planned,” said Mark J. Dantuono, Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics. “In addition to physical activities, other important skills have been incorporated into the games to reinforce the physical education curriculum.” Mr. Dantuono explained that life skills such as teamwork are also emphasized. Learning to work together is an important concept, especially for the fifth graders about to transition into the middle school. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6268 Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT Bayville Intermediate School Moving Up: Monday, June 18th at 6 p.m., Auditorium Locust Valley Middle School Moving Up: Tuesday, June 19th at 6 p.m., Auditorium Locust Valley Intermediate School Moving Up: Wednesday, June 20th at 6 p.m., Auditorium Locust Valley High School Graduation: Saturday, June 23rd at 4:00 p.m. on the Fred Smith Athletic Field (in case of rain, the graduation will be held in the auditorium) http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6231 Mon, 18 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT In celebration of Bayville Primary School’s 50th Birthday, students and staff buried a time capsule containing items that represent the school as it is today. From their favorite books and games, to a shoe representing popular fashions, the capsule contains a moment in time from June 7, 2012. “We hope that on June 7, 2037, when Bayville Primary celebrates 75 years, the students will open the time capsule and discover what children their age liked twenty five years earlier,” said Bayville Primary School Assistant Principal Dorothy McManus. Besides celebrating this milestone, students learned important lessons as each class decided what item would best represent them in the time capsule and why it was important. Two students from each class read a description of what they chose and explained the significance. Classes chose items such as a book of knock-knock jokes, because “kids our age love these kinds of jokes” and a portable video game, because they take it in the car, to the beach, and everywhere else. A special flag was created for the event, designed by the students. The birthday party was supposed to include digging up the time capsule buried 25 years ago, however that capsule couldn’t be found. A map left by those who it buried it, did not have measurements or clear enough directions. Ms. McManus said that many people who were at BP 25 years ago told her where it was buried, but none of those places proved to be correct. Photos, maps, and lists of those in attendance at this event are being kept for the future, so this time capsule can be an important part of Bayville Primary School’s 75th birthday celebration. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6117 Mon, 11 Jun 2012 15:00:00 GMT Board of Education Meeting, July 11, 8:00 p.m., ADM http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6143 Mon, 11 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT A spectacular showing of student art work brought friends and family to the MS/HS Mini-Theater for the Annual District Art Show. With displays lining the hallways, the stage in the mini-theater, and even the windows and windowsills, the corridor could have been mistaken for a professional art gallery. Each of the middle school and high school art teachers had their students choose their best work for the show. A variety of mediums were included from pencil drawing and paintings to ceramics and photography. Although the show was only one day, you can view the outstanding work of our talented artists in the slideshow below. Sit back and enjoy … it’s a great show! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6114 Fri, 08 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Symphonic Band was awarded the “Gold with Distinction” medal at NYSSMA Major Organization Festival. This is the highest honor a performing group can achieve at the festival. These musicians performed under the direction of Mr. Vincent Guerra, assisted by Miss Lisa Conti. It takes many months of intense preparation and practice to perform at such a professional level. Bravo to the following extraordinary young musicians on their accomplishment and their hard work, and to their dedicated teachers! Marcella Applewhaite Catherine Boutros Leo Capobianco Austin Carbone Cameron Carrella Patrick Carroll Daniel Casalino Nicholas Casella Amanda Caso Gregory Caso Hannah Chiu Bradley Conn Ian Conn Daniel Criblez Thomas Criblez Jocelyn Cruz Natalie DePerez Andrew Edwins Louis Falciano Nicole Fay Elyssa Farr Luke Gatti Christina Guerra Mary Kate Guma Paige Gugerty Stela Ieraci William Jensen William Jones Mary Leibold Claire Lynch Courtney Miller Michael John Mimmo Shannon Monaco Riley Monck-Rowley Jackson Panetta Julia Parenti Brian Reidy Karin Roslund Joseph Ryan Kimberly Sabio Ernest Schieferstein Kate Schramm Lauren Sidor Charles Stacy Preston Tansill Christopher Tasso Louis Tiglias Donald Valicenti Alexander VanPatten Matthew Vezza Erik Villalobos Lydia Volpe Brendan Wright Daniel Wright http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5886 Tue, 05 Jun 2012 14:00:00 GMT A group of Locust Valley High School students has the ability to make a room full of people laugh, cry, and gasp in shock – all in one night. During the Sixth Annual Writers/ Directors’ Spring Showcase, students performed dramatic and comedic dialogues from original scripts for a packed house. Working with faculty advisors/directors, Lawrence Lynch and Adele Bolitho, thirteen skits were performed in front of a live audience. The event, which takes place twice each year, gives students an opportunity to express their emotions, creativity, and inner most thoughts. “The showcase gives students a chance to explore their writing, directing, and acting skills all in one place,” said Mr. Lynch. “They learn how to rework their scripts to improve their performance and they are very supportive of each other.” The group, which meets after school, is open to all students and has been growing in the six years since it began. This year’s performance, with 13 scripts, was the largest show yet. “The students learn so much and really enjoy it,” said Ms. Bolitho. “They bond with each other, making new friends and trying new things." Congratulations to the following writers, directors, and performers: Pete Barell, Rhonda Drewes, Laura Doukas, Anne Hollmuller, Shivangi Kakar, Richard Kihm, Christian Manzi, Zinia Morici, Jamie Murcott, Samantha Prosser, Ernest Schieferstein, Annarose Settepani , Jessica Turner, Cassandra Vnook, Victor Cafaro, John Ciarletta, Dylan Gelbard, Mitch Guadagni , Stela Ieraci, and Sean Rudowsky. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=6006 Fri, 01 Jun 2012 14:00:00 GMT Free sports physicals will be conducted on Wednesday June 6, at 2:45 p.m. in the HS/MS Health Office. The school district physicians along with our team of nurses, will be conducting the physicals for students currently in grades 6-11. These sport physicals will be valid for 12 months. No appointment is necessary. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Athletic Office at 277-5175. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5967 Wed, 30 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT 6th Annual Writers/Directors’ Spring Showcase Thursday May, 31st, at 7:00 p.m., HS Mini-Theater ALLORIGINAL DRAMATIC AND COMEDIC SCRIPTS written and performed by LVHS students Featuring Scripts and Performances by: Pete Barell Rhonda Drewes Laura Doukas Anne Hollmuller Shivangi Kakar Richard Kihm Christian Manzi Zenia Morici Jamie Murcott Samantha Prosser Ernest Schieferstein Annarose Settepani Jessica Turner Cassandra Vnook Also Starring: Victor Cafaro John CiarlettaDylan Gelbard Mitch Guadagni Stela IeraciSean Rudowski FREE GENERAL ADMISSION Directed and Produced by Mrs. Bolitho and Mr. Lynch http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5969 Wed, 30 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Dressed in red, white, and blue with American flags in hand,elementary school children in Locust Valley honored our country’s Veterans for Memorial Day. Singing patriotic songs, placing flowers at the flagpoles, and playing taps on the trumpet, students reflected on the meaning of this American holiday. In Bayville, United States Marine Corp. Staff Sargent Eddy Trochet, was honored at the Bayville Primary and Bayville Intermediate School ceremonies. Having just returned from Afghanistan, his children Ryan and Savannah who attend Bayville Primary and Bayville Intermediate schools,presented him with an American flag to thank him for his service to the country, and to welcome him home. At Ann MacArthur Primary School and Locust Valley Intermediate School, students sang songs, read poems, and lowered the flag to half-mast in memory of veterans lost in battle. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5960 Tue, 29 May 2012 16:00:00 GMT Regents exams will take place from June 11 - June 21st. Please click on the links below to see the full schedule of exams and the transportation schedule during exams. Regents Schedule Bus Schedule During Exams http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5938 Tue, 29 May 2012 12:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Middle School mathematicians won the gold medal in the MATHCOUNTS competition at Hofstra University. Students competed against their peers from other Long Island school districts and 20 LVMS students earned the highest level of achievement possible for the second year in a row. Through the MATHCOUNTS program, students who excel in math are given the opportunity to explore advanced mathematical concepts beyond their normal grade level. MATHCOUNTS is a national program that inspires excellence, confidence and curiosity in middle school students, providing them with the foundation for success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics careers. LVMS will be entered into a drawing for $500 in gift cards and the grand prize of a trip to Orlando, FL to witness the Raytheon MATHCOUNTS National Competition - 2012. Congratulations to the following gold medalists and to all the participants: Paige Bonavito, Arielle Cala Castalano, Joseph Madsen, Michael Madsen, Jeremy Penny, Patrick Vaughan, Parker Chafetz, Nicholas Chisari, Robert Flory, Erin Gresalfi, Patrick Halpin, Francis Harrington, Caroline Hoyt, Christine Lee, Michael Maneri, Brendan McLoughlin, Roisin O’Neill, Tyler Rovere, Luke Jackson San Antonio-Bialecki, and Brandon Schraeter. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5186 Fri, 25 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Three LVHS scientist received High Honors Awards at the 62nd Annual Long Island Science Congress Awards.The team of Jaime Jaget, Hope Craig, and Emma Gugerty received the award for their work in Science Research. To qualify for this honor, their presentation needed to receive a score of at least 95 percent and their actual scores are not divulged.This award puts the Locust Valley students in the top five percent of all projects entered in Science Congress across Long Island, and earned Locust Valley High School an Outstanding Participation Award for the fourth year in a row. The girls’ presentation was one of more than 600 entries by823 students from 73 high schools across Long Island. This award is given to schools which have student research projects which are deemed the “Best of the Best” in Nassau and Suffolk counties.Jaime, Hope and Emma carried out their research at Stony Brook Universities’ School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences under the direction of Professor Demian Chapman and Shannon O’Leary. Their research, which was titled“Bimini Bay Resort: Should We Stay or Should We Go- Assessing Lemon Shark Dietary Habits as a Result of Anthropogenic Habitat Changes,” examined the stomach contents of 50 Lemon Sharks from Bimini, (in the Bahamas) using DNA techniques. By identifying the diet of the Lemon Sharks, they were able to track movement in the mangroves resulting from the construction of a large vacation resort. Congratulations to our fine young scientists! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5896 Thu, 24 May 2012 13:00:00 GMT The Summer Recreation 2012 brochure and application are now available by clicking here. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5882 Wed, 23 May 2012 14:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Middle School eighth graders, Carmine, Francesco,and Marconi D’Auria-Gupta, will be performing a Beethoven String Trio at Lincoln Center on Thursday, May 24th at11:00 a.m. The concert will be filmed, and livestreamed, and can be viewed during the event at http://www.chambermusicsociety.org/watchlisten/livestream. Congratulations and good luck to the D'Auria-Gupta boys! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5880 Wed, 23 May 2012 13:00:00 GMT The entire Locust Valley community joined together to raise more than $25,000 for cancer research through the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life event.With 29 teams spending the night on the Locust Valley High School football field,the event brought awareness of this deadly disease along with bonding through fun activities such as Zumba and a performance by students from Maryann's Dance Studio. LVHS students Paige Gugerty,Gabrielle Dell'Aquilo, Micailah Donner, Stephanie Mysholowsky, Emma Gugerty, and Stephanie Bousleiman were the chair people for Relay for Life and have been working the entire school year to coordinate the event. Many of the girls are members of the high school’s Cancer Awareness Club and worked under the guidance of advisor Scott St. Denis. Cancer survivors and caregivers were honored during the event and some shared stories about their experiences and how grateful they were for donations that helped fund important research that saved their lives. Board of Education Trustee George M. Stimola addressed the crowd as a caregiver – he recently lost his grandmother to cancer. Mr. Stimola said he has been attending Relay for Life for many years and that he is proud of the Locust Valley community for their outstanding support year after year. The track was lined with luminaries - candles that memorialized or honored loved ones. Through the purchase of these luminaries, team sponsorship, and the sales of merchandise such as shirts, Locust Valley High School’s donation will make a difference in the fight against this deadly disease. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5877 Wed, 23 May 2012 11:00:00 GMT Four Locust Valley High School Juniors have qualified to compete at the U.S. Rowing Youth National Championship. Finishing in second place at the New York State Scholastic Championships were Gabrielle Dell’Aquilo and Micailah Donner as part of a Varsity Womens 4+ boat, with Francesca Maida as coxswain. A Varsity Womens Double rowed by Emma Gugerty and Gabrielle Dell’Aquilo placed second in the same competition. The girls compete through Sagamore Rowing Club, a composite club featuring rowers from several area high schools. First- and second-place boats at the state regatta automatically received bids to the national championship, where teams from every region of the U.S. will compete. Congratulations and good luck at the championships in Oak Ridge, Tenn. June 8th – 10th! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5856 Tue, 22 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley AIDS Awareness Club, with co-advisors Alyssa Wescott and Courtney McKay, participated in the Annual AIDS Walk in NYC’s Central Park. Through school fundraisers such as bake sales and candy grams, as well as individual members raising money, the club was able to present $1,110 to the Gay Men’s Health Crisis. Olivia Simas was the top fundraiser of the club. The walk was a 10K (6.2 miles) through Central Park and several streets along Riverside Drive which were closed down to traffic. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5864 Tue, 22 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High school, in conjunction with Operation Democracy, will be holding its second annual Painting for Peace Gallery Show. The Opening reception will be held from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Thursday May 24th at the gallery directly above the Basil Leaf Café in the Plaza shopping center. Please join us for this very special event. In addition, the gallery will be open for viewing on Friday the 25th from noon to five and on Saturday the 26th from eleven to five. Additionally, during the Locust Valley Strawberry festival, this Memorial Day weekend, 25 stores will be displaying student art work for the annual Student Art Walk. President of Operation Democracy, Kay Weninger said supporting the students is important. “The art walk was created not only as a way to showcase students’ talents but to also give the community a special event to come and walk around the village.” Take some time this weekend to view the artwork of our extremely talented high school artists! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5866 Tue, 22 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Two Locust Valley students used their musical talents for a good cause. Sixth grader Elisabeth Baumann and high school sophomore Anne Holmuller participated in a “Practice-a-Thon” to benefit the Harry Chapin Food Bank. The students received pledges from friends and family based on the number of minutes they practiced. The girls raised nearly $200 for the food bank, practicing for 500 minutes. With the support of the entire music department, the girls not only worked hard to help people less fortunate, but also gained personally from the positive experience. Congratulations! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5821 Fri, 18 May 2012 17:00:00 GMT The District Art Show, featuring student artwork, will be held on Wednesday, June 6th from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m in the HS/MS mini-theater. Artwork will be on display in the mini-theater for the entire week, from June 4th-June 8th. The art show is open to the public and all are encouraged to attend! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5804 Fri, 18 May 2012 14:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School Wrestling Coach, Joseph Enea, has been named Nassau County Rookie Coach of the Year. The award was given to Mr. Enea by the Nassau County Wrestling Coaches Association. based on his excellent coaching abilities during the 2011-2012 wrestling season. Mr. Enea was chosen as Coach of the Year from among all of the Nassau County wrestling coaches who have been head coaches for four years or less. “Joe Enea is a true asset to the Locust Valley wrestling program and very deserving of this honor,” said, Mark J. Dantuono, Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics. “He makes the team the best they can be and in turn they respect him and work hard for him and for themselves.” Congratulations to Mr. Enea! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5813 Fri, 18 May 2012 14:00:00 GMT Board of Education Meeting, June 6th, 8:00 p.m., MS/HS Auditorium http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5748 Tue, 15 May 2012 23:00:00 GMT More than thirty middle school and high school students participating in the National Foreign Language Exams, earned high scores which qualified them for recognition. Eighth grader Arthur Babcock won a cash award for placing third in the Italian contest. He is the first Locust Valley student to earn this award. A record number of students participated in the national foreign language exams in French, Italian and Spanish. Given across the country, these exams recognize achievement in the study of the language and promote proficiency as well. Students voluntarily participate annually in order to further enhance their learning of French, Italian and Spanish. Félicitations! Congratulazioni! ¡Felicidades! Congratulations to their teachers as well: Ms. Adames, Ms. Aiello, Ms. Angelo, Ms. Bressel, Ms. Portente, Ms. Rose, Mr. St. Denis, and Ms. Watson. The following students earned recognition: French Ms. Portente Tazim Merchant – 10th Place Level 2 Chantal Jachan – 4th Place Level 3 Stephanie Bousleiman – 9th Place Level 4 Italian Ms. Aiello Sarah Bernal – 9th Place Level 1 Jack Shearer – 9th Place Level 1 Jack Ferrante – 13th Place Level 1 Ms. Angelo Arthur Babcock – 3rd Place Level 1 Spanish Ms. Adames Jonathan Calo – Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Michael Catalano – Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Connie Chen – Plata (Silver) Timothy Fay – Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Jack Ferrante – Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Michaela Lynch – Bronce (Bronze) Sarah Mascolo – Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Michael Shearer – Plata (Silver) Sara Orellana – Plata (Silver) Ms. Portente Jessica Cameron – Bronce (Bronze) Campbell DeNatale – Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Jeremy Siliato – Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Ms. Bressel Joe Carney – Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Christine Carroll – Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Anna Jensen – Bronce (Bronze) Patrick Vaughan – Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Tricia Willet – Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Aynsley Leonardis – Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Ms. Rose Paige Gugerty – Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Mara Hammerschmidt – Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Taylor Herlich – Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Hunter Locks – Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Sarah Miller – Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Alexandria Orlassino –Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Kenneth Wood - Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Mr. St. Denis Claudio Yanez – Plata (Silver) Camilo Fredes – Bronce (Bronze) Teddy Kahn - Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Emily Valentine - Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Nicole Scotto - Mención Honorífica (Honorable Mention) Ms. Watson Kassandra Vargas - 3rd Place http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5666 Fri, 11 May 2012 15:00:00 GMT After being nominated by health and physical education teacher Laura Vera, LVHS seniors Brianna, Francesca, Marissa, Austin, and Brandon Carbone were chosen for Newsday's Project Prom. Treated like celebrities, the quintuplets spent a day trying on glamorous gowns and tuxedos that they will be able to wear to the LVHS prom. The public gets to vote on which dresses the girls will wear. Ms. Vera said she nominated the quintuplets because they are all wonderful kids. Read the full story in Newsday by clicking here ... and don't forget to vote for your favorite dress! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5659 Thu, 10 May 2012 10:00:00 GMT Reminder: The LVMS 7/8 Spring Concert is Wednesday, May 9th at 7 p.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5578 Tue, 08 May 2012 07:00:00 GMT MS Softball and Baseball games are cancelled today, May 3rd due to inclement weather. Games will be rescheduled at a later date. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5517 Thu, 03 May 2012 12:00:00 GMT AP & IB testing runs from now through May 23rd. The complete schedule can be found by clicking here. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5518 Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT May 15, 2012 - Annual Budget Vote 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. BOE Mtg., 9:45 p.m., AMP http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5219 Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT MS Boys Tennis Rained Out Today, May 2nd. Match rescheduled for May 18th. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5500 Wed, 02 May 2012 13:00:00 GMT Middle School Intramurals are cancelled on Tuesday May 1st due to inclement weather. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5467 Tue, 01 May 2012 11:00:00 GMT Five Locust Valley High School students were honored by the Board of Education for winning “Best in Show” at the digital media arts annual show held at Five Towns College. Marisa Chafetz, Ariana Falzarano, Christopher Minafo, Madison Davidson, and Ryan Conlon each received this award. Ariana and Ryan were multiple winners of best in show. The students, who are all in Mr. Camilleri’s digital arts course, entered graphic design work, digital paintings, and digital photographs in the competition/critique. The work of these LVHS artists surpassed entries from more than 200 students and 30 schools across Long Island. Entries were critiqued and judged by various local artists, educators, and professionals. Congratulations to the students on this achievement and to their teacher Mr. Camilleri. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5483 Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT Senior Niklas Helmick broke the LVHS record in the 400m with a time of 52.0. The record was previously held by Don Munson since 1982 at a time of 52.2. Niklas has been a dominant runner all season and is the team leader in points. He also won the 200m and anchored the winning 4x400m team with Kevin Jania, Brandon Maraboli, and Alex Van Patten. Helmick and his teammates are hoping to build off of the regular season success as the post season begins. Congratulations to entire track team for their strong performances and to Coach Joe Lee and Coach Tim Lomot. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5484 Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT The boys varsity lacrosse game on Saturday, April 28th at Centre Island is now being played at 11:00 a.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5419 Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:00:00 GMT Date Added: Friday, April 27, 2012 Members of the Class of 2012 will be missed when they leave LVHS, but it is obvious from the list below that many schools can't wait to have them! This is a list of college acceptances as of April 27, 2012. The list will be updated regularly. Adelphi University Albright College Alfred University American Academy of Art Amherst College Arcadia University Arizona State University The Art Institute of Boston at Lesley University Auburn University Barnard College Baruch College of the CUNY Bentley University Boston College Boston University University of Bridgeport Brooklyn College of the CUNY Bryant University Bucknell University Buffalo State College of SUNY Campbell University Carnegie Mellon University Case Western Reserve University The Catholic University of America Cazenovia College Centenary College Champlain College College of Charleston The Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina City University of New York Clarkson University Clemson University Colgate University University of Colorado at Boulder Colorado State University Columbia College Columbia University Connecticut College University of Connecticut Cornell University Curry College Dartmouth College University of Delaware DePaul University Dowling College Drew University Drexel University Duke University East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania Elizabethtown College Elmira College Elon University Emmanuel College Emory University Fairfield University Fashion Institute of Technology Florida Atlantic University Florida Gulf Coast University University of Florida Fordham University Franklin and Marshall College George Mason University Georgia Institute of Technology Gettysburg College Hamilton College - NY University of Hartford Hartwick College Haverford College High Point University Hobart and William Smith Colleges Hofstra University Hudson Valley Community College Hunter College of the CUNY University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Indiana University at Bloomington Iona College Iowa State University Ithaca College James Madison University John Jay College of Criminal Justice of the CUNY Johns Hopkins University Johnson & Wales University Keene State College University of Kentucky Lafayette College Lawrence Technological University Lehigh University Lesley University Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus Long Island University, C.W. Post Campus Louisiana State University Loyola University Maryland Macaulay Honors College at CUNY Manhattan College Manhattanville College Marist College University of Maryland, College Park University of Massachusetts, Amherst University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth University of Massachusetts, Lowell University of Miami Michigan State University University of Michigan University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Mississippi State University University of Mississippi Mitchell College Mohawk Valley Community College Molloy College Mount Saint Mary's University College of Mount Saint Vincent Nassau Community College New England College University of New Hampshire University of New Haven The College of New Jersey New York Institute of Technology - Old Westbury New York University The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of North Carolina at Charlotte University of North Carolina at Wilmington Northeastern University Norwich University The Ohio State University Pace University - Westchester Pace University, New York City Pennsylvania State University, Altoona Pennsylvania State University, Brandywine Pennsylvania State University, University Park University of Pittsburgh Polytechnic Institute of NYU Post University Princeton University Providence College Purchase College Queens College of the CUNY Quinnipiac University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute University of Rhode Island Rice University University of Richmond Rider University Rochester Institute of Technology University of Rochester Rowan University Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey at New Brunswick Sacred Heart University Saint Joseph's University Saint Leo University The College of Saint Rose Salisbury University Salve Regina University School of Visual Arts The University of Scranton Seton Hall University Siena College Skidmore College University of South Carolina University of South Florida, Tampa University of Southern California St. John's University - Queens Campus St. Lawrence University St. Thomas Aquinas College Stanford University State University of New York - Plattsburgh State University of New York at Albany State University of New York at New Paltz Stevenson University Stony Brook University SUNY Alfred State College Binghamton University SUNY College at Brockport SUNY College at Cobleskill SUNY College at Cortland SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry SUNY College at Geneseo SUNY Morrisville State College SUNY College at Old Westbury SUNY College at Oneonta SUNY College at Potsdam SUNY Delhi SUNY at Farmingdale SUNY Fredonia SUNY Institute of Technology at Utica/Rome SUNY Oswego Syracuse University The University of Tampa The Hartt School, University of Hartford The New Community College (CUNY) Tompkins Cortland Community College Towson University Tufts University Tulane University Union College University at Buffalo The State University of New York University of Vermont Villanova University Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University University of Virginia Wagner College Wake Forest University Washington College Wentworth Institute of Technology Wesleyan University West Virginia University Western New England University Widener University University of Wisconsin, Madison York College of Pennsylvania http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4131 Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:00:00 GMT Washington D.C. became a giant classroom for approximately 140 eighth grade students as they experienced first-hand the very things they have been learning about in their Social Studies classes. Coordinated by the Middle School Parents’ Council, the three-day trip brought the students, along with faculty and parent chaperones to many of our nation’s historical sites including Fort McHenry, the White House, Washington Monument, Capitol Building, World War II Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, United States Holocaust Museum, and all of the major museums in Washington D.C., among other important sites. Social Studies curriculum leader David Ethe said the trip enabled students to receive a better understanding of the lessons they are being taught. “When they can visualize something that they have been studying, it provides them with a different and meaningful perspective about United States history that they will never forget,” he said. Special thanks to the parents for working so hard to make this trip a reality for the students, and to the administrators and teachers who enhanced the experience. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5405 Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Through an educational exchange program, 28 LVHS students and three staff members spent Spring Recess in Denmark. The ten day trip was the second part of the exchange program, which began with Danish students and staff visiting LVHS in October. In both cases, visitors stayed with local host families and attended school with their host students. In addition to the cultural exchange gained by sharing family life with their Danish counterparts, the students toured extensively in Copenhagen, visited the 13th century cathedral and the home of Hans Christian Andersen in Odense, and the art museum in Aarhus, a city renowned for art since medieval times. Students’ academic activities included projects on social mobility and comparisons of governmental roles in society. The exchange was organized and chaperoned by IB Coordinator Robert Buonaspina, Mrs. Kathleen Tisch, and LVHS Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire. Additionally, several parents joined the group and served as chaperones. “There is no better way to learn about a country, a culture, or people than by becoming immersed in their society,” said Dr. McGuire. “The education our students gained in those ten days could never be learned in a classroom.” In addition to the architecture, culture, and history that were part of the experience, students made friendships that will last a long time. Dr. McGuire said that having friends in other parts of the world can enhance one’s life in many ways, broadening one’s perspectives and appreciation of how other societies solve problems that are common to the human experience. Attending school with their Danish counterparts offered the Locust Valley students an opportunity for comparison of the governments, social issues, entertainment, sports, and more. The exchange was a success on all levels, and plans to continue the program are underway. Photo Caption: Locust Valley High School Students and their Danish counterparts pose in from of Hans Christian Anderson’s childhood home in Odense, Denmark. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5374 Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT May 2, 2012 - Board of Education, Public Budget Hearing, 7:30 p.m., Mini-Theater http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5218 Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT The District Art Show originally scheduled for April 24th, has been postponed. A new date has not yet been scheduled and will be announced as soon as possible. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5250 Fri, 13 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT April 17, 2012 - Board of Education Budget Presentation, 7:30 p.m., BI; Regular Mtg. 8 p.m., BI http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5206 Sun, 08 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT Understanding The 2% Tax Levy Cap As has been widely publicized, New York State has instituted a tax levy cap on municipal entities, including school districts, effective for the 2012-2013 school year. As this is the first year of the new legislation, clarification is required on the actual mechanics of the cap and what it means to the individual school district. The reality of the “2% cap” is that it is a misnomer. There is no 2% property tax levy cap. The ‘2% cap’ commonly referred to in media reports is actually a 2% growth factor that is part of a complex formula used to determine (on a district-by-district basis) the maximum allowable tax levy increase. Based on this state formula, the following are some local tax caps: Syosset 2.26% Oyster Bay 2.55% Locust Valley 2.68% North Shore 3.49% Glen Cove 3.65% Garden City 4.29% Although the tax cap for many districts remains near the 2% that has been publicized, the actual number can be higher or lower (as shown above), depending on a number of factors in the formula including debt service for capital projects, PILOT payments, changes in state aid, etc. Thus far on Long Island, districts in Suffolk and Nassau have identified maximum allowable tax caps of as low as 1%, and as high as more than 5%. It all depends on a district’s financial profile. Remember, the tax cap is imposed on the tax levy, which is the total amount of money collected from property owners; it is not the exact property tax which any resident will have to pay. Property taxes for each dwelling will be determined by your assessed value and other considerations that are not in any district’s control. Using New York State’s formula, the Locust Valley tax cap for 2012-13 is 2.68%. Presuming that the LVCSD Board of Education adopts a budget at 2.68% or lower, for that budget to pass, 50% (plus one) of the participating voters must approve it. Any adopted LVCSD budget that carries a tax levy of more than 2.68% will exceed the allowable LVCSD tax cap and therefore will require that 60% of participating voters approve it. At this time, it is NOT the intention of the LVCSD Board of Education to propose a budget that exceeds the state allowed LVCSD tax cap. In order to obtain the LVCSD tax cap, a complicated state required calculation process was used. This calculation included the previous year’s tax levy, growth in the tax base, and PILOTS (payments in lieu of taxes). To view the exact formula the State requires to calculate each school district’s tax cap, click here. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5135 Fri, 30 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School alum Sean Simensky has been named the Class of 2012 Valedictorian at LI University, C.W. Post Campus. Sean has maintained a 3.99 GPA, and has earned the LIU Post Academic Achievement Award, the university’s highest honor. Sean, who plans to attend law school in the fall, received an IB Diploma from Locust Valley High School. He graduated from C.W. Post a full semester early due to the college credits he received from taking AP and IB courses at LVHS. Sean said the IB program helped him work within deadlines, and think of things in a global way, rather than a local way – a way of thinking that gave him one step ahead in college. “I have great memories from high school,” Sean said. “I had such a great experience and still remember the dedication of my teachers.” He said the incredible teachers he had in Locust Valley made an impact on him and he credits them with helping him to succeed. As a History major, with a double minor in Political Science and Sociology, Sean is well prepared for law school. He has already been accepted to, and received a scholarship from, Touro Law School, and is waiting to hear from St. John’s and Hofstra. He currently has an internship at a law firm since he completed his degree requirements in December. Congratulations, Sean! We look forward to hearing about your future successes! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5121 Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Review sessions are scheduled for exams and students are encouraged to attend. No advanced sign up is necessary. Schedules for individual courses are below: Regents Prep Sessions ENGLISH AP Literature Review Sessions MATH Algebra 1,2, & Geometry Review Sessions IB Math HL Review Sessions SCIENCE AP Environmental Review Sessions Chemistry Review Sessions Earth Science Review Sessions IB Chemistry Review IB Environmental Systems and Societies Review Sessions IB Physics Review Living Environment Review Sessions SOCIAL STUDIES AP Euro Review Sessions AP Psychology Review Sessions IB Psychology Review Sessions AP US History Review Sessions AP World History Review Sessions Global History & Geography Review Sessions US History & Government Review Sessions http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5102 Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Can't make the game? Catch it live online! The Boys Varsity Lacrosse Game vs. Roslyn on Tuesday, March 27th at 4:30 p.m. will be broadcast live on MSGVarsity.com. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=5060 Mon, 26 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT In developing a proposed school budget for the 2012-13 fiscal year, the Locust Valley CSD Board of Education faces many challenges based upon the new property tax cap law and excessive, costly spending mandates. These are real issues that could have significant impacts on our schools, our students, our staff, and our community. Below are some of the questions we have been asked in recent weeks, with FACTUAL answers presented for your consideration. The district will expand these questions and answers in the coming weeks. Q. Does the LVSEA teacher union president receive paid release time during the school day to conduct union business? A. No. There is no paid release time granted to the teacher union president. She is paid only for her job as a teacher. Q. How will a defeated budget affect our district? A. In all likelihood, an initial defeat of the budget would result in spending reductions that will significantly impact staff and programs, since cuts will be required to meet a tax cap budget (currently a 2.68% levy increase). If the budget is defeated twice, the new property tax cap law specifies that the maximum tax levy will be ZERO. This will result in an automatic reduction in spending of approximately $3.5 million, which will require significant reductions, possibly from non-required areas, including class size, transportation, academic programs, clubs, athletics, kindergarten and others. Q. Does the Superintendent of Schools get an annual raise? A. Superintendent Dr. Anna Hunderfund has not received a raise since she was hired four years ago. Q. Does the budget include expenses for private school students? A. Yes, the annual school district budget includes the cost of transportation, books, services for special education students, and software expenses for approximately 800 private school students. All of these expenses are mandated by the State. Q. Why will spending and taxes increase with the proposed budget? A. In 2012-13, school spending and taxes are increasing largely due to the new and existing unfunded state mandates which are legally required. The most dramatic increases for the 2012-2013 school year are due to the new unfunded mandates, including the imposition of the Common Core standards (a new curriculum for grades K-12), APPR (a new teacher and principal evaluation system) and RTI (that requires monitoring and increased remediation for every student in the district). Q. How are Locust Valley students performing on State and national measures of excellence? A. Currently, Locust Valley High School is ranked 139 in the nation (among 27,000 high schools) according to The Washington Post. Locust Valley High School has also tied for first place in Nassau County for Regents Diplomas, demonstrating that our students achieve at very high levels. Locust Valley High School has also been named a New York State School of Distinction, one of only five schools on Long Island to earn this distinction, meaning that every single varsity athletic team earned scholar-athlete status with a team average of 90 or above. At Locust Valley Middle School, more than 90 percent of eighth-graders earn Regents credit (that’s High School credit) before they leave the Middle School. At the elementary level, students are winning national awards in areas such as science research! Q. Did our teachers receive a raise this year? A. Locust Valley teachers agreed not to take a raise this year. They are only receiving step increases, which are required by law. Q. Is the district administratively top heavy? A. No, and in fact, administrative staffing has decreased significantly in recent years. As an example, there has been a sharp reduction in central office administrative positions since 2008. LVCSD Central Office Administrative Positions in 2008-2009 1 Superintendent 1 Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction 1 Assistant Superintendent for Business 1 Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources 1 Director of Technology 1 Director of Pupil Personnel Services 1 Assistant Director of Pupil Personnel Services LVCSD Central Office Administrative Positions in 2011-2012 1 Superintendent 1 Assistant Superintendent for Business Part-time positions for Pupil Personnel Services and Human Resources. In addition, the principals are each doing multiple jobs as well, allowing us to not have to pay for more administrative positions with full-time salaries and benefits. Q. Are there any open seats on the Board of Education? A. Yes, there are two open seats on the Board of Education for a term of three years. Incumbents Erika Bruno and Suzanne Sgueglia are running unopposed. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4947 Fri, 16 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Health and Wellness Council is sponsoring FIT Week (Families Interact as a Team) in conjunction with National Nutrition Week. This district-wide program has been organized to promote quality family time in a healthy, active environment. Each day of FIT Week, from March 26-30, incorporates a different theme, such as “Try a Healthy Food Day” and “Family Sports Night.” On Wednesday, March 28th, there will be a Family Dinner Night focusing on bringing families together to share a healthy and delicious meal. Families of students in kindergarten through 12th grade are encouraged to attend. More information can be found by clicking on the flyers below. FIT Week Activities FIT Week Family Dinner Sign-Up FIT Week Art Contest http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4827 Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School Presents Monday Night at the Movies March 19th, 7:00 p.m. The entire community is invited to a screening of movies created by Locust Valley High School students for the LVHS Annual Film Festival. The festival will be attended by students from 15 schools across Long Island and includes film entries in several categories including animations, commercials, documentaries, public service announcements, short films, movie trailers and music videos. Once again, Sandy Kenyon, the ABC News Film Critic will be the judge of this prestigious film festival. Mr. Kenyon said the following after attending his first Locust valley film festival: "There is no finer program anywhere for any young person interested in making films. The student films from Locust Valley High School are among the best on the East Coast, and the quality of instruction available there is clearly superior to any other school in the area." Don't miss your chance to see these amazing films, just days before Sandy Kenyon will be back to judge this year's film festival. The Locust Valley films will be screened for the community on Monday, March 19th at 7:00 p.m. in the high school auditorium. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4902 Tue, 13 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Two Locust Valley High School students advanced to round two in the Long Island Science and Engineering Fair (LISEF). Anastasia Cassisi and Emily Schlicht, students from Mr. Hoppner’s Independent Science Research Program were chosen from more than 600 students who presented 425 projects. Their project was entitled, “On Site Monitoring of Dissolved Oxygen and Nitrogen to Assess Effects of the Invasive Species, Trapas Natans (Water Chestnut) on a Local Pond.” Fourteen Locust Valley students presented individual and group projects at the fair, which was sponsored by the Society for Science and the Public. Students were judged by local professors, doctors, and scientific academia on the planning, execution, and results of their experiments. The top 30 percent were then selected to move on to round two, which will be held in late March at the Cradle of Aviation Museum. Anastasia and Emily’s project contained data and results which were collected and analyzed using techniques learned the previous summer when they worked with Mr. Hoppner and Friends of the Bay, under the direction of the organization’s Director, Patricia Aiken. The girls will now be in the running to win an all-expenses-paid trip to ISEF 2012, which will be held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Congratulations to Anastasia and Emily, as well as to all of the students who participated, and their teacher Mr. Hoppner. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4822 Wed, 07 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students in Locust Valley Middle School’s Home and Careers class are learning how to make healthy choices. Eating healthy is important, but it can be confusing to decipher all the nutrition information about a particular food. Nutrition labels offer a lot of data, but it is not useful if you don’t understand it. That’s why Home and Careers teacher Meris First assigned her students a project that taught them how to analyze a food label. Students recently collected five labels from foods they found in their pantries at home. They were taught what each line means … the fat, protein, calorie, fiber, and carbohydrate content. By utilizing research skills and computer skills, the students created charts and graphs that broke down the nutrition content of each food, helping them to understand what makes a food healthy or unhealthy. The lesson was a collaboration of health and careers, computer class, and community service, as students brought in cans and boxes of the foods they were analyzing to donate to Island Harvest. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4802 Tue, 06 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Boys Varsity Basketball season was the best in Locust Valley history, with the team earning the title of County Champions. They were the first Locust Valley boys basketball team to ever compete in the Long Island Championship game. Despite a loss against Center Moriches, they played like champions. The Falcons traveled over to SUNY Farmingdale. After a long hard week of practice, the boys were as excited they have been all season for the game. The gym was electric with the stands packed with all LV fans decked out in green, waving green pom poms and cheering their hearts out. The Falcons put on a fantastic show, staying ahead most of the game and losing by only five points (55-50). It was a great overall season and the boys have made everybody in the community so proud. Although they wanted the Long Island Championship more than anything, it cannot be forgotten that they brought Locust Valley their first county championship in school history. This is a team that will always be remembered. Congratulations to the players and their coaches on an incredible season of basketball! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4803 Tue, 06 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT BI students care about the environment and after learning that plastic bottle caps were the second most littered object on the beach, next to cigarette butts, they decided to do something. Through a collaborative effort among many subject areas, the students collected these bottle caps and decided to re-purpose them. After placing signs and collection bins around the community and within the school, many bottle caps were received. Art teacher, Erin Keys, library media specialist, Paige Coppola, computer lab teaching assistant, Debbie McKillen and gifted and talented teacher, Joe Aragonesi, all pitched in to help the students make a difference. With the collection including bottle caps in a wide array of colors and sizes, the students worked together to recreate the famous Van Gogh painting "Starry Night," using only the bottle caps. Since students in all grades at BI study Van Gogh, the project tied into the curriculum perfectly. Students and staff at BI hope that by collecting the bottle caps and re-purposing them, the items won’t end up in the ocean waters, and marine life won’t be harmed by them. Since the bottle cap donations are still coming in, the school has decided to continue with the recycling effort. Next year's project will be a butterfly mural since the third graders study the monarch butterfly each year. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4789 Mon, 05 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students throughout the district are recognizing Black History Month through lessons that include the study of notable African Americans throughout history. It’s not only history classes that take advantage of this national month of recognition. Art teachers, music teachers, and librarians are finding creative ways to make their lessons interesting and impactful. Music classes are learning songs such as the “Afro American Symphony" by William Grant. The study of jazz teaches students about the influence that African-Americans had on this art form. Art classes are studying the works of famous black artists including Jean-Michel Basquiat, who gained recognition for the way in which he spilled his thoughts, environment, culture, and identity into his work. Students in Melanie Mooney’s middle school art class imitated Basquiat’s style, illustrating ways of defining themselves, as opposed to being defined by others. Ms. Mooney said it is important to celebrate Black History Month. “We help the students to have awareness and celebrate the similarities, rather than focusing on the differences between people,” she stated, adding that “art connects all people.” In libraries throughout the district, books are being read that recognize prominent African American figures and role models. Social Studies and ELA classes are reading books about Jesse Owens and IB classes are conducting in-depth research on topics such as the African Independence movements and the Harlem Renaissance. At the elementary schools, classroom teachers and librarians are reading stories about the civil war and slavery. At AMP, students are reading Home Field Advantage by Justin Tuck, a black player on the Giants who, in addition to being a football player, funds an organization called RUSH that donates children's books to different urban areas. AMP Librarian Jacquie Galano said these topics overlap with other important lessons relating to character education, such as tolerance and inclusion. “Justin Tuck is a good role model,” she explained. Black History Month is a good time to focus on these important people and groups in history, however students learn about diversity and acceptance throughout the entire year. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4708 Tue, 28 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Members of the LVHS book club love to read. They love it so much that they want to promote reading and pass their passion on to the younger students at the middle school. In order to do this, they held a “Read-Cycle” Book Exchange. Serving two purposes, this book swap offered students a chance to recycle books they had already read while giving them the opportunity to acquire new books to enjoy. Middle School students brought their gently used, middle-school level books to school and received a ticket from the HS Book Club for each book they donated. On the day of the “Read-cycle” Book Exchange, each student could redeem their tickets for books brought in by other students. The event was an excellent opportunity to expose children to a variety of literature, to encourage recycling, and for the younger students to see how highly the high school students value reading. “The High School Book Club members set a wonderful example for the middle school students,” said Library Media Chairperson Barbara Mierlak. “Hopefully, the younger students will be inspired to join the book club when they enter the high school.” Ms. Mierlak is also the advisor for the Book Club. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4714 Tue, 28 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4662 Sun, 26 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT For the first time in Locust Valley history, the Boys Varsity Basketball team has clinched the Nassau County Class B Championship title, advancing them to the Long Island Championships on Tuesday, March 6th. The Falcons defeated Cold Spring Harbor in a nail biter that ended in a 27-24 victory. Go Falcons!! The Falcons returned to action at C.W. Post and after a long, tough week of practice, the coaching staff was confident that the boys were ready to play and that energy would be at an all-time high. Although the game was low scoring, with the Falcons winning 27-24, the defensive intensity started right from the start and continued throughout all four quarters. Like always, senior Alex Rawa got the team off to a quick start hitting his first few shots and getting the Falcons an early lead. Matt Campanella and Joe Gilio also chipped in offensively making their first couple of jump shots. Chris Appell and Bradley Conn, although not showing up much on the stat sheet, provided the Falcons with energy and toughness throughout entire game. The County Championship game was filmed and will be aired on MSG Varsity, Channel 14, on Monday, February 27th at 7:30 p.m. Tune in to check out this action-packed game. You can also read more about the game on Newsday.com. Continue to cheer the boys on as the Falcons compete against Center Moriches for the Long Island Class B Championship on March 6th at 7:30 p.m. at SUNY Farmingdale. The admission fee is $7. Congratulations and good luck at the Long Island Championship game! The Lady Falcons, defeating the odds to get to the Nassau County Class B finals, lost a tough game to Cold Spring Harbor by a score of 45-31. Locust Valley was led by junior Brooke Spallino and freshman Caroline Rawa, who both scored seven points apiece. CSH began the game with red hot shooting and strong defense and took a 26-10 lead into half time. However, LV would fight back and outscore CSH 21-20 in the second half. Providing strong play for the Lady Falcons was Senior Natasha Jahchan, who had four points and seven rebounds. Juniors Marissa Reyes (5 points, 10 rebounds), Marcella Applewhaite (2 points, 4 rebounds) and Sammy Altimari (2 points, 3 assists) also provided solid play throughout the game. Sophomores Mary Leibold and Jackie D’Elia, and Senior Bryanne Venturino came off the bench to add energy and enthusiasm. Congratulations to the Lady Falcons on an extremely strong season. The future is bright for this team, as they return nine players next season. County Finals Slideshow http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4661 Sat, 25 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Girls and Boys Varsity Basketball Teams Advance to Nassau County Class B Championships! The girls will compete against Cold Spring Harbor for the Class B County Championship on Saturday, February 25 at 6:30 p.m. at C.W. Post. The boys will compete against Cold Spring Harbor for the Class B County Championship on Saturday, February 25 at 8:30 p.m. at C.W. Post. LV Varsity Girls Basketball Team Defeats Carle Place to Advance to County Championship The Girls' Varsity Basketball team defeated #2 Carle Place by a score of 45-42 to advance to the Finals of the Nassau County Class "B" Championship. With the win, the Lady Falcons improve to 13-5 on the season. The first half would be a struggle, however, as Carle Place jumped out to a 25-20 halftime lead. The second half would be a different story. Locust Valley came out firing in the third, using a full-court trap and sharp shooting to turn the tide. Junior Marissa Reyes scored 6 of her ten points in the third quarter and fellow Junior Brooke Spallino would score 9 of her career-high 23 points in the quarter as well to help L.V. take a 36-34 lead. The game would go back and forth throughout the final quarter. Junior point guard Sammy Altimari scored a key basket late, and then hit 1 of 2 free throws to give the Lady Falcons a 43-42 lead with under one minute to play. Then it was time for Brooke Spallino to take over; she would come up with a key steal and then hit two free throws to seal the game with seven seconds left. Her final key play would be on a block of Carle Place's last ditch three-point attempt with two seconds left. Brooke would also hit six of six free throws in the final quarter. Senior Natasha Jahchan also was a key contributor with four points and strong defense throughout the game and Freshman Caroline Rawa scored three points while playing both the guard and forward spots. Sophomores Jackie D'Elia and Chantal Jahchan, along with Junior Marcella Apllewhaite, provided inspired play in the victory as well. Locust Valley now returns to the "B" finals, looking for their second title in three years. LV Boys Varsity Basketball Team Defeats Oster Bay to Advance to County Championship The Falcons, after ending the season with a tough three game losing streak, set out to change their recent ways and win their first playoff game in three years. Entering the playoffs as the 2nd seed, the Falcons drew the 3rd seed Oyster Bay in the Class B semi-finals at C.W. Post. Although the bus ride over to the local college gym was rather short, it was clear the boys were focused on one thing and one thing only, getting a win. It was the third time this year the boys have faced Oyster Bay so both teams were familiar with the other team’s tendencies and based on the earlier two meetings, it was clear that it was going to be a highly competitive game. Just as everybody expected, the game was close from the jump but the Falcons, as they have done so many times this year, excelled late in the game and came away with a huge 45-42 victory. Due to an injury suffered by Glenn Hefter, Joe Gilio was put in the starting rotation and came up huge for the Falcons. Gilio got off to a hot start, scoring a quick 9 points and kept the team in the game early. His timely shooting, defense pressure, and overall intensity got the whole team going and it was exactly what Locust Valley was looking for. Point Guard Chris Appell played an incredible game. Although he only finished with one point, he had an impressive 10 assists, 10 steals, and like a true pit bull was tenacious all game defensively. Matt Campanella played a solid overall game and to nobody’s surprise, made a couple of clutch shots to extend the Falcons lead in the second half. Alex Rawa continued to rebound the ball like Bill Lambeer and kept the team under control when Oyster Bay made a run early in the second half. Like a true team player, the only thing that mattered to him after the game was that the team got the win and they now had the chance to play for the Class B County Championship. Finally, enough can’t be said about Bradley Conn and Shane Rostad. These two are willing to do anything for the overall success of the team, which was obvious by Bradley diving all over the floor and stepping up to guard Oyster Bay’s best player. Rostad, who suffered a fractured orbital bone a week earlier, would not let anything stand in his way of playing in this game. Even with the protective mask he was required to wear, he still played with the same intensity he had all year long. His determination to play was inspirational to the entire team. All of the fan support at the boys and girls semifinals is greatly appreciated and the Falcons hope you will be there to cheer them on and provide the same support at the finals on Saturday. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4627 Tue, 21 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT The boys’ and girls’ basketball teams played for a good cause as they raised funds for cancer research during the boys’ “Coaches versus Cancer” event and the girls’ “Think Pink” event. Each of the Varsity and JV teams dressed to support the cause for one of their games – the boys all in white, and the girls wearing pink socks and hair ribbons. For both games, a ceremonial pink ball brought the theme full circle. The boys’ teams dedicated their games to Pete Miller, their youth coach who lost his battle with cancer three years ago. Most of the boys on the JV and Varsity teams were coached by Mr. Miller and he therefore had a great impact on the LVHS basketball program. Between the girls and boys, $350 was collected for cancer research, and awareness was spread throughout the community. The events’ success was due to the dedication of the player, the coaches, and support from the Athletic Council, which was instrumental in promoting the games and showing support by decorating the gymnasium for each of the games. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4556 Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Middle school students have long had the unique opportunity of viewing high school art work as they walk past the art galleries in the showcases near the auditorium. Now, rather than just viewing and admiring the work, middle school art students are participating in “Art Talks,” which provide an opportunity to hear the high school artists describe the creative process, inspiration, and techniques behind these advanced pieces. Twice each month, a student from the high school’s IB Visual Arts class leads an “Art Talk” in front of the showcase displaying his or her paintings, drawings, photographs, and sketches. Middle school art classes gather in front of the showcases and listen to the high school artists explain how each piece was created. Middle school students learn that the creations are often the result of research into a time period, person, geographical location, or artistic style. Robert Buonaspina, the District’s IB Coordinator said the progam is intended to showcase the tremendous amount of effort and talent from the juniors and seniors enrolled in the two year IB Visual Arts courses. Mr. Buonaspina, who initiated the Art Talks, said the program is beneficial in many ways. "It important for our Middle School students to see and learn from the High School students about their experiences and artistic influences as they begin the process of becoming proficient in the arts". Donna Chaplin, a Locust Valley Middle School/High School art teacher said her middle school classes benefit greatly from the Art Talks. “I am always looking for opportunities for students to look at and talk about art,” she said. Ms. Chaplin gave her class a critique form to fill out while viewing the student exhibit, which the class then discussed together the next day. “It’s a great way to work on art terminology while getting comfortable describing and interpreting works.” High School senior Jaime Jaget, who led the first of the scheduled Art Talks said that she felt a sense of pride knowing the middle school students were getting something out of her presentation. “I really wanted to inspire them by opening their minds to art and its process because it is such an expressive activity,” Jaime said. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4561 Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Middle School Valentine’s Day Dance is Friday, February, 10th from 7:00 -9:00 p.m. Tickets are $8 in advance (available during lunch) or $10 at the door. Pizza and refreshments will be served. The student council and the art club are decorating the cafeteria and making the snacks. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4516 Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT LVHS seniors Tyler Fallon and Christina Boutros took third place out of 72 teams in the chemistry event at the Western Long Island Regional Science Olympiad competition. Thirty LVHS students participated in the competition, which involved twenty different events from all areas of science. Some of the events were pen and paper tests; others involved the students constructing towers designed to support a weight up to 15KG (about 30 pounds), a gravity car, and a magnetic levitation sled. Tyler and Christina competed in the several events, including a chemistry lab. This event was a combination of test questions and lab activities. Congratulations to Tyler, Christina, and the entire team for a job well done! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4518 Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Bayville Intermediate School Student Council is doing their part to keep the community warm. During the council’s annual coat drive, more than 100 warm coats were collected. These coats will be donated to the homeless in the area. Student Council advisors Christine Hujber and Jenna Selzer said the Student Council worked very hard to get the word out about the drive. Thanks to members of the student council for their efforts and to the community for their generosity! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4520 Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Wrestling team will be competing in the Division II Nassau County Wrestling Championships. The first rounds will be held on Saturday February 11 at Mineola High School at 9:30 a.m. The semifinals and finals will be held on Sunday February 12 at Hofstra University at 10:00 a.m. There will be an entrance fee of $6.00 each day. Come cheer on the Falcon wrestlers as they compete for the county championship! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4461 Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Fifth grade students and their teachers at Locust Valley Intermediate School rolled out of bed one recent morning and arrived at school in their pajamas. They hadn’t overslept or forgotten to get dressed. Actually, they were dressed just right for pajama day! The comfy, cozy attire was worn in support of the student council’s pajama collection, “Project Sweet Dreams.” The collection of new pajamas, donated by students and staff in the school, will be given to a local orphanage in the hopes that they too will be cozy and comfy when they go to sleep at night. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4435 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Class of 2012 Salutatorian Hannah Milnes has been named a National Merit Scholarship Finalist by the College Board based on her exceptional performance on the Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test (PSAT). Although this honor is bestowed upon less than one percent of high school seniors nationwide each year, this is the third year in a row that Locust Valley High School has had a National Merit Finalist. Seniors Tyler Fallon and Natasha Jahchan were named National Merit Scholarship Commended Honorees earlier this school year. Hannah was named a Semifinalist in the competition, which put her in the running to be named a finalist. The PSAT was taken by 1.5 million high school juniors in 2010. Of those students, Hannah is among an elite group of 15,000 finalists nationwide made up of less than one percent of all the students taking the PSAT. The College Board shares the names of students who earn these distinctions with colleges and universities. As a finalist, Hannah is now eligible to receive scholarships of $10,000 towards her college education. These scholarships can come from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, corporate sponsors, or the universities the finalists attend. Congratulations Hannah on this elite accomplishment! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4437 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Bayville Intermediate School’s fifth graders may have been acting like clowns, but who says you can’t have fun while learning some new skills? Thanks to the Bayville PTA, the National Circus Project visited the school for one week, teaching students circus skills that utilized other skills they had learned in physical education classes. From balancing and tumbling to synchronizing with the group, the fifth graders created an entertaining circus act which was enjoyed by the performers and audience alike. “While they utilized the skills learned in physical education classes, performing in the circus also increased self-esteem and provided some comic relief to the school day,” said Bayville Elementary Principal Scott McElhiney. The National Circus Project is an innovative cultural arts organization that promotes student participation in school arts and physical education activities, using "circus" as its theme. Circus performers/instructors taught the performers circus skills including juggling, plate-spinning, "devil stick" manipulation and balancing. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4445 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT Pride seemed to be the theme as 99 LVMS students were inducted into the National Junior Honor Society on February 2nd. There were proud parents, proud teachers, and proud administrators celebrating with the inductees. But it was the students themselves that were the proudest and it showed as their smiles beamed throughout the ceremony. The National Junior Honor Society advisors, Kelley Grassi and Jennifer Tichy, who organized the ceremony, read aloud each of the inductees proudest moments and goals for the future. While many of the proudest moments included going to a good college, or having a great career, the majority were proudest of being accepted to this prestigious society. They have every right to feel proud of themselves. The National Junior Honor Society is an elite group that accepts members by invitation only. These students had to do more than achieve high grades to be accepted. Each of them had to exhibit the society’s five pillars of excellence: Scholarship, Service, Leadership, Character, and Citizenship. “These young men and women are not just smart, they go the extra mile,” said Principal H. Thomas Hogan. He, along with Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund, and Board of Education Vice President Suzanne Sgueglia, offered the inductees congratulations and encouraged them to continue on this path of success. Current members of the National Junior Honor Society participated in the event as well, by shaking the hands of each inductee as they signed the book of honor. In addition, the current officers lit each of the candles representing the pillars of character. Sara Orellana, Caroline Pantofel, Molly Friedman, Spencer Matthaei, and Christian Casazza read a description of each pillar prior to lighting the corresponding candle. Inductees then took the oath of the society and lit their own candles. Three of the inductees, Carmine, Francesco, and Marconi D’Auria-Gupta (triplets) performed The Impossible Dream from Man of La Mancha. The selection was inspiring and reminded the group that they can achieve impossible dreams. Congratulations to all of the inductees and their families! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4416 Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT During the past week, Newsday incorrectly reported that our District applied for Race To The Top funds and that we would receive $146,172 in additional State aid for the 2012-2013 school year. In fact, our District never applied for nor participated in any way with Race To The Top. Moreover, as of today, the actual increase to our State Aid is $70,632, more than $75,000 less than was reported. Newsday has been informed and asked to correct their information. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4401 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Bayville PTA is holding two meetings to present important facts about the ways in which the newly imposed tax cap will affect the 2012-2013 school district budget. February 9 at 6:30 p.m. at Bayville Intermediate School February 15 at 7 p.m. at Bayville Intermediate School http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4260 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click here to print a voter registration form. Click here to download an Absentee Ballot Form. You may also register in person in the Locust Valley School District. By doing so, you will only be qualified to vote in school district votes. To register in the school district click here to print out the district form. Bring this form to the District Clerk’s office, Administration Building, Horse Hollow Road, Locust Valley on school days between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. through May 10, 2012. Special Saturday registration will be held on May 5, 2012 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Administration Building at 22 Horse Hollow Road. May 10, 2012 is the last day to register for the May 15, 2012 Budget Vote and Election of the Board of Education Trustees. Special voter registration will be held on Saturday, May 5, 2012 at the Administration Building from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. An Absentee Ballot can be used by anyone who is unable to appear in person on the day of the school district election. For further information: Click here for Absentee Ballot Information In the event that you have any questions or concerns regarding voter registration, voting procedures or voting locations, please do not hesitate to call the District Clerk’s office at 277-5007. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4335 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT He may not be as famous as that big purple dinosaur, but Sparky, the blue and orange dinosaur who serves as the mascot for The NY Islanders has some important messages to share with children. Sparky did just that when he visited the Bayville Elementary Schools to promote healthy living and good decision making. The students at BP and BI, many dressed in Islanders jerseys, welcomed Sparky with applause and cheers and took his message to heart. Sparky, along with the NY Islanders Arena Hostess, Dina, shared a video in which team members explained the importance of making smart decisions. These decisions include eating right, drinking plenty of water, getting exercise every day, and staying away from drugs. Dina and Sparky quizzed the students afterwards to see what they remembered and Bayville got it all right! They repeated back to Sparky and Dina that they should eat vegetables and fruit, while avoiding candy and cake. They said they would dance, do gymnastics, play soccer, football, and hockey, and walk the dog for exercise. Bayville Elementary Assistant Principal Dorothy McManus said the program reinforces the messages they teach all year long. “Coming from a fun, larger than life mascot makes the lesson fun and memorable for them,” she explained. “They look forward to it and talk about long after The Islanders are gone.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4313 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Writers/Directors’ Monologue Workshop: “HERO” was a moving and impressive array of performances by LVHS students. The monologues were not only performed by these students, but written and directed by them as well. Under the direction of Mr. Lynch and Mrs. Bolitho, the following students wrote, directed, and performed in their own monologues: Emily Canales Deborah Davidson Laura Doukas Rhonda Drewes Mitch Guadagni Anne Hollmuller Shivangi Kakar Richard Kihm Riley Larkin Chris Manzi Jamie Murcott Annarose Settepani Jessica Turner With Special performances by Ernest Schieferstein and Emily Parks (performing the works of other students). http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4137 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Varsity Cheerleaders will be the focus of a feature story on MSG Varsity, Channel 14 called "The Cheering Life." The MSG Varsity segment will air Tuesday, January 24th at 7:00 p.m. on Channel 14, featuring the Locust Valley Cheerleaders for their athletic abilities and their incredible community service work. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4291 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT A special presentation: Transition to College for students with disabilities will be held on February 6th at 7:30 p.m. Click here for more information. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4286 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Middle School's Festivus, scheduled for Saturday, January 21st, has been canceled due to the weather. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4268 Sat, 21 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students often learn best by doing, rather than seeing, which is the premise of the high school’s Congress in Action program. In its 23rd year, the program has students presenting original bills, arguing the pros and cons of issues, and voting on each bill. The simulated role-play process mirrors the functions of the actual House of Representatives. The Locust Valley High School seniors who participated in the event took it very seriously – arguing their bills with concrete research and intense emotion. Locust Valley Social Studies Department Leader David J. Ethe who organizes the event each year, explained that there is no better way for students to learn how our nation’s government works. “It teaches them first-hand how bills are created, generated, debated and passed, as well as teaching them a variety of practical skills that will aid them throughout their education and in their future careers.” These skills include public speaking, research methodologies, working in teams and learning to compromise on solutions to current issues facing our nation. Each student assumed the persona of a member of the House of Representatives, researched and wrote a bill as part of a committee, and argued for the passing of the bill during a Student Mock Congress. The entire senior class participated in the event, getting a “feel” for the challenges that politicians are faced with when trying to pass new legislation, as students listened to their peers argue both for and against the bills they presented. Each student congressperson performed extensive research to ensure that the bills were factual and could withstand the scrutiny of the student congress. The experience was very realistic, as students’ bills were reviewed by their committee members and revised until the full committee was satisfied. The congressional committees chose bills that could actually be proposed in the United States Congress. The bills were topical, usually having a connection to current events including, the creation of a federal death penalty, increased funding for embryonic stem cell research, increased funding to provide job training for the homeless, imposing a tax on unhealthy foods and beverages, and raising education standards in the United States. Lower classmen are invited to watch the mock congress during their social studies classes and look forward to participating in the event during their senior year. This year’s Rules Committee was comprised of Tyler Fallon, Speaker of the House; Christina Boutros, Majority Leader; Karina Wrona, Majority Whip; Rausan Boujerdi, Minority Leader; Hannah Milnes, Minority Whip; Sean Rudowsky and Ken Syrett, Sargent-at-Arms. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4259 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Students at AMP were taken on a magical field trip to Disney … without ever leaving the school building! Physical Education teacher Maribeth Miller transformed the gymnasium into a miniature replica of Disney, complete with movies, rides, and souvenirs! “Disney Days” incorporates the excitement of Disney characters with skills the children are learning in physical education class, and in their regular classrooms. As children ride scooters around the various Disney stations, they use physical skills such as balance and kicking. They use math skills as they count to ten while pumping gas into their scooters and they practice reading as they look at the names of the various stations they can visit. There was a Disney theater, library, day care (for stuffed animals), highway (for scooter riding), Diner for making pretend snacks, and a souvenir shop for browsing. AMP Assistant Principal Michele Yuskiewicz said that Ms. Miller takes an incredibly fun experience and incorporates many parts of the curriculum into the event. “She doesn’t just focus on physical education skills. There is reading, math, geography, and so much more. The children have no idea how much they are gaining from this – they are just having a blast,” she said. Kindergarten students entered the transformed gymnasium with mouths wide open in surprise. Jumping up and down, the youngest students couldn’t wait to get started on their Disney journey. Second graders, who have enjoyed Disney Days each year at AMP, were sad to say goodbye to the special program at the end of their physical education class. “I’ll miss you Disney,” they yelled as they left the gymnasium. “Don’t forget me!” Ms. Miller said that when she sees former students now in high school, they always ask about Disney Days. “They always remember the event as one of their favorites,” she said. Although setting up the event is a tremendous amount of work, the smiles on the children’s faces and the fact that they never forget it, makes it all worthwhile for her. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4217 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School students had the opportunity to hear first-hand advice on what may be considered the biggest decision of their lives. On January 5 during the school day, seniors attended the second annual Alumni Day, giving them direct access to LVHS graduates attending a variety of colleges and universities. That same evening, underclassmen and their families heard from former LVHS International Baccalaureate students about how the IB program has helped them succeed in college and beyond. The consensus during both programs was that the education received in Locust Valley helped students with time management, carrying a heavy workload, establishing effective student/teacher relationships, making presentations, and so much more. Specifically, many alumni said that taking classes in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program prepared them so well for the college curriculum that their college classes don’t even seem difficult. The most consistent piece of advice our alum shared was the importance of reading! They realized very quickly during their first semester that just perusing the text book would not cut it – very good advice for our current students! Tips on choosing the right college or university included visiting the schools before making a decision and taking into consideration one’s individual needs. At least two students said they were attending a school that was actually their last choice or one that they would never have considered, yet ended up being the perfect choice for them. The common message was “to keep an open mind.” Advice on succeeding academically included doing all the work assigned, such as reading, even if it won’t be reviewed in class or checked by the professor. Other important advice revolved around managing money (one young lady realized she was out of food money after only a few weeks) as well as time management. The alumni explained that there are always students who go out every night of the week regardless of the school they attend, so it is important to learn how to have a healthy balance. The current high school students asked about deadlines, assignments, and professor availability…..our alum made it clear that college professors do not give reminders, extra time, or hold your hand. They do, however, offer extra help during office hours. The opportunity to join clubs, sports, and do new activities was highlighted as one of the biggest benefits of college. The audience was encouraged to try new things, to branch out, and to enjoy whatever their individual school offers. A number of alumni discussed joining clubs they would never have dreamed of being interested such as the Harry Potter favorite, Quidditch, and rugby. LVHS Assistant Principal Rebecca Gottesman said that holding Alumni Day is an excellent opportunity for high school students to hear the real facts about choosing a college, and what to expect when they get there. “It also reminds them of what they need to continue to do in high school, to be the most prepared once they take this next step in their lives!” In addition to the general daytime session, break-out sessions were held and organized both by college and by major. This allowed the seniors to target their questions to the alumni who were best able to answer them. The evening session, the IB Alumni Presentation, brought 19 former IB students back to speak on how the IB program specifically helped them to succeed as college students and in the work world. “What these students said spoke volumes about the many benefits attained from this program,” said LV IB Coordinator Bob Buonaspina. “Now that we have eight years of experience with the IB program, we have a broader perspective of this program’s true worth to our students over time.” Students shared personal stories about the challenges of the IB program that made them stronger students, better writers, and critical thinkers. The audience was able to glean from their experiences the benefits of this rigorous curriculum. Holding both alumni sessions served a large segment of the population, looking at specific aspects of the IB curriculum in the evening, while offering a broader picture of the college experience during the daytime session. LVHS Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire said the two events brought the benefits of alumni day full circle. “All sorts of students with a variety of interests and a variety of skills benefitted from these sessions, whether they are deciding how many IB classes to take or choosing the colleges to which they aspire.” Special thanks to the following alumni for their participation in this informative session: Sami Limperis-Kaufman, Quinnipiac University; Angelo Marciano, Providence College; Nick Parra, University of the Arts; Hollace Francy, Vassar College; Mike Harrington, Nassau Community College; Mark Vessalico, University of Pennsylvania; Gina States, Roanoke College; Nicole Friedman , Skidmore College; Sarah Buffa , SUNY New Paltz; Zoe Vinegar, St. Lawrence University; AJ Nickas, Cornell University; Craig Casazza, Fordham University; Brittany Gruter, Fashion Institute of Technology; Paula Picone, Mercy College; Jack Lynch, CUNY Baruch; Mary Leah Milnes, Vanderbilt University; Rebecca Hanley, University of Maryland; Ally Randall, SUNY New Paltz; Spencer Calligar , High Point University; Patricia Roth, Providence College; Kristi Santoli, NY Institute of Technology; Mei Kurakake, SUNY Binghamton; Phil Merenda, Ithaca College; Adam Parente, American University; Katelyn Tisch, Cornell University; Joseph Sorbara, Ithaca College; Peter Trinder, McGill University; Nicole Dooley, Kutztown University; Catherine Hoar, Tufts University; Maurice Chianese, University of Colorado, Boulder; Nicole Garcia, UCLA; Alexa Rivadeneira, University of Delaware; Omar Abdelkader, NY Institute of Technology; Olivia Cohen, Buchnell University; Alexander Sharp, Georgetown University; Brittany Eude, Lake Forest College; Francesca Bonadolnna, Carnegie Mellon. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4222 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Click here for information on the MS 3on3 basketball fundraiser being held today, Thursday, January 12th http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4178 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT An informational meeting will be held to provide parents with important information regrading the college athletic recruiting process on February 8th. Please click here for more information http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4179 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to senior Natasha Jahchan who has been named a News 12 Long Island/Capitol One Bank Scholar-Athlete for her academic achievement in the classroom and her athletic prowess on the playing court. Natasha was featured in an Scholar-Athlete segment on News 12. Captain of the Girls Varsity Basketball team, Natasha achieved All-Class status last year as a junior, when she was also named the team’s Most Valuable Player. Additionally, she started as a sophomore on the squad that won the Nassau County Championship two years ago and is currently in the midst of her fourth season with the team. Natasha is a three-year member of the Girls Varsity Soccer team, for which she captained this fall, was named a Conference All-Star and achieved Scholar-Athlete status with a cumulative academic average of 90 for the entire season. In fact, Natasha has earned Scholar-Athlete status every year of her high school career. She was also a two-year starter and former captain on the Junior Varsity Lacrosse team. “An exemplary student-athlete, Natasha embodies all of the characteristics we look for: athletic ability, character, and strong leadership qualities,” said Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics, Mark J. Dantuono. “Most importantly, she is a kind and sincere young lady.” Academically, Natasha is near the top of her class. She was named a Commended Student in the 2011 National Merit Scholarship Program; has achieved High Honor Roll for four years; is a member of the National Honor Society; is a four-year member of the National French Honor Society; and currently serves as President of the school’s IB Leadership Club. Last year she was ranked 14th in the country in the National French Contest and earned the school’s Community Service Award. As a sophomore Natasha also won the Gold Medal in the Al Kalfus Long Island Math Fair and has competed in various regional science competitions, including the Long Island Science Congress. “Natasha is an extraordinary student and just a great all-around person,” added Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire. “She is taking the most rigorous courses in all disciplines and has been a terrific leader, not just in athletics but in and around the school and community as well.” This includes tutoring as many as six different students, speaking to younger student-athletes about sportsmanship, volunteering for the Boys and Girls Club, and participating in a hunger banquet and Relay for Life. Natasha is also one of only 85 students around the world to participate in the highly challenging IB Further Math course and in her junior year achieved outstanding scores on her IB exams, particularly in the areas of physics and psychology. “IB has prepared me for college and helps me to keep an open mind, the value of knowledge and how to apply what I have learned,” said Natasha, who is currently looking at multiple schools at which she plans to major in Architecture and play Division III women’s basketball. “The athletic program has always been supportive of my work in the classroom, as well as on the court and on the field.” Natasha is one of only 30 high school student-athletes island-wide to be chosen for the prestigious News 12/Capitol One Scholar-Athlete honor. Capitol One Senior Vice President for Professional Services and Private Banking, Andrew Corrado, presented Natasha with a plaque of recognition and awarded her a $1,000 scholarship to be used toward her college education. She will also be in the running for the Scholar-Athlete of the year scholarship award of $5,000. News 12 representatives recorded the presentation, interviewed Natasha and others at the school and followed her through her daily routine as part of the televised segment. This is the second consecutive year that a Locust Valley High School student has been chosen for this prestigious honor. Congratulations, Natasha! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4151 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT This year's Wrestling Invitational, held on Saturday, January 7th, was an extremely competitive tournament as perenial Nassau County power house McArthur High School participated in the tournament. Highlights of the day included freshman Nick Casella winning his weight class at the 99 pound division and junior Louis Falciano advancing to the finals in the 285 pound class. The event's success was in large part due to the support of the parents of the wrestling program, our booster club Falcon Pride, and Athletic Council. Thank to these groups, our coaching staff, and custodial team! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4129 Sun, 08 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Interact Club in association with the Rotary of Locust Valley is participating in the Mobility Project. The crutches that you may have used after a skiing accident or a walker no longer needed by a loved one would be greatly beneficial in developing nations. If you have a walker or crutches that are no longer necessary in your home please send them to your child’s school by January 20th. The Interact Club will deliver your contributions to Rotary at that time. As always, thank you for your help. Please use a drop off point listed below for your contribution. Locust Valley High School/Middle School – Sign in desk at the High School entrance. Bayville Elementary – Mr. Aragonesi’s room in Bayville Intermediate Locust Valley Elementary – Mr. Aragonesi’s room in Locust Valley Intermediate http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4096 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT LVHS film students were honored to have ABC Entertainment Reporter and Film Critic Sandy Kenyon teach a film workshop for them at the high school. Mr. Kenyon, who has served as the judge for the LVHS Film Festival for the past two years, offered to run the workshop after being impressed with the district’s film program. Mr. Kenyon watched students shoot a scene for a film and then critiqued their directing, camera positioning, lighting, and acting. He offered suggestions for improvement, explained how professional filmmakers work, and answered questions from the students. “This was an invaluable experience for our students,” explained LVHS Film teacher Bruce Campbell. “The opportunity to receive feedback from an expert in the field – someone who critiques professional films for a living – can be very powerful." Mr. Campbell said the students are applying Mr. Kenyon’s suggestions and is confident it will improve the quality of their films. In addition to what they learned, the positive feedback has served as motivation. “When a student hears from a professional critic that he thinks they can make it in the movie business, it inspires them to work even harder.” During the workshop, Mr. Kenyon shared films from students in other schools, as well as stories about his own career. The district is very grateful to Mr. Kenyon for giving of his time for the benefit of Locust Valley students. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4097 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT Members of the HS Culinary Club rolled up their sleeves and got to work for a good cause. They were busy mixing, dipping, and frosting to fill orders for a fundraising bake sale. The profits will be donated to Island Harvest in the hopes of helping families in need this holiday season. Culinary Club advisor Meris First said the benefits are two-fold - the students have fun and help a great cause at the same time! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4022 Mon, 26 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley cheerleaders have been giving back to the community in many ways. As they have been doing for many years, the team collected teddy bears to donate to children in hospitals and homeless shelters. The community service project was part of a bigger teddy bear collection effort by the New York State Fraternal Order of Court Officers. But not just children benefit from the cheerleaders’ generosity. Residents of Glen Cove Manor enjoyed a holiday performance that put smiles on their faces. In a place where many people are recovering from an illness or injury, or just feeling lonely during the holiday season, the visit was a great way to “cheer” them up. Mrs. Bea Rupp’s sixth grade home and careers class made special holiday gifts that the cheerleaders brought for the residents. Varsity cheerleading coach Doreen Kobus said the team really enjoys doing community service. “They feel good knowing they are making others feel good,” she said. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4023 Mon, 26 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Throughout the middle school, artists are painting, drawing, and decorating for the holidays. It’s the perfect way to be creative and festive at the same time! The Middle School Art Club has been busy painting holiday scenes on the windows in the corridor outside Ms. DeFeo’s room. If you can’t make it to see the holiday windows in the city, don’t worry, these windows are just perfect! The faculty is getting into the spirit too and decorating their doors for the season. Showing off their own creativity to their students and peers, they also have an ulterior motive. Middle School Principal and District Art Chairperson, H. Thomas Hogan, has promised the staff member with the most creative door, his parking space for two weeks. Although the competition is fierce, do the competitor’s realize that Mr. Hogan does not have his own parking space? Be sure to check out the windows and doors in the middle school … they are all beautiful! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4025 Mon, 26 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Tyler Fallon has been named the Class of 2012 Valedictorian. Tyler is a National Merit Commended Scholar and the recipient of an abundance of academic awards from Outstanding Achievement in Math, Chemistry, Physics, Social Studies, Spanish, English, and European History to the William Hawthorne Award for Excellence in American History. He is a member of the National Honor Society, National Society of High School Scholars, and the Foreign Language Honor Society in Spanish. He has pursued the most demanding academic program offered at Locust Valley High School including Honors, Advanced Placement, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. An AP Scholar with Distinction, Tyler earned a perfect score on five AP exams. Tyler has gone above and beyond what is required of an IB Diploma candidate by taking four of the most challenging Higher Level (HL) IB classes offered, as only three HL courses are required. He has also taken eight IB classes when only six are required for the IB Diploma. Tyler is the Co-Editor-in Chief of the high school’s award-winning newspaper, The Spectrum. He founded the JV Quiz Bowl Team, and this year he is Captain of the Senior Quiz Bowl Team. He is also Captain of Science Olympiads, an integral member of Mathletes, Mock Trial and the Engineering Club. Tyler is a Scholar Athlete and a on the Varsity Football team. Congratulations, Tyler on this incredible achievement! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4019 Fri, 23 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT The high school literary magazine, Perspective, has been awarded the 2011 Gold Overall Award for Most Improved by the Empire State School Press Association. Additionally, junior Samantha Prosser has been awarded the 2011 Gold Overall Award for Originality. Congratulations to the Perspective staff and advisor Dave Coonan! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4020 Fri, 23 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT A very important IB Alumni Night will be held on Thursday, January 5th from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Mini-Theater. The presentation will feature graduates of the IB Diploma Program, ranging from the first IB graduating class to the most recent graduates. Attendees can hear firsthand how this program has impacted not only their college experience, but ther lives beyond college. We hope to see you all on January 5th! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4013 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Collecting for a cause is commonplace throughout LVCSD. But one of those causes is closer to home than most. The Matthew Fetzer Toy Drive, an annual event held in each of our schools, is in honor of Matthew, a former student who lost his battle with cancer when he was a student at Bayville Intermediate School. Matthew’s family donates toys to children who have to spend the holidays in the hospital. It was Matthew’s dream to collect toys for sick children after his recovery. Although Matthew did not have the opportunity to carry out his dream, The Fetzer family does it in his honor. And every year, the LVCSD community joins in, donating hundreds of brand new toys. The student councils at each school organized toy drives, filling up boxes in their classrooms, hallways, and cafeterias. Mr. and Mrs. Fetzer told the students how grateful they are for the donations and reminded them of the smiles they are putting on other children’s faces. The entire district is wishing a happy holiday season to all those children who can’t spend the holidays at home with their families. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4015 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Hannah Milnes has been named the Class of 2012 Salutatorian. Hannah, a National Merit semifinalist, is an IB Diploma Candidate, Hannah achieved perfect scores on both the Critical Reading and Writing sections of the SAT I and earned a near perfect 780 on the SAT Subject Test in Literature. She is the Vice President of French Honor Society, a member of the National Honor Society and the Tri-M Music Honor Society. Hannah is also an AP Scholar, a scholar-athlete, and Captain of the Varsity Tennis team. She is also the secretary of the IB Leadership Club and Captain of the Quiz Bowl Team. Hannah works extremely hard as the Co-Editor-in-Chief of The Spectrum, our award-winning high school newspaper, has been a member of either the orchestra or chorus for all four years of high school, is a member of the Chamber Choir & Chamber Orchestra, and has had starring roles in the last two spring musicals. Outside of school, she volunteers to sing in the choir at St. John’s Church and is an avid horseback rider. During the summer, she works as a lifeguard/swim instructor at a summer camp for handicapped children. Congratulation on this amazing achievement, Hannah! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=4018 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Throughout the school district, teachers, assistants, support staff, and more are offering more than just classroom lessons to teach our students. Members of the LVSEA are teaching by example. This holiday season, as they have done for many years, this altruistic group organized a gift collection for local families in need. While the staff members donated clothing, toys, stuffed animals, and more, they had no idea who was getting the gifts. They were given wish lists with clothing sizes and all, and they sprang into action. Faculty rooms were filled with beautifully wrapped gifts that will brighten the holidays for many children in the district who otherwise would have gone without. School psychologists were the only ones who knew the identities of the recipients and will deliver the gifts to the parents, who will then be able to use the resources they have for other much needed items. Kudos to the LVSEA for making the effort to give selflessly and ensure that the holidays are happy for all! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3985 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Whether it was at the elementary school or the high school, winter concerts were filled with beautiful music from string players, band members, and singers alike. The tremendous amount of dedication from the students and staff was apparent as holiday favorites and classics kept audience members tapping their feet and bopping their heads in time with the music. Click Here to View Winter Concert Slideshow http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3977 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT 800x600 Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} Dear Senior Parents, Do you remember your son or daughter’s first day of school? It may seem like yesterday, but in just months your student will be graduating. How do you express just what this time together has meant to you? How about purchasing a recognition ad in the yearbook? It is a great way to say “I love you and I’m proud of you” as well as share favorite childhood photos and memories. Yearbook ads are on sale now. This is a unique opportunity to send a message which will bring a smile to your student’s face over and over throughout the years. In addition, recognition ads are a fundraiser for the yearbook program at our school. Through your support we can continue to produce a book students love while keeping the cost affordable. Our school is working with Jostens, our yearbook provider, on the recognition ad program. For your convenience, there two ways to purchase your ad: 1. Go online to Jostensadservice.com to create and purchase your ad 2. Complete the enclosed order form and mail it with your photos to: Jostens Ad Service PO Box 172465 Denver, Colorado 80217 Don’t miss this opportunity to show your student how proud you are. Order your ad today! Sincerely, The Yearbook Staff http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3946 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT One of Locust Valley’s very own teachers has been honored by having an entire chapter of a book devoted to her. Karen Kriesberg, a teacher at Locust Valley Elementary School, was the subject of a chapter in a book by Bank Street professor Sal Vascellaro, entitled Out of the Classroom and into the World. In his book, the author illustrates how three of his former students, one being Karen Kriesberg, transformed their classrooms through field trip curricula, opening their children’s hearts and minds as they discovered their world. He shows how—in order to pursue these studies in depth—reading, writing, science, mathematics, map and model making, and the arts are seamlessly woven throughout. Ms. Kriesberg’s expert teaching strategies and development of a unique Native American studies curriculum are presented in the book, written by her former professor and thesis advisor. Her curriculum focuses on honoring all children and their backgrounds, but uses Native American Culture, and her work with the Shinnecock Reservation, as the focus. Professor Vascellaro quotes Ms. Kriesberg as saying, “You have to be passionate about what you are doing and have to believe in it for it to take shape. You get that from experience. And you need the passion to be a teacher.” Locust Valley is lucky to have such an experienced, passionate teacher, and congratulates Ms. Kriesberg on being recognized for her excellence! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3947 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Section VIII Awards Fall 2011 First Name Last Name Grade Sport Award Kevin Jania 12 Boys Cross Country All-Division Greg Caso 10 Boys Cross Country All-Division Brad Conn 12 Boys Soccer All-County Austin Carbone 12 Boys Soccer All-Conference Brandon Carbone 12 Boys Soccer All-Conference Niklas Helmick 12 Boys Soccer Scholar Athlete Bairre Reilly 11 Field Hockey All-State Bairre Reilly 11 Field Hockey 2nd Team Newsday All Long Island Bairre Reilly 11 Field Hockey All-County Jessica Craft 12 Field Hockey All-County Honorable Mention Preston Tansill 10 Field Hockey All-County Honorable Mention Emily Dragone 12 Field Hockey Exceptional Senior Marianne Leslie 12 Field Hockey All-Conference Julia Palermo 11 Field Hockey All-Conference Sophia Ronzetti 12 Field Hockey All-League Emily Schlicht 10 Field Hockey Unsung Hero Sharn Sidhu 11 Field Hockey Scholar Athlete Joe Jacobi 12 Football All-County Tom McNamara 12 Football All-County Alex Rawa 12 Football All-County Alex Rawa 12 Football 2nd Team Newsday All Long Island Kevin Rieger 11 Football All-County Chris Appell 12 Football All-Conference Ken Syrett 12 Football All-Conference Robert Bleistein 12 Football All-Conference Maggie Reid 9 Girls Cross Country All-Division Maddie Casalino 9 Girls Cross Country All-Division Melanie Iovino 12 Girls Soccer All-Conference Katrina Cappiello 11 Girls Soccer All-Class Natasha Jahchan 12 Girls Soccer Scholar Athlete Natasha Jahchan 12 NEWS 12 SCHOLAR ATHLETE Nitsa Nastasi 9 Girls Tennis All-Conference Ann Hagner 12 Girls Tennis All-Division Bianca Bernal 12 Girls Tennis All-Division Leibold Mary 10 Girls Volleyball Scholar Athlete Cemaletin Dylan 11 Boys Golf All-Conference Tansill Grant 12 Boys Golf All-Conference Fall 2011 Scholar-Athlete Teams : Field Hockey 93.996, Girls Volleyball 93.844, Girls Soccer 93.625, Football 92.7 Girls Cross Country 92.587, Kickline 92.428, Girls Tennis 92.304 Boys Cross Country 91.946, Cheerleading 91.142, Boys Soccer 90.841 TEAM ACHIEVEMENTS Field Hockey- League III Champions ( First League Title ) Football - Big IV Champions Girls Soccer - Team Sportsmanship Award Nassau County Cross County Coaches Assocation Division IVB Coach of the Year - Bill Willson Nassau County Football Coaches Assocation Conference IV Coach of the Year - Matt McFarland http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3923 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT The families and friends of 106 LVHS students watched proudly as this elite group was inducted into the National Honor Society, an exclusive society that requires excellence in scholarship, service, leadership, and character. The induction ceremony included the traditional candle lighting, reciting of the oath, and signing of the Honor Society book. The 2011-2012 officers, Mitchel Guadagni, Christina Boutros, and Tyler Fallon kept the ceremony running smoothly with the help of faculty advisors Jennifer Masa and Courtney McKay. LVHS Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire and Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund, congratulated the inductees and their families, reminding them of what it took for these students to achieve acceptance into National Honor Society. Congratulations to all of the inductees! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3920 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Check out the latest issue of The Spectrum, Locust Valley High School's award-winning newspaper. Click Here http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3917 Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Members of the LVHS Chamber Singers and Jazz Band kicked off the annual tree lighting festivities in Locust Valley and Bayville, helping to create a fun and festive atmosphere. Despite a slow and steady drizzle of rain in Locust Valley, residents came out for the event, tapping their feet and singing along as the students entertained the crowd. Thanks to the Chamber of Commerce in both towns for inviting our students to be a part of this wonderful event! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3874 Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School has been honored with a prestigious award from New York State. Named a NYSPHSAA Scholar/Athlete Team School of Distinction, the District was presented with a beautiful engraved award that will be displayed in the Wall of Fame. This honor, given to only 20 schools in New York State, is earned by having every single team in a given school year achieve scholar-athlete status. To be named a scholar-athlete team, an entire team must maintain a GPA of 90 or higher. Every LVHS athletic team in the 2010-2011 school year maintained that average. A ceremony was held at Nassau BOCES, at which the award was presented to the District. BOCES Executive Director of Interscholastic Athletics, Todd Heimer presented the award to Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund; Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics, Mark J. Dantuono; and LVHS Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire. “This means that our student athletes are remarkable young men and women who compete extremely well on the field, and give equal attention to academics,” said Mr. Dantuono. “This is an honor achieved by a small percentage of schools and our students should be commended for their dedication to remaining all-around student-athletes.” Congratulations to all the athletes, along with the coaches and teachers who supported them! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3877 Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Cross Country Coach Bill Willson has been named Division IVB Coach of the Year by the Nassau County Cross Country Coaches Association. This is quite a remarkable accomplishment to be considered the “Top Coach” among all the coaches in Section VIII. Mark J. Dantuono, Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics said, “The award is fitting as I admire the dedication Coach Willson displays toward these student-athletes and also to the sport of Cross Country.” Congratulations, Coach Willson on this outstanding recognition! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3882 Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Students and staff at LVI were in a sea of green today as they celebrated National Inclusive Schools Week with “Spirit Day.” The green theme was a simple way to include everyone, show unity through Locust Valley spirit, and to have fun! From Falcons jerseys and tee shirts to green hair ribbons and even some face paint – everyone came together as one! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3837 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT From science and math to art and physical education, students in all Locust Valley schools are focusing on inclusion – in celebration of National Inclusive Schools Week. Physical Education classes are playing volleyball all week long, a sport that encourages inclusion and requires team work. Check back daily for more inclusive activities … http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3838 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School Football Coach Matt McFarland has been selected as Coach of the Year by the Nassau County Football Coaches Association for Conference IV. Coach McFarland was recognized for his team’s outstanding performance during the 2011-2012 football season. The Locust Valley Varsity Football team completed the regular season with a 7-1 record finishing first in the conference and an overall record of 8-2 “We are proud of Coach McFarland, not only for the successful team that he created this year, but more importantly for his dedication to the boys that he coaches,” stated Mark J. Dantuono, Locust Valley Central School District Director of Physical Education, Health, and Athletics. “They played hard as a team and worked hard on and off the field. That stems from Coach McFarland’s leadership skills.” Congratulations to Coach McFarland and the entire Varsity Football team! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3839 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT LV schools, from elementary to high school will be celebrating National Inclusive Schools Week from December 5-9. Every day of the week, in each school building, lessons and activities will focus on overcoming challenges and disabilities, treating those with differences as equals, and learning not to exclude anyone for being different. You can check back here to see stories each day focusing on these important lessons. Click on the links below to see reading lists created by the school librarians, which can help parents and students find books that reinforce the lessons being taught throughout the week … and beyond. Parents can also ask their children about the lessons they had in their schools each day in order to spark conversation at home. HS Student Reading List HS Parent Reading List MS Reading List LVE Reading List BI Reading List BP Reading List http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3787 Fri, 02 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Residents may have noticed emergency repairs recently being made on the grounds of our Middle School/High School complex. The reason is that the septic pools, which are more than 50 years old, became clogged, began to malfunction and needed to be repaired immediately. Initially, the job was projected to cost more than $2.5 million. However, by researching less costly options to handle the emergency repair, the District found a way to complete the project for approximately $500,000 – saving close to $2 million in unanticipated expenses and avoiding the need to go to taxpayers for the funding. The much costlier $2.5 million option included hooking up to the county sewer line. In addition to the significant expense, implementing this option would have required a lengthy approval process with the State Education Department which would have delayed the immediately needed remediation for many months. Instead, the District chose a less costly and more expeditious solution. The malfunctioning septic pools are in the process of being pumped, cleaned, and repaired. Additional pools are in the process of being installed. Fortunately, the project is being paid for to a large extent from the Repair Reserve which was created to pay for unanticipated, emergency repairs such as this one. Consequently, there will not be any future impact to taxpayers. The entire project is expected to be complete by the end of December. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3801 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Middle School/High School Holiday Book Fair will be held in the High School library Dec. 5-9 during school hours. In conjunction with National Inclusive Schools Week, the selection of books for sale will include those about differences, acceptance, and overcoming challenges. Stop by the library to pick up a good book to read over the holidays! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3750 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS newspaper The Spectrum, has once again earned several awards from the Empire State School Press Association (ESSPA). Awards won: Silver for all of the editions of The Spectrum for the 2010-2011school year. Honorable mention for the Editorial staff for the editorial “Removal of Midterm Week Threatens Student Success.” Silver in the Picture Layout category to layout staff for Spirit Week picture layout Bronze to Senior Petey Barell in the Entertainment/Review Portfolio category Congratulations to the entire Spectrum staff on producing an outstanding, award-winning newspaper – year after year! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3751 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT Bayville and Locust Valley elementary students enjoyed a very educational and interesting visit from book illustrator and author Paul O. Zelinsky. The students had not only read many of his books, but also created their own projects inspired by his stories. At AMP and LVI, students participated in a Creativity Challenge, in which they built candy houses and castles from recycled materials, representing the fairy tale style of many of Mr. Zelinsky’s books. In Bayville, students also participated in an art enrichment project by painting a mural, and then had their photograph taken with the author in front of the mural. Additionally, students had the opportunity to have their own copies of the books signed by the author. Special thanks to all of the elementary school librarians as well as the LVEPC and BPTA for organizing this special event, which enriched the curriculum in so many ways. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3752 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS AIDS Awareness Club works diligently to bring awareness of this important issue to the students and staff. In recognition of AIDS Awareness Day on Thursday, December 1st, the group created banners, signs, and a giant red ribbon for the student population to sign. The red ribbon is the international symbol for aids awareness. These items were all hung in the high school cafeteria, along with posters citing statistics about HIV and AIDS. Throughout the year, the club hold fundraisers, and last year donated more than $1,500 to AIDS research. Great job! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3758 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT As part of an on-going anti-bullying effort, ten eighth graders recently attended Middle School Tolerance Day to hear inspiring stories from their peers on overcoming intolerance and implementing positive programs. Attending this important seminar at Barry Tech BOCES in Westbury, were Franco D’Auria-Gupta, Michael Shearer, William Shearer, James Babinski, Shanaz Sanjana, Natalie DiLascio, Julianne Larkin, Magnus Carlstrom, Zachary Aristei, and Gabby Berritto. These students listened to three young anti-bullying activists who shared inspiring stories of how they overcame intolerance and implemented various programs in their own schools and beyond. The focus of these programs is to empower victims of bullying. The students also met with middle school students from across Nassau County in break-out sessions, to brainstorm ideas for creating schools in which every student would feel safe and secure. These eighth graders are now Locust Valley’s “Ambassadors of Tolerance” and will disseminate the important lessons they learned to students in our own school. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3677 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Student Councils at BI and LVI each held very successful food drives for the holiday. BI students collected enough food to feed at least 22 families an entire Thanksgiving dinner, and LVI students collected 24 bags full of Thanksgiving fixings. The councils’ Thanksgiving food drives brought out the best in our generous community. Student Council members sorted through the many boxes of donated food to create meals that would provide everything from soup to nuts for families in need. Great Job! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3678 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Students in Bayville and Locust Valley are grateful for many things, including the wonderful Thanksgiving Feasts they enjoyed with their classmates. They are especially thankful to the parents, teachers, staff and volunteer high school students for preparing and serving delicious traditional foods for the children to share together. The feasts were not only an opportunity to celebrate together, but to learn about the history of this American holiday. Happy Thanksgiving to the entire community! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3688 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT A new and innovative program at LVHS is just the answer for students with questions about a lesson, or those looking to delve deeper into a topic. The Academic Center is a place where any student can go during lunch or study hall to get extra help from a high school teacher in any subject. The center is staffed every period of the day with teachers from each of the core academic areas. “This is a way for students to get one-on-one help from one of our very own teachers,” explained High School Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire. “Sometimes that help can mean a world of difference in a student’s success.” Students can bring homework they are having difficulty with, class work they don’t feel comfortable with, or study notes for an exam. The response to the program has been incredible, with the center constantly abuzz with learning! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3667 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT At Bayville Intermediate School, incorporating fun into the physical education curriculum is essential, and when the curriculum includes dance, making it fun is easy! Students, staff, and parents look forward to the annual Hoe Down, which is the culmination of the dance portion of physical education. Dressed in flannel shirts and straw hats, and wearing great big smiles, the entire school shows off their square dance skills as a fun way to kick off the Thanksgiving season. Special thanks to Physical Education teachers Carlyn Gordon and Frank Kollias for organizing the event and to all the parents who took time out their day to attend this special event. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3673 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Senior Courtney Boyd has signed a letter of intent to play Lacrosse at the University of Louisville. The university has given her an athletic scholarship. Courtney is a multiple sport athlete for Locust Valley, in addition to Lacrosse, she plays tennis and soccer. Congratulations Courtney, and good luck at the University of Louisville! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3634 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Dear Parent/Guardian, As you may know, Locust Valley High School’s International Baccalaureate (IB) program offers our students wonderful opportunities to challenge themselves both inside and outside of the classroom. Currently, over 75 % of our 11th and 12th grade students participate in taking one or more IB courses and we hope to increase that percentage. With the course selection process beginning within the next few weeks, it is important that you and your child be aware of how the IB Diploma Program and individual IB course offerings can expand your child’s academic life and readiness for college. Mr. Buonaspina, LVHS IB Coordinator, will be conducting three IB information sessions on Thursday November 17th, one in the morning, one after school and one in the evening. Our hope is that you and/or your child will be able to attend one of these sessions. The morning session is designed for parents. The afterschool session is designed for current 9th, 10th and 11th grade students. The evening session is ideal for both parent and child to attend. All sessions will run for approximately one hour and a half. The following times and locations have been established: Thursday, November 17th at 8:30 AM (in the Mini-Theatre) - Parents Thursday, November 17th at 3:00 PM (in the Mini-Theatre) - Students Thursday, November 17th at 7:00 PM (in the Mini-Theatre) – Parents & Students We are also fortunate to have several of our current IB students available at these information sessions to assist in these presentations and to answer additional questions you may have about this program. We hope that you are able to attend one of the scheduled times. If you have any additional questions or concerns, Mr. Buonaspina can be reached at (516) 277-5157 or at rbuonaspina@lvcsd.k12.ny.us. Thank you for your interest and cooperation. Sincerely, Kieran J. McGuire, Ed.D. . Principal, LVHS kmcguire@lvcsd.k12.ny.us 277-5105 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3613 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT The school community thanked the Board of Education at its November meeting for all it does for the school district. Students, staff, and parents surprised the Board by bringing gifts, cards made by students, goodies baked by the culinary club, and paintings created by student artists especially for the Board. Gifts came from each of the schools’ student populations, the Coordinated Parent Council, The LVSEA and the LVAA. Poems, heartfelt speeches, and some laughter let the Board members, all of whom volunteer for the job which provides no compensation, know that their dedication and hard work is appreciated by all. Thank you to the Locust Valley Board of Education for caring enough to make a difference! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3618 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Senior Chris Appell, a three season varsity athlete in football, basketball and lacrosse has signed a letter of intent to play Lacrosse at Lehigh University. Chris has been highly recruited as a Division I Lacrosse player and we wish him much success at Lehigh! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3582 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the following students who have been accepted to participate in the 2012 All-County Music Festival. Rehearsals and performances for the various groups will be held from January 4-15. Acceptance to the All-County Music Festival is a testament to the hard work and dedication of these fine young musicians! Bayville Intermediate School Matthew Guerra- Band Juliana Criblez -Chorus Jordan Dyer -Chorus Kaitlin Sikorski -Chorus Adriana Trama -Chorus Annalisa Zwirba -Chorus Hanna Guglielmo -Orchestra Locust Valley Intermediate School Sarah Lubow -Band Sophia Alesi -Chorus Emily Gresalfi -Chorus Joyce Kim -Chorus Samantha Maneri -Chorus Erin Pederson -Chorus Catherine Glynn -Orchestra Nicholas Poll -Orchestra Locust Valley Middle School Elisabeth Baumann -Band Melanie Heney -Band Jessie Mae Maiden -Band Justin Manzi -Band Matthew Boutros -Chorus Samantha Gangemi -Chorus Sydney Hochberg -Chorus Ravi Prasad -Chorus Rebecca Lewis -Orchestra Caroline Martocci -Orchestra Christopher Vaughan -Orchestra Locust Valley High School Gregory Caso -Band Christina Guerra -Band Chris Tasso -Band Julia Rivadeneira -Chorus Christina Boutros -Mixed Chorus Hannah Milnes -Mixed Chorus Ernest Schieferstein -Mixed Chorus Victoria Sedlak -Mixed Chorus Mary Leibold -Orchestra Courtney Miller -Orchestra Andrew Wee -Orchestra Cameron Carella - Jazz Band http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3585 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT View the latest newsletter online now. Click Here http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3592 Sun, 13 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Sometimes puppets can be the best messengers when it comes to teaching children about sensitive topics. “Ricky” and “JoAnn”, two puppets from the Epilepsy Foundation of Long Island’s Kids on the Block troupe were the perfect teachers when it came time to increase awareness of Epilepsy at Bayville Intermediate School. The two puppets performed a short skit, in which “Ricky” acted as though he was having a seizure – a typical Epilepsy symptom. Following the skit, BI students had the opportunity to ask “Ricky” questions about what it was like to have Epilepsy. The puppets also taught the group what to do if someone they are with has a seizure. School Psychologist Scott Gallagher said using puppets can help the students to feel more comfortable asking sensitive questions, which in turn helps them get more answers. According to The Kids On The Block, Inc., learning starts when the show begins and the program is beneficial because it increases students’ disability awareness at the same time that it de-stigmatizes epilepsy and the individuals that have it. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3499 Wed, 09 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Learning about Native Americans was fun and games for fourth graders at Bayville Intermediate School. In conjunction with the curriculum, which includes a unit on Native Americans, a special program was brought in that incorporated authentic Native American tools, clothing, and games. The fourth-graders learned that Native American children their age used to play games in school as a way of learning. However, they discovered that children also had many responsibilities, such as carving toys, fishing, and teaching their younger siblings. Journeys into American Indian Territory, the group that presented facts and artifacts to the students, brought many actual items such as knives, a mini Iroquois longhouse, a fishing net, a rawhide, a buckskin, and more. The lesson focused on Native American traditions and life from early times through the present. District Social Studies Chairperson David J. Ethe said bringing in such a program helps the students relate to the lesson. “Playing the games, touching the artifacts, and viewing replicas brings the lesson to life, which in turn will help them better appreciate and understand their lives during these periods in history.” The unit in Native Americans continues into fifth grade and throughout middle school, making this presentation a wonderful part of their lesson. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3500 Wed, 09 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Voted as class officers by their fellow classmates, Locust Valley Intermediate and Bayville Intermediate Schools’ 2011 Student Government representatives were inducted into office at official ceremonies. Students took an oath, promising to fulfill their responsibilities as elected officials, to attend meetings, and to perform community service. The Student Government performs many important community service acts, some of which raise funds for local charities, in turn helping the very communities they live in. Some of these efforts include coat drives, food drives, and raising money to support a guide dog. Superintendent Dr. Anna F Hunderfund attended the ceremonies and told the students how proud she is of their civic commitment. Dr. Hunderfund also administered the oath that inductees took. Congratulations to all the newly elected officials! We know you will serve your fellow students well! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3506 Wed, 09 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT REMINDER-All Schools are closed Tuesday, November 8th (Election Day) and Friday, November 11th (Veterans Day) http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3493 Fri, 04 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Students at Bayville Primary and Ann MacArthur Primary School learned everything there is to know about fire safety during Fire Prevention Week. The Bayville Fire Department visited BP, while AMP students went to the Locust Valley Fire Department. The firefighters taught the children to “stop, drop, and roll”, to call 911, and much more. Although many of the students already knew what to do, the firefighters emphasized that it is important to remind children (and adults) of these important safety tips. Students had the opportunity to go inside a fire truck, to see all the equipment fire fighters use, and even to sit in the seats that firefighters ride in on the way to a call. Bayville Primary School Assistant Principal Dorothy McManus said making the program fun reinforces the message for these young students. “They will remember sitting in the big fire truck, and will therefore be more likely to remember the safety tips from the presentation.” Special thanks to the Locust Valley and Bayville Fire Departments for taking the time to make this wonderful presentation! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3491 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Cross Country team members Maggie Reid and Gregory Caso have qualified to compete at the Nassau County Cross Country Championships this Saturday November 5th at Bethpage State Park. Greg’s race will begin at approximately 1:45 p.m. and Maggie’s will begin at about 2:15 p.m. This is a wonderful accomplishment for these outstanding student-athletes. Good luck to Maggie and Greg, and to Coach Rogin and Coach Willson!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3492 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT Extra-curricular activities are an important part of a student’s school career. Not only do these activities help to enrich children’s lives, but college applications become more attractive when they are filled with music, sports, clubs, and community service. To encourage students to join these clubs, and help them decide which ones are best suited to their likes and their skills, the middle and high school held fairs to showcase the options. With samples of the work they create, such as the high school literary magazine Perspective, and the middle school newspaper, The Voice, students were able to see exactly what they would do by joining. Club members and faculty advisors were on-hand to answer questions as well. The best part of joining is the fun and friendships! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3442 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Neither rain, nor sleet, nor snow could dampen the spirits of the Locust Valley Falcons and their fans during Homecoming on Saturday, October 29. Cheerleaders and Kickline members performed prior to the game, the Homecoming King and Queen were announced, and senior football players and cheerleaders honored their parents. During the homecoming festivities, students raised funds for charities, proving once again, that no matter what, Locust Valley students are always doing for others. The bleachers at the football game looked like a sea of green, the Falcon fans showing their loyalty to their team. The Falcons remain in first place in the conference and will move forward to the playoffs this Saturday, November 5 at 5:30 p.m. at Centre Island. Special thanks to Falcon Pride for providing a delicious barbecue and braving the weather to make sure the Falcon fans were well fed! Go Falcons! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3444 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Students in Locust Valley and Bayville showed off their creativity when they attended Halloween events in costumes that were frightening, funny, and intricate! Primary School students marched in their annual parade at both Ann MacArthur Primary School and Bayville Primary School. Goblins and ghosts from the intermediate schools enjoyed games and treats at the BI Halloween Howl and the LVI Halloween Hullabaloo. All of the events offered the opportunity for students and parents to use their art abilities, imaginations, and to test their skills at various Halloween themed games. Special thanks to the Locust Valley Parent Council and the Bayville PTA for providing some Halloween fun and treats in a safe environment! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3448 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Jesters presented an outstanding performance of Thornton Wilder’s masterpiece “Our Town” this past weekend. The drama about two ordinary families living in adjacent houses in sleepy Grover's Corners, N.H. in the early years of the 20th century has been described by many as the Great American Play. The Jesters' performance of this classic was enjoyed by the entire audience. At times both heartwarming and heartbreaking, "Our Town" follows the daily lives of these families. Through birth, love, work, marriage, death, and the slow, inevitable passage of time, Wilder reminds us of the eternals of the human condition. As the Stage Manager, Ernest Schieferstein narrated Wilder's immortal tale. Also featured were George White and Hannah Milnes as Dr. and Mrs. Gibbs, Alexander Van Patten and Christina Boutros as Editor and Mrs. Webb, and Teddy Kahn and Emily Parks as George and Emily along with many other LVHS students who brought the townspeople of Grover’s Corners to life. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3452 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Falcons Varsity Football Coach Matt McFarland has been named Coach of the Week by the NY Giants! Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} The Falcons will receive a $1,000 donation from the NFL to be used towards the football program. The Giants selected Coach McFarland based on his continuing commitment towards promoting youth football, developing motivated student-athletes, and his overall community involvement. Coach McFarland will receive a certificate of recognition signed by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and Giants head coach Tom Coughlin, and an in-stadium congratulatory message will be displayed on the giant screen during the Giants game on Sunday, October 30th. The Falcons are currently undefeated heading into the last game of the season against East Rockaway on Saturday, October 29th at 1:30 p.m. at LVHS. Congratulations, Coach McFarland! Click here to go to the NY Giants website to view the announcement. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3416 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT REVISED HOMECOMING SCHEDULE DUE TO WEATHER FORECAST NO PARADE SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2011 THE PARADE HAS BEEN CANCELLED 10:30 a.m. Floats due at High School 11:00-11:15 a.m. Floats are judged 11:20 p.m. “Senior Celebration Day” With Parents (Football Players, Cheerleaders) 12:00 p.m. Half-Time Ceremony in the Gymnasium National Anthem sung by Christina Boutros Kickline Performance Varsity Cheerleading Performance Crowning of the Homecoming Court 9th Grade Prince & Princess 10th Grade Prince & Princess 11th Grade Prince & Princess 12th Grade King & Queen Band Performs Spirit Contest Winner Float Contest Winner 12:00-1:00 p.m. Falcon Pride Barbecue 1:30 p.m. Homecoming Game Kickoff! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3426 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley’s own Albert Chu earned two medals in the 2011 New York State Special Olympics Fall Games. Competing with the Long Island Equestrian Team, Albert earned a silver medal in an extremely complicated obstacle course. He won a bronze medal in Equitation (horsemanship). Congratulations to Albert and the entire Long Island Equestrian Team! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3385 Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Spirit Week is getting everyone pumped up for Homecoming and creating a school-wide feeling of camaraderie. Each day, students and staff dress for the theme, leading up to Locust Valley Green Day on Friday for the pep rally. Monday was Neon Day; Tuesday, Hillbilly Day; Wednesday, Safari Day; Thursday, Spooky Valley Day; and Friday, Go Green Day. The culmination of Spirit Week is Homecoming on Saturday, with a Halloween theme. Be sure to join us for the Falcon Pride barbecue at noon and the Varsity Football game at 1:30 p.m. against East Rockaway. The Falcons head into this last game of the season undefeated! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3386 Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley singers enjoyed a personal concert and master class lesson from Cornell University’s A Capella group, The Touchtones. The all-girls group sang some of their favorite original arrangements, and then taught the eighth-grade chorus and high school concert chorus how to sing those same songs. LVHS graduate (Class of 2008) Samantha Padilla, is a member of the group and organized the visit back to her alma mater. She was impressed with the vocal abilities of the LV groups and told them she was proud to be back. “Besides showing our students that there is music after high school, it sparked enthusiasm in them for this type of singing,” explained William Margiotta, the district’s music chairperson. Some students stayed after class for a chance to talk to the group, or to sing one last solo with them. Learning to blend with each other was a big part of the lesson, as members of The Touchtones gave mini workshops to the class, separated by soprano, alto, tenor and bass. After the workshop, the four groups put their voices together and blended perfectly. The Touchtones encouraged the high school singers to join musical groups in college, telling them it would enrich their college experience. Thank you to the Touchtones for taking time out of their busy schedule to make an impact on LVHS musicians! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3365 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here for Registration Details http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3343 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Bayville Primary students love to read. Why wouldn’t they, when reading at BP is so much fun? Students were treated to an extra-special, or extra-terrestrial, book fair, sponsored by the PTA. Like most book fairs, students browsed the shelves, filling their arms with adventure, humor, non-fiction, and so much more. Waiting for them after they made their selections was a green-faced alien that loves to read! The alien, a.k.a. BP Assistant Principal Dorothy McManus, sat on the floor and had the children share their new books with her. She chose a few and read aloud to a small group, much to their delight. “Reading is an adventure, and what child doesn’t like a little adventure in the middle of the day?” Ms. McManus noted. “ The PTA brought in a wide variety of books to choose from, so there was something to satisfy all kinds of readers.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3349 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Junior student-athlete Bairre Reilly recently made a verbal commitment to Division I University of Maryland, where she will continue her career in Lacrosse. Bairre has been an outstanding student-athlete at Locust Valley High School, as she earned All-County honors in Lacrosse since her freshman year along with being selected as Newsday All-Long Island Second Team. University of Maryland’s Women’s Lacrosse Team has won 10 National Championships since 1982. Congratulations to Bairre, and good luck! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3311 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Middle School students are competing for the opportunity to shave a teacher’s head. All they have to do … is homework. Students in each grade are striving to get their homework done every night. They are double checking that the work is done, reminding their friends to do their homework and in the end, completing a record number of assignments on time – for the chance to win the homework contest and shave the head of one of their teacher’s at the end of the year. They’ve always been motivated by the desire to achieve high grades, however, this year, sixth-seventh-and eighth-grade students are more motivated than usual. The grade that completes the most homework throughout the school year will have the opportunity to shave their teacher’s head at the end of the year. Actually, two teachers have volunteered for the homework contest’s big reward. Dr. Stephen Wolf and Mr. James Rogin will each have their heads shaved by a student in the grade that wins the contest – students will be chosen through a drawing. The contest’s goal is to encourage all the students to complete each and every homework assignment and to enjoy the process. To keep motivation up all year long, each grade has two faculty members that are growing beards based on the percentage of homework assignments done each week. As long as the grade being represented has completed 90 percent or more of their homework each week, the “homework mascot” does not shave his beard. The students enjoy seeing their usually clean shaven teachers, growing beards to support them. When an entire grade dips below the 90 percent level, the “homework mascots” shave and start all over again. “Motivating students with something fun, creates the opportunity for success,” explained Locust Valley Middle School Principal H. Thomas Hogan. “It’s fun for everyone, teachers included and kids are doing their homework – that’s the real prize.” Thanks to all the grades keeping up with their homework, nobody has shaved so far– although beard trimming is allowed, so teachers still appear neat and clean! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3279 Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Varsity and JV Volleyball teams took pink to a new level, raising more than $600 _most of it in just over an hour - for breast cancer research. The team hosted its first annual “Dig Pink” scrimmage, holding a pre-game bake sale which offered all types of homemade pink goodies, from volleyball shaped cookies, to pink cupcakes. Locust Valley students happily lined up to support a good cause. To keep in the spirit of the event and remind attendees of its importance, the teams wore pink shirts, played with pink breast cancer awareness volleyballs, and thanked everyone for their generosity. Due to the success of “Dig Pink”, the teams hope it will grow each year. Plans are already underway to increase fundraising and make an even bigger difference next year! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3261 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Varsity, JV, and MS tennis are cancelled due to the rain today, Friday, October 14th MS Cross Country is also cancelled. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3262 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT All Locust Valley schools will be dismissed ten minutes early on Friday, October 14th. The State Education Department requires that all schools have an emergency dismissal drill at least once each school year, which necessitates this ten-minute early dismissal. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3251 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Please join us for a clinic put on by the Locust Valley High School Girls Lacrosse Players. Our girls have a lot of knowledge to offer and look forward to working with our future Falcons. In an effort to build our program and support our players for their upcoming spring season, t-shirts will be on sale as a fundraiser! Who: Girls Lacrosse Players in grades 2-6 Where: Locust Valley High School Field (the upper field behind the school) When: Saturday, October 15th from 10 a.m. -12 p.m. *RAIN OR SHINE What to bring: ALL equipment; field players should bring a stick, goggles, and a mouth guard. Goalies should bring their stick, helmet, gloves, chest protector, leg pads, shin pads, and a mouth guard. *We will have water and ice on site. We look forward to seeing many new faces and helping the sport of lacrosse grow in our community! Thanks! Coach Hordy, Coach Sumcizk, and Coach Collins http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3252 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Two LVMS students have been named Long Island Young Scholars of Mathematics by the Institute of Creative Problem Solving for Gifted and Talented Students. The eighth-graders, Quin and Jack Ferrante, competed against 700 of the top-ranking students on Long Island and are among only 75 of those students to be recognized with this honor. Jack and Quin are among the top one-tenth of one percent in math for all eighth-graders on Long Island. Criteria included a rigorous entrance exam, nomination, school transcripts, recommendation by the math teacher, and a brief statement written by the student. Jack and Quin are now accepted by the Institute, which is supported by SUNY College at Old Westbury, and will spend 60 hours in class and on related outside projects. They will have the distinct honor and advantage of learning advanced algebra, geometry, and number theory beyond what they would learn in their regular math classes. Selected science topics will also be covered. “This is an outstanding achievement and an incredible opportunity for Jack and Quin,” said Locust Valley Middle School Principal H. Thomas Hogan. “We are extremely proud of them.” Many graduates of the Institute have gone on to win prestigious national and international math, science, and engineering contests. Congratulations to Jack and Quin on this outstanding achievement! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3236 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Senior soccer goalie Bradley Conn earned the recognition of being named conference 8 player of the week by the Nassau County Soccer Coaches Association. Bradley was recognized for his impressive play for the Falcons, allowing only one goal in two conference games. He recorded his first career shutout with eight saves against Friends Academy in a 0 - 0 tie. Congratulations, Bradley! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3242 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT The benefits were numerous – academically, socially, and athletically, when 26 students from Denmark came to Locust Valley High School through an exchange program earlier this month. The students, along with two teachers, participated in in-depth discussions in the high school’s International Baccalaureate program, providing Locust Valley students with a unique perspective, an opportunity for intense discussion, and a lesson in culture that could not be learned from books. The Danish students stayed in the homes of the Locust Valley students, immersing themselves in the American culture, and sharing facts about the cultural differences along the way. “Our students learn about different cultures in their classes. However, next to traveling to a foreign country, meeting people from another country is the best way to learn about how other people live,” explained Dr. Kieran McGuire, Locust Valley High School Principal. Dr. McGuire and International Baccalaureate Coordinator Bob Buonaspina coordinated the exchange program. Locust Valley High School and Danish students worked together on academic projects including a comparative cultural analysis, studying the effects of immigration, multiculturalism, and economic globalization, and dissecting expressions of culture and manners in English and American literature. Both sets of students prepared for the experience by reading works such as The Great Gatsby. The Danish group and their Locust Valley hosts spent a day in New York City visiting the 9-11 Memorial, and seeing a Broadway play that related to their studies. “Seeing these things with their counterparts from Denmark afforded Locust Valley students a unique opportunity to share their perspectives and see those of other students. They will think about the event and the process as they move forward in their studies,” said Dr. McGuire. The visitors also attended their hosts’ football game, dressed in Locust Valley jerseys, and cheered their new friends on to an exciting last-second victory. The roles will be reversed in the spring, when Locust Valley students visit Denmark, where they will attend school for a week with their partners and experience the Danish culture first-hand – an experience that will benefit them greatly. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3225 Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley students are getting a jump-start on the college application process with help from the Locust Valley High School Guidance Department. Almost 150 colleges and universities have already visited LVHS for college fairs or individual college visits and at least 40 schools are scheduled for future visits, with additional schools requesting visits every day. The guidance department is also holding parent information nights throughout the year, specific to each grade level, which focus on the high school curriculum, graduation requirements, student involvement in extracurricular and leadership opportunities, and the college application process. Mini-fairs, which can bring in 20-30 college representatives at a time, give students a chance to collect brochures and ask questions about the school, the admissions process, and the requirements. “It also gives students a face and a name that they can connect with at that school,” explained Locust Valley High School Assistant Principal Rebecca Gottesman. “Communication between students and college representatives is critical in displaying ‘demonstrated interest’ to the colleges our students apply to. With these difficult budgetary times, the colleges take note of students who communicate with them directly when their applications are being reviewed.” Individual college visits are held in a more intimate setting. Only one college representative meets with seniors who are interested in applying to their school. This offers an opportunity for the college representatives who will be reading our students’ applications to develop a vital relationship with our students. Guidance counselors encourage students to research the college prior to the one-on-one meeting and present thoughtful questions. These visits are targeted towards those who already know they are considering that specific school. Evening parent presentations address the specific questions parents and students have at each grade level. They also provide helpful insight that many families may not be aware of, especially since college admissions trends often change from year to year and it is important to be current with this information. “These meetings highlight the academic and extracurricular opportunities available to help our students be competitive for admission to the college of their choice, including the most selective schools in the country,” said Ms. Gottesman. Information on SATs, ACTs, college essays, resumes, campus visits, and interviews are discussed at junior and senior parent meetings. Younger high school students and middle school families are offered guidance on course selection, the importance of participation in extracurricular activities, and more. The slide shows presented at parent meetings, along with details on college fairs, testing, scholarships, and all things guidance related, can be viewed on the district website at http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/our_schools/guidance_HS. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3203 Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT The LV Falcons lined up against the Roosevelt Rough Riders in a battle of the "undefeateds." The game was played at the perfect venue, Hofstra University, home of the Nassau County Football Championships. The game was a battle of wills. It was evident that the Falcons of LV wanted it more, as they persevered in the last minutes, orchestrating an unbelievable winning, scoring drive. The scoring drive concluded with Joe Jacobi connecting with Tom Nastasi for a 2-yard-touchdown strike with :03 remaining to break a 12-12 tie. Matt Vezza's extra point gave LV a 19-12 lead. Jacobi was 14 for 22 on the day for 161 yards and 3 TDs. Alex Rawa and Tom McNamara each had touchdown catches in the game. Locust Valley (5-0) takes on West Hempstead (5-0) October 15th at Fred Smith Field at 2:00 p.m. Congratulations to the players and coaches! See the winning touchdown as it happened in the photos below. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3207 Fri, 07 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Today, Thursday, October 6th, our Varsity Football Team will be playing Roosevelt HS at Hofstra University beginning at 4:30 p.m. Roosevelt is the home team and is issuing an admission fee of $2.00 per adult and $1.00 per student. If you plan on attending, please plan to pay this admission fee. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3201 Thu, 06 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT The LV Falcons Field Hockey Team clinched the title of League 3 Champions with a big 6-0 win over Sewanhaka The Falcons started strong with a quick goal by Preston Tansill three minutes into the first half. Two minutes later Tansill scored again off a feed from Julia Palermo. The team stayed strong with Emily Dragone and Emily Schlicht creating strong defensive blocks. Jessica Craft blasted in a shot scoring the third of the game and Bairre Reilly finished the half scoring the fourth goal off of another feed from Palermo. The offense charge was persistent do to the efforts of Sophia Ronzetti and midfielders Jesse Spear, Amanda Maher and Marianne Leslie. Momentum carried into the second half when Julia Palermo scored off a feed from Preston Tansill. Minutes later Palermo returned the favor on an Offensive Corner when she sent a feed back over to Tansill, who quickly netted the ball. Freshman Gaby DeAngelis recorded her first shutout of the season with two strong saves. Overall, this win was a complete team effort and showcased the talents of not only the seasoned Varsity players, but also a number of Varsity newcomers: Juniors Colleen McConie, Meghan Hughes, Lauren Sidor, Olivia Simas and Sharn Sidhu, as well as Freshmen Briana Mahoney and Lydia Volpe. Congratulations to the players and the coaches on this amazing achievement! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3109 Thu, 06 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Registration for the PSAT runs from September 19th through October 7th. Specific information regarding PSAT registration can be found here: Letter to tenth graders and families Letter to eleventh graders and families http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3117 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Central School District, in conjunction with Falcon Pride, seeks photos and biographical information regarding Locust Valley High School alumni who played college-level sports. As part of our High School’s new Wall of Fame, all Locust Valley High School athletes who continued their athletic careers in college will be recognized. Submissions should include name, LVHS graduation year, college or university attended, sport played, and all honors and recognitions achieved, at the high school and collegiate levels. Please be sure to also provide a photo of the athlete. All submissions should be sent as soon as possible to Mark Dantuono, LVCSD Director of Physical Education, Health, and Athletics at mdantuono@lvcsd.k12.ny.us or mailed to Mr. Dantuono at Locust Valley High School, 99 Horse Hollow Road, Locust Valley, NY 11560. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2981 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Can't make it to the game? You can view the Varsity Volleyball game on Thursday, October 6th at 4:30 p.m. can be viewed live on MSG Varsity! Click here for full details! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3197 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Middle School Intramurals are canceled today, Monday, October 3rd due to the MS Activity Fair. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3167 Mon, 03 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School students are bucking national and state trends by improving their SAT scores---and, that is a very good thing! At the same time that the SAT scores were falling across New York State and across our country, the mean SAT score at LVHS increased in every one of the aptitude test’s three areas – reading, math, and writing. In reading alone, Locust Valley students saw an increase in their scores of 7% during the past three years. The same is true for math and writing, with Locust Valley students increasing 4% in math and 6% in writing. There are a number of reasons for LVHS student achievement increases on these important tests. One of the most important was our District's recognition of the importance of student preparation for and completion of the PSAT as being invaluable practice for the SAT. Free PSAT preparation courses, before and after school, provide our students with the opportunity to work with Locust Valley teachers on the test taking skills which are needed for the PSAT and eventually for the SAT. In addition as early as middle school, our students are given SAT math problems of the day and SAT words of the day. This and other curriculum alignment improvements have helped students to become familiar with testing style, vocabulary, and other test taking skills at an earlier age than was previously the case. From all the data, it appears that this early preparation is clearly paying off! Click on the image below to view a chart comparing Locust Valley scores to national and statewide scores. Click here to view the Newsday article on this topic. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3171 Mon, 03 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT LVHS is proud to announce that two students have been named Commended Students in the 2012 National Merit Scholarship Program. Seniors Tyler Fallon and Natasha Jahchan received this honor for their top performance on the PSAT /NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Qualifying Test) in 2010, during their Junior year. More than one million students took the PSAT in 2010, and Natasha and Tyler placed in the top five percent of those students. “The young men and women being named Commended Students have demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success,” stated a spokesperson for the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). “These students represent a valuable national resource; recognizing their accomplishments, as well as the key role their schools play in their academic development, is vital to the advancement of educational excellence in our nation.” LVHS Senior Hannah Milnes was named a National Merit Semifinalist earlier this month. The high school has had students honored by the NMSC for several years, with some going on to become finalists and receiving scholarships. Congratulations to Tyler and Natasha on this outstanding achievement! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3140 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Middle School's new intra-scholastic sports program was featured in Newsday. Click here to read the story. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3142 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Nick West's run from 2 yards out with 8 minutes left in the 4th quarter tied the score at 12 with 8 minutes left. Bradley Conn converted the extra point to give Locust Valley a 13-12 lead. Chris Appellscored ona 22 yard run on the first drive of the 2nd half to close Seaford's lead to 12-6. The Falcons are back in action next week against Island Trees. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3120 Sat, 24 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Elementary School Parents Council provided fun, food, and friendship during the Family Picnic and Bookfair. Students and their families enjoyed getting to know each other while eating snacks, freeze-dancing, and so much more! Held outside at Ann MacArthur Primary School, the fair was a fabulous kick-off to the 2011-2012 school year. The picnic, which included a DJ, inflatables, and face-painting, also focused on reading. Inside the school, was a bountiful book fair, with titles for all ages. It was no surprise that Locust Valley students flocked to the books and some walked away with their arms full – ready for a season of reading! Thanks to the LVEPC Parents Council for providing this enjoyable evening! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3110 Fri, 23 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT LVHS student Gabrielle Yeager has earned an Award of Merit in the Long Island Arts Alliance Scholar-Artist Program. Gabrielle received this honor after submitting two photographs taken in Sicily, Italy. The contest was designed to recognize student artists and acknowledge “the best-of-the-best” on Long Island. The Scholar-Artist program mirrors the Scholar-Athlete programs, requiring exceptional talent along with equally exceptional academics. High school seniors are nominated by their school districts, and ten each from Nassau and Suffolk receive the program’s highest honor. Gabrielle was nominated by LVHS art teacher, Donna Chaplin. Gabby was chosen as a student that was exceptionally accomplished in her field (photography) and also held an unweighted GPA of 90 or above. Because of her artistic talent and exceptional scholarship, she was one of only 40 students on Long Island to receive an Award of Merit. Congratulations to Gabrielle and to Ms. Chaplin on this outstanding achievement! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3111 Fri, 23 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Three Locust Valley students have received honors in the New York State Junior Federal Duck Stamp Contest. LVHS student Julia Ryan won third place in all of New York State in the tenth through twelfth grade category. Middle School students Kristina Lollo and Gabriella Schmitz received an honorable mention in fourth through sixth-grade category. The three girls are students in Mrs. DeFeo’s art classes and produced impressive depictions of ducks for the contest. Congratulations to the students on this wonderful accomplishment! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3112 Fri, 23 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Due the weather, the following games have been cancelled/rescheduled: JV girls tennis match at home vs. Manhasset move to 10/14 JV Boys soccer game home at 4:30 vs. Wheatley moved to Monday 10/3 JV field hockey game today at home vs. Manhasset moved to 10/6 Varsity field hockey game today at Manhasset moved to 10/6 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3113 Fri, 23 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT ‘Fair and Reasonable’ Settlement Helps District Respond to Financial Challenges The Board of Education of the Locust Valley CSD and the Locust Valley School Employees Association (LVSEA) have approved a new four-year contract to replace the agreement that expired at the end of June 2010. The new contract will be in force through June 30, 2014, and retroactively includes the 2010-11 school year. “We are all aware of the financial challenges and uncertainties that school districts and taxpayers continue to face, so I want to thank our teaching professionals for working with us to craft an agreement both parties believe is fair and reasonable,” said Mr. Jack Dolce, President of the Board of Education. “In the end, we have settled upon an agreement that helps the district respond in a better way to the challenges of decreasing revenues, new legislation limiting the tax levy increases, and ongoing taxpayer concerns over the level of school taxes.” During the life of the four-year agreement, top paid teachers will average an annual base salary increase of less than 1%. Specifically, there is no increase in the salary schedule (base compensation) in the first two years of the agreement, which includes last year (2010-11), and the current school year. The increases in the salary schedule for 2012-13 and 2013-14 average slightly less than 2% in each year. Teachers who were employed in 2010-11 and this year will receive a one-time lump sum $2,000 payment in December 2011, which will not be a part of the salary schedule and therefore, will not be a recurring expense. Many teachers are also compensated through movement on the salary schedule due to longevity (steps/increment) and credits earned from approved institutions of learning (lanes). In 2011-12 the agreement specifies no movement on this schedule. Additionally, caps and other limitations on increments and lanes specific to movement on the schedule in subsequent years will produce cost savings to the district over prior contracts. “The teacher members of the LVSEA were happy to collaborate with the district in this agreement,” said Gaby Harrington, President of the LVSEA. “It provides fair compensation and at the same time, realizes cost-saving concessions that we hope will help to preserve the quality of the instructional programs in the district.” Additional savings will be realized through an increase in health insurance premiums paid by teaching staff, which will rise from 16% to 18% by the end of the contract, and a freeze on coaching salaries and activity sponsorships. The agreement also includes a retirement incentive for 2011-12 that will not go into effect unless at least 10 retirees notify the district by December that they will retire. This, too, would create additional savings for the district. The contract also contains language that encourages re-visitation of its terms and conditions if financial circumstances warrant this action. “We believe this is a fundamentally sound agreement, but we are mindful of ongoing financial challenges that should continue to promote good dialogue in the interest of our students and taxpayers,” said Mr. Dolce. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3106 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT JV Girls Tennis Match scheduled for today, Tuesday, September 20th, has been rescheduled for October 13, 2011 due to rain http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3072 Tue, 20 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Reminder to all seniors that the senior photo on the hill will be taken Friday, September 16th at 2:39 p.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3042 Fri, 16 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School senior Hannah Milnes has been named a semifinalist in the National Merit Scholarship Competition. She is now eligible to qualify as a National Merit Finalist. Hannah earned this outstanding national recognition from the College Board for her exceptional achievements on the PSAT in October, 2010. Based on student achievement and sponsored annually by the College Board, the ability to earn this designation is an honor afforded to only one percent of the more than 1.5 million students who achieve the highest scores on the PSATs, which are taken by juniors across the country every year. In addition, the College Board shares the names of the students who earn these distinctions with colleges and universities. Advancing to National Merit Finalist status will afford Hannah the opportunity to qualify for more than $36 million in National Merit Scholarships, which will be announced in February, 2012. Last year, Hannah’s sister Mary Leah Milnes was chosen as a National Merit Scholar. She and Emma debeer Charno were semifinalists who ultimately went on to receive scholarships. Congratulations to Hannah for distinguishing herself in such an outstanding manner and continuing our tradition of excellence! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3041 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Lady Falcons won their home opener in an exciting 1-0 sudden death overtime. The offensive charge was led by Juniors Bairre Reilly and Julia Palermo along with Senior Sophia Ronzetti. The midfield transition was led by Senior Captain Jessica Craft and Sophomore Preston Tansill. And the defense was solid due to the teamwork and excellent play of Senior Captains Emily Dragone and Marianne Leslie along with Sophomore Emily Schlicht. Kirby Schneider recorded her first Varsity shutout. The two 30 minute regulation halves ended in 0-0 tie. TheLady Falcons had numerous scoring attempts but were denied due to the excellent play of the Jets Goalkeeper. The Jets started the ball in the overtime period; however the Lady Falconsquickly took charge and forced possessiondeep into the JetsDefensivezone. A quick shot rang out and Preston Tansill was quick to the rebound, netting the ball 48 seconds intosudden death, securing the win for the Falcons!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3036 Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT It is with great pride and pleasure that the LV Music Department announces that Senior Christina Boutros has been accepted into the All-State Mixed Chorus. The concert will be held at the December NYSSMA Conference in Rochester, New York. Christina earned a perfect score of Level VI A+ 100 on her NYSSMA solo. This is her second time as an All-State participant. This is truly one of the highest honors you can achieve as a high school musician. The selections are made from hundreds of students throughout New York State who participated in the 2011 NYSSMA Festival. Christina will be singing with the alto section. She has been a member of the LVHS concert chorale and chamber singers for the past four years. You may also remember her as a stepsister in the Jester’s production of “Cinderella”. We are also pleased to announce that Senior Courtney Miller was accepted as an alternate in the All-State Orchestra and that Senior Christopher Tasso was accepted as an alternate in the All-State Jazz Band. Both students received perfect scores of 100A+. Congratulations to all! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3037 Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT More than 1,200 Locust Valley Middle and High School students gathered Monday morning to commemorate the tenth anniversary of 9/11. The view from the bleachers where they all sat included the words “Never Forget” and “9-11” spelled out in American flags. In a moving ceremony, students listened as their classmates read poems, shared their memories of the fateful day ten years ago, and honored the United States of America. In addition to Locust Valley’s own students, several honored guests attended, sharing inspirational words and stories of personal loss related to the terrorist attacks. Organized by Social Studies Curriculum Leader David Ethe, honored guests included the Locust Valley and Bayville American Legion Color Guards, Town of Oyster Bay Leader David Gugerty, and Town of Oyster Bay Councilwoman Beth Faughan. High School Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund also spoke at the ceremony. Marc Taddonio and Laura Baierwalter each lost a loved one on 9/11 and joined the commemorative service in honor of those family members. Mr. Taddonio, a Locust Valley High School graduate, shared his memories of realizing that his brother was working in one of the towers as it went down. Rather than focusing on the sadness of the event, Mr. Taddonio told of the beautiful and generous people who came to his side during and long beyond his mourning. Among his supporters were bus drivers who collected food, friends from high school who drove across the country since planes were not yet flying, and neighbors who delivered dinner to his home every day for months. He encouraged the students of Locust Valley to honor the memory of those lost by doing for others and by appreciating the kindness of those around them. In conclusion, he asked that each of them take a moment to acknowledge those in the armed forces whenever they see them. “Thank them for keeping our country safe,” he said. Laura Doukas, Cassandra Vnook, Sophia Ronzetti, Karina Wrona, Wayne Farell, and Reed Rudowsky were all student speakers, and Catherine Boutros sang a beautiful rendition of “God Bless America.” Kenneth Syrett spoke of being in second grade in 2001 and remembering very clearly that his father, a NYC firefighter, was safe. To this day, Matt said, he worries when his father goes to work, and calls him often to say good night, good morning, or just hello. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=3020 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Varsity football game against Mineola High School this Saturday, September 10, will now begin at 2:00 p.m. at Locust Valley High School. Please come out to cheer on the Falcons! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2982 Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Middle School Students have new opportunities this school year to enhance their athletic skills. Through a new intra-scholastic sports program, students in sixth through eighth grades will have the benefit of daily sports instruction in a variety of sports. Those students not playing on a Middle School sports team can attend the intra-scholastic program in order to continue enhancing their skills, stay physically fit, and prepare for high school athletics. Students will meet three days per week after school. Fall sports will include football and boys and girls soccer. Winter sports will include girls volleyball and boys and girls basketball. Spring offerings will include baseball, softball, and boys and girls lacrosse. Each sport will be staffed by a certified coach and will be overseen by the head coach of the LVHS varsity team. Any middle school student interested in participating should attend the orientation session on Tuesday, September 20 at 3:00 p.m. in the Middle School/High School gymnasium. A detailed overview of the program will be presented and students will have the opportunity to ask questions. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2987 Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT From Kindergarten to the Class of 2012, students kicked off the 2011-2012 school year on a positive note. The day was spent forming new friendships, meeting new teachers, and jumping into academics. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2959 Tue, 06 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT There was excitement in the air at Locust Valley Middle School, with the sixth graders filling the halls, cafeteria and classrooms during their orientation session. Seventh graders were on hand to give tours, lessons on opening lockers, and tips about getting around the building. This bright-eyed group listened attentively as they were taught the rules of the cafeteria, the hallways, and the classrooms. Middle School Principal, Mr. Hogan, with the help of Assistant Principal, Ms. Green and the Dean, Mr. LoGerfo, helped the students feel comfortable with the changing of classes, reading their schedules, and arrival and dismissal routines. Friendships were being made as students from Locust Valley and Bayville Intermediate Schools compared schedules, shared stories of their summers, and learned that they were embarking on a wonderful new adventure together! Thank you to the seventh-grade volunteers and the Parent Council for their help in making orientation a success. Of course, welcome to the sixth-grade class! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2934 Mon, 05 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT The staff of the Locust Valley Central School District joined together prior to the first day of school for Superintendent’s Conference Day. With the attendance of teachers, teaching assistants, administrators, maintenance staff, secretaries, and more, the day provided an opportunity for staff members to share ideas, learn from one another, and prepare for the start of the 2011-2012 school year. The morning began with inspirational welcoming remarks from Superintendent Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund, She reminded the staff that they have some of the most important jobs in the world. Staff members at each school gathered by department to discuss goals, technology, communications, and more throughout the day. “This is an opportunity for the staff to come together in one place and share ideas. It’s not often that the entire staff is in one place and I have the opportunity to address everyone at the same time,” Dr. Hunderfund said. “It is important we feel cohesive and that they know just how much they are appreciated.” Many teachers had been in their individual schools prior to Superintendent’s Conference Day setting up their classrooms and creating their lesson plans. Welcome back to school, staff and students! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2935 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT The HS Parent Athletic Orientation scheduled for tonight, Wednesday, August 31st has been canceled due to the effects of the hurricane on many families. Parents of athletes will be contacted by coaches with information about team parent meetings which they will each facilitate during the next week. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2927 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT Due to the hurricane, many of our district roads are inaccessible. These road closures can potentially delay school busses or even prevent them completely from getting to your child’s bus stop. We do not want any child waiting for a school bus any longer than necessary. In the event that you know that a school bus will be unable to reach your child’s bus stop, please call the transportation office at 277-5510 between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. as soon as possible and no later than noon on Friday, September 2nd. After speaking with you, we will determine an alternate arrangement for pick-up and drop off until such time as the roads are passable. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2931 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT Due to the power outage from Hurricane Irene, the LVHS ninth-grade orientation scheduled for Wednesday, August 31st is canceled. Information will be provided to ninth graders through assemblies during the first week of school. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2923 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT Based on conversations with LIPA, we anticipate that there will be no electricity at the Middle School on Tuesday, August 30th. Therefore, the sixth-grade orientation has been moved to Wednesday, August 31st at 9:30 a.m. Any seventh graders who volunteered to be guides should report on Wednesday, August 31st at their designated times. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2919 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT All athletic practices will resume on Tuesday August 30th. Please arrive to your practice location at your regularly scheduled morning time. The high school golf team will leave the high school on the bus at 9 a.m. Summer sport clearances will take place at the middle school/high school health office from 8 a.m until 11:30 a.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2920 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School’s very own Jaclyn Collins won first-place for Nassau County at the finals of Long Island Idol on Tuesday, August 23rd at the Jones Beach Bandshell. Jaclyn recently came in first place in the Reach for the Stars Teen Talent Search sponsored by Nassau County. At the Long Island Idol competition, Jaclyn competed against 30 other Long Islanders, after 200 initially auditioned. The pressure was really turned up when Jaclyn arrived to the Long Island Idol competition only to learn she was going to be the first performer. However, her rendition of Celine Dion's, Taking Chances, won the judges hearts immediately. Jaclyn received a Dell Notebook and a $500 scholarship to Five Towns College. Congratulations, Jaclyn!!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2897 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT LVHS Senior All-County Lacrosse standout Chris Appell has verbally committed to Lehigh University, where he will continue his career in Lacrosse. Congratulations to Chris and Good luck this upcoming school year. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2853 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT LVHS Junior Lacrosse standout Taylor Bleistein has verbally committed to Penn State University, where she has been offered an athletic scholarship to continue her career in Lacrosse. Taylor has been a member of the LVHS Girls Varsity Lacrosse Team since seventh grade. Congratulations, Taylor! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2846 Mon, 01 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT LVI Summer Reading List and Storyboard LV Middle School Library Great Reads LVMS Grade 6 Summer Reading Assignment LVMS Grade 7 Summer Reading Assignment LVMS Grade 8 Summer Reading Assignment LVHS Grade 9 Summer Reading Assignment Grade 10 Summer Reading Questions LV English 11R Summer Reading LV English 11 Summer Reading Assignment LV English 11 IB HS Summer Read List English 12 Summer Reading Assignment IB English 12 Summer Task http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2747 Mon, 27 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the Class of 2011! View Graduation Slide Show Here! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2762 Mon, 27 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here to View the Scholarships http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2763 Mon, 27 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here to View the Universities http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2764 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Summer Packet for Incoming 6th Graders 2011 Summer Packet for Incoming 7th Graders 2011 Summer Packet for Incoming 8th Graders 2011 Geo (Exiting Alg 1) Summer Assignment 2011 Algebra 2 (Exiting Geo) Summer Packet 2011 Summer Packet IB-SL 1 2011 Incoming IB HL 2 Summer Packet 2011 Summer Packet for students ENTERING SLII 2011 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2749 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Elementary School Kindergarten Grade 1 Grade 2 Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Bayville Elementary School Kindergarten Grade 1 Grade 2 Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Middle School Supply Lists http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2750 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Click Here to View the Class of 2011 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2765 Sat, 25 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Summer Recreation Program 2011 brochure is available here. The Summer Recreation Program will be held since voters approved the 2011-2012 school district budget. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2623 Sat, 25 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Closing the door to one chapter of their lives and opening the door to another, students in the fifth and eighth grades are celebrating graduations from elementary and middle school respectively. At touching moving-up ceremonies, students were congratulated and praised for their numerous achievements and their incredible dedication to community service.Teachers were thanked for preparing the classes so well for the next leg of their educational journeys. Parents were applauded for their dedication and cooperation over the years. Congratulations to all of the graduates and we look forward to seeing many more wonderful things from you as you move on up! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2718 Tue, 21 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Please be advised that the Bayville Intermediate School Field Day scheduled for Friday has been rescheduled for tomorrow, Thursday, June 16th due to the forecast of inclement weather. Again, BI field day will take place tomorrow, Thursday, June 16th and NOT on Friday as originally planned. In the event that you have any questions, please call the school office at 277-5400. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2670 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT The LVCSD Board of Education adopted a revised budget on Tuesday, June 7th. The budget, which will be presented to voters on June 21, represents a 2.7 percent increase over current spending. While the proposed budget of $73,776,262 is a reduction from the spending plan that was defeated in May, the new budget includes important items such as Driver Education and Summer Recreation programs. For more information on the proposed budget, click here. The budget revote will be held on June 21 from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Ann MacArthur Primary School, Bayville Intermediate School, and Brookville Reformed Church. Residents may register to vote through June 15, 2011 for the June 21 budget vote. Applications for absentee ballots must be received by the District Clerk by June 14, 2011 if the ballot is to be mailed to the individual. If an absentee ballot application is received after June 14, 2011, the applicant must go to the District Clerk’s office by June 20, 2011 in order to pick up a ballot in person. Information on registration and absentee ballots can be found by clicking here http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2572 Wed, 08 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT First-graders at Ann MacArthur Primary School became researchers, writers, artists, and museum curators as they created their very own Animal Museum, opened to parents and students for their viewing pleasure! Each first grade class chose a specific animal habitat including the ocean, jungle, arctic, or desert. Individual students then chose a particular animal within that habitat. Through classroom research, students wrote their own reports on the animal and created a diorama. They worked together as a class to create a mural. When the AMP Animal Museum opened to parents and students for one morning, the museum curators were dressed to represent their habitats. As visitors entered the Jungle exhibit, they could read reports about jaguars and tigers and ask questions of the presenters donned in safari hats and khaki clothing. The Ocean exhibit displayed whales, dolphins, and other sea creatures, while the curators in that museum exhibit were dressed in goggles, beach hats, and sunglasses. “This is an excellent way for students to learn about animal life,” explained AMP Assistant Principal Michele Salerno. “Not only do they learn about the animal they researched, but they learn about all the animals that each first-grader has studied.” She added that the collaboration of so many areas of the curriculum, such as research, writing, and art, is especially beneficial. Since the first-grade classes create the Animal Museum each year, Kindergartners were especially excited as they viewed the exhibits, knowing they would have the opportunity to do this project next year! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2595 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Bayville Primary School held Field Day on a perfect Spring Day, providing an opportunity for students to have fun while incorporating many skills they have learned throughout the year. Coordination, balance, and throwing are examples of the important physical skills children learn in Kindergarten through second grade, and field day activities are focused on having students use these skills, along with showing sportsmanship and teamwork. Physical Education teachers and students worked hard throughout the year and planned this fun-filled day so their students could show off their hard work and see the rewards of their efforts. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2597 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Senior Fred Derenthal continued his championship run winning his third consectutive post-event. Fred long jumped 20’9” at the NYS State Qualifier meet to earn a spot in the State Championships. Previously Fred won the Division and County Championship. He will go on to compete in the New York State Track & Field Championships at Mumford HS in Caledonia, NY beginning on Friday June 10th through June 11th. Congratulations again to Fred and to our Coaches, Joseph Lee and Tim Lomot!! Congratulate also go out to our Girls Varsity Track 4X4 relay team of Bailey Bondy, Carly Chianese, Lucy Hayes and Grannie O'Neill, as they earned First Place and also qualified to run at the New York State Public High School State Track & Field Championships. Congratulations once again to our relay team and to our coaches Shawn Miley and Katherine Murawski. GO FALCONS!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2563 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Due to the most recent weather report of a tornado warning which includes Nassau County, the State Qualifier Track Meet scheduled for today @ Westbury High School has been moved until tomorrow. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2545 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT Each of the elementary schools in the Locust Valley School District honored the nation’s fallen veterans for Memorial Day. Through songs and poems, students expressed gratitude to Veterans for their service to our country. Students also placed flowers at the flagpole in honor of the Veterans. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2536 Fri, 27 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education will hold a Special Meeting tonight at 7:00 p.m. in the Administration Building. After convening the meeting, the Board will immediately go into Executive Session, which as required by New York State regulation, will be closed to the public because legal and personnel matters will be discussed. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2513 Wed, 25 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT LVHS Student Art Exhibit to be held May 26 from 6 to 8:00 p.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2515 Wed, 25 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Girls Varsity Lacrosse team has advanced to the Nassau County Class C Championship for the first time in Locust Valley history after defeating cross-town rival Cold Spring Harbor High School. The game went into double overtime and finally ended in a sudden death period as the Lady Falcons persevered in a stunning fashion 13-12. "Our team displayed courage, toughness and most importantly, outstanding character," said Mark J. Dantuono, Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics. "They were trailing most of the game but our Lady Falcons kept coming as they realized the game could be theirs. The results speak for themselves." Congratulations to our Coaches Kristen Hordy and Carolyn Sumcizk and the entire team on a very successful season so far! Please come out and support the Locust Valley Falcons as they continue their season in the County Championship against North Shore High School on Wednesday, June 1, at 5:00 p.m. at Hofstra University. There will be $6.00 admission fee. GO FALCONS! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2509 Tue, 24 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Varsity Boys Lacrosse team advanced to the Nassau County Class C Semifinals after defeatin Floral Park 9-5 in the Class C quarter-finals. Senior Captain Frank Vezza led the Falcons as he contributed two goals but also dominated on face-offs as he won 15 of 18 face-offs. Alex Rawa and Tom Nastasi each contributed two goals to assist the Falcons in this strong win. Outstanding goal tending by Senior Tyler Burhans as he made 15 saves to secure the win. The Falcons will face Cold Spring Harbor HS on Wednesday, May 25, 8 p.m. at Hofstra University. There will be a $6.00 admission fee. Girls Varsity Lacrosse has also advanced to the Nassau County Class C Semifinals and will play Cold Spring Harbor HS on Tuesday May 24, 6 p.m. at the Denton Avenue Field in New Hyde Park. There will be a $6.00 admission fee. Boys Golf- Senior Chris Altimari is competing today 7:30am in the Boys Golf County Championships at Bethpage State Park. Girls Golf- The following players qualified for the Nassau County Golf Championships, Emily Barbu, Annie Hagner and Amanda West. This will be held on Wednesday May 25 beginning at 7:30 a.m. at Bethpage State Park. Following the Boys Track and Field team's outstanding performance in the Division Championships, a number of athletes have qualified for the Nassau County Championship on Tuesday May 24 and Wednesday May 25 at Cold Spring Harbor HS. • Division Champion Freddy Derenthal will compete in the Long Jump and Triple Triple. • Division Champion Vincent Scuderi will compete in the Triple Jump. • All-Division athlete Peter Hogya will compete in the 200m and 400m. • Senior Tom Parisi will compete in the 200m. • Locust Valley's Division Champion 4x400m team qualified as well with Kevin Jania, Niklas Helmick, Peter Hogya, and Freddy Derenthal. Alex VanPatton and Marvin Merino will be alternates. • Our 4x100m team qualified with Tom Parisi, Marvin Merino, Niklas Helmick, and Vincent Scuderi. Ilya Nesterov and Jake Madden will be alternates. Below are members of our Girls Track and Field Team who qualified for the Nassau County Championships that will be hosted by Cold Spring Harbor High School on Tuesday May 24 at 4:30pm: Grainne O'Neill - Will compete in the 400 and 800 meters and 4X4 and 4X8 relay Stephanie Mysholowsky - Will compete in the Triple Jump and 4X1 relay Marianne Leslie - Will compete in the Discus Throw Grace Murphy - Will compete in the 800 meters and 4X8 relay Sammy Altimari - Will compete in the 800 meters and 4X8 realy Siobhan O'Neill - Will compete in the 4X8 relay Katherine Anderson - Will compete in the 100 and 400 Hurdles Denise Beauchamp - Will compete in the 400 Hurdles Carly Chianese - Will compete in the 4X1 and 4X4 realy Bailey Bondy - Will compete in the 4X1 and 4X4 relay Lucy Hayes - Will compete in the 4X4 relay Darby Daly - Will compete in the 4X1 realy *Chantal Jahchan and Riley Larkin will attend as alternates Congratulations and good luck to all of our student athletes and the entire coaching staff as they continue in the post-season race. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2496 Mon, 23 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Today's Varsity Baseball game cancelled due to the weather. Rescheduled for May 19th at East Rockaway. Varsity Girls Lacrosse rescheduled for May 19th at 4:40 p.m. vs. Mineola at LV Varsity Softball vs. East Rockaway rescheduled for Friday, May 20th at 4:00 p.m. Track Divisional Meets resecheduled for May 19th at Friends http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2481 Wed, 18 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Members of the LVHS Model UN Team took home two awards from the Model UN Conference/Competition on the Washington DC Campus of George Washington University. A total of thirty-three LVHS students attended the event and participated as members of 18 different United Nations committees. Faculty Advisors David Ethe and Katie Murawski helped prepare the students for this real-life simulation of the United Nation’s functions. “This conference provides students with the opportunity to experience first-hand how the United Nations functions as an international body and to understand from experience what they are studying in classes and in the Model UN Club” explained Mr. Ethe. The awards received included a team “Verbal Commendation” Award and an “Honorable Mention” award to Sanjay Singh for his role in Germany on the UN Security Council. Thirty eighth grade students from the LVMS Model UN team competed in the national Model UN Tournament in New York City where students attended a Model UN conference/competition and won five awards. The middle school team earned five “Honorable Mention” awards for five different committees. These are equivalent to earning second place awards. The Middle School participants earned the following awards for their work in their committees : Argentina: Human Rights Council, Honorable Mention – Justin Davis, Tazim Merchant; Argentina: General Assembly, Honorable Mention – Connor Torossian, Niko Martinovic; Chad: UNESCO, Honorable Mention – Zak Marcone, Kathy Benatti; Benin: UNEP, Honorable Mention – Thomas Ruhl, Katie LaMere; Serbia: WHO, Honorable Mention – Charles Stacey, Rameez Ahmad. Congratulations to all the students and to the Faculty Advisors David Ethe, Kathleen Reilly, and Barbara LaBella. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2456 Tue, 17 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley CSD 2011-2012 Budget Failed Yes 1192 No 1312 Residents approved each of the propositions on the ballot, however, the Driver Education Proposition was dependent on the passage of the budget, and therefore has also been defeated. The following were elected to the Board of Education: George M. Stimola Maria Segura Charles Murphy http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2464 Tue, 17 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School inducted 65 students into three Foreign Language Honor Societies, an achievement that requires dedication, hard work, and a true passion for language. The students, inducted into the French, Spanish, and Italian Honor Societies, took an oath to uphold the requirements, traditions, and obligations of each honor society. The oaths were taken in the respective languages, which students recited beautifully! High School Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire and Foreign Language Department Chairperson Rachel Green welcomed friends, families, and the inductees, stressing the benefits of being multi-lingual. Board of Education Trustee Dr. Yao Chu also spoke to students, sharing his own fluency in foreign languages and how that has helped him. Board of Education Trustee, Philip Bellisari, and Board of Education Vice President Suzanne Squeglia also attended the honor society induction. High School Senior Zoe Vinegar impressed those in attendance with a beautiful piano piece, and Nicole Friedman, Nicholas Parente and Natasha Jahchan also performed beautiful musical numbers. Officers of each foreign language society spoke to the new inductees, welcoming them to this elite organization. Congratulations to all of the inductees and the teachers who helped these students reach their goals. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2449 Mon, 16 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} Varsity baseball – game 2 of the series will NOT be played today at East Rockaway– TOMORROW 5/18 we’ll hope for sun and play today’s game tomorrow at 4:30 Varsity Softball Play Off Game today is moved to tomorrow 5/18 same time 4:00 same Place Mitchell Field Jv boys lax cancelled today – no reschedule date – season over. VBLAX game today will be played at the CENTRE ISLAND FIELD at 4:30 MSGLAX 8th grade today has been moved to 5/25 AWAY at North Shore at 4:15 START MS G Lax 7th grade at Bayville Int. has been moved from today to 5/23 at 4:30 at LVHS Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} All Divisional Track meets that were scheduled for today have been moved to tomorrow (5/18) Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} Ms Boys tennis match today moved to 5/27 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2457 Sun, 15 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT 5th Annual Writers/Directors’ Spring Showcase Thursday May, 26th, 2011, 7 pm Mini-Theater, LVHS FREE GENERAL ADMISSION ALL ORIGINAL DRAMATIC AND COMEDIC SCRIPTS written and performed by LVHS students Directed by Mrs. Bolitho and Mr. Lynch Featuring Scripts by: Emma Charno Carly Chianese Jaclyn Collins Laura Doukas Rhonda Drewes Britanny Eude Nicole Friedman Mei Kurakake Samantha Prosser Nate Szymkowicz http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2431 Fri, 13 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} With each of the Spring Varsity athletic teams achieving scholar-athlete status, Locust Valley High School qualifies for the honor of NYSPHSAA Scholar/Athlete Team “SCHOOL OF DISTINCTION” Award. This award is earned by having every single Varsity athletic team earn scholar-athlete status in a single school year. Congratulations to all of our student athletes for your achievements on the field and in the classroom!!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2415 Wed, 11 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Varsity Baseball Team had a thrilling victory over Cold Spring Harbor High School, which earned them the first place in the League BC 1 Championship. Next week the Falcons will be hosting a home play-off Baseball series in the Semi-Finals of the Nassau County Class B Championship. Please come out to cheer them on! Congratulations to Coaches Mike LoGerfo and Joe Enea on a job well done and the members of our Varsity Baseball Team for their strong efforts in capturing the League Title!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2416 Wed, 11 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Foreign Language Honor Society Induction Ceremony has been rescheduled for Wednesday, May 11, at 7:00 p.m. in the Locust Valley High School auditorium. The original induction ceremony had to be rescheuled due to a power outage. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2399 Mon, 09 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Please join us on Saturday May 7, the annual Locust Valley Lacrosse Day. The day will be filled with exciting lacrosse games. There will also be vendors and refreshments will be provided by Athletic Council. Please join us at Locust Valley High School for a fun-filled day and cheer on the Falcons! Click here for a complete schedule of games http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2394 Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} V and JV Softball moved to tomorrow May 5th Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} JV Boys Lacrosse game moved to May 6th at Clarke at 4:30 Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} MS Boys Tennis moved to May 20th Varsity Golf moved to May 5th MS Softball moved to May 19th JV Boys Tennis moved to May 6th http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2375 Wed, 04 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Spectrum, the LVHS student newspaper, has earned a first place award from the American Scholastic Press Association (ASPA). The award is given for excellence in writing, photography, design, and overall production. The Spectrum also earned an “Outstanding Editorial” award for an editorial entitled “Removal of Midterm Week Threatens Students’ Success,” which was written collaboratively by the editorial staff. Congratulations to the entire staff of this award winning publication and to Coleen Comerford, who serves as advisor. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2359 Tue, 03 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT Three members of the LVHS Girls Varsity Lacrosse team have been chosen for the Long Island-Metro School Girls Team, an outstanding achievement for any athlete! LVHS junior Courtney Boyd, and sophomores Taylor Bleistein and Bairre Reilly earned this honor after competing in a highly competitive evaluation for the national team that sends three Long Island teams to compete in the national tournament. The Women’s Division National Tournament will take place on May 28 & 29 at Stony Brook University and Ward Melville High School. In its 78th year, this historic tournament features regional high school girl’s lacrosse games and US National Team competition. The event attracts over 1,500 of the best competitors nationwide from every realm of women’s lacrosse as well as over 2,500 spectators. This is a major recruiting tournament and it is a great honor to make the team. Division I Coaches will again be joining DII and III coaches in recruiting at the National Tournament. There were over 200 girls that participated in the try outs which made for a very competitive day and a true accomplishment for Courtney, Taylor, and Bairre. The Women’s Division National Tournament began in 1933 as a way to showcase the best post-collegiate and club women’s lacrosse players. Since that time, it has grown into one of the largest and most renowned women’s lacrosse events in the nation and features over 75 teams in three levels of play including high school. Congratulations and good luck to Bairre, Courtney, and Taylor as they will compete in this National Tournament at the end of the month! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2371 Tue, 03 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT The LVI Student Council, in conjunction with the site based committee, has taken on a project that could literally change someone’s life. The group is working to raise funds to sponsor a service dog from the Guide Dog Foundation in Smithtown. They plan to work extremely hard, holding many fundraisers as the cost for sponsoring one of these special service dogs is $6,000. But that large number didn’t scare this group off – they took on the challenge with a vengeance, very anxious to help someone whose life could be improved with the help of a guide dog. The program kicked off with a “Pennies for Puppies” fundraiser. A visit from Guide Dog Foundation representatives and the appearance of adorable puppies at this event helped inspire everyone to help. The Student Government also took a trip to the Guide Dog Foundation to see how the dogs are trained for their very special jobs. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2357 Mon, 02 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT LVHS sophomore Bailey Bondy is now ranked #1 in the nation by US Squash Racquet Association. The ranking is in the Girls under 17 Division. Bailey succeeds on and off the field. Earlier this year, she was named a 2010 U.S. Squash Scholar Athlete by U.S. SQUASH, a national squash organization. The group credits Bailey’s success on the squash court and most importantly, in the classroom, as a testament to her hard work and dedication. “It is an impressive accomplishment for a high school student to achieve such tremendous success as an athlete while maintaining equal success in academics,” said Mark J. Dantuono, Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics for Locust Valley Central School District. “We are extremely proud of Bailey’s accomplishments on the field and in the classroom.” Congratulations, Bailey! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2032 Mon, 02 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT 'A CELEBRATION OF ART' a visual exhibition of representative student art in grades 6-12 Thursday, April 28th 6:30-8:30pm in the Mini-Theatre Light refreshments will be provided http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2328 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} Varsity Golf moved to 5/10 MS Baseball 7th moved to 4/29 MS Baseball 8th moved to 4/29 JV Baseball moved to 4/29 V Baseball moved to 4/29 JV Girls LAX moved to 4/29 V Girls LAX moved to 4/29 at 6:15PM at Island Trees JV Boys LAX Moved to 5/2 V Boys LAX Moved to 5/2 V Boys Tennis moved to 5/10 JV Softball moved to 5/5 MS Girls Lacrosse TBA MS Boys Tennis moved to 5/13 V Boys and Girls Track moved to 4//29 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2334 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT Today's Boys JV Tennis match against Oceanside has been moved to May 3rd http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2311 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT MSG Varsity will feature the LVHS Film program in a piece entitled, "Students in the Media" tonight (4/26) on MSG Varsity Channel 14 at 6:55 pm. Please tune in to to get a glimpse of our amazing media program and to see what our students are learning! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2312 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT Tuesday, April 26, 2011 will be a school day and not a vacation day. Frequent winter storms have taken a toll on our school calendar and on our April vacation. Due to these storms, we had to cancel school on three dates. By State Regulation, one of those days must be made up by reducing our April vacation by one day. As always and in accordance with NY SED regulations, all students and faculty are expected to be in attendance whenever school is in session including, April 26, 2011. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1860 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT JV Baseball game against Malverne has been rescheduled for Wednesday, April 27th at 4:30 p.m. at LVHS. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2288 Sun, 24 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT Boys Lacrosse originally scheduled for Saturday, April 16th has been rescheduled to Monday, April 18th at 10:00 a.m. at Centre Island. The chan ge is due to inclement weather on April 16th. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2278 Sun, 17 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT Board of Education Budget Forum, 6:30 p.m., BI Regular Board Meeting/Budget Adoption, 7:30 p.m, BI Click here for agenda. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2262 Wed, 13 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT The LVI Student Council, in conjunction with the site based committee, has taken on a project that could literally change someone’s life. The group is working to raise funds to sponsor a service dog from the Guide Dog Foundation in Smithtown. They plan to work extremely hard, holding many fundraisers as the cost for sponsoring one of these special service dogs is $6,000. But that large number didn’t scare this group off – they took on the challenge with a vengeance, very anxious to help someone whose life could be improved with the help of a guide dog. The program kicked off with a “Pennies for Puppies” fundraiser. A visit from Guide Dog Foundation representatives and the appearance of adorable puppies at this event helped inspire everyone to help. The Student Government also took a trip to the Guide Dog Foundation to see how the dogs are trained for their very special jobs. Student Council Advisors Jane Benstock and Monica Cagney said it is important for children to see what they are working for. “By being a part of the whole process, the fundraising has more meaning for them.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2217 Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT Through scientific method, inquiring minds at Locust Valley Intermediate School performed detailed science experiments and proved interesting hypotheses. The LVI Science Fair provided an opportunity for almost 50 young scientists to display projects that ranged from determining if an egg can bounce to discovering what makes teeth decay the quickest. Although the fair, presented by the Locust Valley Parents’ Council, is an annual event, this year’s version added a special twist. High School Science Research students served as judges, using their experience to dissect the experiments and their results. Everyone turned out to be a winner and receive a ribbon. Certain projects stood out and received special awards. In the third grade, Optical Illusion by Gage and Aiden won for Outstanding Display; Organic vs. Non-Organic by Grace and Torry took the Outstanding Team Award; How Plants Grow Indoors by Sophia received an Outstanding Individual Award; How to Create A Video Game by Jordan and Jeremy won third place; Hydroponics and Food Production by Hanna won second place; and Magnetism by Nils took the first place ribbon. In the fourth grade, Outstanding Display went to Balloon Blowup by Megan and Caroline; Outstanding Team went to Quicksand by Danny and Tommy; Outstanding Individual was awarded to Building a Compass by Harrison; third-place went to Can You See the Vitamin “C” by Steven; Second-place to The Invisible Force by Sarah; and the first place award to Explosive Water by Daniel. In the fifth grade, Touchy Tech by Christopher won Outstanding Individual; Under Pressure: The Ball Bouncing Science by Nicholas and Kian, won Outstanding Team, Sensitive Beauty by Elizabeth, Stephanie, and Kelly, won Outstanding Display; Potato Chip Science by Hanna and Jacob, won third-place; Education Through Fermentation by Luca took second-place; and House Insulation by Alim won first place. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2218 Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Middle School Spring Fling Dance, sponsored by the Middle School Student Government is tonight, April 8th, in the Middle School gym from 7-9 p.m. Tickets are $10.00 at the door. Pizza, snacks and dessert will be served and are included. Money raised will be donated to children in need in Japan. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2221 Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT Three teams from Bayville Intermediate School were awarded honorable mention in the Toshiba Exploravision Competition, a national science competition. The fifth-grade students were among approximately 11,000 competitors in the United States and Canada. The Bayville students are among only eight teams from New York that received honorable mention. The competition involves taking a current technology and advancing the idea 20 years into the future. Students complete online research and submit a scientific paper along with five webpage graphics. This year marked the first time that our Intermediate School students entered the competition, along with middle and high school students. Fifth graders from Bayville Intermediate and Locust Valley Intermediate formed teams and worked together to find the most ingenious solutions to problems associated with the human body. They formulated their ideas, collaborated on research, composed their project descriptions and designed a website to promote the new technology. All of the participants worked hard and created outstanding projects. Congratulations to the students and teachers, as well as the librarians who were instrumental in helping the teams complete their research. Special congratulations to Mr. Alan Stella for his expert implementation of the Toshiba Exploravision Award Competition into the Intermediate School curriculum. The projects that received awards are: “The I-Cone: Using Microbots and Nanobots to Implant Artificial Cones - A Solution to Colorblindness” by Sabrina Amian, Kendall Morfis, Julia Giannoutsos, Kelly Barker and advisor Mrs. Cameron. “Spine Savior: A Cure for Paralysis” by Alec Miranda, Rebecca Finke, Christopher Madsen, Charlotte Creedon and advisor Mrs. Pace. “The Defeater: The Answer to Heart Attacks” by Miranda Gentile, Arianna Lombardi, Danya Karch and advisors Mrs. Irizzary and Mrs. Fonzo. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2211 Thu, 07 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT JV Baseball game scheduled for today, Thursday, April 7th moved to Friday, April 15th http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2212 Thu, 07 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT Students travel from all over Long Island to be part of the Locust Valley High School Film Festival. The sixth annual Film Festival brought aspiring filmmakers from 16 high schools to Locust Valley for a day of screening the event’s top submissions. Using their creative writing, editing, acting, and producing skills, students came together to have their films judged by acclaimed film critic Sandy Kenyon of ABC News. Entries were scored in the categories of movie trailer, animation, public service announcement, commercial, documentary, music video, and short film. A winner and a runner-up in each category were awarded trophies, as well as scholarships from the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT): $1,000 for winners and $750 for second place. The festival, organized by Mr. Bruce Campbell, Ms. Gypsy Notov-Lew, and the LVHS Parent Council, provides an opportunity for students to view and learn from the work of their peers in other high schools. It is also an excellent showcase for the top-quality films that come from Locust Valley High School’s TV Production Film classes. Entries from each of the participating high schools were submitted for pre-judging by volunteer critics from NYIT and Hofstra University, and by local filmmaker John Towse. The finalists’ projects chosen during this step were then shown at the film festival and judged by Mr. Kenyon, who was not told which schools the films were from until after his selections were made. Mr. Kenyon commented that several of the films were impressive enough that he would encourage those filmmakers to pursue this as a career. Locust Valley took a first place award in the category of commercials with a film by John Ciarletta, Kevin O'Hare, John Nickas and Tony DiTuro. In the category of Animation, LVHS students Tom Broker, Vincent Scuderi and Victor Cafaro won a second place award. Every student who participated deserves recognition for their hard work and exceptional end result. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2200 Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT JV and Varsity Baseball games are cancelled - rescheduled for April 6th Boys Varsity Tennis cancelled - rescheduled for April 7th JV Boys Tennis cancelled - rescheduled for April 7th http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2190 Tue, 05 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT Students at Bayville Intermediate School and Bayville Primary School love to read, and recently they had incentive to read even more. Principal Scott McElhiney and Assistant Principal Dorothy McManus promised to eat green eggs and ham if the students reached their goal of reading 600 books. It was easy for these young readers who not only reached, but exceeded, the goal! Students cheered and clapped as Mr. McElhiney and Ms. McManus ate the dish made famous by Dr. Suess, one of the students’ favorite authors. This event was the culmination of a week-long program celebrating Read Across America Week. Events took place throughout both schools, such as a canned food drive, a book swap, and a joke-in-pocket day. The week was dedicated to making reading fun while encouraging students to read a variety of materials. The Library Media Centers at both schools worked with the Bayville PTA “Parents as Reading Partners” committee to organize the events. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2191 Tue, 05 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT Snow White, Little Red Riding Hood, and other story-book characters were recently spotted reading to classes at AMP as part of Parents as Reading Partners Week (PARP), sponsored by the Parents Council. The week-long reading celebration included many activities to encourage students to read and show them that reading is fun. One such activity brought parents to classrooms dressed as characters from the stories they were reading. Other events included a spectacular magic show in which the magic tricks focused on reading. While reading is stressed all year long, having parents participate in activities reinforces that reading can be done at school, at home, and throughout your entire life. Parent Council members Hayley Byron and Kim Rowe, who co-chaired the PARP committee organized each of the events with the help of some parent readers and Lisa Mazza who created a beautiful bulletin board at the school. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2192 Tue, 05 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} JV Softball game cancelled today Varisty and JV Baseball cancelled today http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2165 Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT The BCLL Softabll clinic scheduled for Saturday, April 2 is CANCELLED. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2167 Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Intermediate School students recently jumped for joy when they learned that they had raised $3,000 for the American Heart Association. The students participated in the annual “Jump Rope for Heart” event after school, which has raised more than $38,000 over the past six years. Physical education teachers Mr. Dan McAndrew and Mr. Kyle Simensky supervised and coordinated the event, in which fifty-two students had the opportunity to have fun with their friends after school while learning the importance of physical activity and community service. Students raised the money through sponsorship by friends and family members. Great job jump roping for a great cause! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2143 Tue, 29 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT In the event that we were to be given relief from these mandates and that no more mandates were added, we would produce millions and millions of dollars in savings immediately. Please click here to view a list of these unfunded mandates as of July 1, 2010. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1989 Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT G Lacrosse games vs. East Meadow are cancelled today rescheduled for next Thursday 3/31 – same time and place. Varsity softball game cancelled today will play at Hicksville TOMORROW – same time Baseball games cancelled – not rescheduled Golf to Driving range cancelled today 6th grade intramurals is cancelled today so the athletic teams can use indoor facilities. Golf in room 2B Doug Notti’s Room Tennis in wrestling room/weight room BLAX – 2:45-3:45 – gym GLAX – 3:45-5pm 1/3 gym (jv girls in halls and on 3:30 bus home) Soft – 3:45 – 5pm 2/3 gym Base – 5-7pm gym (JV 3:30 bus to LVI gym to practice) http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2112 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} JV baseball is cancelled - stay at high school for practice. Varsity baseball going to Glen Cove. 3:15 bus Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} Varsity Girls Softball today is moved to Glen Cove High School http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2081 Tue, 22 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT LVHS Senior Adam Parente was one of only 25 students nationwide accepted to American University’s Global Scholars Program. Additionally, American University has awarded Adam a $10,000 scholarship. American has made a good choice in accepting Adam, who is a National Merit Commended Scholar, earned perfect scores on the AP World History Exam , the World History SAT subject test and on the IB Physics Exam. He is surely a high achiever who can handle the rigorous program offered at American University. Congratulations, Adam! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2082 Tue, 22 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT Varsity Girls Track is rescheduled for Wednesday, March 23rd due to the rain. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2078 Mon, 21 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT The timeless enchantment of a magical fairy tale is reborn with the Rodgers & Hammerstein hallmarks of originality, charm and elegance. Originally presented on television in 1957 starring Julie Andrews, Rodgers & Hammerstein's CINDERELLA was the most widely viewed program in the history of the medium. The recreation in 1965 starring Lesley Ann Warren and a second remake in 1997, which starred Brandy as Cinderella and Whitney Houston as her Fairy Godmother, were no less successful in transporting a new generation to the miraculous kingdom of dreams-come-true. Thrill to such memorable songs as “Ten Minutes Ago”, “Do I Love You Because You’re Beautiful”, “In My Own Little Corner” and the hysterical “Stepsisters’ Lament.” The Locust Valley Jesters’ production featured Senior Jaclyn Collins as Cinderella and Sophomore Ernest Schieferstein as the Prince. Also featured are Christina Boutros, Hannah Milnes, Amy Stapleton, Victoria Sedlak, Zoe Vinegar and George White. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2067 Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT An important Internet and Electronic Safety Presentation will be held in the Locust Valley Middle School/High School Gymnasium for parents on March 16th at 7:00 p.m. Important information about how to keep your chidren safe will be presented. Parents and caregivers of children of all ages are encouraged to attend this informative session. Click here to view the flyer. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2010 Wed, 16 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT The entire community is invited to a screening of movies created by Locust Valley High School students for the LVHS Annual Film Festival. The festival will be attended by students from 16 schools across Long Island and includes film entries in several categories including animations, commercials, documentaries, public service announcements, short films, movie trailers and music videos. Locust Valley students took home more than half of the awards at last year’s film festival and this year’s films are also top notch! The Locust Valley films will be screened for the community on Monday, March 21st at 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1990 Tue, 15 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT Dressed as fur trappers, medics, fishermen, candle makers, shoemakers, and tailors, Locust Valley Middle School students presented the annual Colonial Jobs Fair. The seventh graders each chose particular trades from the American colonial era, dressed the part, and set up a booth describing the profession, including a display of items used to perform that job. This event is the culmination of the colonial times unit of study in the 7th grade Social Studies curriculum. “The job fair helps the students showcase, in a creative manner, the information they have learned during class,” said Social Studies Department Leader David J. Ethe. “The fair enhances the curriculum by intensely examining the political, social, economic, and geographic life our citizens faced during their life in the colonial communities of America.” Students also utilized a variety of social studies skills, such as research, public speaking, examining historical perspectives, and writing. Teamwork is another important aspect of the project, as the seventh graders worked in groups to prepare and present each trade. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=2002 Tue, 08 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Intermediate School scientists will display 46 different science experiments at the LVI Science Fair Wednesday, March 9 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. All students will receive a participation ribbon after the judging by district science teachers and LVHS science club members. Please join us as we are amazed and impressed at the findings of these creative young scientists. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1992 Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT Every single Locust Valley High School winter athletic team has earned scholar-athlete status. This means that the for each of these teams, the team average was a 90 or higher – an outstanding accomplishment for students who consistently demonstrate that they can succeed both on the field and in areas of academic endeavor. In addition, many of our student athletes have received Section VIII honors as listed below. Congratulations to each of our Locust Valley winter Varsity teams not only for their efforts but for their successes. TEAM GPA Boys Basketball 91.541 Girls Basketball 94.594 Boys Bowling 94.831 Girls Bowling 93.598 Cheerleading 95.27 Boys Indoor Track 90.384 Girls Indoor Track 90.38 Kick Line 96.769 Wrestling 92.673 20010-2011 Nassau County WINTER Section VIII Athletic Awards Name Grade Sport Award as of 3/2/11 Kacey Maher 11 Bowling All-Conference Carlos Marra 12 Bowling All-Conference Alex Rawa 11 Boys Basketball All-County Ryan Reis 12 Boys Basketball All-Conference Altimari Sammy 10 Girls Basketball All-Conference Jahchan Natasha 11 Girls Basketball All-Class B Spallino Brooke 10 Girls Basketball All-Class B Tyler Burhans 12 Track All-Conference Frederick Derenthal 12 Track Conference VI Champion in Long Jump Frederick Derenthal 12 Track All-County Frederick Derenthal 12 Track All-Conference Grainne O'Neill 10 Track All-Conference Christian Briody 8 Wrestling All-Conference Sam Casella 12 Wrestling All-Conference Nick Casella 8 Wrestling All-Conference Jack DiTuro 12 Wrestling All-County Jack DiTuro 12 Wrestling All-Conference Louis Falciano 10 Wrestling All-Conference Jordan Formicola 9 Wrestling All-Conference Robert Heney 11 Wrestling All-Conference Alex Hochberg 12 Wrestling All-Conference Andrew Lombardo 11 Wrestling All-Conference Jose Mejia 11 Wrestling All-Conference John Pedranghelu 7 Wrestling All-Conference Paul Pietrefere 12 Wrestling All-Conference Sam Ward 8 Wrestling All-Conference TEAM ACHIEVEMENTS Wrestling team earns Conference IV B Champions Boys Basketball advanced to the Nassau County Class B Semi-Finals Girls Basketball Coach - Mike Guidone Coaches Nassau Team at Exceptional Senior Game http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1969 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Interact Club is holding a blood drive Thursday, March 3rd from 7:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the high school's mini-theater. All community members are welcome to attend. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1979 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Middle School students were treated to a very special assembly the day after the Superbowl. New York Times best-selling author and former NFL defensive end Tim Green came to speak to the student body. His message was simple yet powerful: pursue your wildest dream, but have a back-up plan. The importance of reading and putting school before sports is the key to success, explained Mr. Green. He emphasized that beyond education, a person’s character determines their success. Kindness, tolerance, forgiveness and generosity should be a part of everyone’s character. Additionally, Mr. Green stressed that reading is an exercise that builds both the brain and one’s character. Seventh grader Zachary Aristei said, “I thought he was very inspiring and taught students to follow their dreams and accomplish their goals, but also to have great character because that’s what makes you truly successful.” As an athlete who realized his dreams of becoming an NFL player and best-selling author, his message is unusually powerful. Mr. Green spoke for an hour, including a question-and-answer session. Sixth graders Billy Finke and Kyle Elrod approached Locust Valley Middle School Principal Mr. Tom Hogan earlier this year asking if Tim Green could visit the school. “I was thrilled that two of our athletes wanted to hear from an author,” said Mr. Hogan, “We had to make this happen.” Locust Valley Middle School Librarian Romy Bennett arranged the logistics of his visit. Mr. Green autographed books for students and gave interviews to student newspaper representatives prior to talking to the student body. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1868 Wed, 16 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Middle School students are always looking for ways to help others. Valentine’s Day was the perfect opportunity to have some fun and raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Pennies for Patients Program. Students had the opportunity to pay $1 for LVMS Principal Tom Hogan to paint a heart on their faces during their lunch periods. Sponsored by the LVMS Student Government, the event brought students together for a god cause. Meris First, the student government advisor, said $110 was raised. “Locust valley students always come together for a good cause and with the school’s principal helping out, they were bound to have success!” The middle school student government holds various fundraisers throughout the year and will continue to raise money for the Pennies for Patients program and donate the total to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in the spring. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1869 Wed, 16 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Sometimes it’s the creativity of teachers that makes learning fun. At Bayville Intermediate School this was the case on Valentine’s Day when third graders enhanced their math and science skills using Valentine’s Day heart shaped candies. Third-grade teacher Ann Monsees gave each of her students a box of Sweethearts as a Valentine treat, but before they could enjoy the sweets, they had to calculate some statistics about the box. Using scales, rulers, and other scientific equipment, the eager group weighed the boxes of candy to see if they all weighed the same amount. Making predictions ahead of time, these young mathematicians discovered that not all of their hypotheses were correct. They also traced and measured the boxes of candy to determine the perimeter. Ms. Monsees said the activity combines math, science, and teamwork. “It’s a really fun activity that enhances the lessons we are already working on in class.” Third grade classes at BI also learned a lesson about being kind to others as part of their Valentine’s Day celebration. Prior to February 14th, the students wrote kind things about their classmates on heart-shaped pieces of paper. On Valentine’s Day, each student received the compliments written about them and created a collage from the hearts. Third-grade teacher Pamela Loher said the lesson helps students understand the importance of being kind to others. “When they receive their compliments, they see how great it makes them feel, and they realize that their kind words have made someone else feel just as great.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1870 Wed, 16 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the Boys Varsity Basketball Team for advancing to the Nassau County Class B Semifinals! The Falcons will compete against Wheatley High School on Saturday, February 19th at 2:30 p.m. at C.W. Post University. There will be a $6.00 admission fee. Congratulations to our student-athletes and to our Head Coach Tim Lomot and Assistant Derrick Fish. Good luck and Go Falcons! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1861 Tue, 15 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT For the second year in a row, Locust Valley High School has two students named as National Merit Scholarship Finalists by the College Board based on their exceptional performance on the Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Tests (PSAT). High School Seniors Mary Leah Milnes and Emma deBeer Charno have achieved an honor bestowed upon less than one percent of high school seniors nationwide. The PSAT was taken by 1.5 million high school juniors in 2009. Of those students, Mary Leah and Emma were among only 16,000 to be designated as semifinalists and are now in an even more elite group of finalists made up of less than one percent of all the students taking the PSAT. The College Board shares the names of students who earn these distinctions with colleges and universities. As finalists, Mary Leah and Emma are now eligible to receive scholarships of $10,000 towards their college educations. These scholarships can come from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, corporate sponsors, or the universities the finalists attend. Locust Valley High School also had seven National Merit Scholarship Commended Honorees, including Mary Leah and Emma. The other five are Melissa Bales, Hollace Francy, Alexander Hochberg, Allison Huysman, and Adam Parente. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1834 Tue, 15 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT The following student-athletes have qualified to attend the NYS State Qualifier meet on Thursday February 17, 6:30pm at Saint Anthony’s High School. Girls Winter Track 1000 meters Grainne O’Neill 600 meters Grainne O’Neill 4X400 meters Haley Breen Grace Murphy Stephanie Mysholowsky Carly Chianese 4X200 meters Haley Breen Grace Murphy Stephanie Mysholowsky Carly Chianese Boy’s Winter Track 4X200 meters Vincent Scuderi Jason Henris Callum Ewen Tyler Burhans Frederick Derenthal Congratulations once again to our student-athletes and to our Coaches, Katherine Murawski and William Willson. Good luck and GO FALCONS! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1849 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Dear Parents of Seventh Grade Students: Please join our middle school administration for a special Incoming Eighth Grade Orientation Program. This informative evening will take place on Tuesday, February, 15, 2011 at 6:00 PM in the Locust Valley middle/high school auditorium. In an effort to ensure an exciting and seamless transition from seventh to eighth grade our K-12 Coordinators will introduce the eighth grade curriculums and review honors and regents options available in their respective courses. We will have our guidance counselors provide an overview of the course selection process and review the timeline we will be working within. The High School Guidance Department will also review the options that become available to our students after their middle school academic experience. On behalf of the middle school administration, we look forward to seeing all of you on Tuesday, February 1, 2011. Sincerely, H. Thomas Hogan Principal, LVMS http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1850 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School sent 13 wrestlers to the Nassau County Championships this past weekend. Jack DiTuro took fourth place and completed his senior season with a 40-3 record. Jack lost a 2-1 decision in the semifinals to the eventual champion. Locust Valley had five finalists at the qualifying tournament, including two champions. Eighth graders Christian Briody and Sam Ward both lost in heart breaking finishes in the round to earn all-county honors. Eighth grader, Nick Casella also had an outstanding showing winning his first two matches. "I am so proud of the way our wrestlers represented themselves at the county tournament, they held their own against the best competition in Nassau County and helped reaffirm my belief that Locust Valley Wrestling is close to recapturing status as one of Nassau County's best programs," said Wrestling Coach Joseph Enea. Congratulations to the following students on outstanding performances displayed at the Nassau County Division I Qualifying Tournament: 96- Christian Briody- third place John Pedranghelu- fourth place 112- Sam Ward- Second place 119- Andrew Lombardo- Fourth Place 125- Jose Mejia- Third Place 130- Alex Hochberg- Champion Bobby Heney- Fourth Place 135- Michael Dusold- Third Place 140- Jordan Formicola- Second 152- Jack DiTuro- Champion 171- Sam Casella- Fourth Place 189- Paul Pietrofere- Second Congratulations to all of the wrestlers and to Head Coach Joe Enea, Assistants, Kyle Simensky and Tim Bellisari on a fantastic season!! Although the Falcons did not have any other place winners the Locust Valley team wrestled extremely well. 8th graders Christian Briody and Sam Ward both lost in heart breaking finish in the round to earn all-county honors. Another 8th grader, Nick Casella also had an outstanding showing winning his first two matches. "I am so proud of the way our wrestlers represented themselves at the county tournament, they held their own against the best competition in Nassau County and helped reaffirm my belief that Locust Valley Wrestling is close to recapturing status as one of Nassau County's best programs." Of the 13 wrestlers that wrestled this past weekend, 5 are still in middle school and 4 will be wrestling again next season. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1647 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the following students on outstanding performances displayed at the Nassau County Division I Qualifying Tournament held at Farmingdale High School this past Saturday. Locust Valley High School will be sending 12 wrestlers to the Nassau County Championships that will be held on Saturday February 12th at Hofstra University, 9am, $6.00 admission fee. Locust Valley had five finalists at the qualifying tournament, including two champions. 96- Christian Briody- third place John Pedranghelu- fourth place 112- Sam Ward- Second place 119- Andrew Lombardo- Fourth Place 125- Jose Mejia- Third Place 130- Alex Hochberg- Champion Bobby Heney- Fourth Place 135- Michael Dusold- Third Place 140- Jordan Formicola- Second 152- Jack DiTuro- Champion 171- Sam Casella- Fourth Place 189- Paul Pietrofere- Second Congratulations to all of our wrestlers and to our Head Coach Joe Enea, Assistants, Kyle Simensky and Tim Bellisari. Good luck at the county tournament on Saturday, February 12th!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1807 Tue, 08 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Ten Locust Valley Robotics teams swept the awards at the First Lego League qualifying competition in Massapequa. These teams will be moving on to the Long Island Finals in Longwood on March 6th. The winning teams from LVMS are “RoboTanks”, “Antibodies”, “Contagious”, “Firecrackers”’ “MER”, “Geek Squad”, “Autobots” and “Cool as a Moose”. Also making the finals were the “Dominators” from Bayville Intermediate and “Roboteers” from LVI. There were almost 70 teams competing, making the awards that much more remarkable! Locust Valley students were given special recognition at the Awards Ceremony, highlighting the teams that Skype with Taiwanese student teams. These Locust Valley students used technology to include students from across the globe on their teams and used videoconferencing technology to have them there at the competition – a truly unique and educational experience. Students from Taiwan, who regularly Skype with Locust Valley students and are actual members of the Robotics teams, were on a school break during the competition. However, these students Skyped from their vacations in Australia and Zimbabwe, while others were at home in Taiwan, making this a multi-continent competition! The two-day event was exciting from beginning to end as some teams consistently held the top spots throughout and others battled technical issues, but re-engineered their robots to regain their top positions. The tireless efforts made by all the parent coaches and mentoring by Robert Fallot and Alan Stella helped lead these teams to victory! Team members represented Locust Valley with grace, spirit, and an admirable effort and all teams deserve recognition for a job well done! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1816 Tue, 08 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the following winter track student-athletes for qualifying for the County Championships that are being held on Thursday, February 10 at Saint Anthony’s High School, 6:30 p.m. Girls Team Grannie O’Neil- 1000m, 600m and 300m Carly Chianese- 4x400, 4x200 Haley Breen- 4x400, 4x200, 600m Grace Murphy- 4x400, 1000m, and an alternate for the 4x200 Jesse Spear- 4x200 Victoria Siliato-1500, alternate for the 4x400 and 4x200 Stephanie Mysholowsky- 4x200 and alternate for 4x400 Boys Team Fred Derenthal- Long Jump, Triple Jump and alternate for the 4x200 Calvin Ewen- 4x200, 4x400 Peter Hogya- 4x400, 600m, 1000m Kevin Jania- 4x400, 300m, 600m Vincent Scuderi-4x400 and triple jump Tyler Burhans- 4x200, 55m, 300m Kevin Rieger- 4x400 and alternate for the 4x200 Joe Kim- Alternate for the 4x400 Jason Henris- 4x400 and alternate for the 4x200 Kevin Placilla- Alternate for the 4x200 Once again congratulations to all of our student-athletes and to our Coaches, Katherine Murawski, and Bill Willson. Good luck and GO FALCONS!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1787 Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT The 8th grade girls basketball game originally scheduled for today, Monday, February 7th has been rescheduled for March 7th. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1793 Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Thursday February 3, 2010 Girls basketball @ East Rockaway JV 5:30 and V 7:15 game Boys Basketball @ Cold Spring Harbor JV 5pm and V 7pm game Friday February 4, 2010 Boys Basketball vs. East Rockaway here at LV 4:45 and 6:30 Wednesday February 9, 2010 Girls Basketball vs. Cold Spring Harbor here at LV 4:30 and 6:30 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1773 Thu, 03 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Bills were presented, the pros and cons argued, and finally votes were taken. The same effort and emotion was displayed in this simulated role-play process as in the actual House of Representatives. However, these were Locust Valley High School seniors learning how the government works, during the school’s 22nd annual Congress in Action. Each student assumed the character of a member of the House of Representatives, developed a bill as part of a committee, and argued for the passing of the bill during a Student Mock Congress. The entire senior class participated in the event, which gave students a great understanding of how our government works. Additionally, it provided a feel for the challenges that politicians are faced with when trying to pass new legislation, as students listened to their peers argue both for and against the bills they presented. Each student congressperson performed extensive research to ensure that the bills were factual and could withstand the scrutiny of the student congress. The experience was very realistic, as students’ bills were reviewed by their committee members and revised until the full committee was satisfied. Some of the Congressional Committees represented included Agriculture, Appropriations, Transportation and Infrastructure, and Ways and Means. The congressional committees chose bills that could actually be proposed in the United States Congress. The bills were topical, usually having a connection to current events. Locust Valley Social Studies Chairperson David J. Ethe explained that Congress in Action teaches students a variety of skills that will aid them throughout their education and in their future careers. “It provides our students with skills to enhance their public speaking and research methodologies, as well as teaching them to work together cooperatively and to compromise on solutions to current issues facing our nation,” Mr. Ethe remarked. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1774 Thu, 03 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT In this electronic age of Internet search engines and mobile navigation systems, it’s comforting to know that Locust Valley Middle School students don’t need to rely on technology to answer tough geography questions. The annual Locust Valley Middle School Geography Bee proved that students in sixth through eighth grade can read maps, know detailed facts about various parts of the world, and can perform under pressure! This elimination-style bee, sponsored by the National Geographic Society required participants to answer difficult questions under strict time restraints. Topics included map reading, questions about cities, U.S. and world geography, historical and cultural geography, as well as the geography of extremes (such as weather). Locust Valley Central School District’s Social Studies Chairperson, David J. Ethe, encourages students to study hard for the bee. “It reinforces the importance of this topic,” he explained. “This is one methodology of teaching different forms and types of geography.” The finalists were: First Place, Sam Ward, 8th grade; Semifinalists, Christine Carroll, 7th grade; Ashley Rivardo, 7th grade; and Sean Reid – 8th grade. The winner from each school competes in the state level (and if qualifies – the national level) of the bee by taking a written exam. Not only the finalists from Locust Valley, but all the participants are winners. “They all showed incredible knowledge,” Mr. Ethe noted. “They obviously studied hard and it showed, as they were focused and answered all of the questions with incredible confidence.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1775 Thu, 03 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT SEPTA and High School Guidance Present: Transition to College for Students with Disabilities, Feb. 7th A Panel Discussion Monday, February 7th, 2011 7:30 p.m. Ms/Hs Mini Theater Refreshments will be served http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1777 Thu, 03 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT All Locust Valley schools are closed today, Wednesday, February 2nd due to dangerous weather conditions and a loss of electricity in four of the schools. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1764 Wed, 02 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT The 7th Grade Parent Night has been cancelled and will be rescheduled at a later date. More infomration will follow when a date is confirmed. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1746 Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT All afternoon and evening activities, including sports, are cancelled today, February 1st, due to inclement weather. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1753 Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} Perspective Literary & Art Magazine Presents: Spotlight Night An evening of acoustic music and poetry reading Thursday, February10 - Mini Theater - 7 P.M. Free admission for teachers! Featuring Performances by: Adam Deitchman Amanda Gibson Anna Tarantino Christina Guerra Christina Scheblein Courntey Miller Emma Charno Hayden Tomanek Jackie Collins John Lamere Jose Bustillo Molly Sipperley Monica Farrell Nick Mihaltses Paula Picon Richie Straub Sunayna Prasad Tom Broker Venice Yabo Zach Rowe Zoe Vinegar And a special performance by a faculty member too! Hope to see you all there! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1755 Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT LVHS students used all of their creative energy to evoke emotion from the audience during the Fifth Annual Writers/Directors Monologue Showcase in January at Locust Valley High School. Performing original skits based on the theme of family, students tackled subjects revolving mostly around the loss of family members. The scripts were fictional and showed the true writing ability of these talented young men and women. Performing the very scripts they wrote, students also showed their versatility as actors. The performance features LVHS students Emma Charno, Carly Chianese, Meagan Cooper, Rhonda Drewes , Britanny Eude, Shivangi Kakar, Mei Kurakake, Stephanie Peguillan, Samantha Prosser, and Nate Szymkowicz. The show was directed by Mr. Lynch and Ms. Bolitho. Everyone is looking forward to the Spring performance of the Writers/Directors Monologues which will be held on May 26th at 7 p.m. in the High School mini-theater. Pelase tune in to MSG Varsity on Tuesday, February 8th at 7 p.m. to see a special segment featuring the monologues. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1756 Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT Basketball games originally scheduled for Tuesday, February 1have been rescheduled for Wednesday, February 2nd at the following: Girls Varsity at LV, 6:30 Girls JV at LV, 4:30 Boys Varsity at Cold Spring Harbor, 7pm Boys JV at Cold Spring Harbor, 5pm http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1758 Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT ALL LOCUST VALLEY SCHOOLS ARE CLOSED TODAY, THURSDAY, JANUARY 27th DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1692 Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT The parent presentation on electronic and Internet safety scheduled for Thursday evening, January 27th has been cancelled due to inclement weather. We will let you know as soon as a new date has been scheduled for this event. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1720 Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Sixth Grade Intramurals Cancelled Tuesday, January 25th due to the weather. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1687 Tue, 25 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT All After School Activities are Cancelled Today - Wednesday, January 26th http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1689 Mon, 24 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT There will be a 2-hour delayed opening for all of the Locust Valley School District Schools Friday, January 21st due to inclement weather. The Middle and High Schools will open at 9:45 a.m and the elemenetary schools will open at 10:55 a.m. Buses will also be delayed for two hours. Students who ride buses should be ready to be picked up at their usual bus stops two hours later than their usual pick up times. The Central Parent Council meeting will be held at 11:30 a.m. in Central Office. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1668 Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT THe LVHS Varsity Wrestling Team defeated cross town rival Oyster Bay High School. As a result, the team has earned the Conference 4B Championship. Congratulations to theentire wrestling program and to the coaches, Joe Enea, Kyle Simensky and Tim Bellisari on a job well done! The team will be preparing for post-season play, more information to come! Again, congratulations FALCONS!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1663 Thu, 20 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Girls Varsity and JV Basketball games originally scheduled for Friday, January 21, have been rescheduled to Thursday, January 20. JV will play at 4:30 p.m. and Varsity at 6:30 p.m. - both at LVHS. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1655 Wed, 19 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School Senior, Melissa Bales, has been named an Intel Science Talent Search Semifinalist. She is one of only 57 high school students across Long Island to receive this honor. Throughout the nation, Melissa is one of only 300 to achieve semifinalist status, and will be awarded a $1,000 prize. Melissa is now in the running for a spot as a finalist. Of the 300 semifinalists, Intel will announce 40 finalists on January 26th. These finalists will go on to compete in Washington DC in March for the grand prize of $100,000. LVHS seniors Nickas Argirios and Mark Vessalico also submitted projects to the Intel competition. Science Research Coordinator Chris Hoppner said that all three students deserve recognition for the intense dedication they put into their research. He added, “I am extremely proud of the hard work and dedication that Melissa puts into all of her research endeavors. She is the epitome of what a true research scientist is, and her strenuous work ethic and natural curiosity will take her very far in life.” Melissa’s research project, entitled “Jaws Bites Back: Ciguatera Poisoning: Fallout from the Fin Trade” studied the possibility of Bioaccumulation of a toxin found in fish. This means that certain fish (in her case, the Yellow Finned Mojara) are more likely to carry the Cigutera Toxin, and as larger fish like sharks eat more and more of these fish, the toxin increases in their tissue. So, in countries which eat Shark Fin Soup as a delicacy, residents may stand a risk of ingesting this toxin by eating the soup. Melissa theorized that since Lemon Sharks have a diet that is made up of more than 50 percent of the Yellow Fin, people who eat this shark fin could get seriously ill. Melissa ‘s research included tissue study at SUNY Stony Brook. Congratulations to all of the participants and good luck to Melissa in the next round of the competition! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1646 Thu, 13 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Please note that all Locust Valley School District Schools will open at their normal starting times on Thursday, January 13th. All students and staff should plan to arrive at their normal starting time. All school busses will be running on their regular schedules. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1640 Tue, 11 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Due to the snow storm predicted to begin Tuesday evening, the following changes have been made to the Basketball games: Boys Varsity Basketball on Tuesday January, 11th has been rescheduled for 5 p.m. at Carle Place High School. Girls Varsity Basketball on Tuesday, January 11th has been rescheduled for 5 p.m. at LVHS. Boys JV Basketball and Girls JV Basketball originally schedueld for Tuesday, January 11th have been cancelled and will be rescheduled at a later date. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1618 Mon, 10 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT In this advanced digital age, parents face the difficult challenge of knowing how to keep their children safe on the Internet, cell phones, and more. It is important to learn strategies that help you stay aware of what your children are sending and receiving, and how to keep them away from danger. On Thursday, January 27th at 7:00 p.m. in the Middle School auditorium, Assistant District Attorney Brian Heid will present important information relating to cyberbullying, sexting, and Internet predators. Do not miss the tips and strategies that will be shared at this time. In addition to this important speaker, information booths will be set up by various companies, such as cell phone carriers, to let parents know about the parental controls they offer for keeping your children safe. You may visit these booths from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. just outside the Middle School auditorium. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend this presentation and learn how to get one step ahead of the technology! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1625 Mon, 10 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT LVHS proudly presents The 5th Annual Writers/Directors’ MONOLOGUE SHOWCASE: “Family” Thursday, January 13th 2011, 7:00 p.m. Mini-Theater, LVHS FREE GENERAL ADMISSION All Original COMEDIC AND DRAMATIC SCRIPTS written and performed by LVHS students Directed by Mrs. Bolitho and Mr. Lynch http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1482 Mon, 10 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT All after school activities are cancelled today, Friday, January 7th due to the weather. There will still be a 3:45 p.m. bus from the Middle School/High School. TODAY's Driver Education classes are cancelled. However, the weekend driver education program has NOT been cancelled and will run on the normal schedule. If there is any change, students will be notified by text messaging no later than 7a.m. on Saturday or Sunday. The Wrestling Invitational scheduled for Saturday is still taking place. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1610 Fri, 07 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Giving apples to the teacher is a longstanding tradition, but what is a teacher to do with all those apples? Second grade teacher Santa Rovere used the apples she received from students as an opportunity to enhance the curriculum and have some fun with her class at Bayville Primary School. Since the second-grade curriculum includes learning “how to” write a “how to,” the class worked together to make applesauce from scratch following a recipe, “How to Make Applesauce.” Reading the recipe and following the steps, helped the children to see first-hand how a “how to” is written, why the details are important, and that following directions exactly is also critical. This creative lesson had students reading the recipe, following the steps, and finally, enjoying the delicious outcome of their efforts! The experience will help students write their own “how to” stories on topics of their choosing, such as how to build a snowman, or how to tie your shoes. Mrs. Rovere said making the lesson interactive and fun helps the children to understand the material and keeps them interested in the topic. “By participating in the cooking and then eating the applesauce, the students saw that giving proper directions is important. Now they can apply what they’ve learned to their own stories,” she explained. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1612 Fri, 07 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School Senior, Mary Leah Milnes, has been named a News12 Scholar Athlete. This honor, bestowed on only 30 high school students across Nassau and Suffolk Counties, is based on Mary Leah’s accomplishments athletically and academically. She not only is a member of the volleyball, softball, and track teams, she is also the Class of 2011 Valedictorian, an IB Diploma candidate, and an accomplished musician. Additionally, Mary Leah is the Features Editor of the LVHS Newspaper, The Spectrum. Locust Valley High School Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire was not surprised by the award. “Mary Leah Milnes is a true competitor in every area of her life.” He added that as Valedictorian, she has the highest grade point average in her class, participates in numerous extracurricular activities and has won awards for her work in The Spectrum. The feeling is same from all who know her. To be the recipient of the News 12 Scholar Athlete Award is an unbelievable accomplishment, which Mary Leah has earned through hard work, dedication, and by being a team player. She is now associated with a prestigious group of student-athletes across Long Island,” said Mark J. Dantuono, Director of Health, Physical Education & Athletics. Mary Leah will be featured on News12 on Monday, January 10th at 5:50 p.m. She was presented with a plaque by News12 at school and will be honored at a dinner this spring. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1614 Fri, 07 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT To view the winter Atheltics slideshow, click here to get to the Athletics page. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1603 Thu, 06 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT The Boys JV and Varsity Basketball games scheduled for Friday January 7th have been rescheduled for Thursday, January 6th. The location will still be at East Rockaway, however the new time for JV is 5:00 p.m. and the new time for Varsity is 6:45 p.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1601 Wed, 05 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT Practice for all sports, INCLUDING Boys Varsity Basketball, is cancelled for Monday, December 27th due to the inclement weather. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1567 Sun, 26 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Middle School reporters snagged another celebrity interview, this time with Iron Chef Marc Forgione! Members of the LVMS school newspaper, The Voice, traveled to the chef’s Tribeca restaurant in Manhattan, aptly named “Marc Forgione” to interview the celebrity for a future edition of Newsday’s “Kidsday”. Although Marc Forgione is the Food Network’s “New Iron Chef” and will now appear on that show as well as run his restaurant which he opened in 2008, he took time out of his busy schedule to give LV students the opportunity to experience a professional style interview.. The eighth graders conducted their interview at the start of the meeting, asking questions about the show and his rise to fame on the Food Network, then he brought them into the kitchen and taught them, by demonstrating and allowing them to participate, how to brine a duck to make duck pancetta. He will cure their ducks for a month then send them back to the school so the student reporters can take them home. The students were accompanied by the newspaper advisor, Susan Beers, who said it is experiences like this one that motivate these young reporters and editors to push themselves. “They not only prepare through research for the interview, but they see in person that hard work leads to success,” Ms Beers explained. “Overall, the experience was amazing!” Ms. Beers recently brought a different group of students to interview Harry Potter star Ruper Grant for Newsday’s “Kidsday.” Click here for a link to the "Kidsday" interview. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1566 Wed, 22 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT The beautiful sounds of singing, string instruments, wind instruments, and the incredible talent of Locust Valley students are one of the most precious joys that make up the holiday season. This year’s winter concerts at each of our schools have proven that our students are not only musically talented, but also dedicated to their lessons and practicing. Holiday songs, as well as classics, had family and friends tapping their feet to the beat! In addition to wonderful performances, the Tri-M Music Honor Society Inductions were held during the high school’s winter concert. Nearly 30 high school musicians were invited to join this prestigious honor society based on their musical achievements. Congratulations to all on this incredible milestone and for bringing musical joy to the community this holiday season! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1562 Tue, 21 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT Musical numbers, inspiring speeches, and impressive qualifications marked a traditional ceremony in which 95 Locust Valley High School students were inducted into the National honor Society. Grade point average, extra-curricular activities, community service, and character all play a role in being invited into this exclusive club. Board of Education President Jack Dolce, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund, and High School Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire each spoke to the inductees about the hard work and dedication that brought them to this point. Current members of the National Honor Society welcomed the new members. President Hollace Francey, Vice-President Allison Huysman, and Treasurer Katelyn Tisch spoke about character, and led the ceremony. Zoe Vinegar impressed attendees with a musical interlude on the piano, and National Honor Society co-advisors Ms. Jennifer Masa and Ms. Courtney McKay installed the 2010-2011 officers, and also planned this very special evening. The induction ceremony for National Honor Society typically includes a candle lighting ceremony and Locust Valley held to this tradition in a beautiful manner. Candles were lit for each of the character traits that personify the society. Inductee Marianne Leslie lit the candle for scholarship; John Quartuccio for service; Karina Wrona for leadership; and James D’Arpa for character. Afterwards, each of the inductees lit a candle and recited the pledge, in which they promised to uphold the high ideals of the National Honor Society. Congratulations to the all of the inductees. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1502 Sun, 12 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} Locust Valley students have proven once again that they can achieve! Every fall sports team has been recognized as a scholar-athlete team, which means that the team as a whole had a grade point of average of at least 90. Both the student athletes and the coaches understand the importance of performing well on the field and in the classroom. Additionally, each of the field hockey teams – Middle School, Junior Varsity, and Varsity – received the Nassau County Officials Association Section VIII Team Sportsmanship Award. Once again, the students and coaches understand the importance of having positive interactions with the other team players and coaches. Actions like these set Locust Valley apart from the rest! More than 30 of our student athletes have been recognized with individual awards as well. Below is a list of these achievements. The Varsity Boys Soccer team advanced to the Class B Semi-finals and the Girls Cross Country team had three New York State qualifiers. Congratulations to all of the Locust Valley Falcons on a fabulous season on and off the field. Way to go! 20010-2011 Nassau County Fall Section VIII Athletic Awards First Name Last Name Grade Sport Award as of 12/9/2010 Kevin Jania 11 Boys Cross Country All-Division Ryan Malone 12 Boys Cross Country All-Division Greg Caso 9 Boys Cross Country All-Division Mike Lejuez 12 Boys Soccer All-County/Scholar Athlete Miguel Martinez 12 Boys Soccer All-County/Exceptional Senior Estive Morales 12 Boys Soccer All-Conference Joe Gilio 12 Boys Soccer All-Conference Austin Carbone 11 Boys Soccer All-Conference Bairre Reilly 10 Field Hockey All-County Honorable Mention Emily Dragone 11 Field Hockey All-County Honorable Mention Jenna Desmond 12 Field Hockey All-Conference Jessica Craft 11 Field Hockey All-Conference Meghan Collins 12 Field Hockey All-Conference Marianne Leslie 11 Field Hockey All-League Samantha Limperis-Kaufman 12 Field Hockey Exceptional Senior Stephanie Peguillan 12 Field Hockey Unsung Hero Alex Minicozzi 12 Football All-County/All Conference Frank Vezza 12 Football All-Conference Academic Tyler Burhans 12 Football LIAFO Unsung Hero Melissa Bales 12 Girls CrossCountry All-Division/League Madeline Casalino 8 Girls CrossCountry All-Division/League Grainne O'Neill 10 Girls CrossCountry All-Division/League Riley Monck-Rowley 10 Girls CrossCountry All-Division/League Stephanie Lucidi 12 Girls Soccer All-County/Exceptional Senior Melanie Iovino 11 Girls Soccer All-Class Zoey Hourihan 12 Girls Soccer All-Conference Elyse Ciotta 11 Girls Tennis All-Conference Taylor White 12 Girls Tennis Sportsmanship Award Brittany Eude 12 Volleyball All-Conference Mary Leah Milnes 12 Volleyball All-Conference ALL FALL 2010 TEAMS ACHIEVED NYS SCHOLAR ATHELTE TEAM RECOGNITION: Boys Soccer 93.8, Girls Volleyball 93.4, Kickline 93.2, Girls Cross Country 93.1, Girls Tennis 93, Girls Soccer 92, Boys Golf 92, Field Hockey 91.6, Cheerleading 91.5 Boys Cross Country 91.4 and Football 91.4. TEAM ACHIEVEMENTS Boys Soccer advanced Class B Semi-Finalists Girls Cross Country team had three New York State Qualifiers Field Hockey- Section VIII Nassau County Officials Association Team Sportsmanship Award Winner Girls Soccer- Section VIII Nassau County Officials Association Team Sportsmanship Award Winner http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1503 Sun, 12 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley students never disappoint when it comes to helping others. So, it is no surprise that the Locust Valley High School Interact Club collected toys to benefit the sixth annual Matthew Fetzer Toy Drive. Matthew was a Locust Valley Middle School student who sadly lost his battle with cancer. While undergoing treatment, Matthew vowed that when he was better, he would provide toys for children stuck in hospitals. Although he could not carry out this dream, his parents Ann and Bill deliver holiday cheer to hospital patients each year in his honor. Each of the Locust Valley Schools participates in the toy drive, from elementary to high school level. The Fetzer family recently picked up the large donation of toys collected by the Interact Club and will return to receive toys from the Middle School Student Government later this month. The Fetzer family delivers the toys to various local hospitals for children who may otherwise not have much cheer. The toy drive is ongoing throughout the year and toys are delivered to children several times during the year. Way to go LV students, sharing with others and showing the community that who you really are! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1504 Sun, 12 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT Four LVMS students got the hottest interview of the season as they questioned Rupert Grint, otherwise known as Ron Weasley in the Harry Potter movies. The interview, which took place in person in Manhattan, will appear on Newsday’s website and print edition. The eighth graders, Mary Kate Guma , Jackie Falino, Niko Martinovic, and Connor Sivacek are all on the staff of the LVMS newspaper, The Voice. Their advisor, Susan Beers arranged for the interview, which included a press screening of the movie and the opportunity to write a movie review that will also appear in Newsday. “Interviewing and writing skills that these students have learned over the years, were put to the test with this real-life scenario,” explained Mrs. Beers. “These students passed with flying colors!” The staff of The Voice learns about journalism as they put together the school newspaper, interviewing students and staff members. Being able to take that experience and apply it to interviewing a celebrity was an experience they will never forget, she added. Mrs. Beers was unable to bring the entire newspaper staff to this exciting interview, so names were pulled from a hat to decide which students would attend. Portions of the movie review and interview will be published on the Newsday website on Friday, November 19th. The full interview will be published in Newsday’s “Kidsday” in March. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1382 Thu, 02 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT ON THE SPOT ADMISSIONS C.W. Post December 9th at 9:00 a.m. Admissions representatives from C.W. Post will be at Locust Valley High School to meet with interested seniors for an on-the-spot admissions day. An application, which can be obtained in the LVHS Guidance office, MUST be filled out in advance. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1448 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} Click here to access an online graphing calculator if you do not have access to one. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1437 Mon, 29 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Please come and cheer on the LVHS Basketball teams as they scrimmage against high school teams visiting from Denmark. The visiting teams will be staying in the homes of some our basketball players, learning about our culture and sharing their culture with LV students and their families. These visitors will also attend high school classes with their hosts in order to learn about our schools and share with all of the LVHS students information about life in Denmark. The basketball games will take place as follows: Boys JV Basketball vs. Denmark Wed., Dec. 1, 3:30 p.m., LVHS gymnasium Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Denmark Wed., Dec. 1, 5:30 p.m., LVHS gymnasium Girls JV Basketball vs. Denmark Fri., Dec. 3, 5:30 p.m., LVHS gymnasium Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Denmark Fri., Dec.3, 3:30 p.m., LVHS gymnasium http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1438 Mon, 29 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students at Bayville Intermediate School were bowing to their partners, swinging, and promenading around the square at their annual holiday hoe down! The event is a celebration and demonstration of all the skills they have learned in physical education classes during a unit on square dancing. Mastering the square dancing requires coordination, attention, and cooperation! The third through fifth graders followed the direction of the caller as though they had been hearing “do si do” all their lives! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1418 Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley students are always up for a challenge, so when they were chosen to compete in the LI Challenge, the LVHS Varsity Quiz Bowl Team was certainly ready. The Challenge is an academic TV quiz show for high schools featuring the best and brightest local students. Hosted by News 12 Long Island anchor, Jared Cotter, The Challenge tests Long Island high school students' knowledge of history, arts and literature, science, and math. The Locust Valley team headed to the show’s taping in Manhattan to take on the Hebrew Academy of the Five Towns and Rockaway (HAFTR). Team members include seniors Melissa Bales (Captain), Mary Leah Milnes, Mark Vessalico, Adam Parente, and Craig Casazza. Craig served as alternate for this match as only four players are permitted to compete. In typical Locust Valley fashion, the Quiz Bowl Team had a supportive cheering section made up the LV Falcon (Anna Tarantino), senior cheerleaders Carly Chianese, co-captain Corinne Deitsch, Captain Nicole Dooley, Danielle Franzone, Lauren Mitchell, Jenna Prettitore, Patricia Roth, and Katelyn Tisch, Co-Captain. The Junior Varsity Quiz Bowl squad including Tyler Fallon, Christina Boutros, Taylor Anderson, Laura Doukas, and Hannah Milnes, along with faculty members Joseph Harrison, Chris Hoppner, and Doreen Kobus were also at the taping to cheer the team on. LVHS Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire coached the team with the help of Mr. Harrison and Mr. Hoppner. Although the results of the match cannot be released until the television airing, the competition was very close and quite exciting. This is the second consecutive year in which LVHS has had a team in the Challenge. The Quiz Bowl Teams (Varsity and JV) are also competing for the first time in a local high schools’ league. The league competes monthly from November to April, after which there are playoffs. The LI Challenge competition featuring the Locust Valley Varsity Quiz Bowl team will air on Sunday, December 26th at 5:30 p.m. on cable TV Channel 14 and On Demand on 614. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1414 Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School senior Angelo Marciano had the opportunity of a lifetime when he was chosen to be an on-air reporter for MSG Varsity at the Long Island Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Angelo’s experience public speaking and in the TV Media program at the high school qualified him as the perfect candidate for the job. He is the Student Body President and the student representative to the Board of Education. Angelo attended the music awards ceremony and gala held at Oheka Castle in Huntington and had the opportunity to personally interview the inductees as they walked the red carpet and in the press room afterwards. Celebrities included Lou Reed, The Shangri-Las, Eddie Money, Erik B & Rakim, Bob Gruen, Morton Gould, and more. During the event, Angelo not only interviewed celebrities, preparing questions ahead of time, but also learned tips of the trade from professional news reporters, anchors, and photographers as he worked side by side with them. The experience will be invaluable to him as he intends to major in communications in college next year. Additionally, Angelo was interviewed by MSG Varsity for a feature they are producing about the students who participated in this event. Angelo was one of only five students across Long Island to be chosen for this opportunity. You can see Angelo in action on MSG Varsity, Tuesday, November 30th at 7:00 p.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1415 Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Thanksgiving holiday is full of traditions and the students at Ann MacArthur Primary School have their own tradition. Each year, the kindergarten class reenacts the crossing of the Mayflower. The event is not only fun, but a creative way to teach children about the history that surrounds this American holiday. Dressed in white Pilgrim hats and Native American head dresses, the kindergarteners at AMP performed an adorable rendition of the Crossing of the Mayflower through song, dance, and theatrics. Following the performance, each kindergarten class held a traditional Thanksgiving feast to celebrate and foster a feeling of community! The hallways at AMP have never smelled so delicious with the scent of homemade soup wafting out of each classroom. Many thanks to the parents and teachers for making this event so much fun for the children! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1417 Fri, 19 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT St. John's University A representative from St. John's University will be coming to LVHS on December 3rd at 9:00 a.m. to meet with interested seniors for an on site admissions decision day. The application fee will be waived and students who meet admissions criteria (85 avg. and 950 on the reading and math sections of the SAT) will be given an admissions decision that day. Interested students must sign up in Guidance and submit the following information prior to November 29th: * St. Johns application - available in Guidance (students must complete the application) * Transcript - students need to have a signed records release form (signed by parents/guardians). Forms are available in Guidance. * Copies of ACT and/or SAT scores - St. John's will take a printout from the CB/ACT website. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1297 Fri, 19 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to Senior Varsity Boys Soccer Captain, Miguel Martinez for earning a spot on the “Exceptional Senior Team”. It is a testament to his hard work, skill, and sportsmanship to be chosen for this team. The "Exceptional Senior Team" will play a game that will showcase Nassau County’s best seniors against Suffolk County’s best seniors on Saturday, November 27th at Peter C. Collins Soccer Park in Plainview at noon. Great job, Miguel! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1379 Wed, 17 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT When Social Studies classes at Locust Valley Middle School heard that one of their classmates has a cousin serving in the military, they were eager to make his stay overseas as comfortable as possible. Lt. Glenn Harvey is a graduate of the LVHS class of 2004, so the students realized they would be helping one of their own. Lt. Harvey’s cousins Alex and Caroline Rawa had sampled some of the food rations that soldiers are given daily and they knew they had to help. Caroline, a student in the middle school, helped the Social Studies classes organize a food drive that would include some items to make Lt. Harvey and his fellow soldier’s taste buds a little happier, and older brother Alex joined in the efforts too. Social Studies teacher Penny McElwain helped the Social Studies classes organize the collection. Boxes located throughout the school were filled with non perishable food items such as canned soup, cookies, and powdered drink mixes, as well as other necessities including socks, razors, and soap, all thanks to the generosity of the entire school community. Mrs. Rawa picked up the boxes from the middle school and is mailing them to Lt. Harvey and his platoon in time for the holidays. Ms. McElwain said that collecting items for the soldiers was not only a charitable act, but also emphasized civics. “The entire process taught the children about being civic minded and tied in with the Social Studies curriculum quite nicely.” Locust Valley students are making the community proud by looking out for others. We are also proud of Lt. Harvey for serving our country. He is currently serving in the Marines and was deployed to Marjah, Afghanistan this past July. We look forward to his safe return! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1381 Wed, 17 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Dear Parents of 8th grade students: Please join our high school administration for a special Incoming 9th Grade Orientation Program. This informative evening will take place on Tuesday, November 30, 2010 at 7:00PM in the Locust Valley high school auditorium. In an effort to ensure an exciting and seamless transition from middle school to high school we will introduce high school administrators and K-12 Coordinators, review graduation requirements and standardized tests, introduce the IB program, illustrate an overview of course selection in each subject area, present Naviance and begin a preliminary discussion of the college application process. Most importantly, we will offer an opportunity for parents to ask any questions that you may have with respect to your child(ren)’s transition to the high school. On behalf of the high school and middle school administrators, we look forward to seeing all of you on Tuesday, November 30, 2010. Have a happy and healthy Thanksgiving holiday. Sincerely, H. Thomas Hogan, Principal, LVMS Kieran McGuire, Principal, LVHS http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1376 Tue, 16 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Who says learning only takes place Monday through Friday? On a recent Saturday, eighteen third grade students from the Locust Valley Central School District participated in the ninth annual “PEAK Festival” sponsored by the Nassau Music Educators Association (NMEA) and the N.Y. State School Music Association (NYSSMA). The festival gave students an opportunity to participate in musical activities including musical movement, improvisation, dancing, drumming and choral singing. The day culminated in an informal concert given by all participants for parents and friends. The students were selected by their music teachers, Mrs. Jane Benstock and Mrs. Christine Hujber, for their musical abilities and enthusiasm. Thanks to Mrs. Benstock and Mrs. Hujber for taking time out of their Saturday to enrich these young musicians! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1377 Tue, 16 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Jesters presented the hilarious comedy “Fools” and did not disappoint audiences at this weekend's performances. Have you heard the News?!? It is bigger than the plague in Odessa! Leon Tolchinsky has landed a terrific job as a schoolteacher in the idyllic Russian hamlet of Kulyenchikov. What he does not know is that the town has been cursed with chronic stupidity for 200 years. The desperate townspeople have hired Leon hoping he can break the curse. However, they forget to tell him that if he stays in Kulenchikov for more than 24 hours and fails to break the curse he also becomes stupid. Will love and comedy triumph? Hey, it's Neil Simon! Serving up an evening of laughs were Ernest Scheiferstein, John LaMere, Nathaniel Szymkowicz, Amy Stapleton, Michael Harrington, Victoria Sedlak, George White, Zoe Vinegar, Jaclyn Collins and Mitchell Gaudagni. The show is directed by Abbe Gail Gross. Great job, Jesters! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1331 Mon, 15 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT High school and middle school students honored our nation’s Veterans in a touching ceremony that included speeches, a slide show, patriotic songs, and the reading of poems and letters actually written by soldiers during war times. Veterans in attendance included those who served in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War and the current war in Afghanistan. A recent LVHS alumnus completed his service in Afghanistan three years ago and he spoke about issues and ideas to the middle and high school students that they could relate to. He also spoke of fighting and living in “third world” countries and reminded students to appreciate all that they possess in this country, including the freedom that he and his fellow soldiers have fought and died for. A slide show of photos from each of the wars this country has had was presented with music that came from that era. Students read poems and letters from soldiers describing life as a Prisoner of War (POW), watching friends die in battle and missing their families back home. Some students read letters written by their own grandparents many years ago. The assembly brought together several touching aspects which reminded students of the sacrifices that veterans made and brought to life the reasons it is so important to honor them. Social Studies Department Leader David J. Ethe, social worker Marianne Masopust and community member Susan Carusi organized the assembly. “It is important to remind students in a respectful, heartfelt way, of the history of this nation and how our veterans have and currently are playing an important role in it”, Mr. Ethe explained. The Locust Valley Central School district was awarded a citation for hosting A Veteran’s Day Tribute. Special thanks and appreciation to the Veterans for attending and to the following special guests: David Gugerty, Counsel to the Democratic Party in Nassau County Legislature (representing Diane Yaturo, Minority Leader); Elizabeth Faughnan, Town of Oyster Bay Councilwoman; former Marine Robert Germino, representing Edward P. Mangano’s office; Kaye Wenninger - Operation Democracy; Doug Stebleton, Director of the film Operation Democracy; Maurice Renaud, son of Simone Renaud, Operation Democracy http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1374 Mon, 15 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Bayville Primary School and Bayville Intermediate School students are going cold turkey! That’s right, kindergarten through fifth graders are giving up television and video games this week in recognition of Parents as Reading Partners (PARP) week. In place of those electronic past times, children are encouraged to find other activities such as reading, exercising, or playing board games. Each child has a turkey and will fill out a feather every day that tells what electronic activity they gave up the previous day. Those feathers will be placed on the child’s turkey and displayed in the multipurpose room for all to see! “When the children see those full tail feathers on their turkeys, they will be reminded of all the things they can do instead of using electronics,” explained Assistant Principal Dorothy McManus. “This is a fun, interactive way to get children reading and moving. They are so excited to put the tail feathers on the turkey and therefore don’t hesitate to turn that TV off!” The Bayville PTA sponsors PARP and is offering encouragement to the students going cold turkey! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1375 Mon, 15 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT There is no better way to learn the importance of Veterans Day than from veterans themselves. Locust Valley Intermediate School students had this opportunity when veterans from the organization United States Volunteers America (USV-A) visited the school to share important and interesting information about our national anthem, flag, color guard, and even our country’s mascot, the Bald Eagle. Despite the generation gap, the veterans held the interest of these third through fifth-grade students, involving them in the program by teaching them the proper way to fold a flag (the kids did a great job with this!), having them perform as a color guard unit, and asking them engaging questions. LVI music teacher Jane Benstock arranged for the visit and led the entire school in a beautiful rendition of “The Star Spangled Banner” for their visitors. “This was a wonderful way to teach children about civics in a fun and engaging manner,” Mrs. Benstock explained. Veterans from the USV-A travel all over the country, giving presentations to schools at no cost. Students left this important assembly with a greater respect for those who serve in the military and the U.S. flag. Each student also received a handheld flag of their own to take home. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1332 Mon, 08 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT What does a big blue and orange dragon know about teamwork? Well, if he’s the NY Islander’s mascot Sparky, then he’s learned a lot about teamwork from watching his team work together. Sparky and some other members of the Islander’s family visited Ann MacArthur Primary School and Locust Valley Intermediate School to teach the students in kindergarten through fifth grade about the importance of teamwork and listening to their coaches (teachers), general manager (principal) and being great players (students). With Sparky’s comical and energetic personality, students at both schools giggled their way through the presentation as they absorbed the information. “The assembly was so much fun for the children, that they couldn’t help but understand the message,” explained Locust Valley Elementary School Principal Dr. Sophia Gary. “It’s an important lesson to learn since teamwork is essential to their success in so many areas.” The presentation was interactive, as volunteers from the audience played a dress-up game in which four students competed against one teacher to see who could get dressed in an entire hockey goalie’s uniform the fastest. The students quickly saw that teamwork won the game! The teacher, or the orange team, only had an inattentive Sparky to help her, and therefore could not keep up with the Blue team, which worked together to beat the clock! The game brought the lesson about teamwork to life and was lots of fun for the students. Students in Bayville Primary School and Bayville Intermediate School will enjoy the same lesson from Sparky and his friends later in the year. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1333 Mon, 08 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT CHANGE IN CALENDAR Dear Parents and Students, Financial Aid is a serious consideration for any student attending college. We realize that many of you may need more information about the financial aid process, the type of aid available and the way in which you go about applying for aid. With college application deadlines drawing near, we have set aside the evening of Tuesday, November 16, 2010 at 7:00PM to host our “Financial Aid Workshop.” Our goal is for all of you to better understand this daunting process. PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A CHANGE FROM THE DISTRICT CALENDAR. This evening will NOT be on November 9 as indicated on the District calendar. We are truly fortunate to have Dr. Jacquelyn Nealon, Vice President for Enrollment, Communications and Marketing Admissions of NYIT as our guest speaker. Dr. Nealon will give an overview of the FAFSA form, discuss the CSS profile and review critical deadlines. Most importantly, she will provide valuable information with respect to the entire financial aid process, provide line by line suggestions for each question on the FAFSA application and answer any questions you have relative to securing financial assistance. For more detailed information or to download relevant forms please visit the FAFSA website at www.fafsa.ed.gov . Please join us in the high school cafeteria for this extremely important seminar. The counselors and I look forward to seeing you there! Sincerely yours, Rebecca Gottesman Assistant Principal Locust Valley High School http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1326 Mon, 08 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Girls Varsity Cross Country team placed second in the Class B Nassau County Championships at Bethpage State Park. Congratulations to Melissa Bales, Madeline Casalino, Grainne O'Neill, Siobhan O'Neill, Victoria Siliato, Riley Monck-Rowley and Candice Cody. Outstanding performances by first year runners, Melissa Bales, Madeline Casalino, and Grainne O'Neill, which qualified them to compete in the New York State Championships on Saturday November 13 in Pawling, New York. Congratulations to our Coaches Bill Willson and James Rogin and to all of our student-athletes!! Good luck this Saturday! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1327 Mon, 08 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT There will be a two hour delayed opening today, Friday, November 5th, due to a power outage. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1316 Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Middle School Girls Tennis Cancelled for Thursday, Nov. 4th http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1313 Thu, 04 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Interact Club held a successful blood drive, which attracted students, faculty, and community members to participate for a good cause. The Interact Club holds many events for the benefit of various charities, including a Red Cross Blood Drive twice each year. The event turned the LVHS mini-theater into a make-shift medical facility for the day. Donors are screened by nurses to ensure they are healthy enough to donate blood and after donating, snacks such as cookies and juice are provided. Thank you to the LVHS Interact Club for another successful event to benefit those in need. The club’s next blood drive will be held on March 3 from 7:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the LVHS mini-theater. Mark your calendars and come out to support the Interact Club’s efforts! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1314 Thu, 04 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Please be advised that there will be NO 6th grade Intramurals on Thursday, November 4th. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1306 Wed, 03 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT On Saturday October 30, the Varsity Girls Cross Country team finished 2nd in the class B conference race (4th overall out of 14 teams) and qualified as a team to compete in the Nassau County Championship race Saturday November 6, 2:15 at Bethpage State Park. The team was led by Senior Melissa Bales, and 8th grader Madeline Casalino. The other team members included Grainne O'Neill, Siobhan O'Neill, Riley Monck-Rowley, Victoria Siliato, and Candice Cody. Not only did these athletes perform well enough to qualify for the county meet, they also ran their personal best times of the season! Congratulations to our Lady Falcons and also our coaches, Coach Bill Willson and James Rogin. Way to go! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1296 Mon, 01 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Varsity field hockey game today at 6:45 at CI moved (thunderstorms expected tonight) to Thursday TOMORROW 10/28 at LVHS at 4:15…vs. North Shore. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1293 Wed, 27 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Senior Varsity Soccer goalie Mike Lejuez has earned Conference 8 player of the week honors as he led his team to two victories without giving up a goal. In the first game of the week Lejuez earned his fourth shutout of the season as he blanked the undefeated conference leader, helping his team earn a 1-0 win. Although he was unable to start the second game because he was taking the ACTs, he entered the game late in the first half with his team trailing 0-1. Lejuez blanked the opponent the rest of the way as the team earned the 2- victory. Mike was voted player of the week by the Conference 8 coaches. Congratulations, Mike! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1289 Tue, 26 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT LVHS Junior Courtney Miller and LVMS eighth grader Charles Stacy have been chosen to perform in the Secondary Level Long Island String Festival on Sunday Nov.14 at Massapequa High School. Congratulations to both students and to their Orchestra teacher Mrs. Carol Buzzeo! Middle School students Christine Carroll, Pamela Guerra, Michael Madsen, Jessie Mae Maiden and Eric Schieferstein were selected as members of the Hofstra University Middle School Honors Band Festival. The Concert is on Friday, October 29 at Hofstra University. Congratulations to all of the young musicians and their teachers, Mr. Vincent Guerra and Miss Lisa Conti. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1290 Tue, 26 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Girls Varsity Soccer game CANCELLED Boys Varsity Soccer game against Friends will begin at 4:00 p.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1284 Mon, 25 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Homecoming was a perfect day of celebration! Alumni from many different graduating classes came to LVHS to cheer on their alma mater. Record numbers turned out to cheer on the Falcons as they took on Floral Park High School. The day started with the annual Homecoming parade of floats depicting this year’s “Disney” theme. The creativity of Locust Valley students was evident in each of the floats! A big thank you goes to Falcon Pride Athletic Booster Club for providing a delicious barbecue for everyone, to the Athletic Council for organizing all of the Homecoming activities, and to the Parent Council for the support provided to make this day such a huge success! The District is also grateful to our local police department and fire department for their help in making the parade fun and safe! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1285 Mon, 25 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Homecoming 2010 Please join us in a day of celebration for Locust Valley High School’s Homecoming on October 23rd. The entire community is invited to help us welcome back the Locust Valley High School Alumni. The festivities will include the following events: 12:00 p.m.: The annual Parade of Floats, in which the freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior classes will show off their homemade floats depicting this year’s homecoming theme – Disney! The parade will begin at noon in Centre Island and continue through Bayville and Locust Valley before arriving at the high school. 12:30 p.m.: The Varsity Girls and Boys Soccer teams will each play a game at the high school at noon. Go Falcons! 1:00 p.m.: Once again, Falcon Pride will generously provide a delicious barbecue for community members and alumni attending Homecoming. This is always a wonderful treat! 2:10 p.m. Presentation to Falcon Pride Athletic Booster Club and Singing of the National Anthem by LVHS Senior Jackie Collins. 2:30 p.m.: Last, but certainly not least, will be the Varsity Football game against Floral Park High School. We hope you will join us in cheering on the Locust Valley Falcons!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1225 Fri, 22 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Dear Locust Valley Alumnus: I hope that this finds you healthy and happy! It is a pleasure to invite you to participate in our Locust Valley Homecoming Alumni Activities which will take place on Saturday, October 23, 2010 at our High School. Obviously, although you have been “out-of-sight,” you definitely have not been “out-of-mind!” The following is a list of activities which will take place that day and which we hope that you will be able to attend: 12:30 P.M. Varsity Boys’ Soccer against Roosevelt H.S. Varsity Girls’ Soccer against Carle Place H.S. Parade of Class Floats 1:00 P.M. Falcon Pride Homecoming Barbecue 2:10 p.m. Presentation to Falcon Pride Athletic Booster Club and Singing of the National Anthem by LVHS Senior Jackie Collins. 2:30 P.M. Varsity Football against Floral Park H.S. On behalf of our Board of Education, our students, our faculty and other members of our school community, I sincerely hope that you will be able to join us on October 23rd. All of us are truly looking forward to welcoming you home and to seeing you back at LVHS!! Warmest Regards, Anna F. Hunderfund, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1226 Fri, 22 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students taking PSATs should report to the LVHS Cafeteria at 7:45 a.m. with #2 pencils and a four function calculator. Students who have been approved for accommodations through College Board should report to the library at 7:45 a.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1234 Fri, 15 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Individual College Visits for the week of October 18th through October 22: A representative from Colgate University will be visiting at 8:00am on Monday, Oct. 18. They will be meeting with students in the guidance suite. Interested students please come to guidance for a pass. A representative from Washington & Lee will be visiting on Tues., Oct. 19, at 9:00am. They will meet in the guidance suite. Please come to guidance for a pass. On Thursday, Oct. 21, a representative from Connecticut College will be in the guidance suite. Interested students please come to guidance for a pass. A Mini College Fair will take place on October 18th at 9:00 a.m. in the High School Mini-Theater. The following colleges and universities will be represented: Albany College of Pharm & Health Sci. DeVry College Dowling College Fairleigh Dickenson Iona College L.I.U.-Brooklyn Campus Macaulay Honors College Manhattanville Michigan State University Mount St. Vincent Niagra University Nichols College-MA Ohio State University St. Joseph's College (Maine) St. Thomas of Aquinas College Stevenson University - MD SUNY Institute of Technology SUNY Maritime College SUNY-Purchase U.S. Navy University of Connecticut University of North Florida Washington College (MD) http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1243 Fri, 15 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT MS Field Hockey game rescheduled for October 20th at 4:30 p.m. at Clarke MS. Varsity Girls Soccer game rescheduled for October 25th. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1244 Fri, 15 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT There will be no sixth grade intramurals today - Thursday, October 14th http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1228 Thu, 14 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.newsday.com/sports/high-school/football/minicozzi-s-231-yards-4-tds-lead-locust-valley-1.2347387 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1229 Thu, 14 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT The LVCSD Board of Education is thrilled to announce that the Falcon Pride Booster Club has given our district another incredible "gift" in the form of a beautiful Concession Stand and Comfort Station. In recognition of their acceptance of this "gift," the Board members and the administration hosted a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Saturday, October 9th in prior to our Varsity Football Game. We are extremely grateful to and thrilled to publicly acknowledge the following individuals and businesses for their exceptionally generous assistance with this wonderful project: Falcon Pride Executive Board members, Michael DeMaria M.D., President; Steve Minicozzi, Project Manager; Cathy Rapelje, Vice President; Jake Jacobi, Financial Officer; Joan Florio, Recording Secretary; and Ray Collins, Tom Craft, Al DeStefanis, Jack Dolce, Joe Florio, Rich Hagner, Jamie Scott, Gary Terrell, Ed Tini, Frank Venturino School Community members and organizations: Blackman Plumbing Supply, Bulldog Masonry, Sal Caiazzo, Cozy Realty, Incorporated, Jed Dioguardi, Duplex Electrical Supply, Anna Gallo, Mario and Kelly Gallo, General Utilities, John Hotine, AF Kaufman Plumbing Supply, George Koskiano, Paul Longo, Senator Carl Marcellino, Ed Minicozzi Jr., Ed Minicozzi Sr., Carlos Morales, Ed Morales, Frank Morales, John Notaro, Al Paniccia, Carlo Paniccia, Robert Plummer, Rocco Ranaldo Jr., Mike Ryan, Eric Scheblein, and Mike Wulforst. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1212 Tue, 12 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Individual College Visits for the week of October 11th through October 13th. A representative from Penn State will be visiting at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 12th and will meet with students in the guidance suite. Interested students please come to guidance for a pass. On Thursday, Oct. 14th, at 11:00 a.m., a representative from Bentley University will be in the guidance suite. Interested students please come to guidance for a pass. On Friday, Oct. 15th, at 11:15 a.m., a representative from New York University will be in the guidance suite. Interested students may come to guidance for a pass. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1217 Fri, 08 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Summer may be long over, but in every classroom on a recent fall afternoon, students at Locust Valley Intermediate School recalled one of their favorite summer activities – reading! LVI teachers volunteered to lead summer reading book talk groups and engaged students with wonderfully creative activities such as Jeopardy, art projects, and more. These activities encouraged students to think about and discuss the characters, writing, and plots of the books they chose to read. Students selected summer reading from a list of books put together by school librarian Anne Joyce. There was a mix of non-fiction and fiction, with many genres represented. “It’s important that students are reading over the summer and having positive shared experiences with their classmates and teachers when they return to school in the fall,” stated Dr. Sophia Gary, Principal. “Summer reading in the Locust Valley schools is an important tradition, and it fosters a sense of academic accountability among students beyond the school year.” A summer reading raffle was open to all students who read from the summer reading list and then completed and handed in a book summary. When students submitted their book summaries, they received a raffle ticket in return. Just over 400 book summaries were turned in by LVI students based on their summer reading. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1218 Fri, 08 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Sixth Grade Intramurals are cancelled today. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1213 Thu, 07 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT There will be a ten-minute early dismissal at all schools on Friday, October 8th. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1214 Thu, 07 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School recently hosted an International Baccalaureate Roundtable for teachers of the IB course “Theory of Knowledge.” The gathering was a unique opportunity for teachers to share successful techniques and best practices with colleagues and then to take these skills back to their own classrooms. The roundtable discussion included 16 IB Theory of Knowledge teachers from 11 schools. Discussion included lesson plans and resources that teachers have used with success, as well as various changes to this course. "The IB Theory of Knowledge (TOK) Roundtable provided a forum to address any questions teachers had regarding the curriculum and also offered an opportunity to look collectively at and discuss the IB TOK assessments and how best to prepare students for these examinations,” explained Robert Buonaspina, Locust Valley High School’s International Baccalaureate Coordinator. Attendees included teachers from Locust Valley High School as well as Bay Shore High School, St. Edmund Prep, Brooklyn Friends Academy, Clarkstown High School, Commack High School, Washington Irving High School, Northport High School, South Side High School, and West Islip High School. “The end result of the roundtable will be the educational benefits to the students, who will reap the rewards of their teachers own continuing education,” said Mr. Buonaspina. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1208 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT JV Girls Tennis Cancelled MS Girls Tennis Match Cancelled - Team should meet in gym at 3:00 p.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1209 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Varsity and JV girls tennis matches cancelled today - all levels meeting in gym after school. 7th Grade Boys Soccer Cancelled - Moved to October 22 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1204 Mon, 04 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT Creating world peace may be challenging for primary school students, but “whirled” peace was a meaningful and fun way for students at Bayville Primary School to be a part of the Pinwheels for Peace Project. A celebration of International Peace Day, the event is intended to make a visual statement about Peace for all to see. Throughout the school, kindergarten, first, and second graders created colorful paper pinwheels to display in front of the school at the flagpole. It is estimated that nearly 3.5 million pinwheels were spinning in the wind around the world on September 21 to recognize International Peace Day. Bayville Primary students are proud that they are counted in those numbers! Assistant Principal Dorothy McManus said the activity was a fun way for students to learn about International Peace efforts. “It is also important for children to feel that they are part of something meaningful,” she added. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1197 Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT LVHS Senior Craig Casazza has been recognized by the National Hispanic Recognition Program (NHRP). Being honored by this organization is an important academic recognition, as the program sends a list of all recognized students to subscribing colleges and universities that are particularly interested in academically outstanding seniors of Hispanic/Latino heritage. Craig received this honor based on his GPA and his achievement on the PSAT in his Junior year of high school. There are only approximately 5,000 students recognized with this honor each year in the entire country. Congratulations to Craig for distinguishing himself as a high achiever among high school students across the United States! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1198 Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT MS tennis at Herricks moved from today to 10/5 8th grade girls soccer at Herricks moved from today to 10/8 7th grade girls soccer cancelled and moved to 10/8 Varsity girls tennis cancelled at Farmingdale moved to 10/18 Jv girls tennis match AT HOME is moved to 10/4 AT WHEATLEY MS field hockey moved from today to 10/7 Varsity and JV Girls and boys soccer games today moved to 10/4 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1199 Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT A College MIni-Fair will take place in the High School Mini-Theater on Monday, October 4th at 1:00 p.m. All seniors are encouraged to attend. The following colleges will be represented: Emanuel College, Boston Baruch College College of the Holy Cross, Mass. Emerson College Florida Atlantic University Florida State University High Point Univeristy, NC Meredith College (NC) Molloy College Muhlenberg College Nassau Community College Polytechnic Institute of NYU Randolph Macon College Roanoke College Salisbury University St. Joseph's Univ., PA SUNY Buffalo Towson Trinity College U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Uniiversity of Tampa University of Hartford University of New Hampshire University of So. Florida University of the Arts Ursinus College Vaughn College Wilkes University Individual College Visits for the week of October 4th through October 8. A representative from Boston College will be visiting at 9:00am on Monday, Oct. 4. They will be meeting with students in the guidance suite. Interested students please come to guidance for a pass. There will be 3 colleges visiting us on Tuesday, Oct. 5. A representative from the University of Vermont will be in the guidance suite at 8:30am. A representative from Providence College will be meeting with students at 9:20am in the guidance suite. Stetson University will be in the guidance suite at the start of 5th period at 10:53. Interested students may come to guidance for a pass. There will be 3 colleges visiting us on Wednesday, Oct. 6. A representative from Bryant University will be in the guidance suite at 10:30am. At 11:30, a representative from Susquehanna University will be in guidance and at 1:00pm, a representative for Washington College will be in the guidance suite. Interested students please come to guidance for a pass. On Friday, Oct. 8, at 11:00am a representative from Haverford College will be in the guidance suite. Interested students may come to guidance for a pass. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1200 Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT 6th Grade Intramurals - CANCELLED Click here for the entire list of cancelled games and indoor practice locations. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1189 Thu, 30 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT The BPTA Family Fall Fair is rescheduled to October 8 at 3:30 p.m. due to inclement weather forecasted for the original date of October 1st. The BPTA plant pick up is also rescheduled to October 8 from 1 - 5 p.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1192 Thu, 30 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Dressed as characters from history, fifth-graders in Mrs. Palmer’s class at LVI presented “5PTV Historical Poetry,” a project which integrated reading, social studies, vocabulary development, art and costume design, public speaking, and lots of fun! This ambitious group wasted no time as they began preparing their individual presentations which included memorizing their poems, creating colorful posters depicting the main idea of their poems and wearing costumes relevant to the time period . Poems reflected historical topics ranging from a description of the first people to cross the land bridge to the inauguration of George Washington and the Boston Tea Party to the first man on the moon. With powdered wigs, confederate hats, tea sets, and other creative props, students were filmed reciting their poems while a classmate held up the poster that each presenter created depicting an event in the poem. “This project is a collaboration of many important curriculum areas,” said Mrs. Palmer. “It is a fun way for students to learn about different historical events in a short period of time.” She further explained that videotaping the presentations allows students to critique themselves and to show off their skills to their parents. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1187 Wed, 29 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Learning to read color words has never been so much fun! Students in Lori Duvall’s Kindergarten class at Ann MacArthur Primary School performed a choral reading of the story “Pete the Cat, I Love My White Shoes,” by Eric Litwin. As Mrs. Duvall read the story aloud, the entire class chimed in singing along with the chorus and holding up signs that had the appropriate color word for the verse in the story. The activity, which was videotaped so parents could see it at Back to School Night, served many educational purposes. Mrs. Duvall explained that while having fun, the children were reviewing their color words, working cooperatively as a group, following directions, and speaking before a group. In the story, Pete the Cat walks down the street wearing his brand-new white shoes. Along the way, as he steps in various items, his shoes change from white to red to blue and to brown. The kindergarten class learned that no matter what you step in just keep walking along and singing your song, because “it’s all good!” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1188 Wed, 29 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Varsity Field Hockey CANCELLED - rescheduled for Oct. 18th JV Field Hockey CANCELLED - rescheduled for Oct. 18th http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1176 Tue, 28 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT It is with great pride and pleasure that the LV Music Department announces that senior Caroline Brugo and junior Christina Boutros have been accepted into the All-State Women’s Chorus. Both Students earned a perfect score of Level VI A+ 100 on their NYSSMA solos. Senior Zoe Vinegar was accepted as an alternate in the NYSSMA Piano Showcase. This is truly one of the highest honors a high school musician can receive. The All-State Women’s Chorus members are chosen from hundreds of students throughout New York State who participated in the 2010 NYSSMA Festival. Caroline and Christina will perform in a concert at the NYSSMA conference in Rochester, New York this December. Zoe earned a perfect score of Level VI A+ 100, however, of the 76 applicants, only 12 were chosen to perform. Caroline is a soprano and has been a member of Concert Chorale and Chamber Singers for the past four years. Christina, though a soprano, will be singing with the alto section. Christina has been a member of Concert Chorale and Chamber Singers for the past three years. Both students are also members of the Locust Valley Jesters. Zoe is a member of the High School String Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, and the Locust Valley Jesters as well. Congratulations to all three of these marvelous musicians! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1150 Tue, 28 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Cross Country team participated in the annual Great Cow Harbor 10-Kilometer Run. LVHS has been participating in this event for nearly 20 years. This year, 21 runners, including five alumni and three parents, participated. What a great community effort! Senior Victoria Siliato placed fifth in her class with a time of 54 minutes, 19 seconds. LVHS Junior Kevin Jania placed fifth in his class as well with a time of 43 minutes and 38 seconds. He also placed 177th out of approximately 6,000 runners. This event is one of the most prestigious foot races in the country and nationally ranked. Runner's World has named the Cow Harbor Race as one of the top 100 races in the USA. Way to go Locust Valley!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1175 Mon, 27 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Check out the new athletics slide show on the Athletics page to see photos of LVHS athletes in various sports. New photos are always being added. Click here to get to the Athletics page. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1172 Fri, 24 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Mini College Fair - Monday, September 27, 9:00 a.m. in the mini-theater. All seniors are encouraged to attend. Please see below for a list of colleges that will be represented. There will also be individual college visits taking place as follows: On Tuesday, Sept. 28th, a representative from Siena College will be in the guidance suite at 9:30AM and a representative from the University of New Haven will be visiting our school at 10:45AM in the guidance suite. On Wednesday, Sept. 29 there will be two colleges visiting LVHS. At 8:00AM, a representative from Case Western Reserve Univ. will be in the guidance suite. At 11:15, Northwestern University will be visiting us in the guidance suite. On Friday, October 1, a representative from the University of Delaware will be in the guidance suite at 2:00PM. Any student needing a pass for guidance, please see Mrs. Allotta. Schools Attending Mini Fair on Sept. 27: COLLEGE Adelphi University Drew University Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising Franklin Pierce University Hobart & William Smith Colleges Hofstra University James Madison University John Jay College Juniata College Kings College L.I.M. (Laboratory Institute Merchandising) LeMoyne College Leslie College -Cambridge, MA Manhattan College Mass. College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences Monmouth University Roger Williams University Sacred Heart Salve Regina Univeristy St. John's University SUNY Albany SUNY Geneseo SUNY Oswego SUNY-Brockport SUNY-Canton University of Rhode Island Virginia Commonwealth University Westchester University http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1168 Wed, 22 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Today's Varsity football game (Thursday, September 16th) has been moved up to 4:15 p.m. from 7:00 p.m. The game is being played at Seaford HS at 4:30 p.m. The buses will leave at 2:15 p.m. Cheer bus leaves at 3:15 p.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1138 Thu, 16 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School is proud to announce that for the second year in a row, two of our students are National Merit Scholarship Semi-Finalists. Our new honorees are Mary Leah Milnes and Emma DeBeer Charno. Both students are members of our senior class. Both will be eligible to qualify as National Merit Finalists. The students earned this outstanding national recognition from the College Board for their exceptional achievements on the Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Tests (PSAT). Based on student achievement and sponsored annually by the College Board, the ability to earn this designation is an honor which is afforded to only 1% of the more than 1,500,000 students from across our country who achieve the highest scores on the PSATs which are taken by juniors across our country every year. In addition, the College Board shares the names of students who earn these distinctions with colleges and universities. Advancing to National Merit Semifinalist status will afford these extremely academically talented students with the opportunity to qualify for more than $36,000,000 in National Merit Scholarships which will be announced during the spring of 2011. Last year, our two National Merit Semifinalists, Eric Padilla and Corinne Hastings went on to qualify for Finalist status. Eric is attending Harvard University and Corinne is attending Vassar College. Congratulations to Mary Leah and Emma for distinguishing themselves in such an outstanding manner and continuing our tradition of excellence! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1139 Thu, 16 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Attention Parents and Guardians: All sophomores and juniors should sit for the PSAT exam, which will be given on October 16th only. There is also still time to have your child sign up for the free PSAT prep course. Prep course details were specified in the letter which was sent home last week*. Based on parent feedback we will also be offering an abbreviated morning review class for the students who cannot attend the afternoon sessions. Please note that signing up for the PSAT prep course does not automatically mean that your child is registered to take the PSAT. You must still also register for the PSAT exam itself, through the Guidance Office. Students who wish to register should please bring a check for $20.00 made payable to the Locust Valley Central School District. Guidance counselors will facilitate registration. Unlike the SAT, you cannot register for the PSAT online. *Click here for the letter about the PSAT prep course Click here forthe letter sent to all sophomores and their families Click here for the letter sent to all juniors and their families http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1135 Wed, 15 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT In stiff national competition with high school entries from across the country, our Locust Valley High School Literary Magazine, Perspective, earned a first-place award from the American Scholastic Press Association for the 2010 edition of the magazine. This award comes on the heels of the magazine receiving second place honors last year in the same competition. “We are very proud that our efforts to improve were recognized,” said Perspective advisor Ms. Amy Rosenbaum. For the first time, the 2010 edition of Perspective was submitted recently to another competition, the Columbia Scholastic Press Association competition. Much to our delight, the editors and writers of Perspective distinguished themselves once again by earning a silver medal! The literary magazine, written, edited, and designed by students, was judged in the categories of layout, organization, writing, artwork, editing, and more. Ted Cannone, K-12 Coordinator for English Language Arts and Reading in the Locust Valley Central School District said that the awards given to Perspective are a testament to the talent of the Locust Valley High School student body. “Ms. Rosenbaum and her staff exemplify the spirit of creativity and dedication that mark great literary magazines. They brought out the best in the contributors and in themselves,” he said. Congratulations to the Perspective staff, their advisor, and all the contributors on a job extremely well done! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1136 Wed, 15 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Girls JV Soccer game has been cancelled today, September 16, 2010. This game will be rescheduled at a later date. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1137 Wed, 15 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School/Middle School is home to a new and improved September 11th memorial. The flagpole in front of the school has been adorned with beautiful landscaping which has enhanced the memorial and plaque memorializing the victims of 9/11. Social Studies Chairperson David Ethe took his Participation in Government class to the memorial where they learned the patriotic art of properly folding the American flag. Students took turns as one would read the specific directions, while two other students folded the flag to form a tri-cornered hat shape that represents colonial soldiers during the war for American independence. The students then held a memorial service for the entire school with a reading by Mr. Ethe which stressed the importance of remembering what happened on September 11th, 2001. Following a moment of silence, Locust Valley High School Senior, Nick Parente, played “Taps” on the trumpet, and the Locust Valley High School Concert Chorale sang the Star-Spangled Banner. “It is important for students to remember this tragic event and to commemorate those who died on September 11,” said Mr. Ethe. “We should draw strength from each other, and look ahead with hope.” Students decorated the 9/11 memorial at the flagpole with flowers and American flags, and lined the student walkway from the parking lot with American flags and signs that read “Never Forget” reminding the student body as they arrived of the almost 3,000 Americans who died on September 11, 2001. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund and Locust Valley High School Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire visited the memorial site with the students. On the high school hill, flags were also displayed to form a “9-11”, which could be seen from the entrance of the building as an additional reminder. High School junior Laura Doukas donated the flags used to decorate the memorial, the hill, and the student walkway. The memorial is even more meaningful due to the contributions from community members. While the memorial was already a very special part of the school, the enhancements are representative of the value the district places on this site. Walter J. Moretto, Inc. Mason Supply donated the pavers; Mario Fischetti Nursery donated the plants; and Locust Valley Central School District’s own Greg Stimola created the design and landscaping, as well as performing the construction necessary to enhance the memorial garden. The district is grateful and offers thanks to all who helped and contributed! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1132 Tue, 14 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School sophomore Bailey Bondy, has been named a 2010 U.S. Squash Scholar Athlete by U.S. SQUASH, a national squash organization. The group credits Bailey’s success on the squash court and most importantly, in the classroom, as a testament to her hard work and dedication. “It is an impressive accomplishment for a high school student to achieve such tremendous success as an athlete while maintaining equal success in academics,” said Mark J. Dantuono, Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics for Locust Valley Central School District. “We are extremely proud of Bailey’s accomplishments on the field and in the classroom.” Bailey’s accomplishment can be viewed on www.ussquash.com as well as in an article in the October issue of Squash Magazine. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1134 Tue, 14 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School graduate Sophia Ioannou (Class of 2010) has been selected by the Long Island Fund for Women and Girls (LIFWG) to receive the 2010 Charlotte Shapiro—Lillian McCormick Young Woman Leader Award. Recipients of this award must not only demonstrate leadership qualities and an awareness of those challenges associated with promoting greater gender equality, but also a “take charge” approach towards addressing them. Sophia is a strong leader and role model to her peers and has a passion for taking on projects that promote greater equality in both her school and community. She is described by her guidance counselor as intelligent, ambitious, and poised and is the type of person who will be successful in “helping others progress towards a peaceful, tolerant world.” Sophia’s accomplishments at Locust Valley High School include initiating a “Sexual Assault and Dating Violence Awareness Week” and winning a competition sponsored by the Nassau division of the ACLU asking contributors to write about civil liberties; Sophia’s entry essay, which supported same-sex unions, earned her an internship at the NYCLU office in the fall of her senior year. Sophia is currently attending New York University and plans to work towards a law degree that would lead her to a career in the State Department. The award will be presented at the LIFWG Women Achievers Against the Odds Annual Breakfast. Ms. Shapiro and Ms. McCormick, for whom the award is named, co-founded the Women on the Job education and advocacy project for women’s workplace rights and equality in 1981. The project merged with LIFWG in 2007 and the Shapiro—McCormick leadership award has become an integral part of the Fund’s annual breakfast. Congratulations, Sophia! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1128 Mon, 13 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT A representative from The George Washington University will be visiting the Locust Valley High School Guidance Office on Monday Sept 13 at 1:15pm. This representative will give an overview of the application process, information about the school and will answer questions. All seniors interested in applying to George Washington Unviersity are strongly encouraged to attend this visit. Please visit the guidance office on Monday morning to pick up a pass. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1120 Wed, 08 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students from kindergarten to high school were all smiles as the 2010-2011 school year began on Tuesday, September 7, 2010. In the primary schools, Kindergarten students learned their new routines and new expectations– where to put their lunch boxes, how to get around the school, and of course, how to make lots of new friends. Even our youngest students started their first day and the new school year by learning as much as they could! Reading, writing, arithmetic, art, music, physical education and many more were among the subjects about which students learned. At our High School and Middle School, many of our students engaged in “team work.” It was a very successful day in all of our LVCSD schools! Please remember that all schools are closed Thursday, September 9th and Friday, September 10th. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1117 Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley athletes are already preparing for the fall season with early morning practices. Each of the fall teams is performing extensive strength and conditioning drills as well as developing skills and talents which are essential to successfully compete in their particular sport. Teams practice before the start of school in order to meet requirements which must be met in order to qualify to compete in the athletic contests which begin in early September. Mark Dantuono, our Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics laid the groundwork for our fall season by meeting with coaches and providing an orientation for the parents of our football players. Another orientation for the parents of our other high school athletes will take place on September 1st at 6:30 p.m. in the Mini-Theater. The purpose of these meetings is to provide parents with important guidelines and expectations for the student athletes and an opportunity for parents to ask questions. Before official practices began this week, Locust Valley athletes attended strength and conditioning sessions, as well as camps and clinics to enhance their skills during the off season. “Pre-season camp is essential because it provides our coaches with the opportunity to improve student athleticism and get an edge on the competition,” explained Mr. Dantuono. Everyone is looking forward to the start of the fall season and to cheering the Falcons on to victory!! Click here to view the fall sports schedules. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1094 Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT All fall Middle School student athletes will meet with their coaches at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 7th. Students should report to the following locations: Football - MS/HS mini-theater Girls Tennis - Tennis Courts Boys and Girls Soccer - Gymnasium Cross Country - MS Cafeteria Field Hockey - Gymnasium http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1095 Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Learning about new teaching strategies, analyzing data to enhance student achievement, and more, the faculty and staff returned to school for Superintendent’s Conference Day on September 1st. The energy and enthusiasm was contagious as teachers shared ideas for the coming year, learned about the latest technology available to them, and prepared their classrooms for a new school year. The first day of school for students is Tuesday, September 7th. Faculty and staff members met with administrators, and participated in sessions with guest speakers during our Superintendent’s Conference Day, on September 1, 2010. “We are thrilled to see our faculty back with such enthusiasm for the start of the school year. The faculty, staff, and administration have been preparing for the students’ return on September 7th,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund. “We have so much for which to be proud and we are looking forward to many wonderful and exciting challenges in the coming year.” Please refer to the 2010-2011 school calendar and directory for information regarding many of the events during which we look forward to meeting with parents and community members. Below you will find a reminder regarding some extremely important events which are scheduled for September. September 14: HS Open House, 6:30 p.m. September 15: Board of Education Meeting, 7:30 p.m., MS/HS Mini-Theater September 22: LVI/BI Back to School Night, 6:30 p.m. September 23: MS Open House, 6:30 p.m. September 24: AMP/BP Back to School Night, 6:30 p.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1096 Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT Cristina Sorrento, a graduate of the LVHS Class of 2010, has been selected at Columbia University as a Science Research Fellow, in recognition of her talent and accomplishments in science and mathematics. Cristina has been identified as one of the top science students in the Class of 2014 at Columbia University. It is expected that only ten out of the 1,100 members of Columbia University’s Class of 2014 will be honored as Science Research Fellows. Becoming a Science Research Fellow guarantees Cristina a funded summer research fellowship in the laboratory of a Columbia science faculty member following her freshman year at Columbia, including both a monetary stipend and on-campus housing. Additionally, Cristina will have the opportunity to participate in a first-year science research seminar led by renowned science faculty members as well as receiving special access to the most elite research and fellowship opportunities. Cristina will now be affiliated with the Columbia Undergraduate Scholars Program (CUSP), which consists of a variety of activities in which scholars bond with one another; socialize with other scholar communities; host faculty, alumni and other guests; and explore the remarkable resources of Columbia and New York City. She will be the recipient of specialized advising from a designated science advisor in CUSP. At Locust Valley High School, Cristina was a semifinalist in both the Intel and Siemens Talent Search Competitions, was in the top 15 in the Class of 2010, and was a member of the National Honor Society, National Foreign Language Honor Society, and the New York State Science Honor Society. She aspires to be a surgeon and one day serve with Doctors Without Borders, combining her sensitivity for those less fortunate with her love for cultural immersion. Locust Valley High School Science Research Teacher, Christopher Hoppner said Cristina is extremely deserving of such an honor. “This recognition is really not a surprise to me, considering the caliber of student that she is, and her hard work ethic.” Cristina sent a message to Locust Valley students encouraging them to strive for the top. “Good luck and everything that has happened to me can happen to them too,” she said. Congratulations to Cristina and her family on this remarkable achievement! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1091 Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Central School District welcomed seven new faculty members during New Teacher Orientation beginning on August 27. These teachers were hired due to retirements and leave replacement needs. The newest members of the Locust Valley School District community were welcomed by our Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Anna Hunderfund, our Board of Education members as well as our district administrators. They were introduced to school administrators, curriculum leaders and colleagues, and were provided with information regarding many topics. In addition, they were given access to the classrooms and/or offices which they will be using to teach and/or meet with Locust Valley School District students throughout the 2010-2011 school year. The faculty members include Bryan Beach, High School Mathematics; Beth Deaner-Cohen, Primary School Library Media Specialist; Julie Feltman, Middle School Science; Rebecca Gottesman, High School Assistant Principal; Amanda Gerome, Middle School/High School Music; Kelly Reno, High School Guidance Counselor; Eva Suarez, High School Mathematics; and Richard Miller, Director of Special Education and Pupil Services. The Locust Valley Board of Education, administration, staff, faculty and students look forward to working with these new members of the faculty and wish them much success and all the best in the year to come! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1092 Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students may not be back to classes just yet, however, the JV and Varsity Football teams are hard at work on the fields. Football practice is underway and the teams are looking good! Coaches and players reported to practice on August 16 and will be very well prepared for the first game on September 11. Click here to see the 2010-2011 sports schedules. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1090 Thu, 26 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT Summer Math Packet for Incoming Sixth Grade Summer Math Packet for Incoming Seventh Grade Summer Math Packet for Incoming Eighth Grade http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1051 Mon, 02 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT LVHS Junior, Alex Rawa, has made the Long Island Scholastic Basketball team and will compete on that team in the 32nd Governor Hugh L. Carey Empire State Games. The games, which are played from July 21 -25, take place in Rochester, New York. Making this prestigious team is a testament to Alex’s basketball skills and positive attitude. Opening ceremonies are Wednesday, July 21 with games to follow on July 22 at 10 a.m. vs. Western New York, July 23 at 2 p.m. vs. New York City, and July 24 at 10 a.m. vs. Central NewYork. The outcomes of those three games will dictate whether Alex’s team will play in the medal rounds. Alex was one of 10 players selected to the team and is one of 6,000 athletes competing in 27 different athletic events in the summer’s games. Alex’s games can be followed at longislandbasketball.com. Congratulations, Alex!! We are rooting for you!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1038 Wed, 21 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} table.MsoTableGrid {mso-style-name:"Table Grid"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; border:solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt:solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-border-insideh:.5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev:.5pt solid windowtext; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} 2010-2011 Sports Season Starting Dates High School Grades 9-12 SPORT BY SEASON DATE OF FIRST PRATICE Fall Season B - Football August 16th - Monday G - Cheerleading September 7th - Tuesday G – Competition Cheerleading September 7th - Tuesday B/G – Cross Country August 30th - Monday G- Field Hockey August 30th - Monday B - Golf August 30th - Monday B/G – Soccer August 30th - Monday G- Tennis August 30th - Monday G - Volleyball August 30th - Monday Winter Season B/G - Basketball November 17th - Wednesday B/G - Bowling – varsity only November 17th - Wednesday B/G - Winter Track – varsity only November 17th - Wednesday B - Wrestling November 15th - Monday Spring Season B – Baseball March 7th - Monday G – Golf March 21st - Monday B/G – Lacrosse March 7th - Monday G- Softball March 7th - Monday B - Tennis March 21st - Monday B/G – Track & Field March 7th - Monday 2010-2011 Sports Season Starting Dates Middle School Grades 7 & 8 SPORT BY SEASON DATE OF FIRST PRATICE Fall Season B - Football September 13th - Monday G - Cheerleading September 13th - Monday G – Competition Cheerleading - combined September 13th - Monday B/G – Cross Country - combined September 13th - Monday G- Field Hockey - combined September 13th - Monday B/G – Soccer September 13th - Monday G- Tennis - combined September 13th - Monday Winter I Season B - Basketball November 8th - Monday G – Volleyball November 8th - Monday G - Cheerleading November 8th - Monday G – Competition Cheerleading November 8th - Monday Winter II Season G - Basketball January 18th - Tuesday B – Wrestling - combined January 18th - Tuesday Spring Season B – Baseball March 28th - Monday B/G – Lacrosse March 28th - Monday G- Softball March 28th - Monday B - Tennis March 28th - Monday B/G – Track & Field March 28th - Monday http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1036 Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Summer Recreation Program is in operation from June 28 to July 30 at Bayville Intermediate School. Ongoing registration takes place every Monday at Bayville Intermediate at 8:30 a.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1000 Mon, 28 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the LVMS 8th graders!! Good luck in the high school! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=1002 Mon, 28 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the Class of 2010! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=999 Sun, 27 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Dear Parents and Students, On our website, in the links below, please find our summer reading lists. Summer reading is very important for a number of reasons. First, it should be done for the joy of it. Second, it must be done because it is an assignment and it will enable each student to acquire knowledge, refine skills, and get off to a great start to the 2010-2011 school year by earning a good grade! Last but not least, summer reading also refreshes good habits and knowledge that students worked so hard to acquire during the 2009-2010 school year! Here’s hoping that you have a great summer and one filled with a great deal of reading! Sincerely, Your English Teachers Summer Reading Notes - 7th Grade Ann MacArthur Primary School Summer Reading List LVI Summer Reading List LVI Artists Storyboard MS Summer Reading List Grade 6 Suggested Summer Reading Assignment Summer Reading Notes - 8th Grade English 11IB Summer Assignment IB English 12HL - Summer Reading Task 2010 9th Grade Summer Reading Assignment HS Summer Reading Selections http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=997 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT AMP School Supply Lists: Kindergarten Grade 1 Grade 2 Bayville Primary School Supply Lists: Kindergarten Grade 1 Grade 2 Bayville Intermediate School Supply Lists: Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Locust Valley Intermediate School Supply Lists: Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Locust Valley Middle School Supply Lists for 6-8 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=998 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students in the enrichment program at Locust Valley Intermediate School and Bayville Intermediate School put the math and science skills they learned all year to practical use. The LVI students traveled to BI to work as a group building kites that they could actually fly. To build a kite that is functional, the classes had to use algebra, physics, art, and other academic skills as they worked cooperatively with materials such as nylon, dowels, string, and glue. The wrong ratios and measurements would create a kite that would be grounded. Creativity was abundant as the kites were all different shapes and colors. Enrichment teacher Joseph Aragonesi said the project shows the students that the material they are learning has an actual use in their lives. “They see that math and science skills are important and are needed for real-life scenarios.” The only thing the students could not control was the wind … another factor necessary for kites to fly. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=991 Mon, 21 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students at Ann MacArthur Primary School are learning how to be bucket fillers by giving each other compliments, being helpful, and generally spreading good feelings to others. The bucket is a metaphor for the place inside each of us where we keep our feelings. Telling someone they are nice, or offering to help them clean up, fills the bucket of the child receiving the compliment or help and fills the bucket of the child doing the kind deed because it makes him or her feel good. The program was brought to AMP by the school’s Site-Based Team and based on the book, “Have You Filled a Bucket Today?” by Carol McCloud, is easy for students in the primary grades to understand. They can use an actual bucket and write down the nice things they do as they watch the bucket fill up. This helps them understand the concept. The program promotes kindness and sends an anti-bullying message, as bullies are called “bucket dippers” – taking away the good feelings from someone’s internal bucket. Ann MacArthur Primary School Assistant Principal Michele Salerno said reinforcing the concept of becoming a bucket filler is important. “One of the many benefits of becoming a bucket-filling school is that we are now able to use a common language with all of the children.” Each kindergarten through second-grade class received a beach bucket that they fill with slips of paper naming the kind deeds they’ve done. In order to enhance the program, this year’s field day themes revolved around the bucket-filler program. Physical Education teacher Maribeth Miller, a member of the Site-Based Team who was instrumental in promoting the program to AMP, created relay races and other events that required buckets to complete each task. Buckets were used for balancing items, buckets had to be filled with items, and one event even required students to spell the word bucket. Ms. Miller said field day always incorporates fun with the physical education skills learned throughout the year, such as throwing, catching, coordination, and teamwork. This year, however, she added a new dynamic. “By creating a bucket-filler theme, the students were reminded about being kind to each other, and they will take that back into the classroom, the playground and their homes,” she explained. Ms. Salerno added, “The more the children hear about the rewards of filling someone’s bucket, the more likely they will be to do good deeds.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=978 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT All Elementary students will have half days from June 21-June 24. Dismissal will be at 11:30 a.m. on Monday June 21; Tuesday, June 22; Wednesday, June 23; and Thursday, June 24. There is no school on Friday, June 25. Locust Valley Intermediate School's Fifth Grade Moving Up Ceremony is MONDAY, JUNE 21 at 7:30 p.m. in the LVI auditorium. Bayville Intermediate School's Fifth Grade Moving Up Ceremony is MONDAY, JUNE 21 at 6:00 p.m. in the BI auditorium. Locust Valley Middle School Moving Up Ceremony is on Tuesday, June 22 at 6:00 p.m. as originally scheduled. Locust Valley High School graduation is on Saturday, June 26 at 4:00 p.m. as originally scheduled. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=982 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School has once again earned national distinction by being ranked in the top half of one percent of high schools in the U.S. by Newsweek! Locust Valley earned this distinction out of 27,000 high schools from across our country. “I am very proud that our district is being recognized nationally for our achievements,” stated Locust Valley Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund. “It is a testament to our rigorous academic program, the hard work of our impressive student body, the dedication of our outstanding faculty, and the exceptional support which continues to be provided by our parents, community and our Board of Education.” Click here to read the Newsweek article. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=958 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT LVHS Senior Marc Mauro placed second in the New York State Track and Field Championships in two events. Marc earned All State Honors as he finished second in both the 100m and 200m finals in Vestal, NY. Congratulations to Marc and to the coaches for a fantastic season! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=977 Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click here to view Perspective. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=950 Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Middle School students were honored at the Middle School Academic Awards Ceremony at which achievement awards were given to outstanding students in each subject. Congratulations to all the recipients on your hard work and success! Please click here for a complete list of award recipients. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=938 Wed, 09 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT One sure way to encourage elementary students to listen is by sending the message with those they consider role models, such as high school students. As part of a program called Athletes Helping Athletes, Locust Valley High School athletes recently visited students at Bayville Intermediate School to talk to them about making smart decisions. “Younger students look up to the high school athletes, so it makes sense to have them setting a good example,” explained Mark J. Dantuono, Director of Physical Education, Health, and Athletics. “The fifth graders will be entering middle school in the fall and it is a perfect time to reinforce the importance of good decision-making.” Students are reminded by the high school mentors that making the wrong decisions can destroy their dreams of being an athlete. Several teenagers spoke to an entire class at once and then also broke into smaller groups, in which fifth graders had the opportunity to ask individual questions. Bayville Elementary School Principal Scott McElhiney said that Athletes Helping Athletes reinforces the lessons being taught throughout the year. “We have many programs that support the message that children need to make the right choices,” he said. “This is one way for young students to see that their role models actually adhere to these messages.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=937 Tue, 08 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Senior track runners Sara Berke and Marc Mauro have qualifyied to compete in the New York State Track Championships which will be held June 10 - 12, upstate at Vestal High School. Congratulations to our featured runners and to our coaches, Joseph Lee and Shawn Miley. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=929 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT 2009-2010 Nassau County Spring Section VIII Athletic Awards Name Grade Sport Award William Brennan 12 Baseball All Conference Kevin Carrigan 12 Baseball All League Bobby Finke 12 Baseball All League Sam Rozzo 12 Baseball All Conference Haydon Taylor 11 Baseball All County Chris Appell 10 Boys Lacrosse All Conference Tyler Burhans 11 Boys Lacrosse Honorable Mention All Country Bradley Conn 10 Boys Lacrosse All Conference Joe DellaFera 12 Boys Lacrosse All County Mike Martucci 12 Boys Lacrosse All Conference Grant Tansil 10 Boys Lacrosse All Conference Wally Gurzynski 12 Boys Track All Division Kevin Jania 10 Boys Track All Division Henry Jansen 12 Boys Track All Division Marc Mauro 12 Boys Track All County Alex Minicozzi 11 Boys Track All Division Will Mitry 11 Boys Track All Division Tom Parisi 11 Boys Track All Division John Udisky 12 Boys Track All Division Annie Hagner 10 Girls Golf All Division Casey Hockberg 12 Girls Golf All Division Amanda West 10 Girls Golf All Division Taylor Bleistein 9 Girls Lacrosse All Conference Courtney Boyd 10 Girls Lacrosse All Conference Aubree Cannone 12 Girls Lacrosse All County Stephanie Lucidi 11 Girls Lacrosse All County Bairre Reilly 9 Girls Lacrosse All County Alexandra Sharp 12 Girls Lacrosse Scholar Athlete Jackie Yaraghi 12 Girls Lacrosse Unsung Hero Denise Beauchamp 9 Girls Track All Division Sara Berke 12 Girls Track All Division Bailey Bondy 9 Girls Track All Division Carly Chianese 11 Girls Track All Division Karissa Chiantella 12 Girls Track All Division Lucy Hayes 10 Girls Track All Division Rose Lucidi 12 Girls Track All Division Grainne O'Neill 9 Girls Track All Division Saeunn Petursdottir 12 Girls Track All Division Meghan Collins 11 Softball All Division Jacqueline D'Elia 8 Softball All Division Nicole Dooley 11 Softball All County Nicole Rozzo 10 Softball All Division Robert Converse 12 Tennis All Conference Marc Mauro 12 Track and Field Nassau County Coaches Association Outstanding Runner Award TEAM ACHIEVEMENTS 1) 100% Scholar Athlete Achievement of Spring season teams 2) Co-Conference Softball Champions 3) Baseball County Finalist - First time in 30 years 4) Boys and Girls Lacrosse advanced to the Nassau County Class C Quarter Final Round 5) Boys and Girls Track qualified over 10 athletes for the Nassau County Invitationals http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=930 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students at Bayville Primary School may think that Field Day was just plain old fun, but what they didn’t realize was that all the skills they learned throughout the year were being put to use. Throwing, catching, coordination, team work, and school spirit were all incorporated in the day’s Circus theme. Each event centered on an age appropriate physical education skill and used circus activities as the foundation. Running with giant cotton candy cones required balance, passing a ball using only their feet required coordination and teamwork. Events such as the elephant walk, tall man/tall woman, and strong man/strong woman also incorporated the circus themes with physical education skills. In May, students learned about elections and held an actual vote. The results of that vote required Principal Scott McElhiney and Assistant Principal Dorothy McManus to dress as clowns for the day, which really added spirit to the event! Thanks to Physical Education teachers Kristen Hordy, Frank Kollias, and Carlyn Gordon for coordinating the day! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=928 Fri, 04 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Registration for Summer Recreation will be held on the following dates: June 4, 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Bayville Primary School and Ann MacArthur Primary School June 11, 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Bayville Primary School and Ann MacArthur Primary School June 19, at 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Locust Valley High School Click here for information and registration form. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=918 Thu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Members of the Locust Valley High School Class of 2010 have been accepted to a wide array of prestigious colleges and universities. Additionally, students are being awarded scholarships from community organizations which recognize outstanding achievement. The community scholarships will be presented to students at an awards ceremony on May 26th. The community groups which provided the scholarships will be recognized and thanked at a Board of Education meeting on June 15th. Many of the colleges and universities, which the Class of 2010 will attend, have also awarded scholarships to Locust Valley Seniors and are expected to equal 1 or 2 million dollars! This information will be updated in a few days to reflect the specific numbers. Please click below to see all the awards offered to Locust Valley Seniors by commnunity organizations at the Recent Academic Awards Night. Academic Awards Night Program http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=871 Thu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Sports Cancellations Tuesday June 1 MS7 Baseball MS8 Baseball MS7 Softball http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=911 Tue, 01 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT Dressed in red, white, and blue with flags and flowers in hand, elementary students in Bayville and Locust Valley held Memorial Day ceremonies to honor the country’s Veterans. At each celebration, members of the school bands performed patriotic songs and ended the ceremonies with emotional renditions of Taps to honor the memory of fallen soldiers. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=909 Fri, 28 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School's Fourth Annual Writers/Directors’ Spring Showcase was a true showcase of Locsut Valley High School talent. Students wrote original scripts and acted in each other's scenes. All original comedic and dramatic scripts were written and performed by: Featuring new scripts by: Emma Charno Laura Doukas Nicole Friedman Sophia Ioannou Samantha Prosser Peter Schultz Nathaniel Szymkowicz Anna Stacy Austen Terry Directed and Produced by Mrs. Bolitho and Mr. Lynch http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=904 Fri, 28 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT A team of Locust Valley High School students received High Honors Awards at the Long Island Science Congress. Jamie Jaget, Hope Craig, and Sami Limperis-Kaufman were recognized for their project, “Using Analytical and Manual Procedures to Measure the Effects of Increased Rainfall on the Health of a Shellfish Producing Estuary.” In its 60th year, the Long Island Science Congress, held at SUNY Farmingdale, had a record number of entries this year and had to turn away potential entrants. However, Locust Valley entered the maximum number of allowable projects (10), and for the first time, won an advanced award in the team category. The high school team worked on their project with Friends of the Bay in Oyster Bay. This is the second year that Locust Valley has entered the fair, and the second time we have had students place in the High Honors range. Each of the three team members received a plaque for their project, and the school was presented with an Outstanding Participation Award. Congratulations to the winners and all of the participants, along with their advisor, Mr. Christopher Hoppner. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=906 Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} Locust Valley Middle School is ranked in the top 100 middle schools in New York State for 2009 by Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth (CTY) Talent Search. Schools are chosen by the CTY Talent Search based on the number of students placing in the 95th percentile on standardized exams. Additionally, Johns Hopkins looks at how schools challenge their top performing students. Being named among the top schools in the state reflects upon the school's academic quality, student abilities, and teacher talent. A list of the top schools can be found at www.cty.jhu.edu/ts/topschools/NYtop.html. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=907 Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the following members of the Locust Valley Track & Field Team who competed in the Nassau County Championships at Mitchel Field on May 25th and 26th: 400m Hurdles Wally Gurzynski 8th Place (School Record Holder) 100m Marc Mauro Class A County Champion (School Record Holder) 800m Henry Jansen 12th Place 200m Marc Mauro Class A County Champion (School Record Holder) 400m Kevin Jania 9th Place Peter Hogya 11th Place 1600m Matt Rieger 12th Place Long Jump Tom Parisi 9th Place 4x800m Matt Rieger, Henry Jansen, Kevin Jania, & John Udisky 8th Place 4x400m Wally Gurzynski, Henry Jansen, Kevin Jania, & John Udisky 4th Place 4x100m Tom Parisi, Alex Minicozzi, Will Mitry, & Marc Mauro 5th Place (School Record Holder) The following athletes will be competing in the New York State Qualifier meet on June 2nd and June 3rd at Westbury HS 4:00 p.m.: 100m Marc Mauro 200m Marc Mauro 4x400m Wally Gurzynski, Henry Jansen, Kevin Jania, & John Udisky 4 x 100 m Tom Parisi, Alex Minicozzi, Will Mitry & Marc Mauro 400m Hurdles Saeunn Petursdottir, Denise Beauchamp 800m Grainne O’Neill, Fiona O’Neill and Grace Murphy 200m Carly Chianese 400m Grainne O’Neill and Lucy Hayes 1500m Karissa Chiantella, Alessandra Sorrento Triple Jump Saeunn Petursdottir, Karissa Chiantella 4x800m Fiona O’Neill, Grace Murphy, Grainne O’Neill and Karissa Chiantella 4x400m Lucy Hayes, Grainne O’Neill, Baily Bondy and Carly Chianese 4 x 100 m Rose Lucidi, Sara Berke, Carly Chianese, Saeunn Petursdottir 100m Sara Berke and Rose Lucidi 3000m Alessandra Sorrento Congratulations to all of the student athletes for a great year and also to our Varsity Boys staff, Coach Joseph Lee and Coach Tim Lomot and our Varsity Girls staff Shawn Miley and Katherine Murawski.. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=905 Wed, 26 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Boys Varsity Baseball team is heading to the County Finals for the first time in more than 30 years after beating Cold Spring Harbor 7-1. Will Brennan pitched a complete game for the win. Brennan allowed one earned run and gave up only 4 hits in improving his record to 5-0. Sam Rozzo and Bobby Finke had back to back singles with RBIs to give the Falcons a 2-1 lead. Nick Sorbara's stole home in the bottom of the third to give the Falcons a 3-1 lead. The Falcons will begin a best of three series vs Oyster Bay on Monday at Adelphi University. Congratulations to the players and the coaches! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=887 Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the following members of the Boys and Girls Varsity Track & Field teams who qualified for the Nassau County Championships at Mitchel Field on Tuesday May 25th and Wednesday May 26th. The Championships will begin at 4:00 p.m. 400 Hurdles Wally Gurzynski 100m Marc Mauro 800m Henry Jansen 200m Marc Mauro 400m Kevin Jania and Peter Hogya 1600m Matt Rieger Long Jump Tom Parisi 4x800m Matt Rieger, Henry Jansen, Kevin Jania, & John Udisky 4x400m Wally Gurzynski, Henry Jansen, Kevin Jania, & John Udisky 4 x 100 m Tom Parisi, Alex Minicozzi, Will Mitry & Marc Mauro 400m hurdles Saeunn Petursdottir 800m Grainne O’Neill, Fiona O’Neill and Grace Murphy 200m Carly Chianese 400m Grainne O’Neill and Lucy Hayes 1500m Karissa Chiantella, Alessandra Sorrento Long Jump Sara Berke Triple Jump Saeunn Petursdottir, Karissa Chiantella 4x800m Fiona O’Neill, Grace Murphy, Grainne O’Neill and Karissa Chiantella 4x400m Denise Beauchamp, Gabby Sodano, Baily Bondy and Carly Chianese 4 x 100 m Rose Lucidi, Sara Berke, Carly Chianese, Stephanie Mysholowsky 100m Sara Berke and Rose Lucidi 3000m Alessandra Sorrento Congratulations and good luck to the coaches and our Falcon runners!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=888 Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} The Locust Valley Central School District refunded bonds which will save the District more than $700,000 over the next eight years. The Board of Education and Administration worked diligently to refund bonds from 2001, reducing the District’s interest payment rate from 4 percent to 2 percent and reducing payments by $87,600 annually. This savings was only possible due to the upgrade in the District’s credit rating by Moody’s to an “Aa1” level. With the improved credit rating coinciding with lower interest rates, the timing was perfect for the refunding of these bonds. Bonds maturing at future dates will be examined for refunding as well, for possible additional savings in future years. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=881 Tue, 18 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT The 2010-2011 Budget passed . Thank you to the community! Budget: Yes - 1499 No - 1268 Proposition 2 Driver Education Yes 1511 No 1157 Proposition 3 Capital Reserve Yes 1617 No 1015 Locust Valley Library Budget Yes 633 No 406 Jack Dolce and Carl A. Friedrich were elected to the Board of Education. Mr. Dolce had 1739 votes. Mr. Friedrich had 1604 votes. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=883 Tue, 18 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Recent information in local media contrasts the quality of education provided by the Locust Valley School District with local private schools. It also, selectively examined associated property taxes. While I have the highest respect for these private institutions and appreciate that some families prefer the setting, I am unaware of any information demonstrating or expressing academic superiority. However, what I am aware of is the high caliber education the school district offers and furnishes to its students. The high school is rated in the top 1% of high schools in the United States by Newsweek magazine. It has the highest Regents Graduation rate (99%) in Nassau County. This year two students were National merit semi-finalists and one student a finalist, an extraordinary accomplishment. Ninety-eight percent of its graduates go on to college, very often the best colleges and universities. This year’s graduates, for example, were accepted to Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Duke, Notre Dame, Boston College, Columbia, University of Michigan, Dartmouth, University of North Carolina, and Cornell among many others Disturbingly, the financial information reported is arbitrary, and mischievous. For example, one publication discloses high administration cost in 2007 but fails to point out that similar high performing school districts in the area, such as Oyster Bay, North Shore, and Jericho had higher administrative expenses. Moreover, it failed to report that Locust Valley publically disclosed and outlined a 30 % cut in administrative positions since 2007. Not realizing that transportation and books for private schools are part of the Locust Valley School budget, paid for by Locust Valley tax -payers, the publication incorrectly reported the cost to educate a Locust Valley student. It also failed to report that Locust Valley’s 0.92% effective tax rate is among the lowest in the state and the school aid it receives ranks among the lowest, 658 of 671 school districts. Furthermore, it failed to mention that the proposed 2010/11 budget has a 0% salary increase for teachers and that all union contracts are being renegotiated. Property expenses are high and must be controlled, but informed community members know a bankrupted state has dramatically reduced state aid, (over $1million dollars to Locust Valley,) while substantially increasing unfunded mandates. Recently it ordered schools to pay millions of dollars to bailout the MTA. Additionally, the state provides generous employee pension and benefit plans requiring school districts to fund them. The proposed 2010-11 school budget is a sound one, which keeps the tax increase at approximately $60 to $100 for the entire year for a house valued at $500,000 in Bayville or Locust Valley. In fact, if state aid had not been cut and unfunded mandates increased, the tax levy would have decreased by -.39%. That’s value we can all support. Respectfully, Jack Dolce President of LVBOE http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=856 Mon, 17 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School Seniors have been accepted to the most prestigious colleges and universities in the country. Congratulations to the Class of 2010 for acceptance into the following schools: Adelphi University The University of Alabama Alfred State College American University Arizona State University Babson College Barnard College Baruch College of the CUNY Bentley University Binghamton University Boston College Boston University Brandeis University Brooklyn College of the CUNY Bucknell University Buffalo State College of SUNY Carnegie Mellon University City College of New York University of Colorado at Boulder Columbia College Columbia University Connecticut College University of Connecticut Cornell University University of Delaware Dowling College Drexel University Duke University East Carolina University Edinboro University of Pennsylvania Elon University Emerson College Emmanuel College Emory University Fairfield University Fairleigh Dickinson University Fashion Institute of Technology Flagler College Florida Atlantic University Florida International University Florida State University University of Florida Fordham University Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering The George Washington University Georgetown University Georgia Institute of Technology University of Georgia Hamilton College University of Hartford Harvard University Hofstra University College of the Holy Cross Hunter College of the CUNY Iona College Ithaca College James Madison University John Jay College of Criminal Justice of the CUNY Johns Hopkins University Keene State College Kentucky Wesleyan College Lehigh University Long Island University, C.W. Post Campus Loyola University Maryland Lynchburg College Lynn University Macaulay Honors College at CUNY Manhattan College Marist College University of Maryland, Baltimore County Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences University of Massachusetts, Amherst University of Massachusetts, Boston Miami University, Oxford University of Miami University of Michigan Misericordia University Mount Holyoke College Mount Saint Mary College Muhlenberg College Nassau Community College University of New Hampshire New York Institute of Technology - Old Westbury New York University The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of North Carolina at Greensboro University of North Carolina at Wilmington University of North Florida Northeastern University Northwestern University University of Notre Dame Ohio Northern University The Ohio State University Pace University, New York City Pace University, Pleasantville-Briarcliff Parsons School of Design, New School University Pennsylvania State University, Altoona Pennsylvania State University, University Park University of Pennsylvania University of Pittsburgh Plattsburgh State University Princeton University Purchase College Queens College of the CUNY Quinnipiac University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute University of Rhode Island University of Richmond Roger Williams University Sacred Heart University Saint Leo University The College of Saint Rose Salisbury University Salve Regina University Savannah College of Art and Design University of the Sciences in Philadelphia Seton Hall University Siena College Skidmore College University of South Carolina St. John's University - Queens Campus State University of New York at Albany State University of New York at New Paltz College of Staten Island Stonehill College Stony Brook University SUNY College at Cobleskill SUNY College at Cortland SUNY College at Fredonia SUNY College at Geneseo Morrisville State College SUNY College at Oneonta SUNY College at Potsdam SUNY at Farmingdale SUNY Maritime College SUNY Oswego Syracuse University The University of Tampa Temple University The University of Texas, Austin Tompkins Cortland Community College Towson University Tulane University Union College Unity College University at Buffalo The State University of New York University of Colorado, Denver Vassar College University of Vermont Villanova University Wake Forest University Washington University in St. Louis Webb Institute Wells College Wesleyan University Western New England College Wheaton College Widener University Wilkes University University of Wisconsin, Madison Yale University York College of the CUNY http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=857 Mon, 17 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Central School District would like to thank the Falcon Pride Athletic Booster Club for their generous donations of a golf cart and scoreboard for the athletic program. The golf cart is a wonderful gift for the entire community, as it will allow spectators with walking difficulties to receive a ride down to the athletic fields. The beautiful scoreboard is also a tremendous addition to the athletic program. Beautifully painted with the black and green Falcon logo, the golf cart has three rows of comfortable seats. For spectators such as grandparents or anyone who has difficulty walking from the parking lot to the athletic fields, the golf cart will enable them to get to the stands and cheer the Falcons on! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=861 Mon, 17 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Sixth graders at Locust Valley Middle School are studying poetry by reading it, hearing it, and of course, writing it themselves. After listening to a guest poet discuss her poems and offer tips on writing poetry, students took a trip to the beach for poetic inspiration. “Poetry can be a uniquely personal form of expression, the genesis of which can be both from personal experience and observation,” said Locust Valley Middle School Principal Tom Hogan. Sitting on towels, with paper and pencil in hand, students looked out at the water, the horizon and the beautiful Bayville beach – all offering opportunities to use descriptive words. “It’s important that our students recognize that their everyday experiences offer opportunity to reflect, create and grow; both as writers and artists. The sixth-grade team of teachers continues exploring ways to inspire and instill confidence in our young writers. This experiment was successful on every level; the children motivated each other and had a great time as well...instruction at its finest.” Mr. Hogan explained. Additionally, if young writers can see poetry as being fun, or as something you can do anywhere, they may be more likely to continue writing in the future. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=862 Mon, 17 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Using skills learned in the second-grade classroom, art, library, and technology, students at Bayville Primary School created their own clay animation movies about dinosaurs. Clay animation, also known as stop-motion animation, requires filmmakers to move the clay subjects of their film approximately 12 times for each second of the film in order to create the visual effect of movement. Second graders in Mrs. Rovere’s class researched dinosaurs and applied what they learned to writing scripts, molding accurate dinosaurs out of clay, and creating the props and scenery. “This project provided an opportunity for collaboration among various disciplines,” stated Mrs. Rovere. She explained that the teachers of each subject area worked together on the project to incorporate various skills, with the end result culminating in a claymation video. Creating the actual video also taught students a variety of skills including critical thinking, literacy, interpersonal communication, public speaking, artistic expression, story telling, and group decision-making. Art teacher Erin Keys, library media specialist Stefanie Lipsey, and technology specialist Kit Knight each contributed to the collaborative project. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=863 Mon, 17 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT From orchestra and band to chorus and jazz band, Locust Valley musicians have been entertaining the community with beautiful music! The Middle School presented the 7th and 8th grade concert, and the high school presented several bands, orchestras and singing groups during the annual Spring Concerts. It's not too late to enjoy the talent of tour students. Please join us for the following concerts: Sixth Grade: May 17th , 7:00 p.m., High School auditorium Locust Valley Intermediate School: May 20th, 7:00 p.m., High School auditorium Bayville Intermediate School : May 25th, 7:00 p.m., High School auditorium http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=854 Fri, 14 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Click here to read about the incredible accomplishments in Locust Valley!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=855 Fri, 14 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Jack Dolce Jack Dolce is committed to keeping property taxes down while preserving the excellent education which Locust Valley students receive. Mr. Dolce, who received his MBA from the University of Dayton, has vast financial experience as an investor, business executive, and entrepreneur, will rely on his background in finance to help the district create stable budgets that preserve educational excellence and keep costs down. Additionally, Mr. Dolce taught the Capstone Business Course at Hofstra University for five years and taught Economics at University of Dayton for one year. He plans to lobby State Senators and Assemblymen to eliminate unnecessary mandates imposed on school districts. Additionally, he will work closely with the Administration to negotiate responsible contracts with teachers, administrators, and staff. “Contracts need to reflect today’s poor economic climate,” Mr. Dolce said. Carl Friedrich Carl Friedrich is dedicated to meeting the district’s financial obligations while maintaining its exceptional academic standing. With four children who will go through the Locust Valley School District, Mr. Friedrich has a deeply vested interest in keeping taxes low and educational standards high. Mr. Friedrich, a graduate of the Wharton School of Business, is a financial planner and investment manager who plans to use his professional experience to manage the district’s finances. He plans to take active roles in deciding key budgetary priorities. “I will also keep a keen eye on maintaining the educational excellence Locust Valley provides,” Mr. Friedrich said. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=852 Thu, 13 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Ballot – At a Glance • Candidates Running for two seats on the Board of Education Jack Dolce Carl A. Friedrich • Proposition No. 1: School District Budget 2010-11 - $71,752,390 Residents will vote on the Board of Education’s adopted school budget for the school year 2010-2011 in the amount of $71,752,390. • Proposition No. 2: Driver Education 2010-11 - $83,200 Residents will vote on the authorization to conduct a Driver Education Program for the school year 2010-2011, in the amount of $83,200. • Proposition No. 3: Capital Reserve Fund – $830,000 Residents will vote on the authorization to expend $830,000 from the Capital Reserve Fund, with NO INCREASE TO TAXPAYERS, for capital improvements related to health and safety. • Proposition No. 4: Locust Valley Library Operating Expenses 2010-11 - $1,414,237 Residents of the Locust Valley Library service area only will vote on the Locust Valley Library appropriation submitted for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2010 in the amount of $1,414,237. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=853 Thu, 13 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Cancelled Today, Wednesday, May 12th: Middle School Girls Lacrosse - Moved to May 17th http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=849 Wed, 12 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Ballot At A Glance 2010-2011 Budget Summary 2010-2011 Adopted Budget 2010-2011 Budget Presentation Property Tax Report Card Soundwaves, Budget Edition http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=848 Tue, 11 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Lacrosse Day 2010 was a great success, with sunshine, solid playing from the youth, middle school, and high school teams, and the support of the Athletic Council and Falcon Pride! Our Varsity Boys and Girls teams posted strong wins as MSG Varsity was able to capture some memorable moments. Community members enjoyed wonderful food supplied by the Athletic Council and everyone enjoyed the “Fastest Shot Competition” arranged through Falcon Pride. This day would not have been possible without the support of the following organizations: Falcon Pride, Oak Neck Athletic League, Athletic Council, Olympic Den, our Building and Grounds and custodial Departments and of course, all of our athletes and coaches. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=833 Mon, 10 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Spectrum has received the “First Place with Special Merit” ranking from the American Scholastic Press Association (ASPA) for the second year in a row, based the high school newspaper's critique for the 2009-2010 school year. This is the highest ranking possible! Congratulations to the entire staff of The Spectrum and to their advisor Coleen Comerford on this outstanding achievement! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=834 Mon, 10 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the Varsity Spring Athletic teams which have earned Scholar-Athlete status! In order to achieve this honor, the team must carry at least a 90 GPA. This is a difficult accomplishment in a season that carries hours of practices and games. The following teams have achived this honor: Baseball Girls Golf Boys Lacrosse Girls Lacrosse Softball Boys Track Girls Track Boys Tennis Congratulations!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=835 Mon, 10 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Two Locust Valley Intermediate School students will be featured on MSG Varsity Network (channel 14) tonight, Friday May 8th at 6:00 p.m. The fourth graders will be reading their original poems that earned them first place in the CAPS Bully Prevention Poetry Contest. The segment will be aired during the MSG Varsity show, "Training for Life." MSG Varsity (channel 14) is also expected to air footage, and possibly student interviews, from Thursday's LVHS Varsity Basball game. Tune in to MSG Varsity Sports Desk at 7:00 p.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=827 Fri, 07 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Central School District's exceptional business practices were recognized as being in the top 5% of all school districts in the state. Click here to read the article from On Board, a New York State School Boards publication. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=828 Fri, 07 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Lacrosse Day is at Locust Valley High School on Saturday, May 8th. Click for full schedule. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=829 Fri, 07 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Monday, May 3rd Girls Varsity Softball moved to May 5th Girls JV Softball moved to May 4th at LVHS Boys JV Baseball moved to May 5th Boys Varsity Baseball moved to May 5th MS 7th and 8th grade softball moved to May 20th. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=814 Mon, 03 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT We are very proud to announce that our LVHS Varsity Baseball team is now ranked fourth in Class B in New York State. This is the highest ranking in Class B among all Long Island schools. The team will be advancing to the semifinals. The success of the team can be attributed to many factors including the incredible hard work and commitment of the players and our dedicated coaching staff. Many of our athletes began playing sports through community organizations such as the Bayville Community Little League. All of the community youth athletic organizations contribute to the growth of our athletes in all sports, such as Oak Neck Athletics, St. Gertrude’s CYO Basketball, Locust Valley-Bayville Soccer League and Grenville Baker Boys and Girls Club which provided them the foundation they needed as young athletes to succeed on the varsity level. Mark J. Dantuono, Director of Physical Health, Physical Education & Athletics said the support of the community is vital to the success of the Locust Valley athletic program. “Our community’s athletic programs prepare our students for competitive sports and continue to support these athletes as they begin to play interscholastic athletics,” he explained. “We are so grateful to these organizations and to our dedicated coaches for all they do.” http://www.newsday.com/sports/high-school/baseball/high-school-baseball-1.1568204 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=815 Mon, 03 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School students were introduced to almost 60 career options during the Junior Career Fair, a collaboration of high school W.I.S.E. Senior Internship Program, and the Locust Valley Rotary Club. Business teacher Doreen Kobus, who organized the event with Mary Hendrickson said holding the career fair starts students thinking about the diverse options they have for their futures. “By meeting people in careers they never considered and hearing what they actually do on a day-to-day basis, these young men and women can begin to explore their options,” Ms. Kobus said. Joseph Ryan, President of the Locust Valley Rotary Club worked with Ms. Kobus and Dr. Hendrickson in coordinating the fair which brought in professionals representing careers including architecture, physical therapy, finance, art, dance, real estate, medicine, military, law, and so many more. Many of the professionals are residents of the school district or work in the community. John A. Busch, President of John Busch & Associates, Inc. and a former Operations and Intelligence Officer in the U.S. Army moderated a panel of speakers who addressed the topic of Unique Career Paths. Dr. William J. Catacosinos, a managing partner of Laurel Hill Capital Partners and former CEO of Long Island Lighting Company, Dr. Kieran McGuire, Locust Valley High School Principal, and Mr. Graham Long, Urban Planner, Political Candidate for Congress and former Locust Valley WISE Internship Program graduate held an interactive discussion with students about their paths to success. This is a good example of how education extends beyond the classroom; how educators and community members can join together for the betterment of our students. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=811 Wed, 28 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT Tuesday, April 27th - Please check athletics calendar for rescheduled games. Boys Varsity Lacrosse CANCELLED JV Boys Lacrosse CANCELLED JV Baseball CANCELLED Girls JV Lacrosse CANCELLED Girls Varsity Lacrosse CANCELLED Varsity Baseball CANCELLED Varsity Softball CANCELLED http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=807 Tue, 27 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT Through creative dance, song, and visual effects, the third graders at Locust Valley Intermediate School performed “It’s a Small World”, an original multicultural show for their families. Preparation for the show took place entirely during the student’s art and music classes. Art teacher Mrs. Dana Ettinger and music teacher Mrs. Jane Benstock coordinated the music and visuals with the Grade 3 curriculum. Students learned about various cultures and traditions associated with the countries they studied. Each of the third grade classes represented a country, wearing native costumes, singing songs in that country’s language, and performing traditional dances. Each class began with their country’s National Anthem. Mrs. McElawain’s class presented the country of Mexico, and lit up the stage in red and green. Mrs. Arthur and Ms. McDermott’s class learned about Zimbabwe on the continent of Africa, participating in an African Drum Circle. Wearing African face paint they dramatized an African folk tale. Dressed in beautiful kimonos, the songs and dances of Japan were performed by Mrs. Kreisberg’s class. Focusing on the Italian Carnival of Venice, Mrs. Herlich’s class sang “That’s Amore” and even performed a traditional Italian maypole dance. The program concluded with “The Song of Peace”, which was sung by the entire grade level and enhanced with American Sign Language. It was a wonderful experience for all that combined fun with learning! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=809 Tue, 27 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Varsity Baseball team has been ranked in in the Top 10 in Nassau County and New York State, with no losses since March 31. To read more about the county ranking, Click here . To read about the New York State ranking, click here. The LVHS Varsity Lacrosse team is ranked in the Top 10 in Nassau County and 24th in the state. Click here to read about the Lacrosse team. Way to go Falcons! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=803 Wed, 21 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School recently hosted a visit from Serbian Royalty. Newsday's coverage of the event can been read here: Newsday link. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=801 Tue, 20 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Second Annual Locust Valley High School College Fair will be held in the high school cafeteria on Tuesday, April 20th, from 4:00 p.m to 6:00 p.m. Students and their parents are encouraged to attend this informative event to receive information and ask questions of the representatives in attendance. Click here for a list of Colleges and Universities scheduled to attend http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=765 Mon, 19 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT Please click here for voter registration information and absentee ballot forms. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=785 Mon, 19 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT The original art work of Locust Valley High School students will be on display in 48 local businesses from April 19-25 in conjunction with Locust Valley Restaurant Week, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce. The student Art Walk will feature the exhibition of paintings, drawings, sculptures, and other artistic creations for the community to enjoy. Organized by event chairperson Kaye Wenninger and Locust Valley Art and Technology Chairperson Tom Hogan, the exhibition shows mutual support between the local businesses and the school district. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=779 Wed, 14 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School Junior, Noelle Antignano won first place in Adelphi University's Press Day Quill Awards competition and second place in the New York Press Association’s 2009 Better Newspaper Contest. Her photo, which was printed in The Spectrum, was described by contest judges as being a good photo that depicted the emotions of the moment. Noelle, Photography Editor of The Spectrum, took her winning photo at the Varsity Football team’s championship game. Congratulations, Noelle! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=768 Mon, 12 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT Please join us on April 13, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. in the high school auditorium for an important and informational meeting on substance abuse among teenagers on Long Island. Click here for details. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=769 Mon, 12 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT JV Softball moved to Saturday, April 10, 10 a.m. at LVHS Varsity Softball moved to April 10, 11 a.m., at Valley Stream North JV Baseball at Malverne MS at 4:45 p.m. today Varsity Baseball at Malverne HS at 4:45 p.m. today http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=766 Fri, 09 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} The Locust Valley High School literary magazine, Perspective held the first annual Coffee House, a night of acoustic music and poetry readings. Students performed on guitar, vocals, and read original writings. Perspective Advisor Amy Rosenbaum, who helped coordinate the event, said the event was a great success and the students and staff are already looking forward to the second annual Coffee House! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=762 Wed, 07 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley High School literary magazine, Perspective,held the first annual Coffee House, a night of acoustic music and poetry readings in the mini-theater. Students performed on guitar, vocals, and read original writings. Perspective Advisor Amy Rosenbaum, who helped coordinate the event, said the event was a great success and the students and staff are already looking forward to the second annual Coffee House! Ms. Rosenbaum said the event was also meant to promote awareness of Perspective Literary Magazine. "Spotlight Night provided an opportunity for our school's budding musicians, song writers, and poets to perform in front of an audience of peers, teachers, and parents." http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=763 Wed, 07 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT Hihg School Senior Will Brennan was featured in Newsday for his outstanding athleticism on the Boys Varsity Baseball team. Click here to read the story. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=764 Wed, 07 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT JV Boys lacrosse game on Wednesday 3/31/10 vs. Mepham will now be played at 8:45 a.m. and at Centre Island – JV bus at 8 am http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=743 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Monday, March 29th, 2010 Today's Varsity and JV Baseball games are postponed due to inclement weather. Both games will be played against Oyster Bay on Thursday, April 1 at 10 a.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=742 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Our Varsity Boys Lacrosse Team will be playing Kellenberg HS at Centre Island today at 4:15. Our JV Boys Lacrosse Team will be playing Kellenberg HS at Locust Valley today at 4:15. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=738 Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Having fun while learning, young scientists at Locust Valley Elementary School conducted research and experiments, and brought their results to the school’s annual science fair, hosted by the Locust Valley Parents’ Council. Do potatoes conduct electricity? How about lemons? Does one brand of batteries last longer than another? Does temperature affect how popcorn pops? These were the scientific questions posed by the third through fifth graders, and the answers were fascinating. Two fifth-graders proved that keeping popcorn kernels in the freezer actually reduces the number of unpopped kernels. A third grader discovered that one brand of batteries outlasted the competition by many hours, and a fourth grader demonstrated how a wing actually enables an airplane to fly. “These students did a remarkable job taking the skills they have learned in math and science and applying them to proving a hypothesis,” explained Ken Packert, Locust Valley’s K-12 Science Coordinator. “Conducting these experiments and presenting them to the community also gives the students confidence that they can discover new and exciting things with the foundation of skills they already have.” Each student or group of students had a display explaining their experiment, the items used to conduct the research, and clearly written explanations of their hypothesis and conclusion. The Parent Council awarded each participant a certificate and ribbon for their effort. Everyone went home a winner! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=739 Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School Basketball Coach Tim Lomot was named Conference ABC-V Coach of the Year by the Nassau County High School Basketball Association. Coach Lomot was recognized for his team’s outstanding performance during the 2010 season. The Locust Valley Boys Varsity Basketball team had a league record of 8-2 and they were co-conference champions. “We are proud of Tim Lomot, not only for the successful team that he created this year, but more importantly for his ability to gel a group of young athletes to play as one,” stated Mark Dantuono, Locust Valley Central School District Director of Physical Education, Health, and Athletics. “They played as a team and cared about each other on and off the field. That stems from Coach Lomot’s leadership skills.” Congratulations to Coach Lomot and the entire Boys Varsity Basketball team. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=740 Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students at Ann MacArthur Primary School got a special treat when Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund came to read them a story as the kick-off event for PARP (Parents as Reading Partners) week. The Parents as Reading Partners week is an annual event sponsored by the Locust Valley Elementary Parents Council and coordinated by parents Hayley Byron and Kim Rowe. This year’s theme was “Cuddle Up With a Good Book.” Dressed as the book’s main character, the peddler, Dr. Hunderfund read the classic tale “Caps for Sale.” Locust Valley Elementary School Principal Dr. Sophia Gary and Assistant Principal Michele Salerno each read a story as well. They, along with the students, were dressed in their pajamas for the day – teddy bears in hand! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=741 Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Middle School-High School mini-theater and the surrounding hallways were transformed into a gallery that rivaled any professional artist’s show. This celebration of creativity featured original works of art, technology and TV media by Locust Valley students in grades six through 12. From painting, sculptures, technical drawings, commercials, movies, paintings, and even one student’s very own prom dress, the displays were impressive. Over 500 family, friends, and community members enjoyed the art show and refreshments home-made by students in the culinary club. Mr. Tom Hogan, Art and Technology Department Chairperson, organized the event with the help of the art, technology, TV media and culinary art teachers. “Our student community consistently displays talents that provoke thoughtful discussion and outright amazement. The ability to marry all our creative outlets in one show, and the fact that it has been received with such acclaim, underscores the value our school and community places on the whole child and celebrates the many diverse talents that make our children and this institution so unique.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=736 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Please join us for the LVHS Senior Fashion Show sponsored by the HS Parent Council. High School auditorium, Wednesday, March 24 at 7:15 p.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=735 Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Hollywood filmmakers have the Sundance Film Festival, the Tribeca Film Festival, and of course the ultimate event – the Academy Awards. Across Long Island, high school students work just as hard to prepare for the Locust Valley High School Film Festival, an event that brings aspiring filmmakers together to honor the best of the best in seven categories. After months of writing, editing, acting, and producing, students from 13 Long Island High Schools came together to have their films judged by acclaimed film critic Sandy Kenyon of ABC News. Kenyon scored each entry in the categories of movie trailer, animation, public service announcement, commercial, documentary, music video, and short film. A winner and a runner-up in each category were awarded trophies, as well as scholarships from the NY Institute of Technology; $1,000 for winners and $750 for second place. The festival, organized by Mr. Robert Zahn, Ms. Gypsy Notov-Lew, Dr. Judith Marino, and the LVHS Parent Council, provides an opportunity for students to view and learn from the work of their peers in other high schools. It is also an occasion for Locust Valley to showcase the top-quality films that come from the high school’s TV Production class and Film Club, both taught by Mr. Zahn. Submissions from each of the participating high schools were submitted for pre-judging by volunteer critics from C.W. Post and the New York Institute of Technology. The finalists chosen during this step were then shown at the film festival and judged by Mr. Kenyon, who was not told which schools the films were from until after his selections were made. Every student who participated deserves recognition for their hard work and exceptional end result. Locust Valley students took home seven awards in five separate categories and received rave reviews from Mr. Kenyon. The winners chosen from Locust Valley are as follows: First Place: Movie Trailer: Freddy Derenthal, Nick Sorbora, Matt Ventrella, and Anthony Viggiani Animation: Joe Casalino, Jon Kaplan, Anthony Nastasi, Steve Sammut Commercial: Eamonn Boyd, Luke Palermo, Joseph Sorbara Second Place: Movie Trailer: Colin Kennedy, Nick Parra Public Service Announcement: Matt Rieger, Alex Spear Commercial: Victor Cafaro, James D’Arpa, Brendan Maraboli Documentary: Christian Manzi, Matthew Rieger Participating schools included Baldwin High School, Brentwood High School, Great Neck North High School, Locust Valley High School, Massapequa High School, Oceanside High School, Roslyn High School, Seaford High School, Southside High School, St. John the Baptist High School, Uniondale High School, Valley Stream High School, and Wheatley High School. Besides Locust Valley’s wins, Massapequa, Seaford, Baldwin and Southside each had a first-place film. Oceanside, Uniondale, and St. John the Baptist each had a second-place film. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=733 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Please join us for a Celebration of Art in the Middle School Mini-Theater on Tuesday, March 23 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Student artwork from grades six through twelve will be displayed. Light refreshments will be served. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=731 Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley High School literary magazine, Perspective held the first annual Coffee House, a night of acoustic music and poetry readings. Students performed on guitar, vocals, and read original writings. Perspective Advisor Amy Rosenbaum, who helped coordinate the event, said the event was a great success and the students and staff are already looking forward to the second annual Coffee House! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=727 Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Central School District is among one of only six Nassau County School Districts that was found by the state comptroller's office to be "particulary well run, with well-developed financial policies, effective internal controls, and well-managed operations." Of the 733 school districts audited in New York State, only 37 received such high accolades from the State Comptrollers Office. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=641 Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Please click here for more information regarding the Spring Sports Parent Orientation http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=709 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley High School Jesters presented three outstanding performances of the heart-stirring Rodgers and Hammerstein musical “The King and I.” East versus West makes for a dramatic, richly textured and ultimately uplifting tale of enormous fascination. It is 1862 in Siam when an English widow, Anna Leonowens, and her young son arrive at the Royal Palace in Bangkok, having been summoned by the King to serve as tutor to his many children and wives. The King is largely considered to be a barbarian by those in the West, and he seeks Anna's assistance in changing his image, if not his ways. With both keeping a firm grip on their respective traditions and values, Anna and the King grow to understand and, eventually, respect one another, in a truly unique love story. The Jesters’ production featured Locust Valley High School’s Veronica Palumbo as Mrs. Anna and Steven Liberto as The King. Also featured are Francesca Bonadonna, Jaclyn Collins, John LaMere, Eric Padilla, Anna Stacy and Matthew Walsh. The show was directed by Abbe Gail Gross. Congratulations to the cast and crew on an outstanding performance!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=720 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students from Bayville Intermediate School and Locust Valley Intermediate School stood center ice at Nassau Coliseum as they performed The Star Spangled Banner at a NY Islanders game. Members of the chorus from the two schools sang together for an audience that gave them a tremendous amount of applause on a spectacular rendition of our national anthem. This was a wonderful opportunity for the students to sing in front of a live audience and they enjoyed it greatly. Congratulations to all of our young singers on making Locust Valley proud! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=724 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students at Bayville Primary School have been participating in videoconferences with classes of the same grade level from all over the country. These free events are occasions for children to learn about other areas of our world, as well as present information about Bayville to those students. “It is an opportunity for our youngsters to hear first hand about other types of communities, as well as to gain presentation skills as they teach about their own community,” explained Bayville Primary librarian Stefanie Lipsey. Mrs. Lipsey organized the videoconferences through TWICE (Two Way Interactive Connections in Education), a National Education Association program. Using technology that the Locust Valley School District already owns, participants are able to see students in classrooms from anywhere in the world, and those children can see the Bayville students as well. While preparing material to share in their classrooms and in the library, the Bayville Primary School population benefits from the research. One topic covered was “communities” in which descriptions of rural, suburban, and city were recited by various individuals. The students learned the material for their own presentation and then learned about the topics that the other school presented to them. “It’s a fun way for the kids to learn, both from others and from themselves,” Mrs. Lipsey said. Sometimes the lessons are taught by teachers, offering the experience of having a guest speaker from anywhere in the world. Bayville Primary School Assistant Principal Dorothy McManus applauded Mrs. Lipsey for taking the initiative to set up the videoconferences. “Finding creative ways to engage students in new topics is a wonderful thing,” she stated. “To do so using programs that are free is a big plus and all of the teachers have done work in their classrooms to enhance the videoconferences.” Some of the teachers are planning to correspond with classrooms that they visited as pen pals. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=725 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT 2009-2010 Nassau County WINTER Section VIII Athletic Awards Name Grade Sport Award as of 3/12/10 Carlos Marra 11 Boys Bowling All Conference TJ Lordi 11 Boys Bowling All Conference Kacey Maher 10 Girls Bowling All Conference Karissa Chiantella 12 Winter Track All Conference Sam Ward 7 Wrestling All Conference Jack DiTuro 11 Wrestling All Conference Robert Alfano 12 Wrestling All Conference John Guerriero 12 Wrestling All Conference Christian Briody 7 Wrestling All Conference Dan Casalino 9 Wrestling All Conference Kellen Dougherty 12 Wrestling All Conference Alex Hochberg 11 Wrestling All Conference Joseph Casalino 12 Wrestling All Conference Joseph Ronzetti 12 Wrestling All Conference Sam Casella 11 Wrestling All Conference Robert Alfano 12 Wrestling All County 4th 189 Thomas Sheehan 12 Boys Basketball All County/Player of the Year Cloninger Chad 12 Boys Basketball All Conference Alex Rawa 10 Boys Basketball All Conference Alexis Monserrate 12 Girls Basketball All County-Excpetional Senior Game Isabel Pagliaccio 12 Girls Basketball All Class-Exceptional Senior Game Courtney Morgan 12 Girls Basketball All Conference TEAM ACHIEVEMENTS Winter 2009-2010 Scholar Athlete Teams: ALL TEAMS ACHIEVED OVER 90 GPA: Wrestling 90.6, Boys Basketball 90.4, Girls Basketball 93.5, Boys Bowling 92.8, Girls Bowling 94.1, Boys Track 91.3, Girls Track 93.2, Cheerleading 92.9, Kickline 90.85 Boys Basketball - Conference V Co-League Champions Boys Basketball - Tim Lomot Conference Coach of the Year Girls Basketball - Nassau County Class B Champions Wrestling - Second Place Division I Conference IV A http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=726 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Don't miss out on the premiere of original movies, written and directed by Locust Valley High School students presented to the community before the Locust Valley Film Festival. ALL COMMUNITY MEMBERS ARE INVITED!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=695 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT A team from Locust Valley High School won first place in the Odyssey of the Mind Regional Tournament and now qualifies to compete in the state tournament at Binghamton University on March 27th. Odyssey of the Mind is a LVHS club which gives students the opportunity to solve problems in unique and creative ways. This year the students chose a long term problem entitled "Food Court". Using this theme, the team had to create and present a humorous performance where a food item is accused of being unhealthy and must defend itself among its food peers. All characters are food items and include "the accused," "the accuser," a jury that is not portrayed by team members, and additional team-created characters. The jury reveals its decision to the audience when the performance is over. The LVHS team was one of 27 schools in the region participating in the competition. Locust Valley competed against five of those schools to earn the first-place title. Odyssey of the Mind advisor Alan Stella said the group’s performance was exceptional, bringing praise from audience members. “This Odyssey team is exceptionally talented, hard working and very independent. Despite all of their other obligations, they have managed to produce one of the best performances I have ever seen.” Mr. Stella said. The projects allow students to think creatively as they aim to solve problems that do not have simple resolutions. Thinking out of the box is a priority for success. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=723 Sun, 14 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley High School Interact Club is sponsoring a blood drive Thursday March 11 in the high school mini-theater from 7:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. The blood drive is open to community members who will get priority when they arrive. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=697 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley High School Jesters will present the heart-stirring Rodgers and Hammerstein musical “The King and I” on Friday, March 12 and Saturday, March 13 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 14 at 3:00 p.m. East versus West makes for a dramatic, richly textured and ultimately uplifting tale of enormous fascination. It is 1862 in Siam when an English widow, Anna Leonowens, and her young son arrive at the Royal Palace in Bangkok, having been summoned by the King to serve as tutor to his many children and wives. The King is largely considered to be a barbarian by those in the West, and he seeks Anna's assistance in changing his image, if not his ways. With both keeping a firm grip on their respective traditions and values, Anna and the King grow to understand and, eventually, respect one another, in a truly unique love story. The Jesters’ production features Locust Valley High School’s Veronica Palumbo as Mrs. Anna and Steven Liberto as The King. Also featured are Francesca Bonadonna, Jaclyn Collins, John LaMere, Eric Padilla, Anna Stacy and Matthew Walsh. The show is directed by Abbe Gail Gross. Tickets for the show are $5.00 in advance and $8.00 at the door. For more information call 277-5144. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=670 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Leader published a story that summarizes the first LVCSD Public Budget Forum. Please click here to read the article in its entirety. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=696 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT One of the best ways to learn about a topic is to be immersed in it. Locust Valley Middle School students were certainly absorbed in their studies during the Colonial Times Job Fair. Every seventh grade student chose particular trades from the era, dressed the part, and set up a booth describing the profession, including a display of items used to perform that job. Chandlers, coopers, perukers, and sortors, better know in modern times as candle makers, barrel builders, wigmakers, and tailors, were represented in the middle school mini-theater and middle school library, along with many other colonial jobs. This event celebrates the conclusion of the colonial times segment of the social studies curriculum. “The job fair helps the students showcase, in a creative manner, the information they have learned during this unit of study,” said Social Studies Department Leader David Ethe. “The fair enhances the curriculum by intensely examining the political, social, economic, and geographic life in America that comprises the seventh grade ‘Life in Colonial Communities’ unit of study.” Students also utilized a variety of social studies skills such as research, public speaking, historical perspectives, and writing. Teamwork is another important aspect of the project, as the seventh graders work in groups to prepare and present each trade. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=694 Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Lady Falcons have earned the right to play for the Long Island Championship against Center Moriches High School on Tuesday, March 9 at 5:00 p.m. on the campus of St. Joseph's College in Patchogue. They will compete against Center Moriches High School. Directions to St. Joseph's College in Patchogue: FROM LONG ISLAND EXPRESSWAY AND MAJOR NORTH/SOUTH ROADWAYS: Veterans Highway, Patchogue–Holbrook Road, and Nichols Road are the best routes from the North shore of Long Island via the Long Island Expressway (I–495). The L.I.E., as it is known, extends from the Queens–Midtown Tunnel in Manhattan to just outside the town of Riverhead on the east side of Long Island. VETERANS MEMORIAL HIGHWAY (EXIT 57 OFF L.I.E.): Travel South on Veterans Highway (Rt 454) to Sunrise Highway (Rt 27). Take Sunrise eastbound to Waverly Avenue (Exit 52). The college entrance and parking facilities are located 1000 feet beyond the traffic light on Waverly Avenue. PATCHOGUE–HOLBROOK ROAD (EXIT 61 OFF L.I.E.): Take the Patchogue–Holbrook Road (Rt 19) south. This road will eventually become Waverly Avenue. Take Waverly just over the Sunrise Highway overpass and make a left at the light, onto the Sunrise Highway service road. The college entrance and parking facilities are located 1000 feet on the right. NICOLLS ROAD (EXIT 62 OFF THE L.I.E.): Nicolls Road (Rt 97) intersects Patchogue–Holbrook Road. Take Patchogue–Holbrook south. This road will eventually become Waverly Avenue. Take Waverly just over the Sunrise Highway overpass and make a left at the light, onto the Sunrise Highway service road. The college entrance and parking facilities are located 1000 feet on the right. FROM SUNRISE HIGHWAY: Sunrise Highway (Rt 27) extends from the Queens County border to the Hamptons. Rt 27 itself runs from Brooklyn to Montauk. Sunrise Highway intersects other major roadways such as the Southern State Parkway, Veterans Memorial Highway, Sagtikos Parkway/Robert Moses Causeway, and most North/South roads on Long Island. From the East: Travel west on Sunrise Highway (Rt 27) to Exit 52. Turn left at the first light onto Waverly Avenue, over the overpass, then turn left again at the next light onto the Sunrise Highway service road. The college entrance and parking facilities are located 1000 feet to the right. FROM THE WEST: Travel east on Sunrise Highway (Rt 27) to Exit 52 – Waverly Avenue. Continue on the Sunrise Highway service road. The College entrance and parking facilities are located 1000 feet beyond the traffic light, past Waverly Avenue. By Train: Take the Long Island Railroad to Patchogue station on the Montauk Branch. Take the SCT bus S–63 to Waverly Avenue and Roe Blvd (college entrance) http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=655 Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley “Fitness Fridays” Teach Fitness for Life Physical education at Locust Valley Middle School and High School is more than just learning the rules of volleyball, badminton, and other team sports. The program incorporates teaching students how to stay fit for life and how to have fun doing it. Fitness Fridays are one of the ways that the physical education teachers promote a variety of fun activities that not only keep youngsters in shape, but can be continued throughout their lifetimes to help them remain fit. During Fitness Fridays, which are scattered throughout the school year, an assortment of activities are set up in the gymnasium and arranged in stations. Moving in groups, students visit each of the stations, trying out hula hoops, balancing equipment, stationary bikes, mazes, and more. Fast-paced music plays in the background, motivating participants to get their heart rates up, and encouraging them to dance – another healthy physical activity. “We are trying to instill the values of lifelong health and wellness in all of our students,” explained Mark Dantuono, Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics. “We have the opportunity to introduce these values in physical education classes and we provide students with the necessary tools to take their fitness activities beyond that 40-minute period.” The Locust Valley High School fitness rooms are open to all middle and high school students daily. Without the need to pay for a gym membership, kids can use weight machines, aerobic equipment, and more. Many of the activities, such as running and jumping jacks, can even be done at home. Mr. Dantuono said that introducing young people to a variety of activities creates the likelihood that they will gravitate towards something and stick with it. The program also shows them how easily physical fitness can be incorporated into their lives with simple acts. “We stress the importance of performing fitness-based activities throughout the year, and throughout their lives, not just in school.” He added that the program would not be possible without the support of the physical education teachers. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=688 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Bayville Intermediate School fifth graders experienced what architects and engineers do when they are about to build a structure. After studying geodesic domes in geometry and learning that these buildings are extremely stable due to their shape, the students built their own geodesic dome from newspaper, using the very same principles applied by professionals. A geodesic dome is a spherical structure with triangular elements that provide support – think of an igloo. To start, the class studied shapes and discovered that triangles are the most stable polygon since compression at one joint is balanced by tension along the opposite side, and therefore the most common shape used to build geodesic domes. The future engineers and architects first built miniature geodesic domes using toothpicks and gumdrops to explore this geometric concept. After successfully creating the candy domes, the class moved on to the life-size version, which students could actually enter. Using a dowel to roll newspaper as tightly as possible, three rolls were then attached to form a triangle. Each triangle served as the base for the next one, sharing sides with each other. The project required students to use their geometry skills to ensure that each triangle was exactly the same size. This enrichment activity was organized by Bayville teachers Lori Pace and Joe Aragonesi as part of a geometry unit in math. Art teacher Erin Keys also contributed to creating the sturdy structure. Mrs. Pace observed that the project illustrated to students how geometry relates to real-world problems. “They were able to see that the geometry skills they were learning could be applied to professions such as engineering and architecture,” she explained. “Added benefits were the reinforcement of the importance of teamwork and accuracy, and of course, that the children had so much fun building the dome!” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=692 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to every LVHS winter varsity sports team for being recognized as New York State Scholar Athlete Teams. In order to be eligible for this honor, each team must have a cumulative GPA of 90 or higher. Hard work and dediaction academically and on the field are required to meet the standards of being a scholar-athlete team. The nine scholar-athlete teams are: Boys Basketball- Conference V Co-League Champions Girls Basketball- Nassau County Class B Champions. (They will compete for Locust Valley's first-ever Class B Long Island Championship - come cheer them on Tuesday March 9th, at 5:00 p.m. at St. Joseph’s College in Patchogue) Boys Bowling Girls Bowling Cheerleading Kickline Wrestling (Second place in Division I Conference IV) Boys Winter Track Girls Winter Track Congratulations to all the athletes and coaches on a successful season! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=682 Wed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students at Ann MacArthur and Bayville Primary Schools celebrated the 100th Day of school with songs, prizes, and mathematical fun! As part of the annual event, students participated in activities that encouraged them to count to the number 100, sing about numbers, and use math skills to estimate how many items were in a jar. The events included wearing glasses shaped like the number 100, handing out phony one hundred dollar bills, and recognizing the one hundredth student to enter the building. It is a day that incorporates a lot of fun with the mathematical skills the students in Kindergarten through second grade are learning. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=681 Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} Bentley University junior guard Kim Brennan, a Locust Valley High School alumnus, has been selected for the All-Northeast-10 Conference first team. Brennan has led the Bentley Falcons women’s basketball team to an 18-9 regular season. Brennan enters the upcoming conference playoffs as the only NE-10 player in the top five in both scoring and assists. Her scoring average of 16.6, best-ever by a Falcon point guard, is third in the Northeast-10, and her assist average of 4.6 ranks fourth. She’s also in the top ten in the conference in minutes, free throws made and attempted, free throw percentage, three-point accuracy and assist-turnover ratio. Brennan was a starter in all 90 games of her college career and has scored 20 or more points ten times this season. Four of those have come in the last nine games, a stretch in which she’s averaged nearly 19 and shot 44 percent from three. She was also a second-team All-NE-10 pick as a sophomore and the conference’s Freshman of the Year two winters ago, and is up to 15th on Bentley’s all-time scoring list with 1,247 points. That’s the fifth highest total ever recorded by a Falcon prior to her senior season. Congratulations to a Locust Valley graduate who is still making us proud! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=676 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Robotics team was awarded two first place trophies at the First Lego League Long Island Regional competition. The first place honors were earned for best robot design and for best presentation. Participants included Locust Valley Middle School and Elementary School students. The Robotics team has won four first place awards this season and two second place awards. Way to go Locust Valley! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=677 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT ALL LV SCHOOLS ARE CLOSED TODAY, FRIDAY, FEB. 26 DUE TO THE INCLEMENT WEATHER http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=674 Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT Saturday's Science Olympiads Event is Cancelled http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=675 Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT MS Guidance Information Night for 7th Grade Parents is CANCELLED due to inclement weather. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=673 Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Girls Varsity Basketball Nassau County Championship game, which they won, will be on MSG Varsity Network tonight, Tuesday, February 23 at 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. Tune in to see the Lady Falcons take the title of Nassau County Class B Champions! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=669 Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} Thanks to a grant and lots of creativity and hard work, Mindy Spear’s first-grade class at Ann MacArthur Primary School will soon become published authors. Mrs. Spear applied for and won the $409 grant from the Kids in Need Foundation. The funds will be used to upload each student’s personal narrative story to lulu.com, an online service that will publish the story as a paperback book. The class began the school year writing in their journals regularly. Each student then chose one journal entry that could grow into a personal narrative story. Over several months, the authors learned how to organize a story, how to choose a focus for the book, and how to edit their own work. The final versions of each story will be typed on the computer and illustrated. Finally, the narratives will be sent to lulu.com and bound as paperbacks, making each young writer a published author! Families will be invited to “Kids Do the Write Thing”, an author’s day celebration at which every book will be projected onto a screen and read for the audience. Mrs. Spear plans to order a second set of books to donate to the Kids in Need Foundation for other children to enjoy. Photo Caption(l-r): Mrs. Mindy Spear and AMP Assistant Principal Michele Salerno at a Board of Education meeting at which Mrs. Spear was recognized for applying for and receiving the grant. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=667 Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT LVHS Varisty Wrestler Rob Alfano advanced to the semifinals of the Nassau County Tournament in the 189 lb. weight class. The Locust Valley Wrestling team performed exceptionally well this season. This has been one of the strongest performances from this Wrestling program in the past 10 years. Congratulations to the following grapplers who earned All-Conference. Champions: 103- Sam Ward 140- Jack DiTuro 189- Robert Alfano Second Place: 145- John Guerriero Third Place: 96- Christian Briody 160- Joe Casalino Fourth Place: 125- Kellen Dougherty 135- Alex Hochberg The following wrestlers also earned All-Conference and placed sixth: 96- Dan Casalino 152- Joseph Ronzetti 171- Sam Casella http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=632 Sun, 14 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Girls Varsity Basketball Team has advanced to the Nassau County Class B Championships! The Falcons defeated Malverne High School on Saturday, Feburary 13 to advance the championships. Great job to first year Head Coach Mike Guidone and his assistant Shawn Miley and to all of the members of the Varsity team on a great season! Come cheer the girls on at the Nassau County Championship game on Saturday, February 20 at C.W. Post at 6:30 p.m. Admission is $6. Congratulations to the players and coaches on this outstanding accomplishment! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=637 Sun, 14 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School students became the teachers when they visited Locust Valley Intermediate School to educate the fifth graders on the dangers of smoking. As part of the Teens as Teachers program, members of the high school SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) club were trained by the Long Island Tobacco Coalition. Eight teen teachers visited four elementary classes to lead a tobacco prevention presentation. An interactive lesson kept the classes engaged. Students were asked to read the names of the ingredients in cigarettes, which had been written on sheets of a paper towel roll. Each time an ingredient was read, that sheet of paper towel was ripped off by the fifth grader and placed in a large white cylinder representing a giant cigarette. Once the cylinder was filled with crumpled up words like ammonia, arsenic, butane, carbon dioxide, formaldehyde, and so many more, the teen teachers held it up and asked, “Would you want to smoke all of these things?” The students unanimously answered “No!” With the guidance of the teen teachers, the elementary students performed skits to show what they had learned during the lesson. Mock commercials against smoking and simulated peer pressure scenarios exhibited that the young learners understood the dangers of smoking, as well as many different ways to say no if offered cigarettes. Some of the strategies included saying “I don’t want to die,” “I have a sore throat,” and “I don’t want my clothes to smell bad.” Marianne Masopust, high school social worker and SADD club advisor, said the lesson was beneficial for all the students involved. “The high school students gain self-esteem from being role models and knowing they are making a difference in a child’s life, while the younger students are learning valuable lessons and tools.” Locust Valley Intermediate School psychologist Kathleen Goeren observed that hearing the message from their teen mentors makes a bigger impact than receiving the message from adults. “This age group looks up to teenagers so much, making them the perfect vehicle for delivering the anti-smoking message.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=649 Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT Today is a half day for all students due to Superintendent's Conference Day. Middle School and High School students will be dismissed at 10:49 a.m.. All elementary school students will be dismissed at 11:30 a.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=643 Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT Former Yankees right-fielder Rusty Torres recently visited the students in the Locust Valley Intermediate School SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) Club and shared with them the importance of making good decisions. Dressed in Yankee pinstripes and the signature blue “NY” turtleneck, Torres told the group of third through fifth graders the importance of thinking things through, not giving in to peer pressure, and making healthy choices. For the 120 members of the school’s SADD Club, his message reinforced the values that drive the club in the first place. SADD club advisor Marc Galloway said having a professional athlete speak to the students makes a tremendous impact. “They look up to athletes as role models and are influenced by them,” Mr. Galloway explained. “Students are more likely to listen to a positive message from a role model.” The enthusiastic young fans brought baseballs, bats, tee shirts, and lots of paper for the baseball player to sign. Although Mr. Torres played for the Yankees in the 1970s – before they were even born – the students were clearly starstruck. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=638 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT The National Junior Honor Society induction at Locust Valley Middle School reaffirmed the fact that Locust Valley students are exceptional! The ceremony marked the acceptance of 85 students into an exclusive organization which can be joined by invitation only. It takes more than achieving a high grade-point average to become a National Junior Honor Society member. Students must exhibit qualities of leadership, service, character, and citizenship, along with scholarship. While the honorees are only in the seventh and eighth grades, they have already proven they are well-rounded citizens by performing altruistic acts, taking leadership roles in school and the community, and challenging themselves academically. The newest members of this club participated in the traditional candle-lighting ceremony, inscribed their names in the Honor Society book, and pledged to be model students, giving their time and energy to school activities. Board of Education President Jack Dolce, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund, and Middle School Principal Dr. John Christie each spoke to the large group of inductees. Additionally, middle school musicians Amanda Caso, Gregory Caso, and Donald Valicenti performed a musical interlude. Ms. Kelly Fallon and Mrs. Jennifer Tichy, National Junior Honor Society advisors, organized the ceremony, and work with the members throughout the year on various projects. Congratulations to all the inductees and their families! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=626 Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School is proud to announce that for the first time ever, two students have been named National Merit Scholarship Finalists by the College Board based on their exceptional performance on the Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Tests (PSAT). High School Seniors Corrine Hastings and Eric Padilla have achieved an honor bestowed upon less than one percent of high school seniors nationwide. The PSAT was taken by 1.5 million high school juniors in 2008. Of those students, Corrine and Eric were among only 16,000 to be designated as semifinalists and are now in an even more elite group of finalists made up of one percent of all the students taking the PSAT. The College Board shares the names of students who earn these distinctions with colleges and universities. As finalists, Corrine and Eric are now eligible to receive scholarships of $10,000 towards their college educations. These scholarships can come from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, corporate sponsors, or the universities the finalists attend. Some colleges and universities such as C.W. Post and Fordham give National Merit Finalists a full scholarship. Locust Valley High School also had nine National Merit Scholarship Commended Honorees, including Corrine and Eric. The other seven are Eerik Helmik, Casey Hochberg, Alessandra Sorrento, Cristina Sorrento, Alexander Spear, Daniel Ventresca, and Cecilia Wachter. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=627 Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT The simple act of receiving a greeting card can put a smile on your face, and opening a handmade card is even more special. Local veterans will feel greatly appreciated when they read the special Valentine’s Day cards created just for them by students at Bayville Intermediate School and Bayville Primary School. Every class in the school made “Valentines for Veterans” in the hopes of putting smiles on the faces of those who have served our country. In addition to benefitting the veterans, students learned from the experience. “Each student felt pride in the card he or she designed and learned how it feels to do something for someone you don’t even know,” explained Bayville Intermediate Principal Scott McElhiney. Mrs. Jodi Irizarry said her fifth-grade students at Bayville Intermediate enjoyed the chance to be creative and even learned new art techniques during the process. “They really wanted the cards to be nice,” she said. “They created pop-up hearts, cutout designs, and wrote heartfelt messages.” The Valentine’s Day cards will be sent to the Nassau County Veterans Service Agency. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=628 Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT Bills were presented, the pros and cons argued, and finally votes were taken. The same effort and emotion was displayed in this simulated role-play process as in the actual House of Representatives. However, these were Locust Valley High School seniors learning how the government works, during the school’s 21st annual Congress in Action. Students each assumed the character of a member of the House of Representatives, developed a bill as part of a committee, and argued for the passing of the bill during Student Mock Congress. The entire senior class participated in the event, which gave students a great understanding of how our government works. Additionally, it provided a feel for the challenges that politicians are faced with when trying to pass new legislation, as students listened to their peers argue both for and against the bills they presented. Each student congressperson performed extensive research to ensure that the bills were factual and could withstand the scrutiny of the student congress. The experience was very realistic, as students’ bills were reviewed by their committee members and revised until the full committee was satisfied. Congressional Committees represented included Agriculture, Appropriations, Transportation and Infrastructure, and Ways and Means. The congressional committees chose bills that could actually be proposed in the United States Congress. These bills included the amendment of the Clean Air Act, a tax credit for new businesses, the discontinuation of junk food sales in public schools, and the elimination of the death penalty, among others. The bills were topical, usually having a connection to current events. Locust Valley Social Studies Chairperson David Ethe explained that Congress in Action teaches students a variety of skills that will aid them throughout their education and in their future careers. “It provides our students with skills to enhance their public speaking and research methodologies, as well as teaching them to work together cooperatively and to compromise,” Mr. Ethe remarked. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=622 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School’s literary magazine, Perspective, has been recognized by the National Council of Teachers of English with a ranking of “Excellent.” LVHS is one of only 29 schools in the state to receive the honor among middle and high schools. Only ten of the schools are from Long Island. Perspective was also recently awarded a silver medal from the American Scholastic Press Association. Please see related story on the home page of this website. Congratulations to Perspectives advisor Amy Rosenbaum and the student editors, Emma Charno, Ana Asano, Monica Farrell, and Megan Tausch, all of whom worked hard and deserve this recognition. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=623 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT Students at Bayville Intermediate School had the opportunity to view the Earth in its entirety, just like astronauts do! With the help of a 19-foot inflated model of the Earth, third through fifth-grade students learned about landforms and oceans, the continents, rainforests and deserts, animal life, plate tectonics, and so much more. While the giant Earth balloon’s massive size is impressive from the outside, the geologists-in-training also experienced our planet from the inside, as they entered the balloon for a video presentation projected onto its interior. The experience offered Bayville students a new sense of perspective of size, scale and distance as they learned that each inch of the balloon, which is created to scale, represents 60 miles of actual land or water. The BOCES program was brought to the school by the Bayville PTA. “This presentation was an incredible educational experience for our students,” stated Scott McElhiney, principal of the school. “It was a dynamic way to reinforce the geography portion of the curriculum at each grade level, engaging the students with such impressive visuals. We appreciate the PTA’s generosity in providing students with activities that are both fun and educational.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=615 Fri, 29 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} It is probably safe to say that Locust Valley Middle School eighth-grader James Sorbara is an ardent fan of spelling bees. After all, he did become the school’s spelling bee champion after correctly spelling the word “ardent.” James had some tough competition, not just from the more than 50 students that participated in the bee, but especially from second-place winner and fellow eighth-grader John Accera. The two were battling it out for several rounds as each of them was required to correctly spell the word that the other student missed. All of the participants exhibited excellent spelling skills and sportsmanship, and can feel proud for winning the first rounds of the competition in their individual classrooms. Middle School teacher Barbara LaBella, the spelling bee’s moderator, said the event helps students improve their spelling, increase their vocabularies, learn concepts, and develop correct English usage that will help them throughout their lives. James will now go on to compete in the next level of the spelling bee, which is a written round that will take place on February 4th at the Hebrew Academy of Nassau County in Plainview. Success at that competition will place James in the Long Island Spelling Bee finals on March 11th. Congratulations to James and all of the spelling bee participants, and good luck to James as the spelling bee continues! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=610 Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT The High School Interact Club raised $1,400 for charity during a book signing event which brought five young adult authors to share their personal stories and the inspirations for their books with the community. Hearing published authors speak about how they came up with their book ideas or what inspired them to become writers can be just the motivation a young person needs to entertain the idea of a career in writing. “Events like this help students see the human sides of the authors they read,” explained Edward Cannone, District ELA Coordinator. “This, in turn, helps them question the authors and visualize themselves in the same career.” Interact Club President Alexa Rivadeneira, a senior at LVHS, organized the book signing after meeting one of the authors herself. “I asked her if she would be willing to do this and she helped us get the other authors involved as well.” Each of the authors said they were thrilled to be part of an event that was raising money for worthwhile causes. All of the proceeds from the event were donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the Children’s Tumor Foundation. The authors, Jen Calonita (Secrets of My Hollywood Life and Sleepaway Girls), Gitty Daneshvari (School of Fear), Micol Ostow (So Punk Rock) and Lou Berger (The Elephant Wish) each addressed the attendees and signed books that were available for purchase. Mr. Berger shared stories about his years as a writer on Sesame Street, while Ms. Daneshvari explained that her story began due to the many fears she had as a child. The $1,400 raised came from the book sales and a $5 entrance fee. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=611 Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Third graders at Locust Valley Intermediate School recently had the opportunity to read to their parents and other guests. What made this event so special was that the young authors were reading their own stories aloud – sharing their writing with the audience. Karen Kriesberg’s class learned to write personal narrative stories and experienced the joy of holding an author’s celebration when the work was complete. Gathering the ideas, writing drafts and revisions, editing, and publishing their stories was a process that taught them how to be writers. Reading the final pieces to their guests helped them feel pride in their work. Through their written stories, they invited the audience into moments in their lives. Audience members filled out comment cards after hearing the presentations, to tell the authors how the stories made them feel. “This feedback is important, for it is extraordinary for an author to have a reader say ‘your words mattered’,” explained Mrs. Kriesberg. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=613 Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT On Thursday, January 21 at St. Anthony’s HS, The Girls Varsity Winter Track Team finished in 4th place in the Nassau County Conference 6 Championships. Senior Karissa Chiantella led the team as she earned All-Conference Honors in 3 events; 1st place 1000m, 2nd place 1500m, 2nd place Triple Jump. The O’Neil sisters helped the point total with Senior Fiona O’Neil finishing in 6th place overall in the 1000m and Grainne O’Neil breaking a school record in the 600m finishing 8th overall. Sprinters Kayla Graziani, Denise Beauchamp, and Stephanie Mysholowsky finished the individual events with personal bests in the 300m. The Boys Winter Track and Field Team had an outstanding evening as each team member reached a personal best during the Nassau County Conference 6 Championships at Suffolk Community College. Numerous school records were set throughout the night. Senior Henry Jansen started the record breaking night with a 4th place finish in the 600m breaking a school record shared by 4 athletes. Sophomore Tom Parisi followed with a 4th place finish in the long jump with a school record of 17'5"! Henry and Tom were also apart of two relay teams that broke school records. Henry led off the 4x800m relay followed by Captain Matt Rieger, senior John Udisky, and sophomore Kevin Jania. Parisi led off the 4x200m relay followed by seniors Rob Converse, Wally Gurzynski, and sophomore Kevin Jania. Sophomore Peter Hogya contributed to the teams overall point total as he paced 5th in the shot put with a season high 33'11"! Congratulations to both programs and Coach Lee and Coach Murawski! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=601 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT All after school activities at Locust Valley Middle School and Locust Valley High School are cancelled today, Monday, January 25, due to severe weather conditions. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=602 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT January 22, 2010 Dear Parents, It was recently brought to our attention that a Commack High School Coach, who was also a part-time Teaching Assistant at Locust Valley Middle School for four months, was arrested for an alleged incident in Commack of misconduct involving a minor. The alleged incident did not occur in Locust Valley, nor did it involve any Locust Valley students, staff, or residents. This employee has been suspended without pay and will not have any contact with students in our district nor will he be permitted to enter school property. The district will continue to cooperate fully with the police and will continue to make the safety and well-being of our students and staff a top priority. Sincerely, Anna F. Hunderfund, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=600 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School students have excelled on a national level once again by winning three awards from the American Scholastic Press Association. The LVHS newspaper, The Spectrum, took first place with a gold medal, while the high school Yearbook, Trident, and the Literary Magazine, Perspective, each won a silver medal for second place. Taking first and second place in this competition is quite an honor, as the association reviews each publication in its entirety - judging the layout, writing, and photography. "These awards illustrate the fantastic achievement that happens when students and teachers combine pride in their school with love of writing and publishing," stated Edward Cannone, Coordinator of ELA for the district. Congratulations to the staff of each publication and to their advisors, Coleen Comerford for The Spectrum, Tom Camilleri for Trident, and Amy Rosenbaum for Perspective. The complete list of winners in each category can be found at: http://www.asan.com/aspa1.htm http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=598 Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Lady Falcons earned a huge victory over Roosevelt 45-41. It was the team's third win in a row. Roosevelt entered the game in first place in the Conference with a record of 7-0. Locust Valley led 22-19 at the half and 33-32 after 3 quarters. Senior Courtney Morgan had a huge game, scoring 10 points, including 6-6 from the free throw line to ice the game in the final minute and a half of the fourth quarter. Fellow Senior Alexis Monserrate had 12 points and Freshman Brooke Spallino added 11 points on 3-3 shooting from three-point land. Special honors go out as well to Senior Taylor Coddington, whose defense help shut down Roosevelt's high scoring guards. The Lady Falcons return to the court at Seaford on Friday at 6:30 p.m. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=599 Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Through the generous support of the Locust Valley Friends of Wrestling and Falcon Pride, Locust Valley High School’s athletic department received a new state-of-the-art wrestling mat. Fundraising efforts by these community groups, including dinners, donations, and proceeds from concession stands, helped pay for the $12,000 mat. “We are so grateful to Friends of Wrestling and Falcon Pride for their generosity,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Anna F. Hunderfund. “This community is always supportive of our programs and this gift was a much needed one.” A dedication ceremony was held before a recent wrestling match and those involved were thanked for their continued dedication and support of the school district. Al DeStefanis presented the mat to the Board of Education and Administration on behalf of Friends of Locust Valley Wrestling. “We are proud of the wrestling program in Locust Valley and we are happy to support the coaches and the students,” Mr. DeStefanis said. Other members of the fundraising committee include Pat and Ed Minicozzi, Nancy and Al Staab, Sue and Aaron Cloninger, Tom Pillari, Ed Pidgeon, Jane and Rick Alfano, Allison and Pat Guerriero, Denise and Terry Walsh, Michael Berkowitz and Michael Briody. Committee members Michael Berkowitz and Michael Briody lead the youth wrestling program, which feeds into our high school program. They work together with Locust Valley High School Varsity wrestling coaches Joe Enea and Phil Soman, as well as the Junior Varsity coaches Jim Rogan and Bill Calandra. The Reslite wrestling mat contains Microban, which is a built-in antimicrobial protection that provides an added level of protection against most common bacteria. Mark Dantuono, Locust Valley’s Director of Physical Education, Health, and Athletics said the mat will be used for competitions only and is expected to last from 15 to 20 years. “This will help our other mat last longer as well, saving us additional money since we will only be using the older mat for practicing,” he explained. “The Locust Valley community is incredibly supportive of our athletic program and we couldn’t be more grateful.” The Locust Valley Central School District is grateful for the time and effort that goes into the many fundraisers that Friends of Locust Valley Wrestling holds in support of the high school wrestling program, including its third annual fund raising dinner on January 23rd, at 7:00 p.m. at the Bayville Firehouse. Please contact Friends of Locust Valley Wrestling at 516-578-9764 if you would like more information. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=597 Wed, 20 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley students from each of our schools immediately sprang into action upon hearing of the devastating earthquake in Haiti. In such a civic minded school district, there was no shortage of plans help. In Bayville, the school’s SADD Club and Student Council are working together on a coin collection for the Haitian disaster victims. “Our students and club advisors wanted to help, as they always do when people are in need,” said Principal Scott McElhiney. “The school as a whole felt that we had to do something for those people less fortunate than ourselves. I am so proud of our student body for always putting others first.” Across town in the Locust Valley elementary schools, the earthquake hit a little closer to home, as one student has family in Haiti who has not yet been heard from. Her class is coordinating a collection as well, and is thinking of other ways they can help. Principal, Dr.Sophia Gary said the children want to help anyway, but knowing that one of their classmates has actually been affected by this tragedy makes them even more eager to do something. “They understand that the people in Haiti have nothing and that they have the ability to help. They want to do as much as they can,” Dr. Gary said. The student council is also organizing a fundraiser. Locust Valley Middle School and High School are also each holding coin drives in an effort to help. Middle School students are collecting coins in common areas of the school such as the Principal’s office, cafeteria, and in social studies classes. “The student government is always performing community service, so this is nothing new for them,” explained Middle School Principal Dr. John Christie. “As soon as they heard of the disaster, they started thinking of ways to help.” Besides the coin drive at the high school, Interact Club advisor Amy Watson said students will organize one or two bake sales to raise money. “All of our clubs are going to work together on raising as much money as we can,” Mrs. Watson noted. “Our students are extremely civic minded and could never stand by without doing something in a situation like this one.” High School Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire said he had no doubt that his student body and faculty would band together to help. “Our students and staff are always devoting time and energy to altruistic acts,” he explained. “I knew this time would be no different.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=562 Thu, 14 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Falcons of Locust Valley earned their third victory of the season with a hard fought win over cross-town rival Friends Academy. Locust Valley Boys Varsity Basketball team, led by a strong defensive effort, held the Quakers of Friends Academy to a total of 31 points. Tom Sheehan led a balanced scoring attack with 18 points (15 first half points). Alex Rawa contributed 8 points and 10 rebounds while Chad Cloninger recorded 10 points and 8 rebounds. Ryan Ries came off the bench to finish with 7 points to close out the game for the falcons. The Falcons return to action Thursday night when they face the Trojans of Garden City. Tip-off is at 6:30 at LVHS. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=554 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School students displayed their talents in writing, directing, and performing during the Fourth Annual Writers/Directors Monologue Showcase: “Secrets.” The audience enjoyed original comedic and dramatic scripts written and performed by LVHS students themselves under the direction of Mr. Lawrence Lynch. The cast featured Anastasia Canonica, Sophia Ioannou, Dylan Mazza, Mike Piazza, Samantha Prosser, Peter Schultz, Nathaniel Szymkowicz, Anna Stacy, and Austen Terry. Congratulations to the entire cast on a wonderful performance! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=555 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School Alumna Kim Brennan, Class of 2007, has been having a wonderful career for the Bentley University Women’s Basketball Team. Since the start of 2010 she has helped spark the Bentley Falcons to victory three times. Below is an excerpt from the Bentley University website. The full story can be found at: http://www.bentley.edu/athletics/pr_view.cfm?id=821948 "The backcourt tandem of junior Kim Brennan (Locust Valley, N.Y./Locust Valley HS) and sophomore Katherine Goodwin (Goffstown, N.H./Governors Academy) have helped spark the Falcons to the three straight wins to open January. Brennan has averaged 17 points and shot 50 percent from the field in the three games, and Goodwin has netted 14.7 points per game over the same stretch." http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=556 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} If you have a question about geography, just ask Locust Valley Middle School sixth grader James Babinsky. His knowledge of several areas of geography earned him first place in the school’s Geography Bee. James will now go on to compete in the National Geography Bee. This elimination-style bee required participants to answer difficult questions under strict time restraints. Topics included map reading, questions about cities, U.S. and world geography, as well as historical and cultural geography, and the geography of extremes (such as weather). Locust Valley Central School District’s Social Studies Chairperson, David Ethe, encourages students to study hard for the bee. “It reinforces the importance of this topic,” he explained. “This is one way of teaching different forms and types of geography.” Sponsored by the National Geographic Society, the winner from each school competes in the National level of the bee by taking a written exam. Mr. Ethe will administer the exam to James, who beat out 23 other students from the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades to gain the title of geography bee champion. Each of those students won a similar competition in their individual social studies classes. “They all showed incredible knowledge,” Mr. Ethe noted. “James obviously studied hard and it showed, as he was focused and answered all of his questions without much hesitation.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=557 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT LVHS senior Cristina Sorrento has been chosen as a Semifinalist in the Intel Science Talent Search. Cristina, who was also a Semifinalist in the 2009 Siemens Competition will receive a $1,000 award from the Intel Foundation with an additional $1,000 going to her respective school. Cristina was also a semifinalist in the Siemens Competition and this is the first time that a Locust Valley student has been a semifinalist in both competitions. Intel looks not just at the science behind the paper submitted, but at academics, extra-curricular activities and more for each student that enters the competition. “This is a real testament to the fact that Cristina is an overall top student and excels in many areas,” explained Locust Valley High School science teacher Christopher Hoppner, who advised all of the LVHS students on the papers they submitted. Papers were also submitted by Locust Valley High School students Eric Padilla, Alexandra Sharp, Max Turowsky, and Casey Hochberg. A total of 300 Semifinalists were chosen from the 1,736 entries received from 175 high schools across the country. This was the largest pool of applicants that Intel has seen for this competition since 1996. On Jan. 27, Intel will announce the 40 finalists to compete in Washington, D.C. in March for more than $630,000 in awards from the Intel Foundation. The winners will be selected based on rigorous judging sessions. The grand prize is a $100,000 award; the remaining top ten will receive awards totaling $305,000. Congratulations to Cristina and Mr. Hoppner on this accomplishement. Read the Newsday story by clicking here http://www.newsday.com/long-island/59-li-students-are-intel-science-semifinalists-1.886940. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=558 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Nassau County Department of Health will provide free H1N1 vaccinations at the Locust Valley Library. Date: Friday, January 22 Time: 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Place: Locust Valley Library Community Room Please note that a parent or guardian must complete a consent form and accompany their minor children receiving the vaccine. Children and adults are all welcome to receive the vaccine and no appointment is necessary. For more information, please call the library at 671-1837. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=559 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Our public Budget Roundtable scheduled for January 19th has been postponed due to uncertainty regarding actual and proposed cuts to state and federal aid for our school district for the current school year and for 2010-2011. Although the input of our community is of the utmost importance to our Board of Education and administration, credible planning for and related discussions regarding our 2010-2011 school district budget require accurate information about significant losses in revenue which are anticipated but not confirmed at this time. The Superintendent and Board of Education will provide members of our school community with the most current information available at our regular Board of Education meeting on January 19th at 7:30 p.m. Please join us at that time in our High School/Middle School Mini-Theater. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=552 Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley High School TV production class experienced the thrill of filming a live event and at the same time, the concert band learned what it was like to play in front of television cameras. The two groups came together in a collaborative lesson that was mutually beneficial, providing valuable experience for all the students involved. Robert Zahn, Locust Valley High School’s TV Production teacher, said his students had the opportunity to put all the skills they’ve learned together and experience the feeling of a live TV shoot. “These students have learned how to use the cameras, what to look for, and how to put it all together,” Mr. Zahn stated. “Filming a live concert that they cannot stop because they missed the angle – that’s knowledge they can’t gain otherwise.” Using professional television studio cameras, including a jib, which is on a crane, the young camera technicians listened to the calls from the director through headsets. The technical director, in front of a panel of screens, selected the shots to use, from swooping shots to closeups, while another student was in charge of audio and the whole crew worked together to create a seamless live production. “It’s invaluable for these aspiring filmmakers and camera operators to understand that the chaotic environment in which they hear directions being yelled out and changes being made in an instant, actually produces an end product that appears smooth and easy,” noted Mr. Zahn. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=553 Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT The Writers/Directors Monologue Showcase "Secrets" will be held Tuesday, January 12, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. in the MS/HS Mini-Theater. All monologues are student written and performed. Don't miss this opportunity to see the incredible display of talent by the LVHS students. Click here for more information. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=473 Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT The latest edition of the Locust Valley High School student newspaper, The Spectrum, is now availble on our website. Click here to read this award winning publication. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=543 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School hosted eight wrestling teams for the Locust Valley Invitational and The Falcons had five champions. Sam Ward 103, Jack Dituro 140, John Guerriero 145, Joe Casalino 160 and Robert Alfano 189 all won the tournament. This win was extra special for Robert Alfano, as it was his 100th career match! Congratulations to all the wrestlers on a job well done! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=551 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} Locust Valley Middle School students had an opportunity to see a piece of history first hand thanks to a LVCSD resident. Penny McElwain’s eighth-grade honors social studies class has been studying the Industrial Revolution and the important people and things that made that time period such a relevant part of American history. Henry Ford, the assembly line, mass production, and the growth and importance of the auto industry were a big part of this social studies unit. Local resident, Mr. Walka drove his 1930 Model A Ford to the middle school to give the class an opportunity to see for themselves what came out of the very time period they were learning about. Mr. Walka, who has a step-child in Mrs. McElwain’s class, restored the Model A with his father and now drives it for pleasure and enters the vehicle into competitions. Social Studies Chairperson David Ethe said the class curriculum was enhanced by Mr. Walka’s visit. “This authentic car enriched the students’ knowledge and interest in this time period in United States history.” Thank you to Mr. Walka for taking the time to share this special piece of history with Locust Valley students! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=538 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Middle School students had an opportunity to see a piece of history firsthand thanks to a LVCSD resident. Penny McElwain’s eighth-grade honors social studies class has been studying the Industrial Revolution and the important people and things that made that time period such a relevant part of American history. Henry Ford, the assembly line, mass production, and the growth and importance of the auto industry were a big part of this social studies unit. Local resident Mr. Walka drove his 1930 Model A Ford to the middle school to give the class an opportunity to see for themselves what came out of the very time period they were learning about. Mr. Walka, who has a stepchild in Mrs. McElwain’s class, restored the Model A with his father and now drives it for pleasure and enters the vehicle into competitions. Social Studies Chairperson David Ethe said the class curriculum was enhanced by Mr. Walka’s visit. “This authentic car enriched the students’ knowledge and interest in this time period in United States history.” Thank you Mr. Walka, for taking the time to share this special piece of history with Locust Valley students! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=539 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Middle School is proud to announce that an exceptional number of students have made the honor roll and high honor roll for the first semester. An impressive 156 students have been placed on the honor roll and an outstanding 231 students earned the designation of being placed on the high honor roll. This is an achievement that comes from hard work and dedication. Congratulations to all! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=540 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT The holiday season may already be behind us, but some fourth graders at Bayville Intermediate School are still reaping the benefits of some holiday learning. Fourth-grade teacher Ann Monsees used the holidays as a tool to reinforce science, math, and problem-solving skills, and these lessons will serve her students well as they dive into more intricate lessons during the latter half of the school year. Miss Monsees decided to give each of her students a holiday gift. She wrapped the items in festive paper and handed them out to the class. But there was a catch. Before the children could open the gifts, they had to guess what was inside, using the skills they had been learning all year. Gifts in tow, the class headed into the science lab and began their investigations. The small boxes were weighed on scales and measured with rulers, using math and science skills. Students determined what the gifts could not possibly be based on this information – another important skill, especially in test taking. Teamwork was also a big part of the lesson, as students worked in pairs. “This lesson was a great way to incorporate the fun of the holidays with skills we have been learning all year,” Miss Monsees explained. “The students loved the excitement of it and will take that into 2010.” Bayville Intermediate School Principal Scott McElhiney noted that the lesson was a creative way to reinforce important skills. “This was a terrific opportunity to engage the students and to show them that math and science can be fun.” In the end, most of the class was able to deduce that the gifts were playing cards – another item that can enhance skills using numbers, grouping, and so much more. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=541 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT Three Cheers for the LVHS Varsity and JV Cheerleaders! For the second year in a row, the Locust Valley Varsity and JV cheerleaders collected teddy bears to donate to children for the holidays. The community service project was part of a bigger teddy bear collection effort by the New York State Fraternal Order of Court Officers. The cheerleaders requested teddy bears from students, staff members, and the community to make the holidays a bit more special for some less-fortunate children. After collecting more than 50 bears, the entire squad, along with Coach Doreen Kobus, delivered the cuddly toys to the Nassau County Courthouse in Mineola. Joseph Cannella, the organization’s president, spearheaded the teddy bear drive, which is in its sixth year. With a total of 1,300 bears donated this year, Mr. Canella said they were able to deliver teddy bears to Winthrop University Hospital, Winthrop Pediatric Oncology Ward, Franklin General Hospital, Nassau University Medical Center, Schneider’s Children’s Hospital, Ronald McDonald House, the Interfaith Nutrition Network, and St. Ann’s Outreach. Coach Kobus explained that the cheerleaders love to perform community service. “It makes them feel good knowing that they are making children happy,” she said. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=528 Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Middle School student government collected socks for soldiers and toys for the Matthew Fetzer Toy Drive this holiday season. The collections will help soldiers serving our country who need warm socks, and provide toys for children who are stuck in hospitals for the holidays. The group collected more than 60 pairs of tube socks and about 200 toys as well. Student Government advisor Meris First said she heard about the idea for the socks from the radio station Z100 and decided to join in with their efforts. “It’s important to teach the students about helping others, especially this time of year,” she said. The toy collection for the Matthew Fetzer Toy Drive is an annual event that each school in Locust Valley participates in. Matthew was a student in the Locust Valley Central School District who sadly lost his battle with cancer five years ago. It was his dream to deliver toys to sick children at the holidays after seeing how many children did not receive gifts due to the hardships placed on their families. Matthew’s family fulfills his dream and the Locust Valley students are always a huge part of the collection. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=529 Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT The dates and locations of the upcoming NYSSMA solo and ensemble festivals have been announced. Registration forms will be available mid January from any music teacher. Please note that a new NYSSMA manual went into effect July 1, 2009 and performance pieces must be selected from this manual. Students should see their music teachers to confirm that the piece they are working on is listed in the current manual. The festival schedule is as follows: NYSSMA Classical Guitar March 16 & 17 at Plainview-Old Bethpage Non All-State NYSSMA Solo and Ensemble Festival March 22 & 23 at Friends Academy NYSSMA All-State Festival April 23 & 24 at Port Washington NYSSMA All-State Jazz Festival May 7 & 8 at East Meadow NYSSMA Piano Festival May 11, 12 & 13 at CW Post College http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=526 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Intermediate School Chorus and the Locust Valley High School cheerleaders took their shows on the road, performing songs and cheers from their winter concert for the residents of Glen Cove Nursing Home. Feet were tapping to the beat - the feet of the children performing and those of the audience! In this two part event, the LVI Chorus visited the nursing home one day and the cheerleaders perfomed at the home the next day, spreading the cheer out for the elderly residents who smiled thorugh both performances. This was a wonderful opportunity for the students in many ways. They gained experience performing as well as gaining the satisfaction of providing holiday cheer for others. It was also a joyous experience for the residents of Glen Cove Nursing Home as they had a live concert for the holidays. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=527 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Members of the LVHS Chamber Orchestra, Chamber Singers, Jazz Band, String Orchestra, Concert Chorale, and Symphonic Band presented a delightful array of music at the school's winter concert. Audience members left already anticipating the Spring Concert! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=521 Fri, 18 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School Students Receive Outstanding Early Acceptances to Nation’s Top Colleges and Universities! During the last week, an outstanding number of college acceptances have already been received by Locust Valley High School seniors – incredible, given that acceptance letters are just beginning to be sent out from colleges and universities! Almost 40 students have received notices that they have been accepted to the colleges of their choice. Almost ten percent of the senior class was accepted to one of the nation’s top schools including, Duke, Johns Hopkins, Columbia, Cornell, University of Michigan, Brandeis, Mount Holyoke and more! Congratulations to all of the students on this honorable achievement. The District learned as this story was being published that a senior was just accepted to the Boston College Honors Program, which only enrolls about 50 students annually! Below is a complete list of schools to which Locust Valley High School students have been accepted. Adelphi University Boston College Honors Program Brandeis University Bucknell University University of Colorado-Boulder Columbia University Cornell University (2 students accepted) Drexel University Duke University Emerson College SUNY Farmingdale Flagler College Georgetown University Johns Hopkins University Maritime Mt. Holyoke NYIT (5 students accepted) Penn State Potsdam Savannah College of Art and Design Siena College St. John's University (6 students) SUNY Maritime Tulane University University of Wisconsin-Madison University of Michigan (5 students accepted) University of Vermont (2 students accepted) http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=522 Fri, 18 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT The audience at Locust Valley Intermediate enjoyed a beautiful winter concert performed by the orchestra, band, and chorus. It really put everyone in the holiday spirit! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=518 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Middle School Auditorium was filled with beautiful music as the 7th and 8th grade band, chorus, and orchestra performed outstanding renditions of the classics! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=519 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Usually, visiting the zoo means actually going there. However, Bayville Primary School kindergarten students had the opportunity to visit the Indianapolis Zoo without ever leaving the school library! Through the Indianapolis Zoo’s Distance Learning Program, students had a two-way videoconference with a representative from the zoo. A total of four schools participated in the conference and the presenter was able to hear and see the students from all the schools. The interactive presentation focused on The Mitten, the classic story by Jan Brett, about a lost mitten and the animals that find it. Students were introduced to some real-life versions of the book's characters after reading the story. The presenter taught the students interesting facts about each animal described in The Mitten. The Kindergarteners were raising their hands enthusiastically whenever the zoo representative asked them a question. They could also see the students from the other schools when it was their turn to answer questions. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=520 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Middle School musicians performed in two beautiful winter concerts. The sixth grade kicked off the winter concert series, while the seventh and eighth graders continued the musical bliss later in the week. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=508 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Bayville Intermediate School musicians performed in the annual winter concert and impressed parents, faculty, and friends with their talent! The orchestra, band, and chorus played and sang songs that sounded as though they had been practicing together far longer than the four months that school has been in session! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=509 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Long time resident, Al Staab was recently honored by the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame for his continued support of the LVCSD athletic programs. The residents, students, parents, faculty, and staff of the Locust Valley Central School District are grateful for Mr. Staab's dedication to our youth. Congratulations on this well deserved recognition!! Reprinted is below is the excerpt about Al Staab from the recognition ceremony program. Frank Luisi Contribution to Youth Football Honoree Alfred Staab Alfred graduated from Locust Valley High School in 1973 where he was a stand-out three sport athlete in football, basketball and track. For the past fifteen years, Alfred has been a pillar of the Bayville and Locust Valley communities. He founded the Oakneck Athletic Council, which is both a parent and fundraising organization. Under his direction, they started youth programs in football as well as wrestling and lacrosse. He has been a coach, board member and town representative for Oak Neck Football, which has been one of the pre-eminent youth football programs in Nassau County. Alfred was responsible for the building of a lighted, turf football field, which the youth program currently uses for practices and games. Included in this construction were bleachers, a score board, a coaches’ box for filming, and a building which houses meeting rooms, a storage room for equipment, public restrooms, and a snack bar. Alfred has helped to establish Falcon Pride, a non-profit organization to raise money for both the middle school and high school sports programs. Included in the projects was a new state-of-the-art sound system for the high school wrestling room and a new score board for the football field. Alfred and his wife Nancy currently reside in Bayville and have two children, Christina and Alfred Jr. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=507 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} An impressive 70 students were inducted into the National Honor Society at a traditional ceremony at Locust Valley High School on December 9, 2009. LVHS Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire spoke to the inductees about the qualifications needed to be invited into this exclusive society. Students must exhibit scholarship, service, leadership, and character. Dr. McGuire described what is meant by those qualifications and said the inductees are all exemplary students and citizens. High School students Eric Padilla and Zoe Vinegar each performed a piano solo during the evening’s ceremony. Zoe was inducted into the National Honor Society during the ceremony, while Eric was already a member. Inductees participated in the traditional candle lighting ceremony and recited the National Honor Society pledge. Board of Education President Jack Dolce and Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Anna Hunderfund addressed the inductees and their guests and offered their congratulations on such an incredible accomplishment. Congratulations to all the new inductees! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=497 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT An impressive 70 students were inducted into the National Honor Society at a traditional ceremony at Locust Valley High School on December 9, 2009. LVHS Principal Dr. Kieran McGuire spoke to the inductees about the qualifications needed to be invited into this exclusive society. Students must exhibit scholarship, service, leadership, and character. Dr. McGuire described what is meant by those qualifications and said the inductees are all exemplary students and citizens. High School students Eric Padilla and Zoe Vinegar each performed a piano solo during the evening’s ceremony. Zoe was inducted into the National Honor Society during the ceremony, while Eric was already a member. Inductees participated in the traditional candle lighting ceremony and recited the National Honor Society pledge. They also signed the National Honor Society book. Board of Education President Jack Dolce and Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Anna Hunderfund addressed the inductees and their guests and offered their congratulations on such an incredible accomplishment. Congratulations to all the new inductees! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=498 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School students competed in the Protein Modeling Challenge for High School Students and performed very well. It was the first time Locust Valley has entered this competition, hosted by the Center for Science and Mathematics Education (CESAME) at SUNY Stony Brook, and Sponsored by the OSI Pharmaceuticals Foundation. Two teams of three students each presented their entries to the judges, the Graduate Students in the Biological Sciences at SUNY Stony Brook as well as scientists and Engineers from OSI. This event has three parts: a pre-built model (Part I), an on-site build model (Part II) and an on-site exam (Part III). Team 1 seniors Nick Panetta, Michael Schramm, and John Bruscella. Team 2 included junior Patricia Roth, and sophomores Jaime Jaget and Cristina Boutros. Team 2 will become team 1 for next year’s competition, giving them the experience they need to do even better than this year. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=499 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Two juniors at LVHS will have their artwork on display at Long Island University: CW Post from December 28, 2009 through January 27th, 2010. Megan Tausch and Oriana Asano were chosen by LVHS art teachers Melanie Mooney and Donna Chaplin based on the originality of their work as well as the skill involved in the mediums, and the ability to communicate ideas through visual language. A reception will be held on January 27th at the University with an awards ceremony from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. The exhibit and the reception are in the Hillwood Student Art Gallery at C.W. Post “This is a great opportunity for the students to display their artwork at the University,” said Ms. Mooney. Congratulations to Megan and Oriana! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=500 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT LVHS Alumna Kim Brennan (class of 2008) is scoring big with Bentley University basketball fans as one of the top scorers on the womens team. Congratulations to Kim! Read all about Kim's accomplishments by clicking these links: http://www.bentley.edu/athletics/pr_view.cfm?id=813722 http://www.bentley.edu/athletics/pr_view.cfm?id=815018 http://www.bentley.edu/athletics/pr_view.cfm?id=815112 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=495 Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Two LVHS Varsity Football players have been chosen as Scholar Athletes by the National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame. Seniors Brandon Davis and Sam Rozzo were recognized for having excelled on the athletic field, in the classroom, and in the community. Both Brandon and Sam maintain a grade point average of 95 or better. Their names will be permanently inscribed in the kiosk at the National Football Foundation College Hall of Fame. The foundation presented each honoree with a commemorative plaque at a brunch in their honor. Congratulations to Brandon and Sam for working hard, playing hard, and making a difference in our community! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=496 Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the Girls Winter Track team! The team had a stellar performance at the first track meet of the season beating school records and earning several medals. At the Nassau County Coaches Association Holiday Relays Karissa Chiantella won a sixth place medal in the 1000 with a time of 3:17.1. Rose Lucida, Fiona O’Neil, Kayla Graziani and Stephanie Lucida were a part of the girl’s open 4 x 400 relay and broke the Locust Valley school record with a time of 5:03.7. Taylor Bleistein, Lucy Hayes, Denise Beauchamp and Kassandra Brexel were a part of the girl’s sophomore 4 x 400 meter relay and won a third place medal with a time of 4:59.3. Taylor Bleistein, Kassandra Brexel, Stephanie Mysholowsky and Lucy Hayes were a part of the girl’s sophomore 4 x 200 meter relay won a second place medal with a time of 2:03.5. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=483 Tue, 08 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Matthew Fetzer Toy Drive conducted by the HS Interact Club culminated with a truck full of toys being presented to the Fetzer Family this week. Each school in the district holds a Matthew Fetzer Toy Drive and details will be posted on the website as they each come to an end. The toy drive is held each year In memory of Matthew Fetzer, a Locust Valley student who lost his battle with Leukemia almost five years ago. Interact collected toys and held fundraisers such as a bake sale to raise money to purchase toys for the drive. The toys will be distributed to children in local hospitals by Matthew's family who started this toy drive to honor their son's dreams. Matthew’s parents, Ann and Bill Fetzer said he really wanted to give children in hospitals something to smile about. “He always said that when he got better he was going to collect toys for the children. He was so sad for them that they did not get toys for Christmas,” Ann Fetzer said. Matthew understood that many families could not afford Christmas presents with all the medical expenses they had to pay. The toys will be distributed along with the toys collected throughout the district, to Schneider’s Children’s Hospital, Winthrop University Hospital, and Columbia Presbyterian – all hospitals Matthew spent time in. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=482 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT 2009-2010 Nassau County Fall Section VIII Athletic Awards Name Grade Sport Award Kevin Jania 10 Boys CrossCountry All Division John Udisky 12 Boys CrossCountry All Division Joe Gilio 10 Boys Soccer All Conference Mike Lejuez 11 Boys Soccer All Conference Aubrey Cannone 12 Field Hockey All County Taylor Spallino 12 Field Hockey All County Bairre Reilly 9 Field Hockey All Conference Molly Ross 12 Field Hockey All Conference Meghan Collins 11 Field Hockey All League Danielle Heintz 12 Field Hockey Exceptional Senior Corinne Hastings 12 Field Hockey Scholar Athlete Jessica Craft 10 Field Hockey Unsung Hero Robert Alfano 12 Football All County Kevin Carrigan 12 Football All County Marc Mauro 12 Football All County Chad Cloninger 12 Football All Conference John Guerriero 12 Football All Conference Anthony Nastasi 12 Football LIAFO Unsung Hero Brandon Davis 12 Football Nat.Football Foundation Sam Rozzo 12 Football Nat.Football Foundation Karissa Chiantella 12 Girls CrossCountry All County Fiona O'Neill 12 Girls CrossCountry All Division Ali Sorrento 12 Girls CrossCountry All Division Rose Lucidi 12 Girls Soccer All Class Sara Berke 12 Girls Soccer All Conference Stephanie Lucidi 11 Girls Soccer All Conference Cordi Craig 12 Girls Soccer Scholar Athlete Alexandra Sharp 12 Girls Tennis All Conference Brianne Yonkers 12 Volleyball All Conference Mary Leah Milnes 10 Volleyball Scholar Athlete TEAM ACHIEVEMENTS Football: Big 4 Champions & Nassau County Conference IV Finalists http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=477 Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Ten of the high school's athletic teams have received the honor of being named scholar-athlete teams. For a team to qualify for scholar-athlete status, the members must have a cumulative grade point average of 90 or above - an incredible accomplishment for these teams during a season that requires many practices and games. Congratulations to the following scholar-athlete teams: Boys Cross Country Boys Golf Boys Soccer Cheerleading Field Hockey Girls Cross Country Girls Soccer Girls Tennis Volleyball Kickline http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=478 Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Bayville Intermediate School fifth graders had a party to benefit others – it was a gift wrapping party. The students, their teachers, and parent volunteers wrapped gifts collected by the four classes to donate to the NY Cares Winter Wishes program. Bayville teacher Lisa Cameron organized this community service project, in which the students fulfilled the holiday wishes of families who might otherwise not receive holiday gifts. NY Cares sent Ms. Cameron letters from children requesting holiday items – some asked for shoes or clothing, and others wanted toys and games, such as checkers. A total of 36 children’s wishes were fulfilled by the four fifth-grade classes at Bayville Intermediate. For each of these children, several gifts were donated, even if they only asked for one. Some Bayville families donated the requested gift items, while others supplied wrapping paper, ribbon, tape, bows, and all the necessary items to make the gifts look beautiful. Several parents attended the wrapping party to help the students get all the gifts holiday ready. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=480 Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} Congratulations to members of The Spectrum staff for receiving seven awards from the Empire State School Press Association, which sponsors an annual competition for high school publications. This is commendable improvement for The Spectrum, the LVHS student newspaper, which received one award in this competition last year. Noelle Antignano received two awards – a gold award as a photographer and an honorable mention in the news photography category Wally Gurzynski received two awards – Silver for front page and bronze for design. Alex Spearwon a silver award in the entertainment/review category. Cory Rabiea also won a silver award in the entertainment/review category. Gabrielle Sant’Angelo won the silver award in the columnist category. The Spectrum also recently received the Gold Medal from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association for the second year in a row. The Spectrum is posted on this website for the entire community to read. Congratulations to the entire staff for an outstanding job!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=481 Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Spectrum, the LVHS student newspaper is now available on our website. Click here to view the latest edition from November 13, 2009.. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=472 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT Students at Bayville Primary School celebrated Thanksgiving with songs and stories that reminded them what they are thankful for this year. Dressed in feather headdresses and Pilgrim hats, the entire school came together to listen to Principal Scott McElhiney read a Thanksgiving story. Songs about being thankful followed as each students sang along, smiles on their faces. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=462 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT Each year at Ann MacArthur Primary School, the Thanksgiving holiday is kicked off with a reenactment of the Mayflower Crossing by Kindergarten classes. This year was no different. Dressed as Pilgrims and Native Americans, the students acted out the event complete with songs about the historical moment. Participating in the annual Crossing of the Mayflower not only teaches kindergarteners about the history of our forefathers, but also enhances their art, music, and presentation skills. All the costumes are created in the classrooms and decorated by each “Pilgrim” or “Native American.” The activity brings together many aspects of the curriculum and is enjoyed by the participants as well as their parents who are invited to attend. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=460 Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT LVHS alumna Eileen Chamberlain Donahoe was featured in The Leader for being nominated to become the U.N. Ambassador. See The Leader's story below. LVHS Alumna Gets Obama Nomination • LC Colgate Locust Valley High School alumna Eileen Chamberlain Donahoe has been nominated by President Barack Obama to be the U.N. Ambassador to the United Nations Human Rights Council. Ms. Chamberlain Donahoe is the daughter of the late John Chamberlain, a local attorney and former Locust Valley school board member and Eileen B. Chamberlain of Locust Valley. While at Locust Valley High School, Ms. Chamberlain Donahoe was an honor student, a cheerleader, was on the track and acted in school musicals. She was also a homecoming princess. After graduation, she earned a bachelor’s degree from Dartmouth College, a master’s in theology from Harvard and both a law degree and master’s in East Asian Studies from Stanford University. She also has a Ph.D. in Ethics from the University of California’s Graduate Theological Union. Donahoe, age 50, an affiliated scholar at the Center for International Security and Cooperation (CISAC), has also worked with various human rights organizations including The Lawyer’s Committee for Human Rights and Amnesty International’s Ginneta Sagan Fund, where she did strategy work related to human rights concerns of women and children. She is a resident of Portola Valley, CA, and chaired the National Women for Obama Finance Committee. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=461 Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Interact Club held its annual blood drive in the MS/HS Mini-Theater. Students, parents, and staff members alike came out to support this cause and donate their time as well as a pint of blood. Members of Interact ran the blood drive, welcoming donors, escorting donors to their seats, and overseeing the entire event. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=444 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Intermediate School Student Council coordinated a food drive to help local families, but before delivering the baskets of goodies, the students added a special touch – handmade greeting cards. Locust Valley families who cannot afford a Thanksgiving feast will receive all the fixings from appetizers to after dinner mints, and every basket will contain a card from the students wishing them a Happy Thanksgiving. Every class at the school had a basket in their room for students to donate food. The student council supervised the collection and put each of the baskets together with the handmade cards. Student Council Advisors Monica Cagney and Jane Benstock helped the children organize the food drive. “This is a wonderful activity for the students to realize that there is need in their community and to experience the joy of giving,” Mrs. Benstock said. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=445 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT The SADD Club at Bayville Intermediate School wanted to give soldiers a sweet holiday season so they collected leftover Halloween candy to send overseas for our troops. These elementary school students collected over 150 pounds of candy for soldiers all over the world to enjoy! This is the first time that the SADD club participated in the Candy for Care Packages. The children decorated posters and collection boxes for students and community members to drop off their unwanted Halloween candy for soldiers. Over 150 pounds of candy was donated by school families and community members. The candy donations will be included in care packages sent to soldiers all over the world. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=446 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} Locust Valley High School’s Interact Club collected food from Bayville residents by leaving brown paper bags for them to fill up with food. Students then collected the filled bags and donated the food to the St. Gertrude Parish Food Pantry in Bayville. The Interact Club also collected items to create and distribute an entire turkey dinner to families in need. Items include a roasting pan, stuffing, cranberry sauce, canned vegetables, gravy, and pumpkin pie filling as well as a laundry basket to hold the items. The baskets were delivered to the Grenville Baker Boys and Girls Club of Locust Valley, to aid in its Thanksgiving food drive. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=447 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Middle School students have been dropping canned goods in boxes in the lobby of their school for the past two weeks. The Student Government will donate all the food to the Harry Chapin Food Bank, a charitable organization that supports more than 500 food pantries, shelters, and soup kitchens. Over the past seven years, the LVMS Student Government, advised by Home and Careers teacher Meris First, has donated more than a ton of non-perishable food items. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=448 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT The High School's Interact Club is holding a blood driveon: Date: Thursday, November 19, 2009 Time: 8:00a.m. -1:30 p.m. Where: The MS/HSMini-Theater Parent donors will be given first priority. You may show up on Thursday or schedule an appointment through the Interact Club by contacting Interact advisors Lisa Czerniecki, lczerniecki@lvcsd.k12.ny.us, or Amy Watson, awatson@lvcsd.k12.ny.us. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=443 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Jesters presented a spectaular performance of “The Diary of Anne Frank” by Francis Goodrich and Albert Hackett. The play won the 1956 Pulitzer Prize for drama. It also has won the Tony Award, Critics Circle Award, and virtually every other coveted prize of the theatre. The LV Jesters did this drama justice with their own acclaimed performances. The Jesters’ production featured Anna Stacy, Eric Padilla, Elizabeth Siliato, Zoe Vinegar, Matthew Walsh, Rita Mae Sylvester, Ernest Schieferstein, Steven Liberto, Cecilia Wachter, and Kyle Flanagan. The showwas directed by Abbe Gail Gross. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=429 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the following Locust Valley orchestra students chosen to perform in the Long Island String Festival Association (LISFA) elementary/middle school concerts. Performances will takeplaceat West Hempstead High School on February 28, 2010. Congratulations also to orchestra teachers Mr. Benstock, Mrs. Buzzeo and Mr. Yavoski! Locust Valley Middle School: Charles Stacy III Grade 7 Violin Sarah Miller Grade 7 Cello Aija Zamurs Grade 6 Violin Locust Valley Intermediate School: R. Lewis Grade 5 Viola L. SanAntonio-Bialecki Grade 5 Viola http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=430 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT Telling stories around a campfire may sound more like something you would do on vacation, rather than in the classroom. But in Ann Monsees’ fourth-grade class at Bayville Intermediate School, campfire stories are a regular part of the curriculum. Sitting around the campfire and reading stories is Ms. Monsees’ way of getting her students excited about books. By reading aloud or having the children present book reports in a circle by the campfire, reading becomes more fun. “Everyone wants to read around the campfire – it’s a lot more exciting than sitting at their desks,” Ms. Monsees noted. The fourth-grade teacher purchased the simulated fire pit for her classroom in order to provide the students with a new experience. Bayville Intermediate School Principal Scott McElhiney said he is proud that his teachers do an excellent job in making their lessons memorable and lots of fun. “Miss Monsees’ campfire reading lessons will certainly help make meaningful connections for the students in her class.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=422 Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Jesters will present “The Diary of Anne Frank” by Francis Goodrich and Albert Hackett on Saturday, November 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, November 15 at 3:00 p.m. The play won the 1956 Pulitzer Prize for drama. It also has won the Tony Award, Critics Circle Award, and virtually every other coveted prize of the theatre. The Jesters’ production features Anna Stacy, Eric Padilla, Elizabeth Siliato, Zoe Vinegar, Matthew Walsh, Rita Mae Sylvester, Ernest Schieferstein, Steven Liberto, Cecilia Wachter, and Kyle Flanagan. The show is directed by Abbe Gail Gross. Tickets are $5.00 in advance and $8.00 at the door. For more information, call (516) 277-4144. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=419 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT Congratulations to the following students for being accepted to play in the All County Music Festivals at the Tilles Center!! Locust Valley High School All-County Division 5 CONCERT - SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2010 7:30 P.M. TILLES CENTER, C.W. POST COLLEGE, GREENVALE, NY NAME Instrument Grade Nicholas ParenteBand Trumpet11 Michael SchrammBand Alto Sax 12 Caroline BrugoMixed Chorus Soprano 11 Steven Liberto Mixed Chorus Bass12 Eric PadillaMixed Chorus Bass12 John BruscellaOrchestra Violin12 All-County Division 4 CONCERT - SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2010 2:00 P.M. TILLES CENTER, C.W. POST COLLEGE, GREENVALE, NY Christina Guerra Band Clarinet 9 Courtney Miller Orchestra Violin 10 Locust Valley Middle School All-County Division 3 CONCERT - FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2010 8:00 P.M. TILLES CENTER, C.W. POST COLLEGE, GREENVALE, NY Alex Van patten Band Baritone 8 Anne Hollmuller Band Double Bass 8 Catherine Boutros Chorus Soprano 7 Konrad MatthaeiChorus Baritone 7 Cameron Carrella Jazz Band Trumpet 7 Rebecca CameronOrchestra Violin 8 Sarah Miller Orchestra Cello 7 Andrew Wee Orchestra Violin 7 All-County Division 2 CONCERT - SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2010 12:00 P.M. TILLES CENTER, C.W. POST COLLEGE, GREENVALE, NY Sydney Hochberg Band French Horn 6 Shanaz Sanjan Chorus Soprano 6 Alanna Siegel Chorus Soprano 6 Joseph MadsenOrchestra Double Bass 6 Patrick Vaughan Orchestra Cello 6 Bayville Elementary School All County Division 1E CONCERT - SUNDAY, JANUARY 10, 2010 12:00 P.M. TILLES CENTER, C.W. POST COLLEGE, GREENVALE, NY J. OstroffBand Alto Sax 5 R. Flory Chorus Alto5 T. LomonacoChorus Alto 5 R. PasseroChorus Alto 5 E. PepeChorus Alto 5 N. Vanpatten Chorus Alto5 C. VasquezChorus Alto 5 M. Fischer Orchestra Viola 5 M. Mullen Orchestra Viola 5 B. WrightOrchestra Cello 5 Locust Valley Elementary School All County Division 1E CONCERT - SUNDAY, JANUARY 10, 2010 12:00 P.M. TILLES CENTER, C.W. POST COLLEGE, GREENVALE, NY J. Ganzer Band Trumpet 5 M. Boutros ChorusAlto 5 J. Flores ChorusAlto 5 I. Giordano Chorus Alto 5 C. Hoyt Chorus Alto 5 D. Laffey Chorus Alto 5 G. Schmitz Chorus Alto 5 C. Brennan Orchestra Violin 5 R. Lewis Orchestra Viola 5 L. San Antonio-Bialecki Orchestra Viola 5 D. Sisson Orchestra Cello5 http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=420 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Varsity Football team defeated the Floral Park Knights 20-0 and will now go on to compete for the Conference IV County Championship at Hofstra University on Nov. 19th at 7:00 p.m. Admission is $6. Go Falcons!!!!!!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=421 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School students are up for any academic challenge, so when they were invited to participate in The Long Island Challenge, they stepped up to the plate. The contest, in which Locust Valley competed against Carey High School aired on Nov. 15. For anyone who missed it, News12 will run the show sporadically over the next few weeks, so keep checking. The LV team did a superb job and the final score was very close! The Long Island Challenge, sponsored by News12, is an educational televised quiz show designed to test students' knowledge of history, arts and literature, science and math. A total of 64 teams from across Long Island are competing this fall. Teams advance through an elimination system to the next round with the possibility of playing in the County Championship, Regional Championship, and Tri-State Championship. The LVHS team consisted of Eerik Helmick, Eric Padilla, Veronica Palumbo, Cristina Sorrento, and Alternate Elizabeth Siliato. The students were selected by taking a qualifying exam which included typical Long Island Challenge quiz bowl questions. The team has been coached by LVHS math teacher Lisa Marino. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=413 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT At Locust Valley Middle School, students are learning about history by repeating it. The process of creating their own cave paintings has helped one social studies class to understand this ancient art first-hand. Mrs. Mason’s sixth-grade social studies class participated in a collaborative lesson with art teacher Mrs. Mooney. During a unit on cave paintings, students not only learned how to analyze these pictures, but also learned how to create them. “The students explore and invent what cave art tells us about how early humans lived and why they made art,” explained Mrs. Mooney. “They benefit from the collaboration between art and English language arts because they are empowered to see cave art from two different perspectives.” While Mrs. Mason worked with half the class teaching them how to understand cave drawings, Mrs. Mooney taught the other half of the class how to express their ideas with paint in the same way that cave art expressed the hope, dreams, and grief of our ancestors 20,000 years ago. “Cave art is so fascinating. The capacity for abstract thought is part of what makes us human. We can see that kind of thinking evolve on the walls of caves thousands of miles away,” said Mrs. Mason. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=414 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School and Middle School students conducted the largest experiment in the school’s history. A pumpkin drop with the help of the LV Fire Department was a creative way for Middle School science, High School physics, and the Engineering Club to use their skills in determining speed, projectiles, and Fermi estimation skills. The LVFD brought their bucket truck and with the help of Assistant Principal Tom Hogan, dropped pumpkins, water balloons, and a bucket of water onto a tarp from a height of over 50 feet. Additionally, the Engineering Club used the Trebuchet that they made to fling a pumpkin a great distance. Students stood on the sidelines taking notes and making calculations. When the experiment ended, classroom teachers discussed the experiment with students and reviewed their findings. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=415 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT Ann MacArthur Primary School’s second graders honored Veterans in a moving ceremony. What made this program special was the important guests that were sitting in the audience. The 20 Veterans in attendance were family members, friends, and neighbors of some of the second graders. Through poems and songs, these youngsters expressed their appreciation for the dedication and hard work of these soldiers. Each Veteran received a flower and attended a reception after the ceremony. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=417 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Jesters will present “The Diary of Anne Frank” by Francis Goodrich and Albert Hackett on Saturday, November 14at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, November 15at 3:00 p.m. The play won the 1956 Pulitzer Prize for drama. It also has won the Tony Award, Critics Circle Award, and virtually every other coveted prize of the theatre. The Jesters’ production features Anna Stacy, Eric Padilla, Elizabeth Siliato, Zoe Vinegar, Matthew Walsh, Rita Mae Sylvester, Ernest Schieferstein, Steven Liberto, Cecilia Wachter, and Kyle Flanagan. The show is directed by Abbe Gail Gross. Tickets are $5.00 in advance and $8.00 at the door. For more information, call (516) 277-4144. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=418 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT LVHS student Karissa Chiantella finished 11th overall in the Nassau County Cross Country Championships on November 7th, at Bethpage State Park. In the process, Karissa shattered the Locust Valley High School record by 23 seconds running 19:46 for the 5000 meter course.She has qualified to compete in the New York State Championship race on Saturday, November 14th, at SUNY Plattsburg. Congratulations to the entire Cross Country Team on a fantastic season! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=410 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Varsity Football team won the first game in the playoffs, advancing them to the Nassau County Conference IV Semifinals for the third consecutive year. The Falcons defeated East Rockaway 47-0 in the first round of the playoffs. Senior Running Back Marc Mauro had another gridiron great performance as Newsday considered it one of the top performances of the week. He rushed for over 200 yards and had three touchdowns! The Falcons willplay in the semifinals against the Floral ParkKnights at Hofstra University this Thursday at 4:00 p.m. Tickets are $6 at the door. Go Falcons! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=411 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Jesters will present “The Diary of Anne Frank” by Francis Goodrich and Albert Hackett on Saturday, November 14at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, November 15at 3:00 p.m. The play won the 1956 Pulitzer Prize for drama. It also has won the Tony Award, Critics Circle Award, and virtually every other coveted prize of the theatre. The Jesters’ production features Anna Stacy, Eric Padilla, Elizabeth Siliato, Zoe Vinegar, Matthew Walsh, Rita Mae Sylvester, Ernest Schieferstein, Steven Liberto, Cecilia Wachter, and Kyle Flanagan. The show is directed by Abbe Gail Gross. Tickets are $5.00 in advance and $8.00 at the door. For more information, call (516) 277-4144. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=408 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT After reading his books, creating artwork based on his stories, and learning about his life, students at Ann MacArthur Primary School and Locust Valley Intermediate School had the opportunity to meet author James Howe in person! The writer of more than 80 children’s books was the guest at Author’s Day, sponsored by the Locust Valley Parent Council. Mr. Howe shared writing tips with the students, including stories about where he gets his ideas, how he creates a book, and how long it takes him to finish just one story. Second graders dressed as characters from some of Mr. Howe’s most popular stories and created clues for the audience so they could guess who they were. Having read so many of the writer’s series, nobody was stumped! In this photo, students hold a mock-up of one of James Howe's books before it was finalized. The author explained that after the story is illustrated, he often makes more revisions to make the words andpictures work better together. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=409 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Locust Valley Girls Cross Country team finished third in the Conference Championships and qualified for the County Championship. This is the fourth consecutive year that the team has qualified for the Nassau County Championships, which will be held on Saturday, Nov7 at 2:15 p.m. at Bethpage State Park. Karissa Chiantella finished third in the Conference 4 championship race with a season best time of 20:07 for 5000 meters. Karissa broke the LVHS senior class record for the third time this year. Go Falcons! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=404 Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT The LVHS Varsity Football team earned a piece of the Conference IV Big IV title, posting a record of 5-3 and placing third overall in the conference. TheFalcons will host a home playoff game against East Rockaway HS on Saturday, November 7 at 2:00 p.m. Go Falcons! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=405 Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT Courtney Miller, a 10th grade violinist at Locust Valley High School, has been accepted to perform with the Long Island String Festival Orchestra (LISFA) during their secondary festival on November 15th in Levittown. Congratulations to Courtney and her orchestra teacher Mrs. Buzzeo! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=406 Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT Students had a chance to show off their creative sides during the Halloween parades at Bayville Primary and Locust Valley Primary Schools. Dressed as ghosts, goblins, and ghouls, the students were too cute to be scary! For Intermediate School students, the Locust Valley Parent Council sponsored the Halloween Hullabaloo and the Bayville PTA held the Halloween Howl. Both events provided a fun and safe place for children to enjoy Halloween with games, food, and of course, more costumes! Thank you to our parent organizations for providing a safe outlet for our children on Halloween! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=407 Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice spoke to high school students about the dangers of drinking and driving, using drugs, and Internet Safety. Through real life examples of cases she has prosecuted, Ms. Rice told the students she was trying to scare them in order to keep them from making destructive decisions. Students were told that if they are caught driving while under the influence, they risk losing their drivers license until the age of 21; that they could kill someone, including a child; and that they would be convicted of a felony – an offense that would prevent them from getting a job or being admitted to college. Additionally, the DA reminded the group that photos they post on the Internet via social networking sites such as Facebook could adversely affect their lives as well. Colleges perform Internet searches on applicants before deciding if they should admit them and employers do the same, she explained. The visit, organized by the LVHS Parent Council, was part of Red Ribbon Week, which focuses on teaching students to make good decisions. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=400 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT Click here for the Middle School Fall Sports Schedule http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=401 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT The class officers at Bayville Intermediate promised to work hard as they took an oath administered by Bayville Mayor Victoria Siegel. Mayor Siegel told the students that she would help them anytime since their constituents are also hers. Board of Education President Jack Dolce told the group he was proud of them and knew they would do a great job in the very important role they were taking on. The student government holds several fundraisers throughout the year to benefit the school as well as outside charities. Advisors Scott Gallager and Christine Hujber organized the induction ceremony and help the students run their activities throughout the year. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=402 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT All games are cancelled today due to rain. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=393 Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT LVHS Junior Mike Lejuez was named Player of the Week by Nassau County Boys Soccer. Mike is the goalie for the LVHS Varsity Soccer team. Click here to view the story on the Nassau County Boys Soccer website. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=386 Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT Varsity Field Hockey on 10-27 is cancelled. Rescheduled for 10-29 at 4:15 at LVHS. MS Tennis at Carle Place on 10-27 is cancelled due to rain. This match will not be rescheduled. 8th Grade Girls Soccer at AMP on 10-27 is cancelled. MS Field Hockey on 10-27 rescheduled for 10-29. The Middle School Cross Country meet scheduled for 10-26 has been rescheduled for 10-27at 4:15 p.m. atJericho High School. The MS 8 Football team will play at Centre Island on October 30 at 4:15 p.m. against Jericho. The JV Football game scheduled for October 31 has been moved to October 30 at 4:15 p.m. at LVHS. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=385 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT Voted as class officers by their fellow classmates, Locust Valley Intermediate School’s 2009 Student Government was inducted into office during a school-wide assembly. Board of Education President Jack Dolce administered the oath recited by the inductees. By taking this oath, students promised to attend all student government meetings, to come prepared, and to do the best job they could do. Mr. Dolce also spoke to the students about what an honor it is to be a leader. Student Government advisors Monica Cagney and Jane Benstock coordinated the induction ceremony and will guide the students throughout the year. The Student Government performs many important community service acts, some of which raise funds for charities. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=378 Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT LVHS Senior, Cristina Sorrento has been chosen as a semifinalist in the 2009 Siemens Competition. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first semifinalist that Locust Valley has had in this competition since 2003. We had six entries by nine students. The other students were Eric Padilla, Max Turowsky, Alexandra Sharp, Mark Vessalico, A.J. Nickas, Hope Craig, Jaime Jaget, and Sami Limperis- Kaufman. Each student worked hard and entered a paper that was exceptional. They were all fantastic papers, and they should all be proud of their accomplishments. “I am very proud of Cristina’s accomplishments, and equally proud of all my students who worked hard to submit papers worthy of the Siemens Competition,” stated Chris Hoppner, Locust Valley High School Science Teacher. Siemens is considered by many to be the premier science, math, and technology competition in the nation. The papers submitted must follow strict guidelines as to structure, length, and topic. These papers are read “blind”, meaning that no student name, gender, school affiliation, town, university, mentor name, or any other identifying factor can be part of the paper. The papers are graded specifically on the science of the research completed. From approximately 1,200 entries, only 300 are chosen as semifinalists. Cristina’s paper was titled: The Regulatory Effects of p21WAF1/CIP1 On Mesenchymal Stem Cell Proliferation and Differentiation Following Ionizing Radiation. It focused on the fact that although radiation therapy is useful in treating cancer, it is limited by its damaging effects on normal cells. The clinical effects of radiation therapy are well-known, but the effects of radiotherapy are not as well-known at the molecular level. Radiotherapy prevents progression through the cell cycle and inhibits cellular differentiation. P21 (a gene product and cell-cycle inhibitor which limits these processes) expression is increased after radiation therapy. Cristina’s study investigated the effects of p21 expression on stem cell differentiation and proliferation following radiation therapy. Cristina and the other students from LVHS put in exhaustive amounts of work either in the field, in a lab, or under the guidance of a mentor scientist. Cristina worked this past summer at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Manhattan, working up to 40 hours each week. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=379 Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT Red Ribbon Week at Locust Valley and Bayville Elementary Schools celebrated students making good decisions. At each of the four elementary schools, the singer/songwriter Steve Seskin performed. Mr. Seskin wrote the song, “Don’t Laugh at Me,” which is one of the anchors for a national program that promotes an anti bullying message. Mr. Seskin performed several of his own songs, each of which had lyrics that focused on being a good friend, doing the right thing, and just being nice. Students sang along, clapped, and laughed as they listened to the performance. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=380 Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT In most schools, student artwork is displayed on the walls for all to see. But a sixth-grade art class at Locust Valley Middle School had nothing left to hang on the walls after a recent project because they ate their creations. Luckily, they did not create sculptures or even use real paint. These artists used cupcakes as their canvas and frosting as the paint. Through an interdisciplinary lesson that married the Art and Home & Careers classes, students baked cupcakes and learned how to create new colors using the frosting to decorate them. Given only red, blue, and yellow frosting, these artistic bakers were asked to frost their cupcakes in colors including violet, orange, and green. They created an entire edible color wheel. “I thought it would really engage the students if I taught color mixing using icing,” explained art teacher Donna Chaplin. “I thought it would be fun to have the students bake the cupcakes which would serve as their “canvas” as a motivating activity to their color mixing lesson.” The project was part of the study of color theory. Students won’t likely forget that blue and red make purple or that yellow and blue make green, since they had so much fun learning those facts. Since the Family and Consumer Science program incorporates all educational disciplines into the curriculum, combining the two classes fit in perfectly. “As part of the content material, students are taught how they can utilize information they learned and interrelate that information with other classes,” said Meris First, the Home and Careers teacher. She added that following a recipe can help students learn to follow directions – an important skill needed for test taking. Additionally, learning about the color wheel will help students when they study room design, which is another benefit to the interdisciplinary lessons. Locust Valley Middle School Assistant Principal Tom Hogan applauded the teachers for using creativity to educate their students. “Mrs. Chaplin thought the marriage of the two subjects would benefit the children and she was right!” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=377 Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT The entire Board of Education was honored on Tuesday, October 20, which was designated Board Recognition Night in Locust Valley. Students, teachers, faculty members, and representatives of the various parent organizations gave thanks to the Board with handwritten jumbo cards, homemade cookies (student-made to be exact!), and various thank you gifts. Although those thanking the Board ranged from students to administrators, the sentiment was the same – “Thank you for the support you give us year after year!” This week has been designated School Board Recognition Week by Governor David Paterson as a way to thank school boards statewide for their dedication and commitment to their communities. Locust Valley certainly appreciates the dedication and commitment of these volunteers. Thank you to our Board of Education: Jack Dolce, President; Suzanne Sgueglia, Vice President; Dr. Yao Chu, Philip Bellisari, Erika Bruno, Joseph Madsen, and Ronald J. Walsh Jr. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=376 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT Nassau County Assistant District Attorney, Guido Gabriele visited Locust Valley Middle School to give a presentation on Internet Safety. Mr. Gabriele’s focus was on teaching the sixth-and seventh-graders how to stay safe on the Internet and how to keep out of trouble. By using a slide show presentation and discussing examples of cyber bullying, Internet predators, and hacking, the students learned that all of their Internet use may not be as private as they thought. The group received tips on avoiding strangers on the Internet and keeping their private information safe. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=366 Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT The sixth graders at Locust Valley Middle School probably never thought they would spend their science period outside burying chewing gum, plastic bottles, and candy. Nor did they realize such an activity could be educational. But the school’s ecology lab has proven that one man’s garbage can be a scientist’s buried treasure. The ecology lab, which is part of the sixth-grade science program, was developed to teach students what happens to items that end up in landfills, and had young scientists conducting an experiment that will help them learn firsthand just what happens to all that garbage. After a great deal of discussion, the classes each developed a list of common items that are thrown in the trash and then developed a hypothesis about whether each of these items will decompose, partially decompose, or never decompose. Armed with shovels and wooden Popsicle sticks to mark the burial spots, each science class dug holes one-foot-deep just outside their classrooms and buried a variety of items. The materials will be unearthed in May to discover how accurate the hypotheses were. Middle School Science teacher Michele Weiner explained that doing a project like this makes much more of an impact on students than just telling them which objects will decompose. “According to research, experiential knowledge is the most cohesive form of learned information,” she said. “Students will not just memorize information, but they will be able to synthesize concepts and evaluate the validity of this information.” Furthermore, Mrs. Weiner stated that what the students really learn from the project is that we create a tremendous amount of solid waste in our households, schools and businesses. “This waste must be handled. We have studied about all the different methods of disposal; sanitary landfills, incineration, ocean dumping and recycling. It is important that the students connect this with the fact that only a small percent of our garbage will decompose in a timely manner.” Stay tuned for the results of this experiment in May. It’s possible we will all learn something! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=367 Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT This is a reminder that Middle School and High School Students will be dismissed at 10:49 a.m. today. Elementary students will be dismissed at 11:30. Regular transportation will be provided. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=360 Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT Game Cancellations and Changes for Friday, October 16th Due to Rain (this page will be updated as cancellations are reported): JV Girls Soccer 10-16 cancelled MS Boys Soccer 10-16 cancelled MS Football Game on Saturday, October 17th at 9:30 a.m. has been moved to Centre Island. JV Girls Tennis 10-16 is moved to Manhasset HS Varsity Field Hockey 10-16 cancelled MS Cross Country Meet 10-16 cancelled http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=365 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School freshman Bairre Reilly was named Newsday's "Player of the Week " for her exceptional performance playing field hockey against Great Neck North High School. Click here to viewthe Newsday article. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=364 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley Middle School seventh-grader Paige Gugerty is the winner of the 2009 State Archives Student Research Award competition. The competition is sponsored by The State Education Department. Seventh-grader Sarah Miller received Honorable Mention in the competition, also an outstanding achievement. Paige’s entry on the significance of the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Office Building impressed the judges with its details and relevance to New York as Theodore Roosevelt is a native son of the state. The research project, which culminated in a Power Point Presentation, included interviews with high ranking government officials such as Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi and Nassau County Commissioner of Public Works Ray Ribeiro. Both girls submitted their entries with the assistance of their teacher, Barbara LaBella. Sarah’s entry was on The Waterfront Center. She will receive a Certificate of Merit from the State Education Department. Paige is invited to attend a luncheon with her teacher and family at the Cultural Education Center in Albany. She will be awarded a cash prize and certificate at the luncheon. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=357 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Spectrum, Locust Valley High School’s student newspaper, has been awarded the Gold Medal from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association for the second year in a row. This year, The Spectrum’s score was even higher than last year, showing an improvement in the overall quality of the newspaper. Each edition of the paper from the 2008-2009 school year was used in the judging and several areas were critiqued including the quality of the stories, writing, photography, design, and typography. "The Columbia Scholastic Press Association sets the standard for high school publications nationwide,” said Coleen Comerford, The Spectrum’s Advisor. “That we have been recognized with a gold medal from this organization shows that our newspaper ranks among the best high school newspapers in the country.” http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=358 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School is proud to announce that thefollowing nine students are Commended National Merit Honorees: Corrine Hastings, Eric Padilla, Eerik Helmik, Casey Hochberg, Alessandra Sorrento, Christina Sorrento, Alexandra Spear, Daniel Ventresca, and Cecilia Wachter. The students earned this outstanding national recognition from The College Board for their exceptional achievements on the Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Tests (PSAT). Based on student achievement and sponsored annually by The College Board, the ability to earn this designation is an honor which is afforded to only 5% of the more than 1,500,000 students from across our country that complete the PSATs as juniors every year. In addition, the College Board shares the names of students who earn these distinctions with colleges and universities. Additionally, two of these nine students, Corrine Hastings and Eric Padilla, went on to achieve even greater honors as National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists. This is the first time in recent memory that Locust Valley High School students have qualified for this exceptional designation, one which is only given to 1% of the 1,500,000 students who take the PSATs every year. Advancing to Semi-Finalist status will afford these extremely academically talented students the opportunity to qualify for more than $36,000,000.00 in National Merit Scholarships which will be offered next spring. Congratulations to all nine students on this outstanding accomplishment! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=359 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT Our Varsity Football team earned their third win on Saturday, defeating Clarke by a score of 35-6; Marc Mauro led the attack with 226 rushing yards including 4 touchdowns, two of which were for more than 50 yards each; Robert Alfano added with a touchdown of his own giving the Falcons a 14-0 lead early in the first quarter; Alfano was the defensive leader with 10 tackles including 1 sack; Mauro also helped on defense by intercepting a pass and adding 6 tackles of his own; Robert Fink also had two runningback sacks and one quarterback sack totaling a loss of 16 yards; The offensive line allowed for Locust Valley to rush for more than 300 yards for the second straight game; Frank Vezza converted five out of five extra point kick attempts; The Falcons are 3-1. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=351 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Varsity Cross Country team continued the annual tradition of competing in Northport's Great Cow Harbor 10K Race. This race is not about the competition, but the spirit and camaraderie of the annual event. Great job team! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=352 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT Gearing up for Homecoming, students at the Middle School and High School celebrated Spirit Week, wearing green, painting their faces, and holding a Pep Rally at each school. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=353 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT Homecoming 2009 is this Saturday, October 3rd. We are celebrationg Locust Valley Central School District's 50th Anniversary! The entire community is encouraged to attend, especially our alumni. Theparade of floats made by students will begin at 10:15 a.m. at Centre Island Beach and will go through Bayville and Locust Valley to the High School. A delicious barbecue is generously being sponsored by Falcon Pride and will begin at 11:30 a.m. The Varsity Football gameagainst theClarke High School Ramsstarts at1:30 p.m. Please join in the fun, wear green and show your Locust Valley spirit!! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=349 Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Girls Varsity Volleyball team defeated Valley Stream North 3-1 on Sept. 23rd. Bree Yonkers had three kills, three digs, and one ace, Mary Leah Milnes had two blocks and three digs, and Nicole Heney added two kills and two blocks to lead Locust Valley to a 26-24, 25-12, 20-25, 25-17 win over Valley Stream North. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=335 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT PSAT Accommodations … The Steps Students needing accommodations for the PSAT were assisted in taking those steps last year, in concert with annual reviews, in order to meet the deadline to apply for accommodations that occurred during August. If your child has received a letter from the College Board approving the accommodation, please contact Lori Saland, the District’s Assistant Director of Individual Needs, at 277-5170 so that Locust Valley High School is aware that the student has been approved. Additionally, all students need to register for the PSAT in the Guidance Office. A letter was sent out early in September regarding PSAT registration to homes of all 10th and 11th graders. The exam fee is $20. and students are asked to sign up now through October 7th. If you have been denied PSAT accommodations or have not received a response to your application for accommodations, please call Lori Saland’s office (277-5170) immediately so she can begin the appeal process on your behalf or check the status of your application. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=326 Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT All 10th and 11th graders are reminded to register for the PSAT by October 7th in the High School Guidance Office.The exam fee is $20 and the exam will be administered at the High School on October 17th. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=328 Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT Marc Mauro rushed for a career high of 176 yards and three touchdowns to lead the Falcons to a 34-14 victory over Carle Place. Chad Cloninger connected with Kevin Carrigan for a 27 yard touchdown pass to give Locust Valley a 14-0 lead in the first quarter. The defense, which allowed only 52 total yards, was led by Philip Merenda who had two quarterback sacks. The Falcons are now 2-1 on the season. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=350 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School junior Zoe Vinegar has been accepted as an alternate for the 2009 Piano Showcase at the NYSSMA All-State Conference in Rochester, NY. This is a new category that the NYSSMA association began two years ago. Zoe received a score of 100 on her piano NYSSMA evaluation last spring. Congratulations on a wonderful accomplishment! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=325 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Varsity Football team defeated Mineola High School 28-7 in the first home game of the season. Go Falcons! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=311 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT News12 featured a segment on Locust Valley High School/Middle School's new classical music that replaced the bell system to signify the change of classes. The segment aired on Tuesday September 15th. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=312 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT Electricity has been restored to Locust Valley High School/Middle School and Locust Valley Elementary Schools. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=307 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT On Monday September 14, 2009 at 3:30 p.m. construction to replace windows at the High School/Middle Schools will take place. Work will take place on the exterior of the building and includes asbestos abatement of window caulking which is not airborne. Notices will be posted on the doors to the building, and corridors adjacent to the abatement will not be accessible. We anticipate that that we will adhere to the time schedule of 3:30 p.m. until 11 p.m. on the following days and dates: Monday, Sept. 14; Tuesday, Sept. 15; Wednesday Sept. 16; Thursday Sept. 17, Friday, Sept. 18; Monday, Sept. 21; Tuesday, Sept. 22; Wednesday, Sept. 23; and Friday, Sept. 25. There will be no work performed on the evenings of September 17 and 24 out of respect to the Middle School and High School Open Houses, which will take place on those evenings. We regret any inconvenience. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=309 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT Beginning Thursday, September 17, there willbe a morning PSAT review session from 6:40-7:40 a.m. in room 235. This session will continue Monday -Thursday mornings from 6:40-7:40 p.m. in room 235. Students mustregister for the PSAT review sessions in the High School main office. Locust Valley High School is offering a free PSAT review course which began on Monday Sept. 14th. All sophomores and juniors are encouraged to take the PSAT/NMSQT examination which will be administered on October 17 in the High School cafeteria. This exam provides valuable practice for the SAT. More importantly, it will help students identify strengths as well as the areas that need improvement prior to the SAT. Additionally, students who perform well on the PSAT/NMSQT may earn commendations and National Merit Scholarships amounting to thousands of dollars. In addition, the College Board shares the names of students who earn these distinctions with colleges and universities. These scholarships are based solely on performance on the PSAT. Last year, a record number of Locust Valley High School students qualified for these national honors. This course and the study materials are provided at no cost. Parents are asked to encourage students to take advantage of this important opportunity and to have students register in the Main Office at the High School as soon as possible. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=310 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT Two outstanding seniors in the high school music department, Eric Padilla and Michael Schramm, have been accepted as alternates for the NYSSMA All-State Conference. Both Eric, who is a vocalist and Michael, who plays the alto saxophone received a score of 100 on their NYSSMA evaluations last spring. Congratulations to both on this outstanding achievement! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=302 Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT The class of 2013 officially started their high school years on September 8, 2009. The first day was a smooth transition for all thanks to a successful ninth grade orientation held prior to the start of school. Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors all got off to a great start as well and everyone is looking forward to a wonderful school year. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=295 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT Students at Locust Valley Middle School didn't waste any time getting into their routine. From science andsocial studiesto art and wood working, classes were in full swing. In this photo, a science class uses team work to answer questions as they get to know their classmates. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=300 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT Locust ValleyIntermediate School and Anne MacArthur Primary School students arrived to welcoming faces for the start of the 2009-2010 school year. Returning students as well as new ones settled in to their routines with ease. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=301 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT The 2009-2010 school year got off to a great start at all of our schools. These students at Bayville Primary School had a skip in their step as they headed home from their first day of school. We are looking forward to a successful school year for all of the students in the district. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=294 Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Calendar on the homepage of the website is not displaying correctly and therefore we ask that you do not rely on it until further notice. Please go the main calendar on the website for accurate information. Thank you for your patience while we correct this issue, which should be shortly. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=293 Mon, 07 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT The High School parking lot is under some reconstruction. When students, parents, and staff arrive on the first day of school, there will be personnel directing traffic. There is a new traffic pattern that was designed to improve the safe flow of traffic. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us to make the start of the school year a success for everyone! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=292 Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT Dear Parents and Guardians, We are pleased to inform you that a new telephone system has been installed throughout our District and in all of our school buildings. The new phone system and new phone numbers were activated on August 15th. This system brings us a state of the art infrastructure with many new features. Most importantly, this new phone system will make communication easier and more effective and efficient. It will also make telephone service more predictable within and between our schools, as well as between parents and faculty. The new system will enable all of our teachers and administrators to have access to voicemail. Parents who want to leave messages for faculty members will be able to call any of our schools, select the appropriate faculty member’s name from a menu and leave a voicemail message. Parents will also be able to continue to send email messages through our website, www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us. Staff members will be notified through email that they have received new voicemail messages. Please note that a directory is available in our 2009-2010 school calendar as well as on our website. In the event that you experience any difficulties with the new phone system, please feel free to notify the Principal of your child’s school. Sincerely, Anna F. Hunderfund, Ed.D Superintendent of Schools http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=291 Thu, 27 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School seniors are featured in Newsday. Click here to read the article. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=256 Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT Newsweek just released its list of top high schools in the nation and for the second year in a row, Locust Valley has earned national distinction by being ranked in the top one percent of schools in our nation! LVHS has moved up in the rankings by 24 spots from last year, a significant improvement, with only 206 high schools nationwide faring better. The Newsweek ranking includes the top 1,500 US High Schools ranked from the 27,000 schools across the nation. Click here for the Newsweek article. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=257 Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT The growth of Locust Valley's Varsity Girls Golf team is mentioned in a Newsday article. To read the article click here. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=258 Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT Our spring teams had a successful season with many wins and lots of hard work! Here are some of the spring sports accomplishments: Scholar Athlete Teams: Varsity Boys Track Varsity Girls Track Varsity Boys Lacrosse Varsity Girls Lacrosse Varsity Boys Baseball Varsity Girls Softball Varsity Girls Golf Varsity Boys Tennis Varsity Boys Tennis team became co-conference 3A champions. Varsity Girls Softball competed in the Nassau county Class B Championships Varsity Boys Baseball team and Varsity Boys Lacrosse team made the Nassau County play-offs. Varsity Girls Track team members Hollace Francy and Saeunn Petursdottir qualified for the New York State Track Championships. Congratulations to all! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=259 Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT It is no surprise to her teachers, guidance counselors, or anyone else who knows her, that Catherine Hoar is the Salutatorian of the Class of 2009. It is impressive enough that Catherine graduated with an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, and, in her junior year earned a 98 or higher in each of her seven challenging IB classes, but she also scored a perfect 100 on five New York State Regents Exams. Catherine’s teachers say she is one of the strongest students they’ve ever encountered in their teaching careers. Catherine’s reputation in the high school is that of being extremely kind, genuine, and respectful. Her inquisitive nature in and out of the classroom allows her to make new discoveries and find interesting stories to tell, which made her perfect as the Editor of the award-winning school newspaper, The Spectrum. Being a natural leader made her not only a great Editor, but also a terrific co-Captain for the Locust Valley Field Hockey team. Catherine is team-oriented and believes each person has a unique character and the potential to grow, which directly impacts the collective results of the group. This team approach helped her off the field as well where she has led her friends and classmates in community service work. Since ninth grade Catherine has been an active member of the Interact Club, through which she has volunteered for Ronald McDonald House and The Boys and Girls Club; she also fundraises for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life and Breast Cancer Walks. Catherine will attend Tufts University in the fall. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=260 Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT Lauren DeMaria, Locust Valley High School’s Class of 2009 Valedictorian, serves as an example of excellence and dedication, striving for perfection in all that she does. In spite of a two plus hour commute to and from the city, and a grueling three-plus-hour dance workout, she still mustered up the energy to complete her schoolwork with impeccable attention to detail. She is the recipient of the Outstanding Achievement Award in Chemistry, Mathematics, AP World History, English and Italian. Moreover, she has been inducted into the National Honor Society and Foreign Language Honor Society. She graduated with a Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation and Honors, a Diploma with Distinction, and an IB Diploma. She has studied dance year-round in some of the premier dance programs in New York City including the Joffrey Ballet School and the School at Steps Ballet Program. Lauren has performed in many venues and has had opportunities that many dancers wait most of their professional careers to experience, such as principal dancer roles, pas de deuxs with other professionals, and solos. She has participated in various summer intensive programs, among them the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Connecticut, and was invited to train at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow, Russia. Lauren’s demanding dance schedule did not leave her with much time for school activities, yet she would somehow always find it. She took part in Mathletes, the AMC Mathematics Competition and Relay for Life, a school wide fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. She even performed a lyrical solo at the Relay for Life Survivor Dinner and Talent Show. Lauren is also a member of SKIP (Sick Kids Need Involved People), and has volunteered her time to mentor an autistic child. Lauren will continue her studies at Columbia University. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=261 Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT Locust Valley High School graduated 202 seniors at a beautiful ceremony which celebrated the accomplishments of this fabulous group of students. Musical performances by the high school band and chorus added to the enjoyment of the day. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=262 Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT Registration for the Summer Recreation Program will be held on Fridays June 5, 12, and 19th at Bayville Primary School and Ann MacArthur Primary School from 3:30 to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday, June 20th at LVHS, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. For registration forms Click Here. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=232 Sun, 14 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT Students in Locust Valley and Bayville Elementary Schools know how to stop bullying, and the posters they created to spread the word won them recognition from Child Abuse Prevention Services (CAPS). Three students were winners in the CAPS 2009-2010 Bully Prevention Poster/Poem Contest. Additionally, a fourth student received honorable mention. The posters were selected from among 1500 entries that were submitted by students from 57 schools throughout Long Island. The fourth graders entered the contest in conjunction with their bully prevention program. Congratulations to all the participants! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=223 Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT Three Locust Valley High School students won prizes in an International art contest entitled, “What About Peace? 2009.” Kate Schramm, a Locust Valley High School sophomore won first place in the painting portion of the competition, which included a prize of $300. Kate created the painting in Linda DeFeo’s Studio Art Class. Her freshman classmate, Zenia Morici, won third place and a $50 prize in the contest for her painting representing peace. Christina Scheblein, a sophomore, received an honorable mention, also in the painting category. Mrs. DeFeo said her whole class entered the contest. “I thought it would be a great project for them,” she explained. “I was thrilled when I found out we had three winners.” The contest encourages young people between the ages of 14 and 20 to express their feelings about peace through art. The Locust Valley students competed against artists from more than 30 states and as far away as Australia. In a letter to Mrs. DeFeo, the administrator and founder of What About Peace congratulated the Locust Valley winners. “Winning in this competitive arena is a great accomplishment and we honor you and your winners,” wrote Barbara Briggs-Letson. What About Peace is an organization that invites youth to think outside the box and offer new ideas for peace. Kate Schramm’s art can be viewed by clicking here; Zenia Morici’s by clicking here; and Christina Scheblein’s at: by clicking here. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=224 Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Math Research students of Locust Valley received several medals in the final round of the Math Fair held at Hofstra University. Mentored by their math research teacher Kristen San Filippo, these students worked hard and the results prove it. Congratulations to the following students from Locust Valley Middle School and High School for their successes: Sean Rudowsky, Gold Medal Luka Martinovic, Silver Medal Melissa Bales, Silver Medal Alexandra Sharp, Silver Medal Anna Stacy, Silver Medal Steffi Bousleiman, Bronze Medal Christiana Falino, Bronze Medal Joseph Palumbo, Bronze Medal Justin Wei, Bronze Medal http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=225 Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT Newsweek just released its list of top high schools in the nation and for the second year in a row, Locust Valley has earned national distinction by being ranked in the top one percent of schools in our nation! LVHS has moved up in the rankings by 24 spots from last year, a significant improvement, with only 206 high schools nationwide faring better. The Newsweek ranking includes the top 1,500 US High Schools ranked from the 27,000 schools across the nation. Click here for the Newsweek article. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=220 Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT The fifth-grade class at Bayville Intermediate School brought tears to the eyes of family and friends as they marked a major milestone in their lives – moving up from elementary school. From the short film the graduates created for the ceremony to the songs they performed, the graduation was emotional for all. Congratulations to the entire class and best of luck in Locust Valley Middle School! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=230 Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT The Board of Education will hold a meeting on Tuesday, June 16th at 7:30 p.m. The meeting will begin with student recognition in the HS auditorium, followed by a regular meeting in the mini-theater. Click here for more information. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=221 Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT Fifth graders at Locust Valley Intermediate School ended an era as they graduated from elementary school in a ceremony that celebrated their individuality. With songs and, of course, the traditional tolling of the bell, graduates and their families were all smiles as they remembered their years at Ann MacArthur Primary and Locust Valley Intermediate. Congratulations to Locust Valley Middle School’s newest students! http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=255 Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT There were smiles and tears of joy as 157 students graduated from Locust Valley Middle School and celebrated the start of high school. Wearing Locust Valley green caps and gowns, the eighth graders accepted diplomas and performed choral selections during the Moving-Up Ceremony. http://www.lvcsd.k12.ny.us/News/Story.aspx?id=229 Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT