Press Releases

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Mosquito Sample in Suffolk County Tests Positive for West Nile Virus

Hauppauge, NY – Suffolk County Health Services (SCDHS) Commissioner James L. Tomarken, MD, MSW, MPH, MBA, FRCPC, FACP, announced that a mosquito sample has tested positive for West Nile virus, as confirmed by the New York State Department of Health. The sample was collected from a pool of Culex restuans-pipiens found in West Babylon by the SCDHS Department of Environmental Quality on June 23.

The Suffolk County Department of Public Works has already conducted larval control in the area.

West Nile virus, first detected in Suffolk County in 1999 and again each year thereafter through 2010, is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. No humans, horses or birds have tested positive for West Nile Virus in Suffolk this year.

“The confirmation of West Nile virus in a mosquito pool indicates that the virus is actively circulating within the mosquito population,” said Dr. Tomarken. “While there is no cause for alarm, we urge residents to cooperate with us in our efforts to contain the spread of the virus, which can be debilitating to humans.”

To reduce the mosquito population around homes, residents should try to eliminate stagnant water:
• Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or similar water-
holding containers.
• Remove all discarded tires on the property.
• Make sure roof gutters drain properly, and clean clogged gutters.
• Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.
• Change the water in birdbaths.
• Clean vegetation and debris from the edges of ponds and keep shrubs
and grass trimmed.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs.
• Drain water from pool covers.

According to Dr. Tomarken, most people infected with West Nile virus will experience mild or no symptoms, but some can develop severe symptoms including high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. The symptoms may last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent. Individuals, especially those 50 years of age or older, or those with compromised immune systems, who are most at risk, are urged to take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

To avoid mosquito bites, residents are advised to:
• Minimize outdoor activities between dusk and dawn.
• Wear shoes and socks, long pants and long-sleeved shirts when outdoors for long periods of time, or when mosquitoes are more active.
• Use mosquito repellent when outdoors, following label directions carefully.
• Make sure all windows and doors have screens, and that all screens are in good repair.

Dead birds found on area properties may indicate the presence of West Nile virus in the area. To report dead birds, call the West Nile virus hotline in Suffolk County at 631-787-2200 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
To report mosquito problems or stagnant pools of water, call the Department of Public Works’ Vector Control Division at 631-852-4270.
For medical questions related to West Nile virus, call 631-853-3055.
For further information on West Nile virus, visit the Department of Health Services’ website at www.suffolkcountyny.gov/health.

Moving Up to the Grade School

Marveling at how fast the three years have gone by, Babylon Elementary School Principal Dana Spincola congratulated this year’s 126 second-grade students and wished them the best of luck as they moved up to third grade during the building’s graduation ceremony in late June.

Before becoming official Babylon Memorial Grade School students, the young graduates marched into the elementary school’s gymnasium and proudly shook Ms. Spincola’s hand as parents and family members cheered from their seats. Joining together, and under the direction of music teacher Colleen Winther, the students then performed several musical selections, including an emotional song about growing

Sixth-Grade Students Are Excited for the Future on Moving-Up Day

Emotions prevailed as the 2010 graduating sixth-grade students of Babylon Memorial Grade School entered the High School auditorium. District administrators, faculty, staff, guests, and most importantly the graduating students, eagerly anticipated the wise words they would hear from the various speakers.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ellen Best-Laimit focused on the importance of being visible, in a kind and respectful way. She exemplified what she wishes each and every student would learn by reading the book Possum Magic, by Mem Fox, who is a teacher herself. Dr. Best-Laimit explained that no one wants to be invisible like the book’s main character, Hush. “You can’t be invisible by surrounding yourself with people who are respectful and kind,” Dr. Best-Laimit said.

The graduates then listened attentively to four of their fellow peers as they each reflected on the memories they have made over the past years. The students spoke of influential teachers that have guided and supported them, as well as field trips that provided experiences they will never forget.

Principal Eric Freidman also gave the graduating students words of wisdom. He focused on the district’s character development program, and explained that it helps students achieve their ambitions and goals. He also encouraged parents and family members to communicate with the graduating students as they progress through the school years, and to set a good example for them each and every day. Mr. Freidman concluded his speech with a final take-away point: “Thoughts turn into words, words turn into actions, actions turn into character, and character is everything.”

In addition to hearing the inspirational words from fellow peers and administrators, the students were presented with various citations, including the Presidential Awards for Academic Excellence/Achievement Awards, Presidential Physical Fitness Awards, and other commemorative honors. The students then crossed the stage one by one to receive their diplomas, and left the ceremony inspired and enthusiastic to begin the next chapter of their academic careers in the fall.

Hats Off to the Class of 2010

Babylon High School’s Coach Williams Memorial Field was blanketed with proud and cheering parents, friends, and educators as the Class of 2010 marched to sounds of “Pomp and Circumstance” and the school’s commencement exercises began. Following members of the American Celtic Pipe Band, a U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard, and members of the high school administration and teaching staff, the students took their seats on the field.

The ceremony began with a reflective speech and pledge to the flag by Senior Class President Jamie Mott, and words of welcome by Junior High School Principal Steven Goldberg. The students and guests listened attentively as Student Council President Michael Augello spoke about overcoming obstacles, and to words of encouragement from Salutatorian Kathryn Pisciotta and Valedictorian Salvatore Albanese, and a farewell address from faculty member Dennis Lally.

“Today is a culmination of your journey through Babylon…our hope, as we send you off, is that you work hard, enjoy life, and always follow the golden rule,” stated High School Principal Robert Visbal. Sharing what she called her “Five Rules For Life,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ellen Best-Laimit encouraged the students to always check their sources, work collaboratively, to remember that winning isn’t everything but attitude is, to never forget their manners, and that ‘me’ should never be the first word in their sentence. “The world is truly at your feet…you are deserving of the best and brightest. I wish wonderful things for your tomorrows and that you have the gift to spend them wisely,” Dr. Best-Laimit concluded.

After having demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence and having overcome every obstacle and challenge placed before them, one-by-one the students, many of who will now move on to pursue a degree in higher education from some of the top secondary schools in the nation, were called to the dais to receive their diploma. Graduating students also joined their fellow musicians to perform several selections with the school’s chorus and band.

At the end of the ceremony, graduation caps flew high into the air as flocks of white doves were released, symbolizing a hopeful future.

Stars and Stripes Honored at BES

Despite the constant threat of rain, this year’s Flag Day celebration at Babylon Elementary School in the Babylon School District was filled with bright dreams and warm hearts. The program began with a welcome address from Principal Dana Spincola, who spoke with the students and attendees about the history of the flag and the importance of the day.

“Flag Day not only represents our flag’s birthday, it represents a time for us to say thank you to the men and women who have helped it fly high over the years,” stated Ms. Spincola. Following these remarks, retired U.S. Army Reserve Chaplain Col. Francis Midura spoke to the group about flag etiquette, including the proper way to address the flag and maintain a flag.

With the help of several visiting veterans, the school’s flag was raised and this year’s student essay winners began reciting their award-winning pieces. Additionally, the students performed a variety of patriotic songs, including the National Anthem and a piece about the 50 states, second graders from Beth Dieterich’s class recited a class poem, the first-grade students in Christina Comeau and Patricia Hauk’s class displayed a handprint flag display they had created, and the members of the Babylon Memorial Grade School Marching Band performed.

Honoring Seniors During Award Ceremony

Babylon High School’s senior class gathered together for one of the last times in mid-June to celebrate their accomplishments and participate in this year’s Senior Awards Ceremony. Marveling at the fact that their journey as Babylon students would soon be ending, the students watched with smiles as a video montage of pictures from throughout the years was displayed on a screen in the auditorium. After receiving praise from Principal Robert Visbal and Counseling Center Director Tracy Lesnick, the students commended their fellow peers with a round of applause.

During the ceremony, many students were individually recognized and presented with generous local scholarships from community residents and businesses, as well as awards from the building’s different educational departments. This year more than $69,620 in scholarships were awarded to the Class of 2010.

Reflecting on the Meaning of Beauty Babylon Students Excel in PTA Reflections Contest

Students throughout the Babylon School District participated in the PTA Reflections Contest earlier this year by creating and submitting works of art in six areas: dance choreography, film production, literature, musical composition, photography, and the visual arts. As a result of their pieces, five Babylon students advanced from the local level of the competition to receive praise at the county level; one student was named the winner at the State level.

“This was the first year we can remember having five Babylon School District students advance to the state level of the competition,” stated Babylon PTSA President Alena Berenblatt. “We are extremely proud of the students who participated in the contest and those that advanced in the competition.”

Congratulations to the following students:

Avery Bzdyk – New York State Reflections Award of Merit Winner in Music Composition

Emma Schubart – New York State Reflections Award of Merit Winner in Music Composition

Matthew Minicozzi – New York State Reflections Winner in Music Composition

Meghan Flaugher – Suffolk County Reflections Winner in the Category of Literature

Patricia McGuinness – Suffolk County Reflections Winner in the Category of Literature

Memorial Day Celebration in Babylon

Looking to pay tribute to those who have served the nation, students and staff members at Babylon Memorial Grade School in the Babylon School District coordinated a Memorial Day program just before breaking for the holiday weekend. The student body blanketed the front lawn of the school and listened to speeches and poems recited by the school’s two student council organizations.

“All the books we read and writing we do….doesn’t mean much unless we translate those words and thoughts into action. Any time you see a veteran, I encourage you to give them thanks; thanks for the service they have given to our country,” stated Eric Freidman.

In addition to learning about the history behind this national holiday, during the celebration the students enjoyed listening to the symphonic band woodwinds perform “America” and band teacher Don Meir play an emotional rendition of “Taps,” as the building’s flag was raised to half-mast and several students placed patriotic wreaths near the flagpole.

Seniors Win Local Scholarship

Babylon High School seniors (l-r) Emily Atchison and Maggie Melito have received Discretionary Awards, each in the sum of $2,500, from the Mayor E. Donald Conroy Scholarship Fund. This fall, Maggie will be attending SUNY New Paltz to major in communications and Emily will be attending Stony Brook University to major in biology. The two students are pictured here with school counselor Suzanne Murphy, Principal Robert Visbal, Mayor Conroy’s brother John Conroy, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ellen Best-Laimit, and Counseling Center Director Tracy Lesnick.

HS Shutterbug Wins Local Contest

Babylon High School student Liz McLean has been selected as a winner of Astoria Federal’s 2010 Teen Photo Contest for her entry into their “From the Neighborhood” contest. As a result, she will receive a $250 prize and, according to contest rules, the school will also receive a $100 grant. Liz is pictured here with art teacher Cheryl Schweider and Fine Arts Director Angela Turk.

Preparing for the Next Play

Babylon Senior Signs Letter of Intent with East Stroudsburg University

After throwing strikes as a Panther, Babylon High School Girls Varsity Softball senior Amanda McKay will continue her athletic journey in the fall at East Stroudsburg University in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. In late May, and just days before her team (which was seeded first) competed in playoffs, Amanda signed a National Letter of Intent to play softball at the institution of higher education.

Amanda has played on Babylon’s Varsity Softball team since the eighth grade and on the Long Island Chargers travel team since ninth grade. Additionally, she has been named to the honor roll all four years of high school. Amanda aspires to major in special education while attending East Stroudsburg.

Beyond Beakers and Test Tubes

JHS Science Club Presents at Science Symposium

Babylon Junior High School’s newly formed Science Club has encountered many rewarding experiences during their inaugural year.
Recently, club members attended the First Annual Protein Symposium at Rockefeller University, during which they had the privilege of showcasing their work to graduate students and research scientists from Rockefeller University, Stony Brook University, and Milwaukee School of Engineering. During the event, the students presented a poster depicting their work on the protein Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) toxin, an insecticidal substance, and a description of how its function is determined by its structure.  

The students rose to the occasion, answering tough questions from professors, as well as asking insightful questions that truly illustrated how far they have come in such a short period of time. Their work was well-received by the audience, who consistently remarked how they couldn't believe they were junior high students, due to the depth of their understanding and the quality of their work. 

Babylon’s team was the only junior high school group presenting at the conference. The remainder of the groups who presented were comprised of high school students from private city schools, as well as undergraduate biology students. 


Podcasting to Encourage Peers to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle

Babylon Junior-Senior High School students in Lisa Consolo’s Transitioning to Life class went “green” this Earth Day and created a campaign aimed at encouraging their peers to reduce, reuse, and recycle.

Using the building’s Apple computer lab, and with the help of Ms. Consolo and the district’s Coordinator of Assessment Data, Learning, and Technology Carole Polney-Marinello, the class used GarageBand software to create informational podcasts.

Included in the students’ testimonials were reasons why it is important to take care of the Earth and several tips to implement in order to reduce, reuse, and recycle daily.
“This was the first time our class created podcasts but I have to say the finished projects came out great,” stated Ms. Consolo. “This assignment included a variety of disciplines and allowed the students to use skills they had not yet demonstrated.”
The students proudly presented their completed projects to Babylon Memorial Grade School students in Beth Marinelli’s class.

As a special keepsake from the project, each student will receive a copy of their podcast on CD.

Making Cards for Mother’s Day

Babylon Students Create More Than 120 Cards for Local Nursing Home

In hopes of brightening their day, Babylon Elementary kindergartners in Barbara Krucher’s class and third-graders from Susan Scalfani’s class at Memorial Grade School (who have been paired as classroom buddies this year) recently worked together to create Mother’s Day cards for a nearby nursing home. After reading the book “Is Your Mama a Llama?” and discussing the importance of the project, the students worked with their buddies to craft more than 120 cards for the nursing home. The finished cards were delivered to the nursing home’s female residents in time for the holiday. The schools’ buddies program, which has been in place for the past several years, is similar to a mentoring program, as it pairs classes from each building together.

Celebrating Cultures at a Fiesta!

Babylon Memorial Grade School fifth and sixth-grade students enjoyed a tasty Taco Fiesta Luncheon as a conclusion and review of a food lesson in their Spanish classes. Each student brought in an ingredient and enjoyed fixing his or her own tacos while music teacher Paul Grisafi and FLES teacher Lilly Salcedo performed a musical Spanish show. More than 280 students participated in the festival. All of the leftover supplies were donated to PRONTO food pantry in Bay Shore

A Midsummer Night’s Dream at BHS

For the first time in history, a full-length version of one of William Shakespeare’s literary masterpieces came to life on the stage of Babylon Junior-Senior High School as the building’s talented student-actors performed A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The Shakespearian comedy and one of his most popular works for the stage, was performed by the student-cast as their spring production and debuted for three evening and one afternoon shows, one of which was a free performance for the community’s senior citizens.

In addition to the free showing of the play, the school’s Leo Club once again invited the community’s senior citizens to enjoy a tasty dinner before a performance.

Stuff the Magic Dragon

Students Use Recycled Material to Create Art for Earth Day

In celebration of this year’s Earth Day, students at Babylon Elementary School worked in collaboration with their peers to create an artistic dragon sculpture for their courtyard made primarily of recycled material.

After collecting reusable materials from their houses, the students worked with art teacher Patricia Stork, visiting artist Frank Marangiello, and several student volunteers from Babylon Junior-Senior High School to create the sculpture. Putting a twist on the famous tale of Puff the Magic Dragon, the students called their creation Stuff (as it was made of various materials) the Magic Dragon.

The dragon’s framework was constructed using garbage cans, and the outer skin was comprised of the donated plastic materials.
The students are hoping that the creation will help others to see that artwork can be created using all kinds of materials.

Senior Wins National Merit Scholarship

The Babylon School District is proud to congratulate Babylon High School senior and Class of 2010 valedictorian Salvatore Albanese for being selected as the winner of a corporate-sponsored Merit Scholarship award – the National Merit Estee and Joseph Lauder Scholarship.

Salvatore entered the National Merit Scholarship as a result of his score on the 2008 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which served as an initial screen of program entrants. Prior to this announcement, Salvatore was named a National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist and subsequently a Finalist.

Following graduation this June, Salvatore aspires to major in math and physics in college.

Approximately 270 companies and businesses finance National Merit Scholarships for Finalists who meet their specific criteria.

Having Fun with Fairytales

As a conclusion to a reader’s theater literacy lesson, the students in Leah Weissinger’s first-grade class at Babylon Elementary School made three famous stories come to life on the school’s stage. The students entertained the audience with the tales of The Tortoise and the Hare, The Fisherman and His Wife, and The Cat in the Hat.

Reader’s theater performances are dramatic presentations of books, through scripted form, and are aimed at helping students focus on fluency development, motivate reluctant readers, and strengthen comprehension.

As part of their fairytale unit, the first graders read the three stories, painted scenery, learned lines and choreography, and dressed in costumes, before dazzling the audience with the final product. Special thanks to art teacher Patricia Stork, music teacher Colleen Winther, librarian Lisa Ann Lindeman, and library aide Jeanie Parker.

Super Student-Scientists

Babylon Memorial Grade School students are rising stars in the area of science, as was recently demonstrated during the building’s 2010 science fair competition. This year’s fair drew submissions from all fifth and sixth-grade students, as well as many of the building’s third and fourth graders. Student projects were focused on an area of interest to them, including measuring greenhouse gases, acid rain, what type of surface has the most friction, and which salt melts ice the fastest.

Students’ competed projects were judged by a panel of teachers and members of Babylon High School’s Science Honor Society. The top project from each grade level will be presented their studies during Brookhaven National Lab’s Elementary Science Fair in early May.

Congratulations to this year’s first-place winners:

Dylan Pane “The Strength of Electromagnets” (Third Grade)
Madeline Peplinski “Radiant Radishes” (Fourth Grade)
Matthew Fama “Decay Away” (Fifth-Grade)
Adam Gumbardo “Does the Angle of a Solar Panel Affect the Amount of Electricity” (Sixth Grade)

Learning About the Community

Babylon Memorial Grade School students recently completed a unit of study on community locations and the Spanish language. After learning the Spanish words for places in town, including the fire department, bakery, bank, school, train station, and more, the students were asked to create a model of their town using anything from LEGOs to cardboard boxes. After creating their models, the students labeled the locations in Spanish and created descriptions of their favorite places in town. The finished models were displayed in the Grade School Lobby for all to see and enjoy.

DECA Students Rise to the Top at State Competition

Once again, Babylon High School’s DECA Club members demonstrated their outstanding talents and triumphed over the competition at the New York State DECA Career Competition, held in Rochester, NY this March. This year, 38 students from Babylon competed against more than 2,000 student finalists from across New York State, and took home some of the competition’s top prizes.

Congratulations to Babylon’s New York State Top Trophy Winners Andrea Menchini (1st place, Broadcast Advertising) and Neil Cusamano (3rd place, Broadcast Advertising). Additional commendation goes to the following award winners:

Christian Amelia – Quick Serve Restaurant Management
Karlee Brodmerkel – Public Service Visual Advertising
Claire Buser – Public Speaking Extemporaneous
Elliot Courtney – Public Speaking Extemporaneous
Neil Cusamano – Broadcast Advertising
MacKenzie Grant – Visual Advertising
Stephen Loudon – General Marketing
Andrea Menchini – Broadcast Advertising
Taylor Middleton – Apparel & Accessories Marketing
Jamie Mott – Visual Advertising
Noelle Rogers – Job Interview
Kerry Glenday – Principles of Marketing

More than 100 students at Babylon High School participate in DECA, which is one of the building’s largest clubs. During local and regional events, the students are able to take part in a variety of events, including public speaking, sports marketing, decision making, general marketing, finance, apparel and accessories, job interview, and more.

Music Masters

This March, 23 student-musicians from Babylon Junior-Senior High School and Babylon Memorial Grade School showcased their talents during the Suffolk County Music Educators’ Association (SCMEA) All-County Festival. These students were nominated for this honor by their teachers and selected by the SCMEA members for participation.

The festival was divided into three divisions; Division I was comprised of fifth- and sixth-grade students, while the Junior and Senior High School students performed during the Division II and III concerts.

Congratulations to these students on this outstanding achievement.

Pennies for Patients

To onlookers, the collection jars labeled with snack names set up in the hallways at Babylon Elementary School might have appeared out of place, but to the school’s students it symbolized their commitment to community service. This March, the students voted on their favorite circus snack (circus was t he theme of this year’s PARP program) by dropping their loose change in the collection jars as part of their participation in Pennies for Patients. Through the generosity of the school’s students, BES collected $670.57 for the organization, which benefits the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

BHS Helps Haiti

Babylon High School’s Senior High School Student Council, French Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) Club, SEA Interact, and the Drama Club joined together to participate in fundraising efforts for Haiti relief. The students coordinated a “Hearts for Haiti” fundraiser and took time during this year’s BHS Presents talent show to acknowledge the natural disaster. During the show, the audience listened to a song called “Share th e Light,” which was written by ninth grader Avery Bzdyk, and watched a beautiful PowerPoint presentation created by the Student Council. Through all of their efforts, the school collected a total of $1,113, which was donated to the American Red Cross.

In addition to the schoolwide efforts, Billy Barberich initiated a T-shirt drive to benefit the children in Haiti. The drive was held throughout the month of March and explaining why he felt it was an important endeavor Billy stated, “I was concerned about the people of Haiti and wanted to do something to help them as they try to rebuild.” The T-shirt drive was an overwhelming success, collecting hundreds of new and gently used shirts. Billy is pictured here with his school counselor, Stephen Vaccaro.

Celebrating Cultures During Foreign Language Week

The hallways at Babylon High School were filled with culture and creativity this March as the school worked to celebrate National Foreign Language Week in a variety of ways.

With the help of the school’s Foreign Language Club and the building’s teachers, students enjoyed an international menu corresponding to the cultures being celebrated, listened to the morning announcements presented bilingually each day, and enjoyed learning interesting facts about each culture and language.

Additionally, in their classes students continued their studies of the countries by learning to prepare different types of meals and pledging to be tolerant of others.
Lastly, students in Melody Wubbenhorst’s Spanish classes entered the Long Island Language Teachers (LILT) Annual Poster Contest, themed “Languages Connect Us.” Congratulations to the five BHS finalists, Emily Church, Carly Tribby, Carolyn Koch, Gabrielle Simone, and Madison Young, who have advanced in the competition.

Hope is Here to Stay

Messages of hope and perseverance in times of trouble were the messages behind a recent author visit at Babylon Elementary School. Patrice Domozych, an educator and author, visited the building during the school’s Parents as Reading Partners (PARP) program and spoke with the school’s students about her book “Hope is Here to Stay,” a true story about the dreams of Lauren Evelyn Loose (the author’s niece) to help others who are battling childhood cancer.

During the event, Ms. Domozych shared the inspiration for the illustrations, which were created by Splashes of Hope, and read a copy of the book aloud. Throughout the program, the author focused on what her motivation was for writing and the power that communication, inspiration, empowerment, sharing hope, and taking action have had on her work.

All proceeds from the sale of the book are donated to Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation to support its mission.

Meeting Authors, Inspiring Students

Babylon Memorial Grade School students gained insight into the journalism world when three local authors conducted in-school assemblies and more than 30 authors participated in an evening Author Illustrator Night.

During the school day programs, authors Yvonne Capitelli, Jack Bilello, and Selene Castrovilla spoke with the students about the writing process, how they selected the topics for their books, and answered any questions the students had about being an author. At the evening program, each author set up a display featuring his or her books and was available to speak with those in attendance and autograph copies of their books.

Top 10 in 2010

Babylon High School Announces Class of 2010’s Top 10 Students

After 13 years of dedication, hard work, and perseverance, ten students at Babylon High School in the Babylon School District were recently bestowed the honor of being named one of the top 10 students in the Class of 2010. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ellen Best-Laimit, Director of Counseling Tracy Lesnick, and High School Principal Robert Visbal congratulated each of the students on this accomplishment and wished them the best of luck on their college application process.

Congratulations to the Babylon High School Class of 2010 Top 10:

Salvatore Albanese, Valedictorian
Kathryn Pisciotta, Salutatorian
Benjamin Gumbardo, Third
Alyse Wexler, Fourth
Elizabeth Oman, Fifth
Claire Buser, Sixth
Ryan Berry, Seventh
Alexander Leitch, Eighth
Mackenzie Grant, Ninth
Noelle Rogers, Tenth

BGS Students Have Heart

The two Student Council organizations at Babylon Memorial Grade School, with the help of advisors Pat Murphy and Rita Bartenback, collected hundreds of nonfood items for several families in the school community during a campaign called the “Have a Heart Drive.” Through the generosity of the school’s families and students, many boxes were filled to the brim and delivered at the beginning of March

Marionettes Bring a Childhood Favorite to Life

Students at Babylon Elementary School in the Babylon School District sat at the edge of their seats as the National Marionette Theatre company brought the famous story of Hansel and Gretel to life and helped the students kick off this year’s PARP (Parents As Reading Partners) program.

The story of the two curious children, Hansel and Gretel, has captivated the imagination of audiences for many years, and the talented puppeteers recited the famous Grimm Brothers’ tale with the help of several exquisitely crafted marionettes, scrolling scenery, and the beautiful music of Engelbert Humperdinck.

After performing the tale, the puppeteers revealed the secrets behind creating the marionettes and how to operate each character.

Giving the Gift of Life

Babylon Senior High School eligible students volunteered to help give the gift of life by donating blood during the school’s recent blood drive, coordinated by school nurse Grace McHugh and the Long Island Blood Services. During the drive, students donated 55 pints of blood. Pictured here are several of the students who volunteered to donate.

Babylon Works to Rebuild Haiti

Students at Babylon Memorial Grade School and Babylon Elementary School have been working to raise funds for Haiti relief by demonstrating firsthand what it means to have compassion for others.

At Babylon Elementary School, students and families have been taking part in “Hearts for Haiti” to show their support for the victims. Students, families, and members of the school community purchased paper hearts for a dollar each, on which the donor wrote their family name. The decorated hearts have been drawing a great deal of attention as they have been put on display in the main lobby of the school. As a result of the building’s donations, more than $1,120 has been collected. This project is being coordinated by teachers Jennifer Brown, Mary Quinn, and Patricia Stork.

Babylon Memorial Grade School’s Hope for Haiti Committee has been working with the building’s students on a meaningful, interactive drive for the nation in need. The building’s students have solicited monetary sponsorships from their parents in exchange for performing an added responsibility/chore at home. As a symbol of their strong commitment to help Haiti, after making their donations the students were each presented with a paper brick, on which they printed their name and a brief description of what they did to earn their donations, and their hope for that country. The completed bricks were applied to a wall to spell out the word H-O-P-E.

“I worked to clean up my basement after my cousins came by to play,” stated fifth grader Gillian Morrow. “After hearing about the earthquake on the news I felt so bad for the Haitian people and couldn’t help but think how I would want others to help out the United States if a tragedy like that would happen here,” added sixth grader Samantha Parmely.

As a result of the schoolwide drive, Babylon Memorial Grade School collected $3,489, which was donated to UNICEF.

Business Students Climbing to the Top

Babylon High School’s business students have been working extremely hard this year as they strive to become future leaders in the area of business. Below are several highlights of things happening within the school’s business department.

Babylon High School seniors Erin Morvay and Katie Pisciotta participated in the Hofstra University-CME Group Commodities Challenge for High Schools. The students learned about commodities markets from Hofstra professors and, in a simulated trading environment, the students put their skills to the test and experienced the topic firsthand. Both students intend to major in business and stated that the day gave them a valuable look into the finance industry.

As a result of their dedication to the area of business, 40 Babylon High School students were inducted into the Babylon chapter of the New York State Business Honor Society this January. These students demonstrated high academic performance in their business classes, as well as overall high academic achievement. They also met stringent community service requirements and received recommendations from their teachers for admission into the honor society.

Congratulations to the following students:

Annie Ainslie
Jessica Altieri
Jessica Boehm
Abigail Carlock
Kevin Connolly
Elliot Courtney
Max DeMartino
Christine Desiderio
Gregory Dieterich
Jessica Domino
Pamela Dupre
Caitlyn Figoski
Donald Flaherty
Katherine Greene
Maggie Griffo
Sarah Halliday
Casey Holgan
Bryan Hubert
Lloyd Ippolito
Casey Kluesener
Anna Lachowicz
Jaimie McKay
Linda Milano
Maura O’Shea
Julie Piccione
Erin Quinn
Sarah Rende
Paul Ricciardi
Melissa Rinaldo
Korina Sanchez
Jessica Sasuk
Katherine Schweitzer
Jade Tantillo
Krista Virga
Ryan Visgauss
Maxwell Watt
Shannon Weber
Kate Wilson
Michelle Woodard
Erica Zigon

Lastly, 97 Babylon High School students participated in the recent Suffolk County DECA Competition. Vying against more than 2,000 students from across Suffolk County, seven Babylon students placed in the top five in their respective areas.

Congratulations to:

Christian Amelia: #3 in Quick-Serve Restaurant Management
Shannon Weber: #2 in Marketing Math
Jaycee Angello: #2 in Decision-Making Human Resources
Kerry Glenday: #2 in Principles of Marketing
Heather Glenday: #5 in Marketing Management
Elliot Courtney: #3 in Public Speaking
Jamie Mott: #3 in Visual Advertising

Have You Filled a Bucket Today?

As an extension of their character education program, students at Babylon Elementary School in the Babylon School District are learning how to be bucket fillers rather than bucket dippers.

At the beginning of the school year, each teacher received a copy of Carol McCloud’s popular children’s book “Have You Filled Your Bucket Today? A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids,” and have since worked to incorporate the book’s lessons into their classrooms. The book delineates the difference between a filler and a dipper as those who share kinds words or do kind deeds as opposed to those that make mean comments or show disrespect.

To help the students further understand how to better themselves as bucket fillers, Ms. McCloud and her program helper, Peggy Johncox, recently visited the school and conducted two assemblies and an after-school teacher workshop for the faculty. During her visit Ms. McCloud was particularly impressed to hear the different ways the students are becoming bucket fillers, and certified the elementary building as an official Bucket-Filling School. Thanks to the PTA, each student left the assembly with their own copy of the book.

At the faculty workshop, Ms. McCloud expressed her desire to help make the world a bucket-filling place and spoke with the teachers about ways in which to help guide the students in doing so. To jump-start their journey, Principal Dana Spincola gave each teacher a plastic bucket to use as they work with their students on filling a bucket each day.

Students Receive a Dose of Vitamin L

Students at Babylon Memorial Grade School in the Babylon School District received an extra dose of character education lessons when Ithaca, NY-based touring group Vitamin L visited the building in January. During the event, the group performed a number of songs touching upon topics including empathy, gratitude, appreciating diversity, endurance, human rights, friendship, and more. The students and teachers were eager to dance and sing along during the highly successful event. Pictured here are several students with members of the performing group.

Babylon Teacher Named a Bright Light Educator

In recognition of his contributions to the field of education, the Association of Suffolk Supervisors of Educational Technology (ASSET) recently recognized Babylon Junior-Senior High School music teacher Brian Kroll as a “Bright Light” educator. Mr. Kroll's contributions to integrating technology into the classroom have benefited students and the music department greatly. Accompanied by High School Principal Robert Visbal and Babylon School District’s Coordinator of Technology Carole Polney-Marinello, Mr. Kroll spoke briefly during ASSET’s Bright Lights Luncheon about his successes in using Finale software, Garageband, and his website for instructional purposes. Mr. Kroll (far right) is pictured here with Babylon Senior High School Principal Robert Visbal and Coordinator of Assessment Data, Learning, and Technology Carole Polney-Marinello.

Students Create Artwork for Town’s Black History Month Celebration

Babylon Junior High School Art Club members Spencer Reilly (grade 8) and Corinn Hakanson (grade 9) submitted pieces of artwork for the Town of Babylon’s 22nd Annual Black History Month Celebration called “The History of Black Economic Empowerment.” The students’ submissions were inspired by the work of Nigerian-based artist El Anatsui, who constructs large tapestry-like pieces using recycled metal fragments and aluminum labels. Town of Babylon Supervisor Steve Bellone and the Department of Human Services honored Spencer and Corinn for their submissions at the Babylon Town Hall Annex Building in North Babylon in late February. The students are pictured here with Art Club advisor Nina Wood and Director of Fine Arts Angela Turk.

“Beauty Is…”

Students Enter and Win Awards During Reflections Contest

The Babylon School District’s Board of Education, PTA/PTSA members, and administrative team are proud to announce that five district students have been commended for the creative projects they produced for the 2009-2010 PTA Reflections Contest. These pieces were selected from the numerous submissions made to the annual contest and recognized as Suffolk County Award of Excellence winners.

Each of the projects will now move on to the next level of the competition – the state level of judging. This year’s submissions were based on the theme “Beauty Is…”.
Congratulations to the following students:

Avery Bzdyk (Babylon High School) – Musical Composition
Meghan Flaugher (Babylon Elementary School) – Literature
Patricia McGuinness (Babylon Memorial Grade School) – Literature
Matthew Minicozzi (Babylon Elementary School) – Musical Composition
Emma Schubart (Babylon Memorial Grade School) – Musical Composition

It’s Okay to Be Different

In celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, students in Kim Ricchiuti and Shannon Romanchuk’s third-grade class at Babylon Memorial Grade School in the Babylon School District read the book “It’s Okay to be Different” by Todd Parr, and participated in a science experiment called “Are Brown Eggs and White Eggs the Same Inside?”

Keeping with the book’s message that although people have individual characteristics they all remain the same inside, the students made predictions on what they thought is inside each egg. Working with partners, the students completed the five steps to an experiment and concluded that, just like people, the eggs were the same on the inside.

Babylon Students Pledge to ‘X the TXT’

Babylon Junior-Senior High School students made a pledge this December to keep their phones at bay when operating a car when they participated in a national campaign called ‘X the TXT’. Recognizing that car crashes are the number 1 killer of American teens, the school teamed up with Allstate Insurance Company, who is coordinating the program, and Bethpage High School to increase their peers’ awareness of how dangerous texting while driving can be.

Students from both schools made a public pledge by stamping their thumbprint on a banner traveling the country. In appreciation for their participation and commitment to reducing the number of drivers who send text messages while behind the wheel, both schools were presented with a $1,000 Allstate grant to be used for a safe teen drive program.

Texting is one of the most dangerous distractions facing teens today. According to a recent Allstate Foundation study, 82% of driving teens claim to use cell phones while driving, and 49% admit to being extremely distracted by texting and instant messaging while driving.

Happy & Spirited Holidays in Babylon

In addition to spreading holiday cheer during their school concerts, student in the Babylon School District participated in a variety of community service projects to help make this holiday season a happy and bright one for the community.

Babylon Memorial Grade School’s Community Helpers Club, which is advised by Shannon Romanchuk, volunteered at the Association for the Help of Retarded Children’s (AHRC) holiday party. During the event, the students assisted with various activities such as singing Christmas carols, serving refreshments, and handing out gifts to children. Members of the school’s student council also coordinated a “Hats on for the Holidays” fundraiser as well as collected toys, gifts, and store gift cards for local families. The fourth-grade student council made holiday cards for the veterans at Walter Reed Hospital while the school’s third-grade students made get well bags for the children at the Pediatric Center of NUMC.

Students from Babylon Junior-Senior High School put their creative baking skills to the test and participated in the Babylon Village Annual Conklin House Cookie Contest by baking cookies for the Annual Sagtikos Manor Holiday House Tour. Students from Jenna Cucci’s Discovering Foods class entered the annual contest, and the team of Josh Benoit, Bill Braberich, and Jillian Kelly were named this year’s winners. The Junior-Senior High School was one of twelve Long Island schools that donated cookies to the house tour. Proceeds from the house tour are being used for restoration efforts at the historic Sagtikos Manor.

Babylon Elementary School students and staff members worked on several community service projects during the holidays. Looking to help members of the Babylon community, holiday toys were collected during the school’s toy drive for several families living in Babylon. The toys were wrapped and donated to the families just before the holiday break. Teaming up with Macy’s department stores, students drafted letters to Santa for the Why You Believe Contest. For each letter that Macy’s received, the store will donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Lastly, the students in Marie Poelker’s second-grade class collected school supplies and personal hygiene products for the Haven House Bridges homeless shelter in Brentwood. The packages they collected were donated just before the holiday break.

Barricades & Brilliant Performers at BHS

The talented student-actors at Babylon Junior-Senior High School performed one of the most famous musicals of all time this December. Embracing the roles of heroines, heroes, and villains, the more than 35 students cast took to the school’s stage and performed four nearly flawless performances of Victor Hugo’s classic musical Les Misérables.

The students rehearsed for months in order to ensure the complex show was a hit. Additionally, many students worked diligently to construct the musical’s fabulous backdrop and stage props and learn the challenging score of music.

More than 125 local senior citizens feasted on a free, tasty Italian dinner prepared and served by members of Babylon Junior-Senior High School’s Leo Club, which is advised by Lisa Consolo. After finishing their meals, the seniors were presented with complimentary tickets to the Thursday evening performance of this year’s school musical, Les Misérables.

Babylon Art Students Participate in the Fundred Project

Babylon Senior High National Art Honor Society members and students enrolled in the school’s Studio 2 course, both of which are advised and taught by art teacher Cheryl Schweider, recently teamed up with the members of Babylon Junior High School Art Club, which is advised by Nina Wood, and the students in Babylon Elementary School’s art classes taught by Patricia Stork to participate in the Fundred Dollar Bill Project.

The Fundred Project was started by an artist named Mel Chin, who, when helping to rebuild New Orleans after Katrina, discovered a lead problem in the city’s soil. The mission of Fundred is to help raise awareness of this project in order to help combat the problem.

At all three schools, the teachers spoke with their students about the effects that lead can have on children and adults and how they can help to increase awareness of this problem. Putting their creativity to the test, the student created original, hand-drawn paper interpretations of $100 bills. Completed Fundred artworks were then sent to regional Collection Centers that are securely holding the valuable drawings. The organization is aiming to collect at least 3 million Fundreds, or the equivalent of $300 million, from schools around the nation. This represents the estimated cost of making the soil in New Orleans lead-safe.

In January 2010, an armored truck, retrofitted to run on waste vegetable oil, will begin a 17,000-mile cross-country trip to pick up the bills from the Collection Centers. By summer 2010, the armored truck will deliver the Fundreds to Washington D.C., where a request will be made of Congress for an even exchange of the value of the art currency for actual funds and services to support the implementation of Operation Paydirt, a citywide landscape recovery program for New Orleans.

Continuing the Journey

Babylon School District is proud to announce that Babylon High School senior Noelle Rogers recently signed a letter of intent with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) to play lacrosse at Lehigh University.

During her career in the district, Noelle has been a dedicated scholar, having been named to the principal’s list with high honors each year and a devoted member of the National Honor Society, Business Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, and Science Honor Society. She continues to volunteer countless hours to several community service projects, including the Babylon Village Community Scholarship and the Babylon Breast Cancer Coalition. Athletically speaking, Noelle was named a US Lacrosse Academic All-American in 2009 and a member of the Suffolk County Girls Soccer Coaches Association All-Academic Team in 2009.

Noelle, who plays defensive midfield, is looking forward to joining the Lehigh team and intends on pursuing a degree in business.

Celebrating Their Senior Year

The next several months will be filled with an array of emotions for the students in the Babylon High School Class of 2010, as they prepare to complete their journey through the Babylon School District and graduate in June. For one of the “first lasts” of their senior year, members of the Class of 2010 gathered in the school’s gymnasium on November 17, 2009 for the annual Senior-Parent Dinner.

Each family contributed to the event by preparing a special dish and enjoyed sharing the evening together. Additionally, during the event, the senior class cabinet announced the winners of this year’s senior personalities.

With Thanks & Giving in Mind

Babylon Elementary School students, faculty, and staff came together this November to make the holiday season a bit brighter for eight families that were going through a difficult time. With the help of teachers Mary Quinn and Kathy Reynolds and school psychologist Tricia Bocchimuzzo, the school collected hundreds of non-perishable breakfast, lunch, and dinner items during their Thanksgiving Food Drive and delivered them to those families in need just before the holiday.

Just before leaving for the Thanksgiving holiday, the school’s second-grade students put their creative skills to the test and fashioned pilgrim and Native American hats and shirts from paper. The students wore these artistic pieces to the school’s annual Thanksgiving feast. In addition to enjoying a healthy meal, the students sung a few songs, including a piece they called the 12 Days of Thanksgiving.

Junior HS Science Club Formed at BHS

Babylon Junior High School students are delving into science this fall by participating in a new, competitive science club, which was co-founded by science teachers Claire Birone and Mary Beth Schappert. To date, the club consists of 22 students in seventh and eighth grades.

One of the science club’s biggest undertakings this year includes their participation in Stony Brook University’s SMART program, a protein-modeling program that offers students an opportunity to explore the latest research in molecular biology.

The club members are currently studying GFP, a protein found in phosphorescent jellyfish. The protein, originally discovered in 1962, was recently highlighted when Martin Chalfie, the 2009 Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry, showed how the protein could be inserted into live bacteria to be used as a ‘natural flashlight’ to study the moving cells and organelles within them.

To help the students continue with their study, the club’s advisors registered the members with MSOE, the Center for BioMolecular Modeling in Milwaukee – a registration that qualifies the group as a HHMI National Smart Team. In the upcoming months, the students will continue to study and research the GFP protein while interacting with Stony Brook University faculty, graduate students, medical students, and other high school students in laboratory and lecture workshops at the university, as well as within the science classrooms at BHS. The students will will then design and produce a ceramic model of the protein using RASMOL, a college-level computer program.

As a kickoff to the club’s work, Ms. Birone and Mrs. Schappert attended the first training session at Stony Brook University with five representatives from the Science Club in early fall for an intense introduction to RASMOL and computer training at the Center for Science and Mathematics. The remaining club members will attend three additional training sessions at the university for additional training on the GFP protein in order to better understand the item and create models of the protein back in the classroom at BHS using the mobile laptops in the building. The students will ultimately design a full-dimensional model of the protein using computer commands that are taught to college-level graduates.

This project is a great opportunity for junior high students to be exposed to the latest research in molecular biology, learn how to use college-level technology, and compete against high school students in their sophomore and junior years. Ms. Birone and Mrs. Schappert hope to continue to expose the science students to more competitive research and competitions. This winter the junior high science club will also train for Science Olympiads, a nationally and state recognized science competition.

Students Submit Artwork to “Colors of Long Island” Exhibit

Artwork created by Yaniriz Garcia’s second-grade class at Babylon Elementary School in the Babylon School District has been entered into the annual “Colors of Long Island” exhibit. The class’s submission was a sculpture called “The Tree of Life,” which is a mixed media piece that includes leaves created by each student, and a variety of animals, which were applied to the tree trunk.

The exhibit will feature artwork from more than 100 Long Island School Districts grades K-12. Babylon’s submission was created with the help of art teacher Patricia Stork and will be on display at the Long Island Museum of American Art, History, and Carriages in Stony Brook from November 14-December 27.

Roots and Shoots Takes Action

Babylon Junior-Senior High School’s environmental club, Roots and Shoots, recently held a cleanup along the beaches between Oak Beach and Captree State Park. In an effort to raise environmental awareness within the community, Roots and Shoots partnered up with Save the Beaches, a local non-profit group, who provided the nine students and co-advisors, Mary Beth Schappert and Claire Birone, with trash bags, rubber gloves, and official NYS Beach Cleanup report data sheets in order to host the event. Despite the rainy weather, the students eagerly collected and sorted through 10 bags of trash and then sent their data and cleanup reports to the New York offices of the American Littoral Society, who then analyzes the information and shares their compiled findings with the world. Ultimately, this information helps shape national legislation and helps to reduce and defeat the problem of coastal debris.

Co-advisor of Roots and Shoots Mary Beth Schappert commented, “It’s nice to see our students, of all different ages, working together to battle a common problem within our local environment. It’s even nicer to see the students learning outside the classroom. You know that the students are learning about the impact of trash when they’re hauling it 500 yards down a beach in the pouring rain with smiles on their faces. They want to learn and they want to help.”

Claire Birone noted, “I was shocked at the amount of garbage that our students collected in such a short period of time in such a small area. What was even more shocking to the entire group was seeing a driver toss a plastic water bottle out their car window from the bridge above us. It landed right on the beach that we were cleaning! There’s a certain shock value and valuable lesson in an experience like that.”

In total, the students collected 2 paper bags, 81 plastic bags, 28 balloons, 93 plastic beverage bottles, 40 glass bottles, 45 beverage cans, 12 caps/lids, 5 articles of clothing/shoes, 33 disposable utensils, 44 food wrappers/containers, 2 pull tabs, 3 six-pack holders, 1 shotgun shell, 2 straws, 1 toy, 1 crate, 15 tangled batches of fishing line, 3 fishing lures, 1 fishing net, 1 light bulb, 2 oil containers, 1 canvas tarp, 13 pieces of rope, 25 cigarette filters, 85 pieces of broken Styrofoam, 1 diaper, and 14 pieces of small plastic. Roots and Shoots will continue to host beach cleanups throughout our local communities every spring and fall.

Saying Thanks with Sweets

Babylon Memorial Grade School Coordinates Candy Drive for Soldiers Overseas

For the second year in a row, this November students at Babylon Memorial Grade School in the Babylon School District demonstrated a tremendous amount of character when they generously donated more than 1,000 pounds of their Halloween candy to a worthy cause – soldiers fighting for our nation’s freedom. The project, which was called Operation: Sweet Tooth, was implemented by fifth grader Alex Singleton and received tremendous support from the entire student body and staff.

After speaking about why the donations could mean so much to soldiers serving overseas, the building’s students, faculty, and staff members vowed to help this cause. Throughout the week following Halloween, thousands of unwrapped, unopened treats were donated by the bucketful. In addition to the candy donations, students from each class in the school put pen to paper and created thoughtful cards for the intended recipients.

After the candy was sorted and boxed, with the help of club advisors Tammy Tillinghast and Cheryl Murphy, the packages were donated to the Jacob’s Light Foundation. Jacob Fletcher was a graduate of the Babylon School District and served in Northern Iraq before he was killed by a roadside bomb.

This year’s project was coordinated by Alex and the school’s Kids Character Club. The school extends their deepest appreciation to Doug Chapey, a grade school parent, for helping to financially support this initiative for the past two years. This was truly a wonderful and engaging project.

Up And Coming Entrepreneurs Visit Local Restaurant

Two Babylon High School college entrepreneurship classes, taught by Andrew Marulis, recently visited local restaurant owners, the Domingo family, at their quaint Babylon Village restaurant, Il Villagio, as a way of learning more about starting a new business.

Housed on Deer Park Avenue for 15 years, the restaurant serves up a variety of delicious Italian entrees in a rustic, yet sophisticated environment.

During their visit, nearly 60 students learned the how-to's of restaurant ownership as the Domingos explained location, pricing, food ordering, decorating, staffing, and other important facets of running a business. They students were treated to a delicious bread and chicken finger basket and were served complimentary beverages. The students valued the opportunity to meet with real business owners and to discuss and learn about the excitement of running one's own business.

Singers to Perform in Prestigious Ensembles

Five Babylon High School choral students have been selected to perform during the 2009 NYSSMA All-State Winter Conference in Rochester, NY at the beginning of December. This honor, which is based on a student’s ranking and superior adjudication rating at the annual New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) Solo Festival each spring, is extremely competitive. The Babylon students selected will be joining with the top student-musicians from Suffolk County and New York State to perform under nationally recognized conductors in their respective groups. Congratulations to Alex Leitch, Julia O’Brien, Elizabeth Oman, Kathryn Sherwood, and Daniel Wright.

In addition to being selected to perform with the All-State Woman’s Chorus ensemble, Julia O’Brien was also chosen to sing with the All-County Woman’s Chorus.

District Honors Board Members

Babylon School District’s Board of Education members dedicate a countless amount of hours each year to the students and community. Working together, the members strive to provide all students with a quality educational program funded within the means of the community’s taxpayers. To thank the members for the work they have done so far and will be doing in the months ahead, the district’s administrative team, students, parents, and community members celebrated Board of Education Recognition Week during the October Board meeting.

“These individuals are ones that put their whole hearts into educating our community’s youngsters,” stated Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ellen Best-Laimit. “They have joined together with one mission in mind and are very dedicated to fulfilling that mission. Tonight, the students of Babylon have come together to thank you for all that you have done.”

During the event, students from the Elementary School performed several vocal numbers, members of the Grade School band played a few familiar tunes, and actors from the Junior-Senior High School provided the audience with a sneak peak at a scene from their upcoming musical production of Les Miserables. Additionally, members of the Babylon Teachers Association presented the Board trustees with a commemorative gift and the PTA presented certificates of appreciation.

BHS Presents Les Misérables School Edition This December

Come see Victor Hugo's classic novel adapted for the stage! Babylon Junior-Senior High School’s Theatre Company is very excited to produce this herculean theatrical effort after last year's celebrated spring concert, at which the senior high chorus wowed the audience with beautifully sung selections from the score. Now, BHS Theatre is adding lights, sound, costumes, and yes, a barricade!

Please note that this year's Thursday, December 10th senior citizen performance sponsored by the Leo Club (5:00 p.m. curtain), at which seniors are admitted free, is now open to the public for this special occasion, with ticket prices of $12 for adults and $7 for students. The Leo Club will also be offering a free dinner program for seniors attending the show. Dinner will begin at 3:30 p.m. Seniors must RSVP that they are attending both programs. RSVPs can be made by contacting 893-7910 and must be received by 12:00 noon on December 9th.

For the remaining shows, ticket prices are the same, with senior citizens paying $2 for admittance. The rest of the musical's run is Friday, December 11th (7:30 p.m. curtain); Saturday, December 12th (7:30 p.m. curtain); and Sunday, December 13th (2:00 p.m. curtain). Tickets went on sale at the beginning of November. All performances are in Rowe Hall in the Junior-Senior High School. Please call the main office for further information: 631-893-7910.

This musical has been specially adapted and licensed by MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL and CAMERON MACKINTOSH.

Setting an Example for Others

Babylon High School’s News Literacy class was spotlighted this fall by Stony Brook University’s School of Journalism as the only Long Island high school to have a half-year elective course on the subject. Stony Brook Director for News Literacy Dean Miller visited the school at the beginning of October to observe the class, which is taught by Mark Malaszczyk, and had a part of the lesson taped for his research on News Literacy.

The News Literacy class at BHS has been included in the building’s curriculum for the past two years and is offered to students in grades 9-12. This fall, 13 students enrolled in the course.

The lesson observed by Mr. Miller concerned current events and the differences between reporting overseas and in the United States. Mr. Malaszczyk focused on why press freedom is important and the role of the Committee to Protect Journalists. The completed video will be posted to the Stony Brook site and will hopefully be useful for future high school conferences.

Small Feet Make A Big Difference

Although the forecast called for morning rain, the spirits were sunny at Babylon Elementary School this October as the school’s students, teachers, and community participated in International Walk to School Day. Joining with peers from across the world, the students, with umbrellas in hand, left traditional transportation options at home(including buses and cars), and, with the help of their parents, walked to school to be a part of this global event, and bring forth change in communities across the globe.

“It was so nice to see our school community come together for this event, especially given the stormy start to the morning,” stated Principal Dana Spincola. “This is our second time participating in the event; we hope to continue the tradition for many years to come.”

As the walkers approached the school they were not only met by the smiling faces of the school’s faculty, but also the sounds of some walking tunes, including “Walking on Sunshine.” Upon arriving at the school, the students were given a commemorative sticker for walking and congratulated by physical education teacher Rob Andrews, who coordinated the program with Ms. Spincola.

Babylon Senior a Medal Winner

As a result of his dedication and commitment to his academics, Babylon High School senior Salvatore Albanese has been awarded this year’s Rensselaer Medal. This medal is awarded to students who have distinguished themselves in the areas of mathematics and science. In addition to a commemorative certificate from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), this honor entitles Salvatore to a $15,000 per year merit scholarship, which would be applied to his annual tuition should he elect to attend RPI in the fall.
The Rensselaer Medal is presented annually to recognize the superlative academic achievement of young men and women, and to motivate students towards careers in science, engineering, and technology. If he chooses to attend RPI, Salvatore will receive his official Medal during an Honors Convocation program in the fall.

Grade School Receives Award for Character Education Video

From the moment you walk in the doors at Babylon Memorial Grade School in the Babylon School District, you know that it is a school where character counts. Last year, the school was recognized by The Character Education Partnership (CEP), based in Washington, D.C., as a National School of Character. This award came as the result of a comprehensive application and review process, and the district could not be prouder of the honor.
As the school continues on the road to both educate for character as a priority and share their experiences with others, they have been asked to participate in a project to help promote their character offerings and initiatives with other schools across the country. The CEP recently challenged National School of Character (NSOC) winners to consider creating a 15-minute video to help educate others about Character Education.
The challenge was to depict how CEP’s 11 Principles were used to guide a NSOC in pursuing excellence. Under the leadership of Alena Berenblatt, a Grade School Character Education Committee member, and her son Avery Bzdyk who attends Babylon High School, the committee produced a poignant video on the Grade School. As a result of this project, the school was presented with a $2,500 award.

Hispanic Heritages Honored in Babylon

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, students at Babylon Memorial Grade School in the Babylon School District took time during their Foreign Languages in the Elementary School (FLES) class to learn about the different foods and cultures from Hispanic countries from around the world. The course, which has been offered in the district for several years, is provided to students in grades four through six. Through this class, students learn to speak Spanish and are encouraged to speak only that language while in the FLES classroom.
This year, sixth grader Isabella Alonso worked with FLES teacher Lilly Salcedo to create a Hispanic Heritage Luncheon program for the school’s sixth-grade class. Students interested in participating in the event were encouraged to prepare a Hispanic dish that they enjoy in their homes. Included in the offerings were arroz con pollo, enchiladas, tacos, taco salads, black bean and chicken burritos, arroz de leche, banana cake, Spanish potato salad, and biscochitos. Also with their selected dish, the students were asked to create note cards stating what Spanish country the dish is from, along with the recipe.
“This was a great way for the students and teachers to celebrate a culture that is present within the U.S.,” stated Isabella. “I am really excited to see how many of my peers will be participating in the event. This program helps us to better understand the language and culture.”

Student Recognized for Achievements

Babylon Senior High School student Joseph Anderson was recently recognized by the Suffolk County Youth Bureau with the Suffolk County Executive’s 2009 Youth Achievement Award. In a proclamation received by Joseph, it states that the award recognizes the “invaluable contributions of individuals who give their time, efforts, and talents, without recompense, to overcome unbelievable obstacles in their young lives to come out on the other side and achieve.”
“It is indeed a pleasure for me to take a moment to recognize the young men and women who have faced challenges that might have stopped the average person,” noted Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy. “The example you set, especially because of your youth, is a lesson and an inspiration to all of us.”

Reading Never Goes Out of Style

Nearly 200 Babylon Grade School students were honored at the end of September for their participation in the school’s summer reading program. Principal Eric Freidman, Administrator for Curriculum and Instruction Daniel D’Amico, and school reading specialist Robin LaBarbera commended these students for their outstanding dedication to literacy during the summer months.

“I truly applaud you for the work that you did over the vacation,” stated Ms. LaBarbera. “Reading has always been a passion of mine and I am impressed to see how many of you took time during the summer to participate in this program,” added Mr. D’Amico.

These students were inducted into the Summer Reading Honor Roll, a recognition earned by reading at least two books and completing a reading response on each. The students who earned a spot on the honor roll were congratulated during a breakfast celebration and presented with a certificate of participation.

Students Named AP Scholars by the College Board

Babylon High School’s curriculum offers students the opportunity to enroll in a variety of courses and the chance to excel academically on different levels. Included in the school’s program are 11 Advanced Placement (AP) classes, courses that challenge students to think and achieve at college levels. As a result of their work in these classes, the College Board has recognized several students as Advanced Placement Scholars.

“These students are some of Babylon’s brightest shining stars and I am thrilled to see them get the recognition they so rightly deserve,” stated Director of Guidance/School Counseling Tracy Lesnick. “Their hard work and dedication to their academic studies is to be commended.”

Michael Augello, Ryan Berry, Claire Buser, Maria Castaneda, Mackenzie Grant, Caroline Hackett, and Kathryn Pisciotta have been named AP Scholars, a distinction granted to students who receive scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP exams.

In recognition of receiving an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams, Benjamin Gumbardo, Elizabeth Oman, and Alyse Wexler have been named AP Scholars with Honor.

Lastly, two Babylon students, Salvatore Albanese and Alexander Leitch, have been granted one of the College Board’s highest honors and been named AP Scholars with Distinction. This award is presented to students who receive an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams.

Best of the Best

Babylon Senior Named National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalist

Babylon High School senior Sal Albanese has been named a Semifinalist in the 55th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Sal, an academically talented high school student, qualified for this honor by taking the 2008 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which served as an initial screen of program entrants.

With Semifinalist status, Sal now has an opportunity to continue in the competition alongside approximately 16,000 students nationwide in order to obtain some 8,200 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $36 million. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, Sal must fulfill several requirements and advance to the Finalist level of the competition.

Finalists in the competition will be announced in the spring of 2010 and winners will be announced beginning in April and concluding in July.

The Babylon School District congratulates Sal on this honor and wishes him the best of luck during the next level of the competition.