https://www.whbschools.org Copyright 2026 Syntax Communications Seventh and eighth grade Westhampton Beach Middle School students recently put their legal knowledge and public speaking skills to the test during an in-school mock trial competition with Hampton Bays Middle School. Students from both mock trial teams prepared extensively for the event, taking on the roles of attorneys and witnesses. They undertook legal research and practiced delivering opening and closing statements, making objections, submitting evidence and conducting direct, cross and redirect examinations. The Westhampton Beach Middle School mock trial program is spearheaded by teacher Kelly Massaro, who created the initiative to give local schools the opportunity to compete against one another in an authentic courtroom-style setting. Students also worked closely with local attorney Thomas Gibbons, who provided guidance and support throughout the preparation process. During the competition, the cases were presented before a panel of three judges with extensive legal backgrounds, giving students valuable real-world feedback and insight. Date Added: 5/12/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=185020 Tue, 12 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT false185020 Westhampton Beach High School junior Nicholas Simone has been named a Scholar-Athlete by the Suffolk Chapter of the National Football Foundation. He earned the award for his excellence on the field and in the classroom. Aside from his academic strengths, Simone has earned All-Division and All-County accolades as a member of his school’s varsity football team. He is also a member of his school’s baseball and winter track teams. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates Simone on this achievement. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=185002 Mon, 11 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT false185002 Westhampton Beach Elementary and High School students recently celebrated National Poem in My Pocket Day. During the day, students shared their favorite poems, both from renowned poets and those they had penned themselves. At the high school, participating students were entered into a raffle for a chance to win a gift certificate to A Book Place in Riverhead. This year’s winners were Emily Molina and Maeve O'Connor. Date Added: 5/4/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184986 Fri, 08 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184986 The Westhampton Beach School District proudly announces that the following students, teams and coaches have received postseason recognition for their participation in the winter sports program. Multiple Westhampton Beach winter student-athletes earned designation as All-State, All-Long Island, All-County, All-Division, All-League and All-Conference in their respective sports. Girls Basketball Team: Class AA Long Island Champions, Scholar Athlete Team All-League: Chloe Blowes, Sandra Clarke, Kate Sweet, Jasmine Taylor All-County: Sandra Clarke, Kate Sweet All-Long Island: Sandra Clarke 2nd Team All-Long Island: Kate Sweet All-Conference, All-Division: Sandra Clarke, Kate Sweet, Jasmine Taylor All-County Academic: Sandra Clarke, Scarlett Doyle, Verona Easton, Jasmine Taylor Unsung Heroes: Mary Atkinson, Anya de Boer Miss Suffolk Top Player: Sandra Clarke Boys Basketball Team: Scholar Athlete Team All-League: Levi Emerson, Truman Hahn, Atas Smoriginas All-County: Truman Hahn All-Conference: Levi Emerson, Truman Hahn All-County Academic: Thomas LaMura Girls Winter Track Team: Scholar Athlete Team All-League: Alexandra Barry, Filippa Halvorsen Boys Winter Track Team: Scholar Athlete Team Wrestling Team: Scholar Athlete Team All-League: Darren Cangelosi, Carmine Esposito, Tadhg Green, Andrew Lewis, Logan Munsch, Constantine Reilly All-County: Carmine Esposito, Andrew Lewis Competition Cheer Team: Scholar Athlete Team All-Classification: Kara Salvaggio All-Academic: Emily Edwards IMPACT Award/Top 7 Women of IMPACT: Kara Salvaggio Date Added: 5/7/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184975 Thu, 07 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184975 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students recently participated in an annual sensory event in which they learned about disabilities through interactive stations. They explored sensory challenges such as noise and touch and learned about the many devices available to students who are unable to communicate through speech. Date Added: 5/6/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184973 Wed, 06 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184973 Motivational speaker Rohan Murphy recently visited Westhampton Beach Elementary School to share his journey and life lessons with students. Murphy, an American Paralympian, accomplished wrestler and nationally recognized youth speaker, captivated the attention of students as he spoke about his accomplishments in life despite having his legs amputated at a young age. They clapped and cheered when Rohan told them one of his first wrestling wins in high school was at a meet at Westhampton Beach High School. Students left the assembly with inspiration to always do their best. Date Added: 5/5/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184974 Tue, 05 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184974 As a symbol of their commitment to the pursuit of higher education, the Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2026 wore the apparel of their college of choice on May 1. The class will be heading to several premier schools this fall. “We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2026,” said Principal Dr. Christopher Herr. “They have made their mark on Westhampton Beach High School, and we wish them the very best in the future.” Date Added: 5/4/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184985 Mon, 04 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184985 The community is invited to celebrate high school seniors from the Southampton, Hampton Bays, and Westhampton Beach school districts who have committed to enter the military upon graduation. The students will be honored at a seventh annual ceremony at Westhampton Beach High School on Friday, May 29 at 10:00 a.m. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184949 Mon, 04 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184949 Members of Westhampton Beach Middle School’s National Junior Honor Society recently raised $300 for Wounded Warrior Project through a schoolwide “penny wars” competition. All three grade levels participated, competing to collect the most spare change in support of the cause. The friendly competition not only encouraged school spirit, but also helped students contribute to an organization that provides programs and services for veterans. The NJHS plans to continue its community service work in the coming months. Upcoming initiatives include projects to support local first responders and a book drive benefiting the Book Fairies. Date Added: 5/1/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184956 Fri, 01 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184956 Forty Westhampton Beach High School freshmen recently visited Sacred Heart University and Yale University as part of an educational field trip designed to inspire early college and career exploration. The students toured each campus, learned about academic programs and gained insight into campus life. The experience allowed them to begin envisioning their future paths. Date Added: 4/30/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184969 Thu, 30 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184969 Westhampton Beach High school student leaders recently took part in the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards Spring Conference, joining peers from Suffolk, Nassau and Queens for a day focused on leadership development, connection-building and personal growth. Senior Brady Schultz played a key role in organizing the event as part of the youth committee. Juniors Madison Klammer and Jennifer Santiago also contributed as facilitators, helping guide activities and discussions throughout the conference. Sophomores Alexandra Brandi, Casey Farrell, Aitana Garcia, Angel Leader, Julianna Najdzion, Alexander Vaz and freshman Samantha Mazurkiewicz participated in the program for the first time, gaining valuable leadership experience alongside students from across the region. Date Added: 4/28/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184955 Tue, 28 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184955 Westhampton Beach High School girls basketball players Sandra Clarke and Kate Sweet, along with head coach Katie Peters, were recently honored by Newsday for their outstanding performances during a historic season. Clarke, a senior guard, earned a place on Newsday’s All-Long Island Girls Basketball First Team after playing a key role in leading the Hurricanes to their third consecutive Suffolk Class AA title. She delivered an exceptional performance in the Long Island championship game, scoring 31 points in a 61-58 victory and helping secure the program’s first Long Island title since 2025. Sweet, a junior guard, was named to Newsday’s All-Long Island Second Team. A consistent offensive leader, she contributed 15 points in the Suffolk Class AA championship game and averaged an impressive 21 points per game throughout the Suffolk playoffs, helping propel the team to championships. At the helm, Peters was named Newsday’s Suffolk Coach of the Year in recognition of her leadership and dedication. Under her guidance, the Hurricanes captured the Suffolk Class AA title and went on to earn their first Long Island championship in several years. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184936 Fri, 24 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184936 The Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise team, Vervida, earned second place at Virtual Enterprises International’s National Business Plan Competition, held at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City. Going into the competition, Westhampton Beach was ranked in the top eight of the country’s 600 teams. During the competition, the Vervida team, comprised of Kayla Blair, Sandra Clarke, Meadow DuBrovin, Cameron Giordano, Joshua McCarthy and Michelle Rodriguez, marketed self-sustaining indoor gardening planters. The Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise program requires students to create a business concept and formulate plans to market it. They compete and present their plans at several events throughout the year. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the team on their hard work and success in the competition. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184937 Fri, 24 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184937 The Westhampton Beach School District is pleased to recognize the graduating members of the Westhampton Junior Ambulance Program. These students have completed two years of weekly standbys, including service throughout the summer and extensive training. Individually, they have each contributed over 150 hours of community service assisting EMTs and paramedics in delivering top-level patient care in emergency situations. Many Westhampton Beach students who are part of the Junior Ambulance Program go on to become certified EMTs and continue serving within the organization. Alumni have pursued careers as nurses, physician assistants, doctors, and dentists, carrying forward their commitment to helping others. Date Added: 4/23/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184934 Thu, 23 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184934 The Westhampton Beach School District Board of Education recently presented a Great Hurricane Award to Ron Gholson, a member of Westhampton Beach Elementary School’s security team. Gholson was honored for his dedication to the safety of students and staff within the district. “We are incredibly proud to recognize Ron Gholson,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. “His friendly nature and unwavering dedication create a welcoming and safe environment for everyone who walks through our doors. He goes above and beyond each day, building meaningful connections with students and staff.” Gholson has worked in the district for the past 31 years. The Great Hurricane Award aims to honor staff throughout the year who make a difference every day within the school district. “A hurricane is a storm of indomitable force, but more than that, here in Westhampton Beach, it stands for honor, hard work, dedication, loyalty and tradition,” said Dr. Probst. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184921 Mon, 20 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184921 To promote kindness and inclusivity, Westhampton Beach High School students recently visited Westhampton Beach Elementary School to read and engage in meaningful discussions as part of the school’s Social Inclusivity Month celebration. The high school volunteers shared the children’s book “It's Okay to Be Different” by Todd Parr, sparking thoughtful conversations about acceptance, empathy and ways to make a positive impact in their community. The visit also gave elementary students an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about life in high school. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184904 Fri, 17 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184904 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Dagny Beasley on being named to Newsday’s Top 10 Long Island Girls Golf Players list. Beasley is recognized for finishing fourth in the Suffolk individual championship and qualifying for the state tournament last spring. She has committed to Williams College. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184901 Thu, 16 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184901 With spring in the air, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students were back in their school’s PTA-sponsored greenhouse learning the art and science of gardening. Working alongside farm educator Renato Stafford, owner of Homegrown, the students learned how organic materials break down to enrich soil and support plant growth by building a compost pile. They also planted a variety of vegetable seeds. Each student received seeds to take home, extending the learning experience beyond the classroom and inspiring families to garden together. Date Added: 4/15/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184893 Wed, 15 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184893 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Zach Berger on being named to Newsday’s Top 10 Long Island Boys Golf Players list. Berger earned the recognition as a six-year varsity player with a two-time All-Long Island title. He also shot 69 and 74 to tie for fifth in the 2025 state tournament and is slated to compete again in 2026. He is committed to play at Loyola University in Maryland. Date Added: 4/14/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184892 Tue, 14 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184892 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates junior Jake Calloway on being named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Boys Lacrosse Players list. Calloway earned the recognition for establishing himself as “having top-flight cover talent and the ability to boost the transition game.” He is committed to play at Penn State. Date Added: 4/13/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184888 Mon, 13 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184888 Date Added: 4/13/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184886 Mon, 13 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184886 Date Added: 4/13/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184887 Mon, 13 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184887 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students recently took part in an exciting in-school field trip experience with Mobile Ed Productions, a program dedicated to education through entertainment. Held in the school gymnasium, the interactive presentation immersed students in a variety of hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics stations designed to spark curiosity and creativity. Students explored virtual reality technology, robots and dinosaur bones. The enriching experience was made possible through the support of the school’s PTA. Date Added: 4/6/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184856 Mon, 06 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184856 Students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School displayed their knowledge of science at the school’s 27th annual Math, Science and Technology Fair. The event showcased a variety of science projects by students in grades 1-5, with topics related to the speed of Hot Weels, beach erosion, solar panels and pointe shoe design. This year’s fair winners were Dean Kalisak, kindergarten; Bryson Searless, first grade; Noelle Algieri, second grade; Kenley Montpetit, third grade; Ben Williams, fourth grade; and Max Searles, fifth grade. Runners-up were Melania Kirk and Jameson Liguori, kindergarten; Camilo Perez, first grade; Rylee Kalisak, second grade; Diana Meyers, third grade; Evelyn Matlock, fourth grade; and Noelle Kalisak, fifth grade. The winning students are now eligible to compete in Brookhaven National Laboratory’s annual Elementary Science Fair Competition. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184855 Fri, 03 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184855 Westhampton Beach Middle School is proud to announce that 64 students have been named National Junior Honor Society members. The students were officially inducted during a candlelighting ceremony. To be eligible for membership, the students were required to maintain an unweighted GPA of 92 or better, meet the standards of leadership, service, citizenship and character, and complete community service. The middle school congratulates the following inductees: Matthew Baker, Leo Bonawandt, Sophie Bracovic, Jeannine Braynelle Fernandez, Tierney Canty, Maxx Centeno-Peipman, Lourdes Chan, Dominic Ciampa, Emilio Ciampa, Mia Correa, Arden Faloon, Lillian Farano, Molly Fay, Aaliyah Figueroa, Chase Glover, Alexander Gonzalez, Anthony Gonzalez, Ryley Gragg, Neila Grazina, Emmy Gregor, Sheila Greiner, Sophia Harrington-Matros, Michael Heptig, Blake Hertwig, Callan Hughes, Isabel Ixcoy, Gabriella Jimenez, Erin Kelly, Ian Kim, Pablo Lopez Espana, Shea Lukert, Noelle Lynch, Adriana Martinez Escalante, Alaina Mastropierro, Phoenix Meskouris, Kenzie Miller, Elijah Moran, Emily Neumaier, Hugo Palma Lima, Van Pendergast, Evan Pereyra, Vasilia Reilly, Scarlet Reyes Suchite, Claire Robesch, Mia Rybak, Zeynep Sahin, Emely Salazar, Angel Sanchez, Conor Sarian, Thomas Seay, Rohan Singh, Cole Smith, Savannah Snyder, Blake Stewart, Brooke Stoehr, Zachary Stubelek, Kacie Suarez, Jayden Trinh, Callen Turza, Helen Velasquez, Aria Vera, Alexander Wegman, Gabriella Yervasi and Althea Ziccardi. Date Added: 4/2/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184837 Thu, 02 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184837 Fifty-one Westhampton Beach High School freshmen in the school’s Youth and Government course presented impressive bills and brought home two awards from the New York State YMCA Youth and Government Conference, which brings together young leaders from across the region to simulate the legislative process and engage in civic discourse. This is the second year that the high school has participated in the conference. The award recipients were Molly Luzim, who won an Outstanding Delegate award, and Teddy Isaacson, who earned an Outstanding Debater award. The 51 students prepared six original bills to present at the conference, with issues including lowering insulin costs, requiring CPR instruction for high school graduation, restricting harmful pesticides near schools, increasing campaign finance transparency, expanding organ donor registration through health insurance enrollment and providing paid family leave following pregnancy loss. Notably, all six bills passed through the legislative process, with the Pregnancy Loss Paid Leave bill earning a unanimous vote. Following passage, the bills were formally signed by the Youth Governor, completing the full legislative simulation experience. The high school’s new Youth and Government elective course aims to engage students in national government and politics and provide them with an opportunity to elevate their voices. The course was inaugurated following interest by students who participated in the middle school’s Youth and Government class. Date Added: 4/1/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184830 Wed, 01 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184830 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students recently celebrated Women’s History Month through a series of engaging, schoolwide learning activities. As part of the celebration, they participated in an interactive “Guess Who” game, using clues to identify influential women from history. After correctly guessing their “mystery woman,” they added her photo to a collaborative “Guess Who” display showcased in the school’s main hallway. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184854 Tue, 31 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184854 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates seniors Katie Burke and Addison Celi on once again being named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Softball Players list. Burke was named for batting .609 with five home runs, 37 RBIs and 35 runs last season, and Celi for amassing a total of 728 career strikeouts and being named to Newsday’s All-Long Island second team in 2024. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184843 Mon, 30 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184843 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates three student-athletes on being named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Girls Lacrosse Players list. Ava Derby, a senior who will be attending the University of Maryland, was named for making 31 goals, 19 assists, 32 ground balls, 44 draw controls and 15 caused turnovers last season. Senior Maiya Boughal, who will be attending Dartmouth College, was recognized as a “versatile midfielder” whose record last season includes 45 draw controls, 38 goals, five assists, 16 ground balls and 10 caused turnovers. Mia Brown, a junior who has already committed to the University of Maryland, earned recognition as a top goalie in the nation. Date Added: 3/27/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184836 Fri, 27 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184836 Westhampton Beach High School Principles of Marketing students were recently given an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Madison Square Garden. They explored the inner workings of event planning, promotion and management, gaining firsthand insight into the strategies and operations that make large-scale events successful. The experience also offered a practical perspective on careers in marketing, event coordination, and sports and entertainment management, complementing lessons learned in class. Date Added: 3/24/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184824 Thu, 26 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184824 Westhampton Beach High School students in Amy Demchak’s Digital Generation class who earned top honors at the Digital Generation Final Presentation competition at Stony Brook University in January were recently rewarded with an exciting visit to Google’s New York City offices. The trip allowed the students to hear from Google employees, engage in a creative brainstorming activity, tour the offices, explore the game room and enjoy Google’s complimentary food offerings. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates Ava Borruso, Charlotte Campbell, Marelin Chucuy Alvarado and Brianna Ciro on their achievement. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184823 Wed, 25 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184823 Westhampton Beach Middle School students gained a greater understanding of the Bill of Rights through an engaging visit from Westhampton Beach Village police officer Mark Yakaboski. During the visit, Officer Yakaboski discussed how the Bill of Rights is interpreted within the school system and the broader community. The visit tied into the students’ social studies curriculum. Date Added: 3/24/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184822 Tue, 24 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184822 Nineteen Westhampton Beach Middle School and Elementary School students recently performed at the prestigious Suffolk County Music Educators Association All-County Music Festival. They were selected based on their impressive NYSSMA scores. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following students on their performances: Division 1, Grades 5 & 6 Gianna Aiello – Flute Victoria Berrio – Voice Frankie DiBiaso – Trumpet Noelle Kalisak – Voice Samantha McKee – Voice Calla Tymann – Voice Carmine Votino – Voice Nimra Yasir – French Horn Safa Yasir – Voice Division 2, Grades 7 & 8 Arden Faloon – Voice Aaliyah Figueroa – flute Sophia Harrington-Matros – Voice Ian Kim – Trumpet Mathew Marden – French Horn Greta Minnerop – Voice Evan Pereyra – Voice Ezra Schneider – Trombone Lily Solomon – Violin Jayden Trinh – Voice Aria Vera – Voice Date Added: 3/19/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184803 Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184803 Westhampton Beach High School science research students Brady Schultz and Noor Sohail earned first-place honors in the Biomedical and Health Sciences category at the Long Island Science and Engineering Fair. With the top finish, the duo will next compete in the prestigious Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair. To secure their placement, Schultz and Sohail presented their research on the effects of dates on fruit flies with Alzheimer’s disease. As part of the research, Sohail constructed an electrical shock device to serve as a negative stimulus, testing whether the fruit flies’ memory improved after consuming dates. They expanded their research after obtaining a grant that provided access to Oxford Nanopore technology. Using the technology, Schultz and Sohail dissected the fruit flies to extract gut bacteria and discovered that the flies’ gut health improved by 80% after consuming dates. When not in the lab, Schultz and Sohail can be found participating in their school’s extracurriculars. Schultz is a semifinalist in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program, president of his school’s National Honor Society and an accomplished musician, sailor and tennis player. Sohail is co-president of her school’s Environmental Club and vice president of the Science Club. Outside of school, she is a member of the Westhampton Junior Ambulance, teaches Sunday school and volunteers at Northwell Health. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates both students for their hard work and dedication to science research and wishes them continued success. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184782 Tue, 17 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184782 The artwork of seven Westhampton Beach Middle School students is currently on display at the Parrish Art Museum as part of the museum’s 73rd annual Student Exhibition, which runs from March 7 through April 26. The 2026 showcase features more than 1,000 young artists from eastern Long Island schools. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following talented artists: Anne Back, Greta Minnerop, Van Pendergast, Carla Rodriguez Cruz, Mia Rybak, Hannah Spanbock and Brooke Stoehr. Date Added: 3/16/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184778 Mon, 16 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184778 The Westhampton Beach High School girls varsity basketball team captured the Class AA Long Island Championship with a victory over Garden City High School on March 11 at Stony Brook University. The championship marks a historic achievement for the program. It is the team’s first Long Island title since 2005. The Hurricanes delivered a strong performance on the court, demonstrating teamwork, determination and resilience throughout the game to secure the win. With the Long Island Championship in hand, the team now advances to the state tournament. Westhampton Beach will face Nyack in the state quarterfinals at 5 p.m. on Friday, March 13, at Yorktown High School. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184777 Fri, 13 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184777 Five high-achieving seventh and eighth grade Westhampton Beach Middle School math students recently put their problem-solving skills to the test during the National Museum of Mathematics’ MoMathlon competition at Brookhaven National Laboratory. The students were challenged to think critically, collaborate with peers and apply advanced mathematical reasoning to a variety of creative problems. Representing their school at the competition were Bear Brandt, Lola Chan, Aaliyah Figueora, Ian Kim and Colin Maguire. Date Added: 3/12/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184766 Thu, 12 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184766 Westhampton Beach High School has announced Brady Schultz and Maiya Boughal as its Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively. The two seniors earned the top spots in their class through their outstanding commitment to academics. Schultz and Boughal have achieved several academic accomplishments during their tenure at Westhampton Beach High School. Schultz is a National Merit semifinalist, AP Scholar with Distinction and AP Capstone recipient. He serves as president of the National Honor Society and is a member of his school’s Math, Foreign Language and Science honor societies. He co-captains the boys varsity tennis team, for which he holds an All-Division title, and is manager of the girls varsity tennis team. He also performs in theater programs in and outside of his school and is an accomplished singer with All-State and All-County titles. In addition, he participates in his school’s science research program. Outside of school, Schultz is a certified EMT and an accomplished sailor. He earned first place in the North American Sunfish Championships and took 56th out of 85 sailors in the world championship in Ecuador in December. He plans to double major in biochemistry and Spanish in college. Boughal was named an AP Scholar with Distinction by the College Board for her outstanding Advanced Placement exam scores and earned an AP Capstone seal on her diploma. She is also a member of her school’s National, Math, Foreign Language and Science honor societies. An accomplished lacrosse athlete, she has earned All-Division and All-Tournament titles during her four years of playing at the varsity level. Outside of school, she is a certified ocean lifeguard. She will be attending Dartmouth University in the fall to play lacrosse and study neuroscience on a pre-med track. Click here to view the video https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184763 Wed, 11 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184763 Westhampton Beach High School thespians, under the direction of Kimet Speed, will present a performance of “The SpongeBob Musical” on Friday, March 20, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, March 21, at 7 p.m.; and Sunday, March 22, at 2 p.m. in the school’s auditorium, 49 Lilac Road, Westhampton Beach. Tickets are free. The musical was selected for its entertainment value, said Speed, who added, “The show is fun and uplifting and has catchy tunes and familiar material that is suitable for all ages.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184736 Tue, 10 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184736 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students are celebrating their love of reading as part of their school’s annual Pick a Reading Partner program, whose theme this year is “March Madness for Reading: Tournament of Books.” As part of the program, students are participating in a friendly literary competition modeled after a tournament bracket. Each week, students vote for their favorite books as titles compete to advance through brackets. Younger students are exploring picture books together during library classes, while older students are discovering chapter books with staff members from the Westhampton Free Library during lunch. The reading celebration will continue in the coming weeks with special guest readers visiting classrooms to share their favorite stories. Date Added: 3/9/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184734 Mon, 09 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT false184734 Westhampton Beach High School’s Seascapes literary magazine received national recognition, earning a Superior Distinction from the National Council of Teachers of English for its June 2025 issue. To earn the distinction, the publication competed against more than 450 entries submitted by schools from 44 states and six countries. “I am incredibly proud of the students' hard work all year and I am thrilled that they earned this well-deserved recognition,” said Joyce Schmieder, the publication’s adviser. The June 2025 edition marked the 51st publication of Seascapes, which has been produced annually by students at Westhampton Beach High School since 1974. Each year, the magazine showcases the creativity and talent of the school’s student writers. To publish the 2025 issue, 16 students met regularly throughout the year to read submissions and provide thoughtful feedback to their peers. The magazine’s editors, Class of 2025 graduates Nicholas Borruso, Ava Kuklis, Meghan Pomroy and Chloe Sword, worked collaboratively to revise and edit each piece of writing, select artwork and design the layout of the publication. The issue featured the work of more than 40 student writers and artists from across the school. Date Added: 3/6/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184733 Fri, 06 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184733 Westhampton Beach High School science research students are gaining valuable college-level research experience and undertaking meaningful scientific investigations through partnerships with Stony Brook University, Brookhaven National Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and educational grants. Seniors Emma O’Came, Brady Schultz and Noor Sohail are using these collaborations to advance their remarkable research projects. O’Came is researching digestive enzymes and proteins that contribute to diseases, including pancreatic cancer. Her work began over the summer while participating in the highly competitive Stony Brook Simons Summer Research Program under the mentorship of Dr. Kathryn Gunn in the university’s department of biochemistry and cell biology. She has since expanded her research through Brookhaven National Laboratory’s SPARK program, where she can use equipment to grow and manipulate enzymes in search of naturally occurring mutations. These mutations, she explained, can be used for drug development in areas such as weight loss. She is working closely with an undergraduate student at the university. O’Came aims to publish her findings in a medical journal and has already submitted to several research competitions. She has already advanced to the second round of the New York State Science and Engineering Fair competition. “Having the ability to collaborate and not be limited to research just in my high school is incredible,” said O’Came, who thanked Dr. Dianna Gobler, her science research teacher, for opening the doors for research opportunities. Schultz and Sohail have also expanded their research thanks to collaborations with outside research facilities and grants that provided them access to advanced laboratory equipment. The pair have been studying the effects of dates on fruit flies with Alzheimer’s disease and have made significant findings through advanced experimentation. As part of the research, Sohail constructed an electrical shock device to serve as a negative stimulus, testing whether the fruit flies’ memory improved after consuming dates. They expanded their research after obtaining a grant that provided access to Oxford Nanopore technology, which they learned to use with guidance from researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. Using the technology, Schultz and Sohail dissected the fruit flies to extract gut bacteria and discovered that the flies’ gut health improved by 80% after consuming dates. With results in hand, Schultz and Sohail plan to repeat their experiments to ensure accuracy and then work with Brookhaven National Laboratory’s SPARK program to conduct further experimentation, studying brain plaques within the fruit flies. They have also advanced to the second round at the Long Island Science and Engineering Fair competition. “We are extremely lucky to have the opportunity to conduct our research,” said Schultz. All three students plan to continue their research and utilize what they have learned as they begin college in the fall. O’Came will be attending Northwestern University and plans to study biology, global health, biomedical engineering and French. Schultz is set to study biochemistry and Spanish, and Sohail intends to study biochemistry with the goal of becoming a surgeon. When not in the lab, the trio can be found participating in their school’s extracurriculars. O’Came serves as president and founder of the school’s new Science Club. She is also vice president of the French Club and a member of the varsity volleyball team. Outside of school, she is a lifeguard and member of the Westhampton Junior Ambulance. Schultz is a semifinalist in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program, an accomplished musician with All-State and All-County titles, and an All-Division tennis player. Sohail is co-president of her school’s Environmental Club and vice president of the Science Club. Outside of school, she is a member of the Westhampton Junior Ambulance, teaches Sunday school and volunteers at Northwell Health. I am incredibly proud of the dedication and curiosity my students have shown in their research,” said Gobler. “Their innovative experiments and commitment to exploring complex scientific questions are truly inspiring.” Looking forward, Gobler said the district is exploring additional collaborations for science research students, including one with Stan-X, a Stanford University science program. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184719 Tue, 03 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184719 The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Brett Geller (horn), Cameron Hipp (clarinet), Bell Ruggiero (piccolo) and William Sultan (flute) for earning spots in the prestigious New York State Band Directors Association Honor Concert Band. They were selected to perform based on their NYSSMA solo ratings and teacher recommendations. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184664 Wed, 25 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184664 Twleve talented Westhampton Beach School District student-musicians were selected to perform in the prestigious Suffolk County Music Educators Association All-County Festival in March. The students were chosen based on previous NYSSMA scores and teacher recommendations. The district congratulates the following students: Band Abigail Camacho, flute Lucas Palmer, clarinet Rowan Toolan, euphonium Chorus Emilia Harrington-Matros, soprano Christian Naclerio, bass Catherine Robesch, soprano Samuel Sarocky, tenor Beatrice Tunney, soprano Sophia Zaleski, soprano Orchestra Jackson Caputo, trumpet Ruby Higinbotham, bass clarinet Kaiden Kristinsson-Bailey, flute Date Added: 2/24/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184663 Tue, 24 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184663 Seventh and eighth grade students participating in Westhampton Beach Middle School’s Youth and Government program recently visited the Suffolk County Legislature’s offices for a hands-on civics experience. During the visit, they learned about the role and responsibilities of local lawmakers and had the opportunity to present and defend their own proposed legislation. They drafted and presented four original bills that addressed real-world issues, including the Clean Water Access Act, Paws in the Park Act, Humane Breeding Standards Act, and Dispensary Buffer and Safety Act. The students formally introduced their legislation and responded to questions, gaining firsthand experience in the legislative process. Date Added: 2/23/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184643 Mon, 23 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184643 In honor of Black History Month, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students are learning about influential African Americans through a variety of activities sponsored by the school’s Equity Committee. One of these activities is an interactive “Honoring Key Elements of Black History” periodic table that is displayed in the school’s main hallway. The table includes QR codes that students can scan to gain more information through articles and videos. Additionally, student council members have been highlighting influential African Americans during morning announcements. Date Added: 2/13/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184642 Fri, 13 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184642 Westhampton Beach Middle School eighth grade students recently attended a powerful and thought-provoking assembly, “From the Fires: Voices of the Holocaust,” presented by the Theatre Three Touring Company. The performance shared survivor voices and historical perspectives that brought history to life and reinforced key themes that the students have been exploring in their English language arts and history classes. The assembly was closely connected to the students’ reading and analysis of Elie Wiesel’s Holocaust memoir, “Night,” and the students will soon begin their study of World War II. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184636 Thu, 12 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184636 Westhampton Beach High School student Elizabeth Sultan recently earned first place in the 2025 Team Up 4 Community Holiday Heroes Contest for her impactful community service project, Peter’s Packages. She was awarded $3,000 to support its continued growth. Through the project, which she named in memory of her father, Sultan provides thoughtfully curated care packages filled with items and resources that brought her comfort and healing during her own journey through grief. Each Peter’s Package includes a variety of age-appropriate items such as puzzles, games, weighted blankets, crafts and other comfort materials designed to promote emotional well-being and moments of calm during difficult times. Items for the care packages are collected through an Amazon wish list, allowing community members to directly support the project’s mission. To raise further funds and awareness about Peter’s Packages, Sultan partnered with her varsity soccer team, organizing a dedicated game focused on her cause. During the event, she raised funds and shared her project through the sale of T-shirts and cookies. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184635 Wed, 11 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184635 Westhampton Beach Middle School students Lola Chan, Claire Robesch and Zachary Stubelek have been named local winners in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5350’s annual Patriot’s Pen essay contest. Their impressive essays were written on the contest theme of “How are you showing patriotism and support for our country?” The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the students for achieving honors in the contest. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184634 Tue, 10 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184634 Westhampton Beach High School Science Club members took home five Top 10 medals from the Science Olympiad competition held at Hauppauge High School on Jan. 31. Led by science teacher Dianna Gobler, the Science Club members excelled in a variety of scientific challenges against 65 teams from across Long Island. Jaslinne Blanco and Charlotte O'Brien took second place in Disease Detectives; Matthew Hernandez and Annabelle Najdzion earned fourth place in the bungee drop and seventh in Remote Sensing; Aidyn Beebe-Edwards and Patrick Reilly placed eighth in Entomology; Aidyn Beebee-Edwards and Brady Schultz earned ninth in Disease Detectives; Brady Schultz and Alex Vaz took 11th in Chemistry; and Charlotte Campbell and Alex Vaz placed 13th in Materials Science. This was only the second time Westhampton Beach has competed as a team. They first competed last year after Science Club founder and president Emma O’Came created the team. Date Added: 2/9/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184616 Mon, 09 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184616 Westhampton Beach High School junior guard Kate Sweet surpassed 1,000 points in her high school basketball career during a game on Feb. 2 against Harborfields, where she scored 21 points, helping lead the team to a 68-46 win. Earlier in the season, Sweet was named to Newsday’s top 100 Long Island girls basketball players. She also holds All-County, All-Division, All-League and All-Conference titles. Date Added: 2/6/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184615 Fri, 06 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184615 The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to 22 high school music students who were selected to participate in the Hampton Music Educators Association’s annual music festival. To participate, the students were nominated by their music teachers and then selected by the festival committee. They took part in several practice sessions and a final concert. Congratulations to the following student-musicians: Jackson Caputo, Keith Figeuroa, Brett Geller, Emilia Harrington-Matros, Ruby Higinbotham, Cameron Hipp, Madison Klammer, Jordan Kolsin, Kaiden Kristinsson Bailey, Vincent LaGatta, Gage Matlock, Christian Naclerio, Channing O’Neil, Lucy Owens, Lucas Palmer, Catherine Robesch, Bella Ruggiero, Sam Sarocky, Marley Serrell, Grace Smith, Elizabeth Sultan and William Sultan. Date Added: 2/5/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184600 Thu, 05 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184600 The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to 20 middle school music students who participated in the Hampton Music Educators Association’s annual music festival at Riverhead High School on Jan. 17. To participate, the students were nominated by their music teachers and then selected by the festival committee. They took part in several practice sessions and a final concert. The district congratulates the following student-musicians: Cali Antoine, Mathew Baker, Olivia Bienkowski, Eleanor Butcher, Josephine Dosinski, Arden Faloon, Aaliyah Figueroa, Sophia Harrington-Matros, Regan Heisser, Ian Kim, Pablo Lopez Espana, Mathew Marden, Alexander Daniel Quinteros, Dahlia Sanic-Scoop, John Snyder, Savannah Snyder, Blake Stewart, Jayden Trinh, Aria Vera and Anabelle Zinn. Date Added: 2/4/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184599 Wed, 04 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184599 Fourth grade students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School took center stage during a schoolwide social emotional learning assembly centered on the theme of responsibility. The student-led event served as a culminating celebration for Responsibility Month, an initiative developed by the school’s Equity Committee. Under the guidance of teachers Anthony Cappiello, Kaleigh Diaz, Kathy Parez, Jamie Thom and staff members Amy Barry and Taryn Brown, the students created presentations that highlighted what responsibility looks like in everyday life. Students in Thom’s class shared how they demonstrate responsibility by caring for their classroom pets, two geckos named Squiggy and Fonzie, explaining the daily routines and commitment involved in keeping them healthy. Parez’s class brought the message to life through a reader’s theater performance of “The Ant and the Grasshopper,” emphasizing the importance of planning and accountability. In a unique collaboration with the high school, students from Diaz’s and Cappiello’s classes produced a “Hurricane Watch” broadcast. During the segment, students interviewed staff and fellow students about what it means to be responsible. Date Added: 2/3/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184598 Tue, 03 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184598 The Westhampton Beach School District is now accepting nominations for its Wall of Fame. The wall, which was inaugurated in 2002, aims to memorialize the extraordinary achievements of the Westhampton Beach School District’s alumni and former faculty and staff. The district is seeking nominations of individuals who have made significant strides in academics, business, community service, fine arts and public service. The Wall of Fame is a permanent fixture in the district’s auditorium and honors inductees with individual plaques that commemorate their achievements. To date, 33 individuals have been honored. Nomination forms can be accessed on the district’s website and submitted digitally or mailed to Jason Cohen, director of health, physical education and athletics, 49 Lilac Road, Westhampton Beach. Nominations must be submitted by April 1, 2026. Inductees will be honored in the fall of 2026. Click here to access the nomination forms. Date Added: 1/29/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184566 Thu, 29 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184566 Two Westhampton Beach High School students have been named local winners in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 535’s annual Voice of Democracy essay contest. Their stellar essays were written on the contest theme of “How are you showing patriotism and support for our country?” Achieving honors in the Voice of Democracy essay contest were Nico Grazina and Elizabeth Sultan. Date Added: 1/28/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184565 Wed, 28 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184565 Several Westhampton Beach High School Digital Generation students earned top spots at the Digital Generation Final Presentation at Stony Brook University. To achieve the recognition, the students worked in cross-district teams from across Suffolk County to develop innovative digital entrepreneurship projects. The Digital Generation program, administered by Eastern Suffolk BOCES and Stony Brook University, provides students with the opportunity to collaborate virtually using advanced technology while also earning college credit. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following students who earned honors: First Place Ava Borruso and Brianna Circo Second Place Charlotte Campbell and Marelin Chucuy Alvarado Third Place Andrew Lewis Fourth Place Luca Caumartin and Jude Dawson https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184554 Tue, 27 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184554 The Westhampton Beach School District Board of Education recently presented a Great Hurricane Award to Scott Leogrande, a physical education/health teacher and athletic trainer at Westhampton Beach High School. Leogrande was honored for his dedication to students and the district. “We are incredibly proud to recognize Scott Leogrande,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. “His dedication to our student athletes and all the students he teaches are a tremendous asset to the district.” Leogrande has taught in the Westhampton Beach School District for the past 30 years. He began his career in the district in 1995 as an athletic trainer after earning his degree in sports medicine and health from Ohio Northern University. He has since earned his master’s degree in physical education from Adelpi University, allowing him to teach physical education and health. In addition, he teaches CPR/first aid, through which students gain certification in both areas, and Introduction to Sports Medicine, where students can earn three college credits through Adelphi University. Leogrande is also a member of the NYS Teachers Association and the National Athletic Trainers Association. “I feel honored and thankful for this award,” said Leogrande. “It is always nice to be recognized by your peers. Westhampton Beach is a special place for me, and I look forward to finishing my career here.” The Great Hurricane Award aims to honor staff throughout the year who make a difference every day within the school district. “A hurricane is a storm of indomitable force, but more than that, here in Westhampton Beach, it stands for honor, hard work, dedication, loyalty and tradition,” said Dr. Probst. Date Added: 1/23/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184551 Mon, 26 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184551 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students recently hosted a successful clothing drive to support the school’s annual fifth grade educational trip to Boston. For each pound of clothing collected, students earned funds through Go Green Clothing Recycling. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184542 Fri, 23 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184542 Westhampton Beach Middle School thespians are set to present “The Fairytale Court Room” on Friday, Jan. 23, at 7 p.m. in the district’s auditorium. Tickets are free. The 23 middle school cast and crew members are excited to perform the show that appeals to children and adults with famous villains who are put on trial. The audience must decide if they are innocent or guilty. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184543 Thu, 22 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184543 Westhampton Beach Elementary School fourth graders learned about the life and history of Native Americans during a Journeys into American Indian Territory program on Jan. 21. During the event, students explored Native American artifacts such as clothing, dolls and pottery and listened to traditional stories. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184541 Wed, 21 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184541 Fifth grade students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School captivated audiences with their performance of “Joust,” a retelling of the legend of King Arthur and the sword in the stone, but with a twist! Music teacher Alexandra Gogas, who directed the production, said she selected it because it “is a fun show that carries a message about not resorting to violence to solve problems and using peaceful strategies can have a better outcome.” The production featured 35 cast and crew members who worked hard to perfect a performance that was enjoyed by all. Date Added: 1/16/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184518 Fri, 16 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184518 Westhampton Beach High School has earned a place on the College Board’s AP School Honor Roll with a Gold level status for the 2024-2025 school year. This is the third year in a row that the school has earned the distinction. To earn the recognition, 65% or more of the graduating class took at least one AP exam, 35% or more scored a 3 or higher on at least one AP exam, and 5% or more took five or more AP exams during high school. The distinction honors the school for its ability to provide students with opportunities to earn college credit and for maximizing college readiness. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184511 Wed, 14 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184511 Westhampton Beach High School’s music and theater students recently enjoyed an unforgettable evening on Broadway, attending a performance of “Hadestown” in New York City. For many students, this marked their first experience seeing a Broadway production, making it a truly special opportunity to witness professional live theater and music at the highest level. Date Added: 1/12/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184488 Mon, 12 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184488 The Westhampton Beach School District is now registering children for the 2026-2027 school year. To be eligible, students must be 5 years old as of Dec. 1, 2026. In-person registration will be held at Westhampton Beach Elementary School on Thursday, Jan. 29, from 9-11 a.m., 1:30-2:30 p.m. and 5:30-6:30 p.m. Registration packets and additional information are available online at the following link. Please click here for registration packet and additional information. For questions, please call 631-288-3800, ext. 231. Date Added: 1/9/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184486 Fri, 09 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184486 Westhampton Beach High School senior varsity cheerleader Emily Edwards was named to Newsday’s Top 50 Long Island Cheerleaders list. Emily, a side base, was recognized for her exceptional versatility, leadership, strength and passion. Date Added: 1/9/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184487 Fri, 09 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184487 Westhampton Beach High School’s Virtual Enterprise firm participated in the 10th annual East End Networking Event, held at Atlantis Sea Star Ballroom in Riverhead. The program, organized by business teacher Amy Demchak, brought together students from across Long Island to demonstrate their entrepreneurial skills. This year’s event featured participation from 29 school districts. VE students showcased their innovative virtual businesses at trade show-style tables, complete with marketing and sales materials. The event emphasized the value of networking and public speaking, as each firm delivered an elevator pitch to the audience in the ballroom. Westhampton Beach’s VE firm, Vervida, marketed self-sustaining indoor gardening planters. Date Added: 1/5/2026 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184446 Mon, 05 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT false184446 Jason Cohen, the district’s director of health, physical education and athletics, proudly announces that the following students, teams and coaches have received postseason recognition for their participation in the fall sports program. Multiple Westhampton Beach fall student-athletes earned designation as All-State, All-Island, All-County, All-Division, All-League and All-Conference in their respective sports. Boys Golf All-League: Nico Arena, Zach Berger, Benny Persutti and Danny Schumacher All-County: Zach Berger (champion) and Danny Schumacher All-State: Zach Berger and Danny Schumacher All-Conference, All-Division: Nico Arena, Zach Berger, Benny Persutti and Danny Schumacher Girls Tennis All-County: Gabriela Arango, Diana Elliott, Zoe Grellet-Aumont, Riley Magner, Madeline Montgomery and Ana Way All-Conference, All-Division: Ali Brandi, Abigail Gomez, Grace Hart and Blake Rudolph Boys Soccer All-League: Jonathan Chamale and Jayson Recinos-Gregorio All-Conference, All-Division: Charlie Schwenker All-Academic: Markus Rahbari Girls Soccer All-League: Khloe Hoda Boys Cross-Country All-League: Jonathan Marden, Partick Reily, Levi Salvi and Filip Sanczenko All-Conference, All-Division: Jonathan Marden and Filip Sanczenko Girls Volleyball All-Tournament: Chloe Webb All-Classification: Jasmine Taylor All-League: Lila Davin, Reilly Maloney and Emma O’Came Top 100 Volleyball Players, Long Island: Katie Burke and Emma O'Came All-Academic, Exceptional Senior: Emma O’Came All-State, All-County, League 5 Player of the Year: Katie Burke Boys Volleyball All-County: Jude Allen and Cameron Giordano All-Conference, All-Division: Gabriel Monserrate and Nolan Parsons All-Division Honorable Mention: Luca Caumartin, Thomas Livia and Grayden Scott All-Long Island, 2nd Team: Cameron Giordano All-Academic: Cameron Giordano and Nathaniel Methven Football All-County: Nicholas Simone All-Conference, All-Division: Andrew Lewis, Benjamin Magee, Johnpaul Peters and Nicholas Simone All-Division, Second Team: Liam Brand, Patrick Fay and Nat LoGelfo All-Academic, NFF Scholar Athlete: Nicholas Simone Girls Game Day Cheer All-Classification: Emily Flynn All-County Academic: Brooke Huwer Date Added: 12/23/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184445 Tue, 23 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184445 As part of their annual toy drive, members of the Westhampton Beach Elementary School Student Council have been collecting donations throughout the month of December. All of the items collected will be donated to those in need. Date Added: 12/22/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184431 Mon, 22 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184431 Westhampton Beach High School athlete Truman Hahn was once again named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Boys Basketball Players list. Hahn, a senior guard, was honored for leading Westhampton Beach to a playoff game by averaging 12.1 to 15.5 points per game last season. The district congratulates him on a job well done. Date Added: 12/19/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184422 Fri, 19 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184422 Westhampton Beach High School girls basketball players Sandra Clarke, Kate Sweet and Jasmine Taylor were named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Girls Basketball Players list. Clarke, a senior, was named for averaging 15 points, 10 rebounds and three steals per game; Sweet, a junior, was recognized for averaging 12 points, four rebounds and six steals last season; and Taylor, a senior, earned her spot on the list for averaging 12 points and 10 rebounds. The district extends its congratulations to all three athletes. Date Added: 12/18/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184421 Thu, 18 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184421 Westhampton Beach High School student-musician Emmy Shea, a senior soprano, recently performed in the mixed chorus at the All-State Festival of the New York State School Music Association Winter Conference in Rochester. Shea was selected for the ensemble based on her scores at the NYSSMA Solo Evaluation Festival, teacher recommendations and ranking. She is also a valued member of her school’s symphonic and chamber choirs. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Shea for her hard work and dedication. Date Added: 12/17/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184420 Wed, 17 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184420 Westhampton Beach Middle School recently welcomed more than 130 kindergarten students from Westhampton Beach Elementary and sending districts — East Quogue, Remsenburg-Speonk, and Quogue— for a two-hour interactive Dental Health Day. The event paired eighth graders with kindergarten “buddies” for a morning of learning and hands-on activities designed to promote healthy habits and build meaningful cross-age connections. The program expanded on the middle school’s popular Pillow Pocket Project, led by Kathleen Ciancio, family and consumer sciences teacher, which debuted last year. Eighth grade FACS students worked with their first grade buddies to create a pillow design on paper. The middle schoolers then worked for six weeks constructing a pillow reflecting their buddy’s design. They brought the pillow designs to life by cutting fabric, pinning and operating a sewing machine. Once complete, the middle school students’ hand-delivered the pillows to their excited buddies. This year, the initiative grew into a larger, meaningful community service-learning experience. The event began with a special presentation by Dr. Victor Grazina, who taught students about proper dental hygiene and the importance of lifelong healthy habits. Following the presentation, buddy pairs rotated through a series of themed stations, including: games, a dental hygiene demo with Oric the Service Dog, who showed students how he “brushes” his teeth; book circles, where an eighth grader read a dental-themed story to the kindergarten buddies; a healthy snack station that reinforced nutritious choices and fun crafts connected to dental health. Kindergarteners also worked with their eighth grade buddy to create their pillow pocket design. “This was an exciting and rewarding experience for everyone involved,” said Ciancio. “Our eighth graders gained the opportunity to mentor younger students and the kindergarteners — future eighth graders themselves —got to explore the school in a fun, supportive way.” Date Added: 12/15/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184409 Mon, 15 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184409 The Westhampton Beach School District Board of Education has appointed Dr. Alexandra Greenberg as one of the district’s new assistant high school principals. She has been serving as an interim assistant principal at the high school since August. “The district is thrilled that Dr. Greenberg will continue to serve at the high school,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. “She has already proven her dedication to our students, and we are looking forward to her future accomplishments.” Dr. Greenberg, of Shoreham, joined Westhampton Beach after serving as principal of George W. Hewlett High School in the Hewlett-Woodmere School District from 2022-2025. Her prior administrative roles included assistant principal at Hampton Bays High School and a high school administrator and director of mathematics in the Ossining School District. She also served as coordinator of math and science professional development at Southern Westchester BOCES in Harrison, New York. She began her career as a mathematics teacher in the New York City Public Schools at the middle and high school levels. Dr. Greenberg holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Science from Brooklyn College, a Master of Science from the College of New Rochelle and her doctorate from Manhattanville College. “Being appointed assistant principal at Westhampton Beach High School is an honor, and I am proud to contribute to a community so deeply committed to academic and athletic excellence, student well-being and meaningful partnerships,” said Dr. Greenberg. Date Added: 12/11/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184392 Thu, 11 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184392 The Westhampton Beach High School varsity cheer team is heading to the UCA High School Cheerleading Nationals at the ESPN Wide World of Sports in Orlando, Jan. 29-Feb 2. This marks the second time in the program’s history that the team has qualified for nationals. “We are very proud of the team and the wonderful job that their coach has done,” said Jason Cohen, director of athletics. The team earned the coveted spot by placing in the top three in their division at the UCA Regional Competition, a milestone that reflects their hard work, dedication and teamwork. “I am so proud of these girls,” said coach Alexa Bennett-Roseman. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the team: Ariel Alvarado, Colbie Canty, Abigail Cooper, Emily Edwards, Kennedy Fives, Emily Flynn, Mariah Gilliam, Sophia Guzman, Adrienne Hardin, Mariana Ramos, Aryes Saldierna, Khloe Salerno, Kara Salvaggio, Katherine Sattler, Danika Schneyer and Mariam Soyos. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184376 Tue, 09 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184376 Westhampton Beach High School senior Topher Ramos has combined academic excellence with remarkable musical ability to earn recognition as a rising pianist showcased in Manhattan School of Music’s Precollege performances. Most recently, Ramos performed at the conservatory’s gala before an audience of accomplished musicians and was provided an opportunity to speak about his experiences with the Precollege program. The program has offered him numerous opportunities, he said. Last year, he received the prestigious distinction among his peers to perform with the Manhattan School of Music Precollege Philharmonic Orchestra. He studies privately at the conservatory under Carmel Lowenthal and has taken classes and lessons every Saturday since the seventh grade. Ramos, who has been playing the piano since the age of 3, also shares his musical talent by accompanying his school’s chorus on the piano and singing as a member of the group. When not playing the piano or singing, Ramos serves as an editor of his school’s publication, Seascapes. He is also a member of the National Honor Society and an AP Scholar. Outside of school, he volunteers with the Westhampton Ambulance Junior Company. He plans to continue his musical journey in college this fall and study the business side of the music industry. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Topher Ramos on his musical achievements. Click here to listen to the performance. Date Added: 12/4/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184340 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184340 The Westhampton Beach School District Board of Education has appointed Alyssa Tracey as its new assistant high school principal, effective Jan. 5. “The district is pleased to announce the appointment of Alyssa Tracey,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. “Her expertise and dedication to educational excellence will serve our students and staff well.” Tracey, of Port Jefferson Station, joins the Westhampton Beach School District from Oceanside High School, where she served as the dean of students. She was previously a summer school assistant principal and administrative intern at Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School. She started her career at the same school as an English and ENL teacher. She has also taught English at Bellport High School. Tracey holds a Bachelor of Arts in English secondary education from St. Joseph’s University, a Master of Arts in teaching English to speakers of other languages from Long Island University, a Master of Arts in special education with an annotation in severe and multiple disabilities from St. Joseph’s University and a post-master’s graduate certificate in educational leadership from Stony Brook University. “I am honored to join the Westhampton Beach community and am eager to support the district’s proud tradition of excellence,” said Tracey. “I am committed to fostering meaningful growth and expanding opportunities that enable all students to reach their fullest potential.” Date Added: 12/3/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184339 Wed, 03 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184339 Five Westhampton Beach High School students recently participated in the League of Women Voters of the Hamptons, Shelter Island and North Fork’s annual Running and Winning Workshop, joining peers from across the East End to explore careers in public service and civic leadership. During the daylong event, Tess Ashley, Addison Celi, Emily Edwards, Kara Flynn and Nico Grazina heard from local school board members about how they became involved in local politics. They also interviewed the panelists on topics such as seeking and holding office. The event continued with students working in groups to design a campaign and present on issues they would like to see addressed by local school boards. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184321 Mon, 01 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184321 Sixteen Westhampton Beach High School senior athletes penned their names to letters of intent during a recent college signing ceremony. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following students: Dagny Beasly, lacrosse, Williams College Zach Berger, golf, Loyola University Maiya Boughal, lacrosse, Dartmouth College Cooper Daniels, baseball, St. Thomas Aquinas College Ava Derby, lacrosse, University of Maryland Caeden Dorn, lacrosse, Long Island University Ava Failla, lacrosse, Drexel University Mia Hill, track and field, Harding University Khloe Hoda, soccer, Marymount University Bailey Hudson, lacrosse, St. Michaels College Lily Johnson, lacrosse, SUNY Cortland Tom Machin, baseball, Mitchell College Benjamin Magee, football, Endicott College Riley Maire, lacrosse, Marywood University George Ostensen, lacrosse, Western Connecticut State University Dan Shannon, lacrosse, Salve Regina University Date Added: 11/17/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184245 Mon, 17 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184245 Westhampton Beach High School students participated in a series of engaging activities during Red Ribbon Week. As part of the week’s events, representatives from the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office visited the school to facilitate a drunk driving simulation. The experience offered students a realistic and impactful look at the dangers and consequences of impaired driving. Also during the week, the school’s CURE Club hosted a can collection and recycling event and students wrote positive, drug-free messages on red paper strips during their English classes. The strips were then linked to form a long chain that is displayed in the high school library. Date Added: 11/14/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184239 Fri, 14 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184239 Several Westhampton Beach High School students recently volunteered to assist at a community food pantry fundraiser. The dinner was a collaborative effort organized by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Westhampton, the Westhampton Rotary Club and the Father Slomski Chapter of the Knights of Columbus. Students helped serve meals, greet guests and assist with event logistics throughout the evening. All proceeds from the event were donated directly to the Westhampton Food Pantry, helping to provide food to local families in need. Date Added: 11/13/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184231 Thu, 13 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184231 In recognition of Veterans Day, Westhampton Beach Middle School proudly welcomed local veterans for a celebration recognizing their service and sacrifice. During the event, students had the opportunity to meet and speak with veterans from various branches of the U.S. military. The guests shared personal stories, answered questions and offered insights into their experiences serving the country. Date Added: 11/12/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184230 Wed, 12 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184230 Westhampton Beach Elementary School paid tribute to local veterans with a third annual ceremony on Nov. 7. During the event, students learned about the history of Veterans Day, met local veterans from all branches of the military and heard from guest speaker Sergeant First Class Ralph Beaver. To culminate the ceremony, students sang a thank you song to veterans. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184216 Mon, 10 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184216 Ten students were inducted into the Westhampton Beach High School National Honor Society during a recent ceremony. The new members were inducted in recognition of their demonstrated excellence in service, character, scholarship and leadership. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Trevor Cangelosi, Hudson Caruso, Leonardo DePierro, Abigail Gomez, Matthew Hernandez, Bailey Hudson, Thomas LaMura, Thomas Machin, Hannah Perez and Shannon Simonetta. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184152 Tue, 04 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184152 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students brought the spirit of the season to life on Oct. 31 during the school’s annual costume parade. Donning creative costumes — from princesses and superheroes to spooky favorites — students and teachers marched around the school’s fields waving to families and friends as festive Halloween music played in the background. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184180 Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184180 Westhampton Beach High School is excited to present its production of “Shakespeare in Love” on Friday, Nov. 7, and Saturday, Nov. 8, at 7 p.m. and on Sunday, Nov. 9, at 2 p.m. Tickets are free. The fall play, based on the screenplay by Marc Norman and Tom Stoppard, was selected for its fun scipt, large cast and and recognizable name. Directed by Kimet Speed, the show will feature a cast of 25 talented students who are ready to entertain audiences. Date Added: 10/28/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184140 Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT false184140 Proposition 1: Passed Yes: 216 No: 66 Proposition 2: Passed Yes: 181 No: 98 Thank you to the community for your continued support! Date Added: 10/29/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184148 Wed, 29 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT false184148 The Westhampton Beach School District Board of Education has promoted Kerry Pillittier as its new director of student services. “Ms. Pillittier has consistently demonstrated a commitment to supporting the academic and emotional success of every student,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. “Her leadership, expertise and compassion make her an exceptional choice for this role, and we are confident that she will continue to strengthen the services available to our students and families.” Pillittier, of Lake Ronkonkoma, has served as a Westhampton Beach High School assistant principal since 2020. In that role, she assisted with the daily operations of the school and led integral initiatives to improve student attendance; promoted mental health through the No Place for Hate program; and implemented mental health team meetings to support students. She also partnered with the district’s elementary and middle schools to connect high school students with younger students. She previously served as the director of adult and continuing education and a mathematics teacher at Bethpage High School. Pillittier holds a Bachelor of Arts in mathematics with a secondary education concentration from St. Joseph’s College, a Master of Liberal Studies with a coaching concentration from Stony Brook University and an educational leadership certification from the College of Saint Rose. I’m incredibly honored and excited to step into the role of director of student services,” said Pillittier. “This new opportunity allows me to connect with and support staff across our entire district. I look forward to working collaboratively to promote the success and well-being of every student we serve.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184111 Fri, 24 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT false184111 The Westhampton Beach High School girls varsity soccer team recently wrapped up a successful Kicks for Cancer fundraiser and awareness campaign. Through teamwork, the players raised $2,000 for the cause by collecting donations and wearing pink during a recent game to help spread awareness. In addition, the team supported Peter’s Packages, a new community service initiative founded by student Elizabeth Sultan in memory of her father. Date Added: 10/23/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184097 Thu, 23 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT false184097 Seventy-two Westhampton Beach High School students were recently inducted into the school’s math (M), science (S) and world language (W) honor societies during an induction ceremony. To be accepted, students must maintain a 92% average overall in coursework of that discipline and challenge themselves with rigorous AP/college-level courses. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following students: Mia Albinson (S, M, W), Jude Allen (M), Sofia Amodemo (S), Jack Ardito (W), Tess Ashley (S, M, W), Priscila Barros Ribeiro (S, M, W), Dagny Beasley (M, W), Aidyn Beebe-Edwards (S), Zachary Berger (W), Maiya Boughal (S, M, W), Trevor Cangelosi (S), Mynor Chacon-Fuentes (S, M, W), Sandra Clarke (S, M, W), Ava Combuechen (M, W), Kannon Davis (S, M), Leonardo DePierro (W), Alexa Detke (S, W), Katherine DeVerna (W), Morgan DeVerna (W), Jenna DiDomenico (S, M, W), Caeden Dorn (S, M, W), Scarlett Doyle (W), Verona Easton (S, M, W), Emily Edwards (S, M, W), Diana Elliott (S, M, W), Levi Emerson (S, M), Ava Failla (S, M, W), Kara Flynn (S, W), Diane Georgieva (W), Cameron Giordano (S, M), Luke Gobler (S, W), Abigail Gomez (M, W), Nicholas Gomez (M, W), Eleanor Greiner (M, W), Lucas Hefter (S, W), Matthew Hernandez (M, W), Mackenzie Herrera (W), Emilia Hill (W), Khloe Hoda (S, M, W), Bailey Hudson (W), Brooke Huwer (S, M, W), Aidan Judd (S, M), Lauren Kelly (S, M, W), Mitchell Li (S, M, W), Scarlett Maag (W), Joshua McCarthy (S, M), Nathaniel Methven (M, W), Tessa Mongelluzzo (W), Annabelle Najdzion (S, M, W), George Nikolopoulos (M, W), Emma O'Came (S, M, W), Selin Ozkazanc (S, M, W), Hannah Perez (W), Ashley Perez-Sanchez (W), Nathan Perl (S, M, W), Jacob Permakoff (M, W), Olivia Purta (M, W), Christopher Ramos (S, M, W), Constantine Reilly (S, M, W), John Reilly (M, W), Delaney Ruga (W), Brady Schultz (S, M, W), Emmy Shea (W), Sarah Simonetta (W), Shannon Simonetta (W), Julia Sobhani (S, M, W), Noor Sohail (S, M, W), Samara Takemoto (W), Angela Tran (S, M, W), Emma Vaz (S, M, W), Ana Way (S, M, W) and Zoe Wood (M, W). https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184089 Wed, 22 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT false184089 The Westhampton Beach School District Board of Education has proposed two bond referendums aimed at maintaining a safe environment for students and staff, improving facilities, complying with state mandates and protecting the community’s investment in our district. The projects are all based on recommendations from the facilities committee. The vote is taking place Tuesday, October 28 from 7 a.m.-9 p.m. at Westhampton Beach High School. Click here for more information. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184083 Tue, 21 Oct 2025 13:00:00 GMT false184083 Eighty-eight Westhampton Beach High School seniors, dressed in their best, learned more about the careers they hope to pursue during the 22nd annual Senior Skills Breakfast held at the Westhampton Beach Country Club on Oct. 17. During the breakfast, area professionals served as mentors to the ambitious students in attendance. The professionals shared their knowledge, experience and advice with the students, who were also able to ask questions. Date Added: 10/21/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184086 Tue, 21 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT false184086 In recognition of Fire Prevention Week, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students took part in hands-on fire safety lessons led by members of the Westhampton Beach Fire Department. Students learned important fire safety practices, including how to use smoke alarms and fire extinguishers, when to call 911 and how to safely exit through a window using the department’s smoke house simulator. Date Added: 10/17/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184074 Fri, 17 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT false184074 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students made fundraising bubble-rific this fall by raising more than $25,000 through an exciting Bubble Run and Raise Craze fundraiser. The creative fundraiser combined fitness, fun and kindness. Students secured sponsorships to participate in a lively Bubble Run and collected donations by committing to perform acts of kindness throughout their community. Their good deeds included sharing positive messages with classmates and staff, collecting nonperishable food donations and creating a positivity path at their school that features inspiring messages. The funds will be used to help fund field trips, special events and equipment for the school’s greenhouse and STEM lab. Date Added: 10/16/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184065 Thu, 16 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT false184065 The Westhampton Beach School District Board of Education has appointed Jessica Weinberg as its new assistant principal for elementary curriculum at Westhampton Beach Elementary School, effective Oct. 27. “We are thrilled to welcome Jessica Weinberg to our district,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. “She brings a strong background as an ENL educator and has a passion for fostering inclusive, multilingual learning environments. She will be an incredible asset to our district.” Weinberg, of Stony Brook, joins the Westhampton Beach School District from the South Country School District, where she served as the district’s dual language coordinator for grades K-7. In that role, she led and supported the district’s dual language programs and curriculum for over 1,000 multilingual learners. She started in the district as a lead ENL educator at Brookhaven Elementary School in 2007 and was also the school’s dual language and ENL instructional coach for grades K-3. She has also led numerous professional development initiatives related to ENL and dual language education. Weinberg holds a Bachelor of Arts in multidisciplinary studies, a Master of Arts in teaching English to speakers of other languages and a post-master’s graduate certificate in educational leadership from Stony Brook University. “I am overjoyed to join the Hurricane family as assistant principal for elementary curriculum,” said Weinberg. “I look forward to partnering with [Principal] Dr. Garritano in building on the goals of our school and district, nurturing strong relationships with staff and families, and providing meaningful leadership. Together, we will support academic excellence, inspire a love of learning, and help every student grow into a kind, curious and thoughtful global citizen.” Date Added: 10/14/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184043 Tue, 14 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT false184043 The Westhampton Beach School District Board of Education has promoted JoAnne Williams as its new director of pupil personnel services. “JoAnne has demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism and a deep passion for education,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. “We are thrilled to see her take on this administrative role, which we are confident will benefit the district's students and staff.” Williams, of Hampton Bays, joined the Westhampton Beach School District in 1998, teaching special education at the high school level. She has also served as the special education department coordinator and chairperson of the Committee of Special Education. Prior to joining the district, Williams taught ESL students at Oleai Elementary School in Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands. Williams holds a Bachelor of Arts in child study and special education from St. Joseph’s College and a Master of Arts in literacy from LIU Southampton. Date Added: 10/10/2025 “This is my 27th year in the district, and I have witnessed firsthand the incredible talent, care and dedication of our faculty, professionals and staff,” said Williams. “My goal is to continue collaborating closely with our team, families and students to provide the highest-quality educational experiences for students at Westhampton Beach.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184029 Fri, 10 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT false184029 Energy and excitement swept through the Westhampton Beach School District as students, staff and the community celebrated homecoming during the week of Sept. 29. Themed spirit week festivities, including an annual pep rally, led to a much-anticipated homecoming football game under the lights on Oct. 3. The Hurricanes brought their A-game, taking on Half Hollow Hills West in front of a packed crowd. Cheers echoed through the stands as the Hurricanes powered their way to a 35-18 victory, capping off a week of pride and spirit. Date Added: 10/6/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=184005 Mon, 06 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT false184005 The Westhampton Beach School District is celebrating an academic milestone, earning an impressive top school ranking by Niche for 2026. The district advanced to No. 7 in Suffolk County, up from No. 8 last year, and rose to No. 46 in New York State, up from No. 50. The recognition highlights the district’s continued commitment to academic excellence in areas including academic performance, teacher quality, student diversity and feedback from students and parents. The district earned an overall grade of A+. “Climbing in the rankings affirms the hard work happening every day across our schools,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. “We remain committed to providing outstanding opportunities that inspire and prepare our students for the future.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183983 Tue, 30 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183983 The Westhampton Beach School District inducted two new members — Mark Raynor and Lynn Schwartz — to its Wall of Fame during a ceremony on Sept. 26. The pair now join 30 previously inducted members. Mark Raynor is being posthumously awarded for exemplifying the spirit of service and dedication that defines Westhampton Beach. He was a four-year varsity football starter from 1968-1972 and competed in wrestling and baseball. His commitment to community began at 18 when he joined the Westhampton Beach Fire Department, where he served for 39 years as volunteer and as chief from 1989-1992. As a Southampton Town police officer for 15 years, he earned the 1992 New York State Police Officer of the Year award for his heroic rescue of a family from their burning home. After a line-of-duty injury ended his career in law enforcement, he continued to serve as a Westhampton Beach Village trustee for six terms and as deputy mayor from 1995-2005. His Hurricane pride never wavered — he became a beloved fixture at every football game, standing in his signature spot in the visitors’ bleachers to cheer on his sons and countless other Hurricane athletes. Raynor dedicated his life to protecting, serving and supporting the Westhampton Beach community until his passing in 2012, leaving behind a legacy of selfless service and unwavering Hurricane spirit. Lynn Schwartz dedicated nearly two decades of exceptional service to the Westhampton Beach School District, beginning as a beloved social studies teacher and coach before ascending to assistant superintendent and ultimately superintendent for 10 transformative years. Under his visionary leadership, the district flourished academically and physically, with Schwartz successfully securing multiple bond initiatives that modernized facilities across all three schools, including new science labs, an auditorium, a gymnasium and a state-of-the-art turf field. His unwavering belief that all students can achieve excellence led to dramatic increases in Regents diploma rates, as well as expanded Advanced Placement offerings and innovative programs that prepared students for college success. Beyond academics, Schwartz fostered unprecedented community engagement through coffee hours, advisory committees and the Hurricane Education Foundation while maintaining the district’s financial health and establishing lasting partnerships. Selected as Westhampton Beach High School’s Man of the Year by the Class of 1984, his legacy lives on in the enhanced educational opportunities and modern facilities that continue to serve Westhampton Beach students today. The Westhampton Beach School District’s Wall of Fame was established in 2002 and memorializes extraordinary achievements of Westhampton Beach alumni, as well as former faculty and staff members. Click here to submit a nomination. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183957 Fri, 26 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183957 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior boys volleyball player Cameron Giordano for being named to Newsday’s Top 50 Long Island Boys Volleyball Players list. Giordano earned the recognition as a returning All-Long Island second team selection and after recording 285 assists and 68 kills last season. Go Hurricanes! Date Added: 9/25/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183924 Thu, 25 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183924 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior girls volleyball players Katie Burke and Emma O’Came for being named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Girls Volleyball Players list. Burke earned her place on the list for tallying 204 kills, 150 digs, 25 blocks and 15 aces last season. O’Came was recognized for her 257 assists and 73 digs. Go Hurricanes! Date Added: 9/24/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183925 Wed, 24 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183925 Westhampton Beach High School seniors Brady Schultz and Julia Sobhani were impressively named semifinalists in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program. The pair are among 16,000 students across the nation competing for $28 million in scholarships. Equally remarkable, Lauren Kelly and Christopher Ramos have been recognized as Commended Students. The seniors earned their titles by placing among the top students who entered the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2024 PSAT. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the seniors on this achievement. Date Added: 9/22/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183916 Mon, 22 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183916 An impressive 152 Westhampton Beach High School students received special Advanced Placement designations based on achievement in college-level coursework. To earn AP Scholar recognition, students are required to score a 3 or higher on three or more AP exams; for Scholar with Honor, they must earn a 3.25 on all AP exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of those exams; and for Scholar with Distinction, they must receive an average score of 3.5 on all AP exams and grades of 4 or higher on five or more of those exams. Additionally, 41 students have earned an AP Capstone diploma, and 12 students received an AP Seminar and Research Certificate. The district congratulates the following students: AP Scholars Emily Ardito, Maximilian Atkinson, Tyler Bennett, Zachary Berger, Dylan Blenk, Liam Boerner, Reagan Brewer, Mia Brown, Hayden Calhoun, Charlotte Campbell, Trevor Cangelosi, Hudson Caruso, Avery Celi, Hailey Cuzco, Lila Davin, Max De Bellis, Leonardo Debellis, Mia Dermody, Morgan DeVerna, Brendan Dunn, Diana Elliott, Emmanuel Gomez, Lauren Glynn, Luke Gobler, Magnus Haynia, Lukas Hefter, Mackenzie Herrera, Emilia Hill, Emma Rose Holfelder, Adam Iqbal, Thomas LaMura, Kate Lynch, Scarlett Maag, Benjamin Magee, Sienna Meyer, Amanda Michne, Diara Mirzaeva, Erik Olsson, James Ostensen, Beren Ozgurcag, Caden Padavan, Riley Parkes, Lucas Patton, Jack Pazera, Phineas Pendergast, Hannah Perez, Evelyn Perez-Mucia, Jacob Permakoff, Olivia Purta, John Reily, Priscila Ribeiro, Avery Riling, Michelle Rodriguez, Delaney Ruga, Bela Ruggiero, Jennifer Santiago, Liam Sarian, Sarah Simonetta, Adison Smith, Ava Sommer, Kate Sweet, Noah Volk, Adrian Vuik AP Scholars with Honor Ella Anthony, Elhani Armijos, Leandro Esquivel, August Feldman, Nicole Fink, Daphne Garcia, Olivia Gonzalez, Jay Graves, Khloe Hoda, Bailey Hudson, Sophie Krzywda, Woo Lee, Aimee Lindahl, Johanna Marron, Lily Mensch, Nathaniel Methven, Tesa Mongelluzzo, Angel Oregon, Imanol Osorio, Markus Rahbari, Rafael Remetta, Marin Schwartz AP Scholars with Distinction Mia Albinson, Tes Ashley, Alexandra Barry, Dagny Beasley, Sarah Beckmann, Lily Blenk, Maiya Boughal, Christian Bruschi, Hudson Caruso, Lea Cavaliere, Mynor Chacon-Fuentes, Sandra Clarke, Ava Combuechen, Kannon Davis, Alexa Detke, Jenna Di Domenico, Caeden Dorn, Scarlett Doyle, Verona Easton, Emily Edwards, Levi Emerson, Ava Faila, Kara Flynn, Evangelia Gaetano, Brett Geller, Diane Georgieva, Cameron Giordano, Abigail Gomez, Nicholas Gomez, Nico Grazina, Eleanor Greiner, Zoe Grellet-Aumont, Abigail Halloran, Matthew Hernandez, Brooke Huwer, Aidan Judd, Lauren Kely, Mitchell Li, Charles LoRusso, Joshua McCarthy, David Meyers, Gabriel Monserrate, Annabelle Najdzion, George Nikolopoulos, Emma O'Came, Selin Ozkazanc, Nathan Perl, Adam Poulmentis, Markus Rahbari, Christopher Ramos, Constantine Reily, John Reilly, Blake Rudolph, Katherine Sattler, Brady Schultz, Alexander Sfyroeras, Grace Smith, Julia Sobhani, Noor Sohail, Elizabeth Sultan, Samara Takemoto, Angela Tran, Emma Vaz, Pablo Velez, Ana Way AP Capstone Diploma Mia Albinson, Tes Ashley, Dagny Beasley, Maiya Boughal, Reagan Brewer, Christian Bruschi, Mynor Chacon-Fuentes, Sandra Clarke, Ava Combuechen, Kannon Davis, Alexa Detke, Jenna Di Domenico, Emily Edwards, Diana Elliott, Leandro Esquivel, Ava Faila, Kara Flynn, Diane Georgieva, Abigail Gomez, Nicholas Gomez, Jay Graves, Eleanor Greiner, Mackenzie Herrera, Brooke Huwer, Aidan Judd, Nathaniel Methven, Joshua McCarthy, Tesa Mongelluzzo, Annabelle Najdzion, George Nikolopoulos, Emma O'Came, Selin Ozkazanc, Nathan Perl, Constantine Reily, John Reilly, Brady Schultz, Julia Sobhani, Noor Sohail, Angela Tran, Emma Vaz, Ana Way AP Seminar and Research Certificate Aidyn Beebe-Edwards, Zachary Berger, Trevor Cangelosi, Morgan DeVerna, Lauren Glynn, Luke Gobler, Lukas Hefter, Thomas LaMura, Kate Lynch, Sienna Meyer, Jack Pazera, Ashley Sciortino https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183915 Fri, 19 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183915 Nine impressive Westhampton Beach High School student-musicians have been selected as performers for the New York State Council of Administrators of Music Education 2025 All-County Music Festival. Alexandra Barry (alto), Aidan Judd (bass), Jordan Kolsin (tenor) and Brady Schultz (tenor) will perform with the mixed chorus. Emmy Shea (soprano) will be part of the treble chorus. Bella Ruggiero (piccolo) will perform in the orchestra, and Brett Geller (horn), Brady Schultz (alto saxophone) and Elizabeth Sultan (horn) will play with the band. The students were selected for the ensembles based on their scores at the NYSSMA Solo Evaluation Festival, teacher recommendations and ranking. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the musicians for their hard work and dedication. Date Added: 9/17/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183911 Thu, 18 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183911 Two talented Westhampton Beach High School student-musicians have been selected to perform at the All-State Festival of the 2025 New York State School Music Association Winter Conference, and three were named as alternates. Brady Schultz, a tenor, and Emmy Shea, a soprano, will perform with the mixed chorus. Brett Geller, Aidan Judd and Bella Ruggiero, who play horn, bass and piccolo, respectively, were named as alternates to the symphonic band. The students were selected for the ensembles based on their scores at the NYSSMA Solo Evaluation Festival, teacher recommendations and ranking. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the musicians for their hard work and dedication. Date Added: 9/17/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183910 Wed, 17 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183910 The Westhampton Beach School District proudly congratulates senior Patrick Fay and junior Jake Calloway, who were named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Football Players list. Fay was named to the list for his defensive strength by making 33 tackles and an interception last fall. Calloway earned recognition for his impressive play by throwing 600 yards, making four touchdowns and running 400 yards and 10 scores in six games last season. Way to go, Hurricanes! Date Added: 9/15/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183896 Mon, 15 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183896 Date Added: 9/15/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183893 Mon, 15 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183893 The Westhampton Beach School District is proud to announce the induction of seven outstanding educators and staff members into its prestigious Quarter of a Century Club, an honor reserved for employees who have dedicated 25 years of service to the district and its students. Each honoree has made a lasting impact through their commitment to education and helped strengthen the district’s tradition of excellence. Congratulations to the newest club members: Carrie Bender, Carole Braithwaite, Michelle Donahue, Sherry Marks, Kathryn Sweet, Heather Tomich and John Vahle. Date Added: 9/5/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183857 Fri, 05 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183857 Students across the Westhampton School District eagerly arrived back at school for the 2025-2026 school year on Sept. 2. As they entered their schools, students were greeted by teachers and administrators, who helped usher them into their respective classrooms. Once inside, they quickly became acquainted with their new teachers, routines and schedules. “We are very much looking forward to providing students with a positive and inspiring school year filled with educational growth and discovery,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. Date Added: 9/2/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183832 Tue, 02 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183832 Date Added: 9/2/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183774 Tue, 02 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183774 Date Added: 8/19/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183768 Tue, 19 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183768 The New York State Public High School Athletic Association has once again named Westhampton Beach High School a Scholar-Athlete School of Distinction for the 2024-25 school year. To earn this recognition, an impressive 100% of the school’s varsity athletic teams were required to hold a GPA above 90%. Westhampton Beach is among 110 schools to receive this noteworthy designation. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates its varsity teams on an outstanding job. Date Added: 7/25/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183705 Fri, 25 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183705 Westhampton Beach students are spending their summer mornings engaging in learning activities as part of the district’s summer recreation and academy program, which runs through the month of July. During the four-week program, held at Westhampton Beach High School, students in grades K-8 participate in a wide variety of fun activities, including crafts, computers, science and sports. The summer program also provides an opportunity for students to hone their English language arts and math skills and for incoming kindergartners to get acquainted with a school setting. High school students volunteer to assist with the program. Date Added: 7/24/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183701 Thu, 24 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183701 Date Added: 7/23/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183696 Wed, 23 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183696 Date Added: 7/3/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183629 Thu, 03 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183629 Jason Cohen, director of health, physical education and athletics for the Westhampton Beach School District, proudly announces that the following students, teams and coaches have received postseason recognition for their participation in the fall sports program. Multiple Westhampton Beach spring student-athletes earned designation as All-State, All-Island, All-County, All-Division, All-League and All-Conference in their respective sports. Baseball Team Awards: Scholar Athlete Team All-League: Cooper Daniels All-Academic: Shane Paulos-Jennerich Boys Tennis Team Awards: Scholar Athlete Team All-County: Bryce Groth, Giancarlo Volpe All-Division: Brady Schultz, Alessandro Imundi, Matt Moran, Emmanuel Gomez All-State: Newsday’s All-Long Island: Giancarlo Volpe Softball Team Awards: Scholar Athlete Team All-League: Lila Davin, Evelyn Kuroski All-Division: Kayla Blair All-County: Katie Burke Boys Lacrosse All-County: Finn Drake, Charlie Beasley All-County Honorable Mention: Cole Hunter All-Division: Cayden Peters, Aidan Collins-Arrasate, Brody Schaffer, Daniel Shannon, Drew Calloway Rookie of the Year: Cayden Peters Girls Lacrosse Team Awards: Scholar Athlete Team All-County: Ava Derby, Hailey Donahoe, Maya Farnan, Lily Graves, Reese King All-Division: Maiya Boughal, Gabriella Provenzano, Reagan Schindler Rookie of the Year: Mackenzie Klammer All-American: Maya Farnan, Reese King Boys Track Team Awards: Scholar Athlete Team All-League: Ezekiel McCrary, Marcus Haynia, Antonio Washington All-Academic: Marcus Haynia Girls Track Team Awards: Scholar Athlete Team All-County, All-Academic, All-State: Lily Strebel Date Added: 6/30/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183587 Mon, 30 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183587 The Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2025 celebrated an academic milestone as they received their diplomas on June 27 at the school’s 117th commencement exercises. During the evening ceremony, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst and high school Principal Christopher Herr congratulated the students on their academic, athletic and extracurricular accomplishments and their community service contributions. Among those who took the podium were valedictorian Nicholas Borruso and salutatorian Matilda Buchen. Jordan Razzano read a senior poem, and senior class historian Meghan Pomroy rounded out the celebration by speaking of class memories and achievements. In closing, the symphonic choir entertained with a performance of The Climb by Myley Cyrus. After accepting their diplomas and tossing their caps, the graduates joined a final procession off the football field toward their next chapter of success. Date Added: 6/30/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183591 Mon, 30 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183591 The designs and slogans of three Westhampton Beach High School marketing students in Amy Demchak’s class are now featured on cups at Hampton Coffee Company in Westhampton Beach. The designs of Allie Barry, Michelle Rodriguez and Liz Sultan were selected following a hands-on project where they put their marketing and branding skills to the test. The students were challenged by Hampton Coffee to create a coffee cup label that promotes their brand. This is the third year that students have participated in the challenge. Date Added: 6/18/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183434 Thu, 26 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183434 Proudly wearing their green graduation gowns, members of the Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2025 marched through the halls of their former elementary school on June 16. They reminisced about their early school days and provided inspiration to current students. As they took the traditional senior walk, the elementary students cheered, clapped and held up signs of congratulations. Date Added: 6/25/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183347 Wed, 25 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183347 For her hard work and dedication on and off the field and court, Westhampton Beach High School senior Matilda Buchen was one of 30 student-athletes across Long Island to be distinguished with a News 12 Scholar Athlete award. Buchen was featured on News 12 and received a $1,000 scholarship from Bethpage Federal Credit Union. Buchen, who is the Class of 2025 salutatorian, holds numerous awards as a varsity doubles tennis player. She is a state and county doubles champion, a three-time All-State athlete, and a five-time All-County and All-Division athlete. Additionally, she earned the New York State Sportsmanship Award twice, was named a “Top 30 on Long Island” tennis player, and was selected for the Long Island girls tennis team twice. In addition to serving as captain of her tennis team, she has managed the boys varsity tennis team. Buchen also has an impressive academic record. She is an AP Scholar with Distinction, earned AP Capstone seals on her diploma, and is a member of the school’s National, Math and Science honor societies. Additionally, she is the recipient of the New York State Scholarship for Academic Excellence and a member of her school’s Interact and Debate clubs. She also serves as historian of the National Honor Society. Outside of school, she serves as a lieutenant of the Westhampton Beach Junior Ambulance and volunteers at a local animal shelter and at East End Hospice. In the fall, Buchen will study at Stony Brook University in the honors program. She has a goal to become a dentist. Date Added: 6/24/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183346 Tue, 24 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183346 Westhampton Beach High School’s Unified Gym program recently hosted a field day for students across the East End. Students from East Hampton, Southampton and Hampton Bays joined Westhampton to participate in a variety of field day activities and dance. This year’s theme was “Superheroes — Everyone Has Their Own Superpower.” Date Added: 6/23/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183344 Mon, 23 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183344 Westhampton Beach High School recently inducted 13 new members into the Tri-M Music Honor Society during a ceremony. Tri-M is a national honor society that recognizes secondary school students for their musical achievements, leadership, character and service. Students are required to meet GPA criteria and show involvement and leadership in school ensembles. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following inductees: Taylor Bigora Abigail Camacho Jackson Caputo Alexa Detke Katherine Deverna Emilia Harrington-Matros Ruby Higinbotham Cameron Hipp Channing O'Neil Alejandra Rodriguez Ari Schneider William Sultan Sophia Zaleski Date Added: 6/20/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183308 Fri, 20 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183308 Despite rain, the Westhampton Beach Middle School held a successful Hurricane Round Up. The annual event is a fun-filled day for sixth grade students from the Westhampton Beach, East Quogue, Quogue and Remsenburg-Speonk school districts to meet each other and join in activities and events with their soon-to-be new classmates. It is the first time the Class of 2031 came together as Hurricanes. Date Added: 6/19/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183307 Thu, 19 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183307 Westhampton Beach High School seniors Finn Drake and Luciana Reilly were honored by the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance as winners of the Suffolk Zone Student Leadership Award. The two were selected based on their excellence in physical education, leadership ability and service to the community. Drake plays both lacrosse and football and Reilly is a member of her school’s soccer and softball teams. Date Added: 6/18/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183306 Wed, 18 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183306 Westhampton Beach High School thespians took home multiple awards from this year’s Teeny Awards. The Teeny Awards program recognizes student talent across 20 East End school districts. The district congratulates the following students who earned Teeny Awards, as well as the 21 students who earned nominations: Lead Role in a Play, Comedy Meghan Pomroy in the role of Wadsworth in “Clue” Brady Schultz in the role of Mr. Green in “Clue” Supporting Performer in a Musical Drama Kaitlynn Mazurkiewicz in the role of Madame Thénardier in “Les Misérables” Outstanding Performer in a Play Emmy Shea in the role of Newscaster/Reporter/Shadow Staff in “Clue” Judges Choice Award, Entire Show “Les Misérables” Date Added: 6/17/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183305 Tue, 17 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183305 Westhampton Beach High School’s Virtual Enterprise team PuraVie, made up of Sydney Beardslee, Sophia Biondi, Margaret Gilbride and Willow DuBrovin, earned first place at the VE Gala held at the Plaza Hotel in New York City on June 6. They were one of three teams selected to compete. To earn their place in the finals, the students worked to advance through two rigorous selection rounds, including a video pitch and slideshow submission. They then prepared for the competition by participating in two Zoom mentoring sessions with New York City-based business professionals and AI experts. During the competition, PuraVie gave an oral presentation and a visual pitch and participated in an intense Q&A session with top business executives. Each member of the winning team received a $1,500 monetary award in recognition of their outstanding performance. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the PuraVie team for an impressive win. Date Added: 6/16/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183304 Mon, 16 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183304 The Suffolk County School Superintendents Association hosted its 31st annual Valedictorians Luncheon at Villa Lombardi in Holbrook on May 29, an annual SCSSA tradition that honors the enviable accomplishments of Suffolk County’s highest-achieving Class of 2025 graduates. The luncheon was attended by school district superintendents, high school principals, special guests, the valedictorians and their parents. Among them, Westhampton Beach High School valedictorian Nicholas Borruso. After a warm welcome by SCSSA President-Elect Dr. Timothy T. Eagan, SCSSA President Dr. Harold Dean told the valedictorians that their success is a testament to their relentless dedication, hard work and perseverance. “As you look ahead to the paths you will forge and the lives you will impact, know that we take great pride in both your accomplishments and your potential to make a meaningful difference in the world,” Dr. Dean said. “We encourage you to remain true to your values – they are the foundation of a lasting leadership.” Guest speaker Dr. Carl Lejuez, executive vice president and provost at Stony Brook University, encouraged the valedictorians to seek mentorship but to remain true to themselves. “From the first day [of college], look for an opportunity to make a connected relationship with faculty and staff.” He also said, “You should take something from mentors while staying yourselves” and that it is important to “carve out your own place.” The valedictorians were then called to the stage, accompanied by their school superintendent and high school principal, to receive a certificate of recognition, a plaque and a copy of Dr. Seuss’ “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” During his closing remarks, Dr. Eagan congratulated the valedictorians on their outstanding accomplishments and charged them with the following advice. “Approach your college education with the same passion that got you here today.” Date Added: 6/13/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183279 Fri, 13 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183279 During a candle-lighting ceremony, 63 Westhampton Beach High School juniors were inducted into the National Honor Society, one of the oldest and most prestigious national organizations for students. Additionally, its senior members were recognized. To be eligible for membership, the students were required to maintain a weighted GPA of 92 or better, demonstrate the standards of leadership, service, citizenship and character, and complete 30 hours of community service. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following inductees: Chelsea Aguirre, Mia Albinson, Jude Allen, Sofia Amodemo, Tess Ashley, Priscila Barros Ribeiro, Dagny Beasley, Zachary Berger, Maiya Boughal, Addison Celi, Mynor Chacon-Fuentes, Sandra Clarke, Ava Combuechen, Hailey Cuzco, Kannon Davis, Alexa Detke, Katherine DeVerna, Morgan DeVerna, Jenna DiDomenico, Caeden Dorn, Scarlett Doyle, Verona Easton, Emily Edwards, Diana Elliott, Ava Failla, Kara Flynn, Diane Georgieva, Cameron Giordano, Eleanor Greiner, Luke Hefter, Mackenzie Herrera, Emilia Hill, Anderson Hipp, Khloe Hoda, Brady Hofmann, Brooke Huwer, Aidan Judd, Lauren Kelly, Mitchell Li, Joshua McCarthy, Nate Methven, Tessa Mongelluzzo, Annabelle Najdzion, George Nikolopoulos, Emma O'Came, Imanol Osorio, Selin Ozkazanc, Nathan Perl, Olivia Purta, Christopher Ramos, Constantine Reilly, John Reilly, Delaney Ruga, Andrea Salazar Alcantara, Brady Schultz, Emmy Shea, Julia Sobhani, Noor Sohail, Andrew Stalters, Samara Takemoto, Angela Tran, Emma Vaz and Ana Way. Date Added: 6/12/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183126 Thu, 12 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183126 The Westhampton Beach High School French Club recently took an educational field trip to New York City to explore French art, cuisine and culture. During the trip, the students visited the Museum of Modern Art to compare the works of art in the French collection with those from New York. Afterward, they enjoyed French culinary specialties at La Bonne Soupe, including the traditional croque madame, the famous boeuf bourguignon and the chef’s omelet. Date Added: 6/11/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183106 Wed, 11 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183106 To inspire the spread of kindness, Westhampton Beach High School Youth to Youth Club members recently spent time with Westhampton Beach Elementary School fifth graders. As part of the event, the high school students led a series of activities related to kindness, positive decision making and acceptance. Date Added: 6/10/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183054 Tue, 10 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183054 Westhampton Beach Middle School Kiwanis Club members recently donated $1,000 to the Quogue Wildlife Refuge. The students spent the school year raising the funds through a variety of fundraisers, including a movie night bucket raffle. Pictured from left are club members Adam Runowski, Colm Parsons, Wilson Godoy, Jade Wladyka, Gage Matlock and Evan Pereyra with Cara Fernandes of the Quogue Wildlife Refuge. Date Added: 5/30/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183056 Mon, 09 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183056 Date Added: 6/9/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183201 Mon, 09 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183201 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students recently celebrated Police Day, during which local law enforcement officers spoke to them about different jobs and technologies in the field. The students learned about the SWAT team, K-9 unit, helicopter unit and police drones. Date Added: 5/30/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183049 Fri, 06 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183049 The Westhampton Beach High School Hurricane Watch news broadcast brought home two first-place trophies from the annual BASH Awards for high school broadcasting. They earned top honors in the Best Local Multimedia Reporting category — sponsored by Newsday — for their coverage of the Westhampton wildfires through Hurricane Watch, Instagram and whbnews.com. The team also won Best Arts, Entertainment & Culture Reporting for their Black History Month segment, which highlighted the rich history of Black music. To earn the awards, Hurricane Watch, led by broadcast journalism teachers Kirsten Mett and Dariah Luciano, competed against more than 50 schools and 1,000 students from across Long Island and upstate New York. Date Added: 6/5/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183048 Thu, 05 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183048 Senator Anthony Palumbo and Assemblyman Tommy Schiavoni paid tribute to Class of 2025 valedictorians and salutatorians from six East End schools during an annual ceremony at Hampton Bays High School on May 30. The top-ranking seniors were presented with proclamations for their hard work and dedication. They represented the Bridgehampton, East Hampton, Hampton Bays, Sag Harbor, Shoreham-Wading River and Westhampton Beach school districts. The students heard firsthand from Sen. Palumbo and Assemblyman Schiavoni about their careers. In turn, the seniors shared stories about their journeys through high school, their passions and their plans for the future. Friends, family members, school administrators and the guests of honor also enjoyed a brunch prepared by Hampton Bays High School culinary students. Date Added: 5/30/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183047 Wed, 04 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183047 Westhampton Beach High School juniors Tess Ashley and Kara Flynn recently participated in the Students Inside Albany conference, sponsored by the League of Women Voters. They were selected to attend following a nomination and application process. As part of the immersive initiative, the pair took part in a multitude of activities ranging from information sessions to sitting on the assembly floor. They heard from speakers of the assembly, journalists and activists about their perspectives and learned more about lobbying. They also shadowed members of the assembly and senate and sat in with them on conferences regarding bills. Date Added: 6/3/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183017 Tue, 03 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183017 Date Added: 6/3/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183080 Tue, 03 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183080 Westhampton Beach Middle School students recently welcomed peers from Hampton Bays Middle School for their school’s first-ever in-house mock trial competition. For the event, students argued both sides of a New York State civil assault case, taking on the roles of attorneys and witnesses in a realistic courtroom simulation. Presiding over the trial were Mr. Gibbons, a practicing attorney, and Ms. Wright, an attorney and a member of the Board of Education. They offered students their expertise, mentorship and insights into the legal process. “The event was a meaningful day of learning, collaboration and teamwork, providing students with an opportunity to refine their critical thinking and debate skills in an engaging, hands-on environment,” said Kelly Massaro, Youth and Government teacher. Date Added: 6/2/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183012 Mon, 02 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183012 Westhampton Beach High School’s community service Golden Canes Club recently donated over $600 to East End Hospice and Camp Good Grief. Club members raised the funds through a second annual pickleball tournament at the Barn in Westhampton. Participating in the tournament were Westhampton Beach High School students and alumni. Congratulations to first-place winners Bobby Stabile and Matilda Buchen. Date Added: 5/30/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=183014 Fri, 30 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT false183014 Westhampton Beach High School students recently celebrated Wellness Week through theme days and a wellness activity day. They wore neon to brighten someone’s day on Tuesday and matched a friend to emphasize the importance of a support system on Wednesday. They also wore green on Thursday and took part in activity stations during their gym periods to learn more about mental health and how physical health is connected to it. Date Added: 5/29/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182947 Thu, 29 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182947 The Westhampton Beach School District recently hosted a successful inaugural community service fair. The fair, open to all community members, students and families, gave students the opportunity to explore various volunteer prospects. Local organizations included the Kiwanis Club of Southampton Town, the Rotary Club of Southampton, the VFW, animal shelters, the Marine Search and Rescue Team, HUGS, the Town of Southampton Youth Bureau, the Westhampton Beach Fire Department, Canine Companions, the Suffolk County Sheriff's Department and many more. Students also enjoyed performing with Kenn and Spencer, founders of OOMPA (the Organization of Open Mic Performing Artists). Date Added: 5/28/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182946 Wed, 28 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182946 Westhampton Beach High School social studies teacher Bryan Schaumloffel and school counselors Erika Habersaat and Christine Minnear recently participated in the Marine Educators Workshop in Parris Island, South Carolina. The three faculty members were selected to participate in the program along with 51 other educators following an application process. During the three-day workshop, they were led by drill instructors to march and participate in informative and intense activities that simulated elements of becoming a marine. Schaumloffel, Habersaat and Minnear said they decided to participate to become more educated on what boot camp is like for new recruits, as well as learn about college and vocational opportunities for service members. “This was an experience of a lifetime,” said Minnear. “Going through a simulated boot camp, as well as listening to new recruits, Marines who have been serving for many years, the drill sergeants, instructors and commanding general, I feel so much more knowledgeable about the U.S. Marine Corps. I have the utmost respect for these men and women who choose to serve their country.” Likewise, Habersaat offered, “This was an outstanding experience — probably one of the top professional development opportunities I have taken part in during my career. Every single Marine we interacted with was professional and open to answering any of our questions. I can honestly say I have a very good understanding of what the 13 weeks of basic training that every Marine goes through are like, and how difficult and transformative they are.” Schaumloffel added, “I gained an entirely new respect for what new Marine recruits go through. Everything has a reason and purpose. It is not just yelling for no reason — everything they do is planned for a certain outcome. It was very impressive to have been immersed in the process.” Date Added: 5/27/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182945 Tue, 27 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182945 High school seniors from the Westhampton Beach, Hampton Bays and Southampton school districts who have committed to entering the military upon graduation were honored at a sixth annual ceremony at Southampton High School on May 22. During the formal event, the seniors — who represent the 1% of graduates who commit to the military each year — were presented with proclamations and accolades. Their families were given blue star flags at the ceremony, which included musical military tributes and several speakers who offered congratulations and well wishes. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following seniors who will be entering military service: Devora Cospin Larrazabal (Navy), Colston Deshler (Army), Brayden Mackie (Marines), Lukas Rahbari (Navy) and Liam Schmidt (Coast Guard). Date Added: 5/23/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182940 Fri, 23 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182940 Westhampton Beach High School senior Willow DuBrovin impressively earned her black belt in Soo Bahk Do, the oldest Korean martial art. “It was an incredible experience where I got to train with people across the state and country, and now that I've passed it, I can maintain these skills until the next test in two years,” she said. To earn her black belt, DuBrovin was required to take part in a three-hour test that only takes place twice a year. With no breaks and constant testing, she demonstrated mastery of basic moves, 120 standard/jump kicks, three forms, two rounds of sparring, 120 punches in 30 seconds, one-step sparring, self-defense, a jump-back kick double board break, general knowledge and an essay. DuBrovin began training for her black belt at Studio Moodo in her freshman year of high school. She previously trained in jiu-jitsu. When not training, DuBrovin serves as a class assistant at Studio Moodo. She is also a biweekly columnist for Dan's Papers and writes a monthly column for the Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Center in the Montauk Sun. In school, she serves as the chief marketing officer for her school’s Virtual Enterprise team, PuraVie, which recently earned first place at Virtual Enterprises International’s National Business Plan Competition. Additionally, she serves as the creative director of her mother’s company. She will be attending Dartmouth College in the fall to pursue a degree in physics on a pre-med track. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to DuBrovin on her accomplishment. Date Added: 5/21/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182885 Wed, 21 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182885 Budget Approved Presupuesto Aprobado Yes (Si) 262 No (No) 71 Proposition 2 Approved La Propuesta No. 2 Aprobado Yes (Si) 273 No (No) 59 Proposition 3 Approved La Propuesta No. 3 Aprobado Yes (Si) 265 No (No) 67 Board Election Elección Delfiducario De La Junta De Educación Elizabeth T. Lanni-Hewitt - 256* Dawn Arresate - 259* *Elected/Fideicomisarios Electos Date Added: 5/20/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182861 Tue, 20 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182861 Westhampton Beach High School sophomore Brett Geller, hornist, recently attended the third annual Hofstra Honor Band Day at Hofstra University. He was among students representing numerous school districts on Long Island who had the opportunity to rehearse and perform with the Hofstra Symphonic Band and its director, David Soto. Additionally, he attended instrument-specific master classes and participated in a Q&A session with the Hofstra band members and Hofstra admissions. The day concluded with a performance for family and friends. Date Added: 5/14/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182698 Wed, 14 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182698 Westhampton Beach High School senior clarinetist Lilah Caputo recently earned first place in the annual Atlantic Wind Symphony solo competition. As part of her win, she will perform Carl Maria von Weber's Concertino for Clarinet, Op. 26 with the professional concert band on Sunday, June 1, at the Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts. This is not the first time that Caputo has excelled in music. Earlier this year, the senior was selected as first chair for both the New York State School Music Association All-State Festival and the Suffolk County Music Educators Association All-County Festival. She has also performed with the New York State Band Directors Association High School Honor Band. Caputo was selected to perform at the festivals based on her impressive scores at the NYSSMA Solo Evaluation Festival, teacher recommendations and ranking. When not performing at festivals or in her school’s band, Caputo takes part in her school’s French, Science and Yearbook clubs. She is also a member of her school’s student government. In the fall, she plans to attend the University of Florida to study biology. She also plans to keep music in her life. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Caputo on her impressive musical accomplishments. Date Added: 5/13/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182677 Tue, 13 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182677 Westhampton Beach High School student-musician Bella Ruggiero recently had the impressive opportunity to compete in two concerto competitions. Ruggiero, a sophomore flutist, played for the Long Island Flute Club and the Gemini Youth Orchestra. In addition to the competitions, Ruggiero performs with the Gemini Symphony Orchestra and in the Long Island Flute Club Festival. She was also selected for the Hampton Music Educators Association High School and Suffolk County Music Educators Association Division III bands, where she played piccolo and principal flute. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates Ruggiero on her musical accomplishments. Date Added: 5/12/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182623 Mon, 12 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182623 The Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2025 includes seven seniors who earned their way into four of the most prestigious schools in the country — Cornell University, Dartmouth College, the University of Pennsylvania and Yale University. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following Ivy League-bound students: Nicholas Borruso, Class of 2025 valedictorian, will be attending Yale to study neuroscience on a pre-med track. Maya Farnan will continue her education at the University of Pennsylvania to pursue cinema media studies. Abigail Curran will attend Dartmouth to study biomedical engineering. Valeria Nazaretski will enroll at Cornell to study sociology on a pre-law tract. Willow DuBrovin will study at Dartmouth to earn a degree in physics on a pre-med track. James Monserrate will matriculate at Dartmouth, where he will study biology on a pre-med track. Fahtima Iqbal will attend Cornell to pursue a degree in human biology and health and society. Date Added: 5/9/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182622 Fri, 09 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182622 The community is invited to celebrate high school seniors from the Westhampton Beach, Southampton and Hampton Bays school districts who have committed to entering the military upon graduation. The students will be honored at a sixth annual ceremony at Agawam Park in Southampton on Thursday, May 22, at 10 a.m. Date Added: 5/8/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182621 Thu, 08 May 2025 06:00:00 GMT false182621 Westhampton Beach High School biotechnology students recently participated in an educational field trip to Peconic Bay Medical Center. During the visit, they saw a da Vinci robotic arm in action and were able to try out its impressive control system. Date Added: 5/6/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182566 Thu, 08 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182566 Westhampton Beach High School senior Finn Drake was named to the National Football Foundation Golden Eleven team at the Suffolk County Chapter’s annual Scholar Athlete Awards Brunch, held April 27 at the Melville Marriott. This recognition marked Drake as one of the county’s top 11 football scholar-athletes. “Being named to the Golden Eleven team is a huge honor,” said Drake. “It has shown that all my hard work paid off, both on and off the field. It’s also shown the importance of being not only a good athlete, but also a strong student and leader. It feels great to be recognized for both my athletic and academic successes.” Drake has played football since the second grade and has played in various positions, from quarterback to wide receiver, linebacker and defense, to help maximize the success of any team he played on. For his efforts, he earned Team MVP and All-County honors for football in his senior year. He also holds an All-County Honorable Mention title for lacrosse. When not on the field, Drake, an AP Scholar with Honor, volunteers for local PAL sports teams and hospice. He also serves as a representative for the Thomas Cutinella Organ Donation Foundation. He will be attending Manhattan University in the fall, where he will study finance and play lacrosse. Date Added: 5/7/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182516 Wed, 07 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182516 As a symbol of their commitment to the pursuit of higher education, the Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2025 wore the apparel of their college of choice on May 1. The class will be heading to several premier schools this fall, including Boston University, Cornell University, Clemson University, Georgetown University, Indiana University, Penn State, Stony Brook University, Virgina Tech and Yale University to begin their postsecondary studies. “We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2025,” said Principal Dr. Christopher Herr. “They have made their mark on Westhampton Beach High School, and we wish them the very best in the future.” Date Added: 5/6/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182517 Tue, 06 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182517 Westhampton Beach High School senior Meghan Pomroy has been selected as a winner of the National Merit ADP Henry Taub Memorial Scholarship. She earned the award after being named a finalist in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program for scoring in the top percentile of the 2023 PSAT. “I never expected to win the scholarship,” said Pomroy, who will be attending McGill University in the fall to study chemistry. Aside from her impressive scores on the PSAT, Pomroy is an AP Scholar with Distinction and will graduate with a prestigious AP Capstone designation on her diploma. She is also a member of her school’s National, Math, Science, Language and Tri-M honor societies. Additionally, she is president of her school’s GSA, vice president of drama club, co-vice president of the choir, treasurer of the pep band and co-editor of Seascapes literary magazine. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates Meghan Pomroy on this outstanding achievement. Date Added: 5/5/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182497 Mon, 05 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182497 Westhampton Beach High School senior Mia Pazera recently performed as a member of the National Association for Music Education All-Eastern Mixed Chorus in Hartford, Connecticut. She was among 185 juniors and seniors from the East Coast to be selected for this prestigious ensemble. Pazera earned her spot after being named to the All-State Mixed Chorus based on teacher recommendations and NYSSMA scores last spring. Date Added: 5/2/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182459 Fri, 02 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182459 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Giancarlo Volpe for being named to Newsday’s Top 30 Long Island Boys Tennis Players list. Giancarlo was recognized as part of a high-rising doubles team for the Hurricanes. He also made Newsday’s 2023 All-Long Island first team and 2024 second team. Date Added: 4/30/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182448 Thu, 01 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182448 Westhampton Beach High School Advanced Science Research student Nicholas Borruso has impressively been selected as one of the State Congress nominees from Long Island to attend the New York State Science Congress in Syracuse on June 8. Borruso was chosen for his research project “Assessment of the Behavioral Impacts of Forever Chemicals (PFAS) on Danio rerio,” which he conducted as part of the Simons Summer Research Program at Stony Brook University. His project is one of 23 from Long Island and one of only three from Suffolk County to advance to this level. It's a great privilege to be selected by the LISC judges and committee to represent Long Island at the New York State Science Congress,” said Borruso. “I am grateful to have the opportunity to connect with other New York State student researchers, and I look forward to presenting my research to the esteemed panel of judges that has been put together for the event in June. Earlier this year, Borruso’s project placed first in the environmental category of the Junior Science and Humanities Symposium semifinals. He was one of only 16 high school researchers from Long Island to advance in that competition. To earn the spot, he competed against 320 of his peers. Borruso said he selected the project, in which he studied the effects of “forever chemicals” on zebrafish, because he has always been interested in neuroscience and the impacts of pollution on environmental health. He conducted his research as part of the Simons Summer Research Program at Stony Brook University, where he served as a fellow in Dr. Howard Sirotkin’s lab in the department of neurobiology and behavior. Aside from participating in his school’s science research program, Borruso, who was recently named valedictorian of the Class of 2025, volunteers at a local emergency department and is vice president of his school’s robotics team, for which he inaugurated a mentorship program for robotics at the middle school. He is also co-editor of his school’s “Seascapes” publication, participates in Key Club, and is a member of his school’s National, Language, Math and Science honor societies. He is an AP Scholar with Distinction and has earned an AP Capstone designation on his diploma. He plans to study neuroscience in college on a pre-med track. Date Added: 4/30/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182443 Wed, 30 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182443 Westhampton Beach High School students recently celebrated National Poem in My Pocket Day. During the day, students shared their favorite poems — both from renowned poets and those they had penned themselves — with peers, teachers, administrators and staff. Participating students were entered into a raffle for a chance to win a gift card from A Book Place in Riverhead. Date Added: 4/23/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182329 Wed, 23 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182329 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182293 Mon, 21 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182293 Date Added: 4/17/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182278 Thu, 17 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182278 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Owen Jessop and junior Zach Berger for being named to Newsday’s Top 10 Long Island Boys Golfers list. Owen was recognized as a Suffolk County individual runner-up with a two-day score of 3-over-par 149. Zach earned recognition for being crowned the Suffolk County individual champion after he carded a two-day score of 6-under-par 140. Date Added: 4/16/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182236 Wed, 16 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182236 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Lily Strebel on being named to Newsday’s Top 50 Long Island Girls Track and Field Athletes. Lily, who has committed to run at Richmond University, was recognized for being ranked fifth in the state during the 2024 indoor season. She ran a 4:34.4 in the 1,500-meter, beating her outdoor 1,500-meter time of 4:35.3. She was also 11th in the state last spring after running 9:52.05 in the 3,000-meter. Date Added: 4/15/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182185 Tue, 15 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182185 The Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise team, PuraVie, earned first place at Virtual Enterprises International’s National Business Plan Competition, held at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City. This is the third time that a Westhampton Beach Virtual Enterprise team has brought home a first-place trophy. The other wins were in 2016 and 2022. “I am incredibly proud of our talented and dedicated PuraVie team,” said business teacher Amy Demchak. “This national win is a testament to their hard work, perseverance and countless hours of preparation. Going into the competition, Westhampton Beach was ranked in the top 10% of Long Island’s 140 teams. PuraVie is a virtual sustainable cleaning supply company offering an innovative solution to reduce single-use plastics. They sell dissolvable cleaning tablets paired with reusable bottles, providing a convenient and sustainable approach to household cleaning. The Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise program requires students to create a business concept and formulate plans to market it. They compete and present their plans at several events throughout the year. With the win, the team is now back in the “office” working on their entry for an upcoming VE National Newsletter Competition. Next month, they will begin wrapping up the fiscal year for their virtual business by preparing year-end financial reports, an annual report and a corporate social responsibility report. Date Added: 4/14/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182184 Mon, 14 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182184 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates juniors Katie Burke and Addison Celi on being named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Softball Players list. Burke was named for hitting .436, with nine doubles, four home runs, 35 RBIs and 31 runs last season, and Celi was recognized for striking out 229 batters and holding opposing hitters to a .116 batting average. She also batted a .530 with two homers, 18 RBIs and 25 runs. Date Added: 4/7/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182094 Fri, 11 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182094 To foster kindness and inclusivity, Westhampton Beach High School students recently volunteered to read books and hold engaging discussions with students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School as part of the elementary school’s Social Inclusivity Month celebration. The high school students, who were nominated by their teachers to participate, read age-appropriate books to the elementary students, including “Same, Same But Different” by Jenny Sue Kostecki-Shaw and “The Day You Begin” and “The Other Side” by Jacqueline Woodson. The readings were followed by heartfelt conversations about being kind to others and brainstorming ways to make a difference in the community. High school students also answered questions from elementary school students about high school. Date Added: 4/4/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182074 Thu, 10 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182074 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Finn Drake for being named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Boys Lacrosse Players list. Finn earned the recognition for posting 34 goals and 25 assists last spring. Date Added: 4/4/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182056 Wed, 09 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182056 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates four girls lacrosse players for being named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Girls Lacrosse Players list. Ava Derby, a junior, was named for making 23 goals, 16 assists, 44 ground balls, 42 draw controls and 24 caused turnovers last season. Senior Maya Farnan was recognized as a second team All-Long Island section player who finished last season with 127 saves, bringing her career save total to 400. Lilly Graves, a senior, earned recognition for breaking a program record with 69 ground balls last season, along with 23 goal, six assists and 19 caused turnovers. Reese King, a senior, was named for finishing last season with 96 draws, 53 goals, 23 assists and 36 ground balls. Date Added: 4/8/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182040 Tue, 08 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182040 The New York State Public High School Athletic Association has recognized six of Westhampton Beach High School’s winter athletic teams as Scholar-Athlete teams. To earn the recognition, 75% of each team was required to hold a GPA above 90%. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following teams: boys and girls varsity track and field, boys and girls varsity basketball, boys wrestling, and the competitive cheer team. Date Added: 4/3/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182018 Mon, 07 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182018 The Westhampton Beach School District will host an inaugural community service fair on Saturday, May 10, from 12-2 p.m. in the Westhampton Beach Middle cafeteria, 340 Mill Road, Westhampton Beach. The fair, open to all community members, students and families, provides the opportunity to explore various volunteer opportunities. On hand will be local organizations including Kiwanis, Rotary, VFW, animal shelters, the Marine Search and Rescue Team, HUGS, the Southampton Youth Bureau, the Westhampton Beach Fire Department, Canine Companions, the Suffolk County Sheriff's Department and many more. The event will also feature food and music. Date Added: 4/4/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=182003 Fri, 04 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT false182003 Westhampton Beach High School students Kannon Davis, Scarlett Maag, Luciana Reilly, Cody Rodgers, Chloe Sword and Henry Walker recently participated in the League of Women Voters’ annual Student Day at the Suffolk County Legislature, where they learned more about the role of the league and the legislature. They also participated in a mock legislative session, during which they debated a bill on armed security guards for schools by acting as legislators and members of the public. Date Added: 4/3/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181965 Thu, 03 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT false181965 Westhampton Beach Middle School is proud to announce that 69 students have been named National Junior Honor Society members. The students were officially inducted during a candle lighting ceremony. To be eligible for membership, the students were required to maintain an unweighted GPA of 92 or better, meet the standards of leadership, service, citizenship and character, and complete community service. Westhampton Beach Middle School congratulates the following inductees: Gabriela Arango, Mary Atkinson, Ariana Bazan-Berrezueta , Georgia Beasley, Cian Belkin, Seweryn Bieniasz, Declan Byrne, Conrad Cabrera, Helen Castaneda Guzman, Leah Centeno-Peipman, Xavi Chamorro Yac, Zachary Davin, Emma DelGiudice, Angelina Detke, Rielan Dorn, Nolan Drake, Leo Dudra, Daniel Felipe, Isaiah Felton-Gunn, Matilda Ferran, Keith Figueroa Jr., Evan Ford, Mia Gosnell, Lilly Guja, Theodore Isaacson, Michael Kessler, Angelina Kiefer, Logan King, Ryder Kirchner, Rylee Krill, Kaiden Kristinsson-Bailey, Isabelle Kulp, Karstyn LoRusso, Genesis Luna, Molly Luzim, Kellan Magner, Declan Maguire, Vanessa Marte, Gage Matlock, Samantha Mazurkiewicz, Euan McLean, Melia Megill, Christopher Meyers, Dominik Mikucki, Benjamin Miller, Henry Minnerop, Maria Morales Bulux, Leigh Murray, Summer O'Neill, Lucy Owens, Matthew Palamidessi, Peyton Parkes, Emily Parsons, Alexander Pataridze, Cayden Peters, Alexander Pincott, Anabelle Reutter, Kendall Riley, Harper Rilling, Catherine Robesch, Karina Rosales Gomez, Adelena Sanicola, Blake Schaffer, Marley Serrell, Jack Stalters, Angelina Takemoto, Delilah Tunney, Ava Willmott and Jade Wladyka. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181962 Wed, 02 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT false181962 Westhampton Beach High School freshman Youth and Government students presented impressive bills and brought home three awards from the New York State YMCA Youth and Government Conference, which brings together young leaders from across the region to simulate the legislative process and engage in civic discourse. This is the first year that the high school has participated in the conference. Earning awards were freshmen Ari Schneider, who was nominated to attend the Conference on National Affairs, Hailey Heptig, who won the Outstanding Delegate award and Casey Farrell, who was nominated for the YMCA Conference on National Affairs. In addition, 31 Westhampton Beach High School freshmen prepared four original bills to present at the conference about check-ins for children of child custody cases, bone marrow biopsy treatments for children with leukemia, introducing safety escape ladders to second-story school buildings, and implementing a New York State volunteer program for recent high school graduates. The high school’s new Youth and Government elective course aims to engage students in national government and politics and provide them with an opportunity to elevate their voices. The course was inaugurated following interest by students who participated in the middle school’s Youth and Government class. Date Added: 4/1/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181843 Tue, 01 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT false181843 The Westhampton Beach School District Board of Education recently presented a Great Hurricane Award to Maryann Higgins, a special education teacher at Westhampton Beach High School and soccer coach at the middle school. Higgins was honored for her hard work and dedication. “Maryann Higgins is someone who makes a difference every single day in the high school where she teaches, in the middle school where she coaches, and throughout the district where she is a colleague, a professional and a person of the very highest caliber,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. “It is my pleasure to see her recognized as the Winter 2025 Great Hurricane Award recipient.” Higgins has been an educator for the past 28 years, teaching in the high school, middle school and elementary school. She coached the middle school soccer team this past year and has been a travel coach for over 10 years. She also manages the scorebook varsity girls basketball team and is a school soccer and track official. “Throughout my tenure, I have been surrounded by dedicated teachers, supportive administrators, a community that values education and, most importantly, incredible students that have made me a better teacher,” Higgins said. “I am honored to be a receipt of the winter Hurricane Award.” The Great Hurricane Award aims to honor staff throughout the year who make a difference every day within the school district. “A hurricane is a storm of indomitable force, but more than that, here in Westhampton Beach, it stands for honor, hard work, dedication, loyalty and tradition,” said Dr. Probst. Date Added: 3/28/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181894 Fri, 28 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT false181894 Westhampton Beach Middle School seventh graders recently participated in an assembly with Dr. Vic Grazina, who spoke about the critical role sleep plays in health, learning and overall well-being. He shared eye-opening insights on how proper rest improves memory, focus and even athletic performance, while lack of sleep can negatively impact mood and daily activities. His presentation served as a great reminder for students about the importance of healthy sleep habits. Date Added: 3/25/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181853 Thu, 27 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT false181853 Jason Cohen, director of health, physical education and athletics for the Westhampton Beach School District, proudly announces that the following students, teams and coaches have received postseason recognition for their participation in the winter sports program. Multiple Westhampton Beach winter student-athletes earned designation as All-State, All-Island, All-County, All-Division, All-League and All-Conference in their respective sports. Girls Basketball Team: League Champions, undefeated All-League: Sandra Clarke, Kate Sweet, Shannon Sweet and Jasmine Taylor All-County: Sandra Clarke and Kate Sweet All-Tournament Team: Sandra Clarke and Shannon Sweet All-Conference: Sandra Clarke, Kate Sweet and Jasmine Taylor All-County Academic: Shannon Sweet Unsung Hero: Chole Blowes League 5 Player of the Year: Sandra Clarke Boys Basketball All-League: Truman Hahn All-County: Jorden Bennett All-Conference, All-Division: Jorden Bennett All-County Academic: Dante Quinones Girls Winter Track All-League, All-Conference: Lily Strebel All-Academic: Halle Geller Boys Winter Track All-County Academic: Marcus Haynia Wrestling All-League: Dylan Blenk, Darren Cangelosi, Carmine Esposito, Andrew Lewis and Dylan Razzano All-County, All-State: Lily Blenk Boys Cross-Country Coach of the Year: Hannah Martin All-League: Dylan Blenk, Magnus Haynia, Marcus Haynia and John Reilly All-County: John Reilly Competition Cheer All-Classification: Lana Blowes All-Academic: Emily Edwards Date Added: 3/26/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181845 Wed, 26 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT false181845 To celebrate National Foreign Language Week, Westhampton Beach High School students participated in a multicultural fair held in their school’s cafeteria. Hosted by the Spanish and French clubs, students had the opportunity to share their culture and try foods from around the world. Date Added: 3/25/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181844 Tue, 25 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT false181844 Students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School displayed their knowledge of science at the school’s 26th annual Math, Science and Technology Fair. The event showcased a variety of science projects by students in grades 1-5, with topics ranging from seed growth to bridge construction to suntan lotion. This year’s fair winners were Bryson Searles, kindergarten; Sophie Dwyer and Elizabeth Williams, first grade; Norah Pletka, second grade; James Robesch, third grade; Maxwell Searles, fourth grade; and Cora Montpetit, fifth grade. Runners-up were Beau Couture, kindergarten; Grayson Gold and Rylee Kalisak, first grade; Kenley Montpetit, second grade; Evelyn Matlock, third grade; Genesis Chacon, fourth grade; and Frankie DiBiaso, fifth grade. The winning students are now eligible to compete in Brookhaven National Laboratory’s annual Elementary Science Fair Competition. Date Added: 3/24/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181808 Mon, 24 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT false181808 Date Added: 3/21/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181784 Fri, 21 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT false181784 This summer, Westhampton Beach High School junior Emma O’Came will be attending the prestigious Stony Brook Simons Summer Research Program. She is the second Westhampton Beach High School student to earn entry into the highly competitive program; only 4% of all applicants are accepted. As part of the six-week program, O’Came will be working under the mentorship of Dr. Kathryn Gunn in the university’s department of biochemistry and cell biology. O’Came said she is looking forward to the opportunity to work in a lab and learn more about the research process. She became interested in research after attending the University of Pennsylvania Biomedical Research Academy last summer. “I found research is something I really enjoyed,” she said. Since then, she enrolled in her school’s AP Research program and has studied the effects of UV light on infant clothing and the relationship between genes and cancer. “Emma is highly motivated, hardworking and bright. She is a student who will absolutely make the most of this incredible research opportunity, said science research teacher Dr. Dianna Gobler. To earn her spot in the summer program, O’Came was required to participate in a highly selective application process that included her impressive academic record and recommendations from her teachers. Apart from her research, O’Came serves as president and founder of her school’s new Science Club. She is also vice president of her school’s French Club and a member of her school’s varsity volleyball team. Outside of school, she is a lifeguard and member of the Westhampton Junior Ambulance. Date Added: 3/20/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181757 Thu, 20 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT false181757 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students are celebrating Women’s History Month with a variety of engaging learning activities. Classes have been researching influential women and conducting interviews with their female teachers. Their work is featured in the school’s main hallway. Date Added: 3/17/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181671 Mon, 17 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT false181671 Westhampton Beach High School teacher Bryan Schaumloffel was recently named VFW Post 5350’s Secondary Teacher of the Year during an awards ceremony at the VFW Hall. He earned the designation for his dedication to his students. “From the first day he arrived at Westhampton Beach, his dedication to the students and athletes of the district has not wavered,” said Korey Williams, VFW member and fellow social studies teacher who spoke on behalf of Schaumloffel at the ceremony. “His focus on teamwork, discipline and leadership, whether in the classroom or on the football field, makes him more than worthy of the title ‘Teacher of the Year.’” During his 28-year tenure teaching U.S. history, economics and participation in government, Schaumloffel has encouraged his students to share photographs of relatives who have served in the military for a classroom wall of honor. The wall currently features over 100 photos. In addition to teaching, Schaumloffel coaches the varsity football team. Schaumloffel also serves as a Blue and Gold Officer at the United States Naval Academy, where his daughter is in her second year. As a Blue and Gold Officer, he helps prospective candidates of the academy navigate the admissions process. He will be attending the Marine Corps Recruiting Command Educators and Key Leaders Workshop this spring to gain insight on how the United States Marine Corps turns recruits into Marines. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Schaumloffel for his unwavering support of the students of the district. Date Added: 3/14/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181667 Fri, 14 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT false181667 Westhampton Beach High School students Ava Kuklis and William Sultan recently performed on clarinet and tuba, respectively, with the New York State Band Directors Association High School Honor Band in Syracuse. They were selected to perform based on their NYSSMA solo ratings and teacher recommendations. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the student-musicians. Date Added: 3/12/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181543 Wed, 12 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT false181543 Westhampton Beach High School AP French and Spanish students recently toured the United Nations headquarters. They learned about the UN’s history, mission and global impact and gained a deeper understanding of its efforts to promote peace, dignity and equality on a sustainable planet. The tour, conducted in Spanish and French, included the iconic General Assembly Hall and the Security Council Chamber. Inspired by the experience, the students left with a renewed commitment to making the world a better place for all. Date Added: 3/11/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181542 Tue, 11 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT false181542 Westhampton Beach High School thespians, under the direction of Kimet Speed, will present a performance of “Les Misérables” on Friday, March 21, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, March 22, at 7 p.m.; and on Sunday, March 23, at 2 p.m. in the school’s auditorium, 49 Lilac Road, Westhampton Beach. Tickets are free. Date Added: 3/10/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181541 Mon, 10 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT false181541 Date Added: 3/10/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181518 Mon, 10 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT false181518 Westhampton Beach Middle School eighth grader Alexander Pataridze recently earned a top 20 finish at the International Chess Open Graz Tournament in Austria. To earn the spot, he competed against 600 participants from 49 countries. Pataridze, who learned chess at the age of 6, has been competitively playing the strategy game with the US Chess Federation since the sixth grade. He has tested his skills at 24 competitions in New York, Philadelphia and Italy. He plans to continue to strengthen his skills with the assistance of his coach for future competitions, including at the 57the annual New York State Scholastic Championships. “I have learned that once you know all of the openings, you can master the game,” he said. “You must also watch your opponent and learn their strategies.” When not playing chess, Pataridze can be found on the tennis court or teaching himself to code. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Pataridze for a job well done. Date Added: 3/7/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181456 Fri, 07 Mar 2025 05:00:00 GMT false181456 Westhampton Beach High School has announced Nicholas Borruso and Matilda Buchen as its Class of 2025 valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively. The two seniors earned the top spots in their class through their outstanding commitment to academics. Borruso and Buchen have achieved several academic accomplishments during their tenure at Westhampton Beach High School. Both were named AP Scholars with Distinction by the College Board for their outstanding Advanced Placement exam scores, earned AP Capstone seals on their diplomas, and are members of the school’s National, Math and Science honor societies. Additionally, Borruso is a National Merit Commended Student and vice president of his school’s robotics team, for which he inaugurated a mentor program for robotics in the middle school. He is also co-editor-in-chief of his school’s Seascapes publication, a member of the varsity golf team and Key Club, and a science research student. He recently placed first in the environmental category in the Junior Sciences and Humanities Symposium semifinals for his research on the effects of forever chemicals on zebrafish. His research was conducted over the summer as part of a Simons Summer Research Program at Stony Brook University, where he served as a fellow in Dr. Howard Sirotkin’s lab in the Department of Neurobiology and Behavior. Outside of school, he volunteers in a local emergency department. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he raised $1,800 to 3D-print and donate 1,000 pieces of personal protective equipment to health care facilities. He is also a peer tutor. Borruso plans to study neuroscience on a pre-med track in the fall. Buchen is a recipient of the New York State Scholarship for Academic Excellence and a member of her school’s Interact and Debate clubs. She also serves as historian of the National Honor Society. She holds numerous awards as a varsity doubles tennis player. She is a state and county doubles champion, a three-time All-State athlete, and a five-time All-County and All-Division athlete. Additionally, she earned the New York State Sportsmanship Award twice, was named a “Top 30 on Long Island” tennis player and was selected for the Long Island girls tennis team twice. In addition to serving as captain of her tennis team, she has managed the boys varsity tennis team. Outside of school, she serves as a lieutenant of the Westhampton Beach Junior Ambulance and volunteers at a local animal shelter and at East End Hospice. She also works at Sportime. Buchen plans to study biology or chemistry in college with the goal of becoming a dentist. Click here to Meet the WHB Val and Sal 2025! Date Added: 3/6/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181420 Thu, 06 Mar 2025 05:00:00 GMT false181420 Thirty Westhampton Beach High School science research students spent their winter break learning more about marine ecology as part of a Rustic Pathways trip to Bayahibe and Sabana de la Mar in the Dominican Republic. They worked on helping the Dominican Foundation of Marine Studies, an NGO, to build structures for seeding coral nurseries and planted red mangrove trees to prevent erosion and flooding. Students also enjoyed ziplining, snorkeling and swimming in a cenote. Date Added: 3/5/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181377 Wed, 05 Mar 2025 05:00:00 GMT false181377 The Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise team has learned that they have advanced to the National Business Plan Competition, to be held April 7 at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City. They are ranked in the top 10% of Long Island’s 140 teams. The Westhampton Beach team, PuraVie, is a virtual sustainable cleaning supply company offering an innovative solution to reduce single-use plastics. PuraVie sells dissolvable cleaning tablets paired with reusable bottles, providing a convenient and sustainable approach to household cleaning. The Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise program requires students to create a business concept and formulate plans to market it. They compete and present their plans at several events throughout the year. Date Added: 3/4/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181319 Tue, 04 Mar 2025 05:00:00 GMT false181319 The artwork of 10 Westhampton Beach Middle School students will be on display at the Parrish Art Museum as part of the museum’s 70th annual Student Exhibition, which runs from March 15 through April 27. The 2025 showcase will feature more than 1,000 young artists from Eastern Long Island’s schools. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following talented artists: Janely Amaya, Cian Belkin, Jeannine Braynelle Fernandez, Lean Centeno-Peipman, Lourdes Chan, Mia Gosnell, Lilly Guja, Kaiden Krisinsson-Bailey, Van Pendergast and Matthew Robles-Avila. Date Added: 3/3/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181299 Mon, 03 Mar 2025 05:00:00 GMT false181299 Westhampton Beach High School Advanced Science Research student Nicholas Borruso impressively placed first in the environmental category in the Junior Sciences and Humanities Symposium semifinals. The win earned him an invitation to the regional finals on Feb. 22 at CUNY York College. “Watching Nick present his research in front of the audience and judges, I felt like I was at a scientific conference watching a university professor,” said science research teacher Dianna Gobler. “He was polished and confident and explained his research with the perfect balance of technical terms while still making it relatable and understandable. He has a very bright future ahead in science, and I am so proud of him.” Borruso is one of only 16 high school researchers from Long Island to advance to the next level. To earn the spot, he competed against 320 of his peers. He will now vie for one of five spots to compete in Washington, D.C., for scholarships and other awards. “Winning first place in my category is a tremendous honor,” said Borruso. “It’s especially meaningful considering the incredibly talented pool of students who participated.” Borruso was selected to compete in the Junior Sciences and Humanities Symposium after submitting a research paper that showcased his findings from an individual research project, “Assessment of the Behavioral Impacts of PFAS on Danio rerio.” He said he selected the project, in which he studied the effects of forever chemicals on zebrafish, because he has always been interested in neuroscience and pollution of environmental health. His research was conducted over the summer as part of a Simons Summer Research Program at Stony Brook University, where he served as a fellow in Dr. Howard Sirotkin’s lab in the Department of Neurobiology and Behavior. Aside from participating in his school’s science research program, Borruso volunteers at a local emergency department and is vice president of his school’s robotics team, for which he inaugurated a mentor program for robotics in the middle school. He is also co-editor of his school’s “Seascapes” publication, participates in Key Club, and is a member of his school’s National, Language, Math and Science honor societies. He is an AP Scholar with Distinction and has earned an AP Capstone designation on his diploma. He plans to study neuroscience in college on a pre-med track. Date Added: 2/17/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181159 Mon, 17 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMT false181159 In recognition of Black History Month, Westhampton Beach High School business students have been engaging in lessons related to black entrepreneurs. Business Management students conducted a study on Chris Gardner, founder of Gardner Rich and Co., and created a mural in their school’s hallway featuring black entrepreneurs and CEOs. Accounting students watched “The Banker,” which tells the story of two African American entrepreneurs who built a multimillion-dollar banking and real estate portfolio in the 1960's and fought for housing integration. Virtual Enterprise students worked to create Instagram posts featuring successful black entrepreneurs. Date Added: 2/14/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181201 Fri, 14 Feb 2025 05:01:00 GMT false181201 Members of Westhampton Beach High School’s 11th and 12th Grade Symphonic Band recently hosted members of the Quogue Elementary School Band. During the traditional event, the high school ensemble performed Pops concert pieces and then invited the elementary school musicians to join them on the stage. Together, they performed part of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 and John Williams’ “Raiders March,” which the elementary school students will play at their spring concert. Date Added: 2/14/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181136 Fri, 14 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMT false181136 Talented musicians from Westhampton High School recently participated in the Hampton Music Educators Association’s annual music festival. To participate, the students were nominated by their music teacher and then selected by the festival committee. Rehearsals and performances took place at Eastport-South Manor Junior-Senior High School. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following student-musicians: Band Jackson Caputo Brett Geller Ruby Higinbotham Cameron Hipp Ava Kuklis Vincent LaGatta Matthew Moran Channing O'Neil Lucas Palmer Meghan Pomroy Bella Ruggiero Ari Schneider Brady Schultz Elizabeth Sultan William Sultan Chorus Allie Barry Dylan Fitzgerald Maggie Gilbride Emilia Harrington-Matros Madison Klammer Jordan Kolsin Alex Sfyroeras Emmy Shea Grace Smith Sophia Zaleski Ryan Zollweg Jazz Band Brett Geller Orchestra Amiya Jones Date Added: 2/13/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181125 Thu, 13 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMT false181125 Westhampton Beach High School’s “Seascapes” literary arts magazine has been named a Superior Magazine by the National Council of Teachers of English in the annual Recognizing Excellence in Art and Literary Magazines Contest. The competition included over 400 student magazines from 46 states and five countries. The publication earned the award for students’ impressive poetry, short stories and personal essays. “The students involved in this publication are passionate about promoting the literary arts and sparking creativity in their school community,” said adviser Joyce Schmieder. The student magazine is published once a year in June, with students meeting biweekly to perfect its content. Currently, there are 20 student writers involved in the publication, along with four editors — Nicholas Borruso, Ava Kuklis, Meghan Pomroy and Chloe Sword. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the student writers on a job well done. Date Added: 2/12/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181110 Wed, 12 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMT false181110 In honor of Black History Month, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students are learning about influential African Americans through a variety of activities sponsored by the school’s Equity Committee. One of these activities is an interactive “Celebrating Influential Elements of Black History” periodic table that is displayed in the school’s main hallway. The table includes QR codes that students can scan to gain more information through articles and videos. Each class will create their own project based on the information they gather from the periodic table. Using that information, they will develop a histogram that will be shared on the school’s central bulletin board for all to see. Date Added: 2/11/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181076 Tue, 11 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMT false181076 Date Added: 2/11/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181113 Tue, 11 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMT false181113 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students made predictions on which team would win Super Bowl LIX through an annual Souper Bowl fundraiser. They used donations of nonperishable goods to vote for the team they thought would win this year’s Super Bowl by placing them in a team bin. The final tally indicated that 74 students guessed the Kansas City Chiefs would win and 53 thought the Philadelphia Eagles would take home the title. All items collected will be donated to local food pantries. Date Added: 2/10/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=181075 Mon, 10 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMT false181075 Two impressive Westhampton Beach High School Advanced Science Research students have advanced to the semifinals of the Junior Sciences and Humanities Symposium. They are set to present their work at the semifinals on Feb. 9 at York College in Queens for a chance to qualify for the national competition in Washington, D.C. Students Nicholas Borruso and Fahtima Iqbal were selected after submitting impressive research papers that showcase their findings from individual research projects. For the semifinals, they will be required to give a talk on their findings to professors, students and fellow semifinalists from across Long Island. “I am super proud of Nicholas and Fahtima for making it this far in the prestigious competition,” said science research teacher Dianna Gobler. “I look forward to seeing them stand up to present and defend their hard work.” For his project, Borruso explored “Assessment of the Behavioral Impacts of PFAS on Danio rerio.” He said he selected the project because he has always been interested in neuroscience and pollution of environmental health. For his research, he studied the effects of forever chemicals on zebrafish. His research was conducted over the summer as part of a Stony Brook University research program, where he served as a fellow in Dr. Howard Sirotkin’s lab in the Department of Neurobiology and Behavior at Stony Brook University. “It is amazing to be able to compete in the Junior Sciences and Humanities Symposium,” said Borruso. “It shows that my hard work has paid off.” Aside from participating in his school’s science research program, Borruso volunteers in a local emergency department and is vice president of his school’s Robotics Team, for which he inaugurated a mentor program for robotics in the middle school. He is also co-editor of his school’s Seascapes publication, participates in Key Club, and is a member of his school’s National, Language, Math and Science honor societies. He is an AP Scholar with Distinction and has earned an AP Capstone designation on his diploma. He plans to study neuroscience in college on a pre-med track. Iqbal’s research project, “The Efficacy of 40mm Hertz Light and Sound Therapy in Relieving Motor Decline in an Alzheimer’s Model of D. melanogaster,” explores the utilization of auditory and light stimulations to improve cognitive and behavioral functions in Alzheimer’s patients. She selected the topic because she has always had an interest in neuroscience and Alzheimer’s disease. “There is so much that can be learned,” she said. For the past year, Iqbal worked on her project in her Advanced Science Research course. Of her acceptance into the symposium, she said, “It validates my hard work and time.” When not researching, Iqbal volunteers with the Westhampton Ambulance Company, where she earned an EMT certification. In school, she is treasurer of the Interact Club, vice president of the Science Club, serves on the Equity and Diversity Committee, and is a member of the National, Language, Math and Science honor societies. She is also an AP Scholar with Distinction and has earned an AP Capstone designation on her diploma. She plans to study neuroscience in college. Date Added: 2/5/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180993 Wed, 05 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMT false180993 To give back to her school and community while pursuing her interest in the art of crochet, Westhampton Beach High School junior Angela Tran recently inaugurated Crochet Corner, a new crochet and knitting club at her school. As part of the club, Tran is helping her peers to learn to crochet granny squares with a goal to sew them together into blankets that will be donated to the local senior center. As club members’ skills improve, she hopes that they can make beanies and other apparel to provide to local shelters and NICUs. Tran says she began crocheting in December of 2022 and has taught herself to make bags, beanies and now amigurumi, which are crocheted stuffed toys. “Crocheting is a genuinely gratifying experience,” she said. “It opens opportunities to DIY a bunch of cute apparel and items for yourself and your loved ones. It also allows you to slow down and focus solely on being present, which I have found to be my favorite part of the crochet process.” Teaching crochet also takes patience. “It can get confusing when you're making rounds and lose count in your head, and the first few works may not be as clean because you're just getting used to putting the right tension in the string,” she said. “However, the more you practice, the better you'll get.” When she doesn’t have yarn and a crochet hook in hand, Tran can be found participating in her school’s CURE environmental club, science club and art club. She also has a paid internship at a local museum and is a member of the Westhampton Ambulance Junior Program. In addition, she works at a local retail store and is working toward becoming a nail artist. She has a goal to pursue medicine and the sciences in college. The new Crochet Corner club meets biweekly on Fridays before school in the school’s library. Date Added: 2/4/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180867 Tue, 04 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMT false180867 Four Westhampton Beach High School students have been named local winners in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 535’s annual Voice of Democracy essay contest. Their stellar essays were written on the contest theme of “Is America Today Our Forefathers' Vision? Achieving honors in the Voice of Democracy essay contest and a chance to earn accolades at the state level were Abigail Halloran, Meghan Pomroy, Christopher Ramos and Luciana Reilly. Date Added: 2/3/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180862 Mon, 03 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMT false180862 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180939 Mon, 03 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMT false180939 Westhampton Beach High School Science Club members took home 10 medals at their first-ever Science Olympiad competition on Jan. 26 at Hauppauge High School. Led by science teacher Dianna Gobler, the 25 Science Club members participated and excelled in a variety of scientific challenges against 62 teams. Juniors Nathan Perl and Patrick Reilly earned fourth place in the Tower Build competition. The duo earned the spot by constructing a lightweight tower that held 15 kilograms of mass. Juniors Annabelle Najdzion and Julia Sobhani placed fifth in the Write It/Do It competition, which tested clear scientific procedure skills. Also placing highly were Aidyn Beebe-Edwards in Entomology (11th place), Noor Sohail and Angela Tran in Dynamic Planet (13th place), Sandra Clarke, Emily Edwards and Emma O'Came in Experimental Design (15th place), and Emma O'Came and Julia Sobhani in Ecology (15th place). Date Added: 1/30/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180859 Thu, 30 Jan 2025 05:00:00 GMT false180859 To celebrate Lunar New Year, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students in grades K-5 are learning about the customs and traditions surrounding the holiday. They have studied the dragon parade, lion dances and lantern festivals. Date Added: 1/29/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180858 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 05:00:00 GMT false180858 Westhampton Beach High School hornist Brett Geller recently performed at the SCMEA Day of Horn at Northport High School. The sophomore earned the spot in the ensemble of over 100 hornists by scoring an A-plus rating on a Level 6 NYSSMA solo last spring. This is not the first time that Geller has performed with a prestigious ensemble. He was also selected to perform at the All-County Horn Festival, at Hofstra Band Day, and in the Hampton Music Educators Association (HMEA) High School Band, the HMEA Jazz Band and the SCMEA Division III Band. When not performing at festivals, Geller can be found playing with his school’s concert, pep and jazz bands, as well as with the pit orchestra. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Geller on a job well done. Date Added: 1/28/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180857 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 05:00:00 GMT false180857 Westhampton Beach Elementary School fourth graders learned about the life and history of Native Americans during a Journeys into American Indian Territory program on Jan. 22. During the event, students explored Native American artifacts such as clothing, dolls and pottery and listened to traditional stories. Date Added: 1/27/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180775 Mon, 27 Jan 2025 05:00:00 GMT false180775 Each year, Westhampton Beach Middle School hosts a community read program where students, teachers, community members and families unite to read the same book and collectively experience how the power of storytelling brings people together. This year, the initiative commenced with a full day of kindness that will continue as students read this year’s book, “Pay It Forward” by Catherine Ryan Hyde. As part of the kickoff, teachers participated in a full day of professional development while their students took part in an assembly with Richard Specht, a motivational speaker who advocates for kindness. His poignant talk was followed by a showing of the film “Batkid Begins: The Wish Heard Around the World.” After being presented with this year’s book, students were challenged by Principal Charisse Miller to each complete three acts of kindness. Their pay-it-forward acts will be charted and featured in a digital storyboard. Date Added: 1/24/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180776 Fri, 24 Jan 2025 05:00:00 GMT false180776 For their hard work, determination and dedication to academics, seven Westhampton Beach High School students have earned New York State Scholarships for Academic Excellence. The students qualified for the scholarships based on their exceptional GPAs and Regents test scores. The scholarships can be used toward a New York State institution of higher education. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates students Luke Albert, Nicholas Borruso, Matilda Buchen, Abigail Curran, Fahtima Iqbal, Meghan Pomroy and Zoey Rudolf on this accomplishment. Date Added: 1/23/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180767 Thu, 23 Jan 2025 05:00:00 GMT false180767 Westhampton Beach Elementary School third grade students marked Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day by learning more about his life and accomplishments. The students also spent time painting portraits of him. Date Added: 1/22/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180766 Wed, 22 Jan 2025 05:00:00 GMT false180766 Fifth grade students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School recently presented an amazing performance of “Bebop with Aesop,” a musical based on five of Aesop's fables, including “The Tortoise and the Hare” and “The Boy Who Cried Wolf.” Music teacher Alexandra Gogas, who directed the production, said she selected it because it “teaches the various morals from each fable in a very fun and entertaining fashion with great music.” The production featured 45 cast and crew members who worked hard to perfect a performance that was enjoyed by all. Date Added: 1/17/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180701 Fri, 17 Jan 2025 05:00:00 GMT false180701 The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Westhampton Beach High School girls wrestler Lily Blenk, who was named to Newsday’s Top 30 Long Island Girls Wrestlers list. Blenk, a sophomore, was recognized for placing third in the Long Island championships as a freshman. Date Added: 1/8/2025 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180559 Wed, 08 Jan 2025 05:00:00 GMT false180559 The Westhampton Beach School District is now registering children for the 2025-2026 school year. To be eligible, students must be 5 years old as of Dec. 1, 2025. In-person registration will be held at Westhampton Beach Elementary School on Thursday, Jan. 30, from 9-11 a.m., 1:30-2:30 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m. Registration packets and additional information are available online at https://whbschools.org/parents_students/student_registration. For questions, please call 631-288-3800, ext. 231. Date Added: 1/6/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180267 Mon, 06 Jan 2025 05:00:00 GMT false180267 Date Added: 12/20/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180417 Mon, 30 Dec 2024 05:00:00 GMT false180417 Members of the Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise team recently engaged with 33 VE teams from 19 school districts across Long Island at an annual networking event at Atlantis Sea Star Ballroom. During the event, students showcased their VE marketing materials and products and conducted simulated business transactions at trade show-style tables. The event emphasized the value of networking and public speaking, as each firm delivered an elevator pitch to the audience in the ballroom. The Westhampton Beach team, PuraVie, displayed their virtual eco-conscious business offering an innovative solution to reduce single-use plastics. PuraVie sells dissolvable cleaning tablets paired with reusable bottles, providing a convenient and sustainable approach to household cleaning. The event was organized by Westhampton Beach High School VE teacher Amy Demchak with the assistance of students Rylee McGinness and Carlos Perez Alonso. The Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise program requires students to create a business concept and formulate plans to market it. They compete and present their plans at several events throughout the year. Date Added: 12/20/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180421 Fri, 20 Dec 2024 05:00:00 GMT false180421 Westhampton Beach High School chamber singers brought holiday cheer to the residents of the Westhampton Care Center on Dec. 12. During their visit, the singers performed their concert repertoire and delivered handmade holiday cards to the residents. Date Added: 12/18/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180338 Wed, 18 Dec 2024 05:00:00 GMT false180338 The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to high school cheerleader Lana Blowes, who was named to Newsday’s Top 50 Long Island Cheerleaders list. Blowes, a senior back spot and side base, was recognized as a four-year varsity cheerleader with elite level skills, including low to high tick tock full arounds, back handspring ups, ball ups and full ups. Date Added: 12/12/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180260 Tue, 17 Dec 2024 05:00:00 GMT false180260 Westhampton Beach High School varsity girls basketball players Sandra Clarke, Kate Sweet and Jasmine Taylor were named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Girls Basketball Players list. Clark, a junior guard, was honored for averaging 15 points as a sophomore. Sweet, a sophomore guard, was recognized for her defensive presence and averaging 12 points, six steals and four rebounds last season. Taylor, a junior forward, was acknowledged for averaging 10 points and 10 rebounds as a sophomore. The district extends its congratulations to the athletes. Date Added: 12/10/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180211 Mon, 16 Dec 2024 05:00:00 GMT false180211 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students kicked off the holiday gift-giving season by shopping for loved ones at the PTA’s annual holiday fair. They spent time picking out the perfect gift from a large variety of items. Date Added: 12/10/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180208 Fri, 13 Dec 2024 05:00:00 GMT false180208 The Westhampton Beach School District Board of Education recently awarded their inaugural Great Hurricane Award to Jake Sweet, head custodian at Westhampton Beach Elementary School. Sweet was honored for his hard work and dedication. “Jake takes pride in the elementary school, and we are incredibly proud of him and his work,” said Dr. Carolyn Probst, superintendent of schools. The Great Hurricane Award aims to honor staff throughout the year who make a difference every day within the school district. “A hurricane is a storm of indomitable force, but more than that, here in Westhampton Beach it stands for honor, hard work, dedication, loyalty and tradition,” said Dr. Probst. Date Added: 12/13/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180299 Fri, 13 Dec 2024 05:00:00 GMT false180299 As part of their annual toy drive, members of the Westhampton Beach Elementary School Student Council have been collecting donations throughout the month of December. All of the items collected will be donated to those in need. Date Added: 12/10/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180207 Thu, 12 Dec 2024 05:00:00 GMT false180207 Westhampton Beach High School senior clarinetist Lilah Caputo was not only one of 30 clarinetists from across the state to perform at the New York State School Music Association All-State Festival on Dec. 8, but she was also selected to sit first chair. "I was so honored,” said Caputo, who has been playing the clarinet since the fourth grade. This is not the first time that Caputo has earned a first chair seat; she sat first chair at the Suffolk County Music Educators Association All-County Festival. She has also performed with the New York State Band Directors Association High School Honor Band. "It was a wonderful experience,” said Caputo, adding that she made several new friends at the All-State festival. Caputo was selected to perform at each of the festivals based on her impressive scores at the NYSSMA Solo Evaluation Festival, teacher recommendations and ranking. When not performing at festivals or with her school’s band, Caputo takes part in her school’s French, Science and Yearbook clubs. She is also a member of her school’s student government. In the fall, she plans to attend college to study biology. She also plans to keep music in her life. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Lilah Caputo on her impressive musical accomplishments. Date Added: 12/11/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180206 Wed, 11 Dec 2024 05:00:00 GMT false180206 Jason Cohen, director of health, physical education and athletics for the Westhampton Beach School District, proudly announces that the following students, teams and coaches have received postseason recognition for their participation in the fall sports program. Multiple Westhampton Beach fall student-athletes earned designation as All-State, All-Island, All-County, All-Division, All-League and All-Conference in their respective sports. Boys Golf All-League: Charles Beasley, Zachary Berger, Nicholas Borruso, Reid Groth and Owen Jessop All-County: Zachary Berger and Reid Groth All-Conference: Charles Beasley, Zachary Berger, Reid Groth and Owen Jessop Newsday All-Long Island: Zachary Berger and Owen Jessop Girls Tennis Coach of the Year: Matt Reed All-League: Margaret Gilbride and Julia Ryvicker All-County: Gabriela Arango, Diana Elliott, Zoe Grellet-Aumont and Madeline Montgomery All-State, All-Long Island First Team: Ava Borruso and Matilda Buchen Boys Soccer All-League: Grady Ambrose and Charles Schwenker All-Conference: Lincoln O’Connell All-Academic: Joshua McCarthy Girls Soccer All-League - Ava Failla, Khloe Hoda, Mia Valenzuela All County Academic: Halle Geller, Morgan Giacchetto Girls Cross-Country All-League: Lily Blank, Fina DiBiaso and Lily Strebel All-County: Fina DiBiaso and Lily Strebel All-State: Lily Strebel Boys Cross-Country Coach of the Year: Hannah Martin All-League: Dylan Blenk, Magnus Haynia, Marcus Haynia and John Reilly All-County: John Reilly Girls Volleyball Coach of the Year: Sarah Fabian All-Classification: Katie Burke, Karly Pascale and Shannon Sweet All-League: Shannon Sweet All-Academic: Makayla Vignieri Top 100 Long Island Volleyball Players: Katie Burke Boys Volleyball All-County: Cameron Giordano and Aaron Kiefer All-Conference: Jude Allen, Mustafa Gulsen and James Monserrate All-Division: Gavin Cole, Ahlias Flores and Thomas Livia All-Academic: Volpe Giancarlo and James Monserrate All-County Academic: Anthony Messina Football All-County: Finn Drake, David Rankin and Brody Schaffer All-Conference: Aidan Collins-Arrasate, Finn Drake, Patrick Fay, David Rankin, David Salazar, Brody Schaffer and Bradyn Spanbock All-Division: Drew Calloway, Jake Calloway and Johnpaul Peters All-State: David Rankin and Brody Schaffer All-Region: Finn Drake, David Rankin and Brody Schaffer All-Academic, Golden 11: Finn Drake Date Added: 12/10/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180177 Tue, 10 Dec 2024 05:00:00 GMT false180177 Westhampton Beach High School athletes Jorden Bennett and Truman Hahn were named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Boys Basketball Players list. Bennett, a senior center, was honored for averaging 17.2 points and 12.1 rebounds as a junior. Hahn, a junior guard, was recognized for averaging 12.1 points last season. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to both athletes. Date Added: 12/9/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180155 Mon, 09 Dec 2024 05:00:00 GMT false180155 Date Added: 12/6/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180138 Fri, 06 Dec 2024 05:00:00 GMT false180138 For the third year in a row, Westhampton Beach Middle School students brought home impressive awards from the New York State YMCA Youth and Government Conference, which brings together young leaders from across the region to simulate the legislative process and engage in civic discourse. Working diligently over the past several months with the help of their dedicated teacher, Kelly Massaro, the 71 students prepared seven original bills to present at the conference. Of those bills, two of them were recognized with Best Bill awards. Those bills focused on the right to read and child influencers. In addition to their legislative achievements, several students earned individual accolades. Matthew Palamidessi and Evan Pereyra were honored with Best Debater awards, demonstrating their exceptional oratory skills and persuasive arguments. Michael Kessler received the Overall Delegate award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the conference, and Pereyra secured the coveted position of Next Year’s Conference Governor, a testament to his leadership abilities and potential to inspire future generations of young leaders. “I am incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication of my students,” said Massaro. “Their accomplishments at the Youth and Government Conference are a testament to their commitment to public service and their potential to make a positive impact on their communities.” Date Added: 12/3/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180046 Tue, 03 Dec 2024 05:00:00 GMT false180046 The Westhampton Beach School District is now accepting nominations for its Wall of Fame. The wall, which was inaugurated in 2002, aims to memorialize the extraordinary achievements of the Westhampton Beach School District’s alumni, former faculty and staff. The district is seeking nominations of individuals who have made significant strides in academics, business, community service, fine arts and public service. The Wall of Fame is a permanent fixture in the district’s auditorium and honors inductees with individual plaques that commemorate their achievements. To date, 30 individuals have been honored. Nomination forms can be accessed on the district’s website and submitted digitally or mailed to Jason Cohen, director of health, physical education and athletics, 49 Lilac Road, Westhampton Beach. Nominations must be submitted by April 1, 2025. Inductees will be honored at the Westhampton Beach High School homecoming game in the fall of 2025. To access the nomination forms, visit: https://whbschools.org/departments/athletics_wall_of_fame Date Added: 12/2/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=180040 Mon, 02 Dec 2024 05:00:00 GMT false180040 Westhampton Beach Middle School science teacher Greg Izzo has been named a New York State Master Teacher and high school counselor Erika Habersaat as a New York State Master Counselor. “The district is very proud of Greg Izzo and Erika Habersaat,” said Superintendent Dr. Carolyn Probst. “Both of these educators are constantly refining the craft for the benefit of our students. It is exciting to see that kind of hard work and commitment to excellence recognized by New York State.” To earn the master distinctions, Izzo and Habersaat were required to have letters of recommendation submitted on their behalf, take a high-level content exam, and participate in individual and panel interviews. They both started the process in January 2024. With the master titles, Izzo and Habersaat will engage in four years of networking and professional development opportunities with colleague from across the region. “I'm extremely excited for the Master Teacher Program, as it will allow for rigorous professional development with other Long Island master teachers for the next four years,” said Izzo. “I will bring newly gained knowledge and experiences back into my earth science classroom, which I hope will excite students to pursue STEM pathways in the future.” Izzo has taught in the middle school for the past 14 years. He previously taught in the Port Washington School District. Likewise, Habersaat said she is “looking forward to networking with other counselors in New York and the professional development opportunities.” Habersaat has been working as a counselor in Westhampton Beach for 18 years. She was previously an academic and career adviser at Kingsborough Community College. Date Added: 11/19/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179857 Tue, 19 Nov 2024 05:00:00 GMT false179857 Twelve Westhampton Beach High School senior athletes penned their names to letters of intent during a recent college signing ceremony. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following student-athletes: Aidan Arrastate, Florida Southern College, lacrosse Charlie Besley, Wesleyan University, lacrosse Finn Drake, Manhattan College, lacrosse Maya Farnan, University of Pennsylvania, lacrosse Lily Graves, Binghamton University, lacrosse Owen Jessop, Davidson College, golf Shannon Killoran, Wagner College, lacrosse Reese King, University of North Carolina, lacrosse Bri Provenzano, Quinnipiac University, lacrosse James Sarno, SUNY Oneonta, lacrosse Lily Strebel, University of Richmond, track and field Meaghan Tufano, Hofstra University, lacrosse Date Added: 11/18/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179798 Mon, 18 Nov 2024 05:00:00 GMT false179798 As part of an earth science lesson, Westhampton Beach High School eighth grade students in Robert Coleman’s class each created a ninth planet in the solar system. In addition to painting their planets, the students also named them, calculated their rotation and orbital path, and determined their distance from the sun. All the planets are being displayed in the school’s library. Date Added: 11/13/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179650 Wed, 13 Nov 2024 05:00:00 GMT false179650 Westhampton Beach Elementary School paid tribute to local veterans with a second annual ceremony on Nov. 7. During the event, students learned about the history of Veterans Day, met local veterans from all branches of the military and heard from guest speaker Sergeant William M. Hughes Jr. To culminate the ceremony, students sang “Proud of Our Veterans.” Date Added: 11/12/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179649 Tue, 12 Nov 2024 05:00:00 GMT false179649 Date Added: 11/12/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179645 Tue, 12 Nov 2024 05:00:00 GMT false179645 Westhampton Beach Middle School eighth grade family and consumer sciences students made special connections with first graders at Westhampton Beach Elementary School through a pillow pocket project. As part of the initiative, the middle school students worked with their first grade buddies to create a pillow design on paper. The middle schoolers then worked for six weeks constructing a pillow reflecting their buddy’s design. They brought the pillow designs to life by cutting fabric, pinning and operating a sewing machine. Once complete, the middle school students hand-delivered the pillows to their excited buddies. Date Added: 11/5/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179487 Tue, 05 Nov 2024 05:00:00 GMT false179487 Seven students were inducted into the Westhampton Beach High School National Honor Society during a recent ceremony. The new members were inducted in recognition of their demonstrated excellence in service, character, scholarship and leadership. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Aden Ali, Brooke Bahr, Drew Calloway, Jayson Kampfer, Graelyn LoRusso, Maxwell Orr and Angad Singh. Date Added: 11/4/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179486 Mon, 04 Nov 2024 05:00:00 GMT false179486 Westhampton Beach High School’s literary arts magazine, Seascapes, earned several awards at the Empire State School Press Association awards ceremony at the Syracuse University Lubin House in New York City. The publication was awarded Best Overall Literary Magazine, Silver for Best Overall Cover Design, and Silver for Best Written Work in a Literary Magazine, written by Kate Pomroy. Accepting the awards on behalf of Seascapes were (from left) Brooke Bahr, Charleigh Devenney, Chloe Sword and Ava Kuklis. Date Added: 11/1/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179333 Fri, 01 Nov 2024 04:00:00 GMT false179333 Westhampton Beach High School business students recently attended the New York Jets’ Sports Business Day at MetLife Stadium. During the day, the 50 students met Jets employees from various departments to learn more about careers in sports management and marketing. The students also toured the stadium. Date Added: 10/25/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179331 Fri, 25 Oct 2024 04:00:00 GMT false179331 Westhampton Beach High School’s Digital Generation students recently participated in a team building and elevator pitch competition at Stony Brook University. During the competition, students collaborated with their peers from five Suffolk County school districts to select a topic that they will research and present a pitch about. Topics are related to how technology and social media have impacted industries, including media production, gaming, music and tourism. Through the Digital Generation course, students can earn college credits through Stony Brook University. Date Added: 10/24/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179332 Thu, 24 Oct 2024 04:00:00 GMT false179332 Hurricane pride was on display as the Westhampton Beach school community gathered for homecoming on Oct. 18. Students filled the stands to cheer on the Hurricanes as they took on the Hauppauge Eagles under the lights. Throughout the game, the energy was high as the crowd was treated to routines from the cheerleading team and songs from the band. School spirit carried over into halftime. First, the homecoming court was introduced. The cheerleaders then put on a wonderful performance and invited students from the elementary cheer program to join them on the field. To cap off the festivities, the Hurricanes celebrated a 49-10 win against the Eagles. Date Added: 10/21/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179254 Mon, 21 Oct 2024 05:00:00 GMT false179254 As part of Fire Prevention Week, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students participated in fire safety lessons with members of the Westhampton Beach Fire Department. Students learned about general fire safety, smoke alarms and fire extinguishers and practiced calling 911 and jumping out the window of the fire department’s smoke house simulator. Date Added: 10/21/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179195 Mon, 21 Oct 2024 04:00:00 GMT false179195 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students recently raised over $30,000 for their school through a Bubble Run and Raise Craze fundraiser. As part of the fundraiser, students secured sponsorships to run in the Bubble Run and donations by promising to perform acts of kindness in return. They completed a multitude of individual and schoolwide good deeds, including writing cards to residents of local assisted living facilities, helping to pick up trash, collecting crayons for homeless shelters and sharing positive messages. The fundraiser culminated with Principal Jeremy Garritano getting slimed. He agreed to be slimed if students met their fundraising goal. The funds will be used to purchase STEM equipment and upgrades to the school’s greenhouse, as well as provide for field trips. Date Added: 10/18/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179194 Fri, 18 Oct 2024 04:00:00 GMT false179194 Westhampton Beach High School has earned a place on the College Board’s AP School Honor Roll with a Gold level status for the 2023-2024 school year. This is the second year in a row that the school has earned the distinction. To earn the recognition, 65% or more of the graduating class took at least one AP exam, 35% or more scored a 3 or higher on at least one AP exam, and 5% or more took five or more AP exams during high school. The distinction honors the school for its ability to provide students with opportunities to earn college credit and for maximizing college readiness. Date Added: 10/17/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179170 Thu, 17 Oct 2024 04:00:00 GMT false179170 Ninety-three Westhampton Beach High School students were inducted into academic honor societies during an induction ceremony on Oct. 9. To become a World Language Honor Society member, students were required to maintain a 92 or higher average in every year of their respective language classes and be enrolled in an AP Spanish or AP French class during their senior year. Science and Math Honor Society inductees were required to maintain a minimum 92 average across all science or math courses taken, plus enrollment in at least one AP science course or advanced math class as a senior. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following inductees: Luke Albert (M, S, W), Aden Ali (M, S), Chloe Anastasopoulos (W), Riley Arm (M, S, W), Brooke Bahr (W), Leila Batumoglu (M, S, W), Kali Baumiller (M, W), Sydney Beardslee (M, W), Charles Beasley (M, W), Alexandra Behmoiram (W), Sophia Biondi (M, S, W), Anna Blanco (M, S, W), Nicholas Borruso (M, S, W), Matilda Buchen (M, S), Drew Calloway (M, S, W), Lilah Caputo (S), Ava Caruana (M, W), Michelle Castro (W), Kayla Coffey (W), Kailyn Cunniff (W), Abigail Curran (M, S, W), Cole Dawson (M, S), Hailey Donahoe (M, S, W), Finn Drake (W), Willow DuBrovin (M, S, W), Maya Farnan (M,W), Lukas Fine (M, W), Halle Geller (M, S, W), Morgan Giacchetto (M, S, W), Margaret Gilbride (W), Lily Graves (W), Ava Greengrass (W), Alexandra Gurba (M, S, W), Marcus Haynia (M, S, W), Cole Hunter (W), Jadyn Hunter (M, S, W), Lauren Hunter (M, S, W), Alessandro Imundi (M), Fahtima Iqbal (M, S), Zoe Jankowski (W), Owen Jessop (W), Colin Jiang (M), Jamie Kelly (M, W), Reese King (W), Graelyn LoRusso (M, S), Sienna Macdonald (W), Lucy Mansfield (M, S, W), Kaitlyn Mazurkiewicz (M, S, W), Ezekiel McCrary (M), Rylee McGinness (W), Anthony Messina (M, W), James Monserrate (M, S), Mathew Moran (W), Regan Moran (W), Michelle Muralles (M, W), Valeria Nazaretski (M, S, W), Michael Noone (W), Finn Norton (S, W), Lincoln O'Connell (M, W), Maxwell Orr (M, S), MikaiLing Pantophlet (M, S, W), Mia Pazera (W), Lily Pereyra (M, S, W), Noe Perez (M, W), Nuris Perez Zuleta (W), Meghan Pomroy (M, S, W), Leyla Prieto (W), Gabriella Provenzano (W), Dante Quinones (W), Jordan Razzano (M, S, W), Luciana Reilly (M, W), Angelina Rinaldi (W), Zoey Rudolph (M, S, W), Antonella Russo (M, S, W), Julia Ryvicker (W), David Salazar (M, W), Kyle Salerno (W), Lana Salvaggio (W), Isabelle Schneider (M, S, W), Haley Stoehr (S, W), Lily Strebel (M, S, W), Shannon Sweet (M, S, W), Angie Tirado-Cocha (M), Mia Valenzuela (M, W), Ramiro Veliz (W), Makayla Vignieri (M, S, W), Christopher Volkman (M, W), Giancarlo Volpe (M, S, W), Nicolas Warchol (S), Eva Wax (W), Melanie Yac Pixabaj (W), Samantha Zimmer (S, W) and Ryan Zollweg (M, W). Date Added: 10/16/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179169 Wed, 16 Oct 2024 04:00:00 GMT false179169 The Westhampton Beach School District earned an impressive top school ranking by Niche for 2025. The district ranked No. 8 in Suffolk County and No. 50 in New York State. The ranking was based on several factors, including academic performance, teacher quality, student diversity, and feedback from students and parents. The district earned an overall grade of A. “We are pleased that our district received a top ranking,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. “We will continue to strive for excellence in the education provided to the students of Westhampton Beach.” Date Added: 10/15/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179137 Tue, 15 Oct 2024 04:00:00 GMT false179137 Westhampton Beach High School is excited to present its production of “Clue” on Friday, Nov. 1, and Saturday, Nov. 2, at 7:00 p.m., and on Sunday, Nov. 3, at 2 p.m. Tickets are free. The fall play, written by Sandy Rustin, will feature an ensemble with many actors assuming different characters from the game Clue, including the familiar Miss Scarlet, Mrs. White, Mrs. Peacock, Professor Plum, Mr. Green, Colonel Mustard and many others. Directed by Kimet Speed, the show will have audiences guessing, “Who done it?” Date Added: 10/11/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179107 Fri, 11 Oct 2024 04:00:00 GMT false179107 Westhampton Beach Elementary School is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month through a variety of activities. Students are sharing biographies of famous Latinos and Latinas over the school’s public address system and on display boards in their school’s hallways. They have also been reading books and watching videos on the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month and the different cultures and traditions within Spanish-speaking countries. Additionally, in Spanish class, they have been talking about symbols of Hispanic culture. Date Added: 10/10/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179105 Thu, 10 Oct 2024 04:00:00 GMT false179105 Westhampton Beach High School students recently celebrated World Health Day through activities prepared by HUGS, Inc. of Westhampton Beach. During their gym periods, students rotated through stations that connected to different aspects of mental health and well-being. For example, at the Mental Health Jenga station, they answered questions about mental health, and at the Power of Play station, they learned how physical health is connected to mental health. Date Added: 10/9/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179074 Wed, 09 Oct 2024 04:00:00 GMT false179074 Westhampton Beach High School has been named a School of Distinction for the 2023-2024 school year by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association. To earn this recognition, an impressive 100% of the school’s varsity teams were required to hold a GPA above 90%. Westhampton Beach is among 114 schools to receive this noteworthy designation. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates its varsity teams on an outstanding job. Date Added: 10/8/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179025 Tue, 08 Oct 2024 04:00:00 GMT false179025 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students are raising funds for their school through a new fundraiser that kicked off on Oct. 1 with an inspiring assembly. The fundraiser, Raise Craze, raises funds through acts of kindness. Through Oct. 15, students will be asking for donations and performing acts of kindness in return. They are pledging to do individual and schoolwide good deeds, including writing cards to residents of local assisted living facilities, helping to pick up trash, collecting crayons for homeless shelters and sharing positive messages. They will also be participating in a bubble fun run featuring an obstacle course on Oct. 11. If students attain the school’s fundraising goal of $30,000, Principal Jeremy Garritano promises to allow himself to be slimed. The funds will be used to purchase STEM equipment and upgrades to the school’s greenhouse, as well as provide for field trips. Date Added: 10/7/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179024 Mon, 07 Oct 2024 04:00:00 GMT false179024 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students recently celebrated National Walk to School Day. The annual event brought out smiles on the faces of students as they walked to their school. Walk to School Day aims to encourage communities to become safer places for walking for everyone in the community. Date Added: 10/4/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=179023 Fri, 04 Oct 2024 04:00:00 GMT false179023 Westhampton Beach High School students recently spent their lunch periods creating yarn pumpkins that will be delivered to the residents of the Westhampton Care Center. The community service project is part of a collaboration between the high school and the Westhampton Free Library. Each month, the library brings a new community service project to the high school for students to take part in. The initiative was inaugurated last year with students working with the library to make cards for veterans. Date Added: 10/1/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178962 Wed, 02 Oct 2024 04:00:00 GMT false178962 Eleven Westhampton Beach High School students have earned national recognition through the College Board National Recognition Program, which colleges use to identify academically competitive, underrepresented students. Christopher Volkman earned the National Indigenous Recognition Award; Sandra Clarke was recognized with the National African American Recognition Award; Christian Bruschi and David Salazar earned the First Generation Hispanic Recognition Award; Anna Blanco, Matthew Hernandez, Brooke Huwer and Lauren Kelly were recognized with the National Hispanic Recognition Award; and Leila Batumoglu, Colin Jiang and Angela Tran earned the First Generation National Recognition Award. To earn the recognitions, the students were required to hold a grade point average of 3.5 or higher, excel on the PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10 exams, or earn a score of 3 or higher on two or more AP exams. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to these students for their hard work and dedication to academics. Date Added: 9/20/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178782 Fri, 20 Sep 2024 04:00:00 GMT false178782 Westhampton Beach High School senior Meghan Pomroy was named a semifinalist in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program. Pomroy is now among 16,000 students across the nation competing for $28 million in scholarships. Additionally, Luke Albert, Nicholas Borruso, Lily Pereyra and Zoey Rudolf have been recognized as Commended Students as a result of their outstanding scores on the qualifying exam. The seniors are among 34,000 students throughout the nation to earn the distinction and be recognized for their “exceptional academic promise.” To earn the title, they placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2023 PSAT. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the seniors on this achievement. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178763 Thu, 19 Sep 2024 04:00:00 GMT false178763 Ten Westhampton Beach High School students have been selected as performers in the New York State Council of Administrators of Music Education 2024 All-County Music Festival. Alexandra Behmoiram, Mia Pazera and Emmy Shea, all sopranos, will perform with the treble chorus. Margaret Gilbride and Ryan Zollweg, altos, along with Aidan Judd, bass, and Brady Schultz, tenor, will appear in the mixed chorus. Playing with the band will be Lilah Caputo and Ava Kuklis on clarinet, and Meghan Pomroy will perform percussion in the orchestra. The students were selected for the ensembles based on their scores at the NYSSMA Solo Evaluation Festival, teacher recommendations and ranking. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the musicians for their hard work and dedication. Date Added: 9/11/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178631 Tue, 17 Sep 2024 04:00:00 GMT false178631 Four Westhampton Beach High School students have been selected to perform at the All-State Festival of the 2024 New York State School Music Association Winter Conference, and one was named as an alternate. Alexandra Behmoiram, a soprano, was named to the treble chorus and Mia Pazera, also a soprano, will perform with the mixed chorus. Lilah Caputo, a clarinetist, will play with the symphonic band and Brady Schultz, a tenor, was selected as an alternate for the mixed chorus. The students were selected for the ensembles based on their scores at the NYSSMA Solo Evaluation Festival, teacher recommendations and ranking. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the musicians for their hard work and dedication. Date Added: 9/16/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178632 Mon, 16 Sep 2024 04:00:00 GMT false178632 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates girls volleyball player Katie Burke, a junior, for being named to Newsday’s Top 50 Long Island Girls Volleyball Players list and Cameron Giordano and Aaron Kiefer, both seniors, for being recognized in Newsday’s Top 50 Long Island Boys Volleyball Players list. Burke earned her place on the list for tallying 110 kills, 180 digs and 14 aces last season. Giordano was recognized as a “highly talented setter and well-rounded player,” while it was noted that Kiefer totaled 205 digs and 18 aces and posted a 2.3 serve receive rating to help Westhampton reach the Division II state championship match last season. Date Added: 9/13/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178675 Fri, 13 Sep 2024 04:00:00 GMT false178675 An impressive 145 Westhampton Beach High School students received special Advanced Placement designations based on achievement in college-level coursework. To earn Scholar recognition, students are required to score a 3 or higher on three or more AP exams; for Scholar with Honor, they must earn a 3.25 on all AP exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of those exams; and for Scholar with Distinction, they must receive an average score of 3.5 on all AP exams and grades of 4 or higher on five or more of those exams. Additionally, 43 seniors have earned an AP Capstone diploma, and 17 students received an AP Seminar and Research Certificate. The district congratulates the following students: AP Scholars Chloe Anastasopoulos, Trey Aponte, Curtis Barczak, Alexandra Behmoiram, Reagan Brewer, Elliejean Burke, Hudson Caruso, Michelle Castro, Maya Cirincione, Ava Combuechen, Diana Cresciullo, Kannon Davis, Evangeline Dennehy, Alexa Detke, Morgan DeVerna, Alana Dixon, Caeden Dorn, Leandro Esquivel, Ava Failla, Lukas Fine, Margaret Gilbride, Abigail Gomez, Ava Greengrass, Mustafa Gulsen, Ginger Hendrickson, Matthew Hernandez, Mackenzie Herrera, Khloe Hoda, Emma Holfelder, Owen Jessop, Colin Jiang, Jayson Kampfer, Reese King, Mitchell Li, Aimee Lindahl, Charles LoRusso, Aislinn Marasigan, Nathaniel Methven, Tessa Mongelluzzo, Michelle Muralles, Michael Noone, Finn Norton, Maxwell Orr, Nick Pellicano, Olivia Purta, Dante Quinones, Constantine Reilly, Lucas Renna, Priscila Ribeiro, Julia Ryvicker, David Salazar, Kyle Salerno, Lana Salvaggio, Alexander Sfyroeras, Chloe Sword, Meaghan Tufano, Katelynn Vargas and Ana Way AP Scholars with Honor Esvin Alvarado, Grady Ambrose, Tess Ashley, Charles Beasley, Dagny Beasley, Maiya Boughal, Mynor Chacon-Fuentes, Charleigh Devenney, Jenna Di Domenico, Hailey Donahoe, Finn Drake, Quintin Dunn, Verona Easton, Levi Emerson, Kara Flynn, Diane Georgieva, Cameron Giordano, Eleanor Greiner, Aidan Judd, Anthony Messina, Joshua McCarthy, Lincoln O'Connell, Haley Stoehr, Angela Tran and Christopher Volkman AP Scholars with Distinction Luke Albert, Mia Albinson, Aden Ali, Riley Arm, Brooke Bahr, Leila Batumoglu, Kali Baumiller, Sydney Beardslee, Sophia Biondi, Anna Blanco, Nicholas Borruso, Christian Bruschi, Matilda Buchen, Drew Calloway, Lilah Caputo, Abigail Curran, Cole Dawson, Willow DuBrovin, Emily Edwards, Halle Geller, Morgan Giacchetto, Nicholas Gomez, Alexandra Gurba, Marcus Haynia, Jadyn Hunter, Lauren Hunter, Brooke Huwer, Alessandro Imundi, Fahtima Iqbal, Jamie Kelly Ava Kuklis, Graelyn Lorusso, Lucy Mansfield, Kaitlynn Mazurkiewicz, Ezekiel McCrary, James Monserrate, Matthew Moran, Annabelle Najdzion, Valeria Nazaretski, Emma O'Came, Selin Ozkazanc, MikaiLing Pantophlet, Lily Pereyra, Nathan Perl, Meghan Pomroy, Jordan Razzano, John Reilly, Luciana Reilly, Zoey Rudolph, Antonella Russo, Isabelle Schneider, Brady Schultz, Julia Sobhani, Noor Sohail, Lily Strebel, Shannon Sweet, Emma Vaz, Makayla Vignieri, Giancarlo Volpe, Henry Walker, Nicolas Warchol and Samantha Zimmer AP Capstone Diploma Luke Albert, Esvin Alvarado, Brooke Bahr, Leila Batumoglu, Kali Baumiller, Sydney Beardslee, Charles Beasley, Sophia Biondi, Anna Blanco, Nicholas Borruso, Matilda Buchen, Drew Calloway, Lilah Caputo, Abigail Curran, Cole Dawson, Willow DuBrovin, Halle Geller, Morgan Giacchetto, Alexandra Gurba, Marcus Haynia, Jadyn Hunter, Lauren Hunter, Fahtima Iqbal, Jamie Kelly, Graelyn Lorusso, Lucy Mansfield, James Monserrate, Matthew Moran, Valeria Nazaretski, Lily Pereyra, Meghan Pomroy, Jordan Razzano, Luciana Reilly, Zoey Rudolph, Julia Ryvicker, Isabelle Schneider, Lily Strebel, Shannon Sweet, Makayla Vignieri, Christopher Volkman, Giancarlo Volpe, Henry Walker and Nicolas Warchol. AP Seminar and Research Certificate Aden Ali, Diana Cresciullo, Finn Drake, Lukas Fine, Margaret Gilbride, Mustafa Gulsen, Owen Jessop, Reese King, Aislinn Marasigan, Anthony Messina, Michael Noone, Maxwell Orr, MikaiLing Pantophlet, Kyle Salerno, Lana Salvaggio, Meaghan Tufano and Eva Wax Date Added: 9/12/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178630 Thu, 12 Sep 2024 04:00:00 GMT false178630 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates Cross-Country runners Fina DiBiaso and Lily Strebel for being named to Newsday’s Top 25 Long Island Cross Country runners list. DiBiaso, a freshman, was named to the list for finishing with a time of 20:03.6 at the public school state championship meet and finishing with a time of 20:20.3 at the Federation meet as an eighth grader. Strebel, a senior, was recognized for finishing seventh with a time of 19:18.4 in Class B finals in last season. At the Federation championships, she ran a 19:18.1 to place 17th. Date Added: 9/11/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178621 Wed, 11 Sep 2024 04:00:00 GMT false178621 The district congratulates senior Matilda Buchen and freshman Ava Borruso, who were named to Newsday’s Top 30 Long Island Tennis Players list. Newsday recognized Buchen as “half of the doubles team that won the state and county championships and was tabbed one of Newsday’s Suffolk Players of the Year. In a quest to defend those titles, she is likely to pair with the offensive-minded Barruso. Both are strong singles players who make the Hurricanes a contender for the team title.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178555 Thu, 05 Sep 2024 04:00:00 GMT false178555 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Brody Schaffer, who was named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Football Players list. Schaffer earned the recognition for being one of the top kickers on Long Island. He was also named to Newsday’s All-Island Second Team two seasons ago. Date Added: 9/4/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178524 Wed, 04 Sep 2024 04:00:00 GMT false178524 Westhampton Beach School District students were full of excitement as they arrived for the first day of the 2024-2025 school year on Sept. 3. “We are happy to welcome our students back to school and are looking forward to a year steeped in educational experiences,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. Elementary students were greeted by their teachers and principals and escorted to their classrooms, where they began organizing their supplies and making new friends. Middle and high school students kicked off the academic year by settling into their new routines and meeting their teachers. Date Added: 9/3/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178503 Tue, 03 Sep 2024 05:00:00 GMT false178503 Date Added: 9/3/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178401 Tue, 03 Sep 2024 04:00:00 GMT false178401 Date Added: 8/28/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178452 Wed, 28 Aug 2024 04:00:00 GMT false178452 Westhampton Beach students participating in the district’s summer recreation and academy program were afforded the opportunity to learn new skills from community volunteers. During the four-week program, held at Westhampton Beach High School, students honed their baseball skills with the help of Bill Dawson of East End Little League. Dawson ran clinics with the younger students and gave pointers to older students as they played Wiffle ball and practiced running bases. Program participants were also introduced to tennis by Kerriann Jannotte of Advantage All/Net Generation Tennis, who coached students on form and technique. Students also worked on their swimming skills through the Swordfish Swim Academy, receiving instruction each morning. Date Added: 8/13/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178345 Tue, 13 Aug 2024 04:00:00 GMT false178345 Seven rising seniors at Westhampton Beach High School are spending their summer immersed in science through Brookhaven National Laboratory’s SPARK program. Two of the students participating this year returned to the program to continue work on their AP Research projects. Abigail Curran is studying microplastic association with antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and Graelyn LoRusso is exploring sunscreen accumulation in larval clams. Both are using the lab’s infrared beamline (FIS) technology for their research. So far, new SPARK participants Halle Gellerew, Fahtima Iqbal, James Monseratte, Jordan Razzano and Zoey Rudolph learned about infrared spectroscopy, designed and conducted a microplastic analysis experiment, and determined the chemical composition of the plastic using infrared microscopy. Date Added: 7/25/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178214 Thu, 25 Jul 2024 04:00:00 GMT false178214 Westhampton Beach students are spending their summer mornings engaging in learning activities as part of the district’s summer recreation and academy program, which runs through the month of July. During the four-week program, held at Westhampton Beach High School, students in grades K-8 participate in a wide variety of fun activities, including crafts, computers, science and sports. The summer program also provides an opportunity for students to hone their English language arts and math skills and for incoming kindergartners to get acquainted with a school setting. High school students volunteer to assist with the program. Date Added: 7/15/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178134 Mon, 15 Jul 2024 04:00:00 GMT false178134 Date Added: 7/1/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178043 Mon, 01 Jul 2024 04:00:00 GMT false178043 The Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2024 celebrated an academic milestone as they received their diplomas on June 26 at the school’s 116th commencement exercises. During the evening ceremony, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst and high school Principal Christopher Herr congratulated the students on their academic, athletic and extracurricular accomplishments and their community service contributions. Among those who took the podium were valedictorian Meghan Kelly and salutatorian Jessica Curran. Charlie Bookamer read a senior poem, and senior class historian Ryan Fives rounded out the celebration by speaking of class memories and achievements. In closing, the symphonic choir entertained with a performance of “Time of Your Life” by Green Day. After accepting their diplomas and tossing their caps, the graduates joined a final procession off the football field toward their next chapter of success. Click here to view the photo slideshow. Date Added: 6/28/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=178023 Mon, 01 Jul 2024 04:00:00 GMT false178023 Click here to view the Livestream! Date Added: 6/26/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177976 Wed, 26 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177976 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students recently celebrated Police Day, which kicked off with a helicopter landing in the school’s field. The excited students then heard from local law enforcement officers who spoke about different jobs and technologies in the field, including the SWAT team, K-9 unit, helicopter unit and police drones. Date Added: 6/25/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177820 Tue, 25 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177820 High-achieving Westhampton Beach Middle School students in grades 6-8 were selected for an online math competition through the Math League. The students had 30 minutes to complete 35 challenging questions that increased in difficulty. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following high scorers: Leo Bonawandt, Andrew Camacho, Serafina DiBiaso, Aaliyah Figueroa, Keith Figueroa, Sophia Harrington-Matros, Cameron Hipp, Gage Matlock, Isabelle McCarthy, Chris Meyers, Christian Naclerio, Harper Rilling and Filip Sanczenko. Date Added: 6/24/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177821 Mon, 24 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177821 Westhampton Beach High School valedictorian Meghan Kelly was among those honored at the Suffolk County School Superintendents Association’s 30th annual Valedictorians Luncheon at Villa Lombardi’s in Holbrook. The tradition, established by the SCSSA, honored the enviable accomplishments of the county’s highest-achieving graduates from the Class of 2024 and was attended by school district superintendents, high school principals, valedictorians and their parents. SCSSA President Dr. Timothy Hearney noted that leadership begins with one’s mindset. He advised the graduates to reflect on what matters and to find purpose and meaning in what they choose to do in life. He added, “Leadership is about finding joy,” and encouraged the students to “work hard to find joy in what you do.” Guest speaker Matthew Cohen, president and chief executive officer of the Long Island Association, defined the group of valedictorians as “people who are going to think out of the box to find solutions.” His heartfelt speech included the advice to “take advantage of all the opportunities offered to you” and to “stick with things, no matter how hard.” The valedictorians were then called to the stage, accompanied by their school district superintendent and high school principal, to receive a certificate of recognition, the book “Oh, the Places You’ll Go” by Dr. Seuss and a journal from SCOPE. Date Added: 6/21/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177809 Fri, 21 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177809 Proudly wearing their green graduation gowns, members of the Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2024 marched through the halls of their former elementary school on June 17. They reminisced about their early school days and provided inspiration to current students. As they took the traditional senior walk, the elementary students cheered, clapped and held up signs of congratulations. Date Added: 6/20/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177788 Thu, 20 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177788 Westhampton Beach High School students Sullivan Norton, Liam Parsons and Julia Stabile have earned scholarships for committing to enlist in ROTC programs in college. Norton signed up for the Navy ROTC at the University of Colorado, Parsons will be a member of the Army ROTC at St. Lawrence University and Stabile joined the Marines ROTC at Penn State University. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its well wishes and congratulations to the seniors. Date Added: 6/19/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177660 Wed, 19 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177660 The designs and slogans of five Westhampton Beach High School marketing students in Amy Demchak’s class are now featured on cups at Hampton Coffee Company in Westhampton Beach. The designs of Luke Albert, Donye' Hope, Sienna Macdonald and Jayden Valenti were selected following a hands-on project where they put their marketing and branding skills to the test. The students were challenged by Hampton Coffee to create a coffee cup label that promotes their brand. They were presented with the challenge following a presentation by Hampton Coffee Marketing Manager Edythe Collins, who spoke to the students about the importance of branding, as well as her position with the company. Date Added: 6/18/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177659 Tue, 18 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177659 Westhampton Beach High School student Anderson Hipp earned the Lead Role in a Comedy Teeny Award at the annual Teeny Awards ceremony at William Floyd High School on June 9. During the event, Westhampton Beach thespians performed Gaston from their production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. The Teeny Awards program recognizes student talent across 20 East End school districts. In addition to extending its congratulations to Anderson Hipp on his award, the district congratulates the following students who were nominated for Teeny Awards: Lead Role in a Comedy Anderson Hipp in the role of Black Stache in “Peter and the Starcatcher” Meghan Pomroy in the role of Molly Aster in “Peter and the Starcatcher” Supporting Role in a Play, Comedy Kate Pomroy in the role of Smee/Lieutenant Greggors in “Peter and the Starcatcher” Lead Role in a Musical, Drama Sarah DeVerna in the role of Belle in “Beauty and the Beast” Supporting Role in a Musical, Drama Anderson Hipp in the role of Gaston in “Beauty and the Beast” Kate Pomroy in the role of Cogsworth in “Beauty and the Beast” Meghan Pomroy in the role of Lefou in “Beauty and the Beast” Outstanding Choreography Morgan DeVerna for “Mob Song” from “Beauty and the Beast” Kaitlynn Mazurkiewicz for “Gaston” & “Gaston Reprise” from “Beauty and the Beast” Brady Schultz for “Be Our Guest from “Beauty and the Beast” Outstanding Performer in a Play or Musical Katie DeVerna in the role of Silly Girl in “Beauty and the Beast” Kaitlynn Mazurkiewicz in the role of Silly Girl in “Beauty and the Beast” Outstanding Poster Design Kate Pomroy for “Beauty and the Beast” and “Peter and the Starcatcher” Judges’ Choice Winner “Gaston” Musical Routine in “Beauty and the Beast” Costume Assistants, Costume Designers, Prop Masters & Managers Anderson Hipp, “Peter and the Starcatcher” & “Beauty and the Beast” Angelina Rinaldi, “Beauty and the Beast” Dance Captains Morgan DeVerna, “Beauty and the Beast” Madison Klammer, “Beauty and the Beast” Kaitlynn Mazurkiewicz, “Beauty and the Beast” Kate Pomroy, “Beauty and the Beast” Meghan Pomroy, “Beauty and the Beast” Lighting Designers, Assistants & Crew Jack Cohen, “Peter and the Starcatcher” EmmaRose Holfelder, “Peter and the Starcatcher” & “Beauty and the Beast” Graelyn LoRusso, “Peter and the Starcatcher” & “Beauty and the Beast” Allie Morales, “Beauty and the Beast” Pit Orchestra Chelsea Aguirre, Bass Clarinet in “Beauty and the Beast” Luke Albert, Percussion in “Beauty and the Beast” Cameron Hipp, Clarinet in “Beauty and the Beast” Angelina LeMaire, Clarinet in “Beauty and the Beast” Mylie McCabe, Bass Clarinet in “Beauty and the Beast” Yulianna Mendez-Yaxon, Piccola & Flute in “Beauty and the Beast” William Sultan, Flute in “Beauty and the Beast” Set Design and Construction Jack Cohen, “Beauty and the Beast” Morgan DeVerna, “Beauty and the Beast” Ginger Hendrickson, “Beauty and the Beast” Abby Ketner, “Beauty and the Beast” Madison Klammer, “Beauty and the Beast” Ava Kuklis, “Beauty and the Beast” Kaitlynn Mazurkiewicz, “Beauty and the Beast” Leandra Melo, “Beauty and the Beast” Angie Pesantez, “Beauty and the Beast” Kate Pomroy, “Beauty and the Beast” Angelina Rinaldi, “Beauty and the Beast” Grace Smith, “Beauty and the Beast” Sarah Tedesco, “Beauty and the Beast” Chris Volkman, “Beauty and the Beast” Sound Designers, Assistants & Crew Amiee Heino, “Peter and the Starcatcher” & “Beauty and the Beast” Sarah Tedesco, “Peter and the Starcatcher” & “Beauty and the Beast” Special Effects & Graphic design Max Mistina, “Peter and the Starcatcher” & “Beauty and the Beast” Stage Crew Chelsea Aguirre, “Peter and the Starcatcher” Alex Baryk, “Beauty and the Beast” Jack Cohen, “Beauty and the Beast” Emily Flynn, “Beauty and the Beast” Bitsy Gaynor, “Peter and the Starcatcher” & “Beauty and the Beast” Matthew Hernandez, “Peter and the Starcatcher” & “Beauty and the Beast” Abby Ketner, “Beauty and the Beast” Kate Lynch, “Peter and the Starcatcher” & “Beauty and the Beast” Leandra Melo, “Beauty and the Beast” Angie Pesantez Llanos, “Peter and the Starcatcher” Angelina Rinaldi, “Peter and the Starcatcher” Grace Smith, “Beauty and the Beast” Reed Terry, “Peter and the Starcatcher” Stage Managers & Assistant Stage Managers Ginger Hendrickson, “Peter and the Starcatcher” & “Beauty and the Beast” Kaitlynn Mazurkiewicz, “Peter and the Starcatcher” Megan Peters, “Beauty and the Beast” Chris Volkman, “Peter and the Starcatcher” & “Beauty and the Beast” Student Choreographers Morgan DeVerna, “Beauty and the Beast” Kaitlynn Mazurkiewicz, “Beauty and the Beast” Brady Schultz, “Beauty and the Beast” Sarah Tedesco, “Beauty and the Beast” Student Poster & Playbill Design Kate Pomroy, “Peter and the Starcatcher” & “Beauty and the Beast” Date Added: 6/17/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177658 Mon, 17 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177658 Westhampton Beach High School musicians earned an impressive rating of excellent at the Music in the Parks festival in Hershey, Pennsylvania, on June 1. To earn the rating, the chamber singers, led by director Hannah Pawluk, and the pep band, directed by Josh Seifert, each performed selections for judges. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the students and music teachers on an amazing job. Date Added: 6/14/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177596 Fri, 14 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177596 Westhampton Beach long-distance runner Trevor Hayes completed his high school running career by placing third place in the 2,300-meter steeplechase championship for Division 1. He garnered sixth place overall in the state with this placement, earning him All-State and All-Federation titles. This is not Hayes’ first impressive run. He previously took first place in the boys 2,000-meter steeplechase competition at the New York Relays meet at Icahn Stadium with a time of 6:02.3 — a new Westhampton Beach High School record — and earned an All-American title following his performance at the Nike nationals. Hayes started running in eighth grade after earning an All-County award in tennis as a seventh grader. Since committing to running, Hayes has received multiple All-County, All-League and All-State recognitions in all three seasons of competitive running – cross-country and indoor and outdoor track. The senior will be moving on to the United States Naval Academy after graduation. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates Hayes on an impressive high school running career. Date Added: 6/13/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177567 Thu, 13 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177567 Two students from Westhampton Beach High School were honored with Dellecave Awards at the 24th annual Butch Dellecave Awards held at Villa Lombardi’s in Holbrook on June 9. Seniors Sarah Gormley and Trevor Hayes were nominated for being at the top in athletics, academics and their commitment to local community service. Named in memory of Gaetano “Butch” Dellecave, a local educator, official and coach, the award is the product of a partnership between local school districts in Suffolk County and the award organizers: the Economic Opportunity Council of Suffolk Inc., the Butch Dellecave Foundation and Newsday. Date Added: 6/12/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177565 Wed, 12 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177565 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students were recently treated to a lesson in French by Westhampton Beach High School junior French-language students. As part of the activity, the juniors translated their favorite childhood books and prepared a lesson that included a game that reviewed important vocabulary from the selected book. Books read in French included “Clifford the Big Red Dog,” “Don’t Let the Pigeons Drive the Bus,” “Stone Soup” and “The Very Hungry Caterpillar.” Date Added: 6/11/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177564 Tue, 11 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177564 As a symbol of their commitment to the pursuit of higher education, the Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2024 wore the apparel of their college of choice on June 3. The class will be heading to a number of premier schools this fall, including Cornell University, Boston University, Brown University, Stony Brook University and Princeton University. “We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2024,” said Principal Dr. Christopher Herr. “They have made their mark on Westhampton Beach High School, and we wish them the very best in the future.” Date Added: 6/4/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177342 Tue, 04 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177342 Westhampton Beach Elementary School second grade students celebrated Baby Chick Day with the hatching of classroom chicks on May 23. Students were excited to find that their baby chicks had finally hatched after incubating for about 21 days. Prior to their hatching, students learned about the life cycle of chickens. Their lesson will culminate with a trip to the Suffolk County Farm in Yaphank, where they will bring the baby chicks to live. They will also take part in educational activities and a hayride. Date Added: 5/24/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177126 Fri, 31 May 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177126 Westhampton Beach High School held its first annual Wellness Day for students on May 23. The successful event, spearheaded by social worker Kaity Gebhardtand psychologist Elizabeth Martrano, featured a variety of wellness-related activities and informational booths in the school’s gym. Generously contributing to the event were local businesses and organizations including 7 Fitness, Chick-Fil-A, Coastal MD, Hamptons Jiu Jitsu, HUGS, Jala Hot Yoga, Local Provisions, Kate Swezey, LKMSW & Oric, Northwell Health, Ocean Spa Beauty and Wellness, Pawcasso Art Studio, Southampton Town Youth Bureau and the Westhampton Beach Public Library. Date Added: 5/30/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177124 Thu, 30 May 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177124 Westhampton Beach High School’s broadcasting program, “The Hurricane Watch,” took home four awards from this year’s BASH Awards, held at Hofstra University. The Westhampton students earned third place in the Newsday multimedia category, third place for Best Opening segment, and honorable mention in both Best Broadcast and Best Sports Package. Sponsored by ABC-7 and Newsday, the BASH Awards celebrate the work of high school broadcast programs. This year was the largest and most competitive BASH to date, with over 1,000 students in attendance and 252 submissions. Prior to the awards ceremony, Westhampton Beach’s broadcast journalism classes, taught by Dariah Luciano and Kirsten Mett., took a tour of the Lawrence Herbert School of Communication and learned from professionals in breakout sessions about topics such as “Broadcasting Live High School Sports” and “What It's Like Working in Media: Early Career Tips.” The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to “The Hurricane Watch” crew on a job well done. Date Added: 5/29/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177121 Wed, 29 May 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177121 Twelve Hurricane seniors committed to play at the collegiate level during a spring college signing ceremony on May 22. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following student-athletes: Katie Baker, Marywood University, Soccer Max Buchen, Ohio State University, Swimming Sarah Gormley, St Michael’s College, Soccer Montgomery Hahn, Newberry College, Soccer Trevor Hayes, Naval Academy, Cross-Country/Track and Field Michael LoRusso, St. John Fisher University, Football Madison Maire, Salve Regina University, Lacrosse Riley Miller, Coast Guard Academy, Football Oona Murphy, Sacred Heart University, Cross-Country/Track and Field Madison Phillips, Northeastern University, Track and Field Joely Schaumloffel, Coast Guard Academy, Lacrosse Seth Terry, Dominican University, Volleyball Date Added: 5/28/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177123 Tue, 28 May 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177123 High school seniors from the Hampton Bays, Southampton and Westhampton Beach school districts who have committed to entering the military upon graduation were honored at a fifth annual ceremony at Southampton High School on May 23. During the formal event, the seniors — who represent the 1% of graduates who commit to the military each year — were presented with proclamations and accolades. Their families were given blue star flags at the ceremony, which included musical military tributes and several speakers who offered congratulations and well wishes. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulate the following seniors who will be entering military service: Cole Brewer, United States Coast Guard Trevor Hayes, United States Naval Academy Abraham Jara, United States Marine Corps Riley Miller, United States Coast Guard Academy Date Added: 5/28/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177153 Tue, 28 May 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177153 Dressed in fancy spring outfits, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students were all smiles as they participated in their school’s annual Spring Formal Luncheon on May 21. As part of the event, the PTA decorated the cafeteria with balloons and colored tablecloths and helped to serve students a special lunch. Date Added: 5/24/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177025 Fri, 24 May 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177025 Westhampton Beach Elementary School student-artists recently presented their portfolios for adjudication through the New York State Art Teachers Association Portfolio Project. Prior to the adjudication, the fourth and fifth grade students attended two extra art periods and developed portfolios that included a written research paper and an artist statement, in addition to a self-portrait and three choice-based works of art. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following students on a job well done: Grade 4 Gianna Aiello Evelyn Bennett Frankie DiBiaso Zofia Geiger Leah Hartman Shelby Lynch Rossy Mendoza Shayla Rodriguez Cruz Calla Tymann Grade 5 Caliyah Brown Brianna Chic Mendez Kelly Cochoy Reagan Edwards Avery Peters Caroline Remetta Date Added: 5/23/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177024 Thu, 23 May 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177024 Westhampton Beach Elementary School is celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month during the month of May with a variety of activities. Students are sharing biographies of famous Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders over the school’s public address system and on display boards in the school’s hallways. They have also been reading books and watching videos on the importance of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and different cultures and traditions. Date Added: 5/22/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=177023 Wed, 22 May 2024 04:00:00 GMT false177023 Budget Approved / Presupuesto Aprobado Yes (Si) 549 No (No) 129 Proposition 2 Approved / La Propuesta No. 2 Aprobado Yes (Si) 532 No (No) 146 Proposition 3 Approved / La Propuesta No. 3 Aprobado Yes (Si) 519 No (No) 163 Board Election / Elección Delfiducario De La Junta De Educación Jennifer Neumaier – 303 * Ryan Fay – 363 * Daniel Bennett– 303 * Bryan Beasley - 279 Robert Macedonio - 174 Joyce Donneson- 286 *Elected/Fideicomisarios Electos Date Added: 5/21/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=176987 Tue, 21 May 2024 04:00:00 GMT false176987 Westhampton Beach High School students Brett Geller, hornist, and Ava Kuklis, clarinetist, recently attended the second annual Hofstra Honor Band Day at Hofstra University. They were among 84 students representing 36 school districts on Long Island who had the opportunity to rehearse and perform with the Hofstra Symphonic Band and its director, David Soto. Additionally, they attended instrument-specific master classes and participated in a Q&A session with the Hofstra band members and Hofstra admissions. The day concluded with a performance for family and friends. Date Added: 5/15/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=176816 Wed, 15 May 2024 04:00:00 GMT false176816 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates junior Owen Jessop and sophomore Zach Berger, who were named to Newsday’s Top 20 Long Island Boys Golfers list. Owen was recognized for winning the individual county title last October when he parred the No. 1 playoff hole for a 147 at Spring Lake Golf Course. Zach earned honors for shooting rounds of 75 and 74 in the county championship to finish fourth at 149 last fall. He tied for 24th at the state championship last June with a 14-over-par 158. Date Added: 5/8/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=176638 Wed, 08 May 2024 04:00:00 GMT false176638 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students recently enjoyed a visit from award-winning author Amy McCoy. McCoy, who penned the “Little Big Sister” book series, spent time reading to the students and discussing autism awareness. Date Added: 5/3/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=176488 Fri, 03 May 2024 04:00:00 GMT false176488 Westhampton Beach High School senior Meghan Kelly has been named as one of 625 semifinalists to advance to the final round of the prestigious U.S. Presidential Scholars competition. She earned her spot for her impressive academic achievements and leadership abilities. Kelly is her school’s Class of 2024 valedictorian, a member of the National, Math and Science honor societies, a Commended Student in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program and an AP Scholar with Distinction. She also received a perfect score on her AP Research exam and is a semifinalist in the Junior Sciences and Humanities Symposium. When not studying, Kelly is an active member of her school’s varsity track team, pep band, Spanish Club and Interact Club. She is also a volunteer member of the Westhampton Junior Ambulance. She plans to study biochemistry at Duke University in the fall. Date Added: 5/2/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=176489 Thu, 02 May 2024 04:00:00 GMT false176489 Westhampton Beach High School’s star runner Trevor Hayes took first place in the boys 2,000-meter steeplechase competition at the New York Relays meet at Icahn Stadium with a time 6:02.3 — a new Westhampton Beach High School record. This is not Hayes’ first impressive run. He previously earned an All-American title following his performance at the Nike nationals. To acquire the title, Hayes took fifth place out of a field of 48 runners in the 2,000-meter steeplechase. Hayes started running in eighth grade after earning an All-County award in tennis as a seventh grader. Since committing to running, Hayes has received multiple All-County, All-League and All-State recognitions in all three seasons of competitive running – cross-country and indoor and outdoor track. He also qualified for the Nike National Outdoor Championships in 2021, 2022 and 2023 in both the steeplechase and one-mile run. As for academics, Hayes has earned a prestigious 2023 Heisman High School Scholarship award as part of the annual Heisman High School Scholarship competition. He is an honors student and a member of his school’s National Honor Society, for which he serves in the role of parliamentarian. He is also an Eagle Scout. Hayes intends to study mechanical engineering in college. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Trevor Hayes on this impressive accomplishment. Date Added: 4/24/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=176376 Wed, 24 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT false176376 Westhampton Beach High School students recently visited the district’s elementary school to spend time with kindergarten, first and second grade students. During the sessions, the high school students read books related to diversity and inclusivity and involved the students in hands-on activities related to the theme. Date Added: 4/22/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=176298 Mon, 22 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT false176298 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates junior Lily Strebel on being named to Newsday’s top 50 Long Island girls track and field athletes. Lily was recognized for running 4:37.29 and placing ninth in the 1,500-meter race at last year’s outdoor state championship. She ran 4:43.93 in the same event at the Suffolk state qualifier. Date Added: 4/19/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=176297 Fri, 19 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT false176297 The Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise team, Soteria, took home top awards at the VE National Business Plan Competition, held April 11-12. Team Soteria took first place in New York state before advancing and earning fifth place in the country. They competed against 200 teams at the state level and vied against 700 teams for their fifth-place finish at nationals. Soteria is set up as a cybersecurity training business. The team’s members created their business concept and formulated plans to market it. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Soteria on their exceptional performance. Date Added: 4/18/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=176235 Thu, 18 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT false176235 Westhampton Beach High School students who volunteer their time with the Westhampton War Memorial Junior Ambulance program were celebrated for their hard work and dedication on April 15. During the event, Southampton Town Supervisor Maria Moore praised the students and presented the organization with a proclamation. She also listened to the students speak about their experiences while volunteering. In addition, accolades were given to the students by Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst and Principal Dr. Christopher Herr, as well as by members of the ambulance program. Date Added: 4/17/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=176234 Wed, 17 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT false176234 Jennifer Wagner, a Westhampton Beach Elementary School fourth grade ENL integrated classroom teacher, will be studying in Prague this summer after winning a grant from the Fund for Teachers organization. Wagner is one of only 365 teachers from around the world to be awarded the grant out of a pool of 10,000 applicants. “I am excited to study in Prague and to use my experience and knowledge in my future classrooms,” said Wagner, who has been a teacher in Westhampton Beach for the past eight years. Wagner also intends to share what she learns with her colleagues. In Prague, Wagner will participate in a creativity workshop where she will explore strategies for utilizing activities such as free-form drawing, photography, storytelling and mindfulness to bridge the academic performance and background knowledge gaps between English language learners from Central America and native English speakers. Wagner was awarded the $5,000 for her “unwavering commitment to crafting a transformative learning experience, one that fuels your curiosity and positively impacts your students,” according to the Fund for Teachers organization. Date Added: 4/15/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=176145 Mon, 15 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT false176145 Westhampton Beach Middle School National Junior Honor Society students are working to raise money for Paws of War, which provides service dogs to veterans free of charge. For the fundraiser, the students are selling limited edition Westhampton Beach Middle School shirts for $10 each. Prior to starting the fundraiser, the students met with representatives of Paws of War and learned more about the organization. Date Added: 4/12/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=176089 Fri, 12 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT false176089 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates Maya Farnan and Reese King, who were named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Girls Lacrosse Players list. Farnan was recognized for making 145 saves last season and King earned accolades for making 38 goals, 10 assists and 64 draw controls last season. Date Added: 4/8/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175985 Thu, 11 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT false175985 Westhampton Beach Middle School mock trial class members won three out of four cases during the Eastern Suffolk BOCES Annual Mock Trial tournament at Suffolk County Community College. “This was super impressive for Westhampton's first time competing,” said teacher Kelly Massaro. “Far more important than the win was seeing my students suited and confident, thinking critically, and using their voices to enforce the law.” During the competition, 31 mock trial students competed against four other middle schools in a mock criminal case. The cases were presided over by Supreme Court judges and district attorneys. Prior to the competition, Westhampton Beach students prepared two defense and two prosecution teams that included lawyers and witnesses. They also conducted legal research and mastered all aspects of a trial, including openings, closings, objections, submitting evidence, creating a theory for the case, direct examination, cross examination and redirect. The students were also fortunate enough to have private practice lawyer Thomas Gibbons assist in preparing them. “He is an expert not only in the law, but also in guiding the students through all the intricacies of criminal trials in a way that helped them grow as thinkers and potential lawyers,” said Massaro. “We are so grateful for his generous donation of time and teaching.” Date Added: 4/10/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175887 Wed, 10 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT false175887 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates sophomore Addison Celi, who was named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island softball players list. She was named for tallying over 200 strikeouts for the second consecutive season, posting a 1.63 ERA and throwing two no-hitters and four one-hitters. Date Added: 4/9/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175881 Tue, 09 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT false175881 Westhampton Beach Middle School is proud to announce that 71 students have been named National Junior Honor Society members. The students were officially inducted during a candle-lighting ceremony. To be eligible for membership, the students were required to maintain an unweighted GPA of 92 or better, meet the standards of leadership, service, citizenship and character, and complete community service. Westhampton Beach Middle School congratulates the following inductees: Caleb Ali, Leonidas Anastasopoulos, Adriana Armijos, Taylor Bigora, Chloe Blowes, Jason Bookamer, Ava Borruso, Abigail Camacho, Colbie Canty, Briana Carmona, Jude Dawson, Charlotte Dennehy, Serafina DiBiaso, Teagan Dorn, Louis Farano, Casey Farrell, Clare Farrell, Jemma Farruggia, Jaynelle Breanne Fernandez, Heather Gdula, Jack Gibbons, Darryn Green, Sophia Guzman, Penelope Hahn, Emilia Harrington-Matros, Grace Hart, Jake Hart, Harry Hebberd, Travis Hefter, Hailey Heptig, Winter Hinck, Cameron Hipp, Kai Katevatis, Lily Krentzman, Niko Leontaritis, Michael Litjens, Jordan Lukert, Jonathan Marden, Mia Mastropierro, Isabelle McCarthy, Morgan McCarty, Noah Murphy, Christian Naclerio, Julianna Najdzion, Maeve O'Connor, Channing O'Neil, Nicholas Paga, Lucas Palmer, Benjamin Presutti, Leah Ravin, Angela Rea, Sebastian Rivera, Maria Rodriguez, Jacob Ryvicker, Katelyn Salerno, Levi Salvi, Filip Sanczenko, Samuel Sarocky, Ari Schneider, Daniel Schumacher, Madeleine Sinclair, Samuel Snyder Jr., Edgar Socop Chan, Zion Stokes, William Sultan, Rowan Toolan, Beatrice Tunney, Mia Velez, Lily Warchol, Sophia Zaleski and Elly Ziccardi. Date Added: 4/8/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175872 Mon, 08 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT false175872 Westhampton Beach High School AP French students in Nicolette Galante’s class recently had the opportunity to virtually meet with Dr. Souad Fennouh-Chalhoub, a member of the United Nations’ Outreach Division in the Department of Global Communications. Prior to the meeting, the students learned about the qualifications needed to work at the U.N. and prepared questions regarding how the U.N. addresses global issues such as hunger, health, access to safe drinking water, issues of peace and security, decolonization, gender equality and safety of children. During the briefing, the students communicated entirely in French with Dr. Fennouh-Chalhoub, who answered as many questions as time allowed. Date Added: 4/5/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175869 Fri, 05 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT false175869 This summer, Westhampton Beach High School junior Nicholas Borruso will be attending the prestigious Stony Brook Simons Summer Research Program. He is the first Westhampton Beach High School student to earn entry into the highly competitive program; only 4% of all applicants are accepted. As part of the six-week program, Borruso will be working on zebrafish research with Professor Dr. Howard Sirotkin in the department of neurobiology and behavior. “This is very validating for me,” said Borruso, whose science research project relates to the developmental and behavioral effects of copper sulfate on zebrafish. “My interests align perfectly with Dr. Sirotki’s fisheries research.” Borruso first became interested in zebrafish after taking an online summer course through Brown University. He previously took an online course about bioscience through Stamford University. “Nick has shown a strong interest in zebrafish neuroscience since I've met him, and I am very excited that he has earned the opportunity to work with researchers at Stony Brook University this summer, said Dr. Dianna Gobler, science research teacher. To earn his spot in the summer program, Borruso was required to participate in a highly selective application process that included his impressive academic record and recommendations from his teachers. He attributed his success to those teachers, noting, “The guidance of my science and math teachers has been exceptional.” Apart from his research, Borruso serves as vice president of his school’s robotics team and is a member of Mathletes and Key Club. Date Added: 4/4/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175780 Thu, 04 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT false175780 Due to her hard work and impressive science skills, Westhampton Beach High School senior Jessica Curran has advanced to the prestigious Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair after taking first place in the plant sciences category of the New York State Science and Engineering Fair (NYSSEF). She is one of only 14 students from across the state to earn a spot through NYSSEF and the second Westhampton Beach High School student to accomplish the feat. She will compete in Los Angeles in May. Making it to ISEF is like the Olympics of high school science research,” said Dr. Dianna Gobler, science research teacher. “Jessica has worked very hard every single day to get to this point and I am incredibly proud of her. Curran earned her spot after a 15-minute presentation on her science research project that explores seaweed as fertilizer. It is the same project that earned her a perfect score on her AP Research exam. “It is very validating,” said Curran of her first-place recognition. “It shows that all my hard work paid off.” In addition to Curran earning first place, senior Meghan Kelly took third place in the biomedical sciences category for her research project that investigates bacteria and antibiotics. Her research project also earned her a perfect score on her AP Research exam. Curran and Kelly were two of 700 students who competed in the New York State Science and Engineering Fair. Only 20% of all student entries are invited to compete. “It was exciting to go and see all of the projects and to have placed,” said Kelly. Curran and Kelly are their school’s salutatorian and valedictorian, respectively. Curran is also a Regeneron Scholar, AP Scholar with Distinction, Commended Student in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program and vice president of her school’s National Honor Society. In addition, she serves as vice president of her school’s Environmental Cure Club, vice president of the robotics team and captain of Quiz Bowl. Outside of school, she volunteers with the Westhampton Junior Ambulance and is a Girl Scout who earned her Gold Award, the highest award in Girl Scouting. She will be attending Princeton University to study environmental engineering. Kelly is a member of her school’s National, Math and Science honor societies, was named a Commended Student in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program and is an AP Scholar with Distinction. She is also a semifinalist in the Junior Sciences and Humanities Symposium. When not studying, Kelly is an active member of her school’s varsity track team, pep band, Spanish Club and Interact Club. She is also a volunteer member of the Westhampton Junior Ambulance. She plans to study biochemistry at Duke University in the fall. Date Added: 4/3/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175779 Wed, 03 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT false175779 To give back to the community, Westhampton Beach High School student Ava Failla recently collected and donated over 1,300 books to Book Fairies of Long Island. The sophomore decided to take action after seeing how the Book Fairies program worked in a school district where her mother works. “Growing up, I had a lot of nice books and I wanted to help make a difference and provide books to underprivileged children,” said Failla. To collect the books, Failla worked with the principals at Westhampton Beach and Quogue elementary schools to put out donation boxes. She hopes to continue the momentum and collect books again next year. When not working on community service projects, Failla can be found on the soccer and lacrosse fields. She also volunteers at the Southampton Animal Shelter and is a member of the Golden Canes Club, where she works to raise awareness for childhood cancer. Date Added: 4/2/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175774 Tue, 02 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT false175774 Students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School displayed their knowledge of science at the school’s 25th annual Math, Science and Technology Fair. The event showcased a variety of science projects by students in grades 1-5, with topics ranging from dog anatomy and beach erosion to screen time and cleaner water. This year’s fair winners were Sophie Dwyer and Elizabeth Williams, kindergarten; Kenley Montpetit, first grade; Ben Williams, second grade; Max Searles, third grade; Cora Montpetit, fourth grade; and Xavier Kalisak, fifth grade. The winning students are now eligible to compete in Brookhaven National Laboratory’s annual Elementary Science Fair Competition. Date Added: 3/27/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175725 Wed, 27 Mar 2024 04:00:00 GMT false175725 In recognizing that senior citizens are a targeted population for fraud and cybercrimes, Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise students decided to act. The students collaborated to create an informative presentation about cybersecurity and online fraud and volunteered to share it with residents of the Villa at Westhampton to help protect them against identity theft, hacking and more. Date Added: 3/25/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175643 Mon, 25 Mar 2024 04:00:00 GMT false175643 Westhampton Beach High School thespians, under the direction of Kimet Speed, will present a performance of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” on Friday, March 22, and Saturday, March 23, at 7:00 p.m. and on Sunday, March 24, at 2 p.m., in the school’s auditorium, 49 Lilac Road, Westhampton Beach. Tickets are free. Date Added: 3/21/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175589 Thu, 21 Mar 2024 04:00:00 GMT false175589 Each year, the Westhampton Beach Middle School hosts an outstanding community read program where students, teachers, community members and families unite to read the same book and collectively experience how the power of storytelling brings people together. This year, the event expanded to include an impressive cultural fair. The cultural fair was spearheaded by community read advisers Kelly Massaro and Yvonne Perez, who wanted to showcase how unique and varied their students’ experiences, backgrounds and cultures are following the collective reading of “Libertad” by Alma Fullerton. The book illustrates the harrowing journey that two young boys take to find their father in America after losing their mother in Guatemala. It resonates with themes of love, perseverance and hope. As part of the cultural fair and community read night, families created tables to represent their country of origin, and parents and grandparents who had immigrated to America shared their immigration stories. Families cooked food, shared music, and displayed traditional clothing and artifacts from their countries. Attendees received a passport to have stamped as they visited each of the tables. Additionally, high school students performed a traditional Dance of the Deer from Guatemala with their family members during the evening. In the weeks leading up to the event, students assisted in the planning, created poster boards and videos, and built a giant Guatemalan kite that honored the traditional Guatemalan Kite Festival. They also created an authentic El Salvadorian dish with the assistance of the middle school’s chef and tried a variety of foods from around the world as part of the school’s lunch menu. Further assisting with the event was Nicole Spatz and Lauren O'Hearn, who were instrumental in bringing the English as a new language community together to get involved. “The evening was one of the most powerful that I have ever participated in in my 20 years of working at Westhampton Beach,” said Massaro. “I felt so honored to stand witness to the power of our students’ and families’ ‘Community Hurricane.’ What a generous and beautiful display of love, acceptance, understanding, diversity, family and friendship. We all left with our hearts and our stomachs full.” Date Added: 3/19/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175489 Tue, 19 Mar 2024 04:00:00 GMT false175489 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students recently participated in an annual sensory evening and day where they learned about disabilities through interactive stations. Students learned about sensory challenges such as noise and touch, attempted to wheel a wheelchair through an obstacle course, and learned about the many devices available to students who are unable to communicate through speech. Date Added: 3/14/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175383 Thu, 14 Mar 2024 04:00:00 GMT false175383 Westhampton Beach High School has announced Meghan Kelly and Jessica Curran as its Class of 2024 valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively. The two seniors earned the top spots in their class through their outstanding commitment to academics. Kelly has achieved numerous academic accomplishments during her tenure at Westhampton Beach High School. She is a member of her school’s National, Math and Science honor societies, was named a Commended Student in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program and is an AP Scholar with Distinction. She also received a perfect score on her AP Research exam and is a semifinalist in the Junior Sciences and Humanities Symposium. When not studying, Kelly is an active member of her school’s varsity track team, pep band, Spanish Club and Interact Club. She is also a volunteer member of the Westhampton Junior Ambulance. She plans to study biochemistry at Duke University in the fall. Curran has an equally impressive academic record. She has been named a prestigious Regeneron Scholar and earned a perfect score on her AP Research exam. She is also an AP Scholar with Distinction, a Commended Student in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program and vice president of her school’s National Honor Society. Additionally, Curran serves as vice president of her school’s Environmental Cure Club, vice president of the robotics team and captain of Quiz Bowl. Outside of school, she volunteers with the Westhampton Junior Ambulance and is a Girl Scout who earned her Gold Award, the highest award in Girl Scouting. Curran will be attending Princeton University to study environmental engineering. Date Added: 3/13/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175359 Wed, 13 Mar 2024 04:00:00 GMT false175359 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students are celebrating Women’s History Month with a variety of engaging learning activities. Each class is researching influential women and sharing what they learned through displays outside their classrooms. Students are also taking part in a schoolwide “Guess Who” game where they guess the name of an influential woman based on clues provided to them. Once they discover who their mystery woman is, they add her picture to a “Guess Who” board featured in the school’s main hallway. Date Added: 3/8/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175239 Mon, 11 Mar 2024 04:00:00 GMT false175239 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students recently learned more about the importance of caring for the environment and the Moriches Bay Project’s mission to re-establish populations of shellfish and eelgrass. During a special program on March 7, the students worked with Moriches Bay representatives, as well as their teachers and parents, to construct oyster cages that will be used to help re-establish the oyster population. Date Added: 3/8/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175238 Fri, 08 Mar 2024 05:00:00 GMT false175238 Westhampton Beach High School junior Lilah Caputo recently performed with the prestigious New York State Band Directors Association High School Honor Band in Syracuse. Caputo, a clarinetist, was selected based on her score at the spring 2023 NYSSMA Solo Evaluation Festival and teacher recommendation. As part of the experience, Caputo joined over 110 students from across the state to perform challenging music with a high degree of musicianship. They were led by Dr. Shayna Stahl, a Long Island native and current director of athletic bands at the University of Kentucky. Caputo said she left inspired and rejuvenated as a musician and made some new friends along the way. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates Caputo on a job well done. Date Added: 3/6/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175151 Wed, 06 Mar 2024 05:00:00 GMT false175151 Westhampton Beach High School runner Lily Strebel and swimmer Max Buchen both took home top awards at their respective state meets. At the New York State winter track meet, Strebel earned second place in the 1,500-meter race and a fourth-place federation title. At the New York State swimming championships, Buchen took first place in the 100-yard breaststroke and third in the 200-yard individual medley. The District extends its congratulations to the athletes on their impressive wins. Date Added: 3/5/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175118 Tue, 05 Mar 2024 05:00:00 GMT false175118 Westhampton Beach High School seniors Gianni Amodemo and Haley Waszkelewicz were honored by the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance as winners of the Suffolk Zone Student Leadership Award. The two were selected based on their excellence in physical education, leadership ability and service to the community. Date Added: 3/4/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=175097 Mon, 04 Mar 2024 05:00:00 GMT false175097 In honor of Black History Month, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students are learning about influential African Americans through a variety of activities sponsored by the school’s Equity Committee. Students created Instagram posts that featured influential African Americans. Their work, which included short messages about the person they chose and a corresponding picture, is displayed outside their classrooms. Additionally, members of the school’s student council created a tree display, titled Rooted and Grounded in Black History, on a bulletin board in the school’s main hallway that features information about influential African Americans. Date Added: 2/27/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=174931 Tue, 27 Feb 2024 05:00:00 GMT false174931 The Westhampton Beach School District is now registering children for the 2024-2025 school year. To be eligible, students must be 5 years old as of Dec. 1, 2024. In-person registration will be held at Westhampton Beach Elementary School on Wednesday, March 20, from 9-11 a.m., 1:30-2:30 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m.; and on Thursday, March 21, from 9-11 a.m. and 1:30-2:30 p.m. Registration packets and additional information are available online at https://whbschools.org/parents_students/student_registration. For questions, please call 631-288-3800, ext. 231. Date Added: 2/26/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=174912 Mon, 26 Feb 2024 05:00:00 GMT false174912 Westhampton Beach High School runners Lily Strebel and Trevor Hayes will head to the Section XI state meet on March 2 following stellar performances at the state qualifying meet. Strebel placed second in the 1,500-meter race with a time of 4:43.62 and Hayes earned second place in the 1,600-meter race with a time of 4:27.94. Earlier in the season, the two earned accolades from Newsday and were named top track and field runners. The district extends its congratulations to the student-athletes. Date Added: 2/22/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=174859 Thu, 22 Feb 2024 05:00:00 GMT false174859 Westhampton Beach High School students Rebecca Gutierrez-Haefeli and Ava Kuklis recently attended the inaugural Steinbeck House Writing Workshop in Sag Harbor and heard from Bret Anthony Johnston, bestselling novelist and director of the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas. The students were nominated by their English teachers to attend the workshop for demonstrating an interest in creative writing. They are both avid writers and members of their school’s Seascapes literary arts magazine. Date Added: 2/20/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=174829 Tue, 20 Feb 2024 05:00:00 GMT false174829 Twelve Westhampton Beach Middle School students were selected to showcase their artwork in the Parrish Art Museum's annual Student Exhibition. The exhibition has been a tradition for over 70 years at the Parrish in Water Mill and features the work of more than 1,000 young artists from eastern Long Island schools. Their artwork can be viewed from March 2 through April 7. I love helping my students find a voice through their art,” said art teacher Erin Roy. “Each of these students practiced their craft to a high level, but more importantly, they used art as a medium for showcasing their unique point of view. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following student-artists: Jaynelle Breanne Fernandez, Tamara Chaverri Freund, Serafina DiBiaso, Kalliopi Gaetano, Ruby Higinbotham, Vanessa Mart, Christian Naclerio, Emely Ortiz, Alexander Pincott, Catherine Robesh, Emely Salazar and Steven Torres. Date Added: 2/16/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=174750 Fri, 16 Feb 2024 05:00:00 GMT false174750 Students at Westhampton Beach High School spread kindness among their peers when they participated in P.S. I Love You Day on Feb. 9. Spearheaded by the school’s Youth to Youth Club, students were encouraged to wear the initiative’s symbolic purple and engage in random acts of kindness. Members of Youth to Youth also made bracelets with Best Buddies club members and the student body took part in a Unified Volleyball tournament. P.S. I Love You Day aims to raise awareness about bullying and suicide while promoting kindness. Date Added: 2/13/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=174581 Tue, 13 Feb 2024 05:00:00 GMT false174581 The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to high school senior Max Buchen. Buchen took the gold in the 100-yard breaststroke at the 2024 Boys Section XI Championship with a time of 54.26. The time earned him All-American honors and the pool record at Stony Brook University. Buchen also won gold in the 200-yard individual medley and was honored by the Long Island Swimming Officials Association as the 2024 Most Outstanding Competitor. Way to go, Max!! Date Added: 2/12/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=174582 Mon, 12 Feb 2024 07:00:00 GMT false174582 As part of an engaging lesson on friendly letter writing and memory stories, Westhampton Beach second grade students in Stella Boscia’s class wrote letters to author Patricia Polacco. Prior to penning their letters, the students read Polacco’s book “When Lightning Comes in a Jar.” The students’ letters asked the author about her book and if it reflected her own memories. They are eagerly awaiting her reply. Date Added: 2/9/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=174539 Mon, 12 Feb 2024 05:00:00 GMT false174539 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students made predictions on which team would win Super Bowl LVIII through an annual Souper Bowl fundraiser. They used donations of nonperishable goods to vote for the team they thought would win this year’s Super Bowl by placing them in a team bin. The final tally indicated that 139 students guessed the San Francisco 49ers would win and 159 thought the Kansas City Chiefs would take home the title. All items collected will be donated to local food pantries. Date Added: 2/9/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=174538 Fri, 09 Feb 2024 05:00:00 GMT false174538 Three impressive Westhampton Beach High School Advanced Science Research students have advanced to the semifinals of the Junior Sciences and Humanities Symposium. They are set to present their work at the semifinals on Feb. 12 at York College in Queens. Students Meghan Kelly, Grace Orr and Kate Pomroy worked individually on their research for over a year as part of their coursework in AP Research STEM. For the semifinals, they will be required to give a 12-minute talk on their findings. “Meghan, Kate and Grace worked very hard on their research projects and this recognition is very much deserved,” said Dianna Gobler, science research teacher. “I’m incredibly proud of them for making it this far in the prestigious competition and can’t wait to see how they do in the finals.” Principal Dr. Chris Herr added, “These three young ladies have gone above and beyond in their research. The work ethic required, coupled with their passion for science, is unbelievable. We are very proud of their accomplishment and look forward to all the successes that will come their way.” For her project, Kelly explored “The Efficacy of Chemically Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles on Enterobacter aerogenes Compared with Common Antibiotics Ampicillin and Kanamycin.” She said she selected the project because she has always been interested in microbiology. Orr researched how “Calcium Hydroxide Enhances the Adaptive Ability of Coral Species E. Ancora, D. Actinodiscus, and M. capriocornis, Exposed to Decreased pH and Elevated Temperatures in an Ocean Simulated Environment.” She said she became interested in coral after visiting Belize on a school science trip. Pomroy studied “The Effect of L-Leucine on the Regeneration Rate of Hydra Viridissima.” She said she chose the project after reading an article on the regeneration of fly wings. The three seniors are stellar students and participate in a variety of after-school activities. They are all members of the National, Math, Science and Language honor societies and have received AP Scholar designations. Kelly and Pomroy were also recognized as Commended Students in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program as a result of their outstanding scores on the qualifying exam. Kelly additionally is one of only 357 students in the world to earn a perfect score on her AP Research exam, and Orr has been named a finalist in the Long Island Science and Engineering Fair. When not working on her research, Kelly is running track and participating in pep band, Spanish Club and Interact. She plans to study biochemistry at Duke University in the fall. Orr is president of the Cure Club and will be attending Florida Institute of Technology in the fall to study marine biology. Pomroy, who plans to attend college to study mechanical engineering, is president of her school’s book club, vice president of GSA, president of Seascapes Literary Magazine and a member of Mathletes, Quiz Bowl and Art Club. She is also involved in her school’s theater program. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to these three student scientists. Date Added: 2/7/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=174486 Wed, 07 Feb 2024 05:00:00 GMT false174486 Six Westhampton Beach School District students have been named local winners in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 535’s annual essay contests. They were presented with certificates of achievement at an awards ceremony on Jan. 25. Middle school students Regan Moran, Jordan Razzano and Adelina Scott penned winning essays for the Patriots Pen contest that carried the theme of “How are you inspired by democracy?” High school students Ava Borruso, Sam Sarocky and Jack Stalters earned accolades for their Voice of Democracy essays that addressed the question, “What are the greatest attributes of our democracy? The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the essayists on a job well done. Date Added: 1/30/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=174271 Tue, 30 Jan 2024 05:00:00 GMT false174271 Jessica Curran is the second Westhampton Beach High School senior to be named a scholar in the prestigious Regeneron Science Talent Search. She is one of only 300 students from across the nation to earn the honor from the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science and math competition. “I was very excited,” said Curran of learning of the honor. “It was very validating for all my research.” To earn the honor, a $2,000 scholarship and a chance to become a finalist in the competition, Curran demonstrated her research skills, leadership, community involvement and commitment to academics through an application process. She submitted her research project, “Analyzing the Effectiveness of Dasysiphonia japonica as a Seaweed Liquid Fertilizer through Abelmoschus esculentus Growth and Pigment Concentration,” as part of the application. Curran said she selected the research project because seaweed is invasive on Long Island and she wanted to find ways to utilize it as fertilizer. She is continuing her research on the topic at Brookhaven National Laboratory. “It is thrilling to see Jessica’s hard work recognized by such a prestigious science competition,” said Superintendent Carolyn Probst. “Earning this recognition for Westhampton Beach for the second year in a row is a point of pride for the district and speaks volumes of the quality of work happening in the science research program.” “Jessica has taken full advantage of all our district has to offer during her four years in Westhampton Beach,” said Principal Dr. Christopher Herr. “She has gone above and beyond. We are so proud and can’t wait to see what the future brings for this intelligent and dedicated young lady.” Science research teacher Dianna Gobler added, “Jessica is so deserving of this honor. She has embraced every scientific opportunity offered to her [and] she works tirelessly to succeed in everything she does. I couldn't be prouder of her." In addition to being named a Regeneron Scholar, Curran recently earned a perfect score on her AP Research exam, a feat that only 357 students in the world accomplished this year. She is also an AP Scholar with Distinction and a Commended Scholar in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program as a result of her outstanding score on the qualifying exam. Curran is vice president of her school’s National Honor Society and a member of the environmental Cure Club, the robotics team and Quiz Bowl. Outside of school, she volunteers with the Westhampton junior ambulance and is a Girl Scout who earned her Gold Award, the highest award in Girl Scouting. Curran has been accepted to Princeton University, but has not officially committed. She plans to study environmental engineering. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Jessica Curran on this impressive accomplishment. Date Added: 1/11/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=173871 Tue, 16 Jan 2024 05:00:00 GMT false173871 Fifth grade students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School presented an amazing performance of “Pirates! The Musical” by John Jacobson and Roger Emerson on Jan. 11. Directed by music teacher Alexandra Gogas, the production told the story of a musical group of pirates, led by the King of the High C's, on their way to a singing contest. It featured 44 cast and crew members who worked hard to perfect the performance that was enjoyed by all. Date Added: 1/11/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=173850 Fri, 12 Jan 2024 05:00:00 GMT false173850 The talented actors and actresses of Westhampton Beach Middle School will present a comedic production of “The Ransom of Miss Elverna Dower” on Friday, Jan. 26, and Saturday, Jan. 27, at 7 p.m., and on Sunday, Jan. 28, at 2 p.m. Tickets are free. The production will take place in the district auditorium. Date Added: 1/10/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=173829 Wed, 10 Jan 2024 05:00:00 GMT false173829 Westhampton Beach High School runners Lily Strebel and Trevor Hayes were recognized by Newsday. Strebel, a junior, was named to Newsday’s Top 25 Girls Track and Field list for running the 1,000-meter in 2:53.65 to place fifth and the 1,500-meter in 4:38.86 to place sixth at last winter’s state indoor championships. Hayes was named to the Top 25 Boys Track and Field list for running the 1,600-meter in 4:26.66 and placing 20th at last winter’s state indoor championships. Date Added: 1/8/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=173750 Mon, 08 Jan 2024 05:00:00 GMT false173750 Click here https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=173511 Thu, 04 Jan 2024 05:00:00 GMT false173511 Members of the Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise team recently engaged with fellow VE teams from school districts across Long Island at a ninth annual networking event at Atlantis Sea Star Ballroom. During the event, spearheaded by Westhampton Beach High School VE teacher Amy Demchak, students showcased their VE marketing materials and products and conducted simulated business transactions. The Westhampton Beach team, Soteria, displayed their virtual cybersecurity training company. The team’s chief sales officer, Lewis Gibbons, delivered an elevator pitch for the firm at the event. The Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise program requires students to create a business concept and formulate plans to market it. They compete and present their plans at several events throughout the year. Date Added: 1/3/2024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=173660 Wed, 03 Jan 2024 05:00:00 GMT false173660 Westhampton Beach High School AP Spanish students in Denizzie Kearns' class recently visited the United Nations headquarters to learn about its history, objectives and work. They toured the famous General Assembly Hall and Security Council Chamber. The tour, all done in Spanish, provided students with a deeper understanding of how the UN works toward peace, dignity and equality on a healthy planet. “Students left inspired to never give up making this world a better place for all,” said Kearns. Date Added: 12/21/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=173502 Thu, 21 Dec 2023 05:00:00 GMT false173502 As part of their annual toy drive, members of the Westhampton Beach Elementary School Student Council have been collecting donations throughout the month of December. All of the items collected will be donated to those in need. Date Added: 12/20/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=173455 Wed, 20 Dec 2023 05:00:00 GMT false173455 Members of the Westhampton Beach Middle School Student Council are working to collect toys as part of their annual holiday toy drive. The students created signs and collection boxes with a goal to amass as many toys as possible during the month of December. All of the toys will be donated to Toys for Tots. Date Added: 12/15/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=173390 Fri, 15 Dec 2023 05:00:00 GMT false173390 Westhampton Beach High School junior Jorden Bennett was named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Boys Basketball Players list. Bennett, who plays center, was honored for averaging 15.1 points, nine rebounds and two blocks as a sophomore. Date Added: 12/14/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=173345 Thu, 14 Dec 2023 05:00:00 GMT false173345 Three Westhampton Beach High School students recently had the opportunity to attend the Virtual Enterprise Winning Women Conference sponsored by Mastercard at the Mastercard Tech Hub in New York, New York. The seniors –Patricija Dirzius, Isabella Jiminez and Taylor Lagattolla – took part in roundtable discussions, heard from a panel of female Mastercard executives and participated in a tour of the impressive facility. Additionally, their teacher, Amy Demchak, presented during the conference. Date Added: 12/8/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=173197 Fri, 08 Dec 2023 05:00:00 GMT false173197 Westhampton Beach High School senior Trevor Hayes has earned a prestigious 2023 Heisman High School Scholarship award as part of the annual Heisman High School Scholarship competition. Hayes earned the award following an application process that included his academic and athletic successes and community involvement. He was one of 4,878 students from across the country to receive the recognition. Hayes is an accomplished student-athlete. He holds an All-American title in the steeple chase and multiple All-State and All-County titles in cross-country and winter and spring track and field. As for academics, he is an honors student and a member of his school’s National Honor Society, for which he serves in the role of parliamentarian. He is also an Eagle Scout. Hayes intends to study mechanical engineering in college. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Trevor Hayes on this impressive accomplishment. Date Added: 12/8/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=173082 Fri, 08 Dec 2023 05:00:00 GMT false173082 Westhampton Beach High School seniors learned about the dangers of drinking and driving during a hands-on STOP program on Dec. 5. During the assemblies, led by the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office, students learned not only about the dangers of drinking and driving, but also about the risks when drinking and walking, good decision-making and Leandra’s Law. After hearing from the officers, the students attempted to steer a pedal car through an obstacle course, wearing goggles that simulated intoxication. They also tried to walk the course wearing goggles that simulated their vision after drinking three times the legal limit. Freshmen and sophomores will also be participating in alcohol and drug training in December with a visit from the Suffolk County Sheriff’s BAT Mobile, a mobile breath alcohol testing vehicle. Date Added: 12/7/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=173081 Thu, 07 Dec 2023 05:00:00 GMT false173081 Fifty Westhampton Beach Middle School students recently traveled to Albany to participate in the New York State YMCA Youth and Government Conference. They took home numerous awards. The most distinguished achievement was given to Catherine Robesch, who successfully lobbied and won the position of Lieutenant Governor. She will serve at the 2024 Youth and Government Conference in Albany. To earn the coveted position, she outperformed over 25 other candidates from districts across New York State. Additionally, Isabelle McCarthy was awarded Best Overall Delegate of the conference. This was her second time taking home this prestigious award. The cohort also received an Outstanding Bill award for their lotto bill, which was authored by seventh graders Cole Farruggia, Theodore Isaacson, Ryder Kirchner, Kellan Magner, Anthony Nuzzi, Tucker O'Neill, Matthew Palamidessi and Brayden Williams. Best Debater awards were won by Emilia Harrington-Matros, Magner, Sebastian Rivera and William Sultan. Under the direction of adviser Kelly Massaro, the students prepared for the three-day conference by drafting six bills and related arguments. They presented their bills during the conference as part of a simulation of the state's democratic process. They also acted as senators and assembly members, debating and voting on mock bills presented from a variety of school districts across New York State. The students' bills included amending New York State tax law to allow winners of the New York Lottery to claim prizes without the disclosure of any identifying information; amending Assembly Bill A898B to extend the age that a noncustodial parent would be required to financially support a disabled dependent; requiring police agencies in New York State to train a minimum of 15% of their staff as Drug Recognition Experts; making New York State a no kill shelter state; requiring every New York State school to add a one-semester financial literacy course; and amending New York State Law Section 168-f(b-2) and (b-3) to require registered sex offenders to more frequently check in with parole officers. Westhampton Beach Middle School was one of the only participating schools that passed all of their bills on the floor and without veto from the acting governor. Date Added: 12/6/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=173080 Wed, 06 Dec 2023 05:00:00 GMT false173080 Westhampton Beach High School junior Megan Pomroy has become one of only a handful of students from across the country to earn a perfect score on the 2023 PSAT. Pomroy said she was in disbelief when she saw that she received the top score of 1520. “I had to ask one of my friends to double-check for me,” she said. “At first, I thought it was a glitch in the app.” Pomroy said she didn’t go in expecting to get a perfect score. “I just wanted to do well,” she said, noting that she had been studying since July. “We are very proud of Megan,” said Principal Christopher Herr. “She continues to impress us academically and within the school community.” Pomroy is a member of many of her school’s academic programs, including the National Honor Society, Tri-M Music Honor Society, Quiz Bowl, Mathletes and French Club. She is also active in community service as a member of her school’s Key Club. Additionally, she belongs to the GSA and Art Club, participates in her school’s theater program, plays percussion in the pep band and sings in the chamber choir. She also writes for her school’s literary magazine, Seascapes. Looking to the future, Pomroy hopes to study medicine in college. Date Added: 12/1/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172984 Fri, 01 Dec 2023 05:00:00 GMT false172984 All three of Westhampton Beach School District’s schools earned impressive Best School rankings by U.S. News & World Report for the 2023-2024 school year. Westhampton Beach High School earned its title by ranking in the top 40% of nearly 25,000 public high schools that were classified based on their performance on state assessments and how well they prepare students for college. Additionally, the district’s middle and elementary schools earned the distinction based on exemplary performance in reading and math. “We are pleased that all of our schools received Best School rankings,” said Superintendent of Schools Carolyn Probst, “and we will continue to strive for excellence in the education provided to the students of Westhampton Beach.” Date Added: 11/28/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172777 Tue, 28 Nov 2023 05:00:00 GMT false172777 The Business Advisory Club at Westhampton Beach High School recently raised $3,000 through an annual scholarship fundraiser at BOOM Burger in Westhampton. The funds, which will be used to award scholarships to high school seniors, were raised though a raffle and silent auction of items donated by local businesses. BOOM Burger graciously donated 20% of all event sales to the scholarship fund. Date Added: 11/27/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172743 Mon, 27 Nov 2023 05:00:00 GMT false172743 The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the high school robotics team for taking first place recently at the Half Hollow Hills robotics invitational. The team competed in a field of 23 schools at the annual competition in which three-team alliances maneuvered their robots to collect cones and cubes to add to their “energy grids” and balance on a platform in a two-minute time period. Date Added: 11/22/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172742 Wed, 22 Nov 2023 05:00:00 GMT false172742 Westhampton Beach High School recently marked Red Ribbon Week with a variety of anti-drug and alcohol activities. Wearing red bracelets in support of the initiative, students participated in presentations and games related to good decision making, consequences of driving under the influence and social host laws. Date Added: 11/21/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172685 Tue, 21 Nov 2023 05:00:00 GMT false172685 Westhampton Beach Elementary School recently held a successful food drive for their school community. All of the donations will be provided to families of the school. The drive was sponsored by the school’s student council. Date Added: 11/16/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172625 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 05:00:00 GMT false172625 Seven students were inducted into the Westhampton Beach High School National Honor Society during a recent fall ceremony. The new members were inducted in recognition of their demonstrated excellence in service, character, scholarship and leadership. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Rebecca Gutierrez-Haefeli, Zachary Horton, Tyler O’Donnell, Nicholas Rizzo, Heath Sumwalt, Ashley Vasquez Sanic and Evan Zheng. Date Added: 11/16/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172624 Fri, 17 Nov 2023 05:00:00 GMT false172624 Students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School recently celebrated a week of kindness with a variety of activities. They had discussions in their classrooms about the importance of being kind to others, used chalk to write kindness messages outside their school, and wrote kind letters to teachers and staff. Date Added: 11/16/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172627 Thu, 16 Nov 2023 05:00:00 GMT false172627 Westhampton Beach High School science research students recently took a field trip to the Advanced Energy Center in the Stony Brook University Research and Development Park. During the trip, they learned about research in biofuels, combustion, power electronics, hydrogen power and battery storage from Ph.D. and graduate students, as well as from professors. They also had the opportunity to visit the Center of Excellence in Wireless and Information Technology, where they explored the world's largest virtual reality deck, AI-driven robotic cars and the sensor lab. Date Added: 11/15/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172569 Wed, 15 Nov 2023 05:00:00 GMT false172569 Ten Westhampton Beach High School senior athletes penned their names to letters of intent during a college signing ceremony on Nov. 10. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following student-athletes: Ella Carriero, Villanova University, rowing Will Drake, Manhattan College, lacrosse Ashley Erbis, Wagner College, softball Katie Lanning, Queens University of Charlotte, lacrosse Nolan Michalowski, Western Connecticut State University, lacrosse Chloe Mosher, Wingate University, lacrosse Kenzie Schindler, Southern Connecticut University, lacrosse Heath Sumwit, Salve Regina University, lacrosse Gabby Wendel, Bentley University, lacrosse Peyton Worby, Wagner College, lacrosse Date Added: 11/14/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172568 Tue, 14 Nov 2023 07:00:00 GMT false172568 In honoring local veterans for Veterans Day, Westhampton Beach High School students in U.S. history classes met with and heard from members of the VFW Post 5350 on Nov. 9. The veterans spoke to the students about their respective careers in the military. Date Added: 11/13/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172528 Tue, 14 Nov 2023 05:00:00 GMT false172528 Westhampton Beach Elementary School paid tribute to local veterans with a first annual ceremony on Nov. 9. During the event, students learned about the history of Veterans Day, met 14 local veterans from all branches of the military and heard from guest speaker Sr. Master Sgt. Jonathan Mazura. To culminate the ceremony, students sang “Proud of Our Veterans.” Date Added: 11/13/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172525 Mon, 13 Nov 2023 05:00:00 GMT false172525 In its mission to take history out of the textbooks by honoring local veterans, the Hampton Bays School District paid tribute to William “Billy” Hughes during an annual fourth grade Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 8. The students both celebrated Veterans Day and honored Hughes, who is being recognized at the school by having an American flag flown in his honor throughout November. Hughes is the 77th veteran to be honored by the district since 2011. As part of the ceremony, held at Hampton Bays Elementary School, students read Hughes’ biography, spoke about the importance of Veterans Day and sang patriotic songs. They also had the opportunity to meet with members of the military in their classrooms. In 1969, at the height of the Vietnam War, Hughes joined the U.S. Air Force with orders to report for basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas. This assignment was the catalyst for a momentous decision that changed his life. During basic training, he was recruited to join the elite Air Force pararescue specialty team. At the completion of his training, he was transferred to active rescue assignments in Southeast Asia in support of the Vietnam War effort, including missions to rescue downed American fliers in Laos, South Vietnam, North Vietnam and Thailand. This was a tremendous amount of responsibility for an Air Force buck sergeant (E-4), and his missions sometimes included battling with enemy troops in the middle of a rescue. In 1972, Hughes was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, four air medals, and the Vietnam Service and Campaign medals. He was transferred stateside to the Pease Air Force base in New Hampshire, where he participated in civilian rescue operations and was promoted to staff sergeant. In 1974, he was honorably discharged and returned home to work for New York Telephone. The following year, he returned to the military in the New York Air National Guard and established the new 102nd Air Rescue and Recovery Service at the Westhampton Air Base. He trained airmen in pararescue and multi-crew military operations to be combat-ready. Hughes participated in U.S. and international rescue operations until 1991, when he retired as senior master sergeant (E-8). In 1981, Hughes joined the Southampton Town Police Department and retired as lieutenant in 2010. He and his wife, Linda, have two children and three grandchildren. Hughes currently serves as the post commander of the Westhampton All American Post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and is an active member of the Hampton Bays American Legion. To read Hughes’ full bio, visit https://www.hbschools.us/district/flag_ceremony . Date Added: 11/13/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172526 Mon, 13 Nov 2023 05:00:00 GMT false172526 Westhampton Beach High School AP French students recently took an educational trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. During the visit, they went on a scavenger hunt to find art that they have been studying, listened to audio guides in French and researched art that they will be presenting in class. They also had the opportunity to practice their French speaking skills by conversing with French tourists visiting the Met. “It was a great experience and we really appreciate the opportunity to go on these excursions as a class,” said teacher Nicolette Galante. Date Added: 11/8/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172433 Thu, 09 Nov 2023 05:00:00 GMT false172433 Congratulations to the Westhampton Beach High School boys varsity volleyball team for winning the Division 2 Suffolk County Championship title. Their playoff journey will kick off on Saturday, Nov. 11, when they play against Center Moriches. Date Added: 11/8/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172382 Wed, 08 Nov 2023 05:00:00 GMT false172382 The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to girls varsity tennis doubles partners, senior Julia Stabile and junior Matilda Buchen, on their state championship win. The duo earned the title at the state championship on Oct. 4 at Central Park Schenectady. Date Added: 11/7/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172381 Tue, 07 Nov 2023 05:00:00 GMT false172381 For their hard work, determination and dedication to academics, seven Westhampton Beach High School students have earned New York State Scholarships for Academic Excellence. The students qualified for the scholarships based on their exceptional GPAs and Regents test scores. The scholarships can be used toward a New York State institution of higher education. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates students Jane Atkinson, Charles Bookamer, Jessica Curran, Ryan Fives, Sarah Gormley, Meghan Kelly and Kate Pomroy on this accomplishment. Date Added: 11/3/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172288 Fri, 03 Nov 2023 04:00:00 GMT false172288 Westhampton Beach High School seniors, dressed in their best, learned more about the careers they hope to pursue during the 20th annual Senior Skills Breakfast held at the Westhampton Beach Country Club on Oct. 27. During the breakfast, over 60 area professionals served as mentors to the ambitious students in attendance. The professionals shared their knowledge, experience and advice with the students, who were also able to ask questions. Fields represented included law, engineering, accounting and law enforcement. The breakfast’s keynote speech was delivered by Sydney Marks, a 2013 Westhampton Beach High School graduate and private wealth manager at the Royal Bank of Canada. The event was made possible through generous financial sponsorships from the Greater Westhampton Chamber of Commerce and Westhampton Rotary. “This networking event allowed students to make valuable connections in their desired future career fields and gain helpful advice from experienced professionals in our community,” said business teacher Amy Demchak-Connell. Date Added: 11/2/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172270 Thu, 02 Nov 2023 04:00:00 GMT false172270 For the fifth year in a row, students from the Bridgehampton, Hampton Bays, Southampton and Westhampton Beach school districts who are enrolled in Eastern Suffolk BOCES career and technical education programs were presented with scholarships from the Southampton Business Alliance. The scholarships will help defray the out-of-pocket cost of tools and other gear the students are required to supply for their future studies in the building trades, specifically carpentry, HVAC, plumbing and heating, and electrical. This year, the 20 junior and senior students were awarded an average of $275 each. Since the inception of the scholarship in 2019, $33,835 has been awarded to 114 students with a goal to help build a pipeline of skilled workers on the East End of Long Island. The Southampton Business Alliance is a local advocacy group, representing the interests of Town of Southampton businesses for over 30 years. “What better way to help local businesses then by directly addressing the workforce crisis in our Township through supporting BOCES students as they learn the essential trades our membership is looking to hire. Knowing that in some instances this scholarship means the difference between being able to join the programs or not makes it even more important to support these students and their families,” said Sheryl Heather, Business Alliance Executive Director. Date Added: 10/31/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=172168 Tue, 31 Oct 2023 04:00:00 GMT false172168 To mark Fire Prevention Week, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students participated in fire safety lessons with members of the Westhampton Beach Fire Department. Students learned about general fire safety, smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. They also practiced jumping out the window of the fire department’s smoke house simulator. Date Added: 10/20/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=171925 Fri, 20 Oct 2023 04:00:00 GMT false171925 Westhampton Beach High School cross-country star Lily Strebel took first place at the Manhattan College Cross Country Invitational on Oct. 14. She outpaced a field of over 180 runners, running the 2.5-mile race in 15:05.80. The win adds to the junior’s list of accomplishments as an athlete. She was recently named to Newsday’s Top 25 Long Island Girls Cross Country runners and finished fourth at the Bob Pratt 5K Invitational at Sunken Meadow earlier this season with a time of 19:38.3. Watch her post-race interview here: https://ny.milesplit.com/videos/671789/lily-strebels-first-year-of-xc-is-going-well. Date Added: 10/19/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=171847 Thu, 19 Oct 2023 04:00:00 GMT false171847 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students are engaged in a schoolwide art project as part of Guild Hall’s Student Art Festival and in-school artist-in-residence program. As part of the initiative, the students have been paired with artist-in-residence Laurie Lambrecht to bring to life a project that is inspired by Lambrecht’s studio practice as a photographer, fiber and installation artist, as well as by this year's Student Art Festival topic of “Eco vs. Ego.” For the project, students will work with Lambrecht to construct the frame and walls of a small house and create small weavings, prints and sit-upons (cushions). For the walls, students are learning to “paint” with colored yarn and wrap it around driftwood that Lambrecht collected from beaches along the East End. The driftwood pieces will become the walls to the house. The completed project will be displayed at the museum from Jan. 18 to Feb. 24 along with projects developed by other East End schools. Date Added: 10/18/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=171846 Wed, 18 Oct 2023 04:00:00 GMT false171846 Westhampton Beach High School is excited to present its production of “Peter and the Starcatcher” on Friday, Nov. 3, and Saturday, Nov. 4, at 7:30 p.m., and on Sunday, Nov. 5, at 2 p.m. Tickets are free. The fall play, written by Rick Elice, will feature an ensemble with many actors assuming different characters throughout the play, from narrator to specific recurring roles. They also play an integral part in making the set come to life with minimal set pieces. “Audiences can expect to see some familiar characters from the classic Peter Pan and some new characters in this Peter Pan prequel,” director Kimet Speed said. “ The show is creative, funny and touching. There is something for everyone in the family to enjoy.” Date Added: 10/16/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=171767 Mon, 16 Oct 2023 04:00:00 GMT false171767 As part of a new community service outreach initiative, librarians from the Westhampton Beach High School Library and Westhampton Free Library are working in tandem to offer students community service hours. Through the collaboration, which kicked off on Oct. 5, students had the opportunity to stay after school and design thank-you cards for veterans to fulfill their community service graduation requirement. Going forward, the libraries plan to offer additional community service activities for students. Date Added: 10/10/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=171610 Fri, 13 Oct 2023 04:00:00 GMT false171610 Westhampton Beach High School senior Isaiah Ortiz and his friend Marcus LeBrun, a 2023 graduate, are local heroes. On the morning of Oct. 1, Ortiz and LeBrun were enjoying breakfast when they spotted black smoke coming from a house on East Division Street. Without a second thought, they called 911 and drove quickly to the house. “I ran to the back of the house and Marcus went to the front door,” said Ortiz. “At the back of the house, the entire sunroom was filled with smoke.” By the time Ortiz ran around to the front door, the homes’ occupants had answered the door and Ortiz and LeBrun were able to convince them to evacuate the house along with their dog. “They had no idea the house was on fire,” said Ortiz, who said he and his friend were at the right place at the right time. Ortiz is a member of his school’s basketball team and plans to attend Suffolk County Community College in the fall with the goal of becoming a math teacher. “We are very proud of Isaiah and Marcus,” said Superintendent of Schools Carolyn Probst. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=171609 Thu, 12 Oct 2023 04:00:00 GMT false171609 Westhampton Beach Elementary School is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month through a variety of activities. Students are sharing biographies of famous Latinos and Latinas over the school’s public address system and on display boards in their school’s hallways. They have also been reading books and watching videos on the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month and the different cultures and traditions within Spanish-speaking countries. Date Added: 10/5/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=171527 Tue, 10 Oct 2023 04:00:00 GMT false171527 Westhampton Beach High School has been placed on the College Board’s AP School Honor Roll for the 2022-2023 school year. To earn the recognition, 40% or more of the graduating class took at least one AP exam, 25% or more scored a 3 or higher on at least one AP exam, and 2% or more took five or more AP exams during high school. The College Board Honor Roll offers four levels of distinction: bronze, silver, gold and platinum. Westhampton Beach was presented with gold, which honors the school for its ability to provide students with opportunities to earn college credit and for maximizing college readiness. Westhampton Beach was further honored with an AP Access Award, which commends the school for its commitment to equitable access to advanced coursework. Date Added: 10/5/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=171526 Fri, 06 Oct 2023 04:00:00 GMT false171526 As part of Homecoming Spirit Week activities on Oct. 3, students across the Westhampton Beach School District wore pink to school to raise breast cancer awareness. Pictured are Westhampton Beach Middle School students. Date Added: 10/5/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=171521 Thu, 05 Oct 2023 04:00:00 GMT false171521 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Trevor Hayes on being named to Newsday’s top 25 Long Island boys cross-country runners list and junior Lily Strebel for being named to the publication’s top 25 Long Island girls cross-country runners list. Trevor was recognized for finishing 10th in 17:08.8 at the state Class B championship and finishing second in 17:24.4 at the Suffolk Class B state qualifier. Lily was mentioned for finishing fourth in 19:38.3 at the Bob Pratt Invitational at Sunken Meadow earlier this season after running 4:58 in the mile last year. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=171343 Mon, 02 Oct 2023 04:00:00 GMT false171343 Two Westhampton Beach High School students have been selected as alternates for the All-State Festival of the 2023 New York State School Music Association Winter Conference, and 11 were named as performers in the New York State Council of Administrators of Music Education All-County Music Festival. For All-State, Alexandra Behmoiram was named as an alternative for the mixed chorus and Lilah Caputo was selected as an alternate for the symphonic band. For All-County, Behmoiram, Julianna Manfredonia, Mia Pazera, Meghan Pomroy and Maria Sfyroeras will perform with the mixed chorus; Margaret Gilbride, Rosalie Judd and Ryan Zollweg will sing with the treble choir; and Caputo, Angelina LeMaire and Yulianna Mendez-Yaxon will perform with the band. The students were selected for the ensembles based on their scores at the NYSSMA Solo Evaluation Festival, teacher recommendations and ranking. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the musicians for their hard work and dedication. Date Added: 9/29/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=171314 Fri, 29 Sep 2023 04:00:00 GMT false171314 Westhampton Beach High School seniors Jessica Curran and Meghan Kelly have become two of only 357 students in the world to earn perfect scores on their AP Research exams. Both students said they were surprised by their results and extended their gratitude to their research teacher, Dr. Dianna Gobler, for her tutelage and expertise. “I am so happy that there were two of us to earn perfect scores,” said Curran. This is not the first time that Westhampton Beach High School’s research class produced a top scorer. Last year, then-senior Joseph Litjens also received a perfect score. Kelly earned her perfect score for a research paper she wrote on bacteria and antibiotics, while Curran merited the achievement for her research on seaweed as fertilizer. They worked on their papers during the 2022-2023 school year. Both students are AP Scholars with Distinction and were recently recognized as Commended Students in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program as a result of their outstanding scores on the qualifying exam. Additionally, they are members of their school’s National Honor Society and the Westhampton Beach Junior Ambulance. Kelly is also a member of her school’s debate team, Interact Club, pep band and Spanish Club and volunteers at the Quogue Wildlife Refuge. She plans to study biology or biochemistry in college. Curran is on her school’s robotics and Quiz Bowl teams and is a member of the Cure Club. She is also a Girl Scout and earned her Gold Award, the highest award in Girl Scouting. She plans to study environmental engineering in college. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to these seniors on a job well done. Date Added: 9/28/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=171313 Thu, 28 Sep 2023 04:00:00 GMT false171313 AP Scholars named in Westhampton Beach An impressive 128 Westhampton Beach High School students received special Advanced Placement designations based on achievement in college-level coursework. To earn Scholar recognition, students are required to score a 3 or higher on three or more AP exams; for Scholar with Honor, they must earn a 3.25 on all AP exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of those exams; and for Scholar with Distinction, they must receive an average score of 3.5 on all AP exams and grades of 4 or higher on five or more of those exams. Additionally, 27 seniors have earned an AP Capstone Diploma and 46 students received an AP Seminar and Research Certificate. The district congratulates the following students: AP Scholars Marlon Alvarez, Maria Andreoli, Edgar Arguello, Katie Baker, Kali Baumiller, Sophia Biondi, Anna Blanco, Celia Bonawandt, Felix Bouchard, Dylan Brown, Aine Byrne, Ava Calamita, Ella Carriero, Cole Dawson, Charlotte Dermody, Sarah DeVerna, Brooke Donahue, Bryce Flanagan, Sophia Fratello, Morgan Giacchetto, Lewis Gibbons, Hayden Glover, Sintia Gregorio, Alexandra Gurba, Rebecca Gutierrez-Haefeli, Trevor Hayes, Ginger Hendrickson, Zachary Horton, Rosalie Judd, Jamie Kelly, Ava Kuklis, Matthew Kwok, Angelina LeMaire, Bryce Lianzo, Elisabeth Lindahl, Madison Maire, Julianna Manfredonia, Dante Mansfield, Ethan Mastrole, Hollie McAllister, Mylie McCabe, Devin Mensch, Matthew Moran, Miriam Neubauer, Sullivan Norton, Ryan O'Connor, Tyler O'Donnell, Quinn Papagni, Angel Perez-Mucia, Madison Phillips, Conner Puch, Antonella Russo, Julia Ryvicker, Lana Salvaggio, Isabelle Schneider, Sydney Scheurer, McKenzie Schindler, Maria Sfyroeras, Alexander Spizuoco, Shannon Sweet, Rowan Tiska, Christopher Volkman, Giancarlo Volpe, Amelie Vuik, Annabelle Wasser, Evangeline Wasser, Gabriella Wendel, Peyton Worby and Isabella Zaleski AP Scholars with Honor Juliana Amaya-Delcid, Leila Batumoglu, Sydney Beardslee, Matilda Buchen, Drew Calloway, Lilah Caputo, Adrian Caumartin, Santiago Galvis, Catherine Gilvary, Jadyn Hunter, Lauren Hunter, Alessandro Imundi, Fahtima Iqbal, Isabella Jimenez, Kaitlynn Mazurkiewicz, Yulianna Mendez-Yaxon, James Monserrate, Alexandra Munsch, Grace Orr, Liam Parsons, Lily Pereyra, Melina Pinonzek, Meghan Pomroy, Luciana Reilly, Magaly Rojas, Zoe Stokes and Nicolas Warchol AP Scholars with Distinction Luke Albert, Jane Atkinson, Lucas Beckmann, Charles Bookamer, Nicholas Borruso, Abigail Curran, Bernadette Curran, Jessica Curran, Patricija Dirzius, Willow DuBrovin, Ryan Fives, Halle Geller, Sarah Gormley, Theo Grellet-Aumont, Marcus Haynia, Jack Hendrickson, William Jankowski, Alexander Kelly, Meghan Kelly, Graelyn Lorusso, Lucy Mansfield, Ezekiel McCrary, Valeria Nazaretski, Kate Pomroy, Jordan Razzano, Zoey Rudolph, Sean Ryan, Devon Sterry, Lily Strebel, Makayla Vignieri, Haley Waszkelewicz and Kylie Way AP Capstone Diploma Marlon Alvarez, Charles Bookamer, Bernadette Curran, Jessica Curran, Patricija Dirzius, Brooke Donahue, Ryan Fives, Santiago Galvis, Lewis Gibbons, Sarah Gormley, Theo Grellet-Aumont, Trevor Hayes, Jack Hendrickson, William Jankowski, Meghan Kelly, Hollie McAllister, Yulianna Mendez-Yaxon, Tyler O'Donnell, Liam Parsons, Melina Pinonzek, Kate Pomroy, Conner Puch, Alexander Spizuoco, Devon Sterry, Zoe Stokes, Haley Waszkelewicz, and Kylie Way AP Seminar and Research Certificate Maria Andreoli, Jack Ardito, Edgar Arguello, Jane Atkinson, Katie Baker, Gioia Benenati, Celia Bonawandt, Aine Byrne, Ava Calamita, Ella Carriero, Francesca Derby, Charlotte Dermody, Sarah DeVerna, Bryce Flanagan, Sophia Fratello, Catherine Gilvary, Sintia Gregorio, Rebecca Gutierrez-Haefeli, Sabra Harry, Zachary Horton, Isabella Jimenez, Angelina LeMaire, Bryce Lianzo, Elisabeth Lindahl, Madison Maire, Dante Mansfield, Mylie McCabe, Riley Miller, Miriam Neubauer, Sullivan Norton, Grace Orr, Quinn Papagni, Annabella Pellegrinelli, Madison Phillips, Sean Ryan, Sydney Scheurer, McKenzie Schindler, Maria Sfyroeras, Kevin Smith, Rowan Tiska, Amelie Vuik, Annabelle Wasser, Evangeline Wasser, Gabriella Wendel, Peyto Worby, and Isabella Zaleski https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=171308 Wed, 27 Sep 2023 04:00:00 GMT false171308 Westhampton Beach High School seniors Jessica Curran, Jack Hendrickson, Meghan Kelly and Kate Pomroy have been recognized as Commended Students in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program as a result of their outstanding scores on the qualifying exam. The seniors are among 34,000 students throughout the nation to earn the distinction and be recognized for their “exceptional academic promise.” To earn the title, they placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2022 PSAT. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the seniors on this achievement. Date Added: 9/27/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=171312 Wed, 27 Sep 2023 04:00:00 GMT false171312 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates junior Matilda Buchen and senior Julia Stabile, who were named to Newsday’s Top 30 Long Island Girls Tennis Players list. The pair was named for winning the 2022 Suffolk individual doubles title and finishing seventh in the state. In team play last season, they were a combined 35-1 at singles. Date Added: 9/21/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=171174 Thu, 21 Sep 2023 04:00:00 GMT false171174 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates seniors Will Jankowski, Alec Kelly, Casey Sidor and Seth Terry on being named to Newsday’s Top 50 Long Island Boys Volleyball Players list. Will was recognized for having 102 kills, 136 digs and 20 blocks as a junior; Alec for having 81 kills and 80 digs in his junior year and reaching the Suffolk Division II semifinals; Casey for racking up 370 assists, 57 kills and 21 aces last season; and Seth for totaling 130 assists, 131 digs and 90 kills as a junior. Date Added: 9/19/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=171137 Tue, 19 Sep 2023 04:00:00 GMT false171137 Westhampton Beach High School’s star runner Trevor Hayes earned an All-American title following his stellar performance at the Nike nationals at Hayward Field at the University of Oregon. To acquire the title, Hayes took fifth place out of a field of 48 runners in the 2000-meter steeplechase. “I feel very fortunate to have qualified just to compete in the Nike National Championships and to have earned a spot on the podium which included High School All- American status,” said Hayes following the race. To earn his invitational at nationals, Hayes was required to run a qualifying time in the steeplechase at previous competitions. Hayes started running in eighth grade after earning an All-County award in tennis as a seventh grader. Since committing to running, Hayes has received multiple All-County, All-League and All-State recognition in all three seasons of competitive running – cross-country and indoor and outdoor track. He also qualified for the Nike National Outdoor Championships in 2021, 2022 and 2023 in both the steeplechase and one-mile run. Looking forward, Hayes hopes that the Hurricanes cross-country team can galvanize its efforts and reclaim the Suffolk County Class B championship. He also has his sights set on placing in the top three at the NYSPHSAA cross-country championships and the end of the season. Date Added: 9/12/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=170944 Tue, 12 Sep 2023 04:00:00 GMT false170944 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Sarah Gormley, who was named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Girls Soccer Players list. Sarah was recognized for making 19 goals and seven assists last season, including the only goal in Westhampton’s loss against Hauppauge in the first round of the Suffolk Class A playoffs. Date Added: 9/11/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=170930 Mon, 11 Sep 2023 04:00:00 GMT false170930 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates Will Gambino, Andrew Mensch and Brody Schaffer, who were named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Football Players list. Will, a senior, was named as a four-year starter who threw for 1,412 yards and made 16 touchdowns as a junior. Mensch, also a senior, earned recognition as a three-year, two-way starter who uses his size and strength to ignite the running game. Brody, a junior, was honored for rushing for 538 yards and making eight touchdowns last season. He was also named to Newsday’s All-Long Island second team as a kicker. Date Added: 9/7/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=170840 Thu, 07 Sep 2023 04:00:00 GMT false170840 Students across the Westhampton Beach School District quickly became acquainted with their new teachers, routines and programs as they kicked off the 2023-2024 school year on Sept. 6. The students were all smiles as they arrived at their schools and greeted their classmates. They quickly entered their classrooms and got familiarized with their new teachers, classmates, classrooms and schedules. “We are looking forward to a year filled with high quality academic and extracurricular experiences for our students,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. Click here to view the photo slideshow. Date Added: 9/6/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=170845 Wed, 06 Sep 2023 05:00:00 GMT false170845 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=170518 Wed, 06 Sep 2023 04:00:00 GMT false170518 The Westhampton Beach School District Athletic Department is excited to announce the introduction of FinalForms, a new online athletic registration system, which will streamline athletic registrations, boost compliance and safety and reduce repetitive paperwork for families. FinalForms allows the user to upload physical exam paperwork and complete and sign athletic participation forms for students. FinalForms also saves data from season-to-season and year-to-year and pre-populates information wherever possible. Please use FinalForms when registering student athletes during each sports season. Registration for each season will open 30 days before the season start date and will close one week prior to the start of the season. However, parents can create and update their account anytime. To access FinalForms and the Parent Playbook, which provides detailed information on enrollment, visit https://whbschools.org/departments/athletics_FinalForms. Date Added: 8/29/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=170699 Tue, 29 Aug 2023 04:00:00 GMT false170699 Westhampton Beach High School has been named a Scholar-Athlete School of Excellence for the 2022-23 school year by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association. To earn this recognition, 75% of the school’s varsity athletic teams were required to hold a GPA above 90%. Westhampton Beach is among 219 schools to receive this noteworthy designation. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to its varsity athletes for their dedication to academics. Date Added: 8/3/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=170494 Thu, 03 Aug 2023 04:00:00 GMT false170494 Westhampton Beach students are spending their summer mornings learning and playing as part of the district’s summer recreation and academy program, which runs through the month of July. During the four-week program, held at Westhampton Beach Elementary School, students in grades K-8 participate in a wide variety of activities, including swimming, science, computers, crafts and sports. The summer program also provides an opportunity for incoming kindergartners to get acquainted with their new school and for students to work on their academics through extended learning opportunities. High school students volunteer to assist with the program. Date Added: 7/19/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=170372 Wed, 19 Jul 2023 04:00:00 GMT false170372 Date Added: 7/6/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=170233 Thu, 06 Jul 2023 04:00:00 GMT false170233 The Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2023 celebrated an academic milestone as they received their diplomas on June 23 at the school’s 115th commencement exercises. During the evening ceremony, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst and high school Principal Christopher Herr congratulated the students on their academic, athletic and extracurricular accomplishments and their community service contributions. Among those who took the podium were valedictorian Megan Sitzmann and salutatorian Daniel Gosnell. “Enjoy the moments life has to offer you,” Sitzmann encouraged her peers. Gosnell spoke of the lessons he learned at Westhampton Beach. “As we receive our diplomas,” he said, “this not only marks the end of our high school journey, but also a fresh start.” Senior class historian McKenna Heaney rounded out the celebration by speaking of class memories and achievements. In closing, the symphonic choir entertained with a performance of “Home” by Phillip Phillips. After accepting their diplomas and tossing their caps, the graduates joined a final procession off the football field toward their next chapter of success. Click here to view the photo slideshow. Date Added: 6/27/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=170139 Tue, 27 Jun 2023 07:00:00 GMT false170139 Senator Anthony Palumbo and Assemblyman Fred Thiele paid tribute to Class of 2023 valedictorians and salutatorians from six East End schools during an annual ceremony at Hampton Bays High School on June 16. The top-ranking seniors were presented with proclamations for their hard work and dedication. They represented the Bridgehampton, East Hampton, Hampton Bays, Sag Harbor, Shoreham-Wading River and Westhampton Beach school districts. The students had the opportunity to hear firsthand from Sen. Palumbo and Assemblyman Thiele about their careers. In turn, the seniors shared stories about their journeys through high school, their passions and their plans for the future. Friends, family members, school administrators and the guests of honor also enjoyed a brunch prepared by Hampton Bays High School culinary students. Date Added: 6/22/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169930 Thu, 22 Jun 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169930 Wearing their graduation gowns, members of the Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2023 proudly marched through the halls of their former elementary school on June 20, both to reminisce about their early school days and to provide inspiration to current students. As they took the traditional senior walk, the elementary students cheered, clapped and held up signs of congratulations. Click here to view the photo slideshow. Date Added: 6/21/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169986 Wed, 21 Jun 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169986 Westhampton Beach High School actress Meghan Pomroy was awarded a Teeny Award as an Outstanding Performer in a Play for her role as Professor Metz in “The Man Who Came to Dinner.” She was presented with the award at the 21st annual Teeny Awards ceremony on June 11 at Longwood High School. Additionally, Westhampton Beach students were recognized as Teeny Award nominees in various categories. The Teeny Awards program recognizes student talent across 20 East End school districts. The district congratulates the following Westhampton Beach student nominees: Lead in a Play Mia Pazera in the role of Maggie Cutler in “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Supporting Role in a Play Anderson Hipp in the role of Banjo in “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Meghan Pomroy in the role of Beverly Carlton in “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Lead in a Musical Kaylee Dalian in the role of Donna Sheridan in “Mamma Mia” Mia Pazera in the role of Sophie Sheridan in “Mamma Mia” Supporting Role in a Musical Anderson Hipp in the role of Bill Austin in “Mamma Mia” Brady Schultz in the role of Sky in “Mamma Mia” Outstanding Student Choreography Sarah Tedesco for “Super Trouper” from “Mamma Mia” Outstanding Performer in a Play Morgan DeVerna in the role of Harriet Stanley in “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Bea O’Connor in the role of Miss Preen in “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Meghan Pomroy in the role of Professor Metz in “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Outstanding Performer in a Musical Alex Sfyroeras in the role of Pepper in “Mamma Mia” Outstanding Poster Design Sofia Zhiminaicela for “Mamma Mia” Costume Assistants, Costume Designers, Prop Masters & Managers Anderson Hipp, “Mamma Mia” Kaitlynn Mazurkiewicz, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Dance Captains Rosalie Judd, “Mamma Mia” Kaitlynn Mazurkiewicz, “Mamma Mia” Sarah Tedesco, “Mamma Mia” Lighting Designers, Assistants & Crew Aimee Heino, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Graelyn LoRusso, “The Man Who Came To Dinner” and “Mamma Mia” Alejandra Morales, “Mamma Mia” Maria Sfyroeras, “Mamma Mia” Pit Orchestra Students Julia Greiner, Auxiliary Percussion in “Mamma Mia” Liam Greiner, Auxiliary Percussion in “Mamma Mia” Sam Libutti, Auxiliary Percussion in “Mamma Mia” Yulianna Mendez-Yaxon, Auxiliary Percussion in “Mamma Mia” Producers & Production Assistants Kaylee Dalian, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Kaitlynn Mazurkiewicz, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Set Designers, Assistants & Crew Ava Kuklis, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Sound Designers, Assistants & Crew Edward Barr-Forget, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” and “Mamma Mia” Sarah Tedesco, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Special Effects & Graphic Design Anderson Hipp, “Mamma Mia” Stage Crew Alex Baryk, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Bitsy Gaynor, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Carlos Kestler, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Abigail Ketner, “Mamma Mia” Stage Managers & Assistant Stage Managers Kaylee Dalian, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Katie DeVerna, “Mamma Mia” Ginger Hendrickson, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” and “Mamma Mia” Kaitlynn Mazurkewicz, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Chris Volkman, “Mamma Mia” Student Choreographers Rosalie Judd, “Mamma Mia” Sarah Tedesco, “Mamma Mia” Student Poster and Playbill Design Sofia Zhimaicela, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” and “Mamma Mia” Date Added: 6/16/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169793 Fri, 16 Jun 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169793 For their final class project, the students in Nicolette Galante’s French class at Westhampton Beach High School translated and read books to fifth graders at the district’s elementary school. They chose a picture book and took on the role of translator to translate their favorite childhood stories into French. The high schoolers were required to identify vocabulary they knew already and words they needed to research, review grammar unique to their stories, and practice pronunciation and phonetics to improve their accents. Date Added: 6/15/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169747 Thu, 15 Jun 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169747 Westhampton Beach High School counselor Jaclyn Olivotti was recently recognized as a “Rising Star” by the East End Counselors Association. She earned the award for her outstanding service to the profession and the children of Suffolk County as a new counselor. She joined Westhampton Beach in November 2020 as one of the high school’s counselors. Date Added: 6/14/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169746 Wed, 14 Jun 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169746 The Westhampton Beach Union Free School District Board of Education recognized the Class of 2023 valedictorian and salutatorian during their meeting on June 5. Megan Sitzmann and Daniel Gosnell were each presented with a certificate of recognition. Sitzmann, the class valedictorian, will be heading to Northeastern University, where she will study computer science and biology. Gosnell, salutatorian, has enrolled in the 4+4 Program at Hofstra University, where he will pursue a degree in biology and matriculate directly into their medical school. Date Added: 6/13/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169684 Tue, 13 Jun 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169684 The Suffolk County School Superintendents Association hosted the 29th annual Valedictorians Luncheon at Villa Lombardi’s in Holbrook on June 1. The SCSSA tradition honored the enviable accomplishments of the county’s highest-achieving graduates from the Class of 2023 and was attended by school district superintendents, high school principals, valedictorians and their parents. Among them was Westhampton Beach valedictorian Megan Sitzmann. After a warm welcome by SCSSA Vice President Dr. Harold Dean, SCSSA President James Polansky noted that the expectations of the valedictorians moving forward will be different and more challenging. Mr. Polansky advised the graduates to continue “being you.” He also gave them “the basics of success:” You don’t have to win every argument; Learn to yield; Don’t compare your life to others; Give credit; Don’t take no for an answer; No one is in charge of your happiness; Believe in miracles; and Get up, dress up, and show off. Guest speaker Angelique Johnson-Dingle, the New York State Education Department deputy commissioner of P-12 Instructional Support, spoke from the heart with her advice for the valedictorians. In addition to encouraging them to pay it forward, not letting a fall prevent them from succeeding and to remember their home, Ms. Johnson-Dingle advised the graduates to “be kind to yourselves.” “You are the future,” she said. “We need you to go out into the world and shape it into a world you want it to be.” The valedictorians were then called up onto the stage, accompanied by their district superintendent of schools and principal, to receive a commemorative plaque. During closing remarks, SCSSA President-Elect Dr. Timothy Hearney acknowledged that the parents were integral to the graduate’s achievement and should also be congratulated. To the valedictorians, Dr. Hearney said, “We are confident you will create new trails. You represent the best of education.” Date Added: 6/12/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169536 Mon, 12 Jun 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169536 The designs and slogans of five Westhampton Beach High School marketing students in Amy Demchak’s class are now featured on cups at Hampton Coffee Company in Westhampton Beach. The designs of Salvatore Fracapane, Theo Grellet-Aumont, Evelyn Reynoso, AIden Briguglio and Natalie Sadowski were selected following a hands-on project where they put their marketing and branding skills to the test. The students were challenged by Hampton Coffee to create a coffee cup label that promotes their brand. They were presented with the challenge following a presentation by Hampton Coffee Marketing Manager Edythe Collins, who spoke to the students about the importance of branding, as well as her position with the company. Date Added: 6/9/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169528 Fri, 09 Jun 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169528 Westhampton Beach High School freshman Chelsea Aguirre has been accepted into Brookhaven National Laboratory's prestigious STEM Prep Summer Institute. With the acceptance, she will take part in the three-week program over the summer. To earn the spot in the program, Aguirre was required to submit two teacher recommendations, a resume and an essay, as well as undergo an interview process. “This is a great opportunity for Chelsea and we are very excited and proud to be sending her to this program,” said Alison Bufalo, Aguirre’s living environment teacher. Of the opportunity, Aguirre said she is looking forward to meeting new friends and learning new things. She is particularly interested in geology and biology. When not exploring science, Aguirre can be found participating in her school’s art club and drawing. She is also vice president of the GSA club at her school. Date Added: 6/8/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169530 Thu, 08 Jun 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169530 Eight Westhampton Beach High School seniors were honored during a ceremony on June 2 for committing to continue athletics in college. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following students: James Biena, Holy Family University, lacrosse Declan Kerns, St. Joseph's University – Long Island, volleyball Ryan Knieriemen, SUNY New Paltz, baseball Quinn McCormack, Manhattanville College, basketball Laurette Schaumloffel, Molloy University, lacrosse Samantha Schaumloffel, U.S. Naval Academy, Cheerleading Nicholas Simonetta, University of Hartford, track and field Ethan Vogt, Marywood University, soccer Date Added: 6/7/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169526 Wed, 07 Jun 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169526 During a candle-lighting ceremony on June 1, 91 Westhampton Beach High School juniors were inducted into the National Honor Society, one of the oldest and most prestigious national organizations for students. Additionally, its senior members were recognized. To be eligible for membership, the students were required to maintain a weighted GPA of 92 or better, demonstrate the standards of leadership, service, citizenship and character, and complete 30 hours of community service. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following inductees: Marlon Alvarez Siguenza, Maria Andreoli, Edgar Arguello. Jane Atkinson, Rose Babcock, Katie Baker, Ryan Baynon, Lucas Beckmann, Gioia Benenati, Chelsea Berry, Celia Bonawandt, Charles Bookamer, Margaret Burne, Aine Byrne, Ava Calamita, Ella Carriero, Adrian Caumartin, Allison Cooke, Bernadette Curran, Jessica Curran, Grace Dackow, Cassandra Dennehy, Sophia DePierro, Sarah DeVerna, Patricija Dirzius, Benjamin Donahue, Brooke Donahue, Ashley Erbis, Ryan Fives, Bryce Flanagan, Sophia Fratello, Lewis Gibbons, Catherine Gilvary, Hayden Glover, Sarah Gormley, Sintia Gregorio Gonzalez, Theo Grellet-Aumont, Sabra Harry, Trevor Hayes, Jack Hendrickson, William Jankowski, Isabella Jimenez, Rosalie Judd, Alexander Kelly, Meghan Kelly, Angelina LeMaire, Madison Maire, Julianna Manfredonia, Sofia Mattera, Hollie McAllister, Yulianna Mendez Yaxon, Devin Mensch, Riley Miller, Chloe Mosher, Alexandra Munsch, Denia Nava Navarrete, Miriam Neubauer, Joseph Nuzzi, Grace Orr, Quinn Papagni, Liam Parsons, Annabella Pellegrinelli, Madison Phillips, Melina Pinonzek, Kate Pomroy, Gabriel Presutti, Conner Puch, Brynn Reilly, Magaly Rojas, Sean Ryan, Sydney Scheurer, McKenzie Schindler, Maria Sfyroeras, Emily Smith, Kevin Smith, Jacob Spano, Alexander Spizuoco, Julia Stabile, Robert Stabile, Zoe Stokes, Jaimee Tambito, Rowan Tiska, Amelie Vuik, Annabelle Wasser, Evangeline Wasser, Haley Waszkelewicz, Kylie Way, Gabriella Wendel, Peyton Worby, Isabella Zaleski and Valentina Zarama Moreno. Date Added: 6/6/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169491 Tue, 06 Jun 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169491 Wanting to give back to the community, Westhampton Beach High School senior Laurette Schaumloffel spearheaded a successful Unified Field Day at her school on June 2 for students in the Westhampton Beach, Hampton Bays, Southampton and East Hampton school districts. Schaumloffel, who will be heading to Molloy College in the fall to study special education, said she formulated the idea for the field day while volunteering for her school’s Functional Academic Learning Program. She began planning the event in early September with the help of physical education teacher Conner Davis. Schaumloffel is a member of her school’s National Honor Society and Youth to Youth Club and plays varsity soccer, lacrosse and basketball. She is also the recipient of the 2023 New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance Suffolk Zone Award for her exceptional leadership and outstanding character. Date Added: 6/5/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169483 Mon, 05 Jun 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169483 On a daily basis, 2-year-old Oric, a yellow Lab/Golden Retriever mix, brings smiles and joy to the faces of Westhampton Beach Middle School students. Oric, the school’s new facility dog, recently made his first appearance at the school with his handler, social worker Kathryn Swezey. “Oric has already made an impact in the few days he has been at the middle school,” said Swezey. “The students all light up when they see him enter the hallways or their classrooms.” Swezey broached the idea of bringing a facility dog into the school a year and a half ago. Once approved by administration, she began the official application process with Canine Companions for Independence. The nonprofit provides facility, companion and service dogs at no cost. Before being matched with Swezey, Oric, who was bred for temperament, was raised by a volunteer puppy trainer for 16 months and then returned for six months of professional training at the Northeast Chapter of Canine Companions for Independence in Medford. While training, Oric learned 40 impressive commands. He is skilled at turning off lights, opening and closing doors and drawers, and, of course, making students smile. Prior to taking Oric home and into the school, Swezey was required to complete two weeks of training and pass a final practical to become a certified handler. She is required to be recertified in another six months and then annually. Swezey says Oric will assist in individual and group counseling, as well as working in the classroom to help deliver the school’s social emotional learning curriculum. He will also act as a social bridge for students who may have difficulties socializing and those who exhibit anxiety and school phobia. “Oric will help deliver lessons on loyalty, friendship, responsibility, kindness, respect, mindfulness and so much more,” said Swezey. “The possibilities are limitless.” When not at school, Swezey said, Oric spends his time going for long walks, playing with his sister Daisy, who is a pit bull mix, and just being a regular dog. Date Added: 6/2/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169367 Fri, 02 Jun 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169367 The two Westhampton Beach High School Broadcast Journalism classes taught by Kirsten Mett and Dariah Luciano took home first place in the “best broadcast” category at the 2023 BASH Awards at Hofstra University on May 15. This is the first time that Westhampton Beach has won in this category. The team not only took home a first-place prize for their broadcast, but also earned second place in Newsday’s “best local multimedia reporting” category and third place in both the ABC7 Gil Noble Community Award and “best feature package” categories. Over 700 students and 41 schools from Long Island to Westchester attended the awards ceremony, which was hosted at Hofstra University and sponsored by Newsday and ABC7. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the broadcast students on a job well done. Date Added: 6/1/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169365 Thu, 01 Jun 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169365 High school seniors from the Hampton Bays, Southampton and Westhampton Beach school districts who have committed to entering the military upon graduation were honored at a fourth annual ceremony at Agawam Park in Southampton on May 25. During the formal event, the seniors — who represent the 1% of graduates who commit to the military each year — were presented with proclamations and accolades. Their families were given blue star flags. The ceremony included musical military tributes and several speakers who offered congratulations and well wishes. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following seniors who will be entering military service: Kevin Deshler (Marines), Maximus Haynia (West Point), Harry Ovanessian (Navy) and Samantha Schaumloffel (Naval Academy). Date Added: 5/26/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169266 Fri, 26 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169266 Westhampton Beach Middle School thespians recently presented an impressive performance of “Curtains!” by Craig Sodaro. The family-friendly, comedic production showcased the talents of middle school students in grades 6-8. In preparing for the production, students gained new skills, built confidence on stage and created lifelong memories with each other. Date Added: 5/23/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169097 Tue, 23 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169097 Westhampton Beach Middle School seventh grade family and consumer sciences classes recently baked pumpkin-flavored dog treats for their pets and for Bidawee’s adoption center. The treats will also be given to the school’s new facility dog, Oric. Date Added: 5/22/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169032 Mon, 22 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169032 Westhampton Beach High School seniors, dressed in their best, learned more about the careers they hope to pursue during the 19th annual Senior Skills Breakfast held at the Westhampton Beach Country Club on May 19. During the breakfast, over 40 area professionals served as mentors to the ambitious students in attendance. The professionals shared their knowledge, experience and advice with the students, who were also able to ask questions. Fields represented included medicine, science, engineering, film and finance. The event was planned by the Westhampton Beach Business Advisory Committee and sponsored by the Greater Westhampton Chamber of Commerce, Westhampton Kiwanis and First National Bank. Date Added: 5/19/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=169029 Fri, 19 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT false169029 Dressed in their best, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students were excited to participate in their school’s annual Spring Formal Luncheon on May 16. As part of the event, the PTA decorated the cafeteria with balloons and colored tablecloths and helped to serve students. Date Added: 5/17/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=168939 Wed, 17 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT false168939 Budget Approved Presupuesto Aprobado Yes (Si) 209 No (No) 41 Proposition 2 Approved La Propuesta No. 2 Aprobado Library Budget Propuesta de la Biblioteca Yes (Si) 203 No (No) 47 Board Election Elección Delfiducario De La Junta De Educación Halsey C. Stevens : 206 * Heather A. Wright : 214 * *Elected/Fideicomisarios Electos Date Added: 5/16/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=168889 Wed, 17 May 2023 00:00:00 GMT false168889 Chief Master Sergeant Brian Mosher of the 106th Rescue Wing, recently spoke to Westhampton Beach High School History of Long Island students in Korey Williams’ class. The presentation focused on the rescue capabilities of the Rescue Wing in both peacetime and armed conflict, as well as the role of the 106th Rescue Wing on Long Island. The discussion was the culmination of a unit on the history of aviation on Long Island. Date Added: 5/16/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=168757 Tue, 16 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT false168757 Westhampton Beach High School science research teacher Dr. Dianna Gobler has been named the recipient of the Suffolk Science Teachers Association of New York State High School Teacher of the Year Award. Dr. Gobler was nominated for the award by Westhampton Beach High School Principal Dr. Christopher Herr. She earned the recognition for displaying excellence in science education. “I truly love my job and am completely honored to be recognized in this way,” she said. Dr. Gobler has taught at Westhampton Beach High School since 2016, with course subjects including biology, science research, AP Research: STEM and biotechnology. She earned her Bachelor of Science in chemistry at Gettysburg College and her doctorate in molecular biology and biochemistry at Stony Brook University, where she also worked as a researcher for several years before transitioning to teaching. In addition to teaching, Dr. Gobler is co-principal investigator for the SPARK Spectroscopy High School Research Program at Brookhaven National Laboratory. She is also one of 10 teachers to have been selected for the prestigious Regeneron STEM Teaching Fellowship through Teachers College of Columbia University. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Dr. Gobler for being named Teacher of the Year. Date Added: 5/15/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=168755 Mon, 15 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT false168755 Date Added: 5/12/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=168797 Fri, 12 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT false168797 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students were all smiles and cheers on May 10 when they were treated to an exhilarating BMX show by Dialed Action Sports. The show promoted healthy lifestyle choices, including the importance of wearing helmets and being kind to others, while also entertaining students with impressive tricks and stunts. Date Added: 5/11/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=168756 Thu, 11 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT false168756 Westhampton Beach High School seniors Noah Hebberd and Laurette Schaumloffel were recently honored by the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance as winners of the Suffolk Zone Award. The seniors were selected based on their outstanding character, exceptional leadership in the school environment, and status as a physical fitness role model for other students. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates both students on this well-deserved honor. Date Added: 5/10/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=168677 Wed, 10 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT false168677 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students recently participated in a special assembly featuring the Diversity Circus. The PTA-sponsored event was brought to the school as part of work conducted by the school’s Equity Team. The show uses comedy, characters and magical illusions to engage students in social-emotional learning messages related to fairness, awareness, inclusivity and respect. Date Added: 5/9/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=168627 Tue, 09 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT false168627 High school seniors from the Hampton Bays, Southampton and Westhampton Beach school districts who have committed to entering the military upon graduation will be honored at a joint ceremony at Agawam Park in Southampton on Thursday, May 25, at 10 a.m. During the formal event, the seniors will be presented with proclamations and their families will be given blue star flags. The annual ceremony will include a musical military tribute and several speakers. Date Added: 5/8/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=168578 Mon, 08 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT false168578 The Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise team took home top awards in various categories at the VE National Business Plan Competition, held April 17-18. Team EcoEats placed first in the QuickBooks category, sixth in the human resources category, and seventh in both the business plan and finance categories. EcoEats earned its spot at the national VE competition after competing at the Long Island Regional Conference and Exhibition, coordinated by the nonprofit Virtual Enterprises International. They were one of only two teams in the country to advance to the national competition in all five categories: business plan, human resources, finance, QuickBooks and marketing. The students’ virtual company sells edible spoons, sporks and straws. They developed the business to combat the enormous amount of waste caused by the disposal of plastic utensils. The Westhampton Beach High School VE program requires students to create a business concept and formulate plans to market it. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to EcoEats on their exceptional performance. Date Added: 5/5/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=168555 Fri, 05 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT false168555 As a symbol of their commitment to the pursuit of higher education, the Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2023 wore the apparel of their college of choice on May 1. The class will be heading to a number of premier schools this fall, including Cornell University, Harvard University, Northwestern University, Penn State and Stony Brook University, to begin their postsecondary studies. “We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2023,” said Principal Dr. Christopher Herr. “They have made their mark on Westhampton Beach High School, and we wish them the very best in the future.” Date Added: 5/2/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=168422 Tue, 02 May 2023 06:00:00 GMT false168422 Westhampton Beach Elementary School and high school students celebrated National Poem in My Pocket Day on April 27. At the high school, students shared their favorite poems — both from renowned poets and those they had penned themselves — with peers, teachers, administrators and staff. Participating students were entered into a raffle for a chance to win a Barnes & Noble gift card. At the elementary school, students shared their poetry during lunch, at recess, and all throughout the day. Students wore peel and stick pockets on their shirts and carried poems that they found or composed themselves. Date Added: 5/2/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=168403 Tue, 02 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT false168403 Westhampton Beach Middle School students recently raised $185 for the Anderson Center for Autism as part of a pajama day autism awareness fundraiser. The students worked to collect donations during their lunch periods. The annual fundraiser was inaugurated by Westhampton Beach High School alumna Abby Edwards, who has been coordinating local autism awareness pajama day fundraisers for the Anderson Center since 2017. Date Added: 4/27/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=168280 Thu, 27 Apr 2023 04:00:00 GMT false168280 Westhampton Beach High School junior Yulianna Mendez-Yaxon will be performing with members of her band at the United Nations affiliated Aspire Artemis Foundation Gala on May 18 in New York City. “This is really a huge opportunity,” she said. Mendez-Yaxon will be performing on keyboard with her band, The Squeaky Belts. The band was assembled as part of the East End Arts Council music program, through which Mendez-Yaxon studies music with Bakithi Kumalo, who, among numerous credentials, has been the bass player for Paul Simon's bands. When not working on rock music at the East End Arts Council, Mendez-Yaxon is practicing and performing on flute and piccolo with the symphonic band at her school. An All-County musician, she has also been selected to perform in prestigious concerts with the New York State Band Directors Association, the Suffolk County Music Educators Association and the Hampton Music Educators Association. Date Added: 4/27/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=168285 Thu, 27 Apr 2023 04:00:00 GMT false168285 A group of Westhampton Beach High School freshmen recently had the opportunity to tour the campuses of Sacred Heart University and Yale University. While touring, they learned about the college application process, what to look for in a college, how to compare different colleges and campuses, and what questions to ask during a college visit. “It is important for freshmen to begin to develop a framework of their own college preferences,” said Robert Finn, director of guidance and data management. Date Added: 4/26/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=168242 Wed, 26 Apr 2023 04:00:00 GMT false168242 Members of the Westhampton Beach High School varsity football team recently volunteered their time to assist the Moriches Bay Project with a beach cleanup from Cupsogue Beach to Jetty 4. In total, cleanup volunteers collected a total of 1,500 pounds of trash in three hours. Date Added: 4/19/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=168042 Wed, 19 Apr 2023 04:00:00 GMT false168042 Westhampton Beach Middle School is proud to announce that 73 students have been named as National Junior Honor Society members. The students were officially inducted during a candle-lighting ceremony. To be eligible for membership, the students were required to maintain an unweighted GPA of 92 or better; meet the standards of leadership, service, citizenship and character; and complete community service. “This is an amazing group of young people and I'm excited to work with them this year,” said NJHS adviser Camille Pedersen. Westhampton Beach Middle School congratulates the following inductees: Elhani Armijos, Angely Bardales Ramos, Alexandra Barry, Sarah Beckmann, Tyler Bennett, Olivia Bittner Namvar, Dylan Blenk, Lily Blenk, Lily Bonawandt, Liam Brand, Mia Brown, Hayden Calhoun, Jake Calloway, Lea Cavaliere, Avery Celi, Ava Conti, Crosby Cutler, Lila Davin, Quinn Davis, Annabelle Emerson Molinoff, Carol Estrada, Nicole Fink, Evangelia Gaetano, Daphne Garcia, Jasmin Garcia Barrientos, Sarai Garzon Melo, Taylor Gdula, Brett Geller, Emmanuel Gomez, Olivia Gonzalez, Nico Grazina, Zoe Grellet Aumont, Abigail Halloran, Magnus Haynia, Nicolas Hochhauser, Brady Hudson, Sophia Hussain, Adam Iqbal, Olivia Kampfer, Evelyn Kuroski, Emma Luzim, Teagan Lynch, Colleen McCormack, Leandra Melo, Lily Mensch, Ellie Mett, Penelope Meyer, David Meyers, Amanda Michne, Weronika Mikucka, Gabriel Monserrate, Christina Nikolopoulos, John Nuzzi, Erik Olsson, James Ostensen, Douglas Owens, Beren Ozgurcag, Caden Padavan, Adam Poulmentis, Luca Presutti, Avery Rilling, Blake Rudolph, Bella Ruggiero, Joseph Ruiz Estrada, Liam Sarian, Reagan Schindler, Grayden Scott, Nicholas Simone, Grace Smith, Matthew Suarez, Elizabeth Sultan and Matias Triaca. Date Added: 4/6/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=167780 Thu, 06 Apr 2023 04:00:00 GMT false167780 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates freshman Addison Celi for being named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Softball Players list. Addison was named for pitching to a 2.41 ERA and making 215 strikeouts last season. Date Added: 4/5/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=167779 Wed, 05 Apr 2023 04:00:00 GMT false167779 Westhampton Beach School District’s school resource officer, Mark Yakaboski, has been named the Westhampton Beach Village Police Department’s 2022 Officer of the Year. Yakaboski has been with the department for nearly 15 years and was assigned to the Westhampton Beach School District as an SRO in January 2022. “Officer Yakaboski has been an asset to our district, providing additional safety within the district while also making important connections with students,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. “We are grateful for his service.” As an SRO, Yakaboski not only provides a visible law enforcement presence in the school district, but also works with students by providing educational programs on topics such as drug prevention, cyber safety, conflict resolution and positive choices. He also offers staff training for emergency preparedness and response, as well as for AED use, CPR, first aid, Narcan and Stop the Bleed. In addition, he conducts safety drills and works closely with administration. On any given day, Yakaboski can be found interacting with students. It is the part of his job that he says he most enjoys. “When I started my career, if you asked me whether I wanted to work in a school, I would have said no,” he said. “But now that I am in the role, I cannot imagine being anywhere else. I enjoy coming to work every day.” Yakaboski said he works daily to allow students and staff to see law enforcement in a different perspective, build positive relationships, and foster a sense of trust and respect. “This can all help to create a safe and supportive school environment,” he said. When not in the school district, Yakaboski works as the Westhampton Beach Village’s community relations officer and is active in organizing and participating in community events. He is also working toward certification to provide safety boating classes. He is already certified as an American Heart Association instructor, a Stop the Bleed instructor and in crisis intervention. Date Added: 4/3/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=167718 Mon, 03 Apr 2023 04:00:00 GMT false167718 Westhampton Beach Elementary School celebrated Pick a Reading Partner Month through a March Madness reading initiative. Throughout the month, students listened to a wide variety of books read by the school librarian, the public librarian and administrators. After listening, they voted for their favorite books. “March Madness helps students explore different books and genres and promotes a love of reading,” said school librarian Joy Campagna. Date Added: 3/29/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=167589 Wed, 29 Mar 2023 04:00:00 GMT false167589 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Reilly Mahon and sophomore Maya Farnan for being named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Girls Lacrosse Players list. Reilly was selected for making 16 goals, seven assists and 19 draw controls last season. She also picked up 31 ground balls and caused 14 turnovers. Maya was recognized for making 172 saves last season — the most ever made in the program’s history — and for picking up 14 ground balls and causing two turnovers. Date Added: 3/28/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=167588 Tue, 28 Mar 2023 04:00:00 GMT false167588 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Morgan McEntee, who was named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Boys Lacrosse Players list. The senior was recognized for netting 39 goals and 10 assists last season. He is the team’s only returning starter in the attack position. Date Added: 3/23/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=167492 Thu, 23 Mar 2023 04:00:00 GMT false167492 As part of Canes Care week at Westhampton Beach High School, members of the Westhampton Beach Youth to Youth Club collected and donated 561 pounds of food for the food pantry at Immaculate Conception Church, 130 pounds of arts and crafts supplies for Camp Good Grief, and 75 pounds of pet supplies for local animal shelters. In addition, the students wrote 156 cards for the residents of the Westhampton Care Center. Date Added: 3/22/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=167426 Wed, 22 Mar 2023 04:00:00 GMT false167426 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Max Haynia, who was named to Newsday’s Top 25 Long Island Boys Outdoor Track and Field athletes list. The senior was recognized for winning the Class B cross-country public school state championship last fall and for finishing sixth in the 3,200-meter in 9:05.16 at the indoor state championships. Date Added: 3/21/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=167310 Tue, 21 Mar 2023 04:00:00 GMT false167310 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Lily Strebel, who was named to Newsday’s Top 25 Long Island Girls Outdoor Track and Field athletes list. The sophomore was recognized for finishing fifth in the 1,000-meter in 2:53.65 and sixth in the 1,500-meter in 4:38.86 at the indoor state meet. She won the Suffolk small school titles in the 1,000 (2:56.37) and the 1,500 (4:41.57). Date added: 3/20/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=167269 Mon, 20 Mar 2023 04:00:00 GMT false167269 Westhampton Beach High School has announced Megan Sitzmann and Daniel Gosnell as its Class of 2023 valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively. The two seniors earned the top spots in their class through their outstanding commitment to academics. Sitzmann and Gosnell have achieved a number of academic accomplishments during their tenure at Westhampton Beach High School. Both were named AP Scholars with Distinction by the College Board for their outstanding Advanced Placement exam scores, and both are members of the school’s National, Math, Science and World Language honor societies. Additionally, Sitzmann is a member of her school’s Tri-M Music Honor Society, plays the trumpet in her school’s band and sings in the chorus. She also participates in her school’s science research program and earned a Long Island Science Congress achievement award. Outside of school, she serves as captain of the Westhampton Beach Junior Ambulance. In the fall, Sitzmann plans to attend Northeastern University, where she will study science and biology. Gosnell serves as co-vice president the Interact Club and is a member of the Youth-to-Youth Board. He is also an athlete and has played on his school’s varsity volleyball team for the past two years. Outside of school, he is a member of the Westhampton Beach Junior Ambulance and Westhampton Beach Junior Fire Department. Gosnell plans to study pre-med in college with a focus on chemistry. Date Added: 3/17/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=167268 Fri, 17 Mar 2023 04:00:00 GMT false167268 Three talented Westhampton Beach High School student-musicians recently had the honor to perform with the New York State Band Directors Association High School Honor Band in Syracuse. The students, Lilah Caputo (clarinet, grade 10), Angelina LeMaire (clarinet, grade 11) and Yulianna Mendez-Yaxon (flute, grade 11), were selected for the honor based on their spring 2022 NYSSMA solo adjudication scores and teacher recommendations. They joined over 110 other high school students from across the state to perform very challenging music with a high degree of musicianship. Their conductor, Dr. Andrew Boysen Jr., composed their final piece on the program, “Phoenix.” “Our students left inspired and rejuvenated as musicians and made some new friends along the way,” said Josh Seifert, symphonic band director. “We are so proud of them and grateful that they had this opportunity.” Date Added: 3/15/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=167218 Wed, 15 Mar 2023 04:00:00 GMT false167218 Westhampton Beach High School senior Jack Schultz has advanced to the final round of the 2023 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair finals, to be held May 14-19 in Dallas, Texas. He will be one of only 20 student researchers from New York State and 1,800 from across the world to compete for nearly $6 million in awards during the fair. Schultz was selected following submission of his work and an in-person interview surrounding his research related to the alteration of mineral and elemental composition in Saccharina latissima exposed to elevated levels of carbon dioxide. Of the honor, Schultz said, “It is surreal.” Schultz said he is looking forward to making long-lasting connections with fellow student researchers. Schultz is also the first Westhampton Beach High School senior to be named a scholar in the prestigious Regeneron Science Talent Search. He is one of only 300 students from across the nation to earn the honor from the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science and math competition. To earn that honor, a $2,000 scholarship and a chance to become a finalist in the competition, Schultz demonstrated his research skills, leadership, community involvement and commitment to academics through an application process. He submitted three of his research projects, including the one he will be presenting at the Regeneron ISEF. Schultz, an AP Scholar with Distinction, has also conducted extensive paleontology research, finding inspiration through dinosaur dig trips he took to Wyoming and Montana as part of the Westhampton Beach School District’s paleontology program. Recently, a paper that he and a Westhampton Beach alumnus wrote and researched, regarding methodology for dissolution of sediment and calcareous deposits for paleontological specimen collection and identification, was published by the peer-reviewed journal MethodsX. Schultz is currently preparing two additional manuscripts for publication on kelp and on the KPg extinction event. Schultz recently completed a project to restore a 65-million-year-old dinosaur fossil along with his science research classmates and has devoted time to researching microfossils. When not researching, Schultz can be found outdoors running, fishing and skiing. He intends to study biochemistry and molecular biology in college. “It’s wonderful to see a student who works his tail off be recognized in this world-renowned competition,” said science research teacher Dianna Gobler. “This couldn’t have happened to a more deserving person. Jack is as kind as he is smart and always willing to help everyone around him.” Date Added: 3/13/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=167092 Mon, 13 Mar 2023 04:00:00 GMT false167092 Top math students at Westhampton Beach Middle School recently participated in a 35-question, 30-minute math competition through the Online Math League. The top three students from each grade were recognized for their skills. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following top scorers: Grade 6 Chris Meyers, Dylan Isaacson and Gage Matlock Grade 7 Cameron Hipp, Emilia Harrington-Matros, Filip Sanczenko and Michael Litjens Grade 8 David Meyers, Zoe Grellet-Aumont, Lily Blenk and Joaquin Jimenez Date Added: 3/10/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=167055 Fri, 10 Mar 2023 05:00:00 GMT false167055 Westhampton Beach High School thespians, under the direction of Kimet Speed, will present a performance of “Mamma Mia” on Friday, March 24, and Saturday, March 25, at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, March 26, at 2 p.m. in the school’s auditorium, 49 Lilac Road, Westhampton Beach. Tickets are free. The family-friendly production was selected for its upbeat and well-known songs. “We hope everyone will be dancing in the aisle at the end,” said Speed. Date Added: 3/7/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=166883 Tue, 07 Mar 2023 05:00:00 GMT false166883 Westhampton Beach High School marketing students in Amy Demchak’s class are engaged in a hands-on project where they are putting their marketing and branding skills to the test. The students have been challenged by Hampton Coffee to create a coffee cup label that promotes their brand. Hampton Coffee will select its favorite design and produce a limited quantity for its Westhampton Beach location. The challenge came following a March 2 presentation by Hampton Coffee Marketing Manager Edythe Collins. Collins spoke to the students about the importance of branding, as well her position with the company. “This is an amazing opportunity,” said Demchak. “My class is ecstatic about this real-world opportunity to apply their creativity and knowledge of brand management to this competitive project.” Date Added: 3/6/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=166846 Mon, 06 Mar 2023 05:00:00 GMT false166846 Westhampton Beach Middle School students are celebrating their school’s 18th annual community read, where they, along with staff and parents, are all reading and discussing the same book, “House Arrest” by K.A. Holt. The community read will culminate with a Community Read Night on March 9, where the book will be celebrated through various activities. Date Added: 3/3/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=166845 Fri, 03 Mar 2023 05:00:00 GMT false166845 The Westhampton Beach School District is now registering children for the 2023-2024 school year. To be eligible, students must be 5 years old as of Dec. 1, 2023. In-person registration will be held at Westhampton Beach Elementary School on Tuesday, March 21, from 9-11 a.m., 1:30-2:30 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m.; and on Wednesday, March 22, from 9-11 a.m. and 1:30-2:30 p.m. Registration packets and additional information are available online at https://whbschools.org/parents_students/student_registration. For questions, please call 631-288-3800, ext. 231. Date Added: 3/2/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=166792 Thu, 02 Mar 2023 05:00:00 GMT false166792 Westhampton Beach High School’s Virtual Enterprise team, EcoEats, has become one of only two teams in the country to advance to the national VE competition in all five categories: business plan, human resources, finance, QuickBooks and marketing. The students will compete on April 17 and 18 in New York City. They will then participate in the VE International Trade Show at the Javits Center on April 19. EcoEats earned its spot at the national VE competition after competing at the Long Island Regional Conference and Exhibition, coordinated by the nonprofit Virtual Enterprises International. The students’ virtual company sells edible spoons, sporks and straws. They developed the business to combat the enormous amount of waste caused by the disposal of plastic utensils. The Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise program requires students to create a business concept and formulate plans to market it. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the EcoEats team: Anthony Agudelo, chief marketing officer; Chelsea Berry, chief operating officer; Emma Davis, chief executive officer; Patricija Dirzius, chief financial officer; and Max Haynia, chief technology officer. Date Added: 2/28/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=166714 Tue, 28 Feb 2023 05:00:00 GMT false166714 Westhampton Beach Middle School students in Kathleen Ciancio’s seventh grade family and consumer sciences class recently created interior design makerspace projects. For the hands-on project, the students worked in groups to sketch drawings of the layout of their homes and then used shoeboxes, craft supplies and recycled materials to make their homes come to life. Their works were then displayed in the school’s cafeteria. Date Added: 2/17/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=166467 Fri, 17 Feb 2023 05:00:00 GMT false166467 Westhampton Beach High School junior Max Buchen took first place in the 100-meter breaststroke with a time of 56:54 at the Suffolk County Championship meet at Stony Brook University on Feb. 11. The time earned him a spot in the New York State Championship in March and an All-American consideration. At the same meet, he placed in the top 10 in the 50 freestyle. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Max on a job well done. Date Added: 2/16/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=166431 Thu, 16 Feb 2023 06:00:00 GMT false166431 In honor of Black History Month, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students are learning about influential African Americans through an interactive display in the school’s main hallway. The “Essential Elements of Black History” display, set up in the form of the Periodic Table of Elements, features QR codes that students can scan to access more information from a variety of age-appropriate, online sources. In addition, students are working to build a “Rooted & Grounded in Black History” paper tree display, to which they are adding leaves containing information about what they have learned about famous African Americans. Date Added: 2/15/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=166411 Wed, 15 Feb 2023 05:00:00 GMT false166411 Westhampton Beach Elementary School was filled with celebration on Feb. 13 as students and staff marked the completion of the first 100 days of school with an array of fun-filled learning activities. Kindergartners recognized the 100th day by adorning “100 Days of School” hats and enjoyed practicing their counting skills through different counting activities. Date Added: 2/14/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=166395 Tue, 14 Feb 2023 05:00:00 GMT false166395 Members of the Westhampton Beach Elementary School Student Council recently hosted a successful drive to collect warm coats, hats, gloves and scarves for those in need. All items will be donated to the nonprofit Maureen’s Haven, which assists the homeless population. Date Added: 2/13/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=166241 Mon, 13 Feb 2023 05:00:00 GMT false166241 As part of a recent Black History Month celebration, several Westhampton Beach High School students volunteered to read books and participate in engaging activities with students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School. The high school students read age-appropriate books to the elementary students, including “It’s Okay to Be Different” by Todd Parr, “Our Class Is a Family” by Shannon Olsen, “All Are Welcome” by Alexandra Penfold, “Same, Same But Different” by Jenny Sue Kostecki-Shaw, and “The Day You Begin” and “The Other Side” by Jacqueline Woodson. This is the second time that high school students have participated in readings at the elementary school. The initiative was launched by the district’s Equity Committee as a way to bring the schools and students together around something positive. Date Added: 2/10/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=166240 Fri, 10 Feb 2023 05:00:00 GMT false166240 Gavin Vander Schaaf, a Westhampton Beach senior, has earned a national Gold President’s Volunteer Service Award for his community service activities. The dedicated senior earned the honor after completing over 480 hours of community service; only 250 hours were required. Vander Schaaf engages in numerous community service undertakings. He is a volunteer for the nonprofit Second Serve, where he is the national director of human resources. In his role, he virtually interviews volunteers for the organization, fields technical support calls and participates in team meetings. He is also a senior leader for the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards program, where he is responsible for planning and running leadership retreats for his peers. Additionally, he has served as a motivational speaker for the nonprofit Life Serve Youth Foundation, which provides tennis camp experiences to underprivileged youth. Since becoming a volunteer with the organization, he has been hired as its associate director. For Vander Schaaf, volunteering is about providing inspiration and opportunities to underprivileged teens and children. “My goal is to change one person’s life for the better,” he said. Vander Schaaf is also a dedicated student who participates in many extracurriculars. He is a member of his school’s National, Tri-M, Math, Science and World Languages honor societies, a semifinalist in the 2023 National Merit Scholarship Program, an AP Scholar with Distinction, co-president of his school’s Interact Club, a member of his school’s Youth to Youth executive board and a singer in the school’s chamber choir. He is also captain of his school’s varsity tennis team and holds All-League and All-County titles. He intends to study secondary education in college. Date Added: 2/9/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=166239 Thu, 09 Feb 2023 05:00:00 GMT false166239 Westhampton Beach Middle School students Ellie Mett and James Ostenen have been named local winners in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 535’s annual Patriot’s Pen essay contest. The students wrote the winning essays on the topic of “My Pledge to Our Veterans.” Date Added: 2/1/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=165554 Wed, 01 Feb 2023 05:00:00 GMT false165554 Five Westhampton Beach High School students have been named local winners in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 535’s annual Voice of Democracy essay contest. Their stellar essays were selected from a field of 90 essays and written on the contest theme of “Why a Veteran Is Important.” Achieving honors in the Voice of Democracy essay contest and winning $100 and a chance to earn accolades at the state level were Katie Baker, Maiya Boughal, Theo Grellet-Aumont, Emma O’Came and Maria Sfyroeras. Date Added: 1/31/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=165553 Tue, 31 Jan 2023 05:00:00 GMT false165553 For his unwavering patriotism and dedication to the goals of the VFW, Westhampton Beach High School social studies teacher Korey Williams has been named the 2023 VFW New York State Teacher of the Year. This is the second time he has earned the honor. He was previously named in 2018. Williams earned the honor after receiving a nomination from local VFW Post 5350. He is known for supporting the post’s annual Patriot’s Pen and Voice of Democracy student essay contests and inviting post members to tell their stories to students every November. Williams, who has been teaching in the Westhampton Beach School District for the past 28 years, said he is honored by the recognition. In addition to teaching, Williams coaches the Westhampton Beach junior varsity boys and girls tennis teams. He is also a Navy veteran, a 24-year member of VFW Post 5350, a retired 25-year member of the Westhampton Beach Fire Department, and sits as president of the trustees at the Westhampton Beach Presbyterian Church. With the state recognition, Williams is now in the running to become the national VFW Teacher of the Year. Date Added: 1/30/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=165552 Mon, 30 Jan 2023 05:00:00 GMT false165552 The Westhampton Beach Middle School Lego Robotics club finished strong at the regional FIRST Lego League competition at Mineola High School on Jan. 23. Club members built and programmed a robot to accomplish various challenges at the competition. The students also gained real-life field engineering skills after their robot experienced some technical difficulties during the challenge. They worked collectively to engineer a solution despite the pressure of the competition. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following Lego Robotics club members on a job well done. Bruno Chaverri Freund Ryder Kirchner Gage Matlock Matthew Palamidessi Colm Parsons Alexander Pataridze Alexander Pincott Henry Rodríguez Date Added: 1/24/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=165432 Tue, 24 Jan 2023 05:00:00 GMT false165432 Westhampton Beach Elementary School fourth graders learned about the life and history of Native Americans during a Journeys into American Indian Territory program on Jan. 18. During the event, students explored Native American artifacts such as Native American clothing, dolls and pottery and listened to traditional stories. Date Added: 1/19/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=165288 Thu, 19 Jan 2023 05:00:00 GMT false165288 Jack Schultz is the first Westhampton Beach High School senior to be named a scholar in the prestigious Regeneron Science Talent Search. He is one of only 300 students from across the nation to earn the honor from the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science and math competition. This is a proud moment for the district, said Westhampton Beach Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. There is nothing better than seeing a student's hard work pay off in this type of national recognition. Award-winning research does not happen overnight and the district is most fortunate to have an educator with Dr. Diana Gobler's experience and dedication leading the science research program. To earn the honor, a $2,000 scholarship and a chance to become a finalist in the competition, Schultz demonstrated his research skills, leadership, community involvement and commitment to academics through an application process. He submitted three of his research projects, including one related to the alteration of mineral and elemental composition in Saccharina latissima exposed to elevated levels of carbon dioxide. He has been working with scientists at Stony Brook Southampton and Brookhaven National Laboratory as part of the lab’s Student Partnerships for Advanced Research and Knowledge (SPARK) program. Schultz, an AP Scholar with Distinction, has also conducted extensive paleontology research, finding inspiration through dinosaur dig trips he took to Wyoming and Montana as part of the Westhampton Beach School District’s paleontology program. Recently, a paper that he and a Westhampton Beach alumnus wrote and researched, regarding methodology for dissolution of sediment and calcareous deposits for paleontological specimen collection and identification, was published by the peer-reviewed journal MethodsX. He is currently preparing two additional manuscripts for publication on kelp and on the KPg extinction event. Schultz has recently completed a project to restore a 65-million-year-old dinosaur fossil along with his science research classmates and has devoted time to researching microfossils. “I am thrilled that he is being recognized for all his incredible work and efforts,” said science research teacher Dr. Dianna Gobler. Jack walked into my classroom when he was in ninth grade. The district did not offer a science research program for freshmen then, but he began to do research on his own during his lunch. He has worked on his research tirelessly since then, usually two hours per day in the classroom and many more at home. His passion, work ethic and innate intellectual ability set him apart.” When not researching, Schultz can be found outdoors running, fishing and skiing. “This is just so incredible to be the first in Westhampton Beach to be named a Regeneron Scholar,” he said. Schultz intends to study biochemistry and molecular biology in college. “We look forward to seeing what his future brings,” said high school Principal Christopher Herr. “Jack is an incredible student who has taken advantage of every opportunity in Westhampton Beach.” Date Added: 1/17/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=165190 Tue, 17 Jan 2023 05:00:00 GMT false165190 Fifth grade students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School presented an amazing performance of the musical “The Emperor's New Clothes” on Jan. 12. The musical adaptationof the classic fairy tale, written by Hans Christian Andersen, was directed by music teacher Alexandra Gogas. It featured 40 students who worked hard to perfect the performance that was enjoyed by all. Date Added: 1/13/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=165175 Fri, 13 Jan 2023 05:00:00 GMT false165175 The Westhampton Beach High School National Honor Society recently hosted a food drive competition between homerooms and collected more than 500 nonperishable food items that will be donated to Long Island Cares, a charity that helps the hungry and food insecure on Long Island. The winning homeroom received a bagel breakfast for donating an impressive 132 items. Date Added: 1/12/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=165087 Thu, 12 Jan 2023 05:00:00 GMT false165087 When she started drafting a paper on the use of biofuels in society, Westhampton Beach High School junior Jessica Curran had no idea that her words would earn her a finalist position in the environmental science category of the 2022 Stony Brook University Young Investigators Writing Competition. “I was so excited when I found out I was a finalist,” said Curran. Curran wrote her winning paper after approaching her teacher, Dr. Dianna Gobler, about research opportunities. “I was interested in exploring environmental science,” said Curran. The result was her winning 1,000-word analysis of biofuels that will be published in an upcoming issue of the Stony Brook University Young Investigators Review. She is now expanding on her interest in environmental science and working on an Advanced Placement research project in which she is exploring the use of fertilizer made from seaweed in growing soybeans. She also intends to submit a paper for the 2023 Stony Brook University Young Investigators Writing Competition. When not researching, Curran can be found volunteering for the Westhampton Beach Junior Ambulance or working on her Girl Scout Gold Award project. She is also a member of her school’s Environmental Club and Mathletes and serves as captain of the Quiz Bowl team. Date Added: 1/11/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=164987 Wed, 11 Jan 2023 05:00:00 GMT false164987 Congratulations to Westhampton Beach High School senior Jack Schultz who has been named a scholar in the 2023 Regeneron Science Competition. He is one of only 300 students from across the nation to earn the honor from the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science and math competition. Date Added: 1/10/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=165074 Tue, 10 Jan 2023 05:00:00 GMT false165074 As a Westhampton Beach High School sophomore during COVID-19, Morgan Donahoe was interested in participating in a research project. Now, two years later as a senior, her work has been published in the scientific journal BMC Public Health. “I’m very excited,” said Donahoe. “It’s huge that I’ve become a published author before going to college.” The article, titled “Domestic violence calls for police service in five US cities during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020,” was accepted for publication following months of research conducted by Donahoe along with Dr. Jaymie Meliker, a professor in Stony Brook University’s public health program. The pair were linked through Donahoe’s science research teacher, Dr. Dianna Gobler. For her research, Donahoe data mined for months, sending emails and making phone calls to obtain information that she added to a detailed spreadsheet. “It was a lot of work,” said Donahoe, who acquired emergency calls from major cities around the U.S. to see if there was a correlation between COVID-19-related stay-at-home orders, quarantine periods and domestic violence reports. The work has inspired Donahoe’s future plans. She intends to study neuroscience on a pre-med track in college. Donahoe is an accomplished student and member of her school’s National, Math, Foreign Language and Science honor societies. She also participates in her school’s Youth to Youth club and is a volunteer officer for the Westhampton Beach Junior Ambulance. “I am so proud of her,” said Dr. Gobler. Date Added: 1/10/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=164986 Tue, 10 Jan 2023 05:00:00 GMT false164986 Along with his teammates from California, Westhampton Beach High School junior Rowan Tiska earned a first-place designation in a Congressional App Challenge. His team now has the opportunity to attend the #HouseofCode event in Washington, D.C., and demonstrate their application to members of Congress. Tiska and his teammates created their winning app through the Applied Computing Foundation, which connects students and provides opportunities for them to work virtually on programming-related challenges and submit to competitions. Tiska and his team created their winning application, Berrie Basket, after learning that they all lived in a farm community. They decided to develop an app that would help farmers sell their produce online. They worked on their app for over six months, meeting virtually every weekend. They are now looking forward to submitting to other competitions across the nation. Aside from his interest in programming, Tiska is a member of his school’s French Club and student government. He intends to study computer engineering or computer science in college. Date Added: 1/9/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=164976 Mon, 09 Jan 2023 05:00:00 GMT false164976 Westhampton Beach High School senior Kylah Avery has earned a full four-year college scholarship to Northwestern University through the QuestBridge Match Scholarship Program. Avery is one of 17,900 applicants to earn a QuestBridge scholarship, which connects high-achieving high school seniors from low-income backgrounds with full four-year scholarships to 48 of the nation’s best colleges. The accomplished senior is an AP Scholar with Distinction and earned National African American and National Indigenous Recognition awards through the College Board National Recognition Program for excelling on her PSAT and Advanced Placement exams. She will also receive a prestigious AP Capstone designation on her diploma. Avery is a member of her school’s varsity basketball team and Interact Club. Outside of school, she volunteers with the Westhampton Beach Junior Ambulance and the basketball program for the Hampton Youth Athletic League. Of the scholarship, Avery said she is very excited, and the opportunity is allowing her to enjoy her senior year and not worry about financial aid and college applications. “I am looking forward to making new friends,” said Avery, who listed Northwestern as one of her top college choices on the QuestBridge application for its location and science program. She plans to major in biology on a pre-med track. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates Kylah Avery on this outstanding academic accomplishment. Date Added: 1/6/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=164974 Fri, 06 Jan 2023 05:00:00 GMT false164974 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Max Haynia and junior Trevor Hayes for being named to Newsday’s Top 25 Long Island boys indoor track and field athletes list. Max earned the recognition for winning the state public school class B cross-country championship in the fall and as Newsday’s Runner of the Year. Hayes was recognized as a top 1,600 runner. During last season’s state qualifier, he finished the race in 4:32.99. Date Added: 1/4/2023 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=164916 Wed, 04 Jan 2023 05:00:00 GMT false164916 Members of the Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise team had the opportunity to engage with fellow VE teams from 19 school districts across Long Island at a networking event on Dec. 21 at Atlantis Sea Star Ballroom. During the eighth annual event, spearheaded by Westhampton Beach High School VE teacher Amy Demchak, students showcased their VE marketing materials and products and participated in simulated business transactions. The Westhampton Beach team, EcoEats, displayed their virtual company that sells edible spoons, sporks and straws. The students developed the company to combat the enormous amount of waste caused by the disposal of plastic utensils. The Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise program requires students to create a business concept and formulate plans to market it. They compete and present their plans at several events throughout the year. Date Added: 12/21/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=164699 Wed, 21 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT false164699 Student-musicians at Westhampton Beach Middle School showcased their performance skills during a series of winter concerts held the week of Dec. 13. Each performing group entertained audiences with three songs that they have been working on since the start of the school year. Date Added: 12/20/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=164617 Tue, 20 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT false164617 Westhampton Beach Middle School eighth graders in Marcia Figueroa’s Spanish class were excited to receive back pen pal letters from their peers in Barcelona recently. Earlier this year, the students had sent traditional, hand-written letters, sharing information with their pen pals about their hobbies, personality traits and school schedules. Date Added: 12/19/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=164574 Mon, 19 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT false164574 A new school store at Westhampton Beach High School is providing leadership opportunities for both special education and general education students who are working together to manage it. The Cove was founded after special education teacher Alison Hansson visited a similar store at Southampton High School and saw how it allowed students to learn about the various aspects of running a business, including marketing, customer service and everyday logistics. With the support of administrators, members of the high school’s special education program worked with fellow teachers and local businesses to get the store off the ground. The Cove features snacks, drinks, seasonal crafts, T-shirts, personal care products, and muffins and cookies donated by Justin’s Chip Shop. Coffee is made using a coffee maker donated by Hampton Coffee. Math students assisted in pricing the products. Date Added: 12/15/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=164521 Thu, 15 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT false164521 Westhampton Beach High School Key Club and Interact members are making the season bright for families in need and for their peers. Recently, they spent an afternoon wrapping gifts for their annual Adopt-A-Family holiday gift-giving fundraiser. All of the gifts will be donated to families in need. The members of the Key Club also spent time decorating the main lobby of their school to spread holiday cheer. Date Added: 12/14/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=164470 Wed, 14 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT false164470 The Westhampton Beach Middle School Student Council has been busy collecting donations for the Toys for Tots program. They created an online donation drive and set up a donation bin in the front lobby of their school. Additionally, they are raising funds through raffle ticket sales to purchase grocery store gift cards. The gift cards will be donated to families in need through the Church of the Immaculate Conception Food Pantry in Westhampton Beach. Date Added: 12/13/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=164469 Tue, 13 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT false164469 Westhampton Beach High School senior Quinn McCormack was named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Boys Basketball Players list. McCormack, a second-year varsity starter, earned the recognition for averaging 13 points last season. Date Added: 12/9/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=164333 Fri, 09 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT false164333 Date Added: 12/9/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=164364 Fri, 09 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT false164364 Members of the Westhampton Beach Elementary School Student Council have kicked off their annual holiday toy drive. The students created signs and collection boxes with a goal to amass as many toys as possible during the month of December. All of the toys will be donated to the Immaculate Conception Church in Westhampton Beach for distribution to those in need. Pictured from left are student council members Molly Fay, Isabel Ixcoy and Evan Pereyra. Date Added: 12/8/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=164332 Thu, 08 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT false164332 Thirty-six Westhampton Beach Middle School students recently traveled to Albany to participate in the New York State YMCA Youth and Government Conference. The cohort received three Outstanding Bill distinctions, and two students received individual accolades: seventh grader Isabelle McCarthy, who won best overall delegate, and eighth grader Abigail Halloran, who took home a debating award. This is the first time the middle school has participated in the conference. Under the direction of adviser Kelly Massaro, the students prepared for the three-day conference by drafting five bills and related arguments. They presented their bills during the conference as part of a simulation of the state’s democratic process. They also acted as senators and assembly members, debating and voting on mock bills. The students’ bills included reducing New York State’s reliance on fossil fuels, creating a state tax credit for individuals with dependents who take a New York State-approved parenting course, creating a pay-as-you-go garbage management system in the state, mandating consent as part of the curriculum in state schools, and amending Section 35.10.1 of the New York State Penal Law regarding corporal punishment. Date Added: 12/6/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=164249 Tue, 06 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT false164249 Jason Cohen, Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics for the Westhampton Beach School District proudly announces the following students, teams and coaches have received postseason recognition for their participation in the Fall sports program. A total of fifty Westhampton Beach fall student-athletes earned honors as All-State, All -Island, All-County, All-Division, All-League, All-Conference titles in their respective sports. Scholar Team Awards Eight Westhampton Fall Varsity teams earned the NYSPHSAA Scholar Team Award for having an average 90% or better: Team Averages: Boys Golf 96.57 Boys Cross Country 95.59 Girls Cross Country 96.98 Girls Tennis 97.09 Boys Volleyball 95.19 Girls Volleyball 96.17 Girls Soccer 97.26 Football 94.06 Boys Golf Team: Section XI Team Tournament, 2nd Place; Conference IV Individual Champion; Sebonack Golf Challenge Champion All-League: Charlie Beasley, Zach Berger and Owen Jessop All-County: Zach Berger and Owen Jessop All-State: Zach Berger and Owen Jessop (both will compete in the state tournament in June) Girls Tennis Team: Division IV League Winner (three-way tie), Top 30 All-Long Island Team All-League: Julia Greiner, Zoe Grellet Aumont, Taylor Lagattolla and Nikki Lee All-Conference: Ava Borruso, Shannon Killoran, Ana Way and Kylie Way All-County: Melina Pinonzek All-State: Matilda Buchen and Julia Stabile Sportsmanship Award – Julia Greiner USTA Doubles Team Sportsmanship Award: Julia Greiner and Matilda Buchen Boys Soccer Team: Playoff Qualifier All-League: Chance Brindle and Lincoln O’Connell All-Conference: Kade Murphee and Ethan Vogt All-County: Kade Murphee All-Academic: Amner Rosales Girls Soccer Team: Playoff Qualifier All-League: Katie Baker and Lily Strebel All-County: Sarah Gormley and Amanda Shannon All-County, All-Academic: Emily Tully Girls Cross-Country All-League: Caeden Dorn, Jaimie Kelly, Oona Murphy and Gabriella Wendel All-County: Caeden Dorn and Oona Murphy Boys Cross-Country Team: League Champions NYS Class B Champion, Suffolk County Divisional Champion, NY Nike Cross-Country Champion: Maximus Haynia All-League and All-County: Trevor Hayes and Maximus Haynia Girls Volleyball Team: Playoff Qualifier, 2nd round All-League: Sydney Anastasia, Karly Pascale, Christie Stevkouski and Shannon Sweet All-Conference: Reilly Mahon All-County: Lauren Goss Boys Volleyball Team: Playoff Qualifier, 2nd round Division Honorable Mention: Will Jankowski, Casey Sidor and Seth Terry All-County: Declan Kerns All-County Tournament: Declan Kerns and Casey Sidor All-Academic: Daniel Gosnell, Declan Kerns and Gavin Vander Schaaf Football Team: Competed in the Suffolk County Division 3 championship game All-Conference: Gianni Amedemo, Jordyn Brown, Sal Fracapane, Aidan McDermott, Nolan Michalowski, Brody Schaffer and Kevin Smith All-County: Will Gambino, Noah Hebbard and Andrew Mensch All-State: Sal Fracapane and Noah Hebbard All-Academic: Noah Hebbard Date Added: 12/2/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=164177 Fri, 02 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT false164177 Seven Westhampton Beach High School students, Cameron Giordano, Joshua McCarthy, Cody Rogers, Kate Lynch, Luke Albert, Zoe Stokes and Sintia Gregorio, recently participated in the Compassion Without Borders student leadership conference. Sponsored by Suffolk County, the students spent time with peers from neighboring school districts discussing ways to improve their schools and communities. Date Added: 11/28/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=163916 Mon, 28 Nov 2022 05:00:00 GMT false163916 Date Added: 11/28/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=163991 Mon, 28 Nov 2022 05:00:00 GMT false163991 For the second year in a row, the Bellport High School Clippers have won the Suffolk County Division II Championship. The varsity football team clinched the title after defeating Northport on Nov. 11 at Stony Brook University before a crowd of 3,000. The Clippers will now take on Garden City on Nov. 25 at 4:30 p.m. at Hofstra University for the Long Island Championship. Date Added: 11/22/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=163915 Tue, 22 Nov 2022 05:00:00 GMT false163915 Roles were reversed recently at Westhampton Beach Middle School — rather than students being taught by their teachers, teachers were instructed by their students through an Edcamp initiative. The Edcamp took place during a faculty meeting, where teachers had the opportunity to attend three student presentations. A team of sixth graders taught teachers how to use a green screen, seventh graders instructed them on how to use Google stop and play, and eighth graders provided information on podcasts. Date Added: 11/21/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=163832 Mon, 21 Nov 2022 05:00:00 GMT false163832 In recognition of National Diabetes Month, members of the Westhampton Beach Middle School Student Council donated $215 to the American Diabetes Association, which focuses on research, advocacy and educational programs. The students raised the donation by selling customized blue wristbands. Date Added: 11/18/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=163774 Fri, 18 Nov 2022 05:00:00 GMT false163774 As part of a PTA-sponsored program, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students were back in their school’s greenhouse on Nov. 14 and 15. During the session, students worked with farm educator Renato Stafford, owner of Homegrown, to create a compost pile that will break down into soil for use in the greenhouse’s garden beds. Students also learned how to harvest and store various seeds for the future and tried greens that were grown in the greenhouse. “My goal is to teach students to become food advocates and have them try new things and change their eating habits at home,” said Stafford. Date Added: 11/16/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=161746 Wed, 16 Nov 2022 05:00:00 GMT false161746 During a college signing ceremony on Nov. 10, four Westhampton Beach High School senior athletes penned their names to letters of intent. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following student-athletes: Maximus Haynia, West Point, Track Reilly Mahon, Loyola University, Lacrosse Morgan McEntee, Long Island University, Lacrosse Amanda Shannon, Skidmore College, Soccer Date Added: 11/15/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=161688 Tue, 15 Nov 2022 05:00:00 GMT false161688 Westhampton Beach High School marked Red Ribbon Week during the week of Nov. 7 with a variety of anti-drug and alcohol activities. Wearing red bracelets in support of the initiative, students participated in presentations about Leandra’s Law, blood alcohol concentration, driving under the influence, consequences and social hosting laws. They also played a “drug-free bingo” game in their health classes and adorned cars in the school’s parking lot with red ribbons and drug-free messages. Serving as a reminder to not drink and drive was a crashed car in front of the school circled by red pinwheels. Students also decorated the fence along their school with a drug-free message. Date Added: 11/11/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=161588 Fri, 11 Nov 2022 05:00:00 GMT false161588 Four new members were inducted into the Westhampton Beach High School National Honor Society during a ceremony on Nov. 8. The new members were inducted in recognition of their demonstrated excellence in service, character, scholarship and leadership. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Isabella Blanco, Jack Kelly, Ashton Lundborg and Dylan Specht. Date Added: 11/10/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=161587 Thu, 10 Nov 2022 05:00:00 GMT false161587 Date Added: 11/4/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=160439 Fri, 04 Nov 2022 04:00:00 GMT false160439 Westhampton Beach Middle School sixth graders in Eric Buhl’s class recently learned to determine how an arch bridge handles a load of weight. They studied the components of the bridge’s structure and how it is able to disperse, hold and maintain a load of weight. Date Added: 11/2/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=160293 Wed, 02 Nov 2022 04:00:00 GMT false160293 Westhampton Beach Middle School students marked October as Bullying Prevention Month through a variety of activities. Students signed a “No Place for Hate” school pledge and wore blue on Fridays to show that they are standing up against bullying. They also created a positive message popup table during lunch, where over 150 positive messages were written and shared across grade levels. Additionally, physical education teacher Jeffrey Doroski inspired students to participate in an “Every Step Matters” initiative, through which students identified the best qualities about themselves and thought of ways to use those qualities to help others and stop bullying. They also created paper "footprints" with encouraging messages that are displayed in the hallway leading to the school’s gym and competed to take as many steps as possible to win blue water bottles. Date Added: 11/1/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=160294 Tue, 01 Nov 2022 04:00:00 GMT false160294 As part of Fire Prevention Week, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students participated in fire safety lessons with members of the Westhampton Beach Fire Department. Students learned about general fire safety, smoke alarms and fire extinguishers and had an opportunity to practice calling 911 and jumping out the window of the fire department’s smoke house simulator. Date Added: 10/21/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=159922 Fri, 21 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT false159922 To mark Hispanic Heritage Month, Westhampton Beach Middle School students in Nicole Spatz’s and Lauren O'Hearn's ENL classes spent time with their teachers, classmates and school librarian Yvonne Perez to research South American countries. The students learned about significant individuals, landmarks, flags, history and food. They also created maps, marked famous landmarks and used Google Earth to visit their places of choice. The weeklong research project culminated with the students creating “virtual bitmoji rooms” where they provided links to articles, information and photos to share their new knowledge with others. “It was a week to remember,” said Spatz. “Lots of learning and lots of fun.” Date Added: 10/20/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=159912 Thu, 20 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT false159912 Westhampton Beach High School is excited to present its production of “The Man Who Came to Dinner” on Friday, Nov. 4 and Saturday, Nov. 5 at 7:30 p.m., and on Sunday, Nov. 6 at 2 p.m. Tickets are free. The fall comedy, written by Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman, will feature 17 high school cast members, as well as a special appearance by Westhampton Beach Elementary School students. “The production calls for a boys’ choir, and I loved the idea of including students across different buildings,” said director Kimet Speed. Speed said the production was selected because of its large cast that allows for more student participation and for being “a play that might have some name recognition in the community.” Date Added: 10/19/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=159915 Wed, 19 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT false159915 The Westhampton Beach School District is pleased to announce that its bond proposal has passed by a vote of 274 to 36. The District extends its sincere thanks to the community for their support. The District will now begin work to bring the projects listed in the bond to fruition. El Distrito Escolar de Westhampton Beach tiene el placer de anunciar que el propuesto bono ha pasado por un voto de 274 a 36. El Distrito extiende su agradecimiento a la comunidad por su apoyo. El Distrito va a comenzar el trabajo para realizar los proyectos en el bono. Date Added: 10/19/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=159928 Wed, 19 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT false159928 Westhampton Beach Middle School seventh graders in Camille Pedersen’s class are researching and designing the perfect school. The students are exploring color theory, curriculum, optimal learning hours and many other aspects of education. They also interviewed Anthony Martino, head of buildings, grounds and security. Martino explained his job responsibilities and took students on a trip to the boiler room to see how their school is heated during the colder months. Date Added: 10/18/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=159859 Tue, 18 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT false159859 To promote a love of reading among Westhampton Beach Middle School sixth grade students, reading teacher Camille Pedersen and school librarian Yvonne Perez teamed up to create a two-day book tasting and Starbooks event in the library. During the book tasting, students were invited to “Perezerseni's Café,” where they sat at decorated library tables and given a menu that offered different literary genres for them to try, or taste.” “Students sampled different books and had the opportunity to check out books that they wanted to continue reading,” said Pedersen. The following day, the library was transformed into a “Starbooks,” where students enjoyed warm drinks and had a choice to continue reading the books they previously selected or play word games. Date Added: 10/17/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=159838 Mon, 17 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT false159838 The Westhampton School District Board of Education has proposed a bond referendum aimed at renovating aging building infrastructure and making other improvements to district facilities based on recommendations from the facilities committee. The bond vote is scheduled via paper ballot for Oct. 19, from 7 a.m.–9 p.m., in the Westhampton Beach High School Large Group Instruction Room. More information may be found by clicking here. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=159746 Thu, 13 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT false159746 Two Westhampton Beach High School seniors have accomplished what very few students have — they earned a perfect score on the ACT college entrance exam. Megan Sitzmann and Gavin Vander Schaaf are among less than 0.5% of ACT test takers to score a perfect 36 on the multiple-choice test. The current average score is 21. Both Sitzmann and Vander Schaaf are impressive students. Vander Schaaf was recently recognized as a semifinalist in the 2023 National Merit Scholarship Program as a result of his outstanding scores on the qualifying exam. He is also an AP Scholar with Distinction, co-president of his school’s Interact Club, a member of his school’s Youth to Youth executive board and a singer in the chamber choir. He intends to study secondary education in college. Sitzmann is an AP Scholar with Distinction and a member of her school’s National Honor Society and Tri-M Music Honor Society. She is vice president of her school’s chamber singers and serves as captain of the Westhampton Beach Junior Ambulance. She plans to study biology on a pre-med track in college. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates Sitzmann and Vander Schaaf on this outstanding achievement. Date Added: 10/11/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=159631 Tue, 11 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT false159631 For their hard work, determination and dedication to academics, seven Westhampton Beach High School students have earned New York State Scholarships for Academic Excellence. The students qualified for the scholarships based on their exceptional GPAs and Regents test scores. The scholarships can be used toward a New York State institution of higher education. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates students Daniel Gosnell, Julia Greiner, McKenna Heaney, Samantha Schaumloffel, Megan Sitzmann, Emily Tully and Gavin Vander Schaaf on this accomplishment. Date Added: 10/10/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=159610 Mon, 10 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT false159610 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates sophomore Matilda Buchen and junior Julia Stabile for being named to Newsday’s top 30 Long Island girls tennis players list. Matilda, a singles player, was selected for helping the Hurricanes earn a spot in the Suffolk large school final in 2021 and winning a league singles title. Julia earned recognition as a 2021 Newsday All-Long Island selection after teaming with her sister to win the Suffolk County individual doubles championship. She is on a quest to win the county singles title this season. Date Added: 10/7/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=159558 Fri, 07 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT false159558 Westhampton Beach High School senior Gavin Vander Schaaf has been recognized as a semifinalist in the 2023 National Merit Scholarship Program as a result of his outstanding scores on the qualifying exam. Vander Schaaf is now among 16,000 students across the nation competing for $28 million in scholarships. To earn the title, he placed among the top students who took the 2021 PSAT. Vander Schaaf is a dedicated student who participates in a number of extracurriculars. He is an AP Scholar with Distinction, co-president of his school’s Interact Club, a member of his school’s Youth to Youth executive board and a singer in the chamber choir. Outside of school, he volunteers for the nonprofit Second Serve organization, for which he acts as the national director of human resources. He is also senior leader for the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards program. He intends to study secondary education in college. Of his score, he said, “I studied hard and wanted to do my best, but I didn’t expect to get to such a high level.” The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates Vander Schaaf on this notable achievement. Date Added: 10/6/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=159524 Thu, 06 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT false159524 Westhampton Beach High School senior Dresden Dunn gained valuable skills over the summer while serving as an intern with the Anti-Defamation League. Dunn was one of 10 students from across the country who was accepted for the internship following an application and interview process. “I am very grateful that I was given this opportunity to work in a professional setting and focus on the issues of equality while being able to make a difference nationally,” said Dunn. “It was an honor to be a part of this program.” Throughout the summer, Dunn worked four days a week virtually alongside Kira Simon, national director of education, curriculum and training at the ADL, and Simon’s colleagues in the New York State Education Department. During that time, Dunn created a database for peer training workshop scenarios to be used within school districts, as well as social media pages for use on the ADL’s education Instagram page. She also participated in webinars, trainings and workshops hosted by various professionals from around the world. Dunn said she became interested in the opportunity after participating in her school’s Equity Committee and No Place for Hate program. She intends to use what she learned over the summer as she studies elementary education in college. Dunn is also a member of her school’s National Honor Society and volunteers for East End Hospice’s Camp Good Grief. Date Added: 10/5/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=159527 Wed, 05 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT false159527 Westhampton Beach High School seniors Reilly Atkinson, Julia Greiner and McKenna Heaney have been recognized as Commended Students in the 2023 National Merit Scholarship Program as a result of their outstanding scores on the qualifying exam. The seniors are among 34,000 students throughout the nation to earn the distinction and be recognized for their “exceptional academic promise.” To earn the title, they placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2023 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2021 PSAT. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the seniors on this achievement. Date Added: 10/4/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=159521 Tue, 04 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT false159521 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students raised more than $20,000 for their school through their annual Hurricane Fun Run, held Sept. 30. As part of the PTA-sponsored event, students gathered pledges to run laps on the high school football field. Leading up to the event, they participated in spirit days. All of the funds raised will go directly toward cultural and academic enrichment programs at the elementary school. Date Added: 10/3/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=159518 Mon, 03 Oct 2022 04:00:00 GMT false159518 Date Added: 9/30/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=159447 Fri, 30 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT false159447 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Declan Kerns and Seth Terry for being named to Newsday’s top 50 Long Island boys volleyball players list. Declan was recognized for his skills in totaling 100 kills and 55 blocks last season. Terry earned recognition for helping to set the tone after recording 130 digs and 70 kills in 2021. Date Added: 9/29/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=159387 Thu, 29 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT false159387 Students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School have been celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month through a wide variety of engaging activities that were organized by the school’s equity committee. Each day during the month, students are sharing Spanish phrases and biographies of famous Latinos and Latinas over the school’s public address system and taking part in daily activities and challenges on a shared interactive digital calendar that can be accessed in their classrooms. Students have also been reading books and watching videos on the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month and the different cultures and traditions within Spanish-speaking countries. Additionally, classes are working together to research and create traditional Hispanic recipes that will be compiled into a schoolwide cookbook. Date Added: 9/27/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=157445 Wed, 28 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT false157445 Hurricane pride was in the air as the Westhampton Beach School District celebrated homecoming during the week of Sept. 19. The spirit week festivities included thematic days leading up to the annual pep rally and homecoming football game, held under the lights on Sept. 23. During the game, the Westhampton Beach Hurricanes took on the East Hampton Bonackers. The crowd cheered as the home team claimed victory with a final score of 49-13. Date Added: 9/27/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=157446 Tue, 27 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT false157446 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates sophomore Owen Jessop and freshman Zach Berger for being named to Newsday’s top 25 Long Island boys golfers list. Owen was recognized for tying for sixth place as a freshman in the Suffolk County individual tournament with a 157. Zach earned recognition for tying for 17th place at the Suffolk County championship with a 162 as an eighth grader. Date Added: 9/22/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=157270 Thu, 22 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT false157270 Westhampton Beach High School senior Jack Schultz and Class of 2022 alumnus Griffin Scheurer recently co-wrote a paper that was published in a respectable scientific journal, while senior Carter Padavan had an article printed in a popular automotive magazine. Scheurer, who studies animal sciences at Arizona State College, paired up with Schultz to begin working on their paper seven months prior to it being accepted and published by MethodsX. According to the website www.sciencedirect.com, MethodsX is “a multidisciplinary, open access, peer-reviewed journal which publishes detailed but digestible articles that describe methodological advances.” The duo’s paper lays out methodology for dissolution of sediment and calcareous deposits for paleontological specimen collection and identification. They were inspired to conduct research and write the paper following dinosaur dig trips they took to Wyoming and Montana as part of the Westhampton Beach School District’s paleontology program. “It’s pretty incredible to be published as a high school student,” said Schultz. “It was interesting to learn about the publication process.” Aside from his dinosaur fossil research, Schultz, who aims to study molecular biochemistry in college, is also working with leading scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory as part of the lab’s Student Partnerships for Advanced Research and Knowledge program. His research focuses on the elemental analysis of kelp to see if climate change has an effect on higher carbon dioxide levels. Also performing research over the summer was Padavan, whose article, “Will Electric Vehicles Affect Independent Auto Body and Repair Shops,” was published in the September issue of the Long Island Auto Body Repairmen’s Association. Padavan said his article was inspired by his research on electric cars that he conducted for an AP Research class that he took as a junior. “I was very interested in learning more about electric vehicles,” he said. Padavan, who said he was thrilled to be published, intends to continue to study electric vehicles and apply his knowledge in college, where he plans to study business and technology. When not conducting research, Padavan participates in his school’s Youth to Youth Club. Date Added: 9/21/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=157219 Wed, 21 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT false157219 In recognition of their exceptional achievement on national AP exams, 39 Westhampton Beach High School students have been designated as Advanced Placement Scholars. In total, 18 students were named AP Scholars, three earned the recognition of AP Scholar with Honor and 18 were named AP Scholars with Distinction. To earn Scholar recognition, students are required to score a 3 or higher on three or more AP exams; for Scholar with Honor, they must earn a 3.25 on all AP exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of those exams; and for Scholar with Distinction, they must receive an average score of 3.5 on all AP exams and grades of 4 or higher on five or more of those exams. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following students: AP Scholars Abigail Barnabee, Isabella Blanco, Chance Brindle, Christian Brown, Edgar Castro, Victor Castro, Tor Christensen, Emma Davis, Emily Galovic, Evan Halloran, Theresa LoPresti, Ashton Lundborg, Reilly Mahon, Shea Meade, Samantha O’Connor, Carter Padavan, Dylan Specht and Ethan Vogt AP Scholars with Honor Kristina Cavaliere, Maximus Haynia and Jack Kelly AP Scholars with Distinction Kylah Avery, Matthew Biondi, James Buono, Morgan Donahoe, Diana Espana, Daniel Gosnell, Julia Greiner, Liam Greiner, McKenna Heaney, Mina Jaromy, Samantha Schaumloffel, Jack Schultz, Amanda Shannon, Megan Sitzmann, Christie Stevkovski, Emily Tully, Gavin VanderSchaaf and Anabel Velloso Date Added: 9/20/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=157199 Tue, 20 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT false157199 Two Westhampton Beach High school seniors have received prestigious musical designations. Hunter Montgomery is one of 55 students from across New York to be named an All-National musician by the National Association for Music Education, while Megan Sitzmann earned All-State designation from the New York State School Music Association. The students, both vocalists, earned the honors based on their respective NYSSMA adjudications last spring. As an All-National musician, Montgomery, a bass, will perform in the NAfME All-National Mixed Choir. Sitzmann will serve as an alternate alto in the All-State Mixed Chorus. Both students also perform in their school’s chorus, chamber singers and band, for which Montgomery performs on percussion and bass and Sitzmann plays the trumpet. “This has been a goal of mine since the fourth grade,” Montgomery said of his designation. “I am very proud of myself.” Sitzmann said she is looking forward to the experience of performing on the state level and meeting new people. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to these talented musicians. Date Added: 9/19/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=157203 Mon, 19 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT false157203 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Kade Murphree for being named to Newsday’s top 100 Long Island boys soccer players list. Murphree was recognized for serving as a captain of his team and moving up from defense this season to help contribute on both sides. According to his coach, Cody Hoyt, the third-year starter lends a “strong physical presence on the ground and in the air” and he’s “skilled with the ball at his feet and [has] great vision on the field.” Date Added: 9/16/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=157202 Fri, 16 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT false157202 Two Westhampton Beach High School students have earned national recognition through the College Board National Recognition Program, which colleges use to identify academically competitive, underrepresented students. Kylah Avery earned National African American and National Indigenous Recognition awards, and Meghan Kelly earned a National Hispanic Recognition Award. To earn the recognition, the students were required to hold a grade point average of 3.5 or higher, excel on the PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10 exams, or earn a score of 3 or higher on two or more AP exams. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Avery and Kelly for their hard work and dedication to academics. Date Added: 9/15/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=157186 Thu, 15 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT false157186 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Max Haynia and junior Trevor Hayes for being named to Newsday’s top 25 Long Island boys cross country runners list. Haynia was recognized for being the fastest Class B runner in the state after placing seventh in 16:26.9 at the public school championships at Chenango Valley. Haynia was also second in Class B at both the Suffolk division championships and state qualifier at Sunken Meadow State Park. Hayes was named for running 16:46.33 at the Suffolk state qualifier at Sunken Meadow, and his 16:49.3 run at the state public school championships at Chenango Valley earned him 15th place in Class B. Date Added: 9/14/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=157153 Wed, 14 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT false157153 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Amanda Shannon, who was named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Girls Soccer Players list. Shannon was recognized as a four-year starter who doesn’t shy away from taking on the opposing team’s top player. She also directs the field from the back and contributes on the offensive end as needed. Date Added: 9/9/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=157059 Fri, 09 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT false157059 Six Westhampton Beach School District staff members were officially inducted into the district’s Quarter Century Club for dedicating 25 consecutive years of service to the district. They were each presented with certificates during the district’s annual Superintendent’s Conference Day. The district extends its sincere thanks to (from left) Robert Mirro, Christopher Irish, Karen Aleksandrowicz, Maryann Higgins, Bryan Schaumloffel and Kathleen Walsh for their continued commitment to the district. Date Added: 9/6/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=156939 Tue, 06 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT false156939 Westhampton Beach High School junior William Gambino and senior Noah Hebberd were recently named to Newsday’s Top 100 High School Football Players for 2022. Gambino, a quarterback, was recognized for throwing for 1,050 yards and making 10 touchdowns in just four full games as a sophomore. Hebberd, an offensive guard and defensive tackle, earned his accolades for recording five sacks last season while imposing his will on the offensive line. The district congratulates both varsity players on this achievement. Date Added: 9/2/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=156868 Fri, 02 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT false156868 Members of the Westhampton Beach High School’s National Honor Society volunteered their time on Aug. 30 to assist in welcoming and acclimating incoming freshmen during a student orientation session. The annual event allows freshmen to get to know their school better before the first day. Date Added: 9/1/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=156874 Thu, 01 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT false156874 Students across the Westhampton Beach Union Free School District eagerly arrived back at school for the 2022-2023 school year on Sept. 1. As they entered school, students were greeted by beaming teachers and administrators who helped escort them into their respective classrooms. Once inside, they quickly became acquainted with their new teachers, routines and schedules. “We are very much looking forward to this new school year,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. “We expect it will be filled with learning, growth, and great experiences.” Date Added: 9/1/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=156883 Thu, 01 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT false156883 Date Added: 9/1/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=156303 Thu, 01 Sep 2022 04:00:00 GMT false156303 To keep parents and the community informed during the school year, the Westhampton Beach School has several methods of communication available. Please be sure to frequently check the district’s website and follow us on social media for updates. Website: https://whbschools.org/ Instagram: @WHBSchools Facebook: @Westhampton Beach School District Date ADded: 8/31/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=156836 Wed, 31 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT false156836 Incoming Westhampton Beach Middle School sixth and seventh grade students participated in a back-to-school orientation on Aug. 30. The students were able to acclimate themselves to their school and practice opening their lockers. Date Added: 8/30/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=156822 Tue, 30 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT false156822 Seven Westhampton Beach Elementary and Middle School students earned ribbons as part of the Westhampton Beach Historical Society summer exhibit titled, The Creative Energy of Our Community: Works of Artists and Artisans Past and Present. The winning works were selected by two Westhampton Beach High School teachers from a pool of submissions provided by teachers at Westhampton Beach, Raynor Country Day School and Remsenburg-Speonk Elementary School. The exhibit is located at the Tuthill House Museum, 101 Mill Road, and can be viewed on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Sept. 10. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following winners: Elementary School First Place: Briana Mendez Second Place: Logan Rice Third Place: Frankie DiBiaso and Anayeli Orta Hernandez Middle School First Place: Leandro Esquivel-Aguilar Second Place: Cameron Hipp Third Place: Sophia Paladino Date Added: 8/23/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=156717 Tue, 23 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT false156717 Community vote planned for Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2022 During the Aug. 15 meeting of the Westhampton Beach Board of Education, the Board adopted a resolution to submit a bond proposition to the voters of the district on Oct. 19. The board voted unanimously to move forward with the bond proposal to improve district facilities based on recommendations from the facilities committee. The proposed project focuses on necessary infrastructure upgrades, instructional updates, and health and safety improvements throughout the district’s three school buildings and the athletic complex. If approved, the proposed $33 million project would be at no additional net cost to the taxpayers due to expiring debt from a previously approved bond. The proposed facility improvements would help preserve the integrity of the school buildings, address overdue repairs, improve instructional resources for all and upgrade athletic facilities. Among the projects included are: removal of the elementary school portable, roof replacement at all buildings, HVAC upgrades, restroom renovations, renovation of the high school library, window replacement, and improvements of the athletic complex, including replacement of the turf and running track, the bleachers, press box and field house. The bond vote is scheduled via paper ballot for Oct. 19, from 7 a.m. – 9 p.m., in the Westhampton Beach High School Large Group Instruction Room. More information on the projects will be made available through the district’s website and via a voter guide mailed to all community residents. Date Added: 8/19/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=156689 Fri, 19 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT false156689 The New York State Public High School Athletic Association has named Westhampton Beach High School a Scholar-Athlete School of Excellence for the 2021-22 school year. To earn this recognition, 75% of the school’s varsity teams were required to hold a GPA above 90%. Westhampton is among 148 schools to receive this noteworthy designation. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates its varsity teams on an outstanding job. Date Added: 8/9/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=156525 Tue, 09 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT false156525 Over 300 Westhampton Beach students are spending their summer mornings learning and playing as part of the district’s summer recreation and academy program, which runs through the month of July. During the four-week program, held at Westhampton Beach Elementary School, students in grades K-8 participate in a wide variety of activities, including swimming, science, computers, crafts and sports. The summer program also provides an opportunity for incoming kindergartners to get acquainted with their new school and for students to work on their academics through extended learning opportunities. High school students volunteer to assist with the program. Date Added: 7/18/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=156260 Sat, 16 Jul 2022 04:00:00 GMT false156260 The Westhampton Beach School District is currently hiring for part-time food service and monitor positions, as well as substitutes for all areas. To find out more, visit: https://whbschools.org/district/employment Date Added: 7/15/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=156250 Fri, 15 Jul 2022 04:00:00 GMT false156250 The Westhampton Beach School District is pleased to announce that our Universal Pre-Kindergarten program, which is funded by a grant from the New York State Department of Education, has been increased from half-day to a full-day (5 hour) program. There are still a few spots available. Please visit our website, www.whbschools.org, choose the Elementary School, Parents/Students, then click on the registration tab, and fill out an application for the Universal Pre-Kindergarten program. Date Added: 7/13/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=156222 Wed, 13 Jul 2022 04:00:00 GMT false156222 Date Added: 6/29/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=156019 Wed, 29 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT false156019 The Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2022 celebrated an academic milestone as they received their diplomas on June 24 at the school’s 114th commencement exercises. During the evening ceremony, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst and High School Principal Christopher Herr congratulated the students on their academic, athletic and extracurricular accomplishments and their community service contributions. Among those who took the podium were valedictorian Gavin Ehlers and salutatorian Madison Quinn. In speaking about the COVID-19 pandemic, Ehlers said, “We faced countless challenges, but now it’s time to take all that we learned and begin to experience our first taste of true independence. There is no need to fear what’s ahead of us.” Quinn shared what she learned during high school, including how to handle unexpected changes. “No matter what you are faced with,” she said, “I urge you to look at each change or challenge as a surprise and welcome the new possibilities it presents to you.” Senior class historian James Daniels, who will attend Princeton University, rounded out the celebration by speaking of class memories and achievements. In closing, the symphonic choir entertained with a performance of “We Are All in This Together.” After accepting their diplomas and tossing their caps, the graduates joined a final procession off the football field toward their next chapter of success. Date Added: 6/28/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=156018 Tue, 28 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT false156018 Donning white and green caps and gowns, members of the Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2022 proudly marched through the halls of their former elementary school on June 21, both to reminisce about their early school days and to provide inspiration to current students. As they took the traditional senior walk, the elementary students cheered, clapped and held up signs of congratulations. Date Added: 6/22/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=155783 Wed, 22 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT false155783 The Class of 2022 Graduation ceremony will be livestreamed on June 24 at 6 pm. To watch, visit, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMC8iCCj6hU&feature=youtu.be Date Added: 6/22/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=155808 Wed, 22 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT false155808 Eleven Westhampton Beach High School AP Spanish students recently earned the AP with WE Service Recognition from the College Board this year. To earn the award, the students were required to investigate and learn about a service topic related to their Advanced Placement course, plan and complete a service project and pass their AP exam. For their project, the students worked closely with peers and community members to investigate and identify issues and possible solutions related to global warming and climate change. Before developing their action plan in two languages, the students evaluated and analyzed existing programs and identified areas of need. “The final results were a great success,” said teacher Denizzie Kearns. Students raised awareness about renewable energy, food waste and consequences of deforestation. In addition, they raised money for the future implementation of a windmill at Westhampton Beach Elementary School, donated books to the Salvation Army and a local library, and collected and transported leftover food from their school’s cafeteria to Maureen’s Haven. “This was a wonderful and empowering opportunity for students to be engaged in service learning and experience the course content and skills through real-world civic engagement,” said Kearns. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the students on this impressive achievement. Date Added: 6/21/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=152665 Tue, 21 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT false152665 Third grade students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School were all smiles on June 10 when they were introduced to two friendly llamas from the Suffolk County Farm and Education Center. Before giving the students an opportunity to walk the llamas around the school’s grounds, educators from the center spoke to them about llama habitats, behavior and usefulness. Pictured is third grader Mary Kate Breen with a representative from the center. Date Added: 6/20/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=152669 Mon, 20 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT false152669 Date Added: 6/17/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=152842 Fri, 17 Jun 2022 05:00:00 GMT false152842 Westhampton Beach High School valedictorian Gavin Ehlers was among those honored at The Suffolk County School Superintendents Association’s 28th annual Valedictorians Luncheon at Villa Lombardi’s in Holbrook. The tradition, established by SCSSA, honored the enviable accomplishments of the county’s highest-achieving graduates from the Class of 2022 and was attended by school district superintendents, high school principals, valedictorians and their parents. SCSSA President Dr. Yiendhy Farrelly noted that the honored valedictorians faced countless challenges and programmatic and instructional changes beyond their control, but still maintained their focus, determination and drive. “You clearly recognize that how you respond to life’s challenges and difficult paths is within your control,” Dr. Farrelly said. Guest speaker Dr. Errol D. Toulon Jr., Suffolk County’s 67th sheriff and the county’s first African American to be elected to a nonjudicial countywide office, described the valedictorians as innovative and nimble when it comes to change. He also urged the students not to compare themselves on social media, pointing out that comparison is the thief of joy. The valedictorians were then called up onto the stage one-by-one by SCSSA President-Elect James Polansky and were accompanied by their district’s superintendent of schools and high school principal to receive a commemorative plaque. To the valedictorians, Mr. Polansky acknowledged that good things occur around them every day and that it is easy to focus on the negative. “You represent countless rays of hope and promise that the next generation will, indeed, make its mark in a tremendously positive manner as you pursue your interests and strive to reach your goals,” Mr. Polansky said. Date Added: 6/17/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=152605 Fri, 17 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT false152605 Fifth grade students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School recently enjoyed an educational field trip to Philadelphia. They explored the city’s vast history at sites such as the National Constitution Center and Elfreth’s Alley, where the exhibits correlated to the social studies curriculum they have been studying all year. Date Added: 6/16/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=152535 Thu, 16 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT false152535 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students showcased their artistic abilities at their school’s annual art show on June 7. During the event, parents and family members were invited to peruse the school’s hallways, which were adorned by the colorful artwork of the talented students in grades K-5. Date Added: 6/15/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=152533 Wed, 15 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT false152533 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students recently participated in a meet and greet with their school’s new school resource officers, Mark Yakabowski of the Westhampton Beach Village Police and Tony Vecchio of the Southampton Police Department. During the event, the officers visited each classroom, introduced themselves, and answered a myriad of questions from students about their jobs, favorite foods, favorite colors and more. Date Added: 6/14/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=152534 Tue, 14 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT false152534 The Westhampton Beach School District Board of Education has appointed Jason Cohen as its new director of health, physical education and athletics, effective July 5, and Marykate Hill as the new elementary and middle school assistant principal, effective July 1. “We are pleased to announce these two new appointments,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. “They both bring a wealth of experience to our district, and we look forward to welcoming them into our Hurricane family.” Cohen, of West Islip, has served as the assistant principal of Islip Middle School since 2019. Prior to this role, he worked in the Islip School District as a physical education teacher, athletic trainer and summer administrator. Earlier in his career, he was an athletic trainer in the South Huntington Union Free School District, an assistant athletic trainer at Molloy College and a student athletic trainer at Hofstra University, where he also earned the school’s Athletic Trainer of the Year award. Cohen holds a Bachelor of Science in athletic training from Hofstra University, a Master of Arts in physical education from Adelphi University and an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Educational Leadership from Stony Brook University. “I am thrilled and honored to be joining the Westhampton Beach family as the new director of health, physical education and athletics,” Cohen said. “I find this opportunity so remarkable because Westhampton Beach is a small, tight-knit community, rich in history and tradition, that places strong emphasis on academic and athletic excellence. Being able to work with educators, coaches, staff, parents and students with the unified goal of continued growth and success is very exciting.” Hill, of Islip Terrace, joins Westhampton Beach from the Baldwin Union Free School District, where she has been an ENL and special education teacher at Baldwin Middle School since 2015. She also served as a leadership intern at the building and district levels in Baldwin during the last two years. She previously worked as a special education teacher at P.S. 048 PO Michael J. Buczek and at St. Spyridon Parochial School, both in Manhattan. Hill holds a Bachelor of Science in education from SUNY Cortland, a Master of Science/TESOL from Touro College, and advanced certification in school building and school district leadership from the New York Institute of Technology. “I am beyond excited for my appointment as the district’s new assistant principal,” Hill said. “Great schools are a result of great teachers, and I look forward to collaborating with the administrative team and teachers at both the elementary and middle school.” She added, “The Westhampton Beach School District is truly a special place to be, and I am so thankful to have the opportunity to be here.” Date Added: 6/14/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=152702 Tue, 14 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT false152702 Westhampton Beach High School senior Geoff Arrasatte has been recognized by the National Football Foundation with a scholar athlete award. The quarterback earned the accolade for his dedication to academics and football. Arrasatte, who has played football since the age of 6, has been a member of his school’s varsity football team for the past four years and holds All-Division honors in the sport. He is also a member of his school’s varsity lacrosse team. Off the field, Arrasatte is a member of his school’s student government and serves as senior class treasurer. He plans to attend High Point University in the fall to study international business. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates Arrasatte on this notable achievement. Date Added: 6/13/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=152456 Mon, 13 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT false152456 Westhampton Beach High School seniors Geoff Arrasatte and Rose Hayes have been recognized with Top Scholar Athlete awards from the Long Island Press and Catholic Health. The students earned the recognition for their dedication to academics and athletics. Arrasatte is a member of his school’s football and lacrosse teams and holds All- Division honors for football. When not on the field, he serves in his school’s student government and as senior class treasurer. He plans to attend High Point University in the fall to study international business. Hayes is an All-American singles tennis player and holds several Suffolk County and Division Champion titles in the sport. Additionally, she is an All-County and All-Division track runner and an All-County cross-country runner. She will attend Gonzaga University in the fall, where she will play tennis for the Division I school and study nursing with a minor in Spanish. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates both students on this impressive achievement. Date Added: 6/10/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=152454 Fri, 10 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT false152454 During a candle-lighting ceremony on June 1, 48 Westhampton Beach High School juniors were inducted into the National Honor Society, one of the oldest and most prestigious national organizations for students. Additionally, its senior members were recognized. To be eligible for membership, the students were required to maintain a weighted GPA of 92 or better, demonstrate the standards of leadership, service, citizenship and character, and complete 30 hours of community service. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following inductees: Sydney Anastasia, Kylah Avery, Abigail Barnabee, Matthew Biondi, Miller Brennan, Chance Brindle, James Buono, Kristina Cavaliere, Emma Davis, Morgan Donahoe, Dresden Dunn, Lauren Emiddio, Diana Espana, Delaney Fay, Emily Galovic, Daniel Gosnell, Lauren Goss, Julia Greiner, Liam Greiner, Evan Halloran, Maximus Haynia, McKenna Heaney, Noah Hebberd, Mina Jaromy, Declan Kerns, Ryan Knieriemen, Daria Krzywda, Theresa LoPresti, Reilly Mahon, Taylor McNamara, Makayla Messina, Ryleigh Morton-Boone, Diana Muharemovic, Francis Murphree, Christopher Nuzzi, Samantha O’Connor, Monica Osorio, Carter Padavan, Laurette Schaumloffel, Samantha Schaumloffel, Jack Schultz, Sarah Sganga, Amanda Shannon, Megan Sitzmann, Christie Stevkovski, Emily Tully, Gavin Vander Schaaf and Ethan Vogt. Date Added: 6/9/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=152453 Thu, 09 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT false152453 Westhampton Beach High School students attended the 20th annual Teeny Awards ceremony at Riverhead High School on June 5. The Teeny Awards program recognizes student talent across 20 East End school districts. The district congratulates the following for being nominated: Lead Male in a Play Carter Cline in the role of Limbic for “Brainstorm” Lead Female in a Musical Alicia Rignola in the role of Lady of the Lake for “Spamalot” Supporting Female in a Musical Rosemari Marotta in the role of Sir Lancelot for “Spamalot” Outstanding Performer in a Play or Musical Maya Buldoc in the role of French Taunter for Spamalot Outstanding Poster & Playbill Design Kate Pomroy for “Brainstorm” Dance Captains Rosemari Marotta, Spamalot Lighting Designers, Assistants & Crew Ryan Antovel, Spamalot Sierra Davidson, Brainstorm Graelyn Lorusso, Spamalot Jackie Massey, Brainstorm and Spamalot Griffin Neubauer, Brainstorm and Spamalot Set Design and Construction Tia-Beth Elliot, Spamalot Devin Mench, Spamalot Phoebe Terry, Spamalot Set Designers, Assistants & Crew Edward Barr-Forget, Brainstorm and Spamalot Graelyn Lorusso, Spamalot Griffin Neubauer, Spamalot Sarah Tedesco, Spamalot Stage Managers & Assistant Stage Managers Ginger Hendrickson, Spamalot” Paulina Herrera, Spamalot Rosemari Marotta, Brainstorm, Jackie Massey, Brainstorm, Kaitlynn Mazurkiewicz, Spamalot Rachael Terry, Brainstorm and Spamalot Stage Crew Alex Baryk, Spamalot Sierra Davidson, Spamalot Celeste Franks, Spamalot Ginger Hendrickson, Brainstorm Carlos Kestler, Spamalot Elisabeth Lindahl, Brainstorm and Spamalot Graelyn Lorusso, Brainstorm Kaitlynn Mazurkiewicz, Brainstorm Christopher Volkman, Spamalot Sofia Zhiminaicela, Spamalot Student Writers Rebecca Haefeli, Brainstorm Mia Pazera, Brainstorm Meg Pomroy, Brainstorm Pit Orchestra Students Marlon Alvarez, Clarinet Lilah Caputo, Clarinet Julia Greiner, Flute Liam Greiner, Timpani/Auxiliary Percussion Ali Jedlicka, Trombone Ava Kuklis, Clarinet Angelina LeMaire, Clarinet Sam Libutti, Alto Saxophone Joseph Litjens, Trombone Mylie McCabe, Bass Clarinet Yulianna Mendez Yaxon, Flute/Piccolo Ella Pinonzek, Flute Daniel Stark, Drums Date Added: 6/8/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=152423 Wed, 08 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT false152423 Senator Anthony Palumbo and Assemblyman Fred Thiele paid tribute to Class of 2022 valedictorians and salutatorians from six East End schools during an annual ceremony at Hampton Bays High School on June 6. Among them, Westhampton Beach High School valedictorian Gavin Ehlers and salutatorian Madison Quinn. The top-ranking seniors were presented with proclamations for their hard work and dedication. They represented the Bridgehampton, East Hampton, Hampton Bays, Sag Harbor, Shoreham-Wading River and Westhampton Beach school districts. The students had the opportunity to hear firsthand from Sen. Palumbo and Assemblyman Thiele about their careers. In turn, the seniors shared stories about their journeys through high school, their passions, the difficulties they had faced during the pandemic and their plans for the future. Friends, family members, school administrators and the guests of honor also enjoyed a brunch prepared by Hampton Bays High School culinary students. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Gavin Ehlers and Madison Quinn. Date Added: 6/7/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=152417 Tue, 07 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT false152417 The New York State Public High School Athletic Association has recognized all of Westhampton Beach High School’s spring athletic teams as Scholar-Athlete Teams. To earn the recognition, 75% of each team was required to hold a GPA above 90%. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following teams: boys and girls varsity track, boys and girls varsity lacrosse, boys tennis, boys baseball and girls softball. Date Added: 6/3/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=152294 Fri, 03 Jun 2022 04:00:00 GMT false152294 For her hard work and dedication to community service, Westhampton Beach High School student Madison Esposito now has an opportunity to win a scholarship through the Team Up 4 Community Spring Community Service Challenge. Votes can be cast for Esposito through June 8 here: https://www.teamup4community.org/l-i-spring-sports-heroes-video-challenge-2022 For the past five years, Esposito has worked to donate hundreds of food items to Lighthouse Mission in Bellport. She started her project by recycling bottles to raise funds to purchase food for the nonprofit organization and has since increased her efforts. She now works closely with King Kullen in Eastport to collect food that would otherwise be thrown away. Through that partnership, she has been able to donate 115 boxes of produce — including bananas, potatoes, peppers, artichokes and lettuce greens — to Lighthouse Mission this school year. Esposito hopes that her work will inspire others to help those in need through Lighthouse Mission, which has several outreach trucks that provide food at 10 locations throughout Suffolk County. When not collecting food, Esposito, an honor roll student, participates in her school’s Key Club and Art Club. She is also an avid equestrian, having started riding at the age of 4, and is a former Girl Scout. Date Added: 6/2/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=152239 Thu, 02 Jun 2022 05:00:00 GMT false152239 Westhampton Beach High School musicians earned high marks at the Music in the Parks adjudication competition at Dorney Park on May 21. The high school pep band received an “excellent” rating, first place and the title of Overall Parade Band, and the chamber singers received an “excellent” rating and first place for mixed choir. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates all of the musicians on a job well done. Date Added: 5/25/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=151913 Wed, 25 May 2022 04:00:00 GMT false151913 Dressed in their best, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students were all smiles on May 17 as they participated in their school’s annual Spring Formal Luncheon. As part of the event, the PTA decorated the cafeteria with balloons and colored tablecloths and helped to serve students a fancy lunch. Date Added: 5/24/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=151910 Tue, 24 May 2022 04:00:00 GMT false151910 To inspire Westhampton Beach Elementary School students to read, the school celebrated Pick a Reading Partner Week during the week of May 16 through a variety of theme days. Students also actively worked to complete a “Readopoly” board that included a variety of reading tasks. Date Added: 5/23/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=151831 Mon, 23 May 2022 04:00:00 GMT false151831 High school seniors from the Hampton Bays, Southampton and Westhampton Beach school districts who have committed to entering the military upon graduation were honored at a fourth annual ceremony at Southampton High School on May 19. During the formal event, the seniors — who represent the 1% of graduates who commit to the military each year — were presented with proclamations and accolades. Their families were given blue star flags. The ceremony included musical military tributes and several speakers who offered congratulations and well wishes. The Westhampton Beach School Districts congratulate the following seniors who will be entering military service: Westhampton Beach Joshua Heino – Navy Dominic Jurgel – Air Force Piergiorgio Pirronni – Navy Antony Rojas – Navy Andrew Torrez Romero – Navy Date Added: 5/20/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=151830 Fri, 20 May 2022 04:00:00 GMT false151830 Westhampton Beach Middle School students recently raised $193 for the Anderson Center for Autism as part of a pajama day autism awareness fundraiser. The students worked to collect donations during their lunch periods. The fundraiser was spearheaded by Westhampton Beach High School senior Abby Edwards, who has been coordinating local autism awareness pajama day fundraisers for the Anderson Center since 2017. This year alone, she raised $9,547. Date Added: 5/17/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=151621 Wed, 18 May 2022 06:00:00 GMT false151621 Budget Results/Resultados del Presupuestro Budget Approved/Presupuesto Aprobado Yes (Si) 475 No (No) 130 Proposition 2 Approved/La Propuesta No. 2 Aprobado Library Budget/Propuesta de la Biblioteca Yes (Si) 463 No (No) 144 Board Election/Elección Delfiducario De La Junta De Educación Cassandra Carrick - 253 Elizabeth Lanni-Hewitt – 349* Katheryn Antonio-Rios - 57 Dawn Arrasate - 417 * *Elected/Fideicomisarios Electos Date Added: 5/17/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=151657 Mon, 16 May 2022 05:00:00 GMT false151657 Westhampton Beach High School science teacher Dr. Diana Gobler was one of 10 teachers in New York State to be selected for a prestigious Regeneron STEM Teaching Fellowship through Teachers College of Columbia University. As part of the application process, Dr. Gobler submitted academic credentials and personal statements reflecting her knowledge and implementation of science, technology, engineering and math pedagogy, as well as evidence of prior professional development. “This opportunity will give me the chance to strengthen my skills in teaching and understanding STEM topics that I want to improve in – specifically, engineering and coding,” she said. Dr. Gobler said that every year, she has science research students who are interested in projects involving coding and robotics. The fellowship will broaden her knowledge in those areas so that she can pass it on to her students. Through the fellowship, Dr. Gobler will take a Methods in STEM Education course and select electives in areas such as coding, robotics and astrobiology. The program culminates with a two-week research internship with Regeneron in the summer of 2023. At its conclusion, she will earn Leadership in STEM certification through Teachers College. Dr. Gobler has been teaching at Westhampton Beach High School for the past six years, with course subjects including biology, science research, AP Research: STEM and biotechnology. She earned her Bachelor of Science in chemistry at Gettysburg College and her doctorate in molecular biology and biochemistry at Stony Brook University, and she worked as a researcher at Stony Brook University for a number of years before transitioning to teaching. In addition to teaching, she is co-principal investigator for the SPARK Spectroscopy High School Research Program at Brookhaven National Laboratory. Date Added: 5/9/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=151203 Mon, 09 May 2022 04:00:00 GMT false151203 After witnessing community members in need waiting on long lines for food donations, Westhampton Beach High School student Madison Esposito decided that she was going to step up and make a difference. That was five years ago. Since then, she has worked to donate hundreds of food items to Lighthouse Mission in Bellport. Esposito started her effort by recycling bottles to raise funds to purchase food for the nonprofit organization and has since increased her efforts. She now works closely with King Kullen in Eastport to collect food that would otherwise be thrown away. Through that partnership, she has been able to donate 115 boxes of produce — including bananas, potatoes, peppers, artichokes and lettuce greens — to Lighthouse Mission this school year. Esposito hopes that her work will inspire others to help those in need through Lighthouse Mission, which has several outreach trucks that provide food at 10 locations throughout Suffolk County. When not collecting food, Esposito, an honor roll student, participates in her school’s Key Club and Art Club. She is also an avid equestrian, having started riding at the age of 4, and is a former Girl Scout. Date Added: 5/6/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=151169 Fri, 06 May 2022 04:00:00 GMT false151169 As a symbol of their commitment to the pursuit of higher education, the Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2022 wore the apparel of their college of choice on May 2. The class will be heading to a number of premier schools this fall to begin their postsecondary studies, including the Amherst College, Barnard College, Cornell University, Fordham University, Georgetown University, Gonzaga University, Northeastern University, New York University, Princeton University, Stony Brook University and the University of Michigan. “We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2022,” said Principal Dr. Christopher Herr. “They have made their mark on Westhampton Beach High School, and we wish them the very best in the future.” Date Added: 5/5/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=151137 Thu, 05 May 2022 04:00:00 GMT false151137 The Westhampton Beach School District invites community members to meet the Board of Education candidates on Thursday, May 5, at 7 p.m. at Westhampton Beach Middle School (sponsored by the Westhampton Beach Middle School PTO) and on Wednesday, May 11, at 7 p.m. at Westhampton Beach Elementary School (sponsored by the Westhampton Beach Elementary School PTA). The trustee election will take place on Tuesday, May 17. Date Added: 5/3/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=151090 Tue, 03 May 2022 05:00:00 GMT false151090 The talented actors and actresses of Westhampton Beach Middle School will present the comedy production of “Fairy Tale Courtroom” on Friday, May 6, and Saturday, May 7, at 7 p.m. Ticket are free. The production places the Big Bad Wolf and the Wicked Witch on trial for creating havoc in fairy tale land. Also making appearances are Snow White, Dorothy, Sleeping Beauty, the Three Little Pigs and Little Red Riding Hood. Date Added: 5/3/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=151068 Tue, 03 May 2022 04:00:00 GMT false151068 The talented Westhampton Beach High School robotics team showcased their skills at the FIRST Robotics 2022 world championship, recently held at the George Convention Center in Houston, Texas. During the event, 400 of the best FIRST robotics teams from around the world competed for the top position. Teams were broken into six field divisions, each comprised of 85 teams. Westhampton Beach’s Hurricanes battled in the Turing division and ended the competition with a win-loss record of 6-4-0 and an overall end rank of 18th in the division. “Our scouting and drive team really energized and performed at an outstanding level,” said coach Tony Kryl. “Our robot also held up to some of the most intensive rounds of play at a world championship.” Aside from competing, team members were able to learn from and speak with a multitude of teams, including ones from Israel, Turkey, Mexico, Brazil and Canada. “This was an experience that will be imbedded into the team members’ memories for life,” said Kryl. “The entire team is tremendously grateful to have the school, parents, community and numerous sponsors come forward in as little as one week to send them to Houston.” The team earned their spot at the world championship after competing at the SBPLI Regional 1 Long Island Championship, held at Hofstra University. During the competition, Westhampton Beach, who was the No. 3 seeded team, was selected by the No. 1 seeded team, Southold, to team up. They rose to the challenge and split the championship win. Westhampton Beach was further awarded the 2022 Rockwell Automation Creativity Award for their robot design. Date Added: 4/29/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=150995 Fri, 29 Apr 2022 05:00:00 GMT false150995 High school seniors from the Hampton Bays, Southampton and Westhampton Beach school districts who have committed to entering the military upon graduation will be honored at a joint ceremony at Agawam Park in Southampton on Thursday, May 19, at 10 a.m. The rain date is Wednesday, May 25. During the formal event, the seniors will be presented with proclamations and their families will be given blue star flags. The annual ceremony will include a musical military tribute and several speakers. Date Added: 4/29/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=150953 Fri, 29 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT false150953 The eighth grade students in Camille Pedersen’s personalized learning class at Westhampton Beach Middle School recently participated in a mock trial session with their principal, Charisse Miller, serving as the judge. The students were given binders that contained statements, evidence photos, medical reports and transcripts of interviews that they reviewed in advance of the trial. They also studied courtroom procedure, public speaking, persuasive language and basic rules of law. In addition, they heard from school psychologist Allaine King, who spoke about the psychology of body language and how to be a good witness. Also presenting to the class prior to the trial was Danielle Reinbachs, a practicing defense attorney. She held a presentation via Google Meet on courtroom procedure, different types of objections and various questioning techniques. “After two months of planning, the student ‘lawyers’ were able to clearly present their cases and the student ‘witnesses’ really embodied their characters,” said Pedersen. “I am so proud of them.” The idea for a mock trial was generated by the students as part of the new personalized learning class, which is offered to students in grades 6-8 in lieu of a study hall or band/orchestra enrollment. Through the project-based class, students research a topic of their choice and design an action project surrounding it. Date Added: 4/18/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=150546 Mon, 18 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT false150546 Westhampton Beach High School’s Virtual Enterprise team, Opal, outperformed teams from across the country, earning the number one spot at the VE National Business Plan Competition, held at the United Federation of Teachers in New York City. They, along with three of their virtual enterprise peers, were also awarded third place in the national Quickbooks competition. To earn first place in the business plan competition, Westhampton Beach’s team — made up of Avery Allen, Brooke Bertorello, Jessica Dunn, Gavin Ehlers, Valerie Finke and Bridget Lopez — competed against 1,243 teams from across the United States. “When Opal was announced as the first place winner, our team was ecstatic!,” said VE teacher Amy Demchak. “I can safely say that this was the highlight of my students’ senior year and a memory that all of us will always treasure. I am so proud of this amazing team and I am excited to see what the future holds for this bright group of young entrepreneurs.” Team Opal’s virtual business plan is for an online thrift store aimed at alleviating the harmful effects of fast fashion on the environment while providing a new life for pre-loved garments. Opal embraces the side-hustle economy, appealing to consignors with its up-front payout method. In addition to team Opal winning first place, Virtual Enterprise students placed third in the Quickbooks National Departmental Competition and were finalists in the Human Resources and Marketing competitions. The students who took the prize included: Brooke Bertorello, Gavin Ehlers, Valerie Finke (QuickBooks), Avery Allen, Abbie Jarzombek, Bridget Lopez (Marketing), and James Daniels, Jessica Dunn, Mason Sattler (Human Resources). The Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise business program requires students to create a business concept and formulate plans to market it. They compete and present their plans at several events and competitions throughout the year. Date Added: 4/15/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=150482 Fri, 15 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT false150482 To foster kindness and inclusivity, 15 Westhampton Beach High School students recently volunteered to read books and hold engaging discussions with students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School as part of the elementary school’s Social Inclusivity Month celebration. The high school students, who were nominated by their teachers to participate, read age-appropriate books to the elementary students, including “What Can a Citizen Do?” by Dave Eggers, “I Am Human: A Book of Empathy” by Susan Verde, “All Are Welcome” by Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman, and “Spork” by Kyo Maclear and Isabelle Arsenault. The readings were followed by heartfelt conversations about being kind to others and brainstorming ways to make a difference in the community. High school students also answered questions from elementary school students about high school. “Our students did an amazing job reading and having discussions with our elementary school students,” said high school Assistant Principal Kerry Pillittier. “I am proud of the way they represented Westhampton Beach High School.” The idea for the initiative was inaugurated through the district’s Equity Committee as a way to bring the schools and students together around something positive. Date Added: 4/14/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=150468 Thu, 14 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT false150468 Westhampton Beach Middle School students did their part to help Ukraine by assembling 1,000 care packages for troops in the war-torn country over a two-day period. Each package included cards carrying messages of hope that students penned, along with snacks and personal care items that were donated by Rocco A. Carriero Wealth Partners, with shipping by Get Moving USA. Students also learned more about the culture of the Eastern European country from Natalie Massa, a Ukrainian, who is the founder of the nonprofit I Love Ukraine organization. She spent time discussing her life in Ukraine and the current war. Date Added: 4/13/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=150446 Wed, 13 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT false150446 Westhampton Beach High School senior Frankie Noto was named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Boys Baseball Players for 2022. Noto was recognized for batting .333, scoring 15 runs during the spring 2021 season. He has committed to play at Adelphi University in the fall. The district congratulates him on this notable achievement. Date Added: 4/12/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=150377 Tue, 12 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT false150377 Westhampton Beach High School seniors James Daniels and Andrew Mastrole, along with Southampton High School senior Aiden Genender, recently participated in the annual YMCA Youth and Government Conference in Albany as members of the Southampton Youth Bureau’s Youth and Government program. They were joined by Southampton Town Councilman Tommy John Schiavoni. At the conference, the students participated in a model state government, where they debated mock bills written by fellow students. They also learned more about the democratic process, were given public speaking opportunities, and employed critical thinking skills and several months of preparatory research to argue their points. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the students on a job well done. Date Added: 4/11/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=150378 Mon, 11 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT false150378 Following two successful competitions, the Westhampton Beach robotics team, under the direction of their coach, Tony Kryl, has secured a spot in the FIRST Robotics World Championship scheduled for April 20-23 in Houston, Texas. “For us to get to Houston is huge,” said Kryl. “It is highly competitive.” The team, comprised of several seniors as well as some novices, earned their spot at the SBPLI Regional 1 Long Island Championship, held at Hofstra University. During the competition, Westhampton Beach, who was the No. 3 seeded team, was selected by the No. 1 seeded team, Southold, to team up. They rose to the challenge and split the championship win. Westhampton Beach was further awarded the 2022 Rockwell Automation Creativity Award for their robot design. This year, the students were tasked with creating a 120-pound robot over a six-week period that could accurately shoot balls into two different levels, as well as climb bars. The robot’s bar-climbing ability earned them the creativity award. “We never missed the bar,” said Kryl. “There was a steep learning curve for the team, but they really rose to the occasion.” The team’s robot performed just as well at a second regional competition, FIRST SBPL2, also held at Hofstra University. The No. 8 seeded team advanced to the No. 5 seed position and was eliminated in the quarterfinal, losing by one point in a very close round of play. The team is now working to make adjustments to their robot in advance of the world championship. “We have some small tweaks to do to make the robot even better,” said Kryl. The team members are also working on a fundraiser to help defray the cost associated with traveling to the championship. Their fundraiser can be found here. Date Added: 4/8/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=150373 Fri, 08 Apr 2022 04:00:00 GMT false150373 Westhampton Beach High School senior Olivia Rongo and junior Reilly Mahon have been named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Girls Lacrosse Players for 2022. Rongo was recognized for scoring 19 goals, 28 assists and 38 draws during the last spring season. Mahon earned her honor for winning 20 draws, causing 20 turnovers and picking up 22 ground balls last season. The district congratulates both athletes on this impressive achievement. Date Added: 3/28/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=149876 Mon, 28 Mar 2022 04:00:00 GMT false149876 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates two exceptional All-State, All-Federation senior athletes who were recently named to Newsday’s Top 25 Long Island Boys Track and Field athletes for 2022. Gavin Ehlers was recognized as one of the best distance runners on Long Island, running the 1,000-meter in 2:32.40 at the New York State Winter Championships. Colby Mason was recognized for clearing 14 feet in the pole vault at the same championship meet. Date Added: 3/25/2022 .tb_button.hover {border:2px outset;} .tb_button.hover {border:2px outset;} https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=149769 Fri, 25 Mar 2022 04:00:00 GMT false149769 The winter sports season at Westhampton Beach High School has concluded with multiple teams and athletes earning accolades. Highlights of the winter season included the girls winter track team earning League Championship and Scholar-Athlete Team titles. Also named Scholar-Athlete Teams were boys winter track, girls basketball, girls competitive cheer and wrestling. In addition, boys winter track members received the following individual honors: Gavin Ehlers — All-State, All-Federation, fifth place among public schools in the 3,200 and fourth place among public schools in the 1,000 at the New York State Championships Trever Hayes — 21st place among public schools in the 1,600 at the New York State Championships Maximus Hayna — 13th place among public schools in the 3,200 at the New York State Championships Colby Mason — All-State, All-Federation, fourth place among public schools in the pole vault at the New York State Championships The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to its winter athletes for their dedication and hard work. Date Added: 3/24/2022 .tb_button.hover {border:2px outset;} .tb_button.hover {border:2px outset;} .tb_button.hover {border:2px outset;} .tb_button.hover {border:2px outset;} https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=149770 Thu, 24 Mar 2022 04:00:00 GMT false149770 Westhampton Beach High School thespians, under the direction of Rosemary Cline, will present a performance of “Spamalot” on Friday, March 25, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, March 26, at 7:30 p.m.; and on Sunday, March 27, at 2 p.m. in the school’s auditorium, 49 Lilac Road, Westhampton Beach. Tickets are free. Date Added: 3/23/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=149761 Wed, 23 Mar 2022 04:00:00 GMT false149761 Due to his hard work and impressive science skills, Westhampton Beach High School junior Jack Schultz has been named a finalist in the New York State Science and Engineering Fair, scheduled for March 28 at the New York Hall of Science. Schultz earned the spot for his research on how increased atmospheric carbon dioxide can increase the quantity of certain toxic elements present in saccharina latissimi, a type of kelp. He presented his findings in an eight-minute video that was scored by NYSSEF judges, who are experts in scientific fields. If Schultz advances, he will be headed to the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in Atlanta this spring. This is a great opportunity, and I am excited for what's to come in the future, said Schultz. The work Schultz completed for the fair is just one of the many research projects he has undertaken during his tenure at Westhampton Beach High School. He is also working on a project with his science research classmates to restore a 65-million-year-old dinosaur fossil. Additionally, he is devoting time to researching microfossils. When not conducting research, Schultz is out in nature hiking, fishing and sailing. He intends to study chemistry in college. Date Added: 3/22/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=149682 Tue, 22 Mar 2022 04:00:00 GMT false149682 Students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School displayed their knowledge of science at the school’s 24th annual Math, Science and Technology Fair on March 17. The event showcased a variety of science projects by students in grades 1-5, with topics ranging from blind taste tests and memory to wind erosion and acid rain. This year’s fair winners were James Mercurio, kindergarten; Bubba Beasley and Emma Dwyer, first grade; Cora Montpetit, second grade; Ezra Schneider, third grade; Evan Pereyra, fourth grade; and Mary Rose Atkinson, fifth grade. The winning students are now eligible to compete in Brookhaven National Laboratory’s annual Elementary Science Fair Competition. Date Added: 3/21/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=149680 Mon, 21 Mar 2022 04:00:00 GMT false149680 To give back to the community and show that the Westhampton Beach Hurricanes truly care, the members of the Westhampton Beach High School Youth to Youth Club, led by advisers Joe Garvey, school counselor, and Kaity Gebhardt, school social worker, recently collected 1,400 pounds of food, 288 pounds of toiletries and 405 pairs of socks. The donations were delivered to community organizations and pantries to be distributed to local families in need, as well as to those in Ukraine. Additionally, students wrote hundreds of thank-you letters to the brave members of the armed forces currently serving through Support Our Troops. Date Added: 3/18/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=149594 Fri, 18 Mar 2022 04:00:00 GMT false149594 To mark National Foreign Language Week, Westhampton Beach High School’s French and Spanish clubs hosted a door decorating competition, with over 100 students participating. Working in groups, students competed to decorate classroom doors to celebrate the language and culture of countries around the world. The foreign language department faculty voted on the “best dressed” doors. The winning group, which designed a door with the theme of Mexico, was made up of Jessicka Alvarado, Paulina Herrera, Haley Salmeran and Helen Yac. They received a gift card to Funcho’s. Date Added: 3/17/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=149554 Thu, 17 Mar 2022 04:00:00 GMT false149554 Westhampton Beach Middle School students gleaned some real-world lessons in sustainable farming when Hamptons Aristocrat, a farm-to-table catering company, and Early Girl Farm, based in Brookhaven, visited the school on March 11 for a special event aimed at sparking interest in greenhouses, the basics of growing a variety of foods and connecting fresh ingredients to cooking. Along with making their own pizzas during the event, the students learned about the locally grown produce and herbs that Hamptons Aristocrat uses in their catering business and participated in a discussion about the impact of temperature and humidity on yeast. They also spent time with Patty Gentry, owner of Early Girl Farm, who provided fresh kale and basil for the students taste and add to their pizzas. In addition, they planted basil, which they will grow in their classrooms, and learned more about farming and the importance of eating local. “Growing and cooking your own food is not only fun and tech-free, but it also teaches self-empowerment, responsibility and the importance of local farming and eating vegetables,” explained Hamptons Aristocrat co-founders Lexi Ritsch and Louisa Young. Students worked in pairs to create their personal-sized artisanal pizzas by rolling out dough and topping it with sauce, cheese and fresh herbs, before Hamptons Aristocrat baked the pizzas in two mobile, outdoor pizza ovens. “It was a very exciting opportunity for students,” said Kathleen Ciancio, family and consumer sciences teacher. All of the ingredients were donated by Hamptons Aristocrat and Early Girl Farm. Students also received goody bags with a recipe, pizza dough, pizza baking tray and toppings to make their own pizzas at home with their families. Date Added: 3/16/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=149553 Wed, 16 Mar 2022 04:00:00 GMT false149553 Westhampton Beach High School has announced Gavin Ehlers and Madison Quinn as its Class of 2022 valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively. The two seniors earned the top spots in their class through their outstanding commitment to academics. Ehlers and Quinn have achieved a number of academic accomplishments during their tenure at Westhampton Beach High School. Both were named AP Scholars with Distinction by the College Board for their outstanding Advanced Placement exam scores, earned prestigious AP Capstone designations on their diplomas, and are members of the school’s National Honor Society. Additionally, Ehlers is treasurer of the National Honor Society and a National Merit finalist. He is also a cross-country and winter and spring track athlete who has earned multiple honors. He is a four-time cross-country champion and holds All-State, All-East Coast and All-Long Island titles for running. In the fall, Ehlers plans to attend Wake Forest University, where he will join the cross-country and track and field teams. He intends to study business. Quinn serves as president the National Honor Society, vice president of her school’s Interact Club, vice president of the Yearbook Club and secretary of student government. She also played soccer and lacrosse until her sophomore year. Additionally, she earned a National Merit commendation and the Bausch & Lomb Science Award, as well as awards in Spanish I and Algebra II. Date Added: 3/15/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=149458 Tue, 15 Mar 2022 04:00:00 GMT false149458 The Westhampton Beach School District is now registering children for the 2022-2023 school year. To be eligible, students must be 5 years old as of Dec. 1, 2022. Registration will be held at Westhampton Beach Elementary School on Tuesday, March 22, from 9-11 a.m., 1:30-2:30 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m.; and on Wednesday, March 23, from 9-11 a.m. and 1:30-2:30 p.m. Registration packets and additional information are available online at https://whbschools.org/parents_students/student_registration. For questions, please call 631-288-3800, ext. 231. Date Added: 3/2/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=149046 Wed, 02 Mar 2022 05:00:00 GMT false149046 The Westhampton Beach School District is pleased to announce that Westhampton Beach High School senior Gavin Ehlers has advanced to the final round of the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Program. He was named a semifinalist earlier this year. Ehlers was among approximately 16,000 semifinalists nationwide who qualified for the honor based on their high 2020 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test scores. He is competing for one of more than 7,500 National Merit Scholarships totaling about $30 million. Scholarship winners will be announced in the spring of 2022. More than 1 million juniors complete the testing each year and are automatically entered into the National Merit Scholarship Program. In addition to his impressive academics, Ehlers competes with his school’s varsity cross-country and track teams, is the assistant coach at Rolling Thunder Track Club and is a member of the National Honor Society. Date Added: 3/1/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=148891 Tue, 01 Mar 2022 05:00:00 GMT false148891 Two educators from Westhampton Beach High School — math teacher Kerri Grunenwald and science teacher Jeanne Lotito — have attained the prestigious recognition of Master Teacher by New York State. To earn this distinction, instructors are required to have at least four years of teaching experience, with at least 60% of that experience in STEM courses. They must also earn high scores on their Annual Professional Performance Reviews, have letters of recommendation submitted on their behalf, take a Praxis content exam, participate in individual and panel interviews, and submit a demonstration lesson. Once accepted, teachers must accrue a minimum of 50 hours in the New York State Master Teacher Program each year. “It was a long process, but completely worth it,” said Grunenwald. “The Master Teacher Program is an amazing program that gave me the opportunity to collaborate with other STEM educators from across New York State. We focus on expanding our knowledge in the areas of content, pedagogy, and students' families and communities. The connections I have made through this program are invaluable.” The program has also helped her to develop new strategies and techniques for challenging her students to become critical thinkers, she added, allowing them to be successful in academics as well as in the real world. Lotito shared a similar experience with the program. “I am very grateful to have been accepted into the New York State Master Teacher Program, and I feel very lucky to be able to connect with my colleagues from across Long Island and New York State during various professional development opportunities,” she said. “I know that these connections have helped to make me a better teacher and to provide the highest quality education for my students. Grunenwald has been teaching mathematics in the Westhampton Beach School District since 2008. She holds a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering and a master’s in secondary education, both from Hofstra University. Lotito has been a chemistry teacher in the district since 2016. She holds a Bachelor of Science in chemistry education from the University of Connecticut and a Master of Science in education from St. John’s University. Date Added: 2/28/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=147533 Mon, 28 Feb 2022 05:00:00 GMT false147533 In honor of Black History Month, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students are celebrating their diversity through engaging activities that tie into the new, schoolwide “Promise” that they recite daily. Each student colored a person-shaped paper cutout that, when strung together, created a diversity chain showcasing the uniqueness of all students and staff at the school. The chain runs through all of the school’s hallways. Students have also been learning about 90 influential African Americans through an interactive display in the school’s main hallway. The “Essential Elements of Black History” display, set up in the form of the Periodic Table of Elements, features QR codes that students can scan to access more information from a variety of age-appropriate, online sources. In addition to these activities, students created projects based on what they have learned from the biographies of African Americans who have made historically significant contributions to society. “It is so important for students to celebrate Black History month and learn about the incredible contributions of people that have changed the world as we know it,” said Principal Jeremy Garritano. “We are excited for what the future holds for our students and appreciate the hard work of our student council, Equity Committee and Taryn Brown in creating this incredible month-long celebration!” Date Added: 2/18/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=147532 Fri, 18 Feb 2022 05:00:00 GMT false147532 Westhampton Beach Elementary School was filled with love and celebration on Feb. 14 as students and staff marked the completion of the first 100 days of school and also observed Valentine’s Day with an array of fun-filled learning activities. The day kicked off with a game of Valentine’s Bingo as part of the school’s Hurricane Buddies program. The program pairs older students with younger students for a variety of activities throughout the school year. Kindergartners recognized the 100th day by adorning “100 Days of School” hats and improved their counting skills with different counting activities. Older students used candy hearts to practice their math and graphing skills. They also wrote kind messages to each other that will be displayed on giant paper hearts. Date Added: 2/17/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=147473 Thu, 17 Feb 2022 05:00:00 GMT false147473 To celebrate the 2022 Winter Olympics, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students have been participating in Olympic-themed sporting events in their physical education classes. Using gym equipment such as mats and balls, they simulated events including ski jumping, cross-country skiing, curling and the biathlon. Students also worked in teams to win the events for a country of their choosing and were awarded medals during a school Olympic Medal ceremony. Additionally, students are following two-time snowboarding Olympian Taylor Gold and created a sign rooting him on. The athlete is expected to virtually meet with the students later this month. Date Added: 2/16/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=147424 Wed, 16 Feb 2022 05:00:00 GMT false147424 As part of an interdisciplinary lesson surrounding the book The Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan, Westhampton Beach Middle School sixth graders participated in a research project about Greek gods. Working in teams, the students selected a Greek god to research, wrote an essay on their subject and constructed a paper temple complete with artifacts. They presented their findings to their peers and displayed their work in the library in a “Greek god gallery” for other students to view and learn from. Date Added: 2/15/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=147423 Tue, 15 Feb 2022 05:00:00 GMT false147423 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students made predictions on which team would win Super Bowl LVI through an annual Souper Bowl fundraiser. They used donations of nonperishable goods to vote for the team they thought would win this year’s Super Bowl by placing them in a team bin. The final tally indicated that 73 students guessed the Los Angeles Rams would win and 138 thought the Cincinnati Bengals would take home the title. All items collected will be donated to local food pantries. Date Added: 2/14/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=147397 Mon, 14 Feb 2022 05:00:00 GMT false147397 Westhampton Beach Elementary School second grade students are sewing kindness quilts as part of a kindness initiative and fundraiser for the St. Jude Experimenting, Prototyping, Inventing and Creating Challenge. The project, spearheaded by STEM teacher Katherine Haack, school librarian Joy Campagna and art teacher Sarah Drake, kicked off after students read “The Kindness Quilt” by Nancy Elizabeth Wallace and discussed the meaning of kindness during their library time. In art, the lesson continued with students learning more about what quilts are, how the quilt sandwich method is used to construct them, and the meaning of collaboration. They then constructed their own quilt blocks after practicing how to draw block letters. With the blocks complete, they worked in their STEM classes to sew them together using sewing machines. The four fully constructed quilts, which feature words of kindness, will be showcased at the Parrish Art Museum Student Exhibition from March 12 – May 1 and then donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital along with a book of get-well-soon notes that they penned in STEM. Additionally, students are aiming to raise $1,000 for the organization through its EPIC Challenge fundraising page. Students collaboratively designed the page during their STEM period. Donations can be made here: https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?pg=team&fr_id=134986&team_id=271218 Date Added: 2/9/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=147289 Wed, 09 Feb 2022 05:00:00 GMT false147289 To celebrate the 2022 Winter Olympics, Westhampton Beach Middle School students have transformed their school’s hallways into an Olympic village. The initiative, spearheaded by the school’s student council, inspired students to team up, select a country and decorate a classroom door. Doors feature flags, facts about Olympians and more. Date Added: 2/4/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=147161 Fri, 04 Feb 2022 05:00:00 GMT false147161 Westhampton Beach High School students enrolled in the school’s Digital Generation class participated in a final project competition at Stony Brook University on Jan. 25, with two of the students taking home honors. As part of the class, students collaborate remotely with fellow students across Suffolk County on technology-based projects, using Google apps to prepare their work for presentation. This year’s topic centered on technology issues facing society. Held at Stony Brook University, this year’s competition featured 14 teams who presented Google slideshows, commercials, newsletters, flyers, market research, infographics and social media posts that supported their research topics. The top three teams were awarded by a team of judges, among whom were Westhampton Beach administrators William Fisher and Jessica Williams. The first-place project award went to Westhampton Beach High School student Finnegan Hayward and his teammates. The school’s Za’rayah Coffey earned an MVP award. Students who participate in the Digital Generation course earn three college credits through Stony Brook University. “In this digital age, this class provides students with the tools they need to successfully work collaboratively and remotely,” said teacher Amy Demchak. Date Added: 1/31/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=146974 Mon, 31 Jan 2022 05:00:00 GMT false146974 To culminate a unit of study on the topic, eighth grade Earth Science students at Westhampton Beach Middle School created public service announcements to educate community members about the effects of climate change. “Climate change is a significant topic within the Earth Science curriculum, though we extend it past the standards,” said teacher Greg Izzo. Izzo, along with fellow teacher Laurie Ardito, embedded the climate change PSA project within the coursework to show students that they have the power and the voice to effect positive change. After conducting significant research, the students created PSA videos that they virtually shared with fellow students as part of a peer review process. Projects examined rising sea levels, wildfires, air pollution, wind energy, deforestation and solar energy, among other topics. Date Added: 1/24/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=145782 Mon, 24 Jan 2022 05:00:00 GMT false145782 To further unify the student body at Westhampton Beach Elementary School, members of the school’s student council, in collaboration with the building’s Equity Team, created a schoolwide promise that students recite daily. The promise is also displayed in the school’s hallway and was signed by all students. It states: “Together, we will treat everyone fairly and with respect. We promise to do our best to be kind to everyone. If we see someone being bullied, we will tell an adult. We promise to create a school where we all feel safe and happy! Together, we will create a school where everyone feels included.” The pledge coincides with planned monthly character education lessons and activities related to equity and diversity. Driving the initiative are student council members, who will be kicking off the initiative in February with a Diversity Month. The month will include extensive learning about 90 famous African Americans throughout history. Students will be able to access information on these figures by scanning QR codes associated with their profiles, which will be displayed throughout the school. They will also be making a paper “diversity chain” featuring images of themselves. “We are so proud of our students for embracing the promise,” said Principal Jeremy Garritano. “We believe this initiative, along with the creative input from our student council members, will truly make a difference.” Date Added: 1/21/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=145781 Fri, 21 Jan 2022 05:00:00 GMT false145781 Westhampton Beach Elementary School fourth graders learned about the life and history of Native Americans during a Journeys into American Indian Territory program on Jan. 19. During the event, students explored Native American artifacts in a museum set up in the school’s gymnasium. The museum included items such as Native American clothing, dolls and pottery. Date Added: 1/20/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=145718 Thu, 20 Jan 2022 05:00:00 GMT false145718 Fifth grade students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School presented an amazing performance of the musical “Snow Biz” on Jan. 13. The production, directed by music teacher Alexandra Gogas, featured scenes and skits depicting winter activities, including making snow angels and snowballs. All students had an opportunity to have their own singing or speaking role. Date Added: 1/14/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=145594 Fri, 14 Jan 2022 05:00:00 GMT false145594 New activities surrounding kindness, unification and student leadership are taking shape at Westhampton Beach High School through membership in the No Place for Hate initiative. The program provides interactive training and tools for students to take charge in the fight against bullying and bias. Already this year, four student members of the district’s Equity Committee teamed up with broadcast students to create a video about the No Place for Hate Pledge, which all students signed. Art students are also doing their part. They created large displays that feature the No Place for Hate logo. “The program fits in perfectly with character education initiatives that we already have in place,” said Assistant Principal Kerry Pillittier. “We are proud of our students for stepping up and embracing No Place for Hate.” Date Added: 1/11/2022 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=145472 Tue, 11 Jan 2022 05:00:00 GMT false145472 The New York State Public High School Athletic Association has recognized all 10 of Westhampton Beach High School’s fall athletic teams as Scholar-Athlete Teams. To earn the recognition, 75% of each team was required to hold a GPA above 90%. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the athletes. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=145383 Mon, 10 Jan 2022 05:00:00 GMT false145383 Westhampton Beach High School Hurricanes Lillie Henthorne and Nicholas Wazkelewicz were recently honored by the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance as winners of the Suffolk Zone Student Leadership Award. The seniors were selected based on their excellence in physical education, leadership ability and service to the community. During her tenure at Westhampton Beach, Henthorne has been a member of the varsity girls volleyball and softball teams. She also belongs to her school’s Interact Club, student government, and National, Mathematics, Foreign Language and Science honor societies. She plans to study environmental science in college in the fall. “Physical education has taught me that you can have fun playing sports with others regardless of whether they are your friends, in a different grade or someone you wouldn’t normally hang out with,” she said. Wazkelewicz has been a member of his school’s varsity football team for the past two years, varsity basketball team for three years and varsity track for four years. He serves as captain of both the varsity basketball and football teams and holds a Jim Lynch Unsung Hero Award. He also performs in his school’s band, volunteers at Maureen’s Haven and serves as an Immaculate Conception religious retreat counselor. He hopes to attend Louisiana State University or Michigan State University in the fall. Reflecting on what he has gained from physical education, Wazkelewicz said, “My favorite physical education moment was playing softball junior year and keeping track of who won the series. I loved how into it both myself and my classmates were.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=145297 Thu, 06 Jan 2022 05:00:00 GMT false145297 Westhampton Beach High School senior Gavin Ehlers and junior Max Haynia have been named to Newsday’s Top 25 Long Island Boys Winter Track list. Ehlers, who is one of the best distance runners on Long Island, earned the accolade for placing second in the Class B public school cross-country championships. He was also named Newsday’s Runner of the Year in the fall. Haynia received recognition for his performance during the cross-country season and for winning the 3,200-meter in 9 minutes, 29.87 seconds at the Suffolk sectional championships last spring. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates these fantastic athletes. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=145252 Wed, 05 Jan 2022 05:00:00 GMT false145252 Members of the Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise team had the opportunity to engage with fellow Virtual Enterprise teams from 21 school districts across Long Island at a networking event on Dec. 21. During the event, spearheaded by Westhampton Beach High School VE teacher Amy Demchak, students showcased their Virtual Enterprise marketing materials and products and participated in simulated business transactions. “This hands-on experience allowed students to act as young business professionals, marketing their virtual products and developing business partnerships with Virtual Enterprise firms from other schools,” said Demchak. The Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise business program requires students to create a business concept and formulate plans to market it. They compete and present their plans at several events throughout the year. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=145231 Tue, 04 Jan 2022 05:00:00 GMT false145231 For the fifth year in a row, Westhampton Beach High School junior Emily Tully has successfully held a toy drive for the nonprofit John Theissen Children’s Foundation, based in Wantagh. “I am giving back to the community, but it doesn’t feel like work or depletion,” said Tully. “Running the toy drive gives me happiness to know that I am making a difference in someone’s life.” Tully started her mission to collect toys as a seventh grade student at East Moriches Middle School. She continued her philanthropic efforts at Westhampton Beach High School, teaming up with the school’s Interact Club and placing collection boxes at the high school and elementary school, as well as in East Moriches schools. She also works to boost the drive through social media and with the assistance of the schools, which raise awareness as well. Tully inaugurated the annual toy drive after the John Theissen Children’s Foundation provided toys to a friend who was battling childhood cancer. “I decided to bring the toy drive to Westhampton Beach and East Moriches as a way to involve myself and the community in giving back for the holidays,” she said. All of the toys collected are distributed to children on Long Island who are sick or underprivileged. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=145067 Thu, 23 Dec 2021 05:00:00 GMT false145067 The Westhampton Beach High School National Honor Society recently hosted a successful holiday food drive in partnership with Long Island Cares. The students collected 789 food items that will be donated to local families in need. “What we can give far outweighs what we receive,” said NHS adviser Kristen Regan. “I am so proud of our student body and staff for making contributions.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=144950 Tue, 21 Dec 2021 05:00:00 GMT false144950 With holiday wrapping paper and tape in hand, members of the Westhampton Beach Student Government recently gift-wrapped special gifts for local families in need as part of their annual Operation Adopt-A-Family. To raise funds for the effort, the student council held a “change wars” fundraiser in which classes competed to collect the most change. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=144695 Tue, 14 Dec 2021 05:00:00 GMT false144695 The Westhampton Beach Union Free School District is pleased to announce that its stellar elementary and middle schools have received high state rankings by U.S. News & World Report. “This is a result of hard work and determination by our dedicated staff and students,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. “We will continue to strive to provide the best possible education.” According to the rankings, which are the first-ever released by U.S. News & World Report, both Westhampton Beach Elementary School and Westhampton Beach Middle School ranked in the top 30% of New York prekindergarten, elementary and middle schools. Each earned a best school badge recognition. The rankings are based on schools’ performance on state-required tests, graduation rates and how they prepare their students for high school. Out of the 2,211 elementary schools ranked in the state, Westhampton Beach Elementary School came in at 554. The middle school ranked 157 out of 1,673 middle schools. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=144633 Mon, 13 Dec 2021 05:00:00 GMT false144633 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates senior Olivia Rongo for being named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Girls Basketball Players list. Rongo was recognized for averaging 12.3 points as a guard/forward. She has committed to playing lacrosse at James Madison University. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=144571 Thu, 09 Dec 2021 05:00:00 GMT false144571 Members of the Westhampton Beach Elementary School Student Council have kicked off their annual holiday toy drive. The students worked to create signs and collection boxes with a goal to amass as many toys as possible during the month of December. All of the toys will be donated to the Toys for Tots program. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=144374 Tue, 07 Dec 2021 05:00:00 GMT false144374 The members of the Westhampton Beach Elementary School Student Council recently held a successful food drive within their school community. All of the food donations, along with additional nonperishable donations from St. Mark’s Church, will be provided to Westhampton Beach Elementary School families in need during parent/teacher conferences. Additionally, families will be able to select new toys donated by the Westhampton Pines community; gently used clothing donated by community members, parents, teachers and staff; and new winter coats donated by the Knights of Columbus. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=144373 Mon, 06 Dec 2021 05:00:00 GMT false144373 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students kicked off the holiday gift-giving season by shopping for loved ones at the PTA’s annual holiday fair. They spent time picking out the perfect gift from a large variety of items. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=144372 Fri, 03 Dec 2021 05:00:00 GMT false144372 As part of a PTA-sponsored program, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students are once again growing and tasting winter greens in the school’s greenhouse. Each month, farm educator Renato Stafford, owner of Homegrown, visits the school’s greenhouse to teach students about composting, succession planting and the variety of cold weather greens that can be grown in a greenhouse without heat. Students also have the opportunity to try greens that they harvest in the greenhouse, including spinach and arugula. They recently planted garlic, which they will harvest in June. “My goal is to teach students to become food advocates and have them try new things and change their eating habits at home,” said Stafford. In the spring, students will learn more about warm weather veggies and plant a variety of seeds, including tomatoes. One of the project’s goals is that all harvests from the greenhouse will be used in the school’s cafeteria. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=144371 Thu, 02 Dec 2021 05:00:00 GMT false144371 Five Westhampton Beach High School student-musicians have been named to the prestigious New York State Band Directors Association High School Honor Band, the highest on record for the school. The students — Amanda Albert (French horn), Lilah Caputo (clarinet), Ali Jedlicka (trombone), Joey Litjens (trombone) and Dan Stark (percussion) — were selected for the honor based on the impressive scores they received at the New York State School Music Association adjudications last spring. The performance will take place the weekend of March 4-6 in Syracuse. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=144312 Wed, 01 Dec 2021 05:00:00 GMT false144312 Westhampton Beach High School psychologist Elizabeth Martrano and social worker Kaitlin Gebhardt worked with the district’s English department to facilitate a gratitude activity for students during November. In their English classes, high schoolers viewed a presentation about the benefits and science behind practicing gratitude and used prompts to write what they are grateful for on index cards. The cards were then arranged in a visual display. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=144105 Tue, 23 Nov 2021 05:00:00 GMT false144105 Westhampton Beach Middle School Student Council members recently raised $546 through a fundraiser whose proceeds will be used to purchase nonperishable goods for the council’s December food drive. To raise the funds, the students challenged every grade level to purchase as many “turkey feathers” as they could at a cost of 50 cents each. All feathers purchased are being displayed on a turkey image hanging in the school’s main hallway. Sixth graders won the contest by purchasing 480 feathers. They will be rewarded with an extended lunch period in December. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=144074 Mon, 22 Nov 2021 05:00:00 GMT false144074 During a candle-lighting ceremony on Nov. 17, 16 Westhampton Beach High School seniors were inducted into the National Honor Society, one of the oldest and most prestigious national organizations for students. To be eligible for membership, the students were required to maintain an unweighted GPA of 92 or better; meet the standards of leadership, service, citizenship and character; and complete 30 hours of community service. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following inductees: Jessicka Alvarado-Morales Joshua Aponte Grace Blaustein Ciara Byrne Sophia Caponi Han Chen Rachel Crawford Mia Failla Keira Falvey Polina Gurba Ciara Herbert Liam McMunn Kaan Ozdemir Katelyn Stabile Isabel Vicente Lyndzee Walker https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=144029 Fri, 19 Nov 2021 05:00:00 GMT false144029 During a college signing ceremony on Nov. 16, 11 Westhampton Beach High School senior athletes penned their names to letters of intent. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following student-athletes: Jake D’Agata – The University of Scranton, Lacrosse Gavin Ehlers – Wake Forest University, Cross-Country Mia Failla – Duquesne University, Lacrosse Daniel Haber – Lewis University, Volleyball Rose Hayes – Gonzaga University, Tennis Aidan Kellachan – Endicott College, Lacrosse Liam McMunn – Muhlenberg College, Lacrosse Madison Mosher – West Chester University, Lacrosse Frank Noto – Adelphi University, Baseball Olivia Rongo – James Madison University, Lacrosse Trinity Valenzuela – Mercy College, Soccer https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=143947 Thu, 18 Nov 2021 05:00:00 GMT false143947 Seventy-seven Westhampton Beach High School seniors proved their academic mettle by being inducted into the school’s World Language, Science and Math honor societies during a ceremony on Nov. 9. The World Language Honor Society requires that students maintain a 92 or higher average in every year of their respective language classes and be enrolled in an AP Spanish or AP French class during their senior year. The Science and Math honor societies also require a minimum 92 average across all science or math courses taken, plus enrollment in at least one AP science course or advanced math class as a senior. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following inductees (M = Math Honor Society; S = Science Honor Society; W = World Language Honor Society): Amanda Albert – M, S, W Avery Allen – M David Alvarado – W Gavin Arcuri – M, S Eleanor Arena – S, W Geoffrey Arrasate – M Jayson Babcock – M William Barry – M Clifford Baynon – M Isabella Beck – M Brooke Bertorello – M, S Jacqueline Blake – M Grace Blaustein – M, S Julia Blydenburgh – M, S, W Ciara Byrne – W Randy Cabrera – M Morgan Calhoun – W Cole Cammarata – M, S, W Emmalyn Cancellire – M, W Sophia Caponi – S Ava Carroll – M, S, W Han Chen – M, S Gianna Ciappa – M, S, W Rachel Crawford – M, W Alex Cruz – M, S, W Emily D'Alessandro – M, S, W Madilyn Dackow – M, S James Daniels – M, S Alexander DeLeva – M Madeleine Donahue – M, S, W Anthony Donato – M Gail Drange – W Jessica Dunn – M, S Gavin Ehlers – M, S, W Mia Failla – M, S Keira Falvey – W Conor Farnan – M, S Valerie Finke – M, S Michael Griffin – M Polina Gurba – S Rose Hayes – M, S, W Nolan Heaney – M, S Lillie Henthorne – M, S, W Robert Hill – M Andre Insalaco – M, S Ali Jedlicka – M, S, W Matthew Kern – M Candice Kretsch – W Luca Kubanovich – M, S, W Evelin Lemus – W Joseph Litjens – M, S, W Bridget Lopez Segura – M Rosemari Marotta – M, S Jaclyn Massey – M, S, W Aidan McKeon – S Daniel Naglieri M Kaan Ozdemir – M, W Alexandria Parascandola – W Selena Pereyra – M, S, W Josephine Perl – M, S, W Vincent Pesce – M, S, W Ella Pinonzek – M Madison Quinn – M, S Gisela Ribeiro – M, W Mason Sattler – M Lauren Schurek – M, W Fainne Sheehan – M, W Charlotte Smith – M, S, W Giavanna Spagnolo – M, S, W Katelyn Stabile – M, S, W Daniel Stark – M, S Isabel Vicente – S, W Alessandro Volpe – M Lindsey Villareale – W Anna Weeks – M, W Jaxson Worthington – M Adriana Zukas – W https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=143946 Wed, 17 Nov 2021 05:00:00 GMT false143946 The Westhampton Beach High School National Honor Society held a successful blood drive on Nov. 10. During the drive, 101 donors were registered and 94 units of blood, which could save up to 282 lives, were collected, Of the new registrants, 51 were first-time donors. “This is exactly what our blood supply needs,” said NHS adviser Kristen Regan. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=143803 Mon, 15 Nov 2021 05:00:00 GMT false143803 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=143501 Thu, 11 Nov 2021 05:00:00 GMT false143501 As part of a Veterans Day lesson, first grade students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School created a Hall of Heroes in the main vestibule of their school. They made colorful signs, noting the five branches of the military, and a giant paper American flag. All students in the school were then invited to contribute to the project by gluing photos of family members and friends who are veterans to paper stars that are displayed on the wall. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=143489 Thu, 04 Nov 2021 04:00:00 GMT false143489 Science research students at Westhampton Beach High School recently participated in “A Day in the Life of the Peconic Bay” at Squire Pond in Hampton Bays. While on the field trip, the students worked with scientists from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and Brookhaven National Laboratory to measure nitrogen, phosphorus and dissolved oxygen and complete a biological survey of living organisms. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=143329 Tue, 02 Nov 2021 04:00:00 GMT false143329 Westhampton Beach High School junior Jack Schultz has earned an opportunity to work with some of the leading scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory as part of the lab’s Student Partnerships for Advanced Research and Knowledge program. SPARK grants students the ability to conduct hypothesis-driven research using BNL equipment and collaborations with scientific experts. Schultz was selected for the program after submitting an extensive research proposal. His research, which he commenced during the summer, focuses on the elemental analysis of kelp to see if climate change has an effect on higher carbon dioxide levels. The topic is one that hits home for Shultz. “We live near the beach and water is extremely important,” he said. The hard work and dedication that goes into any research project is something that Schultz knows a lot about. Aside from his kelp research with BNL, he is also working on a project to restore a 65-million-year-old dinosaur fossil. He has been working on the project along with his science research classmates at Westhampton Beach for over a year. Additionally, he is devoting time to researching microfossils. “You can often tell a bigger story by looking at smaller fossils,” he said. When not conducting research, Schultz is out in nature hiking, fishing and sailing. In college, he intends to study chemistry. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=143094 Fri, 29 Oct 2021 04:00:00 GMT false143094 Westhampton Beach High School senior Joseph Litjens has become one of only 375 students from around the world to earn a perfect score on his AP Research Exam. “I was surprised,” said Litjens, recalling the moment he opened his email to find correspondence from the College Board congratulating him on his accomplishment. “I didn’t think I did anything special. I was just doing what the assignment required.” Like other AP Research students, Litjens spent his entire junior year working on the final exam, which requires students to conduct an in-depth research project and submit a written paper. Litjens’ 5,000-word paper focused on the influence the pandemic has had on the quality of education. “It was a topic that I felt connected to,” he said. Aside from receiving a perfect score, Litjens also earned an AP Capstone diploma in the process. To receive the designation, he was required to participate his school’s AP Capstone program and earn a score of 3 or higher in two courses, AP Seminar and AP Research, and score similarly on four AP exams. He is one of 24 in the Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2022 to earn an AP Capstone diploma. Additionally, Litjens is an AP Scholar with Distinction and a National Merit Commended Student. When not focusing on schoolwork, he can be found playing the trombone in his school’s jazz band and pep band. He also plays the guitar outside of school. He plans to study mechanical engineering in college. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Joseph Litjens on a job well done. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=140529 Thu, 28 Oct 2021 04:00:00 GMT false140529 On Nov. 5, the Westhampton Beach High School’s auditorium curtain will open on an original production written by the school’s thespians. The show, “Brainstorm,” reveals the inner workings of a teenage mind. “This is a production that is very different than anything any of us have done before,” said director Rosemary Cline. “Even the audition process was different.” In selecting the production, Cline said she was searching for something new, challenging and unique for students. She came across a progressive youth theater company in the United Kingdom that provided a production template for a play that brings to life the science and social aspect of what goes on inside a teenage brain. Cline used template prompts related to situations involving parents and friends for improvisation and charades sessions with students. They quickly began to reveal their thoughts, reasonings and rationale for saying and doing the things they do. “I was surprised at how forthcoming students were and how in touch they were with what’s going on,” said Cline. “I think that is very heroic.” With ideas in place, freshmen Mia Pazera and Meg Pomroy and sophomore Rebecca Gutierrez-Haefeli got to work editing and weaving the content that came from the improv and charades sessions into one coherent script. “The content we created is pretty unfiltered and representative of what we want to say,” said Gutierrez-Haefeli. “It’s real.” Pazera echoed Gutierrez-Haefeli, saying, “The show is important because it portrays how we really are and what we think.” After all the hard work of writing and editing, Pomroy said she is looking forward to illustrating how teens think. “This production is special because we don’t have to act like someone else,” she said. “I can be who I am.” With the script completed, auditions were held in late September, with 18 actors selected after submitting a written piece that evoked feelings about their relationships with their parents. The students then read their compositions as a monologue. “This production really, personally describes our own experiences,” said actor Theo Grellet-Aumont, a sophomore. The show will be presented on Nov. 5 and Nov. 6 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 7 at 2 p.m. Tickets are free. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=140514 Wed, 27 Oct 2021 04:00:00 GMT false140514 As part of Fire Prevention Week, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students participated in fire safety assemblies with members of the Westhampton Beach Fire Department. They learned about the proper use of a fire extinguisher, smoke alarms and general fire safety. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=140511 Tue, 26 Oct 2021 04:00:00 GMT false140511 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students enjoyed perusing the shelves of their school’s annual book fair during the week of Oct. 18. They carefully selected books by their favorite authors, posters and other goodies available. The annual fair culminated with a family night on Oct. 20. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=140510 Mon, 25 Oct 2021 04:00:00 GMT false140510 The Westhampton Beach School District would like to extend its congratulations to varsity girls singles tennis player Matilda Buchen. The eighth grader recently claimed the Division IV conference individual championship title. Congratulations are also in order for Katelyn and Julia Stabile, for earning the doubles Division IV conference championship title. It is the second time the sisters have claimed the title. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=140508 Fri, 22 Oct 2021 04:00:00 GMT false140508 Hurricane pride was abundant as the Westhampton Beach School District celebrated homecoming during the week of Oct. 4. The spirit week festivities included thematic days leading up to the annual pep rally and homecoming football game under the lights on Oct. 8, when the Westhampton Beach Hurricanes took on Deer Park High School. The crowd, dressed in green and white, cheered as the home team claimed victory with a final score of 34-27. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=140229 Tue, 12 Oct 2021 04:00:00 GMT false140229 For their hard work, determination and dedication to academics, seven Westhampton Beach High School students have earned New York State Scholarships for Academic Excellence. The students qualified for the scholarships based on their exceptional GPAs and Regents test scores. The scholarships can be used toward a New York State institution of higher education. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates students Amanda Albert, Cole Cammarata, James Daniels, Gavin Ehlers, Rose Hayes, Ali Jedlicka and Madison Quinn on this accomplishment. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=140193 Fri, 08 Oct 2021 04:00:00 GMT false140193 Eleven students from the Westhampton Beach School District, who are enrolled in Eastern Suffolk BOCES career and technical education programs this school year, were recently presented with scholarships from the Southampton Business Alliance. The scholarships will help defray the out-of-pocket cost of tools and other gear the students are required to supply for their future studies in the building trades, specifically carpentry, HVAC, plumbing and heating, and electrical. This is the third year that the SBA has provided scholarships with a goal to help build a pipeline of skilled workers on the East End of Long Island. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following students: Tristin Allen, Electrical Hunter Calise, Carpentry Jagger Capozzola, Carpentry Michael Forseth, Electrical Matthew Galovic, Carpentry James Hertwig, HVAC Marcus LeBrun, Electrical Seth Levine, Carpentry Thomas Nguyen-Jeanneret, Electrical Nicholas Pelosi, Electrical Juan Set Vicente, Carpentry https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=140114 Wed, 06 Oct 2021 04:00:00 GMT false140114 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=139984 Fri, 01 Oct 2021 04:00:00 GMT false139984 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students raised more than $30,000 for their school through their annual Hurricane Fun Run, held Sept. 27. As part of the PTA-sponsored event, students gathered pledges to run laps on the high school football field. To provide incentive to the students for the fundraising effort, Principal Jeremy Garritano promised to sleep on the school’s roof if students managed to raise $20,000. They far surpassed that goal, and Garritano spent the night of the Sept. 27 on the school’s roof in a tent. All of the funds raised will go directly toward cultural and academic enrichment programs at the elementary school. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=139897 Wed, 29 Sep 2021 04:00:00 GMT false139897 Twenty-four members of Westhampton Beach’s Class of 2022 have earned a prestigious AP Capstone diploma, an accomplishment that took two years of hard work, drive and determination. To earn the designation, the students participated in their school’s AP Capstone program, in which they were required to earn a score of 3 or higher in two courses, AP Seminar and AP Research. Additionally, they were required to score similarly on four AP exams. The Westhampton Beach School District began offering the AP Capstone program in 2016. At the time, the district was just one of seven schools to adopt the advanced study program. Through the courses, students perform college-level work, delve deep into a research project and write a research paper, all while earning college credit. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following students: Amanda Albert, Gavin Arcuri, Randy Cabrera, Cole Cammarata, Alex Castro Cruz, James Daniels, Gavin Ehlers, Conor Farnan, Valerie Finke, Michael Griffin, Rose Hayes, Andre Insalaco, Ali Jedlicka, Matthew Kern, Luca Kubanovich, Joseph Litjens, Tessa McCombe, Aidan McKeon, Selena Pereyra, Josephine Perl, Madison Quinn, Lauren Schurek, Daniel Stark and Jaxson Worthington. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=139816 Tue, 28 Sep 2021 04:00:00 GMT false139816 In recognition of their exceptional achievement on national AP exams, 87 Westhampton Beach High School students have been designated as Advanced Placement Scholars. In total, 37 students were named AP Scholars, 18 earned the recognition of AP Scholar with Honor and 32 were named AP Scholars with Distinction. To earn Scholar recognition, students are required to score a 3 or higher on three or more AP exams; for Scholar with Honor, they must earn a 3.25 on all AP exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of those exams; for Scholar with Distinction, they must receive an average score of 3.5 on all AP exams and grades of 4 or higher on five or more of those exams. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following students: AP Scholars David Alvarado, Geoffrey Arrasate, Kylah Avery, Courtney Bigora, Julia Blydenburgh, Emmalyn Cancellire, Edgar Castro, Victor Castro, Brandon Cirincione, Carter Cline, Madilyn Dackow, Emma Davis, Madeleine Donahue, Jessica Dunn, Diana Espana, Mia Failla, Liam Greiner, Polina Gurba, Derek Haeussler, Hannah Hendrickson, Paulina Herrera, Robert Hill, Jack Kelly, Matthew Kern, Andrew Mastrole, Tessa McCombe, Olivia Rongo, Kate Ryan, Griffin Scheurer, Dylan Specht, Owen Travers, Emily Tully, Nicholas Waszkelewicz, Emma Way, Anna Weeks, Helen Yac and Adriana Zukas AP Scholars with Honor Gavin Arcuri, Grace Blaustein, Alex Castro Cruz, Han Chen, Kristina Cavaliere, Morgan Donahoe, Maximus Haynia, Luca Kubanovich, Jaclyn Massey, Gisela Ribeiro, Samantha Schaumloffel, Thomas Smith, Christie Stevkovski, Alex Vasquez, Anabel Velloso, Alessandro Volpe, Jaxson Worthington and Layla Yacoubi AP Scholars with Distinction Amanda Albert, Avery Allen, Matthew Biondi, James Buono, Randy Cabrera, Cole Cammarata, Ava Carroll, Emily D'Alessandro, James Daniels, Gavin Ehlers, Conor Farnan, Valerie Finke, Daniel Gosnell, Michael Griffin, Rose Hayes, McKenna Heaney, Lillie Henthorne, Andre Insalaco, Ali Jedlicka, Joseph Litjens, Aidan McKeon, Kaan Ozdemir, Selena Pereyra, Josephine Perl, Ella Pinonzek, Madison Quinn, Jack Schultz, Lauren Schurek, Fainne Sheehan, Megan Sitzmann, Daniel Stark and Gavin Vander Schaaf https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=139815 Mon, 27 Sep 2021 04:00:00 GMT false139815 The Westhampton Beach School District is pleased to announce that a Westhampton Beach High School senior has been selected as a semifinalist in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Program. In addition, six seniors have been named Commended Students. Gavin Ehlers is among approximately 16,000 semifinalists nationwide who qualified for the honor based on their high 2020 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test scores. He will advance to compete for one of more than 7,500 National Merit Scholarships totaling about $30 million. Scholarships will be announced in the spring of 2022. Receiving Letters of Commendation from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation were seniors James Daniels, Andre Insalaco, Ali Jedlicka, Joseph Litjens, Josephine Perl and Madison Quinn. They were among 34,000 students who earned the designation, also for their exceptional scores on the 2020 PSAT. More than 1 million juniors complete the testing each year and are automatically entered into the National Merit Scholarship Program. The district extends its congratulations to these hardworking students. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=139773 Fri, 24 Sep 2021 04:00:00 GMT false139773 Westhampton Beach Elementary School held a successful Back to School Night on Sept. 15, during which parents and caregivers had the opportunity to meet with teachers and learn about upcoming events and happenings. “A special thank-you to the staff and students for transforming the building into a warm and welcoming place,” said Principal Jeremy Garritano. “We are another step closer to getting back to what we have come to know at the elementary school.” For those who were unable to attend Back to School Night, the school created the following video: https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=139772 Thu, 23 Sep 2021 04:00:00 GMT false139772 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates two exceptional seniors who were named to Newsday’s Top 50 Long Island Boys Volleyball Players list. Conor Farnan was recognized for racking up 515 assists, 90 digs and 12 blocks last season. Daniel Haber was honored for making 286 kills, 105 digs, 34 aces and 32 blocks last season. He also advanced to the Suffolk Division II final. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=138223 Wed, 22 Sep 2021 04:00:00 GMT false138223 With the assistance of the Southampton Town Police, the Westhampton Beach Police Department and the Westhampton Beach Fire Department, Westhampton Beach Elementary School held a successful Bike Rodeo on Sept. 18. During the event, students learned bike safety and visited with ambulance and fire department first responders to learn more about the important jobs they do. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=138222 Tue, 21 Sep 2021 04:00:00 GMT false138222 The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates seniors Andre Insalaco and Loris Van Vlodrop, who were named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Boys Soccer Players list. Insalaco was honored as a top forward who tallied 15 goals and eight assists last season. Van Vlodrop was recognized for making eight goals and five assists last spring. He was also selected to represent the East region for the Olympic Development Program. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=138124 Mon, 20 Sep 2021 04:00:00 GMT false138124 The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to seniors Rose Hayes, Julia Stabile and Katelyn Stabile for being named to Newsday’s Top 30 Long Island Girls Tennis Players list. Hayes was recognized for winning her third Suffolk singles title last season. She has two state quarterfinal appearances and is a five-star recruit. The Stabile sisters were honored for making it to the finals of the Suffolk doubles tournament last season. They also play a variety of styles. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=138123 Fri, 17 Sep 2021 04:00:00 GMT false138123 Three Westhampton Beach High School student-musicians have been selected to perform in the prestigious All-State Music Festival based on their solo performances at New York State School Music Association adjudications last spring. Alexandra Fitt, an oboist, was named to the NYSSMA All-State Symphonic Band along with Fainne Sheehan, who plays the flute and piccolo. Bass singer Hunter Montgomery was named to the All-State Mixed Chorus. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates each of these students on their musical accomplishments. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=138085 Tue, 14 Sep 2021 04:00:00 GMT false138085 To mark the 20th anniversary of 9/11, the Westhampton Beach School District held a districtwide moment of silence on Sept. 10. The district also displayed an American flag, provided by the Westhampton Beach Fire Department, on the Westhampton Beach Middle School building. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=138021 Mon, 13 Sep 2021 04:00:00 GMT false138021 The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to senior Deegan Laube, who was named to Newsday’s Top 100 Long Island Football Players list. Laube, Slot/CB, was recognized for his speed and serving as the Hurricanes’ “top cover guy.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=137950 Thu, 09 Sep 2021 04:00:00 GMT false137950 Westhampton Beach students were all smiles as they arrived for the first day of the 2021-2022 school year on Sept. 2. “We are excited to welcome our students back to school,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst. “We are looking forward to providing them with a fun and engaging learning experience this year.” Upon arrival, elementary students were greeted by their teachers and new Principal Jeremy Garritano. They were escorted to their classrooms, where they began organizing their supplies and making new friends. Earlier in the morning, middle and high school students kicked off the academic year by settling into their new routines and meeting their teachers. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=137846 Thu, 02 Sep 2021 04:00:00 GMT false137846 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=131976 Thu, 02 Sep 2021 04:00:00 GMT false131976 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=132157 Wed, 18 Aug 2021 05:00:00 GMT false132157 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=132139 Wed, 18 Aug 2021 04:00:00 GMT false132139 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=131975 Wed, 04 Aug 2021 04:00:00 GMT false131975 The New York State Public High School Athletic Association has named Westhampton Beach High School a Scholar-Athlete School of Excellence for the 2020-21 school year. To earn this recognition, 75% of the school’s 20 varsity teams were required to hold a GPA above 90%. Westhampton Beach High School is among 124 schools to receive this notable designation. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to its varsity teams. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=131872 Mon, 26 Jul 2021 04:00:00 GMT false131872 Westhampton Beach students are spending their summer mornings learning and playing as part of the district’s Summer Academy, which runs through the month of July. The four-week program is held at Westhampton Beach Elementary School for students in grades K-5. It aims to prepare them for the coming school year through a variety of engaging learning activities. For example, kindergartners have practiced writing letters of the alphabet, first graders composed stories and drew accompanying pictures, and many have solved math problems outdoors using sidewalk chalk. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=131744 Wed, 14 Jul 2021 04:00:00 GMT false131744 Eight Westhampton Beach High School students have been named nominees in the 19th annual Teeny Awards for the part they played in their school’s productions. The awards ceremony will be held at the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center on Sunday, July 11, at 6 p.m. It will also be livestreamed. The Teeny Awards program recognizes student talent across 18 East End school districts. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following nominees: “All Because of Agatha” Alexander Baryk, Lead Male in a Play Joshua Kapli, Lead Male in a Play Theo Grellet-Aumont, Supporting Male Lead in a Play Jake Sidor, Supporting Male Lead in a Play Alicia Rignola, Supporting Female in a Play Valerie Finke, Outstanding Poster Design Jackie Massey and Rachel Terry, Best Sound Design Assistants & Crew “A Ten-Minute Music Festival” Valerie Finke, Outstanding Poster Design https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=131600 Fri, 02 Jul 2021 04:00:00 GMT false131600 The Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2021 celebrated an academic milestone as they received their diplomas on June 25 at the school’s 113th commencement exercises. During the evening ceremony, Superintendent of Schools Michael Radday and High School Principal Christopher Herr congratulated the students on their academic, athletic and extracurricular accomplishments and their community service contributions. Also speaking during the ceremony was valedictorian Jacqueline Glaser and salutatorian Jade Hawkesworth, who both spoke about perseverance and the future. Rounding out the celebration, senior class historian Ellen Floegel spoke of class memories, while senior Jane Paulson shared her own poem. The symphonic choir closed with a performance of “Stand Together” by Jim Papoulis. After accepting their diplomas and tossing their caps, the graduates joined a final procession off the football field toward their next chapter of success. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=131486 Mon, 28 Jun 2021 04:00:00 GMT false131486 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=131427 Fri, 25 Jun 2021 04:00:00 GMT false131427 Donning white and green caps and gowns, members of the Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2021 proudly marched through the halls of their former elementary school on June 21, both to reminisce about their early school days and to provide inspiration to current students. As they took the traditional senior walk, the elementary students cheered, clapped and held up signs of congratulations. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=131282 Thu, 24 Jun 2021 04:00:00 GMT false131282 Enjoy the Westhampton Beach High School’s 10 Minute Music Festival performances. Friday Night Saturday Night Sunday Afternoon https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=131226 Mon, 21 Jun 2021 04:00:00 GMT false131226 On Thursday, June 3, the Suffolk County School Superintendents Association continued its long-standing tradition of recognizing the highest-achieving graduates in Suffolk County. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 27th Annual Celebration of the Class of 2021 Valedictorians was presented as a virtual event. School superintendents, valedictorians and their parents gathered in small groups, within their own school districts, to view the event and celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of this year’s valedictorians. SCSSA President and Center Moriches School District Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ronald M. Masera hosted the event, thanked the association’s corporate partners for their support in helping to make the event possible and congratulated the valedictorians on their success. “Some of the most highly regarded schools in the nation are located in Suffolk County,” Dr. Masera said. “To achieve the status of a Suffolk County valedictorian is an extraordinary achievement.” This year’s keynote speaker was Jon Gordon, well-known author of several books including “The Energy Bus” and “The Power of Positive Leadership.” He spoke to the valedictorians about the benefits of positive leadership and the true meaning of encouraging others to succeed. “You have the power to transform the world,” Mr. Gordon said. “You decide your future. Be a positive leader and impact the people around you. Remember, the best is yet to come.” The SCSSA would like to congratulate all of this year’s valedictorians, including Westhampton Beach High School’s Class of 2021 Valedictorian Jacqueline Glaser. This year, on behalf of the SCSSA, Westhampton Beach School District’s Superintendent Mike Radday presented Jacqueline Glaser with a commemorative program, congratulatory video, a certificate of achievement, a cherished childhood storybook, “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” by Dr. Seuss and Jon Gordon’s book “The Energy Bus.” The program and video, which was created especially for the Class of 2021, featured information about each valedictorian’s school district, their formal senior yearbook photo, their college of choice and anticipated major. The choice of the storybook was certainly appropriate, as this year’s valedictorians plan to attend some of the most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the nation. In addition to recognizing the valedictorians, the SCSSA and their corporate partners awarded scholarships in every high school in Suffolk County to a highly deserving graduating senior planning to pursue a career in education or social services. These worthy scholarship recipients were selected by their own school districts for this special recognition. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=131078 Fri, 18 Jun 2021 04:00:00 GMT false131078 The Westhampton Beach School District has named Jacqueline Pirro as its new assistant superintendent for business, effective June 21, 2021. “We are looking forward to having Ms. Pirro join our team,” said Superintendent Mike Radday. “We are certain she will be an asset in continuing our tradition of strong financial stewardship and stability.” Pirro, of Center Moriches, joins Westhampton Beach from the Hauppauge Union Free School District, where she served as the assistant superintendent for business and operations since 2017. In that role, she was responsible for overseeing the district’s $115 million budget. Prior to her employment in Hauppauge, she held the post of assistant superintendent for business in the East Williston UFSD in Old Westbury, where she oversaw business office operations and managed the district’s $58 million budget. In addition to her K-12 experience, Pirro is an adjunct professor at Molloy College. She holds a B.A. in business administration from the University at Albany and an M.S. in adolescence education, as well as her advanced school business leader certification, from Dowling College. Of her appointment, Pirro said, “I am thrilled to be joining the administrative team. I look forward to continuing the tradition of excellence in Westhampton Beach. “ https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=131065 Thu, 17 Jun 2021 04:00:00 GMT false131065 Wearing red, white and blue, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students celebrated Flag Day on June 14. To mark the occasion, student council members shared with their peers the history and significance of the American flag over the school’s public address system. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=129933 Wed, 16 Jun 2021 04:00:00 GMT false129933 The Westhampton Beach School District is pleased to announce that it has named Jeremy Garritano as the new principal of Westhampton Beach Elementary School, effective July 1. He replaces principal Lisa Slover who is moving out of state. “We are pleased to welcome Mr. Garritano to the Westhampton Beach School District,” said Superintendent of Schools Michael R. Radday. “He brings and wealth of knowledge and experience to the position.” Garritano, of West Islip, joins the Westhampton Beach School District from the Southampton School District where he has served as assistant principal of the elementary school since 2019. In his time at the elementary school, he was the 504 coordinator, Instructional Support Team Chairperson, and provided Crisis Prevention training to the elementary staff. In 2020 he was designated as the Administrator for Remote Instruction Teams Pre K-6. During this time, he designed, implemented, and supported new remote learning protocols that provided students and families with positive and engaging learning experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to serving in Southampton, Garritano worked in the Riverhead Central School District, where he was a special education teacher. Along with teaching, he was a member of the Long Island Consortium for Excellence and Equity, facilitated Instructional Rounds throughout the district, and worked closely with the special education department to draft and update the district’s special education plan. He also served as coordinator of the science-based summer school program for English language learners, which aimed to prepare ELL students for the 2019-20 school year. In addition, he sat on a number of education committees, served as a science fair coordinator and was a member of the district’s Parent University planning team. Garritano holds his bachelor’s in government and policies and philosophy from St. John’s University, his master’s in childhood education from Dowling College, his Administrative Degree from the College of St. Rose and he is currently working on his doctorate at St. John’s University. Of his appointment, Garritano said, “I am truly humbled by this opportunity and realize the incredible responsibility that has been entrusted to me, the children of Westhampton Beach Elementary. I am eager to begin my work getting to know each and every student and family while working to become ingrained in the deep-rooted traditions and values that are at the heart of the Westhampton Beach Elementary School, District and community.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=129875 Tue, 15 Jun 2021 04:00:00 GMT false129875 Westhampton Beach High School junior Rose Hayes is among 35 student-athletes from across the nation to be named an All-American High School Tennis Player by the National High School Tennis All-American Foundation. Hayes has been playing tennis since the seventh grade, first at the former Bishop McGann-Mercy High School and then at Westhampton Beach. A singles player, she holds four division titles, three consecutive Suffolk County singles titles and five All-State titles. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates Hayes on this achievement. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=129687 Thu, 10 Jun 2021 04:00:00 GMT false129687 Click Here to view the Art Show https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=129479 Fri, 04 Jun 2021 04:00:00 GMT false129479 The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to three star tennis players who were named to Newsday’s Top 35 Boys Tennis Players list. Josh Kaplan, a senior singles player, was recognized for reaching the quarterfinals in the Suffolk tournament two times. Doubles players Andre Insalaco, a senior and Bobby Stabile, a freshman, were honored for starting the season with a big three-set victory and continuing to sprinting out to a 6-0 record. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=129177 Thu, 27 May 2021 04:00:00 GMT false129177 High school seniors from the Hampton Bays, Southampton and Westhampton Beach school districts who have committed to entering the military upon graduation were honored at a joint ceremony on May 21 at Agawam Park in Southampton. During the formal event, the seniors were presented with proclamations and their families were given blue star flags. The ceremony kicked off with a musical military tribute, followed by several speakers taking the podium to offer congratulations and well wishes. The Hampton Bays, Southampton and Westhampton Beach school districts congratulate the following seniors who will be entering military service: Hampton Bays William Krivickas, U.S. Marines Aiden Longueville, U.S. Navy Alejandra Marin, U.S. Air Force Jesus Ramos Aguilar, U.S. Marines Mel Ruiz Restrepo, U.S. Marines Southampton Joseph Amador, U.S. Marines Bryan Ambrose, U.S. Air Force – ROTC Jackson Brandt, U.S. Marines Zachary Mobius, U.S. Air Force Academy Biemla Ramkhelawan, U.S. Air Force Westhampton Beach Mary Erazo-Lopez, U.S. Army https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=129176 Wed, 26 May 2021 04:00:00 GMT false129176 Westhampton Beach Elementary School third through fifth grade students have collaborated and contributed artwork to a new outdoor art installation at the Watermill Center in Water Mill. Titled “Community Day,” the installation is the innovation of artist Laurie Lambrecht. Once finished, it will feature a fence of sticks that students have found and carefully wrapped in brightly colored yarn. The piece will be on display starting May 22 at 12 p.m. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=129004 Tue, 25 May 2021 04:00:00 GMT false129004 The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to seniors Rob Moore and Peter Traina who have been named to Newsday’s Top 100 Lacrosse Players list. Newsday noted Moore is a five-year varsity player who has become an indispensable two-way midfielder and Traina is a four-year player who is a natural goal scorer who scored 39 goals as a sophomore. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=128974 Mon, 24 May 2021 04:00:00 GMT false128974 The artwork of nine Westhampton Beach Middle School students was recently showcased at the Parrish Art Museum’s 60th annual Student Exhibition. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the student-artists: Anna Blanco, Emma Rose Holfelder, Charles LoRusso, Graelyn LoRusso, James Monserrate, Selin Ozkazanc, Mia Pazera, Monica Salguero Perez and Katelynn Vargas. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=128873 Fri, 21 May 2021 04:00:00 GMT false128873 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students broadened their art skills through a self-portrait project inspired by artist Roy Lichtenstein. For the project, the students took photos of themselves and transferred the images to canvas, which they carefully painted over several months. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=128872 Thu, 20 May 2021 04:00:00 GMT false128872 Westhampton Beach Middle School Robotics Club members recently participated in a virtual robotics competition that showcased their coding skills. Under the direction of advisor Richard Michta, the students used CoderZ software to program a virtual Lego robot to complete challenges to collect points. The hourlong event required them to troubleshoot their coding and apply skills that they have been practicing throughout the year. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates club members Nicholas Borruso, Abigail Holloran, Meghan Pomroy and Brady Schultz on a job well done. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=128871 Wed, 19 May 2021 04:00:00 GMT false128871 Budget Approved Presupuesto Aprobado Yes (Si) 199 No (No) 43 Proposition 2 Approved La Propuesta No. 3 Aprobado Library Budget Propuesta de la Biblioteca Yes (Si) 192 No (No) 50 Board Election Elección Delfiducario De La Junta De Educación George R Kast. Jr. – 204 Votes * *Elected/Fideicomisarios Electos https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=128908 Tue, 18 May 2021 05:00:00 GMT false128908 As part of a science unit on erosion, Westhampton Beach Elementary School second graders created their own “beach” to simulate the erosion process. For the experiment, the students placed sand and small rocks in a plastic container and then slowly poured water over them to see what happens to the sand. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=128809 Tue, 18 May 2021 04:00:00 GMT false128809 During the month of May, Westhampton Beach Elementary School fifth graders participated in several engaging science, technology, engineering and math challenges as part of their science education. Challenges included using recyclable items such as water bottles and straws to design the fastest car and creating an airplane out of tissue paper, tinfoil and cardstock. Students were also tasked with making a life jacket that would stay afloat for 90 seconds using different materials, including bubble wrap and rubber bands. In addition, they forged catapults with the goal of designing a contraption that could hit a target three feet away. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=128807 Mon, 17 May 2021 04:00:00 GMT false128807 In celebration of National Poetry Month, Westhampton Beach Middle School students participated in a blackout poetry contest, spearheaded by librarian Yvonne Perez. Entrants created poems by circling specific words and redacting others from pages taken out of torn or damaged library books. The middle school congratulates all six of the winners. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=128686 Fri, 14 May 2021 04:00:00 GMT false128686 The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to senior Jack Halloran and junior Frankie Noto who have been named to Newsday’s Top 100 Baseball Players list. Newsday noted that Halloran had 12 RBIs in his sophomore season and Noto is a three-year starter who plays the outfield and pitches. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=128578 Wed, 12 May 2021 04:00:00 GMT false128578 The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to seniors Jackie Amato and Maureen Duffy and junior Olivia Rongo who have been named to Newsday’s Top 100 Lacrosse Players list. Amato was recognized as a tough defender; Duffy for her speed and agility; and Rongo as a “turnover machine.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=128577 Tue, 11 May 2021 04:00:00 GMT false128577 Westhampton Beach High School junior Abby Edwards recently coordinated an Autism Awareness Day fundraiser that resulted in a donation of $12,000 to the Anderson Center for Autism. This is the fifth year that Edwards has held the event, which has reached schools across the East End. Since inaugurating the fundraiser five years ago, Edwards has raised a whopping $30,000 for the Anderson Center. She began her mission in the seventh grade by hosting a pajama day for autism awareness at East Moriches Middle School. With much success, she expanded her endeavor, opening it up to other schools. Since then, eight schools have signed on. Among them was Westhampton Beach High School, where students and staff have worn blue clothing and blue ribbons in support of autism awareness. “Little did I know that when I started this, I would be doing it annually, raising more than $30,000,” said Edwards. Edwards said she started the fundraiser in honor of her brother, who attends the Anderson Center. “I have always been super close with my brother, so having him living away from home is always difficult,” she said. “However, the Anderson Center has made it easier for my family and I because we know how much my brother and other Anderson students are cared for.” Edwards said donations are sent to her through a website she launched, www.autismawarenesspjday.com. The site also includes information about autism and links to resources. Aside from hosting the annual fundraiser, Edwards is a Girl Scout and a member of her school’s Youth to Youth Club. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=128424 Fri, 07 May 2021 04:00:00 GMT false128424 Westhampton Beach Middle School eighth grade students recently concluded a study of the Holocaust in their English language arts class. As part of the unit, students read “Night” by Elie Wiesel and virtually met with Dona Rosenblum, a well-known Holocaust educator. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=128334 Tue, 04 May 2021 04:00:00 GMT false128334 Fourth graders at Westhampton Beach Elementary School are utilizing their school’s greenhouse to grow marigold plants for Mother’s Day. Once the flowers are ready for picking, the students will replant them in hand-painted pots for their mothers. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=128180 Thu, 29 Apr 2021 04:00:00 GMT false128180 Westhampton Beach Middle School eighth grade engineering and design students recently built wooden bridges. Under the direction of their teacher, Richard Michta, the students worked through a design process to construct a bridge that was weight tested in an efficiency competition. Through the lesson, they learned about the distribution of forces, how shapes and different materials affect performance, and detailed construction techniques. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=128057 Wed, 28 Apr 2021 04:00:00 GMT false128057 The third grade students in Lorraine Mentz’s virtual class at Westhampton Beach Elementary School recently celebrated the earth by reading science articles and having discussions about the earth and the solar system. The lesson culminated with the students coloring in their own earth, complete with a smiley face. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=128053 Tue, 27 Apr 2021 04:00:00 GMT false128053 Five Virtual Enterprise students from Westhampton Beach High School recently took third place in the VE National Business Plan Competition. “This was an amazing accomplishment for our students, as they competed against approximately 600 schools from across the country,” said Virtual Enterprise teacher Amy Demchak. To earn the placement, Valerie Finke, Jackie Glaser, Jade Jackey, Bridget Lopez and Emma Strebel designed and presented their own virtual business. Their startup, a virtual financial education company, produces short, engaging videos in an effort to improve financial literacy among their Generation Z consumer base. Their “revenue” is generated from business advertisements that appear at the end of their videos, allowing them to provide their educational videos for free. The company also offers scholarship searches, tutoring services and financial webinars. Their video series, “Mo’ Tips,” is available free of charge on YouTube. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates these students on an outstanding job. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=128052 Mon, 26 Apr 2021 04:00:00 GMT false128052 Under the direction of Rosemary Cline, Westhampton Beach High School thespians presented an amazing stage reading of “All Because of Agatha” on April 16, 17 and 18. Parents were permitted to watch in-person during the socially distanced performances, which were also livestreamed. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=127851 Thu, 22 Apr 2021 04:00:00 GMT false127851 The Westhampton Beach School District is pleased to announce that Kathleen Masterson, the district’s director of health, physical education and athletics, has been recognized by the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association as a Certified Master Athletic Administrator. To earn the distinction, Masterson demonstrated, according to NIAAA, “exemplary knowledge, contributions and ongoing professional development in the field of interscholastic athletic administration.” The voluntary certification process included a thorough evaluation of Masterson’s background, experience, courses taken, professional contributions and practical presentation project. “I am very proud of this accomplishment,” said Masterson. “The certification took a great deal of hard work, but it was totally worth it.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=127850 Wed, 21 Apr 2021 04:00:00 GMT false127850 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students took part in daily activities as part of an Autism Awareness Spirit Week that kicked off April 12. Along with wearing blue to show their support, students read books and watched videos to learn more about autism, worked together to create a blue paper chain, guessed how many puzzle pieces were in a jar, and made classroom signs supporting autism awareness. They also participated in spirit days by wearing crazy socks, their favorite jerseys and tie-dyed apparel to school. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=127810 Mon, 19 Apr 2021 04:00:00 GMT false127810 Due to the uncertainty and lack of guidance regarding required Covid-19 protocols, the district will not be offering our Summer Recreation/Swim Program this summer (2021). The district will be offering opportunities for academic support/intervention to our students in all grades during the summer. More information will be provided in the near future as the format/structure of these programs are finalized. Additionally, information has been posted on the district website regarding half-day Universal Pre-Kindergarten opportunities for 2021-22. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=127607 Tue, 13 Apr 2021 04:00:00 GMT false127607 The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to junior Daniel Haber who has been named as one of the top 25 boys volleyball players on Long Island by Newsday. Haber earned the honor for recording 125 kills, 20 aces and 20 blocks in 2019. He also played a large role in leading his team to earn its first county title and Long Island Championship. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=127266 Wed, 07 Apr 2021 04:00:00 GMT false127266 The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to junior Andre Insalaco who has been named as one of the top 100 boys soccer players on Long Island by Newsday. Insalaco earned the honor for scoring eight goals in the Hurricanes’ first four games during last year’s season. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=127130 Mon, 05 Apr 2021 04:00:00 GMT false127130 Three Westhampton Beach High School cross-country runners have been named in Newsday’s Top 25 Cross-Country runners for 2021. Earning a spot in the top 25 boy category was Gavin Ehlers, a junior who ran 14:55.2 at the 2019 public school state championships where he placed 20th. Also, making the boys list was Max Haynia, a sophomore who placed 10th in the Class B race at the 2019 Suffolk State Qualifier. He ran 17:44.27. On Newsday’s top 25 girls list is Jackie Amato a senior who was the fastest runner from the Class B race at the Suffolk State qualifier. She ran 20:04.64. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the three athletes. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=127042 Mon, 29 Mar 2021 04:00:00 GMT false127042 Students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School displayed their knowledge of science during the school’s annual math, science and technology fair. The fair was held virtually due to COVID-19 restrictions. The students showcased a variety of science projects by uploading video presentations to the app Flipgrid. Topics ranged from erosion to velocity to pollution. This year’s fair winners were Maxwell Searles, kindergarten; Cora Montpetit, first grade; Ezra Schneider, second grade; Joshua Wright, third grade; Grace Magaldi-Eddy, fourth grade; and Christian Naclerio, fifth grade. Earning honorable mention were third graders Jacob Greenberger and Claire Robesch, fourth grader Catherine Robesch and fifth grader Jack Gibbons. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=127041 Fri, 26 Mar 2021 04:00:00 GMT false127041 Fifth grade students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School recently created their own water filtration systems as part of a science unit related to the earth’s fresh water sources. For the hands-on lesson, students used plastic water bottles, coffee filters and gravel to construct their own water filters, which they then tested for effectiveness. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126938 Wed, 24 Mar 2021 04:00:00 GMT false126938 Thinking about warmer days ahead, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students took part in a tropics-themed day on March 15. They dressed in their Hawaiian best, decorated their school’s hallways in a tropical theme, and wrote down what they are looking forward to this spring on paper coconuts that were added to the hallway display. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126937 Tue, 23 Mar 2021 04:00:00 GMT false126937 Third graders at Westhampton Beach Elementary School researched a variety of endangered species as part of a recent science lesson. Each student chose an animal on the endangered species list — ranging from sea turtles and bald eagles to whooping cranes — and created a report that they presented to their peers. They were encouraged to compliment each other by writing accolades on sticky notes that they affixed to each presenter’s report. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126936 Mon, 22 Mar 2021 04:00:00 GMT false126936 Westhampton Beach Elementary School kindergartners tested their luck on St. Patrick’s Day by constructing leprechaun traps. Wearing green, they covered boxes in paper four-leaf clovers to entice the silly leprechaun into their classroom. They also made paper leprechauns as part of the celebration. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126935 Fri, 19 Mar 2021 04:00:00 GMT false126935 As part of a lesson on World War II, Westhampton Beach Middle School eighth graders in Bryan Schaumloffel’s social studies class met virtually with two special guests from the Westhampton Beach Historical Society. The speakers shared a wealth of information about local artifacts related to the war. The first to share was former Westhampton Beach teacher Peter Cuthbert, who served in the Korean war and in the National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve. His father-in-law served during WWII. Also supplying students with historical facts was Dorothy Berdinka, a former teacher who is now a trustee/educational coordinator of the historical society. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126853 Thu, 18 Mar 2021 04:00:00 GMT false126853 This school year, Westhampton Beach Elementary School’s STEM lab has been filled with plenty of learning experiences in science, technology, engineering and math. Most recently, students learned about shadows and designed shadow puppets. They also scripted and designed scenery for performances that featured their one-of-a-kind creations. In another project, students learned how to create a series circuit in order to design and light up a snow village. They spliced old Christmas light wires and built a circuit with a switch to light up the buildings that they had constructed out of cardstock. The villages were complete with houses, schools, libraries and churches. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126852 Wed, 17 Mar 2021 04:00:00 GMT false126852 Two senior Hurricanes have been named as Newsday’s Top 100 Football Players for 2021. Aidan Cassara earned the honor for completing 25 catches and five touchdowns as a receiver last year and Jackson Hulse was recognized for making 50 tackles and five sacks as an outside linebacker in 2019. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the three-year starters. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126695 Mon, 15 Mar 2021 04:00:00 GMT false126695 What do you want to be when you grow up? That was the question seventh graders in Kathleen Ciancio’s family and consumer sciences class at Westhampton Beach Middle School recently explored. Each student selected four careers that they were interested in and used Naviance to delve further into them. They researched the wages, typical tasks, skills and abilities needed for each career and listed reasons why they were drawn to those vocations in a final report. They also set short-term goals to further explore their fields of interest. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126714 Fri, 12 Mar 2021 05:00:00 GMT false126714 In learning more about ancestors and immigration, Kim Mercready’s second graders at Westhampton Beach Elementary School participated in a Zoom session with a class parent to learn more about her family’s emigration path. During the session, Cecilia Manzolillo Triaca used maps and photos to explain how her family arrived in America. “The students loved listening to [Triaca’s] stories and seeing family photos, as well as learning about the different languages she and her family speak,” said Mercready. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126710 Thu, 11 Mar 2021 05:00:00 GMT false126710 A collaborative textile project, stitched together by Westhampton Beach Elementary School fifth grade art students, is now on display in the Parrish Art Museum’s 2021 Student Exhibition. “I couldn’t be prouder of these students,” said art teacher Sarah Drake. For the project, students learned how to knit swatches that were sewn together to form a large textile. The knitting lesson was part of a unit that explored the works of both local and international textile artists. The project will be on display at the museum, located at 279 Montauk Highway, Water Mill, through April 18. Exhibit hours are Friday through Monday, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-2:30 p.m. and 3-4:30 p.m. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126614 Wed, 10 Mar 2021 05:00:00 GMT false126614 Date Added: 3/9/2021 Westhampton Beach High School has announced Jacqueline Glaser and Jade Hawkesworth as its Class of 2021 valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively. The two seniors earned the top spots in their class through their outstanding commitment to academics. Glaser has achieved a number of academic accomplishments during her tenure at Westhampton Beach High School. She was named a National AP Scholar and AP Scholar with Distinction by the College Board for her outstanding Advanced Placement exam scores. She also serves as vice president of the school’s National Honor Society, a school representative for the League of Women Voters, a student liaison for the Key Club, captain of the varsity Quiz Bowl team, and facilitator for the mock trial and debate teams. In addition, she is a peer tutor for AP Seminar, Algebra I and geometry and a member of her school’s varsity volleyball team. Outside of school, Glaser is a Girl Scout and holds basic first aid certification. She also enjoys learning languages, including Spanish, German and French. She plans to study international business in college in the fall. Hawkesworth has an equally impressive academic record. She is a National AP Scholar and a member of her school’s National Honor Society. In addition, she is the founder of Sunrise WHB, a climate outreach organization, as well as a member of the school’s Equity, Equality and Social Justice committee and a racial equality ambassador for Young Long Island for Justice. Outside of school, Hawkesworth is a junior volunteer with the Westhampton Beach Junior Ambulance and holds CPR certification. She also volunteers at Brookhaven Memorial Hospital. She intends to study brain and cognitive sciences in college this fall. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126569 Tue, 09 Mar 2021 05:00:00 GMT false126569 Please be advised, the Westhampton Beach School District will allow two visitors per Westhampton Beach student-athlete at home games. There will be no visitor spectators allowed at Westhampton Beach. Additionally, temperatures will be checked for all spectators for indoor competitions. As a reminder, home games will be streamed online at NFHS Network. The district has purchased a subscription for the year to ensure families can view regular season home contests at no charge. Thank you for your support of our student-athletes. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126535 Mon, 08 Mar 2021 05:00:00 GMT false126535 Westhampton Beach Middle School chorus students, under the direction of Eric Beaker, recently created a musical tribute to frontline workers. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126517 Fri, 05 Mar 2021 05:00:00 GMT false126517 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students marked their 100th day of the school year on Feb. 26 with fun and engaging classroom activities. Dressed as 100-year-olds for the day, the students practiced their counting and worked on 100-themed projects. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126432 Thu, 04 Mar 2021 05:00:00 GMT false126432 Seventh grade students at Westhampton Beach Middle School created scale models of various objects as part of a pre-algebra lesson. They improved their measuring skills as they scaled their models to any factor of their choice, then voted for the best scale model. Winners were Chelsea Aguiree, Maiya Boughal, Brady Hoffmann, Joseph Morrissey, Aidan Murray and Michael Tessitore. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126380 Tue, 02 Mar 2021 05:00:00 GMT false126380 The Westhampton Beach School District is committed to equity, equality, and social justice. We continually strive to create a culture of inclusiveness, understanding, and compassion in our schools. We recognize that there is strength in our diversity and no place for racism and hate in our school community. The Equity Committee provides a platform for the school community to bring these issues to the forefront and to work towards a better future. If you are interested in participating in the Committee’s work, please contact Jessica Williams at jwilliams@whbschools.org. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126393 Tue, 02 Mar 2021 05:00:00 GMT false126393 Westhampton Beach High School senior Jane Paulson has been named a U.S. Presidential Scholars Program candidate by the U.S. Department of Education. She is one of only 34 students on Long Island to receive this nomination. Paulson’s recognition is based on her exceptional SAT and ACT scores, having joined an elite group of students in earning a perfect ACT score as a junior. She is also a National Merit Commended Scholar and earned National AP Scholar, AP Scholar with Honor and AP Scholar with Distinction designations from the College Board. In addition, she is a recipient of the George Eastman Young Leaders Award. During her high school career, Paulson has served as treasurer of the National Honor Society, participated in the Interact Club and Beyond Language Barriers Club, and played varsity softball. Outside of school, she is co-founder of Sunrise WHB, a group that advocates for the environment. She is also a Girl Scout and is involved with the DemocracyReady NY youth leadership initiative and the League of Women Voters. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126150 Thu, 25 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT false126150 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126211 Thu, 25 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT false126211 Students at Westhampton Beach High School stirred up kindness among their peers when they participated in P.S. I Love You Day on Feb. 12. Spearheaded by the school’s Youth to Youth Club, students were encouraged to wear the initiative’s symbolic purple and engage in random acts of kindness. One of those acts was writing letters to residents at the Westhampton Care Center, Peconic Bay Medical Center and Stony Brook Southampton Hospital. They also held a collection drive for toiletries and personal hygiene items to benefit Maureen’s Haven, as well as one for nonperishable foods to donate to local food pantries. P.S. I Love You Day, now in its 12th year, aims to raise awareness about bullying and suicide while promoting kindness. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126149 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT false126149 Congratulations to Westhampton Beach High School's Jackson Hulse who has been named as one of Newsday's top 50 Long Island wrestlers for 2021. To earn the honor, the senior won a Suffolk Division I title at 160 pounds two years ago and took third place at 170 pounds last year. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126098 Tue, 23 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT false126098 To spread the love for Valentine’s Day, Rosalie Gilhauley’s third grade class at Westhampton Beach Elementary School made collages out of life-size paper candy hearts. The students adorned the hearts with messages of kindness that they wrote to each other. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=126004 Mon, 22 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT false126004 Westhampton Beach Middle School Student Council members recently donated 11 gift baskets to health care workers at Stony Brook Southampton Hospital’s COVID-19 units. The baskets were made possible through generous donations from students, faculty and community members. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=125941 Fri, 19 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT false125941 To celebrate Presidents Day, Lorraine Mentz’s third grade remote class at Westhampton Beach Elementary School studied the life of Abraham Lincoln. The lesson culminated with a video that guided the students in sketching the 16th U.S. president. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=125937 Thu, 18 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT false125937 William Hughes, commander of the Westhampton Beach Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5350, recently presented seven students from the Westhampton Beach School District with certificates as winners in the post’s annual Patriot’s Pen and Voice of Democracy essay contests. Presented with certificates at the high school were students Amanda Albert, Ciara Byrne and Cassidy Conner, while Mia Brown, Cole Dawson, James Monserrate and Adelina Scott were honored at the middle school. Hughes also commended Westhampton Beach High School teacher Pamela Horowitz, who was named the post’s teacher of the year for her efforts in educating students about patriotism. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=125932 Wed, 17 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT false125932 Westhampton Beach Elementary School third graders in Lorraine Mentz’s remote class recently crafted paper bag bear puppets using paper cutouts and crayons. The project allowed students to practice their listening and direction-following skills in a fun-filled way. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=125839 Tue, 16 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT false125839 Westhampton Beach Middle School seventh graders recently spent time coloring valentines that will be delivered to senior citizens at the Westhampton Beach Care Center. The study skills class project not only provided the students with an opportunity to bring cheer to local seniors, but also showed them how coloring can be a mindfulness activity that can reduce stress and anxiety. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=125838 Mon, 15 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT false125838 Westhampton Beach High School students Amanda Albert, Edward Barr-Forget, William Barr-Forget and William Zaffuto were officially inducted into the Westhampton Beach High School Tri-M Music Honor Society during a virtual ceremony on Feb. 10. The students were originally scheduled to be inducted last school year, but the ceremony was postponed due to COVID-19. To earn the honor, the students were required to maintain a grade point average of 85 or above in all their classes and a 92 average in all music classes, participate in a music class or ensemble at least one semester each school year and submit a 500-word personal statement indicating why they are an excellent candidate for Tri-M. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=125837 Fri, 12 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT false125837 Congratulations to Westhampton Beach High School's Olivia Rongo who has been named as one of Newsday's top 100 Long Island basketball players for 2021. To earn the honor, she averaged eight points, eight rebounds and four assists during the Suffolk Class A champions last year. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=125807 Thu, 11 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT false125807 To celebrate Black History Month, 60 Westhampton Beach High School National Honor Society members researched African Americans who have made significant contributions to history. Their biographies, which include photos and quotes, are on display in the school’s main stairwell. The display was designed by students Cami Osorio and Hannah Parsons. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=125674 Tue, 09 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT false125674 A group of seventh grade students in Christine Floegel’s study skills class at Westhampton Beach Middle School recently took part in the TOTAL (Turn Off Technology and Lead) Challenge. As part of the weeklong event, the students aimed to limit their use of nonessential cellphones, electronics and technology and engage in conversations, reading, board games, outdoor activities and other hobbies. The seventh graders participated in the challenge after completing a unit on time management, where they explored statistics related to screen time. They quickly discovered that they averaged 4.5-7 hours of phone time per day. From the class, 12 were recognized for excelling in the challenge by completing 10 to 25 hours of activities unrelated to technology in a week. Congratulations to the following students: Leo Perl, Patrick Reilly, Nathan Perl, Lauren Glynn, Rhylee Kirchner, Mayai Boughal, Constantine Bouzous-Reilly, Madison McCarty, Ben Ravin, Bailey Hudson and Nicholas Pellicano. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=125673 Mon, 08 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT false125673 Seventh grade students at Westhampton Beach Middle School recently designed their own video games using Scratch, a block-based programming language. The activity gave students an opportunity to learn more about coding. It was part of a lesson in problem-solving and project design in their digital literacy class. They also gained skills in logical reasoning, debugging and reducing complex problems into simpler parts. Teacher Randall Lein pointed out there was a larger lesson to be learned, as well. “The students discovered that everyone can create computer programs, and that it doesn’t require any special background or expertise, just clear and careful thinking,” said Lein. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=125347 Tue, 02 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT false125347 The Westhampton Beach School District is pleased to announce that seven students have been named local winners in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 535’s annual Patriot’s Pen and Voice of Democracy essay contests. For their stellar essays written on the contest theme of “Is this the country the founders envisioned,” Westhampton Beach High School students Amanda Albert, Ciara Byrne and Cassidy Conner were named winners. Achieving honors in the Patriot’s Pen essay contest were Westhampton Beach Middle School students Mia Brown, Cole Dawson, James Monserrate and Adelina Scott. The students each penned essays surrounding this year’s contest theme, “What is patriotism to me?” Additionally, the VFW post named Westhampton Beach High School teacher Pamela Horowitz as this year’s teacher of the year for her efforts in teaching patriotism to her students. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=125214 Mon, 01 Feb 2021 05:00:00 GMT false125214 Westhampton Beach High School seniors Joseph D’Agostino and Ryan Miller were recently nominated by Congressman Lee Zeldin for appointments to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and the U.S. Air Force Academy, respectively. They were among 30 local students to receive nominations to the United States’ five service academies. D’Agostino is an active member of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps and the New York National Guard Council. He also participated in his school’s wrestling program and plays trumpet in the school’s band. Miller is involved in several service-related activities, including ones at his church. He is an athlete, playing both football and baseball, and has interned at Congressman Zeldin’s office. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=125213 Fri, 29 Jan 2021 05:00:00 GMT false125213 Get to know Dr. Probst in her own words before she returns to Westhampton Beach on July 1. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=125338 Thu, 28 Jan 2021 05:00:00 GMT false125338 Westhampton Beach UFSD to appoint next superintendent of schools Dr. Carolyn J. Probst to assume the leadership role effective August 2021 Following an extensive five-month search, the Westhampton Beach Board of Education is pleased to announce its next educational leader. During the Monday, Jan. 25 Board meeting, it is anticipated the district will appoint Dr. Carolyn J. Probst as superintendent of schools effective Aug. 17, 2021. In an effort to ensure a smooth transition, Dr. Probst will join the district as deputy superintendent effective July 1, 2021. She will work with the district leadership team in this position until assuming the role of superintendent of schools on Aug. 17, 2021, upon the retirement of current Superintendent Michael R. Radday. “We are very excited to welcome Dr. Probst back to Westhampton Beach,” Board of Education President Suzanne Mensch said. “When interviewing Dr. Probst, she met many of the qualities the Board and community expect in our educational leader. She is strategic and thoughtful and brings with her a solid vision for the future of our schools and students. Additionally, her eight years in Westhampton Beach coupled with her current central office leadership experience will be a tremendous resource to our school community.” Dr. Probst will join Westhampton Beach from the Hauppauge Public Schools, where she has served as assistant to the superintendent for educational services and student outcomes since 2017. Prior to her years in Hauppauge, Dr. Probst served as director of academic advancement and innovation for the West Hempstead Union Free School District and spent eight years at Westhampton Beach High School as an assistant principal and guidance counselor. “I began my career in Westhampton Beach and returning to lead the district will be my great honor,” said Dr. Probst. “I am excited to partner with the Board of Education, administrators, faculty, staff and the community to build upon the tradition of success in Westhampton Beach.” Dr. Probst received her bachelor’s degree from American University; her master’s degrees in education leadership, school counseling and psychological counseling from Columbia University; and her doctorate degree in K-12 educational leadership and policy from Vanderbilt University. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=125187 Fri, 22 Jan 2021 05:00:00 GMT false125187 The Westhampton Beach Middle School Student Council is collecting items to create care packages for hospital workers in our area. To assist in the effort, please consider sending a donation via the council’s Amazon Wish List. https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/74NIN71KNM4F?ref_=wl_share Thank you for your support. Donations will be accepted through Feb. 5 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124875 Fri, 08 Jan 2021 05:00:00 GMT false124875 Westhampton Beach High School seniors Maureen Duffy and Aidan Cassara were honored by the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance as winners of the Suffolk Zone Student Leadership Award. The pair were selected based on their excellence in physical education, leadership ability and service to the community. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124771 Mon, 04 Jan 2021 05:00:00 GMT false124771 Westhampton Beach High School Key Club member Giavanna Spagnolo recently organized a successful clothing drive to help those in need at Maureen’s Haven in Riverhead. Thanks to the generosity of students, teachers and staff, the junior was able to collect several boxes full of new and gently used coats, scarves and gloves. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124503 Wed, 23 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMT false124503 Westhampton Beach High School Key Club and Youth to Youth members recently worked together to spread holiday cheer at their school. The club members spent time decorating a Christmas tree in the main lobby of the school and hanging various Hanukkah decorations. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124505 Tue, 22 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMT false124505 The attached COVID-19 testing letter and consent forms were mailed to the parents of all in-person learners the week of December 21. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124671 Tue, 22 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMT false124671 The Westhampton Beach Elementary School Student Council has been very busy helping others through two recent donation drives. In November, students held a Thanks for Giving Food Drive, where they collected nonperishable food items for those in need. They dropped some of the food items at the Little Pantry on Mill Road and the rest at the food pantry at Parish Hall. Following the food drive, the students got right to work kicking off a Toys for Tots toy drive. All of the donations will be provided to the Immaculate Conception Church’s adopt-a-family program. “I am so proud of this group of students,” said advisor Kerri Beaver. “They are filled with compassion, enthusiasm and the determination to make their school and the community at large a better place for everyone.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124358 Mon, 21 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMT false124358 Westhampton Beach Elementary School fifth graders teamed up to test their STEM skills by designing and dropping candy parachutes. The activity came after a reading of “Chocolate Pilot” by Gail Halvorsen, in which the main character brings happiness to children in Germany after World War II by dropping parachutes filled with candy from his aircraft. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124345 Fri, 18 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMT false124345 More than 60 Westhampton Beach Middle School students enjoyed a festive evening of gingerbread house making as part of the middle school’s first virtual gingerbread competition fundraiser. The event not only provided a fun family activity for middle school students, but also raised $200 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Eighth grader Esvin Alvardo, whose gingerbread house was adorned by plenty of icing, candy and confectioners’ sugar, was voted the winner by middle school teachers and awarded a $25 gift card. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124344 Thu, 17 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMT false124344 See below for information regarding the superintendent search. Dr. Probst Appointed Superintendent Meet Dr. Probst December 16, 2020 Update Survey Information - October 14, 2020 September 15, 2020 Update Superintendent Search Brochure https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124455 Wed, 16 Dec 2020 15:00:00 GMT false124455 December 16, 2020 Dear Westhampton Beach School Community, I hope this message finds you healthy and in good spirits. As we look forward to our holiday recess and a new year, we wanted to share an update on the search for our next school leader. Over the past few weeks, our BOCES consultant has analyzed more than 500 community surveys, 76% of which respondents indicated they had children currently enrolled in our schools. We thank you for such a wonderful response! It is heartening to have so many parents actively involved in the process by providing this important feedback. Our BOCES consultant also met with internal stakeholders to receive their feedback and input. The survey results and internal meetings reaffirmed the Board and community have similar priorities and expectations for the next superintendent of schools. Among the top priorities shared include strong districtwide leadership; strong human relations skills with high moral and ethical standards; demonstrated leadership in long-range facility and strategic planning, including providing safe environments for students and staff; and utilization of strategies to address academic standards and student diversity. We appreciate the time everyone has taken to provide this valuable input. As of this message, the Board has completed its first round of interviews and we are very excited for the future of our school district. We will continue to provide updates as we move through this process. All communication regarding the search can be found under “Announcements” on our website homepage. On behalf of the Board of Education and the Westhampton Beach School District, I wish you and your families a happy and healthy holiday season. Warm Regards, Suzanne M. Mensch Board of Education President Westhampton Beach School District https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124454 Wed, 16 Dec 2020 15:00:00 GMT false124454 During a virtual candle-lighting ceremony, 60 Westhampton Beach High School students were inducted into the National Honor Society. To be eligible for membership, the students were required to maintain an unweighted GPA of 92 or better; meet the standards of leadership, service, citizenship and character; and complete 45 hours of community service. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following inductees: Jacqueline Amato, Lola Anderson, William Barr-Forget Justin Buonomo Sean Buonomo Andrew Caponi Megan Card-Gimpelman Cassidy Connor Daniel Cooper Joseph D'Agostino Matthew Daleo Ella Donneson Maureen Duffy, Brandon Erbis Courtney Fives Ellen Floegel Casey Gallagher Taylor Gallarello Michael Giacchetto Jacqueline Glaser, John Halloran, Jade Hawkesworth, Sidney Heaney Caroline Henke Jade Jackey, Olivia Jayne Kayla Jimenez Joshua Kaplan Campbell Kast Sarah Keating Cooper Kim Elizabeth Knieriemen Alicia Linder Evan Lockwood Hade Lopez-Xirum Jake Mecca, Ryan Miller, Camila Osorio Carter Papagni Hannah Parsons Jane Paulson Edona Popi Sofia Presutti, Michael Romano Jack Santora Dominic Sarno Grace Schmelzer Mia Seitles John Shannon Grant Skala Molly Skorobohaty Ashley Steedman Emma Strebel, Chloe Vargas Vanessa Vargas Natalia Vega Emily Vignieri Lily Wagner Courtney Rose Wenzel William Zaffuto https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124300 Wed, 16 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMT false124300 Westhampton Beach High School Virtual Enterprise students recently participated in an online trade show with fellow VE students across the United States. Prior to the event, the Westhampton Beach students created a mock financial education company, complete with YouTube channel and Instagram accounts that they exhibited and “sold” during the trade show. They named the company Monenti. “The students were especially taken with the laidback students from California, who sold virtual surfboards made from plastic bottles,” said teacher Amy Demchak. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124299 Tue, 15 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMT false124299 Westhampton Beach High School sophomores Sydney Anastasia, Sean Bass and Kaitlyn Mcdermott recently raised $1,300 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation by collecting 644 letters to Santa as part of the Macy’s Believe letter-writing campaign. To gather the letters, the trio, who work under the name the Golden Canes, put out a call to the community to write letters to Santa. They then decked out a golf cart in festive gear and drove around neighborhoods collecting the letters. Their efforts are now being featured as part of Team Up for Community’s Holiday Hero Video Challenge, where they have the opportunity to win a top prize of $3,000. If they win, they plan to donate it to Make-A-Wish. The Golden Canes are asking the community to log into Team Up for Community and vote for their campaign. Voting continues through Dec. 18 at 8 p.m. and can be cast here: https://www.teamup4community.org/l-i-holiday-sports-heroes-video-challenge-2020. This is not the first time that the Golden Canes have participated in the Holiday Hero Video Challenge. Last year, they won $500, which they donated to Make-A-Wish. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124405 Tue, 15 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMT false124405 To generate holiday spirit among students and faculty, members of the Westhampton Beach High School National Honor Society generously donated enough candy canes for every student and teacher in the building. The candy canes will be distributed during the week of Dec. 21. Pictured is National Honor Society treasurer Jane Paulson. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124298 Mon, 14 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMT false124298 To give back to the community, the Westhampton Beach High School National Junior Honor Society hosted a Thanksgiving food drive that benefited the Eastern Farm Workers Association, collecting several boxes of nonperishables for the cause. The NJHS intends to replicate the successful food drive with a holiday food drive, which kicked off earlier this month. They are accepting donations through Dec. 18. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124297 Fri, 11 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMT false124297 Three Westhampton Beach High School band students were named to the prestigious 2021 New York State Band Directors Association Honors Concert Band based on their NYSSMA scores. Josh Kaplan (trumpet), Hannah Parsons (horn) and Fainne Sheehan (flute) will have the opportunity to participate virtually in four workshops and a final performance that will take place in March. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124160 Tue, 08 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMT false124160 Sporting college apparel, eight Westhampton Beach High School senior athletes signed national letters of intent during an informal ceremony in the district’s athletic office during the week of Nov. 30. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following athletes: Maureen Duffy, Lacrosse, University of Virginia Brandon Erbis, Baseball Southern New Hampshire University Casey Gallagher, Lacrosse La Salle University Taylor Gallerello, Lacrosse, Liberty University Campbell Kast, Lacrosse, Millersville University Ryan Miller, Baseball, Norwich University Robert Moore, Lacrosse, Fairfield University Peter Trainor, Lacrosse, Stony Brook University https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124158 Mon, 07 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMT false124158 A local Westhampton Beach business was recently contacted by an individual seeking a donation to support the District’s athletic teams. The caller left the number (888) 218-2462. This individual is NOT affiliated with the Westhampton Beach School District and is not authorized to seek donations on the District’s behalf. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=124139 Mon, 07 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMT false124139 Seventh grade students in Christine Floegel’s study skills class at Westhampton Beach Middle School recently took part in the TOTAL (Turn Off Technology and Lead) Challenge. As part of the weeklong event, the students aimed to limit their use of nonessential cellphones, electronics and technology and engage in conversations, reading, board games, outdoor activities and other hobbies. The seventh graders participated in the challenge after completing a unit on time management, where they explored statistics related to screen time. They quickly discovered that they averaged 4.5-7 hours of phone time per day. From the class, nine were recognized for excelling in the challenge by completing 10-25 hours of activities unrelated to technology in a week. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=123867 Mon, 30 Nov 2020 05:00:00 GMT false123867 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students have embarked on a mission to show gratitude to Major William Robesch, the father of fourth grader Catherine Robesch and third grader Claire Robesch. Major Robesch is currently serving in the U.S. Air Force overseas. To bring some cheer to Major Robesch and his fellow airmen during the holiday season, two third grade classes are collecting snacks to mail. They are asking for donations of beef jerky, Life Savers candies, nuts, gum, dried fruit, individually packaged cookies and Pringles. Donations are needed by Monday, Nov. 30 and can be delivered to Westhampton Beach Elementary School. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=123792 Tue, 24 Nov 2020 05:00:00 GMT false123792 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=123546 Mon, 16 Nov 2020 05:00:00 GMT false123546 After learning about the meaning of Veterans Day, Westhampton Beach Elementary School first graders worked together to create red, white and blue letters that spelled out “Thank You Veterans.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=123489 Fri, 13 Nov 2020 05:00:00 GMT false123489 Westhampton Beach Middle School seventh grader Alexandre Schroeder recently received a surprise email response from Lian Tanner, author of “Icebreaker,” as part of an independent reading project. For the assignment in Michelle Bennett’s class, Schroeder had the option of emailing the author after reading her book. He carefully drafted a message with poignant questions, such as what inspired her to write the tale of a young outcast living on an ancient ship. Schroeder was thrilled to hear back from Tanner and receive answers to his questions. “I was surprised and happy,” he said. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=123361 Tue, 10 Nov 2020 05:00:00 GMT false123361 With yarn and knitting needles in hand, Westhampton Beach Elementary School fifth graders are learning to knit through a collaborative art project led by their art teacher, Sarah Drake. Every fifth grader, whether in-person or remote, is knitting a swatch. The completed swatches will be sewn together to create a large textile. The knitting lesson is part of a unit on textiles in which students have been exploring the works of textile artists locally and worldwide. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=123258 Fri, 06 Nov 2020 05:00:00 GMT false123258 To provide social and emotional support to students during the COVID-19 pandemic, Westhampton Beach High School has adopted the Sandy Hook Start With Hello program. During their recent physical education classes, students were introduced to the program that provides education about social isolation and how to create a connected and inclusive school and community. They were then encouraged to share positive messages on sticky notes, which are being displayed on a banner in the school. “We are hoping to use this program as a catalyst for a yearlong initiative to support social and emotional development for our students,” said Kaitlin Davis, the school’s social worker, who spearheaded the program. “The impact of COVID has forced all of us to adjust to social distancing, but our students do not have to be isolated as a result.” The goal, explained Davis, is to use the Start With Hello program to create a positive and connected school community despite the social restrictions of COVID. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=123187 Wed, 04 Nov 2020 05:00:00 GMT false123187 To gain a deeper understanding of the era in which S.E. Hinton wrote and set her bestselling novel “The Outsiders,” Westhampton Beach Middle School eighth graders ventured on a WebQuest prior to the read. A WebQuest, as defined by webquest.org, is “an inquiry-oriented lesson format in which most or all the information that learners work with comes from the web.” English teachers Donna Flaherty and Alicia Niosi, teacher Lori Reinfurt and librarian Yvonne Perez collaboratively assisted students in researching the 1960s, from cars and cultural landmarks like drive-in movie theaters to the music of the Beatles and Elvis Presley. Students also took a Google Earth tour of some iconic locations mentioned in the novel. “Whenever I read a book, I visualize everything about it — what the characters look like, what kind of clothes they wear, what hairstyles they might have, the surroundings, everything,” said student Isabelle Schneider. “This WebQuest helped me see everything like I was living in the book. I felt like I could have gone back in time and lived in the ’60s.” Fellow eighth grader Meghan Pomroy agreed. “It was like looking into a time capsule,” she said. “We got to see how things have changed since the 1960s and what the environment was like for the characters in ‘The Outsiders.’ This information can help us better understand the book and further immerse ourselves in the wonders of the time period.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=122977 Wed, 28 Oct 2020 04:00:00 GMT false122977 To raise awareness about breast cancer, Westhampton Beach High School National Honor Society members sponsored a wear pink to school campaign. On Oct. 22 and Oct. 23, all students were encouraged to wear pink in acknowledgement of breast cancer awareness month. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=122893 Fri, 23 Oct 2020 04:00:00 GMT false122893 To coincide with a unit of study on cultures around the world, third graders at Westhampton Beach Elementary School read the realistic fiction story “The Dream Catcher” to learn about the Ojibwe Native Americans. Inspired by the tale, they created their own dream catchers using paper plates, string and crayons. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=122718 Fri, 16 Oct 2020 04:00:00 GMT false122718 The Westhampton Beach Union Free School District Board of Education is seeking input from all stakeholders in our community as it starts its search for a new superintendent. By completing this brief nine item survey, your assistance will provide valuable input. The results of this survey will be used by the Westhampton Beach Board of Education in the screening of candidates. We will carefully review the results and use that as a basis for understanding the overall needs of the community. Thank you for taking the time to respond to this survey. Please submit your completed survey no later than Friday, October 16, 2020. Click here to take the survey. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=122255 Wed, 14 Oct 2020 05:00:00 GMT false122255 The Southampton Business Alliance recently presented $6,100 in scholarships to 19 juniors and seniors in the Hampton Bays, Westhampton Beach and Southampton school districts. The students are all enrolled in career and technical education programs through Eastern Suffolk BOCES. The approximate $250-$300 per student scholarships will help defray the out-of-pocket cost of tools and other gear the students are required to supply for their future studies in the “building trades,” including carpentry, HVAC, plumbing and electrical. This is the second year that the Southampton Business Alliance has provided the scholarships with the goal of helping to build a pipeline of skilled workers on the East End while helping parents with the burden of toolbox costs. Last year, the alliance provided $5,600 in scholarships. “College isn’t for everyone, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t great local jobs available,” said Sheryl Heather, Executive Director of the Southampton Business Alliance. “We are fortunate in our area to have many high-paying positions in the building trades, and to be able to make an inroad into local workforce development is a very big deal to us.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=122580 Tue, 13 Oct 2020 04:00:00 GMT false122580 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students raised $14,000 for their school through their fifth annual Hurricane Fun Run held recently. As part of the PTA-sponsored event, students obtained pledges to run laps at their school. All of the funds raised will go directly toward new outdoor learning spaces and yoga mats at the elementary school. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=122536 Thu, 08 Oct 2020 04:00:00 GMT false122536 Using pins, fabric and sewing machines, Kathleen Ciancio’s seventh and eighth grade family and consumer sciences students at Westhampton Beach Middle School put their sewing skills into practice and learned how to stitch their own face masks. After mastering mask making, the students plan to sew more for those in need. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=122464 Tue, 06 Oct 2020 04:00:00 GMT false122464 Spanish teacher Jennifer Anderson’s seventh graders at Westhampton Beach Middle School are expanding their Spanish speaking and writing skills though a new pen pal program. The students recently met their pen pals, who attend a bilingual school in Buenos Aires, Argentina, via Google Meet. Both cohorts of students spoke about their respective schools, seasonal differences, communities and how life has changed in the last six months. The students all spoke in both Spanish and English. “My students were very excited to connect with students their age from another country,” said Anderson. The seventh graders will continue to write and converse with their pen pals throughout the school year to enhance not only their Spanish language skills, but their cultural knowledge as well. The classes will also work collaboratively on global projects. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=122342 Thu, 01 Oct 2020 04:00:00 GMT false122342 Despite the challenges of COVID-19, Westhampton Beach High School sophomores Sydney Anastasia, Sean Bass and Kaitlyn Mcdermott have found creative ways to continue raising money for childhood cancer causes. Working under the name the Golden Canes, the three have raised nearly $6,000 over the past two years for organizations including Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. “It has become more challenging with COVID,” said Anastasia. “Every day, we try to think of new ways that we can raise money.” With social distancing guidelines in place, the students can’t be as interactive as they had been in the past. To adjust, they turned to social media, where they kicked off their September campaign for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Together, they started a tea fundraiser for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation’s Million Mile 2000 where donors could pledge money for the Golden Canes to run, walk or bike. The effort proved fruitful, yielding $2,300 in pledges. The students also planned and held a socially distanced yard sale and lemonade stand, where they raised another $650. The group aims to continue their philanthropic efforts this school year and beyond through a variety of fundraising campaigns, including the Macy’s Believe letter-writing campaign, in which Macy’s provides funding to Make-A-Wish for every letter to Santa that they receive. The students are also exploring ways to help the Ronald McDonald House. The Golden Canes started their mission as eighth graders heading into their freshman year. “We saw a lot of fundraisers happening and thought, what if we did something like that?” said Anastasia. “Knowing you are helping kids, even if it’s something as simple as a lunch, is a good feeling.” The group chose to focus on childhood cancer awareness, as it is an issue near and dear to Anastasia’s heart. She is a six-year survivor of lymphoma, having been diagnosed at the age of 9. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=122285 Wed, 30 Sep 2020 04:00:00 GMT false122285 Four Westhampton Beach High School seniors have been recognized as Commended Students in the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program as a result of their outstanding scores on the qualifying exam. Seniors Ellen Floegel, Joshua Kaplan, Jane Paulson and John Shannon are among 34,000 students throughout the nation to earn this distinction and be recognized for their “exceptional academic promise.” To earn the title, they placed among the top 5% of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the PSAT. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates each of these students on this prestigious accomplishment. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=122229 Tue, 29 Sep 2020 04:00:00 GMT false122229 Westhampton Beach High School seniors Josh Kaplan, Evan Lockwood and Mario Ortiz have been selected to perform with the mixed chorus at the prestigious New York State School Music Association All-State Festival, to be held virtually Dec. 3-5. Normally, students are selected based on their solo performances at NYSSMA adjudications the prior spring. However, due to COVID-19 and NYSSMA cancellations, the students were named based on scores they received during their 2018-19 adjudications. Teacher recommendations also played a role. Additionally, senior Hannah Parsons was selected as an alternate for the mixed chorus. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates each of these students on their musical accomplishments. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=122228 Fri, 25 Sep 2020 04:00:00 GMT false122228 In recognition of their exceptional achievement on national AP exams, 98 Westhampton Beach High School students have been designated as Advanced Placement Scholars. In total, 44 students were named AP Scholars, 28 earned the recognition of AP Scholar with Honor and 26 were named AP Scholars with Distinction, of whom four were also honored as National AP Scholars. To earn Scholar recognition, students are required to score a 3 or higher on three or more AP exams; for Scholar with Honor, they must earn a 3.25 on all AP exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of those exams; for Scholar with Distinction, they must receive an average score of 3.5 on all AP exams and grades of 4 or higher on five or more of those exams; and for National AP Scholar, they must receive an average score of 4 on eight or more exams. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following students: AP Scholars David Alvarado, William Barr-Forget, Brooke Bertorello, Andrew Caponi, Ian Chitty, Joseph D'Agostino, Emily D'Alessandro, Madeleine Donahue, Ella Donneson, Maureen Duffy, Valerie Finke, Courtney Fives, Casey Gallagher, Taylor Gallarello, Michael Griffin, Hannah Hendrickson, Caroline Henke, Paulina Herrera, Taylor Hertwig, Ian Hoffman, Kayla Jimenez, Luca Kubanovich, Joseph Litjens, Cole LoGelfo, Olivia Luce, Jonathan Mercurio, Ryan Miller, Oceane Ode, Hannah Parsons, Selena Pereyra, Josephine Perl, Sofia Presutti, Gisela Ribeiro, Michael Romano, Maryanne Ryan, Jefferson Sandoval, Dominic Sarno, William Scherer, Lauren Schurek, Ryan Sheehan, Daniel Stark, Emily Vignieri, Laurel Wilcenski and Jaxson Worthington AP Scholars with Honor Amanda Albert, Gavin Arcuri, Cole Cammarata, Alex Castro Cruz, James Daniels, Conor Farnan, Miranda Forney, Michael Giacchetto, Rose Hayes, Olivia Jayne, Ali Jedlicka, Matthew Kern, Cooper Kim, Alicia Linder, Evan Lockwood, Kieran Lynch, Aaron Manowitz, Aidan McKeon, Jake Mecca, Emma Monastero, Mario Ortiz, Carter Papagni, Madison Quinn, Debra Raimondi, Mia Seitles, Grant Skala, Natalia Vega and Courtney Wenzel AP Scholars with Distinction Jacqueline Amato, Lola Anderson, Justin Buonomo, Daniel Cooper, Matthew Daleo, Gavin Ehlers, Ellen Floegel, Gianna Gattuso, Patricia Gilvary, Jacqueline Glaser, Abigail Gobler, John Halloran, Jade Hawkesworth, Jade Jackey, Joshua Kaplan, Campbell Kast, Elizabeth Knieriemen, Hade Lopez, Camila Osorio, Jane Paulson, Morgan Pilo, Edona Popi, Grace Schmelzer, John Shannon, Ashley Steedman, Emma Strebel and William Zaffuto National AP Scholars Jacqueline Glaser, Jade Hawkesworth, Joshua Kaplan and Jane Paulson https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=122181 Wed, 23 Sep 2020 04:00:00 GMT false122181 The USDA is extending free meals for all students regardless of eligibility until December 31, 2020 or until federal funds last. Beginning Monday, September 21st, breakfast and lunch will be available free of charge to all our students. Students learning remotely, can pick up meals at the back of the Westhampton Beach High School from 3:30pm - 6:30pm daily. Also due to Covid concerns we will no longer be accepting cash for ala carte transactions for items like snacks and extra beverages. Funds can be added to your child's account by going to myschoolbucks.com or sending in a check payable to WHB Food Service. Thank you for your support as we navigate these changing times. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=122076 Fri, 18 Sep 2020 04:00:00 GMT false122076 September 15, 2020 Dear Westhampton Beach School Community, Thank you for such a successful first week back to learning. It was wonderful to see the children in our school buildings again after such a long absence. Our administration, faculty and staff have done an amazing job ensuring our students have a safe and healthy environment to learn in. I’m sure there will be a few challenges ahead of us, but as long as we work together as a community, we can navigate anything. As you may be aware, following more than 17 years in our district, the last nine as superintendent of schools, the Board officially accepted the resignation for retirement of Mr. Michael Radday, effective August 17, 2021. We thank Mr. Radday for his years of dedication to the Westhampton Beach schools and community. To assist in our search for the next leader of our school district, the Board of Education has contracted with Eastern Suffolk BOCES. We are searching for an experienced educational leader with a strong commitment to academic excellence who possesses outstanding communication and innovative leadership skills. As we move through this process, we will seek feedback from our community on the values and skills they prioritize in our future leader. It is important that we work in collaboration to find the superintendent of schools who will build on our already strong educational community. As always, thank you for your continued support of our schools and students. Warm Regards, Suzanne M. Mensch Board of Education President Westhampton Beach School District https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=122011 Mon, 14 Sep 2020 04:00:00 GMT false122011 A Message from Kathy Masterson, Director of Health, Physical Education & Athletics Section XI Athletic Council had decided to delay the beginning of sports to January 4, 2021. This was a difficult decision to make, however, the first and foremost importance is to have a safe and healthy learning environment for our students. We are hopeful that with time will come an opportunity to compete safely without unintended consequences. I am certain you are as disappointed as I am with this decision, however, we will forge forward and look to have our student-athletes back with their team and coaches in an environment that will be positive for all. Click here to see the announcement from Section IX. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=121925 Fri, 11 Sep 2020 04:00:00 GMT false121925 While the first day of school in Westhampton Beach was like no other due to new COVID-19 restrictions, students’ eyes smiled from above their masks as they were welcomed back by teachers, administrators and staff. Following health and safety protocols, students were ushered into the district’s buildings to begin a new year of learning. They quickly adapted to new social distancing procedures and expressed excitement as they met their new teachers and received their first school assignments of the year. “The many months of planning for the reopening of school proved successful,” said Superintendent of Schools Michael Radday. “We are thrilled to have our students back for in-person instruction.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=121828 Tue, 08 Sep 2020 04:00:00 GMT false121828 Click below to access the bus routes for 2020-2021. Please note: BOCES STUDENTS WILL BE CONTACTED DIRECTLY BY THE TRANSPORTATION CONTRACTOR TODAY WITH PICK-UP/ROUTE INFORMATION. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=121748 Fri, 04 Sep 2020 04:00:00 GMT false121748 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=121472 Wed, 19 Aug 2020 04:00:00 GMT false121472 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=121297 Mon, 10 Aug 2020 04:00:00 GMT false121297 Westhampton Beach High School students Sophie Cline and Jaden Jacino were named winners in the 18th annual Teeny Awards for the part they played in their school’s production of “Murder on the Orient Express.” The announcement was made during a virtual ceremony streamed live from the Westhampton Beach PAC on July 23. The Teeny Awards program recognizes student talent across 18 East End school districts. The Westhampton Beach School District had a total of five students named as Teeny Award nominees: Josh Kaplan, Lead Male in a Play Sophie Cline, Lead Female in a Play Molly Brennan, Supporting Female in a Play Olivia Galway, Outstanding Performer in a Play or Musical Jaden Jacino, Outstanding Poster Design https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=121126 Wed, 29 Jul 2020 04:00:00 GMT false121126 Notice: The Westhampton Beach Board of Education will hold a Special Meeting on Monday, July 27, 2020 at 4:30 p.m. in the HS Library. It is expected that the Board of Education will immediately convene to Executive Session. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=118712 Wed, 22 Jul 2020 04:00:00 GMT false118712 To ensure all stakeholders are provided with up-to-date information, the district has created a Reopening Plan webpage. The page will be continuously updated throughout the school year to provide important information to our school community. To access the reopening page and all relevant information, please visit this link. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=118638 Thu, 16 Jul 2020 04:00:00 GMT false118638 Notice: The Westhampton Beach Board of Education will hold a Special Meeting on Monday, July 13, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. in the HS Library. It is expected that the Board of Education will immediately convene to Executive Session. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=118507 Tue, 07 Jul 2020 04:00:00 GMT false118507 Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2020 graduate Chris Daleo has been named a member of the 2020 National Football Foundation Team of Distinction. He is one of 82 athletes designated from a pool of 3,500. “Chris is an amazing young man who we are extremely proud of,” said Athletic Director Kathy Masterson. “I look forward to the things he will do with his future.” During his tenure at Westhampton Beach High School, Daleo was captain of the football team and class president. He is also an AP Scholar with Distinction and will attend the University of Virginia in the fall. Daleo earned the honor not only for his athletic feats, but also his academic achievements and community involvement. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to Chris Daleo. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=118425 Tue, 30 Jun 2020 04:00:00 GMT false118425 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=118402 Tue, 30 Jun 2020 04:00:00 GMT false118402 On June 26, the Class of 2020 officially became alumni of Westhampton Beach High School during five separate ceremonies held on the school’s football field. The graduation ceremonies kept as much to Hurricane tradition as possible despite gathering limitations due to COVID-19. Wearing smiles through their masks, small groups of seniors lined up to march to “Pomp and Circumstance” as family members looked on from the stands. The students were recognized for countless achievements in academics, athletics, science, the performing and fine arts, volunteerism, entrepreneurial endeavors, activism and humanitarian efforts. During each ceremony, speakers including Principal Dr. Christopher Herr, student representatives, valedictorian Kay Horak and salutatorian Kathleen Kelly spoke of the great accomplishments of the Class of 2020 and their future. “You will forever represent this community,” Dr. Herr said. “Go out and be leaders, make a difference, be good humans who care for your neighbors. And in a world where you can be anything, be kind.” Senior class poet John Paul Ferrantino read a poem he composed, “The Sapling,” while class historian Jacob Croce spoke about memory-making events and offered, “We are all capable of doing great things. We can go anywhere.” Salutatorian Kelly followed, saying that she enjoyed her time in Westhampton Beach and it is now time to enter a new chapter. “The last 18 years have prepared us well,” she remarked. “You have the power to generate change.” Valedictorian Horak also spoke about the lessons she learned at Westhampton Beach. Referencing the last several months and the impacts of COVID, she said, “Know your darker days do not define you. Channel heavy feelings to change the world.” Before sending them off, Dr. Herr highlighted the accomplishments of the graduating class, noting that among them were 87 seniors graduating with an average of 90 or higher, 31 with an average of 95 or higher, eight National Merit Commended Students, one National Merit Scholar, two Girl Scout Gold Award recipients and five Boy Scout Eagle Scouts. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=118384 Mon, 29 Jun 2020 04:00:00 GMT false118384 Notice: The Westhampton Beach Board of Education will hold a Special Meeting on Wednesday, July 1, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. in the HS Library. It is expected that the Board of Education will immediately convene to Executive Session. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=118371 Mon, 29 Jun 2020 04:00:00 GMT false118371 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=118328 Fri, 26 Jun 2020 04:00:00 GMT false118328 Westhampton Beach High School will hold five graduation ceremonies on Friday, June 26 in accordance with the limitations imposed by the Governor in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The ceremonies will be held at 10 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm, and 6 pm. Attendance will be limited to ticket-holders only. The ceremonies will be live-streamed at the following link: https://youtu.be/v4VoI48z058 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=118307 Thu, 25 Jun 2020 04:00:00 GMT false118307 Aiming to serve the United States while receiving a great education, Westhampton Beach High School senior Emily Arpino has enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. “The missions of the Coast Guard are humanitarian, so after graduating, I will be able to contribute to saving lives, making our country’s bodies of water safer and protecting the nation,” said Arpino. She is set to report on July 8. Arpino was an active, well-rounded member of her high school community. She was on the varsity cheerleading team and was voted captain for the fall and winter seasons her senior year. She was also a competitive baton twirler. In addition, she dedicated much of her time to her school’s music department and, as a flutist, was named an alternate for the New York State School Music Association All-State Band in 2018. Arpino’s interest in humanitarian work was evidenced by her philanthropic pursuits in high school. In her junior year, she started a fundraiser for breast cancer awareness and raised over $4,000 for LI2Day by selling pink cheer bows to teams across Long Island. Through Rustic Pathways, a student travel program, she traveled to Costa Rica and Peru for community service purposes. She worked on a turtle conservation project at the Camaronal Wildlife Refuge in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, and assisted with a clean water project in the Sacred Valley in Peru. In addition, Arpino was a religious education teacher for middle schoolers and part of the Immaculate Conception Youth Leadership Ministry. “Through all these activities, I have gained leadership experience, which will carry into my career as an officer in the U.S. Coast Guard,” she said. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=118030 Wed, 17 Jun 2020 04:00:00 GMT false118030 Five Westhampton Beach High School students have been named nominees in the 18th annual Teeny Awards for the part they played in their school’s production of “Murder on the Orient Express.” The announcement was made during a virtual presentation on Facebook and Instagram Live on June 14. Awards will be presented virtually on July 23. The Teeny Awards program recognizes student talent across 18 East End school districts. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following nominees: Josh Kaplan, Lead Male in a Play Sophie Cline, Lead Female in a Play Molly Brennan, Supporting Female in a Play Olivia Galway, Outstanding Performer in a Play or Musical Jaden Jacino, Outstanding Poster Design https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=118031 Wed, 17 Jun 2020 04:00:00 GMT false118031 Thank you for your support of our 2020-2021 budget. It is through our continued partnership that our Westhampton Beach students are afforded a well-rounded education. As we all are aware, this school year has been unique. Many of our annual milestones and celebrations have either been canceled or reimagined, including high school graduation. Currently, our administrative team is working to finalize plans for multiple ceremonies to honor our Class of 2020. Our students have worked incredibly hard these past 13 years and we want to honor them in the best way possible – together and with their families present. Ultimately, however, we must follow the guidelines set forth by Gov. Cuomo, which at present limit an in-person graduation to a total of 150 people. If the guidelines are revised or the attendance cap is lifted prior to our graduation date, we will revisit and rearrange our plans as best as possible. We understand and sympathize with the frustrations of our seniors and our families. This is not the ending we imagined for the Class of 2020. However, their accomplishments as individuals and a class are still important. As we work to honor our students, we welcome you to congratulate our seniors and wish them the best in their future endeavors. Again, we thank you for your continued support. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=117992 Wed, 17 Jun 2020 04:00:00 GMT false117992 Budget Approved Presupuesto Aprobado Yes (Si): 927 NO: 314 Proposition 2: Library Budget - Approved Propisición 2: Propuesta de la Biblioteca -Aprobado Yes (Si): 895 NO: 348 Board Election (Elección Delfiducario De La Junta De Educación) Joyce Donneson – 1,050 – Incumbent, Elected/Fideicomisarios Electos Suzanne Mensch – 1,075 - Incumbent, Elected/Fideicomisarios Electos https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=117897 Tue, 16 Jun 2020 04:00:00 GMT false117897 Senior Athlete Awards https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=117841 Mon, 15 Jun 2020 22:00:00 GMT false117841 Westhampton Beach High School’s Class of 2020 was recognized with a high-spirited parade on the sunny morning of June 2. Decked out in green, the car parade of graduating seniors drove past posters on Mill Road honoring them and then circled the high school, where they were cheered on by teachers, staff and administrators. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=117493 Fri, 05 Jun 2020 04:00:00 GMT false117493 Coaches Honor Their Senior Athletes https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=115130 Mon, 01 Jun 2020 04:00:00 GMT false115130 With the curtain unable to rise on Westhampton Beach High School’s production of “Legally Blonde” due the novel coronavirus, the Westhampton Beach School District would like to acknowledge the cast, stage crew and pit orchestra who had been dedicated to perfecting the performance prior to the closure of the district’s schools. Cast Ra’Saan Ayala, Maya Bolduc, Molly Brennan, Sophie Caponi, Kylie Chieffo, Carter Cline, Sophie Cline, Kaylee Dalian, Diana Espana, Alie Fitt, Olivia Galway, Asdrubal Jimenez, Josh Kaplan, Matt Kern, Rosemari Marotta, Katie Massey, Spencer Moyle, Ella Pinonzek, Abby Rempe, Gisela Ribeiro, Alicia Rignola, Jake Sidor, Gavin Vander Schaaf, Isabel Vicente, Henry Zhiminaicela and Sofia Zhiminaicela Student Stage and Tech Crew Cassidy Connor (stage manager), Kate Massey (assistant stage manager), Jackie Massey (assistant stage manager), Isabella Alfasi, Ella Donahue, Edward Barr Forget, William Barr Forget, Sierra Davidson, Danielle Freda, Jackie Garci, Bella Giorlando, Grace Hayes, Hannah Hendrickson, Hade Lopez, Jaianna Love, Brook Messina, Melanie Meyer, Leon Muralles, Griffin Neubauer, Alex Sguazzin, Emily Solano, Alex Spizuoco, Amanda Stewart, Rachael Terry and Julia Weeks Student Pit Orchestra Amanda Albert, Dan Cooper, Skyler Dobrie, Cole Federico, Kay Horak, Ali Jedlicka, Donovan Kearns, Eric McBride, Fainne Sheehan and Dan Stark https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=114778 Fri, 15 May 2020 04:00:00 GMT false114778 Many smiles and yummy desserts were brought into the homes of Westhampton Beach students and staff as Westhampton Beach Middle School hosted its first Thursday Night Live virtual lesson with family and consumer science teacher Kathleen Ciancio on May 7. During the Zoom session, 103 attendees followed along with Ciancio to bake banana bread or muffins with chocolate chips. The lesson tied into the school’s seventh grade nutrition unit. To ensure that all participants had what they needed to bake the dessert, the school offered the ingredients during its regular lunch pickups as part of its COVID-19 lunch program. “It was a hit,” said Principal Charisse Miller. “I am so proud of my staff and the students.” The school plans to continue offering a variety of learning opportunities through the Thursday Night Live program. Students and families can participate in the next session, “Secrets of the Stones: Our Local History,” on May 15. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=114557 Mon, 11 May 2020 04:00:00 GMT false114557 To recognize its Class of 2020, the Westhampton Beach School District lined its fence along Mill Road with giant posters featuring the faces of the 224 high school seniors poised to graduate this year. The initiative was overseen by Board of Education member Stacy Rubio, whose son is among the graduating class. She previously spearheaded a sign tribute in which a green and white graduation lawn sign was delivered to each senior’s home. The posters were funded by individual families, along with assistance from the high school’s parent teacher organization. “This was so important for not only our seniors, but parents and our wonderful community,” said Rubio. Adhering to social distancing guidelines, a team of nine parent volunteers worked for several hours on May 7 to string up the posters, which seniors will get to keep when they are eventually taken down. The district has additional plans in the works to further honor the graduating class. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=114566 Mon, 11 May 2020 04:00:00 GMT false114566 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=114382 Sat, 02 May 2020 00:20:00 GMT false114382 Parents teamed up on April 25 to pay tribute to the Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2020 by delivering green and white graduation lawn signs bearing the words “Hurricane Strong.” “These seniors need to know we are proud of all they accomplished, and we haven’t forgotten about an awesome class of kids,” said Stacy Rubio, school board member and parent of a senior who led the initiative. “These seniors need to connect and smile. That is difficult with social distancing and students living in seven different towns.” After searching social media for ways to honor the Class of 2020, Rubio decided signs would be a great way to make a connection with the seniors. She garnered the support of several local businesses, which chipped in to purchase the signs. On April 25, 14 teams of parents and seniors decorated their cars and picked up the signs that were separated at socially distanced stations at the high school. They then set out to deliver 224 signs over the next several hours. The signs are only the start of plans to honor the Class of 2020. Rubio is also working with the Parent Teacher Organization on a banner initiative in which a banner for every senior will be strung for display along Mill Road. The banners are being made possible through support from Hurricane families, the PTO and district alumni. “The response and support have been heartwarming, but I had no doubt because we are Hurricane strong,” said Rubio. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=114368 Fri, 01 May 2020 04:00:00 GMT false114368 Westhampton Beach High School sophomores Maddie Donahue and Val Finke have been awarded a $500 gift card after earning an honorable mention for a video presentation they created as part of Northwell Health’s Spark Challenge. The two science research students produced a video presentation of their poster submission after the original in-person presentation that had been scheduled was canceled due to COVID-19. Their project began after they and their classmates shadowed medical professionals at Southside Hospital as part of the Spark Challenge. Using the information that they gained from that experience, they collaborated virtually to present, through video, an informative poster about cardiothoracic physician’s assistants — the career that they chose to highlight after the shadowing experience. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=114111 Tue, 21 Apr 2020 04:00:00 GMT false114111 Two Westhampton Beach High School science research students earned a High Honors designation at the New York State Science and Engineering Fair finals. Their project was one of only four in Suffolk County to earn the distinction. Juniors Matthew Daleo and Evan Lockwood earned a spot in the finals after submitting a video presentation on their science project, “Elemental Composition of Fossilized Ceratopsidae and Dromaeosauridae Teeth from the Lance Formation, Wyoming, USA.” The finals were held virtually via Zoom due to COVID-19. The students have been working on their project for the past two years under the direction of their teacher, Dianna Gobler, after participating in the Westhampton Beach Middle School’s Paleos program, where students travel out west to work alongside field researchers to unearth dinosaur bones. The Paleos program is run by middle school science teacher Rob Coleman. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=113973 Tue, 14 Apr 2020 04:00:00 GMT false113973 Two Westhampton Beach High School science research students made their way to the Intel New York State Science and Engineering Fair finals after submitting a video presentation on their science project, “Elemental Composition of Fossilized Ceratopsidae and Dromaeosauridae Teeth from the Lance Formation, Wyoming, USA.” With the win, juniors Matthew Daleo and Evan Lockwood will compete in the finals, which will be held virtually via Zoom due to COVID-19. The students have been working on their project for the past two years under the direction of their teacher, Dianna Gobler, after participating in the Westhampton Beach Middle School’s Paleos program, where students travel out west to work alongside field researchers to unearth dinosaur bones. The program is run by middle school science teacher Rob Coleman. “I am so very proud of them and all their hard work,” said Gobler. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=113810 Tue, 07 Apr 2020 04:00:00 GMT false113810 To connect with students while district schools are closed due to the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, Westhampton Beach Elementary School has been hosting morning video announcements and read alouds. The announcements feature various students reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, offering birthday wishes, providing weather reports, sharing tips to keep busy and presenting a daily challenge. Students are encouraged to send in photos and videos of how they are spending their time. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=113465 Fri, 27 Mar 2020 04:00:00 GMT false113465 Community members with questions or comments can email Mr. Radday (mradday@whbschools.org), and other members of the BOE accordingly. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=113280 Sun, 22 Mar 2020 04:00:00 GMT false113280 For technical assistance with laptops or iPads, please send an email to your (or your child's) respective school tech support, and they will respond as soon as possible. Para obtener asistencia tecnica con computadoras portatiles o iPads, envie un correo electronico a su respectivo soporte technico de la escuela (o de su hijo), y le responderan lo antes posible. High School hs_tech@whbschools.org Middle School ms_tech@whbschools.org Elementary School es_tech@whbschools.org https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=113114 Wed, 18 Mar 2020 04:00:00 GMT false113114 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=112960 Sun, 15 Mar 2020 04:00:00 GMT false112960 Click here to see all of the latest information. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=112913 Sat, 14 Mar 2020 04:00:00 GMT false112913 Members of the Westhampton Beach Middle School Mathletes team displayed their outstanding math skills at the Suffolk County MoMathlon, held at Brookhaven National Laboratory on March 6. The 10 students competed against 25 other Suffolk County teams in three rounds: individual, team mix-up and team. The seventh and eighth grade students were chosen to compete after winning a schoolwide math competition. “This year was the most challenging MoMathlon I have ever been to,” said adviser Jennifer Hinrichs. “We all learned a lot about math, working together and how to handle challenging problems.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=113432 Fri, 13 Mar 2020 04:00:00 GMT false113432 Kindergarten registration for the Westhampton Beach School District’s 2020-21 school year is almost here. The district will be registering students who will be 5 years old by Dec. 1, 2020. To register, parents or guardians must bring a photo ID, child’s proof of birth (e.g., original birth certificate, passport or baptismal certificate), immunization record, copy of a current physical examination, and custody and/or guardianship documents. Additionally, proof of residency is required. Residency proof includes one of the following: a deed; mortgage statement; current tax bill; current utility bill; notarized original lease or, if sharing a residence, notarized registration affidavit (form provided by the school district); or a copy of the homeowner’s deed or tax bill. Registration packets will be available online starting March 2 at www.westhamptonbeach.k12.ny.us. Registration dates are as follows: Wednesday, March 11, from 9-11 a.m., 1:30-2:30 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m.; and Thursday, March 12, from 9-11 a.m. and 1:30-2:30 p.m., at Westhampton Beach Elementary School, 379 Mill Road, Westhampton Beach. For questions, please contact 631-288-3800, ext. 231. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=111199 Mon, 24 Feb 2020 05:00:00 GMT false111199 Students in grades 3-5 at Westhampton Beach Elementary School rang in the new year by exploring new books during a “book tasting” event cooked up by school librarian Joy Campagna. As an authentic touch, the school’s library was transformed into a restaurant, complete with artificial candlelight, classical music and a menu featuring a variety of book genres. Students were encouraged to “taste” new books and take one home to devour. “Students left the library with books they never knew were on the shelves,” said Campagna. “They learned that you don’t know whether you like something until you try it.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=108612 Mon, 13 Jan 2020 05:00:00 GMT false108612 When Westhampton Beach High School junior Jane Paulson sat to take the ACT exam for the first time, she planned to use her results as a baseline to improve her score in the future. She was anxious and didn’t think she would do well on the college qualifying exam. Little did she know, she’d be in the top 0.03% of test takers in the country by earning a perfect score of 36. Paulson said she prepared for the ACT by taking practice exams at home and in her Junior Seminar class. She reviewed the answers she got wrong to ensure she didn’t make the same mistake again. But when she took the actual exam, she said she left feeling unconfident. Her score came as a complete surprise to her. “I wanted to do well, but couldn’t believe I got a perfect score,” she said. Paulson said she plans to continue to explore college and future career options. When not studying for her classes, including four Advanced Placement courses, she takes part in her school’s Interact Club and is on the field with her varsity softball team. She also volunteers with the Sunrise Movement, which aims to stop climate change. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=98781 Thu, 12 Dec 2019 05:00:00 GMT false98781 To mark Computer Science Education Week, held Dec. 9-15, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students each spent an hour learning code through activities provided by Code.org. Known as the Hour of Code, the experience gives students an opportunity to explore coding as the basis for a possible career in computer science. It also allows them to hone their problem-solving skills and celebrate the birthday of computing pioneer Grace Murray Hopper. Students also showed their eagerness for coding by participating in spirit days throughout the week, wearing bright colors, jeans, sneakers and Westhampton Beach spirit wear to school. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=98612 Mon, 09 Dec 2019 05:00:00 GMT false98612 Westhampton Beach High School seniors Isabelle Smith and Jack Naglieri were honored by the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance on Dec. 3 as winners of the Suffolk Zone Student Leadership Award. The pair were selected based on their excellence in physical education, leadership ability and service to the community. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=98554 Fri, 06 Dec 2019 05:00:00 GMT false98554 The eighth grade students in Kelly Russell’s critical literacy class at Westhampton Beach Middle School gave back to the Westhampton Beach School District Hurricane Foundation by organizing an escape room fundraiser on Dec. 3. The inspiration for the event began in seventh grade, when the students learned about the United Nations Messengers of Peace program as part of their curriculum. Expanding on the lesson this year, they decided to organize and plan the fundraiser, which raised more than $800. The students designed an escape room around the theme of “evil science lab.” Participants were given clues and moved through 10 rooms to solve riddles, find a blueprint and race back to the school’s cafeteria to crack the final code. The event also included a student-run bake sale and a photo booth featuring various props. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=98537 Thu, 05 Dec 2019 05:00:00 GMT false98537 Westhampton Beach High School science research students had the opportunity to learn more about the research process from accomplished paleontologist John Hankla on Nov. 22. During the informal discussion, Hankla spoke to students about his career and offered them advice, as they are working on a variety of research projects. The students also heard from members of the Staffer family, whose Wyoming ranch is littered with dinosaur bones. For many of the students, this was not their first meeting with Hankla. He has worked with them in the past through Westhampton Beach Middle School’s PALEOS program, where students visit the Badlands in the summer to dig for dinosaur bones alongside experts. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=98415 Mon, 02 Dec 2019 05:00:00 GMT false98415 Find out what Westhampton Beach Elementary School students are thankful for in this short video. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=98347 Wed, 27 Nov 2019 05:00:00 GMT false98347 Dr. Dianna Gobler’s science research students at Westhampton Beach High School learned more about careers in cardiothoracic surgery while touring Southside Hospital in Bay Shore on Nov. 12. The students explored the hospital’s operating rooms and met with three surgeons, one of whom did the first heart transplant on Long Island, as well as an anesthesiologist and several cardiac physician assistants. Additionally, selected students have been invited back to the hospital to shadow some of the professionals they met and to watch a live heart surgery. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=94816 Fri, 15 Nov 2019 05:00:00 GMT false94816 Westhampton Beach High School students in Korey Williams’ History of Long Island class took a trip back in time on Nov. 7 when they visited the Westhampton Beach Historical Society. During the adventure, the students viewed the society’s 75th anniversary D-Day exhibit and examined local contributions from World War II, including photos, uniforms and medals. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=94815 Thu, 14 Nov 2019 05:00:00 GMT false94815 Science research and environmental science students at Westhampton Beach High School recently participated in a clam reseeding and research cruise on Weesuck Creek in East Quogue. Held aboard a Stony Brook Research vessel, the trip taught students more about local waterways as they planted thousands of clams in the spawner sanctuary to help replenish depleted clam beds. For some, it was also an opportunity to further their own research projects. Sophomores Val Finke and Maddie Donahue collected macroalgae for their alternative fuels project, while senior Danielle Freda collected shellfish and surface water samples to quantify microplastic particle contamination. The trip culminated with a tour of the Stony Brook Southampton Marine Station, where students learned about ongoing Stony Brook University research projects and had the unique opportunity to feed an octopus. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=94776 Wed, 13 Nov 2019 05:00:00 GMT false94776 Westhampton Beach High School students participated in several Red Ribbon Week activities, organized by the school’s Youth to Youth Club, during the week of Nov. 4. All activities were based on the themes of saying no to drugs, making positive choices and team building. Youth to Youth members shared awareness messages with their peers throughout the week, distributed silicone “Drug Free” bracelets, placed red ribbons on seniors’ cars, and sponsored a crashed car session where school resource officer Andrew Kirwin spoke to students about the dangers of drinking and driving. In addition, all students signed a banner pledging to stay drug- and alcohol-free. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=94746 Tue, 12 Nov 2019 05:00:00 GMT false94746 In honor of Veterans Day, Westhampton Beach High School history students heard from several veterans with the Westhampton Beach VFW Post 5350 on Nov. 8. Throughout the day, the veterans took turns talking to students about their time in the military. The students thanked their honored guests for their service and listened carefully about the sacrifices they had made. Among the veterans who visited were Peter Cothbert, Tom Quinn and Al Sparrow. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=94690 Mon, 11 Nov 2019 05:00:00 GMT false94690 Eight Westhampton Beach High School students have been selected to perform in prestigious music festivals based on their solo performances at New York State School Music Association adjudications last spring. Cole Federico was chosen to perform with the NYSSMA All-State Symphonic Band and the NYSCAME All-County Symphony Orchestra; Joshua Kaplan was named to the NYSCAME All-County Symphonic Band; Evan Lockwood, Jocelyn McNamara, Spencer Moyle and Mario Ortiz were selected for the NYSCAME All-County Mixed Chorus; and Kiley Kaiser and Hannah Parson will perform with the NYSCAME All-County Treble Choir. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates each of these students on their musical accomplishments. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=94342 Thu, 31 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT false94342 A packed stadium cheered and danced as the Westhampton Beach School District culminated a week of homecoming spirit activities with a celebratory football game on Oct. 25. Dressed in green and white, the crowd threw support to the Hurricanes as they took on the Eastport-South Manor Sharks, winning the game with a final score of 21-7. Cheerleaders put on an outstanding performance at halftime and then cheered alongside their younger counterparts from the elementary school cheer program. Leading up to the game, students took part in themed days and a high school battle of the classes that raised money for the high school student government’s Adopt-A-Family program. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=94322 Wed, 30 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT false94322 Although Westhampton Beach High School had to cancel its annual homecoming parade due to ongoing construction on Main Street, school spirits weren’t dampened. Instead of a parade, the school’s student government hosted a successful battle of the classes that raised money for its annual holiday Adopt-A-Family program. “It was such a success that we hope to keep it going in the future,” said student council co-adviser Dariah Luciano. Held Oct. 21, the battle featured several events for freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors, including a field goal competition, a tic-tac-toe relay, cornhole, musical chairs, a three-legged race, a 4x200 relay, tug or war and other field day-type events. Students paid $20 each for a shirt and to participate. In total, $350 was raised for Adopt-A-Family. Participants also brought nonperishable goods that were donated to the Ronald McDonald House. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=94151 Tue, 29 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT false94151 Thanks to the Southampton Town PBA and Kait’s Angels, Westhampton Beach Elementary School now has a buddy bench. The new bench, which sits on the school’s playground, aims to foster friendship among students. It was officially presented to the school on Oct. 18 during a schoolwide assembly, where student council members spoke of its importance. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=94150 Mon, 28 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT false94150 Students in environmental and marine science classes at Westhampton Beach High School participated in a “Day in the Life of a River” project on Oct. 18 at Squire Pond in Hampton Bays. While on the field trip, the students collected data on biodiversity and water quality as part of a multiyear study by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the nonprofit Peconic Baykeeper. They gained hands-on field techniques as they collected samples of water and invertebrates and examined the physical and chemical aspects of the river. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=92879 Mon, 21 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT false92879 Westhampton Beach Elementary School took part in National Fire Prevention Week during the week of Oct. 7. Along with in-school lessons on fire safety, students watched a fire safety video featuring Timon and Pumbaa from “The Lion King” and heard from members of the Westhampton Beach Fire Department. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=92610 Tue, 15 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT false92610 Westhampton Beach Elementary School held a ribbon-cutting for its new outdoor Project Fit activity center, aka the Pit, on the breezy afternoon of Oct. 4. During the ceremony, school administrators thanked the Peconic Bay Medical Center and Project Fit America for providing grant funding for the new fitness center, which will be used during gym periods. A group of students demonstrated proper use of the equipment that will be used, along with a set of lesson plans. The equipment includes pull-up bars, a pole climb, parallel and vault bars, sit-up stations and a horizontal ladder. The new fitness program is being coupled with the district’s healthy eating program, in which students are learning to grow fresh foods in the school’s greenhouse. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=92609 Fri, 11 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT false92609 To further engage sixth grade students in reading, Westhampton Beach Middle School is participating in a global read aloud. The initiative is asking students to read “The Bridge Home” by Padma Venkatraman and engage in activities related to the book along with their peers around the world. Already, the sixth graders have made virtual connections through the read aloud sessions with students in Canada, California, Virginia and Massachusetts. They are scheduled to meet the author via Skype in November. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=92608 Thu, 10 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT false92608 Do you know how headstones got their name? Or that Judge Harold Medina (1888-1990) paid Westhampton Beach students to capture tent caterpillars because the pests were killing the village’s trees? Westhampton Beach Elementary School fourth graders learned the answers to these questions and more during an annual trip to the Westhampton Cemetery on Sept. 27. The students, who have been studying local history in class, were given a robust lesson on their community’s past from members of the Westhampton Beach Historical Society. Divided into groups, the fourth graders visited several gravestones, where historians discussed the prominent residents who were buried there and shared interesting facts about their lives as they pertained to Westhampton Beach. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=92348 Thu, 03 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT false92348 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students raised more than $19,000 for their school through their fourth annual Hurricane Fun Run, held Sept. 19. As part of the PTA-sponsored event, students gathered pledges to run laps on the high school football field. All of the funds raised will go directly toward cultural and academic enrichment programs at the elementary school. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=92347 Wed, 02 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT false92347 Wanting to do something to assist those in the Bahamas affected by Hurricane Dorian, the Westhampton Beach High School girls varsity soccer team kicked off a collection drive in early September. As a result of their efforts, the team packed out a full car with donations, including clothing, gently used soccer gear, toiletries and more. All collections will be delivered to those in need in the Bahamas. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=92273 Fri, 27 Sep 2019 04:00:00 GMT false92273 In recognition of their exceptional achievement on national AP exams, 85 Westhampton Beach students have earned the title of Advanced Placement Scholar. In total, 40 students were named AP Scholars, 19 earned the recognition of AP Scholar with Honor and 26 were named AP Scholars with Distinction, of whom four were also honored as National AP Scholars. To earn Scholar recognition, students are required to score a 3 or higher on three or more AP exams; for Scholar with Honor, students must earn a 3.25 on all AP exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of those exams; for the Scholar with Distinction award, students must receive an average score of 3.5 on all AP exams and grades of 4 or higher on five or more of those exams; and for National AP Scholar designation, students must receive an average score of 4 on eight or more exams. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following students: AP Scholars Alex Alford, Lola Anderson, Clayton Arcuri, Jessie Boskamp, Molly Brennan, Andrew Caponi, Ian Chitty, Christopher Daleo, Rieve Delisle, Ellen Floegel, Miranda Forney, Danielle Freda, Casey Gallagher, John Hoffman, Cooper Kim, Elizabeth Knierieman, Matthew Leotta, Alicia Linder, Evan Lockwood, Hade Lopez, Kieran Lynch, Aaron Manowitz, Kellen Meade, Marley Merrihew, Emma Monastero, Dylan Nijankin, Mario Ortiz, Emma Payes, Niall Regan, Mia Seitles, Marley Slotkin, Isabelle Smith, Julia Smith, Avery Solomon, Coady Sumwalt, Isabella Tobin, Natalia Vega, Emily Vignieri, Julia Weeks and Courtney Wenzel AP Scholars with Honor Emily Arpino, William Barr-Forget, Sofia Brizius, Tristan Coen, Jennifer Curran, Halle Dixon, Luke Farnan, John Halloran, Jade Jackey, Joshua Kaplan, James O’Neill, Jane Paulson, Edona Popi, Gage Rubio, Grace Schmelzer, Alexandra Schurek, John Shannon, Emma Strebel and Hanna Tufano AP Scholars with Distinction Jasmine Agme, Sophie Cline, Jacob Croce, Richard Federico, John Paul Ferrantino, Rachel Frank, Jacqueline Glaser, Yunushan Gulsen, Jade Hawkesworth, Jake Hoffman, Kay Horak, Kathleen Kelly, Donovan Kerns, Matthew Lambert, Kathryn Massey, Eric McBride, Jocelyn McNamara, Jason Montagna, Spencer Moyle, Ellen Murphree, Nicholas Murphy, Rose Peruso, Siobhan Pesce, Pierce Rosen-Keith, Ashley Steedman and Sophie Waszkelewicz National AP Scholars John Paul Ferrantino, Kay Horak, Kathleen Kelly and Pierce Rosen-Keith https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=92186 Thu, 26 Sep 2019 13:00:00 GMT false92186 Eight Westhampton Beach High School seniors have been recognized as Commended Students in the 2020 National Merit Scholarship Program as a result of their outstanding scores on the qualifying exam. The seniors are among 34,000 students throughout the nation to earn this distinction and be recognized for their “exceptional academic promise.” To earn the title, they placed among the top 5% of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2020 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the PSAT. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to the following students: Sofia Brixius, Sophie Cline, Kathleen Kelly, Eric McBride, Jocelyn McNamara, Nicholas Murphy, Siobhan Pesce and Pierce Rosen-Keith. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=92185 Wed, 25 Sep 2019 13:00:00 GMT false92185 The Westhampton Beach School District is pleased to announce that Westhampton Beach High School student Kay Horak has been selected as a semifinalist in the 2020 National Merit Scholarship Program. Horak, a senior, is among the approximately 16,000 semifinalists nationwide who qualified for the honor based on their high PSAT scores. She will continue in the competition for some 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth about $33 million. Horak, who intends to pursue a science-related field in college, is president of her school’s Key Club and a member the National Honor Society and jazz ensemble. She also participates in her school’s theater productions and volunteers at the Quogue Wildlife Refuge. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=92184 Tue, 24 Sep 2019 04:00:00 GMT false92184 Students in the Westhampton Beach School Districts got up close and personal with a baby great white shark during a unique lesson on Sept. 10. During the lesson, science teacher Matthew Berkhout laid out the shark, which was recently found deceased on the shores of Fire Island, on a table for students to examine. Berkhout described the anatomy of the shark, answered questions and discussed the field research he conducts with his team as part of the South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center’s (SOFO) Shark Research and Education Program. The shark will soon be shipped to NOAA Fisheries’ Narragansett Laboratory in Narragansett, Rhode Island for further analysis. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=90799 Fri, 13 Sep 2019 04:00:00 GMT false90799 Westhampton Beach students became acquainted with their new teachers, routines and programs as they kicked off the 2019-20 school year on Sept. 4. Staff members cheerfully greeted the eager elementary school students upon their arrival and escorted them to their new classrooms. The students got right to work, setting up their supplies, making new friends and learning more about their weekly schedules. Middle and high school students began their year of learning by taking part in organization lessons and engaging activities. Some middle schoolers, for example, worked together in the school’s technology room to construct towers using paper and tape, while down the hall, others were setting up their binders. “We are looking forward to a year filled with outstanding academic and extracurricular opportunities for our students,” said Superintendent of Schools Michael Radday. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=90623 Thu, 05 Sep 2019 04:00:00 GMT false90623 Six Westhampton Beach High School students have been collecting and analyzing data on a variety of subjects as part of Brookhaven National Laboratory’s SPARK summer research program. The students attend the program twice a week and will culminate their scientific research with a poster presentation on Aug. 15. The projects include “Microplastics in the Atmosphere” by Lola Anderson; “Elemental Composition of Dinosaur Fossils” by Matthew Daleo, Jade Hawkesworth and Evan Lockwood; “Heavy Metal Contamination of Kelp Species” by Keiran Lynch; and “Microplastics in Drinking Water” by Eric McBride. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=90272 Wed, 14 Aug 2019 04:00:00 GMT false90272 Four Westhampton Beach High School students returned to the Badlands in July to continue work they started as part of Westhampton Beach Middle School’s PALEOS program, led by science teacher Robert Coleman. High schoolers Julia Blydenburgh, Matt Daleo, Josh Kaplan and Griffin Scheuer, along with high school science research teacher Dr. Dianna Gobler, spent a week in the field acquiring data, formulating hypotheses and connecting with scientists to learn from their expertise. The students also visited the Black Hills Institute of Geological Research in South Dakota and prospected and uncovered 50 specimens in an attempt to identify potential “paleo-forest” locales within the Lance Formation in northeastern Wyoming. In addition, they helped to repair and reconstruct a triceratops orbital horn, created two casts of the Saurexallopus zerbsti track from the Zerbst Ranch Trackway, visited the Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming and attended the seventh annual Dino Shindig in Ekalaka, Montana. The students will apply what they learned on this trip to individual research projects ranging from Cretaceous turtles, to carnivorous versus herbivorous teeth from dinosaurs, to insects seen in the late Cretaceous Period based on tooth margins. “The level of maturity and high-level thinking demonstrated by these students is truly commendable,” said Coleman. “They engaged in sophisticated discussions with scientists and represented the true spirit of our school community.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=89090 Wed, 07 Aug 2019 04:00:00 GMT false89090 The New York State Public High School Athletic Association has recognized Westhampton Beach High School as a 2018-19 Scholar-Athlete School of Distinction. To earn this recognition, 100% of the school’s varsity teams were required to earn Scholar-Athlete Team recognition during the 2018-19 school year. To become a Scholar-Athlete Team, a team must hold a GPA above 90%. Westhampton Beach is one of 35 schools across New York State to earn the Scholar-Athlete School of Distinction designation. The Westhampton Beach School District extends its congratulations to all 21 varsity teams that made this recognition possible. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=86200 Wed, 24 Jul 2019 04:00:00 GMT false86200 Westhampton Beach students are spending their summer mornings learning and playing as part of the district’s summer recreation program, which runs through the month of July. During the four-week program, held at Westhampton Beach Elementary School, students in grades K-8 participate in a wide variety of activities, including science, computers, crafts and sports. For the first time, students are also spending time in the school’s greenhouse. Two days a week, the students learn to plant and harvest a variety of crops. High school students volunteer to assist with the program. The summer program also provides an opportunity for incoming kindergartners to get acquainted with their new school and for older students and special education students to work on their academics through extended learning opportunities. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=86147 Fri, 19 Jul 2019 04:00:00 GMT false86147 The 2018-19 school year was filled with many accomplishments. Watch this short video to find out more. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=86138 Thu, 18 Jul 2019 04:00:00 GMT false86138 Westhampton Beach Middle School students spent a week digging for dinosaur bones as part of the school’s PALEOS program, led by teacher Rob Coleman. It was the third annual trip to private and federal lands within the Lance Creek Formation of northeastern Wyoming for this educational program. As part of the adventure, held June 30 through July 7, 11 students, with the assistance of researchers, learned how to collect and transport fossils from the field, prospect and find fossil remains, assemble skeletal remains, clean and repair fossils in the lab, and store and catalog fossils in museum storage areas. “The PALEOS student researchers had a phenomenal field experience this year,” said Coleman. “They have been ‘touched by the Badlands,’ truly appreciating the beauty and magnanimity of America’s West.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=86093 Mon, 15 Jul 2019 04:00:00 GMT false86093 On June 28, hundreds gathered in the stands on the football field to applaud the Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2019. The students were recognized for seemingly countless achievements in academics, athletics, science, performing and fine arts, volunteerism, entrepreneurial endeavors, activism, and humanitarian efforts. During the commencement ceremony, speakers including Principal Dr. Christopher Herr, Superintendent of Schools Michael Radday, Board of Education President Susan Mensch, student representatives, valedictorian Christopher Nathan Bender and salutatorian Frank Murphy Lapinski spoke of the students’ personal and academic growth. “Take the world by storm, work hard and never forget you are from Hurricane country,” Dr. Herr said. Senior class historian Anna Sophia Peraino detailed a few of the memory-making events that brought the students closer through the years, as well as the funnier side of the that growth, such as getting their driver’s licenses and “illegally” parking in the elementary school lot. Summing up, she said graduation day was bittersweet, and borrowed words from the band Scorpion, “you’ll go far if you keep rockin’ like a hurricane.” Mr. Lapinski picked up the thread, offering his own take on their years together. “Through work and constant change, we have learned to turn dreams into reality.” He will attend The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania in the fall. Mr. Bender, too, recounted their experiences, on the lacrosse and football fields and off, and shared his confidence that the foundation they built at Westhampton Beach would enable them to continue to make their mark on the world. He will pursue a biochemistry degree at Williams College. The ceremony also featured a poetry reading by Richard Kern, Senior Class Poet, and performances by the high school chorus and band and recognized Jane Isabel Alavez and Christina Nguyen Marsicano who have enlisted in the U.S Army and U.S Marine Corp., respectively. After accepting their diplomas, and tossing their caps, the Hurricane’s mascot led the students off the football field towards their next chapter of success. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=85213 Mon, 01 Jul 2019 04:00:00 GMT false85213 Donning white and green caps and gowns, members of the Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2019 proudly marched through the halls of their former elementary school on June 24, both to reminisce about their early school days and to provide inspiration to current students. As they took the traditional senior walk, the elementary students cheered, clapped and held up signs of congratulations. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=85069 Wed, 26 Jun 2019 05:00:00 GMT false85069 Westhampton Beach Elementary School second graders closed out a yearlong recycling campaign, in which they recycled more than 9,000 water bottles, by presenting a donation of $466.55 to the Westhampton Beach Historical Society on June 24. They chose to assist the historical society after taking a field trip to its headquarters earlier in the school year. The recycling project was inspired by the school’s “Leader in Me” character education program. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=85025 Wed, 26 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT false85025 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students culminated their yearlong “Leader in Me” character education program with a parade around the school on June 24. They marched with colorful banners that showcased the principles they had learned through the program, which aims to teach students to understand and practice the “seven habits of happy kids” based on Stephen Covey’s books “The Leader in Me” and “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” and Sean Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Happy Kids.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=85024 Tue, 25 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT false85024 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=84946 Mon, 24 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT false84946 Westhampton Beach Elementary School’s principals, teachers, staff and students were surprised to learn on June 11 that their school is the recipient of a fitness grant from Peconic Bay Medical Center and Project Fit America. Through the grant, the school will receive teacher training, lesson plans, and new indoor and outdoor fitness equipment. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=84697 Wed, 19 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT false84697 Dianne Gobler’s science students at Westhampton Beach High School observed trained surgeons from Saint Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, New Jersey, perform a live kidney transplant on June 11. The virtual experience, made possible through the Liberty Science Center, allowed the students to ask questions and hear from the surgeons, not unlike the observations regularly done by medical students. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=84696 Tue, 18 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT false84696 Westhampton Beach Elementary School held an open house at its greenhouse on June 4 to showcase the budding gardening skills of all students. Students provided information on the greenhouse to parents and community members by manning several stations, including ones related to composting, planting and caring for vegetable sprouts. The students have been learning about gardening since January though a PTA-sponsored program in which they visit the greenhouse several times a month to learn from farm educator Renato Stafford, owner of Homegrown Organic Food, Inc. They grew arugula, broccoli rabe and spinach microgreens during the winter and are now working on growing tomatoes and other vegetables. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=84450 Wed, 12 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT false84450 Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2019 valedictorian Chris Bender was honored at the Suffolk County School Superintendents Association’s 25th annual Valedictorian Luncheon, held at Villa Lombardi’s in Holbrook on May 30. During the event, he was presented with a certificate and gift of recognition. He is pictured with his parents and district administrators. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=84449 Tue, 11 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT false84449 In this short video, the Class of 2031 provides some pointers to the graduating Class of 2019. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=84303 Mon, 10 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT false84303 Concluding a community service project, the Westhampton Beach Middle School Builders Club donated $620 to the Southampton Animal Shelter on May 30. The students raised the money during the school year through a variety of holiday fundraisers, which included selling Halloween stickers and Valentine’s Day lollipops and hosting an Easter egg hunt. Along with the monetary donation, the students made toys for the shelter’s animals using old T-shirts. Pictured, from left, are club members Kate Pomroy, Reed Terry, Richard Ramirez, Jayson Kampfer, Danyil Mihal, Cole Dawson, Aiden Goleski-Crehan and Nathan O'Hara with Jennifer Wojtas of the Southampton Animal Shelter. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=84306 Sun, 09 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT false84306 During a candle-lighting ceremony on June 4, 45 Westhampton Beach High School juniors were inducted into the National Honor Society, one of the oldest and most prestigious national organizations for students. To be eligible for membership, the students were required to have and maintained an unweighted grade point average of 92 or better; meet the standards of leadership, service, citizenship and character; and complete 45 hours of community service. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following inductees:Jasmine R. Agme, Clayton J. Arcuri, Emily E. Arpino, Molly R. Brennan, Blake R. Busking, Nick Chen, Sophie C.T. Cline, Jacob M. Croce, Jennifer P. Curran, Christopher Daleo, Halle M. Dixon, Richard C. Federico, John Paul Ferrantino, Rachel J. Frank, Danielle M. Freda, Yunushan Gulsen, Grace M. Hayes, Jake T. Hoffman, Kay A. Horak, Kathleen E. Kelly, Donovan P. Kerns, Matthew J. Lambert, Matthew A. Leotta, Sydnie-Marie D. Mason, Kathryn E. Massey, Jocelyn C. McNamara, Jason A. Montagna, Spencer W. Moyle, Ellen C. Murphree, Nicholas B. Murphy, Jack Naglieri, Dylan A. Nijankin, Rose E. Peruso, Isabella C. Quinones, Pierce A. Rosen-Keith, Gage D. Rubio, Joseph A. Sarno, Alexandra F. Schurek, Isabelle M. Smith, Julia K. Smith, Avery B. Solomon, Julie-Anna P. Stollow, Hanna J. Tufano, Sophie G. Waszkelewicz, Julia P. Weeks https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=84305 Sat, 08 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT false84305 Students in Josh Tuttle’s class at Westhampton Beach Middle School have embarked on a collaborative learning project with middle schoolers in Wooster, Connecticut, as part of a study on the Civil War. With the aid of Google Hangouts and Docs, Tuttle’s students are working alongside their Connecticut counterparts to research and prepare projects on the main battles and political causes of the Civil War, as well as its chief figures and key writings. The students will present their research via Skype in June. The lesson has not only allowed the students to delve more deeply into their Civil War studies, Tuttle noted, but is also providing them with an opportunity to practice communicating remotely. “More and more companies are offering opportunities for employees to work remotely, and colleges offer online classes where students work together online,” he pointed out. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=84180 Wed, 05 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT false84180 High school seniors from Westhampton Beach High School who have committed to entering the military upon graduation were honored at a joint ceremony with Hampton Bays and Southampton School Districts at Hampton Bays High School on May 31. During the formal event, which was the first of its kind, the two Westhampton Beach seniors were presented with proclamations, an American flag to be flown above their respective schools, a commemorative plaque and a $250 scholarship. Their families were given blue star flags. The ceremony kicked off with a musical military tribute by the Hampton Bays Symphonic Band, followed by several speakers taking the podium to offer congratulations and well wishes. Among them was keynote speaker Andrew Sierra (retired) of the United States Marine Corps. The idea to host this ceremony stemmed from a similar event created by the Our Community Salutes organization. The nonprofit began hosting thank-you events after its members realized they didn’t have an opportunity to say thank you to a young service member who was killed in action. Preceding the ceremony was a buffet breakfast prepared by students of the Hampton Bays Culinary Arts program. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the following seniors who will be entering military service: United States Army Jane Alavez, Westhampton Beach United States Marine Corps Christina Marsicano, Westhampton Beach https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=84179 Tue, 04 Jun 2019 04:00:00 GMT false84179 Twelve science students from Westhampton Beach High School attended Molloy College’s Women in Science Symposium on May 22. During the event, the students heard from renowned scientists, including keynote speaker Dr. Sylvia Earle, who discussed their lives and research. “The symposium sparked a great deal of discussion and ideas among the students. It was a great opportunity,” said science teacher Dianna Gobler. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=84011 Wed, 29 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT false84011 Westhampton Beach Elementary School celebrated the arrival of spring with its annual PTA-sponsored spring formal lunch on May 21. Dressed to the nines in bright spring outfits and surrounded by colorful flowers and balloons, students enjoyed a lunch of chicken and noodles followed by a dessert of brownies. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=83874 Fri, 24 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT false83874 Westhampton Beach High School students Evan Lockwood and Matthew Daleo received a high honors award at the Long Island Science Congress Senior Division Awards Ceremony on May 20. It was the second highest award bestowed during the event. The pair earned the recognition for their research project, “Biodiversity of Pre-Cretaceous Vertebrates at the Lance Formation, Wyoming, USA.” The sophomores, who have been working on their project under the direction of science teacher Dianna Gobler, collected fossil samples they used for their research during a school trip to Wyoming with science teacher Rob Coleman. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=83837 Thu, 23 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT false83837 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=83730 Wed, 22 May 2019 01:00:00 GMT false83730 Budget Approved Presupuesto Aprobado Yes (Si) 243 No (No) 65 Board Election Elección Delfiducario De La Junta De Educación Stacy Rubio 283 * *Elected/Fideicomisarios Electos Proposition 2: Library Budget - Approved Propisición 2: Propuesta de la Biblioteca -Aprobado Yes (Si) 224 No (No) 84 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=83737 Tue, 21 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT false83737 The Westhampton Beach Board of Education acknowledged the accomplishments of Class of 2019 valedictorian Chris Bender and salutatorian Frank Lapinski at its May 13 meeting. The two seniors earned the top spots in their class through their impressive commitment to academics. They have also been active members of their school community, participating in numerous extracurricular activities. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=83560 Thu, 16 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT false83560 Students in Kirsten Mett’s broadcast journalism class at Westhampton Beach High School earned two first-place trophies for their “Hurricane Watch” broadcast news program at the third annual Broadcast Awards for Senior High, held May 3 at Stony Brook University. The awards highlight the achievements of high school broadcast programs across Long Island. Earning first place in the Best Sports Package category were Jake Bennett, Alec Gilbride and Clarke Lewis. Emma Lagattolla, Morgan Laube and Paige Rignola took the same top honor for Best School News. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates the “Hurricane Watch” crew on a job well done. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=83454 Tue, 14 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT false83454 In celebration of National Poetry Month, Westhampton Beach Middle School students participated in a blackout poetry contest, spearheaded by librarian Yvonne Perez. For the contest, students created poems by circling specific words, and redacting others, from pages taken out of torn or damaged library books. The district congratulates the winners Lauren Nathan, first place for Best Overall Poem; Mia Valenzuela, second place for Best Overall Poem; Hollie McAllister, first place for Best Artistic Poem; and Brooke Donahue, second place for Best Artistic Poem. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=83103 Wed, 08 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT false83103 2019 Summer Recreation Program https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=83158 Tue, 07 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT false83158 As a symbol of their commitment to the pursuit of higher education, the Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2019 wore apparel to show off their choice of college on May 1. The class will be heading to a number of premier schools this fall to begin their postsecondary studies, including Binghamton, Cornell, NYU, Pace and Yale. Principal Dr. Christopher Herr expressed his pride in the class, noting, “They worked incredibly hard to achieve at the highest levels [and] have made their mark on Westhampton Beach High School.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=83102 Mon, 06 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT false83102 In recognition of Poem in Your Pocket Day, part of National Poetry Month, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students took part in poetry-related activities on April 18. One activity included carrying their favorite poems in peel-and-stick pockets and sharing them with their peers. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=82751 Wed, 01 May 2019 04:00:00 GMT false82751 To teach students about various aspects of wellness, Westhampton Beach Elementary School held a wellness week during the week of April 8. Throughout the week, students participated in a variety of healthy activities and theme days that extended to their homes as part of a healthy homework initiative. They learned to make healthy snacks, took part in physical activities – including Walk to School Day and yoga sessions – and participated in mental health discussions, including learning how to “calm your butterflies.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=82688 Tue, 30 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT false82688 After practicing hard all year, Westhampton Beach Elementary School third graders put on a recorder concert for friends and family on April 16. The students delightfully performed several pieces, including “Hot Cross Buns,” “Merrily We Roll Along,” “The Grand Old Duke of York” and “Lightly Row.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=82687 Mon, 29 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT false82687 Westhampton Beach Middle School students met primatologist and anthropologist Jane Goodall over a Skype call on April 11. They learned about Goodall’s love of animals, how she became interested in studying chimpanzees, her foundation, Roots & Shoots, and how every person can play a role in preserving the planet. At the end of the call, the students were excited to take a photo with her. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=82535 Tue, 16 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT false82535 This year, Westhampton Beach Elementary School adopted a new character education program, The Leader in Me. The new program provides comprehensive leadership activities and challenges that are woven into curriculum. The goal is to teach students to understand and practice the “seven habits of happy kids.” The program, which is transforming schools across the country, is all-encompassing and introduces language that is incorporated into daily routines. Through the activities, students will learn and understand the seven habits, including: be proactive; begin with the end in mind; put first things first; think win-win; seek first to understand, then be understood; synergize; and sharpen the saw. Learn more in this short video. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=82456 Mon, 15 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT false82456 Westhampton Beach High School Science Research students presented their research projects at the Long Island Science Congress competition, held April 10 at St. Anthony’s High School. The 16 students have been working on their extensive research under the direction of science teacher Dr. Dianna Gobler. Research topics included microplastic accumulation in sediments and shellfish, the elemental composition of paleontological samples and nicotine’s effect on the behavior of Caenorhabditis elegans, among others. Results of the competition will be available in May. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=82429 Fri, 12 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT false82429 As part of a study of sculpture, seventh graders at Westhampton Beach Middle School recently created original clay Imperial eggs. The students in Erin Jacob’s art class studied the historical beginnings of Faberge’s famous Imperial eggs and were then tasked with designing and constructing their own Imperial eggs that incorporated a theme, a stand and an element of surprise. The students were very creative with their designs: One created an egg that revealed hidden gems inside, another made a bee egg that holds a gold honeypot, and another fabricated an egg emerging as a flower with a delicate butterfly about to land on its petals. “The project provided a great opportunity for students to create and problem-solve in 3D,” said Jacob. “It also allowed me to tie culture and history into the unit to strengthen their connection to the world around them.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=82298 Thu, 11 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT false82298 Westhampton Beach High School Science Research students Jack Halloran, Evan Lockwood, Jane Paulson, Casey Gallagher, Jade Hawkesworth and Matt Daleo recently participated in the Medical Marvels competition hosted by the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research at Northwell Health in Manhasset. As part of the competition, the students were challenged to find a solution to a major health issue in New York State: vaping in schools. The students, under the direction of teacher Dr. Dianna Gobler, designed a plan that included infrared technology and microchips in student identification cards to reduce incidents of vaping in high-use areas. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=82297 Wed, 10 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT false82297 In an effort to provide students with downtime during the school day, Westhampton Beach Elementary School now features sensory paths in several of its hallways. The paths are marked with colorful decals that prompt students to jump, spin, squat, hop, count and spell. “We encourage movement throughout the day,” said Principal Lisa Slover. “The paths are just another opportunity for students to get a bit of energy out and take a break.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=82184 Tue, 09 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT false82184 To raise awareness about autism, Westhampton Beach Elementary School is celebrating National Autism Awareness Month throughout the month of April. Students designed hallway bulletin boards that displayed their knowledge of autism and kicked off the initiative by wearing blue to school on April 1. Throughout the month, they will continue to learn about autism and take part in lessons and activities, including decorating autism awareness puzzle pieces. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=82183 Mon, 08 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT false82183 Westhampton Beach Elementary School’s Odyssey of the Mind team recently competed in the Odyssey of the Mind state finals at SUNY Binghamton. They proudly placed sixth. The seven fifth-graders procured the placement after competing against 18 teams from across the state. Led by coach and teacher Lynne Marshall, the team used their creativity, problem-solving and acting skills to formulate a long-term solution to a problem created by competition organizers. This year’s problem required the team to create an original performance depicting Leonardo Da Vinci in his workshop and include a patron character that presented Leonardo with a problem to solve. The Westhampton Beach School District congratulates team members Ava Carvis, Ava Combuechen, Morgan DeVerna, Hailey Groth, Rhylee Kirchner, Emma O’Came and Tessa Mongelluzzo. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=82182 Fri, 05 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT false82182 In order to account for unused emergency closing days in the 2018/19 school calendar, school will be closed on Friday, May 24 and Tuesday, May 28, 2019. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=82148 Thu, 04 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT false82148 For his unwavering patriotism and dedication to the goals of the VFW, Westhampton Beach High School social studies teacher Korey Williams has been named the VFW New York State Teacher of the Year. Williams earned the honor after receiving a nomination from local VFW Post 5350. He is known for supporting the post’s annual Patriot’s Pen and Voice of Democracy student essay contests and inviting post members to tell their stories to students every November. Williams, who has been teaching in the Westhampton Beach School District for the past 24 years, said he is extremely honored by the recognition. “He is well-deserving of this designation,” said high school Principal Dr. Christopher Herr. In addition to teaching, Williams coaches the Westhampton Beach Middle School football team and the junior varsity boys tennis team. He is also a Navy veteran, a 20-year member of VFW Post 5350, a 24-year member of the Westhampton Beach Fire Department, and sits as president of the trustees at the Westhampton Beach Presbyterian Church. With the state recognition, Williams is now in the running to become the national VFW Teacher of the Year. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=80371 Mon, 01 Apr 2019 04:00:00 GMT false80371 Westhampton Beach High School junior Emily Arpino has received a Prudential Spirit of Community Award for recently spearheading a very successful breast cancer awareness and fundraising project. A member of her school’s varsity cheerleading team, Arpino earned the recognition for making pink cheerleading bows, which she adorned with breast cancer ribbon decals and rhinestones, and selling them to cheer teams across Long Island. Her project raised $4,280 for the LI2Day Walk, which will take place on June 8. The Westhampton Beach junior said she came up with the idea after searching for pink cheer bows for her team to wear during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, last October. Unable to find any, she opted to make and sell her own and donate all the proceeds. This is not the first community service project Arpino has been involved in. Through the student travel program Rustic Pathways, she has ventured to Costa Rica to assist with a sea turtle project and will be heading to Peru to work on a water restoration project in the Sacred Valley. Along with cheering, Arpino is a baton twirler and participates in her school’s music program. The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program recognizes middle and high school students for outstanding service to others at the local, state and national level. More than 125,000 students have been honored since 1995. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=80370 Fri, 29 Mar 2019 04:00:00 GMT false80370 Students at Westhampton Beach Elementary School displayed their knowledge of science at the school’s 21st annual math, science and technology Fair on March 21. The event showcased a variety of science projects by students in grades 1-5, with topics ranging from germ-free hands and yeast activation to sound blockers and ripening bananas. This year’s fair winners were Luke Atkinson, kindergarten; Evan Pereya, first grade; Mary Rose Atkinson, second grade; Jack Ribbons, third grade; Gabriel Monserrate, fourth grade; and Rhylee Kirchner, fifth grade. The winning students are now eligible to compete in Brookhaven National Laboratory’s annual Elementary Science Fair Competition on May 4. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=80369 Thu, 28 Mar 2019 04:00:00 GMT false80369 Westhampton Beach High School’s Virtual Enterprise team, Fresh Focus, has landed a spot in the final round of the 2019 VE Social Venture Challenge. They are set to compete on April 17 in New York City for a chance to win $10,000 to start a real business. As part of the contest, the students were required to create a business concept that has a social or environmental impact, submit an application and business proposal, and produce a one-minute pitch video. They were one of three teams to advance to the finals. For their business project, team members Joe Commisso, Elena DeVita, Frank Lapinski and Jack Meigel created a virtual business that sells stylish, reusable lunch bags made from recycled cork. The hot/cold bags are not only voguish, but also meet TSA requirements and can easily fit under an airplane seat. The students brainstormed the idea after noticing that there were little to no fashionable options for lunch bags. They plan to market their product to female millennials. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=79126 Mon, 25 Mar 2019 04:00:00 GMT false79126 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students stood in the school’s greenhouse on a sunny afternoon in March, astounded by the bounty of greens they had been growing since January. It was harvesting day. The students had the opportunity to taste the winter microgreens they had grown, which included arugula, broccoli rabe, spinach and lettuce, and took turns harvesting the garden beds. Their crops, which grew without added heat, yielded enough to allow the school’s head chef to create a generous salad that all students enjoyed on March 18. The PTA-sponsored garden project officially kicked off this school year with the goal of teaching students about growing seasons and the art of gardening. Farm educator Renato Stafford led the project. With the winter greens harvested, the students will work on another round of planting. They will be growing potatoes, snap peas, tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers, and as the weather grows warmer, they will start tending outdoor beds behind the greenhouse. They will also be learning about the composting process. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=79125 Thu, 21 Mar 2019 04:00:00 GMT false79125 As part of a life skills project, Westhampton Beach Middle School students learned how to stamp tote bags for local business, Justin’s Chop Shop. Teacher Alison Hansson said the project gave students an opportunity to learn about a local business through a hands-on activity. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=78777 Thu, 14 Mar 2019 04:00:00 GMT false78777 Westhampton Beach Middle School eighth-graders Reilly Mahon, Anthony Agudelo and Lauren Goss were honored by the New York Islanders for teaming up to raise money for East End Disability Associates through a polar bear plunge that they organized in January. The students were invited to attend the Islanders’ March 1 game, where they were recognized with the Ladd’s Leaders award after being nominated through the Team Up 4 Community organization. The students are pictured with Islanders player Andrew Ladd. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=78776 Wed, 13 Mar 2019 04:00:00 GMT false78776 Westhampton Beach Middle School brought the book “The Finest Hours,” by Michael Tougias and Casey Sherman, to life during a community read event on Feb. 28. Held at the school, the event capped off a monthlong community read of the nonfiction work and featured guests who discussed the story and how it relates to them. One of the speakers was Richard Ryder of the Orleans Historical Society in Massachusetts, who described his historical ties to the book. “The Finest Hours” tells the true story of one of the U.S. Coast Guard’s most daring rescues in the winter of 1952. When Ryder was 12, his father, a USCG member, received a call over his radio that the SS Pendleton, a tanker, had split in half and the men aboard were in peril. Ryder recalled the experience at the time and the conversations he later had with the crew of the CG36500, who rescued the sailors in danger. He also discussed the restoration process of the CG36500, with which he currently tours. Also speaking at the event were local Coast Guard members James Potts and Wes Casey, who discussed their own experiences in the Coast Guard and the extreme circumstances the crew of the CG36500 must have endured at the time of the 1952 rescue. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=77588 Fri, 08 Mar 2019 05:00:00 GMT false77588 To register, parents or guardians must bring a photo ID, child’s proof of birth (e.g., original birth certificate, passport or baptismal certificate), immunization record, a copy of a current physical examination, and custody and/or guardianship documents. Additionally, proof of residency is required. Residency proof includes one of the following: a deed; mortgage statement; current tax bill; current utility bill; notarized original lease or, if sharing a residence, notarized registration affidavit (form provided by the school district); or a copy of the homeowner’s deed or tax bill. Registration packets will be available starting March 6 at Westhampton Beach Elementary School, 397 Mill Road in Westhampton Beach, or online at http://www.westhamptonbeach.k12.ny.us/parents_students/student_registration. Registration dates are as follows: Wednesday, March 27, from 9-11 a.m., 1:30-2:30 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m.; and Thursday, March 28, from 9-11 a.m. and 1:30-2:30 p.m. For questions, please contact 631-288-3800, ext. 231. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=77587 Thu, 07 Mar 2019 05:00:00 GMT false77587 Westhampton Beach High School math teacher Nick Kochis is one of 23 Long Island educators to be recognized this year with a Suffolk ASSET Bright Lights Award for integrating technology into the classroom. Kochis, who has been teaching in the Westhampton Beach School District since 2009, earned the recognition for engaging his students through innovative learning platforms. He has used Google Classroom to pair his students with those in other states to collaboratively solve math problems. He also uses the math website GeoGebra to bring visual understanding to a variety of concepts, and this year introduced an augmented reality app to engage them even further. “I am very thankful for the district’s technology initiative and how it allows me to use technology in so many ways in my classroom,” said Kochis. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=77536 Wed, 06 Mar 2019 05:00:00 GMT false77536 Westhampton Beach Middle School’s paleontology program was recently featured on the Spotlight on Long Island Schools radio program on LI News Radio, 103.9 FM. To listen to the segment, visit: •https://soundcloud.com/jvcbroadcasting/spotlight-2-23-whbeach-paleo-1 • https://soundcloud.com/jvcbroadcasting/spotlight-2-23-whbeach-paleo-2 https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=77485 Tue, 05 Mar 2019 05:00:00 GMT false77485 Westhampton Beach High School has announced Chris Bender and Frank Lapinski as its Class of 2019 valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively. The two seniors earned the top spots in their class through their outstanding commitment to academics. Valedictorian Bender has achieved a number of academic accomplishments during his tenure at Westhampton Beach High School. He is a National AP Scholar, a National Merit Commended Scholar and the soon-to-be recipient of an AP Capstone diploma. He is also a member of the National, Math, Science and Foreign Language honor societies, serves as co-president of the Interact Club, and is a two-sport athlete on the varsity football and lacrosse teams. Bender plans to attend Williams College in the fall. He has not yet declared a major. Salutatorian Lapinski has an equally impressive academic track record. He is an AP Scholar, a member of the National, Math, Science and Foreign Language honor societies, president of his school’s mock trial team, co-president of the Interact Club, co-captain of the varsity quiz bowl team and chief financial officer of the school’s Virtual Enterprise team. In addition, he plays the saxophone and performs with his school’s jazz ensemble and pep and pit bands. Outside of school, he participates in the Riverhead Youth Court. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=77300 Mon, 04 Mar 2019 05:00:00 GMT false77300 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students helped illustrator Jeff Mack draw an original character during a school assembly on Feb. 14. As part of the high-energy event, students listed physical traits that the new character should have as Mack drew them on an easel. They also learned about Mack’s career and how he become an illustrator and author. The event was sponsored by the Westhampton Free Library. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=77299 Fri, 01 Mar 2019 05:00:00 GMT false77299 As part of the Westhampton Beach Middle School’s physical education curriculum, sixth-graders recently strapped on skates and took to the ice at the Buckskill Winter Club in East Hampton. Many of the students were thrilled with the opportunity to try something new, while more experienced skaters helped their peers gain their balance and confidence on the ice. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=77298 Thu, 28 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT false77298 The first-graders in AnnMarie Steiner’s class at Westhampton Beach Elementary School put their creativity and writing skills into practice on Feb. 14 by crafting Valentine’s Day cards for friends and family. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=77296 Wed, 27 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT false77296 Five Westhampton Beach seniors penned their names to national letters of intent during a recent signing ceremony. Pictured, from left, McKinley Skala, Geneseo University, soccer; Jon Mendoza, Yale University, football; Maeve Murphy, Boston University, track; Liam McIntyre, Brown University, football; and Brooke Walker, New York Institue of Technology, softball. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=77139 Tue, 26 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT false77139 Westhampton Beach Elementary School marked the 100th day of school on Feb. 14 with a number of hundred-themed activities. For Meaghan Moran’s first-grade class, those included counting 100 drops of water, writing 100 words, stacking 100 cups and measuring 100 centimeters. Pictured, from left, are students Mila Nathan, Claire Robesch and Gabriella Yervasi with their measuring ribbon. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=77138 Mon, 25 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT false77138 As part of a community service leadership project, second-graders at Westhampton Beach Elementary School are returning water bottles that they collected at home and in school. The students plan to donate the nickels earned from the returns to the community at the end of the school year. Their project was inspired by the school’s new character education program, the Leader in Me, which aims to build leadership qualities and promote success within and beyond the classroom. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=75996 Fri, 15 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT false75996 Westhampton Beach High School’s guidance office celebrated National School Counseling Week during the week of Feb. 4. As part of the observance, students shared the impact that counselors have had on their lives. Students commented that counselors have taught them a number of skills that focus not only on the college and career process, but also on emotional learning, how to deal with crisis situations and general well-being. They said they also learned time management skills and how to set and achieve goals. “A creative and collaborate environment that truly benefits the students, faculty, administration, parents and community is another way that school counselors contribute on a daily basis,” said school counselor Veronica Stelzer. “National School Counseling Week is a great time to highlight school counselors as playing an integral role in making the school environment a positive place.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=75995 Thu, 14 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT false75995 Westhampton Beach High School’s Virtual Enterprise team, Team Sway, has advanced to the final round of the Virtual Enterprises International Long Island Business Plan Competition. The virtual firm became semifinalists after competing against 96 teams from across Long Island at VEI’s 2019 Long Island Regional Conference and Exhibition, held Jan. 9 at LIU Post. They were one of 11 teams to advance. Team Sway’s winning virtual business plan focuses on the development and promotion of hammocks made from recycled fibers. Their plan includes donating a portion of their profits to combating suicide and depression in teens. The Westhampton Beach team will next compete on Feb. 26 at American Portfolios in Holbrook in the final round of the Virtual Enterprises International Long Island Business Plan Competition. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=75742 Fri, 08 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT false75742 Westhampton Beach Elementary School fourth-graders learned more about the life and history of Native Americans during a Journeys into American Indian Territory program on Jan. 23. During the PTA-sponsored learning opportunity, students explored Native American artifacts in a museum set up in the school’s gymnasium. The museum included items such as Native American clothing, dolls, pottery and a replica of a longhouse. Pictured are students playing Native American games that they learned about during the session. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=74015 Tue, 05 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT false74015 Four Westhampton Beach Elementary School fifth-graders learned about the art of journalism by penning an article as part of Newsday’s Kidsday section. For their article, the students Jasmine Taylor, Jessilynn Trinh, Katherine Ralph and Hailey Groth interviewed Nickelodeon star Jace Norman, who stars in the show “Henry Danger.” Their work appeared in the Jan. 18 issue of Kidsday. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=74014 Mon, 04 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT false74014 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students are learning to play the ukulele as part of a new music unit. This school year, music teacher Ali Gogas introduced the students to the small four-stringed instrument, starting with how to strum. By the end of the school year, students will be able to play while singing a short song. “In third grade, students learn to play the recorder,” said Gogas. “I thought adding a string instrument would be a great opportunity for them. It’s a fun and different experience and requires a higher level of skill.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=74013 Fri, 01 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT false74013 As part of a PTA-sponsored project, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students are growing and tasting winter greens that they planted in the school’s greenhouse. For the project, students have been working with farm educator Renato Stafford, owner of Homegrown, to plant and grow winter microgreens, including arugula, broccoli rabe and spinach. The outdoor classroom has provided students with the opportunity to taste what they have grown and learn about the different growing seasons. In the spring, they will plant tomatoes and other vegetables. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=74012 Thu, 31 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT false74012 Members of the Westhampton Beach Middle School Lego Robotics Club competed in the FIRST Lego League competition at Mineola High School on Jan. 26. The team worked hard throughout the season to develop and program a robot that would complete various challenges. They also successfully identified and developed a unique solution to a problem astronauts face during prolonged space travel. “They worked as a team and saw firsthand how hard work and determination can pay off with success,” said coach Richard Michta. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=73984 Wed, 30 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT false73984 Westhampton Beach Elementary School students now have new, larger-than-life games to play when Mother Nature decides to send snow or rain and indoor recess must be held. The large-scale games include Jenga and chess, along with other popular board games. Students can access the new items in the school’s small gym during indoor recess. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=73841 Tue, 29 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT false73841 Westhampton Beach Middle School students in Jennifer Hinrichs’ pre-algebra class recently created to-scale items as part of a lesson on scale measurements. They used various materials to make larger-than-life colored pencil boxes, iPhones, artificial sweetener packets and MacBooks. Pictured with Hinrichs is seventh-grader Angel Canales Andrade and his to-scale replica. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=73840 Mon, 28 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT false73840 Several Westhampton Beach High School students participated in the filming of a public service announcement series sponsored by the Southampton Town Opioid Addiction and Recovery Committee. The announcements, which feature all five East End town police chiefs, warn about the lethal dangers of fentanyl. They will air on local government channels and will be provided to schools and other community groups. Student participants included Maddie Donahue, Valerie Fink, Natalie Gosnell, Mackenzie Jenkins and Alex Slover. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=73839 Fri, 25 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT false73839 Westhampton Beach Middle School students recently used their interior design skills to fabricate a dream bedroom inside a shoebox. The students in Katie Rafferty’s family and consumer sciences class used a variety of materials to design rooms that included small-scale beds, shelving, rugs and wall decor. The project not only focused on design concepts, including the use of warm and cool colors, but also creativity, brainstorming and problem-solving. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=73607 Fri, 18 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT false73607 The rhyme “no more pencils, no more books” is ringing true in Asa Grunenwald’s seventh-grade math class at Westhampton Beach Middle School this year as he pilots a paperless classroom initiative. Still in the development stage, Grunenwald has made strides to go paperless by taking full advantage of his classroom’s set of iPads. Although written homework is still issued, nearly all classwork is completed on the iPads. Not only does going paperless reduce his class’ carbon footprint, Grunenwald says, but it also has a multitude of added benefits. For one, students are less likely to lose a digital copy of their notes as compared to paper. They are also learning digital organization techniques and have neater work thanks to no more messy eraser marks. In addition, the iPads provide access to online educational resources that supplement the lesson at hand. “We are still a hybrid classroom,” said Grunenwald of the transition from paper, “but we are working every day toward expanding this pilot.” https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=73500 Tue, 15 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT false73500 Westhampton Beach Middle School students studying American history put their knowledge and research of the Boston Tea Party to use on Jan. 10 by debating about the historical event. With gavel in hand, teacher Joshua Tuttle presided over the argument as the students contended whether the Boston Tea Party was justified or not. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=73418 Fri, 11 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT false73418 After discovering a special connection with each other, three Westhampton Beach Middle School eighth-graders teamed up to initiate a polar plunge to benefit East End Disability Associates. The fundraising event will take place on Saturday, Jan. 19, at 1 p.m., at Rogers Beach in Westhampton Beach. The commonality among the trio of Anthony Agudelo, Lauren Goss and Reilly Mahon is that each of them has a loved one with a disability. Agudelo and Goss each have a family member with autism, and Mahon’s father lost his right arm in a work accident. “We thought we could help others with disabilities by doing a fundraiser,” said Agudelo. The students discovered their common link while sharing personal stories after a full-day, in-school HerStory writers’ workshop held in September. As part of the workshop, students were inspired to use the power of their personal stories to make a difference in the world around them. According to their Critical Literacy teacher, Kelly Russell, the three eighth-graders took it upon themselves to create the polar plunge action project. They reached out to East End Disability, obtained permits to use the beach, acquired a coffee and hot chocolate donation from the Hampton Coffee Company, and have been working to advertise their event. “I am so impressed with these students,” said Russell. “They have worked hard doing all of this in their free time.” The students say they hope to raise as much as they can for the nonprofit organization. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online at https://www.eed-a.org/polar-plunge.html. Donations are also welcome. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=73359 Wed, 09 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT false73359 Westhampton Beach Middle School students recently constructed wooden cars as part of a technology unit of study on pneumatic dragsters. As part of the project, the students in Richard Michta’s class worked for several weeks to design, build and refine cars that would go as fast as possible. They employed their mechanical drawing skills to create a multi-view design plan, as well as their fine motor skills build their dragsters using various tools and machines. The final step was optimizing their creations through different testing processes. “The students learned that when they take their time and use precise construction, they can develop a successful dragster,” said Michta. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=73188 Fri, 04 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT false73188 To overcome adversity, one needs resilience and courage — that was one of the inspirational messages that motivational speaker Rohan Murphy delivered to Westhampton Beach Middle School students during an assembly on Jan. 3. The students listened in rapt attention as Murphy, an East Islip native, told them about overcoming many challenges throughout his life as a double-leg amputee, and how he worked to perfect his wrestling skills and go on to play for Penn State. He urged the students to take on challenges and never give up. “No excuses,” he said. “Anything is possible.” Following the assembly, Murphy met with students in small-group settings, where the students were encouraged to ask questions. He also stopped in to several lunch periods and took selfies with the students. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=73189 Fri, 04 Jan 2019 05:00:00 GMT false73189 Westhampton Beach High School seniors Liam McIntyre and Tori Cummings were honored by the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance on Nov. 28 as winners of the Suffolk Zone Student Leadership Award. The pair were selected based on their excellence in physical education, leadership ability and service to the community. The proud Hurricanes are pictured with district Athletic Director Kathy Masterson. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=72748 Fri, 14 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT false72748 Five Westhampton Beach High School students are using Brookhaven National Laboratory technology to conduct research projects through the lab’s Student Partnerships for Advanced Research and Knowledge program. As part of the program, the students – Matthew Daleo, Danielle Freda, Cole Hempel, Cambell Kast and Evan Lockwood – are taught to use the lab’s NSLS-2 Beamline and Infrared Spectroscopy technology for their research. The NSLS-2 is one of only nine such beamlines in the world and is able to detect elemental composition and 3D structure of macromolecules. During the week of Dec. 3, the students and their teacher, Dianna Gobler, received four hours of training in the NSLS-2 and learned from BNL beamline scientists how to drive the SRX Beamline to detect background interference and analyze data. Once fully trained, the students will be able to run samples for their research in the spring. For their research, Freda and Kast will explore microplastic accumulation in sediments and shellfish; Daleo and Lockwood will analyze the elemental composition of paleontological samples they collected during their middle school PALEOS trip with middle school science teacher Rob Coleman in summer 2017; and Hempel will examine drinking water for the presence of microplastics. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=72628 Tue, 11 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT false72628 To mark Computer Science Education Week, Westhampton Beach Elementary School students spent an hour learning code on Dec. 3 through activities provided by Code.org. Known as the Hour of Code, the experience gives students an opportunity to explore coding as the basis for a possible career in computer science. It also allows them to hone their problem-solving skills. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=72626 Tue, 11 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT false72626 Five Westhampton Beach seniors penned their names to national letters of intent during a recent signing ceremony. Pictured, from left, are Lindsay Rongo, Stony Brook University, lacrosse; Tyler Nolan, Jacksonville University, lacrosse; Kerry Dillon, Iona College, lacrosse; Juan Lasso, Columbia University, track; and Hollie Schleicher, Boston College, lacrosse. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=72627 Tue, 11 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT false72627 As part of the Westhampton Beach Elementary School’s visiting artist program, fourth- and fifth-graders are designing and painting a second school mural with the assistance of local artist and Quogue Wildlife educator Tony Valderrama. The new, four-part mural features the seasons as represented by Westhampton Beach, local wildlife, vegetation and crops. Similar to the school’s first mural, it incorporates components of the school’s new character education program, Leader in Me. The Leader in Me initiative aims to teach students to be proactive; begin with the end in mind; put first things first; think win-win; seek first to understand, then be understood; synergize; and sharpen the saw. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=72535 Mon, 10 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT false72535 Cheers could be heard across the field at Westhampton Beach Elementary School as third-graders participated in the school’s inaugural Great Pumpkin Parachute Plunge on the sunny afternoon of Nov. 1. Leading up to the event, STEM lab teacher Amy Nelson challenged students to construct a 3D pumpkin out of paper and attach it to a parachute that they would design and build. The goal was to create the contraption that would have the slowest rate of descent when dropped from the school’s roof. The project tied into the students’ science lesson on gravity and air resistance. Working in groups, the students constructed their projects using a variety of materials, including yarn, tin foil and paper. The winning team, made up of Michael Casciole, Jacob Martin and Emely Ortiz, fashioned their parachute out of two large pieces of paper taped together and affixed to their pumpkin with string. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=71907 Mon, 19 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT false71907 Westhampton Beach Elementary School third-graders enjoyed an educational trip to Brookhaven National Laboratory on Oct. 31. During their visit, they took part in a variety of hands-on scientific activities led by BNL representatives. They were also challenged to find solutions to engineering problems and learned how to create simple circuits. Pictured from left are students Noah Murphy and Jude Dawson. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=71909 Mon, 19 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT false71909 Westhampton Beach Middle School seventh-grader Conner Poch was given the special privilege of directing a lesson and addressing his younger peers as part of a study skills class on Oct. 10. While the class, taught by librarian Yvonne Perez, is geared to help sixth-graders hone their study skills, it also gives seventh-graders a chance to strengthen their public speaking abilities. Every quarter, Perez invites a seventh-grader to present an aspect of the curriculum to the class. As this quarter’s presenter, Poch worked with Perez to develop a lesson plan and activities that coincided with the topic at hand – in this case, memorization. Expressing poise and confidence, Poch stood before the class and reviewed the learning tools of categorization and visualization. He then directed the sixth-graders to engage in Google Classroom activities that reinforced the lesson. Poch said he was thrilled for the opportunity and would look forward to teaching a class again. Outside of school, he is a member of the Westhampton Beach Junior Fire Department and plans to join his school’s volleyball and tennis teams. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=71916 Mon, 19 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT false71916 Westhampton Beach High School students participated in several Red Ribbon Week activities, organized by the school’s Youth to Youth Club, during the week of Oct. 29. All activities were based on the themes of saying no to drugs, making positive choices and team building. Youth to Youth members shared awareness messages with their peers, held theme days, designed posters, created a haunted hallway and decorated trees outside the school with red ribbons. In addition, all students signed a banner pledging to stay drug- and alcohol-free. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=71910 Mon, 19 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT false71910 Hurricane pride was abundant as the Westhampton Beach School District celebrated homecoming during the week of Oct. 15. The spirit week festivities included thematic days leading up to the annual parade on Oct. 19, where the freshman, sophomore, junior and senior classes marched down Main Street to display their city-themed floats. The Friday celebration continued as the Westhampton Beach Hurricanes took to the field for a night game against Miller Place High School. The crowd, dressed in green and white, cheered as the home team claimed a shutout victory with a final score of 41-0. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=71914 Mon, 19 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT false71914 About a year ago, Westhampton Beach High School junior Jocelyn McNamara was on the hunt for something extra to do in her spare time when a family friend introduced her to Brazilian jiujitsu. She immediately fell in love with it, and on Nov. 3, she shared that love by coordinating a self-defense class for her peers. “I have gained so much confidence and competence in defending myself,” said McNamara, “and I really wanted to find a way to share that with my friends in school.” To bring her idea to fruition, McNamara gained approval from school officials and enlisted Greg Melita, owner of Hamptons Jiu Jitsu, to teach a free, three-hour self-defense class at her school. The class saw a good turnout, with 22 juniors and seniors learning how to escape wrist grabs, headlocks, chokes, grabs from behind and pins against the wall. It was such a success that McNamara hopes to organize a second session. “It was a lot of fun,” said McNamara, who said she always leaves her jiujitsu class with a smile. “As soon as I started taking classes, I knew I had found my fit.” Aside from building her skills in jiujitsu, McNamara runs track and belongs to her school’s chamber choir. She is also an All-State singer. https://www.whbschools.org/News/Story.aspx?id=71906 Mon, 19 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT false71906