Seven talented theater students from Farmingdale High School recently took center stage to help the Long Island Children’s Museum (LICM) launch the premiere of the musical Pete the Cat.

On Monday, February 16, 2025-2026, these student-actors used their improvisational skills to create a high-energy experience for young fans and their families. The group included the following students:

• Seniors Gabbi Martinez, Olivia Renyak, and Ava Vaden
• Sophomores John Golio, Danica Mistretta, and Ty Rambeau
• Freshmen Madeleine Burfitt and Ray Negron

A Star-Studded Welcome

The event, titled "Pete’s Blue Carpet Catwalk," transformed the museum entrance into a gala. Armed with prop cameras and character acting experience, the Farmingdale High School students portrayed enthusiastic paparazzi. They interviewed guests and posed for photos as families arrived for the sold-out opening performance.

Professional Experience in the Arts

The collaboration allowed students to apply their theater training in a real-world, interactive environment. "The kids did an excellent job," said Lisa Rudin, artistic director of the Long Island Children’s Museum. "They were respectful and professional. The event was such a success that we are considering a second one later in the run."

Teacher Glen Beck noted that this partnership highlights the commitment of the theater department to provide students with performance opportunities and community engagement throughout Long Island.

The Farmingdale School District’s annual All-District Concert drew a full house to the Farmingdale High School Auditorium, where 371 student musicians in grades 5 through 12 took the stage. This year’s performance highlighted the Chorus, featuring students from all six schools, as part of the district’s tradition of rotating among Band, Strings, and Chorus each year. Families and community members gathered to celebrate the students’ musical growth from elementary through high school.

A Year of Preparation

“Our choral staff began preparing for this concert more than a year ago,” said Director of Fine and Performing Arts Greg Warnokowski. “I am deeply grateful for their dedication, the countless hours of preparation, and the unwavering commitment they showed to our students. Because of their hard work, our students were given a truly special musical experience they will carry with them for a lifetime.”

Performance Highlights

The evening featured a sequential showcase of talent:

• Elementary All-District Chorus, directed by Deanna Cupolo and Irene Smykowski
• Howitt Middle School Chorus, directed by Danielle Tucker and Eric Hulse
• Farmingdale High School Treble Chorus, directed by Joseph Franzino
• Farmingdale High School Mixed Chorus and Combined Chorus, directed by Jessica Mischke

For the Grand Finale, all 371 singers filled the stage. Conducted by Danielle Tucker, the combined group performed "This is Me" from The Greatest Showman.

A Message on the Power of Community

As the evening concluded with a powerful grand finale, Superintendent Paul Defendini left families with a heartfelt reminder of the program’s lasting value. “I encourage you to do everything you can to keep your child involved in our music program, because it’s so much more than a class — it’s a community. Through rehearsals, performances, and shared experiences, your children form meaningful connections that help guide them through middle school, high school, and beyond with confidence and a true sense of belonging.”

Looking Ahead

The All-District Concert is a cherished tradition that brings together the entire Farmingdale School District. While this year’s performance highlighted the Chorus, next year’s 2026–2027 All-District Concert will proudly feature the Strings ensemble.

Congratulations to our talented students and the following choral directors: Abigail Coacci, Deanna Cupolo, Emilie D’Andrilli, Joseph Franzino, Stephanie Haas, Eric Hulse, MiHee Hwang, Catherine McLoughlin, Jessica Mischke, Nicole Nappi, Irene Smykowski, and Danielle Tucker.

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 Berger, 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.

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.

The Farmingdale High School community gathered on January 29, 2026, to celebrate the induction of 136 exceptional students into the National Honor Society. These students have shown they are leaders both in the classroom and in their neighborhoods. The evening was a tribute to their hard work and commitment to helping others.

A Night of Recognition

The ceremony took place at Farmingdale High School and was organized by advisors Mrs. Jill Greeney and Mrs. Lisa Jensen. The auditorium was filled with proud family members, district leaders, and Board of Education members. A special highlight of the night was the recognition of several dozen teachers. These "Inspirational Educators" were hand-picked by the students for making a lasting impact on their lives. Following the event, guests enjoyed a small reception in the Commons to celebrate the achievement.

The Power of Connection

The keynote speaker, Farmingdale High School Business teacher Donna Wright, delivered an inspiring message focused on the importance of building bridges. She explained how becoming a National Honor Society member connects these students to the broader world. Being a member is about more than just academic excellence; it is about being a well-rounded person who strives to make a difference. These 136 students have demonstrated a willingness to help others and to take on challenges with determination and grace. As these new inductees continue their academic journey, there is no doubt they will continue to impact the world around them positively.