Where
education
always
shines!
THE LIONS’ PRIDE
of
WEST ISLIP SCHOOLS
www.wi.k12.ny.us
Official publication of the West Islip School District
FALL FUN AT
PAUL J. BELLEW
WEST ISLIP STUDENTS
GIVE BACK
In connection with a study on
human rights, Mr. DeMaio’s 5th
grade class at Bayview Elementary
School brought back a tradition of
the past, “Trick or Treating for
UNICEF”. Instead of requesting
candy, students carried their
orange UNICEF boxes to collect
change to help children in
countries who cannot enjoy the
bare necessities of life. Kudos to
Mr. DeMaio’s class!
In July, twelve West Islip students
and two teachers traveled to
Antigua, Guatemala to volunteer
with a Minnesota based nonprofit
organization called Common Hope.
Students worked on various
projects, including building a tworoom home for a family and
participating in cultural exchange
opportunities. The group visited
schools and led craft projects,
baking classes and cheerleading and
football clinics. This experience
was rewarding and life changing for
all.
The West Islip Breast Cancer Coalition
presented a program named "Pink Flags
of October," where hundreds of flags
were displayed on the front lawn of
Good Samaritan Hospital to commemorate October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. On September 28, 2014
West Islip High School’s Vocal Motion
performed at the WIBCC’s Pink Flag
Ceremony. The group of talented juniors and seniors captivated the emotional
audience with an uplifting performance
of the song “The Power of One”.
VETERANS DAY
CELEBRATION AT BAYVIEW
Students and staff at Bayview Elementary School welcomed local veterans on
November 10, 2014 as part of their Veterans Day Celebration. The festivities
began by a grand welcoming of the veterans by the entire building, followed by
the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of “God Bless America”. Principal
John Mullins was presented with a flag from the West Islip American Legion.
The morning proceeded with the veterans visiting all grade levels, answering
questions about their experiences in the military and teaching the proper flag
etiquette. In preparation for the celebration, displays were set up throughout
the building including a “Wall of Heroes”, a photo display of family members
of Bayview who served in the military. Thank you letters were read by the
students and presented to our guests. Students also donated their snack money
to the Wounded Warrior Project, demonstrating their understanding of the
importance of “giving back.” In addition, Bayview families brought in artifacts
that were displayed in a “Museum” to further educate the students about the
importance of Veterans Day. It was day filled with gratitude and many moving
experiences, felt not only by the students and staff, but also by their honored
guests.
Bayview’s Wall of Heroes, Museum,
Principal John Mullins {pictured
second from left} after receiving a
flag from members of the
West Islip American Legion
December 2014
Creativity, imagination and team work were the ingredients needed for this
annual P.J. Bellew Halloween tradition. A special thank you to all the families
who participated in this fun-filled activity and to the Bellew staff who organized
this charity event. The pumpkin project was supported by the Character
Education Committee and the October character education trait of Goal
Setting. Students set many goals during the month including spending time
with family and helping others in the community. Without a doubt, this project
reached those goals! Pumpkins were displayed the week of Halloween and
students were invited to donate a handful of change to their favorite
pumpkin. The money collected was given to local families in need this holiday
season. Mrs. Pratt, P.J. Bellew Principal, shared that over $600 was collected and
a great time was had by all!
Students and staff at Manetuck
Elementary School are participating in
The Path to “PAW”-fect Character!
program which provides and instills a
schoolwide environment of respect,
responsibility and compassion through
heightened awareness of how
individual actions, thoughts and
behavior affect not only oneself, but
others. A character trait is designated
each month and assigned a color. On
kick-off day each month, students are
encouraged to wear a colored shirt
that represents their awareness of the
character trait. Students are involved
in lessons and class discussions;
assemblies supplement the classroom
activities. A Character Education Award
is presented to one student in each
class that best exemplifies that
month’s character trait. Recipients of
the Character Education Award will have
their names displayed on the “The Path
to PAW-fect Character” in the main
hallway.
THE PATH TO PAW-FECT
CHARACTER @ MANETUCK
Mural painted by second grade teacher, Mrs. LaPrarie
RESPECT
RESPONSIBILITY
COMPASSION
TRUSTWORTHINESS
STUDENT RELEASE INFORMATION
Under Title 45, US Code, Part 99, The Right of Parents and Students, parents who
do not desire release of student information to the public must make that
specific request in writing. Mail your request to Mrs. Bernadette Burns,
Superintendent of Schools, 100 Sherman Avenue, West Islip, NY 11795.
Without such notification, West Islip Public Schools will release and/or publish
in the district newsletters, newspapers, other publications and the website,
information relating to student achievements, programs, athletics, music and art
events, etc.
PARENTS FOR MEGAN’S LAW
In order to provide parents/guardians with information concerning convicted
sex offenders who are living or working in the district, our school district is
benefiting from a no-cost sex offender email alert notification program. Parents
for Megan’s Law will email registered residents informing them of any new sex
offender’s presence and directing them to its website where one can access a full
copy of the notification. You can register at www.parentsformeganslaw.org.
WHOM DO I CALL WITH A QUESTION OR SUGGESTION?
The West Islip School District’s communication protocols help to promote
direct, open and respectful interactions so that the problems and concerns can
be worked out quickly and efficiently. The communication protocol starts with
the staff member closest to the situation, as that person will usually have the
most information. At times, additional personnel are required to resolve
specific situations. Visit the district website at www.wi.k12.ny.us for a listing of
appropriate communication channels for a variety of topics.
Photographs throughout this publication courtesy of
Joanne LaDuca, Webmaster, David Kaufman and the Photography Club, and Ed Bell.
WEST ISLIP SCHOOL DISTRICT
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 2014-2015
WI
Board of Education
2014 - 2015
Information on meeting dates,
committee members and
minutes of Board of Education
meetings may be found at
www.wi.k12.ny.us
Front (l to r): Annmarie LaRosa, Steve Gellar, Scott Brady
Back (l to r): Michael Zotto, Kevin O’Connor, Ronald Maginniss and Robert Ulrich
MISSION STATEMENT
The West Islip Community is committed to excellence in education through
the establishment of an academic, vocational and social environment in which
all children can learn and succeed. Our students will be provided the opportunity to develop their self-esteem and a respect for others while acquiring the
knowledge, skills and attitudes to become responsible citizens in a rapidly
changing world. Our goal is to have students think in global terms and
develop cultural sensitivity and an international orientation. We seek to instill in
our students the ability to share their commonalities, celebrate their differences, and appreciate that learning is a lifelong process.
GOVERNANCE
OBJECTIVES:
 Establish a cycle for the regular review of all district policies
 Review Sections 1000, 2000, and 3000 of the Board of Education Policy
Handbook, ensuring that related regulations are included and timely
COMMUNITY
A Word from the Superintendent of Schools
BERNADETTE M. BURNS
Dear Parents & Community Members:
Lately, we have been spreading the word that West Islip has 2020 vision. But
what does that mean?
A vision defines the optimal desired future of what we want to achieve over
time. To our school community, the vision is our inspiration as to what West
Islip is focused on achieving in five, ten, or more years. West Islip has 2020
vision, a clear vision, that each child leaves our school system with the skills to
successfully pursue his/her dream in the 21st century world.
New York State has completed the fourth year of a twelve year phase-in of
higher standards, which culminates in the requirement that the Class of 2022
pass, with proficiency, Common Core Regents Exams, and exit high school
college- and career-ready. To this end, our school community has made great
strides in the past few months. We are ready, willing and able to continue with
the momentum and excitement that has been generated, and we believe that
the 2014-2015 school year is poised to be one of great achievements for our
students and academic growth for our District.
West Islip has 2020 vision. It is apparent that our community wants nothing less
than safe schools and rigorous academic opportunities and extracurricular
programs for its children. Such abundant community support is one of the
things that makes this district a special place to teach and learn.
It is an honor and pleasure to serve the students and community of the West
Islip School District. I thank you all for your continued support and for your
commitment to the children that we serve.
Sincerely,
OBJECTIVES:
 Establish guidelines to ensure effective communication among stakeholders, including educators, parents and students, to provide ongoing
feedback about student progress toward college and career readiness
 By June 2015, conduct at least two (2) parent academies to foster parent
and community involvement in the West Islip Public Schools
Bernadette M. Burns
Superintendent of Schools
PARENTS ADVANCING
WEST ISLIP STUDENTS
CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION
OBJECTIVES:
 Increase student achievement on state standardized tests by meeting the
SED's Annual Measurable Objectives in English Language Arts and
Mathematics for each cohort
 Increase the number of students who achieve a Regents Diploma with
Advanced Designation by 3% as compared to the 2013-2014 school year
 Disaggregate student data on a monthly basis and utilize results to discuss
student achievement
 Provide professional development to staff with a focus on improving
student achievement
Thanks to funding by PAWS {Parents Advancing West Islip Students}, the
following donations were accepted and approved by the Board of Education.




FACILITIES
OBJECTIVES:
 Investigate and develop a cost analysis for options to replace and/or
extend the useable life of school building roofs, doors, and windows, and
support the emerging technologies
 Develop a long-range facility infrastructure plan that supports the
emerging instructional, security and safety-related technologies


Supporting materials for elementary guided reading libraries
Utility amplification system in the West Islip High School Performing
Arts Center
Expression Tool Kit used in the instruction and practice of organizing and
expanding oral and written language
VuPoint Solutions Magic Wand Portable Scanner with auto-feed docks
allowing teachers to have immediate access to printed materials from a
variety of sources projected onto classroom SMART Board
Wi-Fi enabled iPad 2 devices enabling reading students to be provided
with an article at their individual reading level
Smart Music subscriptions which is an interactive music program
TECHNOLOGY
OBJECTIVES:
 Improve the effectiveness and efficiency of achieving all other district
goals by updating the district’s technology plan
 Increase opportunities for implementing innovative educational technology
resources for instructional, operational, and administrative use
Mark your calendar for the PAWS Annual
Gala to be held on Friday, March 13, 2015.
Additional information on PAWS can be
found at www.wi.k12.ny.us
IT’S 2014. DO YOU KNOW WHERE YOUR TAX MONEY IS GOING?
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE GEA…
The Gap Elimination Adjustment (GEA) was introduced in 2009-2010 when New York State had a $10 billion budget deficit. Since that time, the
state legislature has redirected dollars typically targeted to school aid to close the state deficit, shifting its school aid obligation to the local
taxpayers. Additionally, New York State has attempted to accomplish major educational reform during the difficult economic conditions for our
schools.
The GEA has cost West Islip taxpayers over $15.6 million in the last four years, money that may have been used to save program and reduce
taxes. In the 2013-2014 school year alone, West Islip schools lost $3.2 million to the GEA, or about $694 per student. In addition, the GEA cost
taxpayers approximately $327 on the tax levy. Long Island enrolls nearly 17% of the state’s students, but receives just 12% of school aid. Yet, 18% of
the statewide GEA reduction is absorbed by Long Island school districts.
On October 20, 2014 Governor Cuomo declared: “We have our fiscal house in order. Credit ratings for the state are up. We actually have a surplus
for state. We went from a 10 billion dollar deficit to a 4 billion dollar surplus.”
Visit the district’s website, http://www.wi.k12.ny.us/legislative.htm to find steps you can take to ensure your voice is heard. Now is the time to act!
OUTSTANDING
MUSIC ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Congratulations to the West Islip High School students who have been selected to
participate in the 2014 New York State Council of Administrators Music Education
(NYSCAME) All-County Festival. These accomplished musicians represent the finest
students throughout Suffolk County. The performance was held at Half Hollow Hills
East High School in November 2014.
Pictured congratulating the students are Mr. William Willis, Orchestra Director; Mr. Eric
Albinder, Director of Art & Music Education; Ms. Nicole Morace, Chorus Director; and
Mr. James Krais, Band Director.
Musicians include (bottom row): Alexander Moy, Orchestra; Tristan Cadiz, Orchestra;
Christina Shaw, Mixed Chorus; Gregory Florio, Mixed Chorus; Edward Matin,
Orchestra; Samuel Hudson, Band; Ryan Small, Band, Hannah Kim, Band and Robert
Esposito, Symphony Orchestra
(top row): Sheila Flahery, Women’s Choir; Alexandra Brewer, Mixed Chorus; Alyssa
Frazier, Women’s Choir; Samantha McEvoy, Women’s Chorus; Sean Gordon, Mixed
Chorus; Kevin Riegel, Mixed Chorus; Charles Hetterich, Band; Meghan Bevan, Band;
Alexandra DelOrfano, Band; James Khoury, Band; Daniel Welborn, Band; and Eric
Troiano, Band
Congratulations to the West Islip High School students who were selected to perform in
the 2014 New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) All-State Festival.
This prestigious event is comprised of the finest musicians from the entire state of New
York. The performance will take place at the Eastman School of Music, University of
Rochester in December 2014.
Pictured congratulating the musicians on their phenomenal accomplishments are
Mr. William Willis, Orchestra Director; Mr. Eric Albinder, Director of Art & Music
Education; Ms. Nicole Morace, Chorus Director; and Mr. James Krais, Band Director.
Pictured musicians include Alexander Moy, Symphony Orchestra; Tristan Cadiz, String
Orchestra; Christina Shaw, Women's Chorus; Gregory Florio, Mixed Chorus; Edward
Matin, Symphony Orchestra; Samuel Hudson, Symphonic Band; Ryan Small, Symphonic
Band; Hannah Kim, Symphony Orchestra; and Robert Esposito, Symphony Orchestra
WEST ISLIP
HIGH
SCHOOL
MARCHING
LIONS,
KICKLINE
and
FLAG TEAM
The West Islip High School Marching Lions, Flag
Team and Kickline marched in this year’s
Columbus Day Parade in New York City. The
Marching Lions have participated in this annual
tradition for the past 30 years and continues to
place in the top five bands of the competition
each year.
Please join us at one or more of the upcoming
musical performances. Check the district website
www.wi.k12.ny.us for details.
W
As we continue our efforts to educate students regarding appropriate
behavior and the treatment of others in the context of existing and new
technologies, we ask that you assist us in this important endeavor by:
elcome to
est Islip Public Schools
Brian Taylor has joined the district as the Director of
Science and Technology and comes to us from the
Commack School District where he served as the
Administrative Dean of Students. Mr. Taylor received his
Master’s degree from Stony Brook University.
Michael Giacchetto has joined the district as the Assistant
Principal at Udall Road Middle School from the PatchogueMedford School District where he was an elementary
teacher. Mr. Giacchetto received his Master’s degree from
Dowling College.
SOCIAL
West Islip Public Schools is proud to announce two new
members to their administrative team.
Reviewing the settings on your children’s
phones and consider blocking apps not rated
as age appropriate (restrictions are generally
enabled under “settings”).
MEDIA
Checking your children’s phones for apps that
may be misused, such as Instagram, Yik Yak,
Snapchat, Kik, Whisper and Tinder, among
others.
Having regular discussions with your children
about the respectful treatment of others and
to expect respectful treatment in return.
This issue impacts our students primarily outside of school when they are in the
community. We are hopeful that by working together, we can better prepare students to
address this important matter.
WEST ISLIP SPIRIT
Homecoming
2014
The West Islip community gathered on Saturday, October 25 to join in Homecoming festivities. The day began with a parade down Higbie Lane, and included
school and community groups such as the West Islip High School Kickline, Marching Lions and Robotics, cheerleaders from the high school and middle
schools, Little Conference cheerleaders and football players, players and coaches from the West Islip Soccer Club, Board of Education members, West Islip
administrators, as well as the West Islip Fire Department and West Islip Chamber of Commerce. In addition, banners were displayed from the Freshman,
Sophomore, Junior and Senior classes. This year’s winner was the Junior Class. Pictured above is Mr. and Miss West Islip, Sarah Birkoff and Gregory Florio,
as well as runners up, Samantha McEvoy and Dylan Hornik. The national anthem was performed by Alexandra Brewer and the Varsity Cheerleaders, Kickline
and Flag Team performed at halftime. The Varsity Football team was victorious against Centereach, with a score of 35 to 0. Max McNicholas and Alex
Barbera were recognized as the 2014 Homecoming Offensive and Defensive MVPs, respectively.
Bernadette M. Burns
Superintendent of Schools
Board of Education
Steven Gellar, President
Scott Brady, Vice President
Annmarie LaRosa
Ronald Maginniss
Kevin O’Connor
Robert Ulrich
Michael Zotto
West Islip School District
Freyer Administration Building
100 Sherman Avenue
West Islip, NY 11795
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