Michael Vivano, a diligent fifth-grade student and the Student Government president at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School, has been honored with the opportunity to pen and recite a heartfelt poem for the Arbor Day celebration hosted by the Village Tree Committee of Port Jefferson.

“We are thrilled to have Michael Viviano as a part of this year’s Arbor Day celebration,” said Principal Amy Laverty. “His eloquent expression and genuine appreciation for nature undoubtedly resonated with the attendees and inspired our community to continue nurturing our environment.”

The Arbor Day celebration, a cherished event in the community’s calendar, serves as a testament to Port Jefferson’s commitment to environmental stewardship and the preservation of its natural beauty. The event was particularly special this year, with Michael Vivano’s poignant words enriching the occasion.

With a passion for both poetry and environmental conservation, Michael’s selection to represent his school and community is a testament to his leadership qualities and creative prowess. As Student Government President, Michael has demonstrated exceptional dedication to serving his peers and fostering a positive school environment.

Throughout the event, attendees also had the privilege of hearing from a lineup of esteemed speakers, including Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, New York State Assemblyman Ed Flood, Suffolk County Legislator Steve Englebright, and Port Jefferson Village Mayor Lauren Sheprow. Each speaker brought a unique perspective and shared their insights on the importance of Arbor Day and the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve the environment for future generations.

Photo 1: Edna Louise Spear Elementary School student, Michael Viviano reciting his poem during the Port Jefferson Arbor Day Celebration
Photo 2: Michael Viviano with Jessica Schmettan, Superintendent of Schools, and Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine
Photo 3: Michael Viviano with Port Jefferson Village Trustee Bob Juliano
Photo 4: Michael Viviano with Suffolk County Legislator Steve Englebright
Photo 5: Michael Viviano with New York State Assemblyman Ed Flood and associate

Date Added: 5/14/2024

New York Metro (RMHC-NYM) proudly announced its partnership with Stony Brook Children’s Hospital and Stony Brook Medicine in the establishment of a transformative Ronald McDonald House. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in providing crucial support to families facing the challenges of pediatric illness.

With $24 million of the $30 million goal already raised, the Ronald McDonald House is on track to become a beacon of hope for countless families in need. Brianne Antenucci, Assistant Principal of Edna Louise Spear Elementary School and former Advisory Board member, has played a pivotal role in advancing this cause. Her unwavering dedication, alongside the generosity of family and friends, has contributed over $100,000 towards this endeavor. Ms. Antenucci’s commitment to this cause is deeply personal, as she honors the memory of her daughter, Mia Anteucci, who tragically passed away in February 2019. Her tireless efforts serve as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community in times of adversity.

The Ronald McDonald House will offer 30 family rooms equipped with essential amenities, including a movie theatre, communal office space, and kitchens. These facilities are designed to provide families with a comforting space to shower, gather, and maintain a sense of normalcy amidst the turmoil of managing their child’s illness. Moreover, the proximity to their child’s bedside within Stony Brook Children’s Hospital ensures that families remain closely connected throughout their child’s treatment journey.

Date Added: 5/9/2024

The Port Jefferson Robotics Team has emerged as a beacon of excellence at the 2024 Long Island Robotics Regional Competition, which was held at Hofstra University. Out of the 49 teams that participated in this international event, Port Jefferson was chosen for one of the most esteemed accolades: the Gracious Professionalism Award.

“One of the most rewarding parts of being a robotics coach is that you get to see the students take everything they have learned in school and life over the years, challenge themselves with real-world challenges, and come together as a team to develop a solution,” said Brian Chalmers, a Technology and Engineering teacher at Earl L. Vandermeulen High School. “Our team is a well-rehearsed, intentional, talented, and cohesive team of student engineers, I am so proud that they received the Gracious Professionalism Award.”

The Gracious Professionalism Award, one of only 14 awards given out, celebrates teams that exemplify the core values of FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), including continuous gracious professionalism, collaboration both on and off the field, fairness, humility, positivity, and respect.

Port Jefferson Robotics Team distinguished themselves through their remarkable demonstration of these principles. Their commitment to cooperation, resource sharing, and fostering connections mirrors the spirit of FIRST. The Robotics Team will be demonstrating the team’s robot at the Long Island Maker Faire on June 8, 2024, in downtown Port Jefferson.

Love on a Leash, a renowned therapy dog organization dedicated to spreading love and comfort visits the Port Jefferson School District every two weeks. Adorable dogs and their devoted handlers visit Edna Louise Spear Elementary School, Port Jefferson Middle School, and Earl L. Vandermeulen High School’s classrooms for an hour of furry companionship and heartwarming interactions.

“We are thrilled to have Love on a Leash visit our students,” said Jessica Schmettan, Superintendent of Schools. “The furry friends have a special way of brightening spirits and bringing smiles to everyone. We believe that these visits not only provide a fun and memorable experience but also promote a positive environment.”

The initiative aims to provide students with a therapeutic outlet and promote emotional well-being within the school community. Students can sign up for sessions with the therapy dogs to engage in activities such as petting, snuggling, and receiving affection. The presence of therapy dogs has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness among students, contributing to a more supportive and nurturing learning environment.

Date Added: 5/2/2024