Stepping into the heart of New York’s legislative landscape, our student leaders demonstrated that their perspectives are vital to the decisions that shape our classrooms. This important visit to Albany serves as the culmination of a year's worth of hard work and preparation. Throughout the school year, the Legislative Action Committee (LAC) meets several times at Howitt Middle School to collaborate with local officials and refine its goals.

On Tuesday, February 3, 2026, this work was put into action as the committee—which includes Board of Education members, staff, residents, and students—met with Senator Steven Rhoads and Assemblyman Michael Durso. Our students also led the way by engaging in insightful discussions with Assemblymen Sam Burger, Jake Blumencranz, and John Mikulin on student health and special education funding. These meetings allow the committee to promote laws that support the district's mission and protect our schools' interests.

Priorities for Our Schools

The committee focused on several urgent needs, including increased funding for student mental health and expanding Medicaid-reimbursable services. They also discussed the financial challenges of providing special education services through a student’s 22nd birthday and the need to vet computer-based testing for English language learners better. Additionally, the LAC advocated for reforms to the property tax cap and the civil service system to help the district manage unexpected expenses and fill vital staff roles.

A Day of Learning and Leadership

Beyond the meetings, students enjoyed a guided tour of the historic New York State Capitol, including the legislative chambers and the Hall of Governors. Assistant to the Superintendent for Administration, Dr. Samuel Thompson, praised the students for their leadership. “Our Farmingdale High School students represented us with remarkable poise and self-assurance while advocating for these critical issues,” said Dr. Thompson. “I am incredibly grateful to everyone who supported this trip and to our students for making our community proud through their dedicated advocacy.”

The strength of our community was on full display as these young advocates returned home with a deeper understanding of how to effect real change.

Kindergarteners at Woodward Parkway had a blast learning about Groundhog Day and making crafts. Mrs. Spencer’s class predicted more winter, and Punxsutawney Phil agreed! We will keep our mittens handy for six more weeks of chilly fun.

Twenty High Schoolers Gain Professional Skills at 29th Annual NYSTEA Event

From the bright lights of the stage to the intricate world of sound design, Farmingdale High School students recently immersed themselves in the professional world of performing arts. From January 9-11, 2026, the New York State Theatre Education Association (NYSTEA) hosted nearly 900 students for its 29th Annual Student Conference in Callicoon, NY. This trip marked the district’s second year attending the prestigious gathering, allowing 20 of our talented students to learn from industry experts.

Hands-On Workshops and Technical Training

The conference was a whirlwind of creativity, offering over 100 different workshops. Students had the chance to dive deep into specific areas of interest, including technical theatre, acting, dance, and voice. These sessions allowed our high schoolers to build new skills alongside peers from across the state, bringing back valuable knowledge to our own drama program.

Outstanding Individual Achievements

Farmingdale pride was on full display during the conference showcase. Senior Devin Williams stood out among 80 auditionees and was selected to perform in a featured scene. Behind the scenes, senior John Marino was chosen to assist the sound crew, ensuring the showcase sounded professional for the large audience. Whether on stage or behind the mixing board, our students proved they are ready for the spotlight.

Howitt Middle School performers and staff collaborated for a day of dance and spirit.

The Howitt Middle School stage was filled with energy and school spirit yesterday. On February 2, 2026, the Howitt Players, the Howitt Steppers, and the Howitt Kickers came together for a unique performance showcase. This event allowed our talented theater and dance students to share their hard work with one another in a supportive environment.

Practice Makes Perfect

During the event, each group performed one or two routines for their peers. The goal of this showcase was to give students a chance to practice in front of a live audience. By performing for fellow club members, students built the confidence they need for larger community events later in the 2025-2026 school year.

Learning Together

The energy reached a high point at the end of the showcase. Performers from all three groups took to the stage to teach one another steps from their specific routines. Even the teachers got involved and learned some new moves alongside their students.

Elementary Students Master Career Skills One Cup at a Time

Albany Avenue's hallways are full of energy as The Daler Perk coffee cart makes its bi-monthly rounds to provide staff with an afternoon pick-me-up. Started by teachers Gianna Ventiere and Olivia Lechner, this student-led business was designed to provide authentic, recurring opportunities for students to practice communication and career development in a real-world setting. Students take on the role of baristas, responsible for greeting customers, clarifying orders, and managing inventory. While the cart currently runs twice a month, the school hopes to offer it every Friday following the overwhelming positive response from staff.

Building Skills for School and Home

The Daler Perk helps students master life skills that carry over into the classroom and the home. Through handling money and organizing the cart’s supplies, students practice essential math and organizational habits in a fun, hands-on way. These daily interactions build social confidence and help students learn how to follow complex routines. We are incredibly grateful for the generous donations from the Arizona Beverage Company that have helped our students thrive in these new roles and feel like true professionals.