Oceanside BOE : June 10 Regular Meeting

001Anything else? Oh yeah, there's in the ring. All right. You want to sit here? Yeah. She wants to stay here. Okay. >> We ask everybody to please find a seat. We are going to be starting in 10 seconds. Before we get started, we got to say two things. Go Knicks. [cheering] That's it. [applause] Okay. At this particular time, welcome to the June 10th meeting, Board of Education meeting. It's going to be a great meeting tonight. I guarantee you honors. We got the retirees. We have everything that's going on. I mean, this is just a spectacular meeting, but we also want to try to get to the Knicks uh game at 8:30, but it's not going to happen except for the honors and the retirees. They'll be out first. >> We'll have a watch party. Um

002we're going to stand up for the pledge of allegiance. I'm going to ask school two and purses from school 8 for the leading the pledge. >> You can flag the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Our national anthem is going to be sung by Emma Lopez, members choir, and the all state mysma vocalist for a 2526 school year. And after that, we'll have a moment of silence. Emma >> say dawn early light what so proudly [screaming] we held at the twilight last gleaming who's but stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight or The ramparts we watch were so gallently streaming. And the red bombs burst in g through the night that a flag was still there. For

003say does that star spangled the may for the and the [applause] please remain standing. [applause] We need a moment of silence for our active military. Our active military right now serving abroad. Our Nassau County Police Department, our Oceanside Fire Department, our all our first responders and our doctors and our nurses that keep us safe. A minute. >> Okay, please sit down. Thank you. >> No, not you. Not you. Not you. What? I shut this off. >> So, we shifted gear for a few moments. We'd like to make a presentation to Brian Lusco. He's a student rep um to the board of education. So, in case you don't know, last year uh was our first one that we had Dennis Yoshabaya. This year we had Brian. Brian's the uh student representative, but he's more than that.

004He was asked to do a job to come up here and he represents all the students in Oceanside that has roughly little less than 6,000 students. And he represents them on our board and he does a great job. He advises us. He lets us know what's going on. and most and most of the time he's right because we're not in school. Um, on this plaque it says, "In recognition of your dedicated service, leadership, and commitment to representing the student voice, your insight and contributions have been a valuable part of the board's work and having strengthened the connection between students and district leaderships with zero appreciation from the OSHA board of education central administration. every student that's in our district, every administrator, every principal, every chairperson, every person that needs a voice, Brian is here for

005them besides the board of education. So, at this time, I'd like to ask Brian to come up. He's going to take a picture. I don't want his mother and father up here also [applause] and and take a picture. Come on. [applause] Take a picture. Excellent. [applause] >> Thank you. [applause] [applause] >> Thank you. Thank you. I'll I'll read it, but you can give it to her. >> So, last week, uh, we had an amazing honors and scholarship award ceremony at our high school where we honored so many of our graduating seniors and they were awarded significant amounts of money uh, in scholarship. So proud of all of them. There's one recognition that we hold special for this particular meeting because it is a scholarship that is given uh independently by the board of education through

006an organization called scope. Scope is a NASA suffic organization actually it it expands beyond that that primarily focuses on professional development for learning organizations such as school districts and boards of education and the board has to make a conscious decision to be a member in scope and this board uh because of their due diligence um have been members of scope for the past number of years. One of the things Scope gives back in recognition of our membership and in honor of the board of education is a very special $500 scholarship. And I would like to ask um the following individual to join me and Mrs. Diamzia at the podium. Miss Lauren Dow. [applause] So let me tell you just a little bit about Lauren. Lauren is an exceptional student athlete and leader who exemplifies dedication,

007perseverance, and integrity in everything she does. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or in the community, Lauren consistently demonstrates maturity beyond her years. Her compassionate nature shines through in all she does, and her teachers consistently praise her character, determination, and positive attitude. Lauren's academic achievements extend well beyond the classroom. She's a member of the National Honor Society, English Honor Society, and World Language Honor Society, where she has earned also the seal of biiteracy in Spanish. Lauren's leadership extends into many areas of school life. She serves as president of DECA where she is a top 10 finisher in competition. Also, as an athlete, Lauren is equally impressive. She's a varsity co- captain and thrower for the track and field team, which I find hard to believe when you you look at her, but she does

008this during both the winter and spring seasons. She also serves as captain of her club soccer team, a sport she's played since the age of four. In addition to her academic and extracurricular commitments, Lauren has maintained steady employment through her high school career, demonstrating exceptional time management, responsibility, work ethic, and financial literacy. Lauren will be attending the University of Delaware in his prestigious nursing program and honors college. I have no doubt that her strong work ethic, leadership skills, intellectual curiosity, and compassion for others will lead her to great success in college and beyond. Lauren is truly deserving of this board recognition and scope award and serves as an outstanding role model for her peers. Let us all congratulate Lauren Dow. [applause] >> [applause] [applause] >> Come on. Come on. Come this way. Come a little

009more. [applause] >> As you know, throughout the year, we recognize students and faculty members for a whole host of achievements. But tonight, we have a special opportunity to recognize two of our own board of education members. We have the distinct honor of a guest with us this evening, Mr. Bob Veio, who is the executive director of the Nassau SuffK School Boards Association. I call him to the podium to recognize two of our most amazing board members. [applause] Good evening, everybody. After listening to Lauren's resume, I feel like a total slacker. I got to tell you, I'm going to go home and just do some extra stuff just because. Um, first off, Dr. Harrington, thank you very much. Mr. President, the rest of the board, thank you. School community, thank you very much. I get the

010distinct honor and pleasure of representing boards of education from across Long Island, advocating for public education both in Albany and DC. And I got to tell you, the Oceanside team holds a special place in my heart because they're among the best of the best that I deal with across this region and across this state. So, I want to give the entire governance team a big round of applause because you guys really have a special team here. Really do. And a special shout out to Mr. Steve Kaplan. He's a member of our executive committee. So, he's one of my bosses. He's one of the funniest guys I've ever run into. And he does amazing things with Star Wars and everything else. So, thank you for the additional service to our organization that you put in there,

011Stu. Thank you. [applause] Tonight, uh, we get to recognize two of your board members with the Nassau SuffK School Board Association Dedicated Schoolboard Service Award. People who get this award have served on a board of education for over 24 years. That's a long time to be doing what they have done so well. And it's a true testament to commitment, service above self, and these two gentlemen certainly embody that. Um, and when we got their applications to be recognized for this, you know, reading everything that they've done over this period of time, I mean, you guys have seen transformative changes in public education. You've seen the highs, the lows, and you've had a steady hand in leadership, and it's a proven fact that you have steady governance teams. Strong governance teams lead to strong schools. So

012these two gentlemen certainly exemplify that. So I want to congratulate and welcome up uh Mr. Donald Mlesca. And in his uh application, we heard that he's been on the board for 24 years in counting. And as a board of education trustee, he's known for genuine enthusiasm for the students. And apparently you could be often found at concerts, theater productions, and other school events. So people want to know if you ever go home at times, they bounce. So give him a big round of applause for his committed service. [applause] Well done. >> Stay here. >> Yeah, stay here so we can bring up your colleague with you. And and let me tell you that Oceanside had the most uh dedicated schoolboard service awards this year. So you took first place in the longest uh serving board

013members uh this past year. So Robert Transom over two decades of service exemplified what it means to be a public servant. In addition to serving here for over 24 years, he's involved in many other local community organizations, including being president of Oceanside Community Service, where there you run a food pantry for families in need. And well done on that service above self as well, sir. So once again, congratulations to Trustee Trans. [applause] >> Yep. Oh, you guys get one of those. One of those. >> Thank you. >> Oh, in addition, they get the limited edition Nassau SuffK School Board Association challenge coins. [applause] >> Congratulations. Thank you. Thank you very much. [applause] Thank you very very much. So we got the at this time at this particular time. Brian, would you like to bring up

014your uh staff first from the high school and middle school and middle school too? >> You're up, Brian. >> Oh, thank you. I would like to invite up Mack Oell and Jeremiah McDall. [applause] As the school year draws to a close, students and teachers are working diligently to prepare for regions and final exams. Our classrooms are becoming focused learning environments where teachers provide support and review sessions to ensure stu students are fully prepared. This period reflects the commitment to our entire school community to academic excellence and student success. A varsity sports award night on June 2nd honored student athletes across all varsity programs for their exceptional performances and dedication. Distinguished ath athletes received recognition for outstanding athletic achievements, leadership and sportsmanship. The evening showcased the excellence and strong values of our student athletes. Students took

015home scholarships and awards at our honor night presented by distinguished guest speakers. Parents packed the auditorium to show their support and celebrate their children's academic success. This evening recognized the hard work and achievements for our entire community. Our arts awards night highlighted the talent and students in music, visual arts, theater, and dance. Performers and artists shared their work and dedication throughout the evening. This event demonstrated how vital the arts are to our school. Our seniors will gather tomorrow for our barbecue and slideshow celebrating their final time as a class. They will receive yearbooks and watch a slideshow featuring memorable moments from the high school years. It's a chance to reflect on friendships before they graduate. Tomorrow evening, our senior class host a motherdaughter dinner for an evening of connection and celebration. Mothers and daughters will

016spend time together strengthening their bonds during this important time in our senior's lives. The dinner honors the women who have supported our seniors throughout high school. Tuesday, June 16th, marks the final day of classes, bringing another successful school year to a close. We'll take time to recognize the growth and accomplishments of our students. It is a moment to look back on what we've achieved and look ahead to what's coming. Graduation takes place Friday, June 26th, as our senior class receives their diplomas. Our graduates will step into their next chapter of pride in their accomplishments. The school community will gather to celebrate these young adults and their futures. Prom and dawn delirium happen Monday, June 29th, giving students exciting ways to mark the end of the year. Both events promise fun, music, and lasting memories as

017our school comes together one final time. Our students will celebrate the end of this chapter and the beginning of new adventures. [applause] Thank you. Now, I just have a quick word for the board of education. Good evening, everyone. Board members, administrators, teachers, family, and my fellow students. This is my last meeting as your student rep, which is honestly hard to believe. A year ago, I showed up to my first meeting, not totally sure what a student rep even did. I just knew there'd be a lot of long agendas ahead of me. But looking back, this year gave me so much more than I expected. sitting at this table tell me what real leadership actually looks like. It's not about being the loudest voice in the room. It's about listening, staying patient, and showing up. I've

018learned a lot just watching, just from watching how this board carries itself and makes its decisions with the whole community in mind. I also gained a kind of insight most students never get. I saw firsthand how much thought and care goes into running our schools, all the work happening behind the scenes that most people never see. One of the proudest moments of my year was getting to help present the budget. Standing up here and being trusted with something that important showed me how seriously this board takes the responsibility [music] it has to every student in our district. The lessons I've learned in this room are going to stick with me for the rest of my life. How to speak up, how to listen, how to think about more than just myself and make my decision.

019Those are things I'll carry with me long after high school. This experience has even shaped my future. Coming into this year, I wasn't sure what I wanted to pursue after high school. But having the privilege to experience all this has made me want to go into the education field and I'll and I'll be pursuing that as Sunni Courtland. This district has given me opportunities, friendships, and the honor of growing up in this in this town that I genuinely cannot put into words. This board takes care of every single student in this district like their its own kids, and I felt that firsthand. I'm so grateful I got to be a part of it. Thank you to the entire board for trusting me with this role. To the administrators and teachers for your guidance, and to

020everyone who made this year one I'll never forget. Serving as your student representative has been one of the greatest honors of my time as a student. Thank you. [applause] [applause] Well, it's going to be hard to beat that. But I'd also like to thank the board of education for everything you guys do for students, staff, and our district in our in our community. Uh it has been a privilege to attend and speak all these meetings as the go vice president. And for me next year, I will be attending Yukon in the fall. And now I would like to do introduce the next go representatives for High School. So if you'd like to stand, President James BYER [applause] Vice President Jeremiah McDow, [applause] Secretary Angelina Voir, [applause] and finally, Treasurer Jack Chason. [applause] >> Thank you

021so much. And I'll now like to invite up the Oceanside Middle School. [applause] Good evening, members of the board of education, superintendent, administrators, and guests. We are proud to represent Oceanside Middle School's principal council. This year marked the first year of our principal council, a group created to give students additional leadership opportunities and a stronger voice in our school community. Throughout the year, we were work we worked closely with our principal and staff members to share ideas, provide feedback, and help lead schoolwide initiatives. One of our biggest projects this year was supporting the Makea-Wish Foundation. Our fundraising efforts began in September with a special assembly hosted by representatives from the Makea-Wish Foundation. During the assembly, we learned about the important work of nonprofit organizations and how the Makea-Wish helps children and families who are facing

022serious illnesses. The assembly inspired us to think about how we can make a difference. As a council, we helped promote fundraising events, encouraging participation, and shared information with our classmates about the impact their contributions could have. Our largest fundraiser was the MS Polar Bear Plunge sweatshirt sale. Thanks to the support of our students, staff, and families, we sold hundreds of sweatshirts, helping us move closer to our goal of raising $10,000 for the Makea-Wish Foundation. Throughout the year, we also organized and promoted several other fundraising events, including a threeon-ree basketball tournament, our St. Patrick's Day green bagel sale, and our Pi Day pizza sale. These events not only raised money but also brought our community together for a great cause. Tomorrow we will be holding our culminating event the color run. Nearly 150 students and staff

023members have registrated to participate in this halfmile run with all proceeds benefiting the Makea-Wish Foundation. We are so excited to celebrate all of the hard work that has gone into this year's fundraising events. Being a part of principal's council has taught us the importance of leadership, teamwork, and using our voices to create a positive change. It has shown us that even as middle school students, we can make a meaningful impact in each other's lives. We are especially excited on that on the last day of school, representatives from the Makea-Wish Foundation will return to LMS to share stories of recent wishes they have granted and the impact those wishes had on children and families. Most importantly, we will have the opportunity to present them with a check that we believe will exceed $10,000 to support their

024incredible work. [applause] As we look ahead to next year, we are already exploring new organizations and causes that we could support as a school community. We look forward to continuing this work and finding new ways to raise awareness, inspire others, and make a difference. Thank you for giving us this opportunity to share our experiences with you this evening. [applause] I'd now like to invite up uh the school number two student representatives. [applause] >> Good evening. My name is Ella Basil and I'm the president of School 2 student council. Joining me tonight are Lizzie Deg Grom, our vice president, Tommy Warner, our treasurer, and Grace Power, our secretary. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to share some of the highlights from school, too. So many wonderful things happened at school 2 this year that we

025could talk for hours, but tonight we would just like to share a few of our favorites. Some of our long-standing traditions and service projects included for the past eight years, we have supported Katie Gives back. Katie is an Oceanside student who gives back to children receiving treatment at Stonybrook and Sloanketing hospitals. We proudly continue to support the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which honors military members and first responders who have made tremendous sacrifices for our country. Student council ran our snack shack throughout the year and raised over $300 for school, too. In partnership with the Oceanside Community Service, we help support annual food and toy drives. Supporting our local families remains a priority at school, too. Construction is still an exciting event. Students donated over 2,000 cans for St. Anony's food pantry and use them to

026build a model of our school before donating them. K. Kids ran their annual lemonade for lime stand and raised money for children battling pediatric Lyme disease through a lemonade stand fundraiser. This year's theme for PARP 2026 was follow Florence into a world of books. Students traveled virtually around the world through books and and videos featuring Florence the Fox, inspiring us to read and learn about different countries and cultures. Our sixth grade students had the incredible opportunity to listen to Edith Gross, a Holocaust survivor, share her experiences during the Holocaust and remind us all about the importance of kindness, respect, and standing up for others. We are also grateful that she took the time out of her day to tell us about her life back then. We know it wasn't easy for her. She actually hugged

027every single sixth grade sixth grade student, which is something we will remember for the rest of our lives. [applause] >> Florence the Fox, our school mascot. Oh, sorry. We would also introduce many new exciting events this year. Florence the Fox, our school mascot, was introduced to us at the end of last year. She attended all of our special events and brought excitement and school spirit wherever she went. School number two was so lucky and excited when we were able to create our own lunch menu for a week. Students in fourth, fifth, and sixth grade took a survey and then student council worked with the head of food services and created our new lunch menu around that survey. I think the favorite was walking nachos or mac and cheese. School number two hosted its first ever

028glow run. The gym was transformed with glow sticks, neon decorations, and lots of school spirit for a fun-filled event. We also participated in creating neurodyiversity butterflies. Every student decorated a butterfly that was displayed throughout the building, reminding us that our differences make us special and unique. [applause] Mental health awareness month was a huge success. Each week in May, students shared mental health tips during the morning announcements, and classes watched videos of our counselor and health and wellness teacher, Miss Stoulles, reading mental health books. Our sixth grade students created DBT cards with positive coping strategies and helped create a mindful meadow, a quiet space where students could and staff could take a moment to relax, reflect, and reset. Every single student also took part in a mental health toolkit event where they rotated through four stations

029focused on mindfulness, breathing, sensory activities, and positive affirmations. By the end of each event, each student left with a toolkit full of resources to support their mental health both in and out of school. These are just a few of the many exciting things that happened at school to number two this year. [applause] BEFORE WE FINISH, we would like to recognize a very special group of people. On behalf of every student at school number two, we would like to rec congratulate all the retirees in our district and thank them for the impact they have made on Oceanside students throughout their careers. At school number two, we are especially sad because we are saying goodbye to seven amazing teachers, including our own sixth grade teachers, Miss Gales, Miss Farad, and Miss Sunberg. They made our final year

030at school number two unforgettable. They taught us so much, supported us every day, and helped us grow into the students we are today. We wish all of our retirees a happy, healthy, and relaxing retirement. Thank you for making a difference at in the lives of so many students. Thank you again for giving us the opportunity to share school number two's highlights. Who knows, maybe you'll see us next year representing Student Council next year. Thank you. [applause] All right, hold on guys. Are they done? Mrs. Gails, >> the tunnels, >> the the I know you can warm them up cuz I always do this, but tunnels for towers. Can you talk a little bit more because I know you guys are so young and you know that happened during 911, those fire represent the firefighters that

031ran up the uh World Trade Center. Uh what' you guys get out of that? I mean, because you guys weren't even born back then. Does the president want to speak about that, Liz? I think. >> No. >> Um, no. >> Go ahead. >> The Tunnels to Towers Foundation was like a fundraiser that we did and we asked every student in school number two to donate about a dollar and so they can build like the hotel. Wait, what's it called? Very nice. >> And how much did you And how much money did you guys collect? >> Um, >> around >> like $300. >> Perfect. Excellent. Thank you guys so much for that. [applause] >> OKAY. >> And one other thing, not from them, but uh James, you're going to be the new guy next year. You

032know, this is a hard shooter fit there. I mean, he's our guy up here. So, when you get up here, you just can't like the bar is raised. So, you got to come in with an AA plus. >> You got it. Thanks, James. All right. At this particular time, we're going to start the honor honor ceremony. These are the people that will be able to get home and watch the Knicks and not the people that will be staying back saying, "I wish my kid got an honor." Welcome parents, [music] students, staff, and members of the community to the honors ceremony portion of the board of education meeting. Honores, please come to the stage when your name is announced. Teachers and coaches, please join your students on the stage for a photo. When the ceremony is

033concluded, we invite everyone to stop by the cafeteria for refreshments from our food service department. Dr. Kley, we're in good shape with that. Okay, good. Our first speaker is Mrs. Diane Bravito, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology. Diane, [applause] >> thank you. Mr. Drosio, I am incredibly proud to congratulate Samantha Herman of Oceanside Middle School who has been recognized as an outstanding untenured middle, junior, or high school social studies teacher by the Long Island Council for the Social Studies. She was nominated by Joseph Luttori of MS. Please join us, Miss Herman. [applause] >> Congratulations. I'm going to give you >> [applause] >> Lisa Jerice, who teaches at school number two, has been named You can give her a round of applause NOW [cheering] [applause] has been named a NASTAR a NASA Association of School

034Technologist award recipient. NASTAR are recognized by their colleagues for their innovation, their ability to seamlessly integrate technology and for their exemplary technology leadership. Mr. Grace will be honored at the 8th annual Nastic Nastar Celebration Lunchon this week. Congratulations. [applause and cheering] [applause] >> Thank you. >> The George Farber Award. Congratulations to Nicholas Dabono of Oceanside High School who received the 2026 George Farber outstanding student award at Nassau Aboseis. Nicholas was selected from among all nominated students for his talent, character, passion, and good citizenship. Qualities that reflect the legacy of former board President George Farber for whom the award was named. [applause] Okay, >> multiple Eagle Scouts. >> Yeah, not yet. We have one more before Eagle Scouts. Town of Hemstead recycling poster contest. Congratulations to Aiden Rosie of of school number five who received [applause]

035so cute. [applause] Aiden received an honorable mention in the town of Hemstead Reworld Recycling Poster Contest. After learning about sustainability, ocean pollution, and our responsibility as citizens to protect the environment, Aiden was inspired to use his talents to focus on recycling. Aiden's project extra teacher is Kristen Sta. Let's see if he [applause] congratulations. Now you have >> you got it. >> Congratulations to the following students who have earned the highest rank in their respective scouting organizations. Gold for Girl Scouts and Eagle for Boy Scouts. Each student completed a significant community service project. for her Girl Scouts Gold Project. Lauren Young created and conducted workshops on patriotism for children in grades K through eight. She partnered with the VFW on a presentation called Patriotic Pals with activities and crafts teaching patriotic songs, holidays, symbols, and branches

036of the military. Oceanside Library has adopted it as a resource in their children's section. Congratulations, LAUREN. >> [applause] >> DYLAN CAMPBELL created a library of plant cutings for the newly built Oceanside Library, building a glass shelving unit with magnetic jars so community members could share and take plant cutings. We're gonna Is he up? [applause] There's quite a few, so I'll just go all the way. Okay. Douglas Weidman designed and led the installation of a memorial at Fireman's Field in Baldwin, honoring two firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty, including trees, a bench, and commemorative plaques. [applause] Kaden Brown created sensory kits for local first responders containing items to assist children and adults with special needs such as autism and ADHD. [applause] Tyler Marshiel built an out built an outdoor stations of the

037cross display at St. Christopher's Parish in Baldwin. >> [applause] >> Max Greenberg led a team of scouts in building and assembling new bookcases for the St. Anony's Senior Cent's Library. [applause] Carly Collins organi Oh, I apologize. Charlie Collins organized his scouting peers in a project to construct garden beds for the preschool of St. Anony's Roman Catholic Church. [applause] And finally, Christian Carbonero built a granite altar for his church as well. CONGRATULATIONS. [applause] >> YEP. We are complete. [applause] And now it is my pleasure to introduce Sha Shy, our director of security. [applause] This award is going to Matt Fontaine. [applause] While working at school 5, Matt encountered Mrs. Bernardet Beansky, the school nurse, assessing and then attempting to give abdominal thrust to a fellow employee, Miss Dolly Bat. At this time, Miss Bat was struggling

038to breathe and it was determined she was choking. Remaining calm under pressure, Matt immediately sprang into action, performed abdominal thrusts, successfully dislodged the object and helping save her life. Matt Fontaine is a lifelong resident of Oceanside. He's dedicated 20 years to the New York City Police Department before retiring. He continues his commitment to the community by working in the Oceanside School District for the past four years. Matt is also raising three children in this community. Matt's dedication to helping others remains unwavering. His quick thinking, training, and composure in a critical moment made all the difference. Matt's actions exemplify the very best of public service and the community spirit. We are incredibly grateful for Matt's courage and selfless response. His actions remind us that heroes continue to serve long after they retire. [applause] >> [applause] >>

039I think she also [applause] [laughter] >> that doesn't fit. >> Good job. Come on. >> Take a picture with us. Come on. >> Another round of applause. This guy save someone's life. [applause] That doesn't happen every day. [applause] One. No. I have to do this. Our next speaker is Dr. Allison Glickman Rogers, Oceanside Middle School Principal. [applause] As a seventh grade student at Oceanside Middle School, Lily Davi has demonstrated how one person's vision can inspire an entire community. for her bot mitzvah project. Inspired by the book linked by Gordon Corman, Lily set an ambitious and meaningful goal to create a paper chain 1.5 million links long representing the 1.5 million children who were murdered during the Holocaust. What began as Lily's personal project quickly became a schoolwide effort. During recess and after school, students gathered

040in the library to help create paper chain links, working together toward this remarkable goal. As they stapled and connected the colorful strips of paper, many students became curious about Lily's project and its significance. They asked thoughtful questions about the Holocaust, the staggering number of children represented by the chain, and the importance of remembering history. The interest led them to explore the library's Holocaust display, browse related resources, and borrow books to learn more. Lily's project transform the library into a place of connection and community. Our school district is proud to recognize Lily for her extraordinary project and the lasting impact it has had and our school community. Congratulations, Lily. [applause] Oh, no. [applause] >> You'll tell her what I said. >> Sorry. Our next speaker is Tara Mau, director of mathematics K through2. Thank you for

041the intro introduction to the stage. [applause] Okay. I'm proud to announce the achievements of our students in mathematics in the following competitions. You're going to go up um to the stage for these. We have every year a Pi Day contest, round Pi Day, which is March 14th, 3.14159. Congratulations to I can't believe it, Henry Whitman of MS, who won the 202526 Pi Day contest by reciting 314 digits of pi accurately. Unbelievable. His teacher, Mr. Daniel Art, if you're here, please come on up to the stage. [applause] All right, our next group of math awards comes from school number four. If their teacher Susan Bruno is here, please join the students on on the stage. We have Anthony Varali, who was the silver pin award and top scorer at school. Number four, [applause] Viva, I apologize,

042Negron. Viva Negron, am I saying it correctly? Jake St. Germaine Wesley McFersonson, Nicholas Campos, and Zoe Chan. [applause] Each year we have students compete in something called an American mathematics competition at the middle school and at the high school level. um students who participated and placed for the American Mathematics Competition in grade 8 or they took the eighth grade, some of them were seventh graders. Um first place at MS was Henry Whitman. [applause] Tied for second place was John Conroy, Maya Curtis, Caleb Elub, and Ava Pegnatada. [applause] Tied for third place was Ana Cook, Emma Dal, and Isa Prennav. [applause] At OHS, we have an AMC 10, which is for 9inth and 10th grade students. First place was tied, Tabitha Brew, and Sebastian Adelman. [applause] Second place went goes to uh Kaden Brown. [applause] And

043third place for the AMC 10 is Brandon Auanaga. [applause] The AMC 12 is for 11th and 12th grade students to participate. First place went to Joel and Gelatude. [applause] Second place tied was Alexia Carpacus and Richard Wang. [applause] Third place went to Katherine Isabella Martin. [applause] Um, I think we'll take a picture with just that for right now and then we're going to have we You want me to do all of them? >> Yes. Okay, they're saying yes. Okay. Um, this year for the first time we had students participate in something called the first in math competition. It was a New York State competition that took place March 19th. And for the it was our first time and we had students place in our eighth grade level. They won $1,000 and they're going to the

044state with me. We're traveling to Albany um on Friday and they're competing on Saturday with the possibility of bringing back $5,000. So this is very exciting. Um so the students have trophies and Dr. Christensen's helping me hand them out. Um so coming up and get your trophy. We have um Jason Skirnik, Elias Aracina Estz, [applause] Isabella Deluso, Salvatore Corso, [applause] and Elliot McFersonson. Congratulations. Their teachers are Allison Krider and Angela Melissa. If they're here, please join us on the stage. [applause] The teachers, if you're here, please report to the stage. As per Mr. Moresca, >> any parent that wants to come up to take a picture, come to the front, take a picture. This is your night tonight. So, don't be afraid to come up here and take a picture of your child. I do

045have one more. >> Okay, I'm so sorry I left out Kadoyo. We do have more math awards and I don't know how I can leave this out. So, we did have students participate in a hackathon, the Long Island Hackathon this year. We had a sixth grade team and a middle school team. So, these students please join everyone up on the stage. I do apologize. From school number two, Ava Rahm Such Wesley McFersonson and Gabriella Garcia [applause] from school number three. Matthew Se Aolo. [applause] I think Leslie was from school number four. Did I mess that up? I think I did. School number five, Sebastian Lee and Kai Lachinski. School number eight, Ashley Yang. And school number nine E, Daniel Senov. [applause] That is our sixth grade hackathon team from across the district. And then our

046middle school team, we had students, eight students participate from our middle school. I'll read the names, maybe we clap at the end. Ryan James, Adam Hassan, Austin Candela, James Katsulus, Joshua Benson, Henry Whitman, Lucas Renarin, and Misha Buouan. Please join everyone on the stage. If their advisors or coaches are here, please join them on the stage. Michelle Gamash, Michael Polalmo, Juliana Capelli, Sonia Carmaly, No Glass, Sheila Gunther, Nicole Clearary, John Herren. Anyone here? No. >> All right. Thank you. Thank you. [applause] take away fine. I don't need Congratulations to all. [applause] Our next speaker is Mr. Mitch Bikman, director of social studies. Thank you for win. Ty, are we clear? Good. Good evening. The Cornell Model United Nations Conference is an annual high school model UN conference held at Cornell University. Corn Cornell model United

047Nations encourages awareness about international issues through high level discussion and debate in a wide array of historically geographically and topically diverse committees attracting delegates from across the United States, Canada, South Africa, China, and elsewhere around the globe. To say the next set of students did well at this competition would be an understatement. So, please hold your applause until I announce all of our award recipients from Cornell University's Model UN. Receiving the awards of best delegate this year, Anthony Battlei, Christian Carbonero, Suana Msad, Abigail Santiago, and Ariana Shaman. [applause] Continuing with our awards, their outstanding delegate award goes to Maxwell Greenberg. [applause] Honorable mentions were received by Quinn Byer and Amelia Chu. [applause] verbal commendation. Brody Center, Aiden Okonnell, Samantha Gella, and Ryan Strowmer. [applause and cheering] In addition, the entire World Entrust Club was honored

048with one of the most prestigious awards in the competition. Again, this competition sees students from across the world, both public and private schools. And this year's Oceanside Mala Congress received the best large delegation. I'd like to bring up the remaining members. Um, and some of these names you might have heard already. Anthony Bmente, Quinn Byra, Joseph Brint, Christian Carbonero, Brody Center, Amelia Chu, Casey Croer, Michael Croer, Samantha Gella, Maxwell Greenberg, Sophia Ken, Kennedy Keegan, Aiden Lieberman, Suana Msad, Cora McCarthy, Gabriella Nateno, Aiden Okonnell, Federica Pstatanis, Carter Quantero, Briana Rak, Daniela Sanchez, Abigail Santiago, Gabrielle Santiago, Ariana Shaman, Ryan Strowmer, Kayla Suarez, Lauren Young, and Sabrina Zindaki, and their adviserss, Mr. Gavin Calner and Mrs. Karen Kazakov. [applause] students in the background. So I can see Congratulations. [applause] >> [applause] >> And as these students walk

049off the stage, these many of these same students also were recognized this year at their um award ceremonies from Harvard University and also Princeton University, previous competitions they competed in this year. Congratulations again, GUYS. [applause] Our next presenter this evening is Dr. David Rose, director of world language and ENL. >> [applause] >> Thank you. Good evening, Boras. It's a great honor to uh read the names of the winners of the many students who participated in the national language exams, competing with students across the country in Spanish, French, and Italian. We have 70 winners in Oceanside. Isn't that great? Thank you. Give them all a round of applause. Okay, we're going to start with the National Spanish Exam for MS. And as I call your name, please come up to the stage either side and we'll

050take a picture. The National Spanish Exam OS MS Gold is Nuralan Ruiz, Matias Ashenburn, Ava Kersh, Madison Molite, Gabriella Opterbach, Briana Ducos, and Miranda Espinosa. Gold medal winners, come on up. [applause] And the silver Aim Dalhaj, Maya Curtis, Madison Naestro, Shelby Dval, Ariana Baptist, Arir Kasimov, Emma Millie, Juliana Shibalio, and Tanya Guerrero. Please come up. Congratulations. Silver winners. The bronze go to Alexander De Palma, Mia Mestro, Isa Pay, Michael Sto, Melanie Marilo, Mate Galves, Escuero, Kaye Baharano, Adriana Corpo, Jesse Strowmer, and Natalia Pelano. I make everybody sound Italian as I [applause] do this. National Spanish Exam OHS gold Cora McCarthy, Emily Qua, Leia Flores, and Silver Christopher Granados, Angelica Cardona Kurama, and the bronze goto. Amelia Chu, Isabella Matut, Briana Rivero Gonzalez, Carlos Cuentes Fernandez, and Adriana Abra Abraham. Their teachers are Christina Castillia Lys,

051Jacel Vargas, Amy Brown, Ran, Patricia Valeraniano, Kelly George, Abigail Ehar, and Gina Smith. If you're here, please join us. >> [applause] >> We're going to now air the national French exam winners. OM silver Brittany Morales, OHS Gold, Suana Massud, OHS Silver, Christian Carbonado and Abigail Santiago. OHS Bronze, Ashley Sparasio, and Alicia Lar Ro. Their teachers are Richard Jenna, Elizabeth Levvengood, and Dr. Angela Must. [applause] And now the national Italian exam winners starting with MS Gold, Carolyn Nelson, Chris Pon, Ava Restivo, Antonio Verdino, Minka Palato, Julana Sherime, Joseph McConnell. Our silver winners, Jenna Jaluso, and Saloso. Our bronze winners, Maddie Quinn, Leah Mhola, Shane Dugen, Juliana Kodaluto, and Krishni Sarju. Congratulations. OHS National Italian Exam gold winners, Caitlyn Vivona, Lacy Rosenberg, Matthew Antonette. Silver winners William Brooks, Jared Eberhart, Laura Srano Solace, Francesca Bottoro, and now

052our bronze winners Michael Sulta, Samantha Gala, Camila Ola, Gabriella, Vakio, Olivia Piron, Anthony Bson, and Justin Romano. Their teachers are Suzanne Valeraniano, Richard Jenna, Dr. Angela Must and Patel, and Bridget Mthor. If you're here, please join us. [applause] Those are all of our world language winners. Let's give them a round of applause. [applause] princess. All right. Hey Gabby. >> [applause] >> Our [applause] next presenter is Dr. Matt Christensen, director of science. Thank you. [crying] >> Thank you, Dr. Ro Felicia atus. So, we're extremely excited that our science research program at OHS is continuing to grow and we were able to compete in many different competitions across the region. Um, as I call up, um, there's going to be a couple names here that are going to be mentioned in a couple different competitions, but I'd

053like to recognize them for all their hard work on their science [music] research projects. So, first off, we competed in the New York State Science and Engineering Fair, and two of our research students uh were deemed semi-finalists. Uh can Suhana Massud and Sabrina Zandaki come to the stage? [cheering] [applause] In addition, we competed at the Sawa uh 11th grade science fair. Uh we had multiple winners and placers here in the biology category. In third place, Danella Sanchez, honorable mention, Ariana Shaman in the behavioral sciences category. In third place, Olivia Hellberg. Honorable mention, Gata Pente, and um Isabella Delgado. In the physical science category, honorable mention, Mark Jordy, Philip Konov, uh Conro, sorry, uh Charles Summers, and Jaden Marada. And last but not least, at the Long Island Science Congress or a common called Lisk. In

054the junior division, we had an award two award winners in biology, Aiden Flannery and Julie uh Julia Blue. And in the senior division, we had Ariana Shaman, Daniela Sanchez, and Sabrina Zandaki. [applause] Congratulations to everybody and all this to the hard work of their dedicated research teacher, Mr. Michael Pepe. [applause] I'm good. Congratulations. [applause] >> Please call up Dr. Andrew Ful, director of media, fine and performing arts. >> Oh my god. >> Good evening. I'm extremely proud to recognize our students and their teachers for their achievements in music and art. Starting with our musicians for all county music from school 9Ee, Julia Balkaran and her teacher, Miss Aaron Dgnen going up for the Long Island String Festival. Our participants from school 2, Ella Basily and Leo Gian Turko, and their teacher, Miss Patricia Hamilton. >>

055[applause] >> from school three, Hugo Levvengood and his teacher, Miss Victoria Burn. [applause] From school four, Elaine McFersonson and John Punzone and their teacher, Mr. Frank Manaskcalo. [applause] from school five, Leah Rampassoon and her teacher, Miss Patricia Hamilton. [applause] From school 8, Juliet Kramer and Milana Burman and their teacher, Miss Victoria Burn [applause] from school 9Ee, Maya Hersleek and her teacher, Mr. Frank Manisco [applause] from Oceanside Middle School, Christopher Langanger and his teacher, Miss Teresa Petra Monaco [applause] from Oceanside High School, Candace Martin and Sabrina Saki and their teacher, Miss Stephanie Stagna. And we had two students selected for the LIU Post Honor Band Festival. Our representatives were Samantha Toladano and Daniela Sanchez. Congratulations to them and their teacher, Mr. Michael Bennet. [applause] Got a little more. >> [applause] >> Next up are honors for

056our artists. First from the for the O uh my goodness the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards from OS. We had multiple winners uh with a gold key, silver key, and honorable mention. Lane Rapaort [applause] with a gold key award. Sophia Bonura [applause] with a silver key award. Michaela Koch and Cooper Levy [applause] with a gold key and silver key. Juliana Yiannatoss with a silver key and honorable mention, Erin Murray. [applause] And with two honorable mentions and a silver silver key, Julieta Boschain. Congratulations to them and their teacher, Miss Nancy Nigro. [applause] in the 2026 Congressional Art Competition, winning second place of everyone in our congressional area. Kennedy Keegan, congratulations to her on her second place win for the entire area. And her teacher, Miss Katherine Theo for the Go Ape exhibition from OHS Cooper Levy

057and Beatatric Misto. Congratulations to them, their teachers, Miss Lanc Nigel, and Miss Danielle Cascarelli. [applause] Next are our exhibitors in the art in the heart exhibit from Oceanside Middle School, Abby Dong, Evelyn Chow, and Eloisa Alberto. Their teachers, Kim Lifenoff, and Kira Sinberg [applause] from Oceanside High School. Samantha Toladano, Vivana Gzi, Jillian Lazu, Alexa Hanier, Caitlyn Punzone, and Aaliyah Arshad. Their teachers, Miss Katherine Theal and Miss Maria Anna. [applause] And in the field of media arts, we had a Teley Award bronze winner. The Teley Awards honor the best television and video work across all screens. The composition receives 13,000 plus entries from throughout the world. And our very own Dominic Antiochia won a bronze medal for his short video final edit. And congratulations to Dominic and his teacher, Miss Ta Tracy Busk. [applause] >> [applause]

058>> Our next speaker is Mr. Tom Leman, director of physical education, health, and athletics. [cheering] [applause] >> I think I got that applause because we are the last group of honors. So, we'll take it what it is for. [cheering] Uh, amazing job to everybody that's in attendance tonight. Um, our first award is the Kates Award. This award is given annually in memory of Brett Kates, a former school 8 student who excelled in physical education. This award goes to Perseus Omeer and Thomas Divine. Please come on up. [applause] Their teachers Jake Spielberg and Dr. Z, will you come up? Zengari. [applause] Congrats, Perry. [applause] All right, we had three conference championship teams this year. uh two in the fall and one in the spring. Um so I'm going to call up the boys bowling team. If

059you're on the boys bowling team, please come on up. I know we have a lot of uh students not in attendance tonight, but I'm going to invite the team up. [applause] >> So we have Anthony Amaruso and Alex Perezweller. Give them a round of applause. [applause] We have Nick Avenensu, Jackson Sherik, Joseph Crosen, JT Hackmeister, Lee Pmpton, Nicholas Maron, Derek McCree, Peter Pott, Ariel Rudy, Michael Salter, and Michael Young. Congratulations. Come on up. [applause] Oh, good. There's the rest of the guys. They're coached by Michael Lowry. >> [applause] >> This is a great group that works hard every single day throughout the winter season. Congratulations. [applause] >> No, I'm ugly. I don't want to write. The next uh conference championship team is our wrestling team. Please come on up if you're part of that wrestling

060team. [applause] What's up? What's going on? All right, we have Nicholas Abrams, Jon Jonas Brown. There you go. Anthony Kagno, Richard Calvo, Nicholas Car, Nicholas Carvajal, Louis Estz, Mark Gourney, Mia Gunder, Maximus Gutman, Kieran Harrington, Liam Harrington, Christopher Ktos, Sha Lubinda, Dominic Misola, Oliver McMurray, Chase Morris, Josh Moskovich, Kanan O'Reilly, Nicholas Scarada, Michael Scott, Evan Seagullen, Matthew Tomkins, and Anthony Troda. Give them a round of applause. They're coached by Brian Schaefelder, Andy Kuba, and Luke Brush. [applause] >> Congratulations, boys. >> And Nia >> [applause] >> All right. Well, I know this team is here. So, our softball team that just uh won the conference, [applause and cheering] left it all on the field in the county championships, please come on up. [applause] >> [applause] [applause] >> They were upset that the season was over. They

061just went to Bachi Habachi and they uh just got here. So, sorry ladies, I blew up your spot. Um, we're going to announce the names. Maggie Burgerer, Haley Bishoff, Riley Brash, Joanna Burn, Lily Shafalo, Alexa Ki, Caroline Fersland, Elizabeth Guyger, Michaela Jenna, Carly Handelman, Amaya Gerado, Lyanna Han, Callie Laere, Tiggan Libitz, Liliana Negroski, Maggie Ntoic, Emma Ryan, Sydney Sher, Caitlyn Tomkins, and they were coached by Carlo Quagliada, Alex Palado, and Pete Kiti. Congratulations ladies on an amazing season, amazing run. [applause] Congratulations on an amazing season. [applause] All right. Now for our all county spring uh honores for flag football. We have seventh grader who played on varsity, Gabriella Ward. Come on up if you're here. >> [applause] >> Gabby was our starting quarterback and third in the county in passing yards as a seventh grader.

062Impressive. Her coaches Brian Gilbert and Mike Lowry. [applause] For girls lacrosse, we had all counties Sydney Abbott and Julia Morrison. Come on up. [applause] They were coached by Ralph Monta, Tina Pumo, and Mia Jud. Our boys across all county was Chase Beer and Luke Miller. If you're here, come on up. Our boy spring track all county was Omari Brutus and Nicholas Cor. Nicholas Cor will represent Oceanside in the state qualifier uh this weekend up in Courtland. They're coached by Mike Kelly and Gary Murker. [applause] And our spring track ball county was Alexa Kasakowski, Erin Murray, and Bella Must who will also represent Oceanside in state qualifiers. [applause] Sorry, Gabby made you stand up there a little long. And our softball, um, I did not mention this when you were up there. So if you're still

063here, Joanna Burm is all county. Caroline Froom is all county. Carly Handleman is all county. And Lyanna Haran was all county. [applause] >> I just wanted them to go back up. >> [applause] >> Good. Congratulations. >> Before we bring up our retirees in conclusion, be resolved at a page in the minutes of this meeting be set aside to record these accomplishments along with continued best wishes for success. Don at Oceanside, New York, this 10th day of June, 2026. Congratulations to the honores and Dr. Harrington be bringing up the retirees and then we can have this little break for refreshments. Dr. Harrington, here we go as we move along. Go Nicks. Where's that guy in a white shirt? >> There he is. [laughter] Thank you all for your kind patience. I know it's a lot, but

064we've got a lot to celebrate and so much to be proud of. But this is uh a special moment and we really indulge uh your patience and your attention to this very important part portion of our board meeting. It's one of the highlights for me. Uh but it's also bittersweet because uh in a few moments we will be acknowledging and in some way saying goodbye to some amazing individuals. So, if I may, tonight we do gather to honor a remarkable group of educators whose dedication, compassion, and commitment have made a lasting impact on our school community. Throughout their careers, they have devoted themselves to nurturing, inspiring, and guiding generations of students. Their influence extends far beyond the classroom. They have been mentors, role models, advocates, and trusted colleagues. Through their hard work and unwavering commitment,

065they have helped shape the lives of countless children and contributed immeasurably to the se success and strength of our schools. While we celebrate their well-earned retirement, we also recognize that they will be greatly missed. The relationships they have built, the knowledge they have shared, and the difference they have made will continue to be felt for years to come. On behalf of the entire school community, I know we thank them for their years of service, their dedication to our students, and the countless ways they've enriched the lives of others. And we do wish them happiness, good health, and many wonderful adventures in the years ahead. I do want to recognize that Miss Gails will be joining me here um as we as we recognize these retirees. She is our vice president of our Oceanside Federation of

066Teachers. And it is really so important to speak about the relationship and partnership we do have, which is why it's so important to me that we share the moment with our U representatives. So, I'm going to call each person up. I do ask you to please join us on the stage for one picture. Um, and I I I'm going to attempt to say hold your applause. So, we'll see how that goes. But we're going to begin with with Bridget Anthor. Bridget has 30 years of service. You can applaud. She's going to be doing a lot of applauding. [applause] Wait. Yes. [cheering] Yes. Great. Bridget, after 30 years of service, she has served as a high school Italian teacher, adviser of the World Language Honor Society, and she also started her career at MS teaching Spanish

067and Italian. >> [applause] >> Dearra Brick Deerra 25 years as a school counselor, the boys and girls tennis coach, and she has served as our PPS mentor in our TAPS program, which is our tenure attainment plan program supporting our newest teachers. Congratulations, Dearra. [applause] >> [applause] >> Amy Brown Rand, 26 years of service. [cheering and applause] She's taught at MS, primarily Spanish, but has also taught ENL. She's worked at Oceanside High School and at school 4. She served at school 9E part-time for several years and for 22 years served as the recording secretary of the OFT. CONGRATULATIONS. [applause] WE'D HEARD HER NAME BEFORE. We heard her name last night at the Scepter Appreciation Awards. Miss Susan Bruno. Miss Bruno has 31 years of service. She started as a substitute and a permanent sub. She became

068a fourth grade teacher at school number three. And we all know she has served as school four for many many years as a teacher in grades three, five and six. >> Congratulations. [applause] >> Christina Castillia Lys, 24 years of service. [applause] Christina has served as a Spanish teacher and also at the middle school as a teacher for 13 years, but she also served his 10 years as our flesh teacher in four of our elementary schools. Congratulations, Christina. [applause] Rosalie Celeste, 28 years of service as a security monitor at schools 9E and 9M. Congratulations, Rosalie. [applause] She comes, as we know, one of the most important positions we have in our district. Congratulations, Rosalie. [applause] After 35 and a half years of service in one elementary school, school number two, Miss Diane Celbertie [applause] >> [applause]

069>> He was the principal at school too. [laughter] She I know. I know. [laughter] >> After 32 years of service at school number eight as a general ed classroom teacher and most recently as one of our mentor coordinators, Ivory Sabrano. [cheering and applause] >> [applause] >> Also at school too, a classroom teacher from in grades three, four, and six after 31 years of service, Linda Tharity. [applause] >> [applause] >> Thank you very much. >> I just realized we have no men up there. I guess they never hired men th those many years ago. I don't know. >> Mr. Mr. He >> Well, yeah. [laughter] >> Oh my goodness. The years keep growing. After 37 years of service, this individual has served as a special education early intervention teacher at the kindergarten center, resource room teacher

070at MS, and most recently for many years at OS in a teacher of special class and ICT. Also has served as a coach in softball, track, and cheerleading. Laurianne Gamella, [applause] >> 24 years of service, also as a amazing special educator um in our Oceanside High School teacher for our uh a students served also as is a resource teacher. She works in our extended school day and homebound instructor and our extended school year coordinator and most importantly too an adviser for our life fit club and our just amazing best buddies club again after 24 years Laura Garlic. [applause and cheering] >> Me neither. I know after 38 and a half years uh and as a music educator as orchestra in particular at schools two and school five for so many years, Miss Patricia HAMILTON [cheering]

071[applause] just an amazing teacher of math and science at the elementary schools, school 9E in particular, 26 years of service, Miss Karen Hannon. [applause] CONGRATULATIONS. SEE, what you don't know is we're getting every single one of these teachers back to substitute teach next year. You got it, Karen. After 20 years of service in the position of school social worker and club adviser of our African-American culture club, our big buddies program, our peer mediation and courageous conversations, and most recently, the amazing OS step team coach and program coordinator for adjusting his and her crown, Miss Rosalyn Johnson. [applause] >> [applause] >> After 23 years of service at OHS, serving as a social studies teacher, also the World Interest Club adviser, you saw her up there before, and our coordinator of a mother daughter dinner. Miss Karen

072Kosakov. [applause] Okay, so I'm really realizing there are no men up there. There really are not yet. After 24 years of service at as a special educator in Oceanside High School, Miss Christine Lane. [applause] After 23 years of service as a speech language pathologist starting in our elementary schools but spending most of her time at Oceanside Middle School, Lori Martinez. [applause] There's really not a man on this list. Impossible. They just aren't here. Oh yes. Thank God. Thank God for him. This special individual gave 32 years of her life to this district. She is an amazing reading teacher. She also was a classroom teacher but took a real risk late on later on in her career and served as one of our amazing teaching and learning coaches. again after 32 years. Miss Andrea Marzano. [applause]

073Thank you so much. Serving at school number four in multiple grades, third, fourth, and sixth grade after 25 years of service. Linda McGrath. [applause] After 31 years of service as a classroom teacher in both schools eight and most of her time at school 2 for 29 years of the 31, Antonet Sundenberg [applause] After 30 years of service as a physical education and health teacher at MS and then most recently in at OS, this individual also served as a district coach for varsity golf, JV basketball, JB volleyball, varsity assistant lacrosse, JV girls lacrosse, seventh and eighth grade girls cross country and seventh grade basketball volleyball. Miss Evelyn SWEENEY [applause] 26 years of service to this community. Kindergarten teacher, a lead teacher, a mentor, and an ENL teacher, Miss Robin Tish. [applause] After 36 years of service,

074an amazing art educator serving a number of our elementary schools as well as our kindergarten center, Miss Jean Marie Toy. [applause] We were so very fortunate to have this person in our district for over 30 years where she served as the teacher of the deaf as well as a speech teacher in really all of our schools districtwide. Miss Tara Tinen. [applause] >> [applause] >> After 34 years of service at OS serving in the role of social studies teacher, also as a building rep and faculty council member, Miss Christine Valentino, 34 years OF SERVICE. [applause] AND I DON'T know how he's going to get to stand with all of these women, but after 27 years of service in our amazing music department, our own Mr. Veter, our our marching band director, concert band, symphonic band, jazz

075band, and also a sound and lighting production. Come on up, Mr. BETTER. [applause] >> OKAY. [applause] We just have a couple of slightly out of alphabetical order. Miss Ellen Barah. After 26 years of service, she served most of her time as a teacher aid at school number five. Miss Ellen Bar. [applause] And finally, last but certainly not least, it is my dear, dear privilege to also recognize my partner here, Miss Donna Gails. Donna has served this community for over 30 years. [applause] She's been a classroom teacher for 26 of those years in grade six. She's a phenomenal grade six teacher. But as I also me and you saw that she was with our student council reps and our helping hands club. She's was instrumental in bringing the Ryan Patrick O'Shea foundation for me mental health

076awareness sources of strength which is a huge program in both os and OS to our district serving again over 36 years. And I will, it's worth repeating also mention that she's held a union leadership position for so many years serving as representatives and also not as the elementary VP, but most recently executive vice president. And what a teammate and a colleague to have. So congratulations, Miss Gail. [applause] So ladies and gentlemen, you've been very patient. How about that one rounding applause for all of our retirees? [applause] >> [applause] [applause] >> and Dr. inheriting with quick calculations 814 hours >> years rather 814 years [applause] >> hours everybody's invited for some refreshments in the cafeteria we will be taking a fiveminut break five minutes This ones after me. Congratulations. I still getting so much. >> Congratulations.

077Thank you so much. Congratulations on all your awards. Sure. >> I do remember. >> Yeah, you said you're her favorite, right? without the Let's go say hi. >> Okay. >> I wish you all the best. Enjoy your grandchild. >> Sorry. Sorry about that. sweetie. >> Hello Congratulations. >> Thank you. >> How you doing? >> Pretty good. How are you? >> Yeah, they said model congress. I started laughing. >> Congratulations. >> Excellent job. Congratulations, Johnson. [laughter] >> Who was Mike? Dad be by the cookies. of course. >> I'll follow you. Good job. down or actually no right through those. >> Hi, I'm the best. And they're so much fun with me. They call me Henny. >> You're on. >> I'm smart. It's a full package. >> I mean, really, like model. >> I don't wear this

078to school. This is just me. >> Don't sell yourself. The idea of the yearbook of it is she wanted on Tuesday. >> Yes, >> I'm in. I'm in. Yeah. Oh, everyone's out. Very nice. Very nice. I missed them. Bring some of the things from >> Yeah. Yeah. I got there uh at 12:00. Great. Signed 100 yearbooks. Felt like uh Bono, you know, walking into Wembley Stadium or something. >> No, I can't actually. Andrew for camp the next morning was like all boys camp. My brother-in-law went to my wife went to the sister camp. >> Yeah. He'll be going into third grade. >> Yeah. His Spanish teacher is actually retiring. So they um they did demo lessons in his class. Yeah. There was a new teacher and like all the principal and I was like yeah

079that's like what >> we're going to be starting in 30 seconds. So if you're going to be able to take a seat, take a seat. >> David Dr. Dr. Rose is going to start film going to start off with. >> You're going to you're un um right now we're on Jay International Trips. So, Dr. Harrington and Dr. Rose. Dr. Harrington. >> Yes. Thank you so much, Mr. D. So the board at as part of its routine business at item for action will be accepting a number of international trips uh that we are considering and I'm going to ask Dr. Rose to do a little brief very brief explanation of those trips since a number of them are brand new to Oceanside schools. >> Thank you Dr. Harrington. Good evening everyone. As you know, Oceanside has

080a long tradition of offering educational travel opportunities to students dating back many decades, long before I started here over 20 years ago. These experiences extend learning beyond the classroom and provide students with firsthand exposure to different cultures, languages, histories, and environments. In recent years, uh, international travel opportunities have generally been limited to one trip a year. As a district, we have been exploring ways recently to expand these offerings and provide more students with the opportunity to travel abroad. To that end, we are excited to offer not one but four international travel opportunities next year. All of these trips will be offered in partnership with EF Educational Tours with whom we've worked before. They are recognized leader and experiential student travel programs. We'll start with Japan scheduled for February 2027. OHS students will set off for

081Japan and explore Tokyo, Kyoto, and the surrounding areas while learning about Japanese history, language traditions, and contemporary culture. We have over 30 students who've already signed up for Japan. We're really excited about that. During April break 2027, and this is a first for, we are going to Iceland, one of my favorite places, by the way. I've been twice. The program includes glacier hiking, waterfalls which are absolutely spectacular, black sand beaches, geothermal sites, of course, the city of Recuic and the Blue Lagoon with a focus on environmental science, renewable energy, and Iceland Icelandic culture. It is a magnificent uh place to visit. And Dr. The Glickman already has over 20 students, I believe, signed up for next year. Also scheduled for April break 2027, OHS is going to Costa Rica. This trip immerses students in one

082of the world's most biodiverse environments through visits to rainforest, volcanoes, and coastal ecosystems. Students will gain firsthand experience with environmental science, conservation, sustainability, and Costa Rican culture. Also, over April break 2027, we call this the Sound of Music tour. Ocean Ocean Oceanside High School students will have the opportunity to travel through Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary. Highlights include visiting Mozart's birthplace and exploring sites connected to the film The Sound of Music. I've done that tour. It's a great tour. Currently, seven students are enrolled and we are hoping for more. Additional participants are welcome. Our district's long-standing trips to Italy and France and Spain have not been discontinued, although you don't see them up there. That's because going forward we are going to rotate rotate our trips to provide students with greater variety. These international travel

083opportunities are largely self- sustaining programs resulting in minimal financial impact on the school district. So that's important to note. And in most cases, enrollment of approximately 12 students is required for a trip to run. As we expand our offerings in the future, we will continue to pursue creative funding opportunities to make these experiences even more affordable and increase access for more students. I'd be happy to take any questions from the board. Thank you. seeing them. Dr. Rose, thank you so much for that presentation and it's always nice that we brought back our international trips and the students definitely come back with plenty of stories to say. So, thank you so much for that. >> My pleasure. Thank you. >> Any members of the board have any questions for Dr. Rose? >> No. Okay. Thank you,

084Dr. Rose, Dr. Harrington. Uh, right now on uh uh 5A, which is um public input, opportunity to comment on agenda items only. At this time, the board will hear public comments on items appearing on tonight's agenda only. This will be an opportunity to comment on matters not on tonight's agenda later in the meeting. Although New York State Law does not require board of education to hold public comments on agenda items, this board chooses to do so because we value community input regarding matters under consideration. Please keep in mind that public comment is an opportunity for the board to listen. It's not intended to be question answer session. Speakers are generally limited to three minutes. Comment should be directed towards the chair of the meeting, which is me. Participation in public comment is limited to residents

085of the school district or individuals designed to speak on behalf of district organizations. Anyone who wishes to speak should come up to the microphone now. Clearly state your name and your residency or your district affiliation. Seeing none, we are on 6A and that's I need a motion to accept the minutes of the May 16th regular meeting. The file is submitted. >> Motion. >> I'll take it from Stu. >> Second and set. Any questions or comments? All in favor? Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion passes. Uh 6B. Take a motion to accept minutes of the May 19, 2026 annual budget vote and election meeting for file is distributed. >> I'll make a motion. >> Sandy, >> I second. >> And Laura, any questions or comments? All in favor? I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion passes. A

086motion to accept the financial reports, treasury reports, and transfer of funds as submitted. >> Move it. Done. >> Second. Bob and Don. Bob and Don. Any questions or comments? All in favor? I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion passes. D. I'll take a motion to approve risk operation center, which is the R uh OC access uh for learning student data privacy consortium, the education cooperative to negotiate an approved ed 2D uh compliant DPDA as outlined. >> Uh take a motion. Motion >> still >> second. >> Any questions or comments? All in favor? I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion passes. 7A. Approval to accept donations first in um $1,000 prize for the Oceanside Middle School qualifying for the statewide mathemat mathematical tournament. >> I'll make a motion. >> That's going to be Sandy and Laura.

087Any questions or comments? All in favor? I. >> Any opposed? Any abstension? Motion passes. Approval for use in the facilities Oceanside PLA Lacrosse. >> Motion >> Bob >> second >> and done. Any questions or comments? All in favor? >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion passes. >> 8A. I'll take a motion to approve professional personnel recommendations as submitted. >> Motion. >> Still second. >> Seth. Any questions or comments? >> All in favor? >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion passes. >> Mr. Just quickly, I just would like to now officially congratulate our new Oceanside Castleton principal, Mr. Well Hennessy, and our new associate principal at OS, Mr. Eddie Risner. [applause] Congratulations. I'll take a motion to approve the civil service personnel recommendations as submitted. >> I'll make a motion. >> It's going to be Sandy. >> I

088second. >> And Laura. Any questions or comments? All in favor? >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion passes. How we doing, Justin? Dr. Harrington, anything. Okay. Uh 8 C. I'll take a motion to to approve the hourly employee recommendation as submitted. >> I'll move it. >> I'll get Bob. >> Second. >> And Don. Any questions or comments? All in favor? I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion passes. >> I'll take a motion to approve the reappoint of probationary personnel. Recommendations as submitted. >> Motion. >> Stu. >> Second. >> Said. Any questions or comments? All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion passes. Motion to approve the DACA employees recommendations are submitted. >> Motion. >> Sandy. >> A second. >> Laura. Any questions or comments? All in favor? >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion

089passes. We're on 8F. The 2020 Motion to approve the 202526 co-curriculum new appointment updates. >> I'll move it. Bob second. >> And Don. Any questions or comments? All in favor? >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion passes. 9A. Recommendation of the CSC CPSE chairperson as submitted. >> Take a motion. >> Motion. >> Still and Seth. Any questions or comments? All in favor? Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion passes. We're on 10A. A motion toward a bid for bread products for the 2627 school year. Motion. Motion. >> A second. >> Sandy and Laura. Any questions or comments? All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion passes. 10B. Motion to approve a contract amendment between the Oceanside Union Free School District and Samantha Senakore, the business administrator. Take a motion. >> I'll move it up and

090Don. Any questions or comments? All in favor? I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion passes. and a motion to authorize and reaffirm the district's reserve accounts. >> Take a motion. >> Motion. >> Still second >> and set. Any questions or comments? All in favor? >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion passes. Justin, how are we doing? >> And we're on 10 E >> D. I'm sorry, I was looking at D. A motion to approve 2627 updated student overnight trips. >> Motion. >> Sandy, >> a second. >> Laura, any questions or comments? All in favor? >> I. Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion passes. Now we're on 10E. Motion to approve accepting the updated letter to make part of the record already submitted to the board of education. >> I'll move it. >> Bob second. >> And done.

091Any questions or comments? All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Any abstensions? Motion passes. I'll take a mo I'll take a motion to destroy all ballot uh cast spoiled ad unused uh spoiled and unused on a May 20th 2025 annual district budget vote and election >> motion >> second >> and set any questions or comments all in favor. >> Any opposed abstensions? Motion passes. I take an MA memo of agreement between Oceanside Union Free School District and the Teachers AIDS chapter of the Oceanside Federation of Teachers. >> I move it. >> S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S Sandy >> I

092second >> and Lauren. Uh any any any questions or comments and all in favor? I any opposed? Any abstensions? >> Motion passes. 111A opportunity for the superintendent of schools, Dr. Harrington. >> Yes, thank you. I will be brief. It's been a long night. Thank you all so much for your patience. But of course, I hope you share uh the same amount of pride uh and joy that I did u recognizing not only our amazing students, but also of course our retirees. Uh the only thing I can't believe I'm saying is that this is our last official board meeting of the year. The times just continue to go so very quickly and and um I want to again reiterate um and and thank the board for their trust in me and giving me the opportunity to

093serve this amazing district. There are so many highlights uh that I can point to, but I do have to just take a quick moment to mention one that was so very special to me, and that was the recent opportunity to watch our marching band and the Thesbsians uh parade down Main Street at Disney. It was a it was an opportunity that they earned uh because of their performance and um I know that they were there participating in a number of different workshops and we got to watch a few of them personally. It was very special for them, but there was nothing like watching those kids march down with their banner um celebrating Oceanside um Oceanside High School. So, it was a goal that I had personally and professionally and I'm just so very happy that

094we were able to fulfill that goal. It really was a special highlight. Uh with that being said, you heard so many amazing things earlier by our own students. I never want to repeat their words. Just so much going on. And I guess I will conclude by saying I just wish everyone an amazing, happy, but most importantly healthy summer season. Can't believe I'm saying that, but I am. So, thank you all. >> Thank you, Dr. Harrington. 12A. This is the board of education report. I'd like to start off by saying that uh as we get to this time of the year, people may think that it's a summer and maybe things can be a little can relax a little bit. Well, you might probably wrong because if you ask Michelle VA, who's our assistant superintendent of

095HR that came in two months ago, her staff is running around between all the retirees that you just saw and new personnel that's going in. So, their department is going really wild. We're closing the books for this year and already starting to review the budget for the 26 27 year. This spring we had 21 spring concerts, band obligations as well as fall schedules and we thank Dr. uh Andrew Frey for that and continue in all our concerts, baseball, softball, lacrosse, flag football, track, field, and I'm probably missing a few. And we thanks athletic director Tom Leman, who I guess I don't even think goes home. I think he sleeps on the field. Last week we had the varsity awards, honor awards, art awards, science awards, and many more awards ceremonies. Not to mention, we used

096we used to have a softball and a baseball field, but now we have an athletic complex, especially with the new track starting in in July. construction at the new auto shop with a state-of-the-art equipment as well as five new classrooms at the high school and five new classrooms at the kindergarten center. The gym's getting air conditioning and new bathrooms going as well as new glass blocks in the hallway. None of this can get done without the support of each and every voter in Oceanside. Dr. Kley, Mark Matron, the entire staff of building grounds keep this district going in great shape. With 10 campuses, we have a lot of buildings and a lot of grass to cover. I can't say enough about Mark and his team of of men that just don't stop. >> I can't

097say enough about our with Gavin Kerma and his team at the helm. We don't have an education without our teachers. And I believe we have the best, most intelligent, most kindness, most loving, and most caring. And if you don't believe it, go look at the magic they do with our children every single day. Our teachers aids, lunch monitors, and our security team led by Shan Shy. These are the best keeping our children safe. Nothing moves in this district without the PTAs. They are champions and dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly with their building principles and students. So, please make sure you thank them every chance you get. Finally, nothing gets done without our great CEO. Our CEO in this district is Dr. Harrington. Her team of central administrators, principal, and chairpeople give the district 100%. This

098woman works 24 hours a day, seven days a week for this district. I know under Dr. Haritan's leadership and guidance. She has taught me a lot. I'd venture to say that the children in this district are in a much better place under her leadership. Mr. Blau reminded me two years ago that in 1958 Tom Featherstein Senior Gavin, stop laughing because you sat through it two years ago. He retired after So, so this guy Tom Featherstein Senior who retired 24 years after being on the board of education, he remained the president for 22 years. In the past 68 years, we haven't had a president serve more than two years. This is my second year as president of board of education. Most districts don't allow this practice, and the New York State Board of Educa Board Association

099doesn't recommend this practice, but I believe this has worked well for this district. As I move forward, I am honored to follow the tradition of serving two years. Boy, did that go quick. I remember Sandy saying to me in July of 24, "If I screw up, she was going to kill me. >> [laughter] >> I want to believe I saved Sandy from getting a felony rap for not killing me and hope I've made her proud. I want to thank my fellow board members for their love and support during my tenure. There were times I thought I was I wasn't in a worthy of this position. But with the support of the entire administration and staff, you guys made me look good and I thank you for that. Finally, I want to thank my wife for

10044 years, my three children who live in Oceanside, and my five grandchildren who attend this Oceanside school district. I have a lot invested into this community, into these teachers and the school district. This time of year, all our buildings a buzzer. We're moving up ceremonies at the elementary schools, middle schools, and high school along with the casting graduations. All the PTAs have retirement parties for our retirees and closing the year. I want to thank you for allowing me to be your president and continuing my my position as trustee of this board of education. With that being said, I will open this up to my fellow board members. And last but least, let's go Nick Knicks. Okay, [applause] Stu, it's hard to follow that. You know that. Okay. Um just uh two items that I have

101on my list. uh you know this this is the time as it's already been said of so many awards and celebrations retirees people that work here the students and the incred varsity awards you've gone to honors nights and so many celebrations but two things I wanted to bring up and I know Dr. Harrington has already mentioned it. The marching band. Um, congratulations to our outstanding marching band students on their memorable performance at Walt Disney World this past May, marching down Main Street with pride, professionalism, and excellence. Their dedication, countless hours of practice, and commitment to their craft were on full display, proving that hard work truly pays off. Kudos also to our Thespian students who travel to support their peers and participate in many workshops. And of course to the parents whose unwavering encouragement and

102tireless fundraising efforts help make this incredible experience possible. And of course always to the faculty and administrators who continuously support and provide guidance to all our students. This achievement was a true reflection of their talent, teamwork and spirit of our entire school community. One other item. I went last night to the SEPTA Awards. I think that was my first time going. And I got to tell you, the Septter Awards night was a heartfelt celebration honoring staff members who consistently go above and beyond for our students as families shared powerful stories of compassion, dedication, and support. There were very few dry eyes in the room. These exceptional individuals make a lasting difference in the lives of students and their families, creating memories and impacts that will be cherished and remembered for years to come. Thanks to

103everybody. They did terrific work and we should be proud of all the accomplishments of these kids. >> Thank you, Mr. Kaplan. Mr. Brown, >> thank you. Uh Mr. Dembrosio, um two years does go by very quickly. Um, I have to say you you filled in his shoes very very nicely over that period of time and it it it's been a pleasure. Um, Brian Rusco, uh, it's you've been a true asset to be sitting up here with us for this past year and thank you for your time and your attention and all your efforts and of course wishing you nothing but the best next year on Courtland and a a great future in education or wherever life may take you. I know it was mentioned um honors night earlier. Um while a lengthy evening and I

104think I've said this in the past, one of the things I like most about honors night is how nicely it combines our community's past with its future. Many of those honors or those awards or recognitions acknowledge the memory of former Oceanside residents, some students, staff members, um, and just members of our school district. And it takes the memory of those people and it intertwines with our graduating seniors who are going on to the next chapter in life. And it just it very nicely um connects the two together and it it it's it's a great opportunity to remember the past but also look forward to the future. To Bob and Don, while you may not think much, um believe it or not, 24 years is quite a threshold in Oceanside. Well, getting getting beyond the 24

105years because up until Maryanne Lera in the history of our school district, we only had three people that had served exactly 24 years and then Maryanne went before. So, it it it it is quite quite a small group of people that have put in the time and dedication over those years. So, um, it, you know, it's not just the years, it's really the time and and all the efforts that you've put in over that course of time. So, that's not to be overlooked. And, uh, lastly, uh, you know, I I couldn't conclude the year without giving some kind of a brief historical acknowledgement. Um, as we close the 2526 school year, this year happens to mark an important milestone in the history of our school district. While the school district itself was originally established in

1061812 and became a Union Free School District in 1899, over the course of time, our schools continued to evolve along with the growth of our community itself. This year marks an important milestone in the history of the school district. While the district um I'm sorry, in 19 the 1920s overall were a period of tremendous growth and change in Oceanside at the time the farms that were here were being sold and subdivided and new homes were first being built. The population was growing rapidly and the enrollment pressures soon followed. So in 19 1920 itself the district started with one single school building and by the end of that decade it had grown to five and following in that decade following several public referenda and um along with Island Park which at the time made its own

107decision to secede from from the school district. Oceanside embarked on a major expansion of its educational infrastructure and most notably that led to the the the construction of schools three, four, and five. But that's not the milestone. Do you know what the milestone is? >> I'd like to know what the milestone. >> I'll tell you what the milestone is. So the milestone um which is connected to all that is probably one of the least remembered today, but probably one of the most consequential. In 1926, the community received authorization to appoint its own superintendent of schools for the very first time. And we appointed S. Taylor Johnson, who had been the supervising principal that was here. And this was an important step in the district's evolution as a growing and increasingly complex school system. So although

108not widely known today, it does represent the important point that we hit and over the past century only 11 individuals have served in that role and that starts from as Taylor Johnson in 1926 to Dr. Harrington today. So 11 superintendent in a hundred years which is an average tenure of more than nine years for each person. And as as we're aware in a profession where leadership turnover can often be frequent that that statistic reflects a century of stability, continuity, and commitment to the public education in Oceanside. And that's the milestone that's worth recognizing and something that we can all be proud of. Um, I said that was going to be my conclusion, but I'd like to I' I'd like to uh also wish all our pending retirees good health, happiness, and best wishes for all

109their future endeavors. And I know we're looking forward to a great end of school year. And I'd like to wish everyone a wonderful summer. >> Thank you, Mr. Blau. Mr. Schol ditto. [laughter] There's nothing left to say. Ditto. >> Um, good. >> I I I do want to just wish it's been a busy month and I want to congratulate all the students that we honored. Brian, I wish you the best. We're going to miss you. Uh, come back and visit. I see Dennis all the time and tell him to come back and visit, but he doesn't listen to me. >> But that's nothing new. Um, I want to uh wish our retirees the best. Thank you for a wonderful year. To our central administrators, Dr. Harrington, uh, to our OFT, to our teachers, to our

110staff, uh, and to our students have all done, you know, wonderful things and made it a really great school year. And last but not least, Michael, thank you for protecting me and keeping me out of prison. [laughter] Job well done. Thank you so much, Sandy and Laura. >> Can I really just say ditto? >> Okay. [laughter] >> Yeah. No, it's been a long night, but um I do want to just congratulate all the honores. Um, of course, wishing our all the teachers who retired all the best. Brian, we're going to miss you. You were great. And um thank you, Mike. You're not too bad yourself. >> Thank you. And Mr. Transom. Well, I think it's all been said and I guess I've got to I want to thank my colleagues for doing what they did

111to me tonight. I'm not too I don't like to receive awards in public. I just like to do things. But, uh, I really want to thank you. It meant a lot. Uh, Brian, good luck in the future. I know I'm going to see you hopefully this week. Uh, and everybody in the audience, thanks for being here tonight. Thanks be thanks for being involved. To the retirees, thanks for the What was it, Mike? 886 something day uh years of service. >> I kept the count. 814 >> 814 years of service. >> Count. >> Yeah. >> I was wondering what you were doing asking everybody how many years. How many years? >> I kept count on it. Pretty good. Okay. Uh I >> I'm not going to argue with our teacher over there. Short. >> I wish

112everybody the best summer that we possibly can have and I yield the floor to Mr. Moresca. >> All I can say is F. I mean uh it's nice going last and I have to uh ditto a lot of things that were said. I just want to point out a few things on that I have on my list. First of all, a congratulations again to all the honores and the awards that they received and the recognition and to the retirees. I mean, it's really when you think of the quality of individual that is retiring and the number of years they put in to work with our students and what they've done for many of our students. My hats off to them and I wish them good health and happiness to their families to their families uh

113throughout their retirement and always. And uh Brian, it's been a pleasure sitting next to you. My knowledge of technology hasn't really grown that much. But I want to say thank you because every time I lose what I think I should have on the screen, there comes Brian. He clicks it right in. He's been a dynamite young man to work for. And to you, I want to wish you the very best in your future endeavors. And also, uh, I'll see you at graduation. remember say hello because you know sometimes I forget. And the last thing is I've had the pleasure of of seeing all the concerts, the elementaryaries, the middle school and the high school concerts and it it's unbelievable the quality of performances. The only one I missed was school number eight because there was

114a conflict and I miss seeing that young man 6' 3 in or 6'4 playing trumpet >> with the band throughout the concert. But my congratulations to the teachers and to the students and to the administrators, but especially I mean again as I say the students for the quality of performance and that symphonic concert at the high school I mean it's like being on a Broadway. It's unbelievable the quality of of sound and performance. And uh I want to thank Andrew uh Dr. Andrew Fry Gold and his two assistants Jennifer Ayello and Victoria Garrett for their valuable assistance for making arrangements for all these concerts and to everyone here. Uh I want to wish you the very best health and happiness this summer and hopefully we'll see you in September. God bless. >> Thank you. Don

115Brian, you want to bring it home? You got the last word. Wow. Thank you. Uh, yeah. I would just like to say thank you one more time and I just want to let all you guys know that you guys have set the standards very high for me and I aspire to be where you guys are one day and the kind of people that you are. Thank you. >> Thank you, Brian. Thank you. [applause] Now, we'll move to public comment on non-aggenda items. This is the opportunity for district residents or individuals authorized to speak on behalf of district organizations to address the board regarding matters not included on tonight's agenda. Although New York State law does not require board of education to provide a public comment period, this board chooses to do so because we value

116hearing from members of our school community. Public SC public comment is an opportunity for the board to listen. While you are encouraged to share your thoughts, public comment is not intended to be a question and answer session. If a question can be addressed briefly, then we will do so. Otherwise, the appropriate district personnel will follow up as necessary. Please direct all comments to the chair. Please remember that the board cannot and will not discuss matters related to to specific students, employees, or other confidential matters in public. Speakers are generally limited to three to three minutes. If you wish to address the board, please approach the microphone, state your name, and identify your resident or district affiliation. At this particular time, would anybody like to come up to the mic? Yes, ma'am. If you can state

117your name, please in child school. >> Tammy Newman, school two. >> Good. Thank you for coming. >> Dr. Harrington and members of the board. My name is Tammy Newman. I'm a resident and parent in this district and I'm the author of the email that was sent to Dr. Harington and subsequently posted on social media. I have copies in case anyone missed it. In summary, a swastika was found several months ago at school, too. An incident that was severe enough to be reported to the police. I did not learn about this incident until May 6th when I was picking up my child from an afterchool program. I heard it casually mentioned by an 11year-old, not from the district. My reaction was intense as the mere mention of a swastika carries enormous weight to my family and

118community. This all happened in front of my child, his peers, and their parents. On May 13th, I emailed Dr. Harrington to express my profound dismay that this hate crime was hidden from the community. I received a generic dismissive reply stating my input was appreciated. Prominent organizations including the Anti-Defamation League, the Holocaust Museum Education Department and Stand with us have reached out to the district regarding this matter and they were met with the same type of stonewalling. I should also mention that I called Mr. Damrosio and he responded with an email saying he received my email which I never sent. The only person here who has responded to me was Mrs. Marone and Miss Privado. How is it acceptable that a swastika a symbol of hate, terror, and violence is concealed from the families who entrust

119their children to your care? Sweeping hate under the rug does not make our schools safer. It emboldens perpetrators and leaves students vulnerable. Since publishing my email, I have heard from parents at schools number three, number eight, 9M, and the high school who related other anti-semitic occurrences. When a hate crime is treated as a public relations issue, you send a message that protecting the district's image matters more than the safety of our children and their teachers. I am asking the board to answer for this lack of transparency. Will you commit to implementing an official policy that mandates immediate community notification when bias related incidents occur in our schools. Transparency and accountability are not optional. Our children deserve better and the community has a right to know what is happening. Thank you for your time. So, I'd

120like to respond by saying that this board of education is aware of the incident referenced and the action taken by school administration in response. We acknowledged that there was a SWAT sticker created by an elementary school student that was discovered in the hallway at school, too. Upon learning of this incident, school administrators acted promptly and decisively to address the matter. While we understand that some members of the community believe broader communications regarding this incident should have occurred at that time, we want to emphasize that the decision-making process was guided by several important considerations, many of which involve confidential student and personnel matters that cannot be publicly discussed. Nevertheless, this board of education along with all district administrators staff remain steadfast in its commitment to fostering a safe inclusion and respectful learning environment. We maintain zero

121tolerance for hate, bigotry, discrimination, or any form of intolerance. And we work diligently to install these values in our students through education, dialogue, and ongoing support. Dr. Harrington, is there anything you'd like to add? Now, I just want to reiterate what Mr. Diamzo is saying. Uh, we hear you and your concerns are were and are taken very much into consideration and I recognize that that the information that you were given did not meet your expectations. That fully is understood. uh you have my commitment, the board has my commitment that we continue, we will continue to take all of these matters as we have and as we will continue to do very very seriously. The the manner in which you expressed how this particular incident um you you reacted to will absolutely you have my word

122be taken into consideration uh if if if unfortunately in incident like this should occur again. But um again as was stated decisions were made uh within the context of the of this particular situation like we do with every incident that occurs. Nevertheless, your um your uh your your sentiments will most definitely be taken into consideration as we move forward and I and I know that you had opportunities to speak to other members of our faculty who tried to help um with some understanding of that. So, but we appreciate it and um you have our commitment in that regard. >> No, no, not at unless you want to do that. >> I'd like to There was there was some there was question about our curriculum and the kinds of things that we do in our district.

123Um I know that there were a couple things that were honored this night tonight that I think address some of what we um are are very clearly part of our curriculum, but I thought it would make sense with Mr. D. Ambrosio's permission uh to ask Miss Pavito, our assistant superintendent who leads the curriculum as well as Mr. Bikman who I know has had conversations with some um but we'd like to you know be a little bit more public and direct about that to ask them to um to sort of uh in interject and explain some highlights of course of what we of what we do in terms of our curriculum. Miss Prito, would you like to begin? >> Oh certainly. Thank you Dr. Harrington. Thank you to our community members. Thank you to the board

124for allowing me to speak on the education of our children. It certainly is a topic that I enjoy doing. Um so to the question of what we teach, first I really do want to reassure all our families that we work um diligently to foster thoughtful, respectful, civically responsible citizens in that our curriculum isn't a oneanddone. We don't do a single lesson, a single moment. In fact, we cultivate a K through 12 curriculum in which children um are informed through an age appropriate way and a standards approach. We do start at the earliest of ages. At the earliest of ages, we we teach belonging and empathy and respect. And we do that through a windows and mirrors approach. mirrors where students get to see themselves and their cultures and their traditions represented in the classroom in

125our coursework and then windows where they get an opportunity to learn about other cultures and other traditions and diversity and then that's celebrated and appreciated. The lessons continue as they grow and the historical context comes into play that historic the historical facts come um through human rights um that includes anti-semitism that includes the Holocaust that includes global um genocides as well as concrete language to recognize prejudice. We want our children to be critical thinkers. We want them to recognize bias. We want them to learn to be upstandards. So when they see that somebody's being targeted or or there is um uh any hateful language, words or symbols, they speak up. And I will tell you that does happen. Now I I'm going to speak about the reality. We know that we expose our students across

126their entire educ educational journey to meet these goals. Um, but we can't control what students learn outside of our school walls. And so when a hateful comment or a harmful action is taken, we act firmly and concisely. We also work with parents because that's what really matters is that partnership in order to cultivate our students in in the way that we want them to be as citizens. And we also go beyond the proactive lessons to do lessons that help to teach allow students to um reflect reflect on their actions make amends for their actions restore. So um I do know that I'm speaking a little more conceptually and I we do have of course our social studies director here. I do want to make mention that this does not get taught in isolation in a

127single content. However, history is a through line and our expert to that and the person who cultivates the work that we teach our children um is here. So, Mr. Bickman, if you don't mind, I'd like to pass it to you to expand on what I've just shared. >> Sure. >> Thank you. Um so, I'd like to just uh share a little a few thoughts about um what Miss Pvita just said and and really for the entire community both that are here tonight and uh those that might be watching via the stream about how comprehensive our Holocaust education is. Um, most importantly, and I think everyone would agree with this sentiment that education is the antidote to hate and we take this work very seriously. Um, our Holocaust education follows a New York State framework where

128we first introduce a culture of belonging at the elementary level. Um, we actually get into the teaching of the Holocaust in grades five and six through some of the literature and novels we read that are interdisciplinary between both English and social studies. But the heart of the work we do with regards to Holocaust education really happens at the middle level. Starting in grade seven and especially in grade eight, our students have um a deep dive into Holocaust education where many of our students are exposed to the novel Knight. We bring in a number of community organizations and I think that's at the heart of Oceanside's work here. We partner with the Anti-Defamation League. We work very closely with the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center and I have been in touch with them throughout this year.

129Um, I actually recently had the opportunity to do a podcast with them about this work as well. Um, and with regards to that too, we look to bring in Holocaust testimonials. So, for my entire 20 plus year time here in Oceanside, we've brought in Holocaust speakers each of those years at multiple levels. In addition to that, we have the opportunity every year to bring in a play called Voices from the Fire, um, which um, our students and have an opportunity to answer questions um, about this time period of a young girl growing up in Germany at this time. And then we further that education as the kids move through the high school. Also at the middle level we have a socialized workshop a course that used to be called human relations. And within that course

130we really take a deep dive into lessons directly from the ADL and facing history on symbols of hate and some of the other things that parents were discussing tonight and Miss PvTO also mentioned. At the high school level, we also look at genocide from multiple um multiple genocides which is also in the curriculum uh that cover genocides from the Armenian massacre all the way through modern day um obviously the Holocaust being at the heart of that and then we look at a global lens in 10th grade and from the American perspective in the 11th grade. So the work we do is um as I mentioned very comprehensive but I think our community partners are at the heart of this work and if any parents um andor the board um would like to discuss this further

131um I'll I'll be happy to share my contact information to talk a little bit about more specifics with regards to the education that we provide our students. So thank you. >> Thank you Mr. Pikman. Anyone from the board? No. Seeing none. Okay. Is there anybody? Okay. Yes ma'am. Please take your name and child school. >> Dr. the Frank Cal School too. >> Okay. >> Um I think the point was missed. Um as an educator for over 20 years, I'm aware of the state curriculum. I know what the children are being taught. The issue is that things like this are being hidden in top districts on Long Island, the top [snorts] Ken districts in the state. When these things happen, the people are told within 24 hours. Even if it's not in the school, but in

132the district, the community is told. So for this to be hidden and in this district, this happened over about 25 years ago to my mother who was a teacher in this district and the principal called the police and it was reported and someone cleaned it up off her parking spot and it was hidden and no one was told. So the fact that over 25 years later this is still being hidden. The issue is I just want to be told what's going on. I want to know what's going on in my kids' school. That's what we want. So as a community, the community can come together and educate because yes, kids are going home and we talk to the parents, but parents have beliefs and they're not always easy to change. So really, it just comes

133down to transparency. And if police are called or whether they're called or not, I don't blame chairpeople, principles. It comes from the top and they do what they're told. So, I would really appreciate being told in a timely manner what's actually happening because I didn't find out until a couple of weeks ago and was absolutely floored. Thank you. Thank you. Anybody else? >> Please state your name and child's school. >> Sure. Uh Joanna Levit, children at school three and uh the high school. >> Okay. Sorry. Okay. So, um I think just to echo what everyone's been saying, and I know you've already responded, but just to be heard. Um we're not here to question curriculum. I know that there was something out that was questioning that. Um but personally, I'm here to talk about transparency

134in regards to the SWAT stickup found at school 2, which was determined to be drawn by students from the school. As a parent, I receive an average of two to four parent square messages a day, sometimes 10. Uh it can feel overwhelming being bombarded with information all day long about things small and large. Every day six I get a reminder that my son has early morning chorus. The next day marching band practice times for my daughter. I get a message. I get a message about everything. Certainly when there is an actual threat or danger, we expect to be informed. Recently there was a scare at the high school and parents were informed almost immediately. We should always be informed when there is a threat or when something that affects our children is going on in

135our district. A swastika is a hate crime and a hate crime is a threat. It is a danger. It it has an enormous effect on our community. The fact that it was not brought to light by the school or the district personnel is highly concerning. I have been a generally happy and satisfied parent for the last 10 years that my children have been in this school district. This is the first time I've had to ask myself why did they keep this a secret? If they kept this this to themselves, what else haven't they told us? What went into the decision that led to what went into the decision not to tell the parents? What were they afraid of? Unfortunately for the district and the school board, our reaction to not being told is much stronger

136than had you simply disclosed it in the first place. I think that trust has been broken at this time. You took away our choice on how to deal with this hate crime within our own families, Jewish and non-Jewish alike. I am here to strongly encourage you to call on each other school board superintendent and administrators to do better to lead with transparency to give families an opportunity to address issues like this within our own families in a timely manner. Please do better in the future. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Merida Silverberg, school two and middle school parent, school 2 PTA president. Um, I wasn't planning to speak tonight, but I'm so profoundly disappointed by the use of talking points rather than an authentic response that I felt that I had to. I spoke at

137length with Mr. Bickman after this happened. I'm actually quite happy with the curriculum. I'm the grandchild of Holocaust survivors on all sides. I grew up with the Holocaust. I never had to learn about it. It's my family's story. My son was in sixth grade last year and really enjoyed the Holocaust unit. I I don't want to repeat what everyone else has said. What I do want to mention is we receive notification when something happens at school that our children are going to come home talking about. That's one of the reasons we receive notifications. If there's a safety drill or a code or an ambulance is called to the school that's out of the ordinary and the children are aware and they're going to come home and tell their parents. We don't want to hear things

138from our students. You don't want us to hear things from our students because it gets lost in translation. You want us to hear from the people in charge and that didn't happen this time. Also, when a swastika was painted in the ground at school 8 over Labor Day weekend, the dis the community was told, but it wasn't called a swastika and not calling a swastika a swastika is offensive and belittling and diminishing for what it is to the Jewish community. These things must be named and we need to hear from the adults and not from 11year-olds about what's happening in the school. The other part of this that is profoundly disappointing is not just the response tonight, but the email response, the copy and paste threeline response that multiple parents received, exact same word for

139word. That's unacceptable. That's not an okay response for parents who are deeply concerned about something that happened in their child's school to their children. That's just not an okay response. There needs to be a more genuine, personalized, pick up the phone and have a conversation response when something of this nature happens. And when parents come with well-thoughtout concerns, rather than simply reading talking points, listen to what they're saying and respond to those words and not what you have prepared in advance because we weren't talking about the children involved about confidential student information or even tonight about the curriculum. We are talking about the response that was given to us and the way it was handled and that has not been addressed yet. >> Thank you. Hi, I'm Robin Dangle and I'm about to celebrate my

14050-y year high school reunion with Oceanside. At the same time, my son 11 years ago when he was in middle school, he was bullied and was forced to sit on the middle school floor of the bus due to the fact that he was a Jew. At the time, Glickman and Brown both were got involved, but nothing was ever done. The school company, the school district blamed the bus company, the bus company blamed the school district. Bottom line was it was June and in June they called the parents. Neither parents would come into the school and it was finals and regions time. So they told me that they couldn't suspend them, but they would do it due to the fact that they had finals and regions, but they would do it in September. You think that

141ever happened? Never happened. So when this was brought to my attention, I hit the roof because here, fast forward, we are still dealing with anti-semitism and other type of issues along that same line. and it really breaks my heart as a resident of Oceanside since 1967. >> Thank you. >> Hi, my name is Sydney Seagullen. I go to Oceanside Middle School currently. I'm in eighth grade and going to be in ninth grade next year. Um, I wasn't planning on speaking at all, but I realized that this is something that is not okay to be happening in schools. And when I was in elementary school, I know we didn't have this. It might be different now. Obviously, I haven't been in my elementary school for two years, but like I love being Jewish. It's a very

142big thing in my life. And um I feel like I'm just wondering what are you guys what precautions and actions are you going to take in the future to make sure something like this doesn't happen again? Not just to Jews, but to any other ethnicities or any other types of stuff so this doesn't happen again and people don't feel bad about being Jewish or being any type of ethnicity or religion. >> Thank you. Hi, Robera Seagullson. I am the mother of this lovely young lady, Sydney. I have one in the middle school, one in the high school. For me, aside from the obvious things, I'm not going to reiterate what everyone else said, but what I really would have liked to have seen, aside from a community, a statement of letting us know, I would

143have really liked to see something that said, "We unequivocally do not tolerate hate. There is no hate to be tolerated." That's the problem is that there is uh people being more bold because it's happening. And I know that I personally know numerous people who say that they've experienced it with their children in the schools that they're not even bringing it to the attention and it's in multiple schools. So the fact that there's not a you know the statement of this is unacceptable across the board to me that was the most disappointing part of this. >> Thank you. Okay. Anybody else would like to come up to the mic? Cindy, state your name even though we know what it is. >> Hi, my name is Cindy Rosen. Um, I just wanted to uh come up here.

144Uh, I wanted to congratulate every uh all the retirees. I also wanted to congratulate Brian. Good luck in Cotlin and your future success. Um, I also wanted to congratulate the honores. [snorts] Um, I wanted to speak tonight because wow, it's hard to believe that the this is my last board of education meeting of the year as my daughter Talia Rosen will be graduating from Oceantown High School District in two weeks. I want to say a formal thank you to the board of ed central administration faculty and staff as this is not a goodbye as you still may see me at some of the board of ed meetings but not so frequently. [laughter] Um it has been my pleasure being part of the Oceanside community and Oceanside school district well over 54 years. I have been

145on numerous committees as well as held numerous positions with an Oceanside PTA such as president, VP, recording secretary, and delegate to council. I would like to say that the Oceanside School District has had an amazing impact on not one but two of my daughters. Yes. Um many late nights, tutors, extra helps, and some up and downs. But now my daughter Brooke is teaching and has her masters in literacy and she's officially certified as of today. Uh due partly by the child education classes at OHS. My other daughter Talia who's actually here tonight has overcome so many challenges at the at these past four years. Have definitely had some challenges and ups and downs. But through it all, she has come out of this district with honors, numerous honor society chords, as well as two seals

146on her diploma, and will be studying marketing at the University of Tampa, as well as continuing her singing at the university. Thank you for always supporting the fine and performing arts, athletics, and marching band, and I hope it continues to thrive in this community years to come. I am honored to call Oceanside my home for the past 55 years. and so and look forward to continuing seeing what is next in store for our Oceanside School District. It is not goodbye, but see you all soon. Have a great summer everybody. You will see me at the July vlog, but that may be it. I may be here and there, but you'll see. I'll see you all at graduation. Have a great summer. Good luck to everybody. Um, and I'll miss you all. >> Thank you, Cindy.

147Congratulations with your child with your children the daughters and that you come to all the board meetings >> and we invite you to come to all the rest of them. >> Seeing none I'd like to get a motion to uh >> motion to adjurnn. >> Journ Sandy. >> Okay motion journ. Thank you very much everyone. Drive home safe. Have a good night. Daniel.