On Monday, September 22, the district’s Athletic Department kicked things off with an exciting mini pep rally at SEM. All week long, students will join the fun with themed dress-up days. This year’s lineup includes Tropical Day, Tie-Dye Day, and Decades Day!

Don’t miss Homecoming this Friday, September 26. See you there!

The elementary school pep rally rotates to a different building each year.

The Village of Farmingdale’s Cultural Arts Committee sponsored the annual Art in the Park event on September 14.

Albany Avenue art teacher Amanda Sharp Gusz coordinated Farmingdale School District’s student art display. Art teachers Camryn Dluginski (SEM) and Elizabeth Panzica (HMS) assisted her, along with members of the Farmingdale High School Art Honor Society.

Sixty-eight student works of art were exhibited, representing all four elementary schools and Howitt Middle School. The student artwork was displayed along the fence on the Village Green, adjacent to booths featuring professional artists from across Long Island. The event was held on a clear, sunny day and was well attended by students and their families, who came to support and celebrate the arts.

The Farmingdale School District officially began the 2025–2026 school year on September 4 under beautiful, warm, sunny skies. Superintendent Paul Defendini, principals, administrators, and teachers warmly welcomed students and families back to campus.

The excitement of opening day was clear as students stepped off school buses and entered their classrooms, eager to reconnect with friends, share summer stories, and take in the changes that come with a new year.

To build on this strong start, the district—together with the support of the Farmingdale PTA—has planned a full schedule of engaging and informative events throughout the fall, ensuring students and families are set for a successful school year ahead.

On August 26, 2025, our newest middle schoolers (and their families!) joined us for orientation. They had the chance to meet Principal Mike Gavalas and the amazing building administration team before exploring the school and walking through their schedules.

THANK YOU to the Howitt Kickline Team and the Fun Bunch for giving everyone a warm and energetic welcome!

Good luck to our 6th graders as they begin this exciting new chapter at Howitt Middle School—we can’t wait to see all the wonderful things you’ll accomplish!

On Thursday evening, June 26, the Farmingdale School District held its annual 8th Grade Moving-Up Ceremony for Howitt Middle School. The event took place on the school’s turf field, bringing together students, families, friends, faculty, district administrators, and members of the Board of Education in a proud celebration of the Class of 2025.

The ceremony honored the achievements of the 8th-grade students as they prepare to take the next step in their academic journey to Farmingdale High School. The program included an exceptional Howitt Middle School chorus performance, setting a festive tone for the evening.

Principal Mike Gavalas addressed the crowd, reflecting on the students’ journey and recognizing their accomplishments. He was joined by Assistant Principal Kenneth McCloud, who assisted in congratulating the graduates and supporting the presentation of certificates.

As part of the evening’s recognitions, two distinguished awards were presented to students who embody the values of the Farmingdale school community. Natalie Calderon received the Board of Education Scholarship & Citizens Award, given to a student who exemplifies character, citizenship, discipline, and leadership. Sabrina Badalamenti was honored with the Dr. Gary E. Karp Award, which recognizes a student who demonstrates a strong dedication to school and community, reflecting the spirit of service and commitment that defined Dr. Karp’s legacy.

The Farmingdale School District extends its congratulations to all the graduates and their families and looks forward to seeing the continued growth and success of the Class of 2025 as they join the ranks of Dalers at Farmingdale High School this fall.

Watch Now!! Howitt Middle School's Moving-Up Ceremony