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Kudos to the Middle School Drama Club, which celebrated a successful year by recently donating books to the Middle School Library for all middle school students to enjoy.

The books are a selection of short plays, tips and tricks for auditions, improv games and techniques and music.
"I've never had a club donate a collection like this before," said Librarian Maggie Spicehandler.

Drama Club Advisor Teresia Parker noted the club is always looking for ways to give back to the community which has shown such for drama students.

“Officers Elisa Vernatter, Molly Yourman, Lauren Galligan and Anisten LaRock worked hard to make sure that the club stayed focused on making a positive impact on our school," she added. “I am proud of all of the students in our production. "
about 6 hours ago, Minisink Valley School District
drama club students
drama club students
drama club artwork
Kelly Manganiello and Tara Frawley’s Otisville fifth-graders, like all district fifth-graders, are exploring the Renaissance as part of their social studies curriculum. Through their studies, students have been learning about influential artists and works from the period, including Michelangelo, the renowned Italian sculptor, painter, architect, and poet best known for creating the iconic ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.

To bring history to life, students participated in a hands-on activity inspired by Michelangelo’s work. After securing large sheets of paper beneath their desks, students lay on the floor and created their own drawings while looking upward. The experience gave them a firsthand appreciation of the physical challenges Michelangelo may have faced while painting overhead, making their Renaissance studies both engaging and memorable.
Michelangelo is most celebrated for the Pietà, the Sistine Chapel ceiling frescoes, and the David. These works, along with his architectural designs like the dome of Saint Peter's Basilica, have cemented his legacy as a true Renaissance master.

•Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel is renowned for its stunning frescoes depicting scenes from the Old Testament. Michelangelo was commissioned by Pope Julius II to paint the ceiling between 1508 and 1512.
•Michelangelo was primarily a sculptor, not a painter, and initially resisted the commission.
•The frescoes cover a massive area, with the ceiling painting alone spanning 12,000 square feet.
•The Sistine Chapel is the site of the papal conclave, where cardinals gather to elect a new pope.
about 6 hours ago, Minisink Valley School District
students with artwork
students painting
students painting
students painting
students painting
What a beautiful evening it was yesterday, June 22, when we gathered to honor the Class of 2026 with our Baccalaureate celebration. As Graduation Day approaches, moments like these remind us not only of what our students have accomplished, but what they will continue to accomplish as they all soon begin their newest journeys.

Thank you to everyone who helped make the evening so meaningful and memorable. Your time, care, and contributions created a fitting tribute to an exceptional group of young people.

And don’t our soon-to-be graduates look incredible in their caps and gowns? Seeing them together makes this milestone feel very real. We're proud of all they have achieved and excited for this Friday’s Class of 2026 Graduation Ceremony!

See more photos on the district's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MinisinkValleyCSD/posts/pfbid02H67ecF34qi7wBxhTz8jpTPBqp5piG6YRKxDXGAJTu3C39PN9zEANwVY6VVsWtMZUl?__cft__[0]=AZZz8_uoQOcvtg25GqRGTNGL1Jle1QDJWbzZzQuXBMYHp5bE-UHw6EpL25CLEeAx9WbgN0dayu34BQrx9LWNeAECXESHnBtrK6cQ6rkIFcc0WnsRh3eXeIq9s7oUbZkEMyZmTbcyqKIhXtT-vuP0pnZbt8qCrxzG2WIgxT0eLBjhcxJcMWkKpN0GJqsHydgX3FU&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R
about 23 hours ago, Minisink Valley School District
students
students
speaker
speaker
speaker
speaker
speaker
speaker
Otisville third-graders took a recent, fabulous class trip to Museum Village in Monroe! They had opportunities to explore historic buildings, discover how people lived and worked in the 19th century, and participate in hands-on activities that brought local history to life.

Founded in 1950, Museum Village is a living history museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich heritage of the Hudson Valley region. Students enjoyed stepping back in time as they learned about early American life through interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and guided tours. The trip was both educational and memorable, giving students a deeper appreciation for history while having fun with their classmates.
1 day ago, Minisink Valley School District
students  on field trip
students on field trip
students on field trip
students on field trip
students on field trip
student on field trip
students on field trip
students on field trip
Sixth-grade Book Club students recently turned the final page on their first novel, Madeleine L’Engle’s "A Wrinkle in Time."

The story follows protagonist Meg Murry, her brilliant younger brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin as they travel across dimensions in a daring quest to rescue Meg’s father. Along the way, Meg discovers that her imperfections are part of what makes her strong and learns to embrace both herself and the love of those around her.

To celebrate this sweet literary milestone, students cooked up a creative idea: a candy salad inspired by the book. Each club member brought a candy that represented a character, theme, or memorable event from the story.
The candy connections were as imaginative as the novel itself. Sour Patch Kids represented Meg, who starts the story a bit sour before revealing her sweeter side. Gummy worms symbolized a tentacled character encountered during the adventure, while Starburst candies paid tribute to the stars that literally “burst” into action to help battle the darkness threatening their universe.

After mixing together their candy-themed cast of characters, students enjoyed Disney’s film adaptation of the novel. With candy salad in hand and the book still fresh in their minds, they had fun comparing and contrasting the movie with the original story—proving that there’s always more than one way to unwrap a good book.

Club advisors Kaitlin Santos and Noelle Ferguson are excited to see the club continue to grow next year to include all grade levels! With new titles on the shelf, new readers joining the discussion, and more creative celebrations to come, the next chapter is sure to be just as sweet
1 day ago, Minisink Valley School District
book club kids
book club kids
book club kids
book club candy
Madison Wyman’s sixth-graders recently took their learning outdoors on a gorgeous day to observe the weather firsthand. Using their background knowledge of the atmosphere and air masses, they observed and recorded temperature, climate conditions, and cloud cover while making predictions based on their findings. Students stepped into the role of meteorologists as they applied their science skills to real-world weather observations! Well-done, everyone!

Sixth-graders study meteorology because it helps them understand how weather works and how it affects everyday life. By learning about topics such as temperature, clouds, precipitation, wind, and storms, students gain a better understanding of Earth's atmosphere and the natural processes that shape weather patterns. Meteorology also teaches important scientific skills, including observing, collecting data, analyzing information, and making predictions. Studying weather helps students see the connection between science and real-world events while building a foundation for future learning about climate, the environment, and Earth systems.
2 days ago, Minisink Valley School District
students outside
students outside
students outside
students outside
Otisville Elementary students recently transformed the art room into a bustling paper-making factory, proving that one person's scraps can serve as the basis become another person's future masterpiece!

After spending the year collecting tiny paper remnants, students sorted them by color, blended them into pulp, and brought new paper to life. Using screens, sponges, and plenty of patience, they pressed, shaped, and dried their handmade creations.

Each student will take home a unique piece of recycled paper, ready to be transformed into a brand-new work of art.
This wonderfully hands-on (and admittedly messy!) project was more than an art lesson—it was a lesson in sustainability, creativity, collaboration, and cooperation. The students learned firsthand that with a little teamwork and imagination, even the smallest scraps can be given a second life.
2 days ago, Minisink Valley School District
kids in art class
kids in art class
kids in art class
kids in art class
kids in art class
kids in art class
art lesson
paper
GIRLS LACROSSE SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION IS OPEN!
5 days ago, Minisink Valley School District
girls lacrosse camp artwork
The Otisville K-Kids recently visited the Humane Society of Walden and enjoyed a meaningful hands-on learning experience. During their visit, students learned about the important work involved in caring for shelter animals—from their first arrival at the shelter to their daily care while they await their forever homes.

The students had the opportunity to meet a puppy and several kittens, read stories to some of the resident cats, and assist shelter staff by folding freshly washed blankets for the animals.

In addition to their visit, the K-Kids organized a collection drive and delivered a generous donation of much-needed supplies, including:
• 205 cans of wet food
• 55 pounds of dry food
• 30 toys
• 3 large bottles of cleaner
• 3 nursing kits and 1 container of formula
• 2 boxes of disposable gloves
• 50 pads
• 1 blanket
• 4 litter box scoopers
• 90 waste bags
• 27 bags and boxes of cat and dog treats
• 1 food/water bowl

Field trips like this help students connect classroom learning to real-world experiences. They encourage empathy, responsibility, community service, and an understanding of how local organizations make a difference. By seeing firsthand the care and dedication required to support animals in need, students gained valuable lessons that extend far beyond the classroom.
Well done to all of the K-Kids for their kindness, hard work, and generosity!
6 days ago, Minisink Valley School District
otisville kids at humane society
otisville kids at humane society
otisville kids at humane society
otisville kids at humane society
otisville kids at humane society
The High School Ministock Club’s annual Ministock Music Festival Fundraiser was a fantastic afternoon filled with talent, creativity and community spirit. Students, alumni and teachers took the stage to share performances they had been rehearsing, showcasing the dedication and passion that make music so special. This recent Saturday afternoon celebrated and reinforced the power of music has in bringing people together.

THANK YOU to everyone who attended, performed, volunteered and supported the event, including the festival guests and Dave’s Devil Dogs Food Truck. Thanks to your generosity and enthusiasm, the fundraiser was a great success in supporting the high school music program!

Take a peek at a sampling of the day and relive some of the music, memories, and moments that made this year’s Ministock Festival one to remember!
6 days ago, Minisink Valley School District
musicians
musicians
musicians
audience and guests
musicians
musicians
musicians
musicians
Congratulations and best wishes to the senior members of the Boys Lacrosse Team, who were honored at their recent Senior Game for their many contributions to the team’s success:
#25 Stetson Terpak
#6 Justin Olivo
#29 Keegan Holmes
#23 Wyatt Dul
During that game, the team continued with new tradition that began last year: The post game “youth pass and catch!”
7 days ago, Minisink Valley School District
lacrosse players
lacrosse players
We are always grateful when alumni return to share their experiences and inspire our students.

A big thank-you to Class of 2010 alumnus Peter Schwarz, the son of employee Maggie Schwarz, and his wife Janelle Schwarz for buzzing into Jennifer Levin’s elementary school second-grade classroom for a very “bee-autiful” virtual visit all about beekeeping!

Mr. and Mrs. Schwarz, who are both beekeepers in addition to their careers, shared their hands-on knowledge of the hive life — giving students a closer look at how a honey bee colony really works. These second-graders were fascinated to learn about the queen bee who leads the hive, the busy worker bees who gather nectar while foraging from flower to flower, the important role bees play in pollination that helps plants grow and much more!

This virtual experience was the perfect complement to the second-grade insect unit,which includes the study of the honey bee life cycle. It brought classroom learning to life in a sweet and unforgettable way—and definitely had everyone “buzzing” with excitement!
7 days ago, Minisink Valley School District
students in class
students in class
beekeeper
students in class
students in class
students in class
The High School Library held its first-ever Overdue Book Roundup Challenge from June 8 to 15, to see who could return the most overdue library book. Students were encouraged to search bedrooms, bookshelves, backpacks, closets and any other mysterious locations where library books like to hide!

After a week of processing returns, we have a winner! Congratulations to junior (and Knicks fan!) Jason Wackowski-Hernandez, who returned a library book that had been checked out since Jan. 25, 2024! That's some impressive detective work! Jason received a Dunkin gift card for helping reunite a long-lost book with its library home!

This contest was a fun reminder that returning library books helps make them available for other students to enjoy or use for school work. If your student (in any building) still has library books at home, please return them to their respective school libraries. Students who aren't sure if they owe a book will find email notices reminding them their books are due.
Every returned book helps — and who knows what treasures you will be discovered while searching!

7 days ago, Minisink Valley School District
library contest winner
With smiles and excitement, Angela Dombal, Jordan Procak, and Sally Mankoo’s kindergarten classes and Marjori Bobish's transitional kindergarteners recently took part in a very special butterfly release! Thanks to the generosity of the ES PTO, every kindergarten class received butterflies to raise and release.

Before saying goodbye to their beautiful butterflies, the children gathered outside to enjoy a story together. Then, they watched in wonder as the butterflies spread their wings and fluttered off into nature.

A butterfly release is a meaningful experience for young students because it helps them see firsthand how living things grow and change. After learning about the butterfly life cycle in the classroom, students were able to witness the final stage of this amazing transformation.

Activities like this spark curiosity, encourage a love of nature, and create lasting memories through hands-on learning. Plus, it’s also an opportunity to reinforce kindness, patience and a sense of care for nature.

THANK YOU again, to the ES PTO!
8 days ago, Minisink Valley School District
butterfly release
butterfly release
butterfly release
butterfly release
butterfly release
butterfly release
WHAT A COOL CELEBRATION!
Take a look at Otisville’s Fifth-Grade Celebration, held this past Friday at the Otisville Firehouse! From the creative theme to all the smiling faces, it was a night to remember. The frosty décor couldn't have been more perfect for beating Friday’s summer heat!
THANK YOU to the Otisville PTO and all the volunteers for making the evening so special for these soon-to-be sixth-graders!
8 days ago, Minisink Valley School District
students at dance
students at dance
faculty at dance
students at dance
students at dance
students at dance
students at dance
Congratulations to four members of the Boys Varsity Lacrosse Team for their recent honors!

The recipient of the 2026 USA Lacrosse Bob Scott Award is #29 Keegan Holmes! This award recognizes a player who goes above and beyond in service to his team, school, and community while demonstrating leadership, commitment and character.

The award is named in honor of Bob Scott, a legendary member of the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame and the former long-time head coach at Johns Hopkins University. Scott coached the Blue Jays from 1955 to 1974, securing 158 victories and seven national championships. He wrote the foundational book "Lacrosse: Technique and Tradition."

Named to All-Section teams:
•First Team All-Section Attackman: #3 Mike Holland
•First Team All-Section Short Stick Defensive Midfielder: #25 Stetson Terpak
•Second Team All-Section Long Stick Midfielder: #22 Chris Thorpe

“We could not be prouder to have these four young men that have been recognized for their contributions,” said Head Coach Chad Lakeman. “Each one of these athletes is without a doubt deserving of these honors. These accolades are the result of hard work, commitment, and a willingness to go above and beyond as athletes, teammates and members of the Minisink Valley community.”
8 days ago, Minisink Valley School District
LAX player
LAX player
LAX player
LAX player

Meet the “new students” in Erin Chase and Emilia Chrobak's ES first-grade classes: BABY CHICKS!

Watching eggs hatch in the classroom is more than an exciting surprise—it gives first graders a front-row seat to science in action. From life cycles and observation skills to responsibility and wonder, these tiny arrivals are teaching some big lessons! PLUS: the faces on the little first-graders are just too cute! How wouldn't love to hold a newborn chick?

9 days ago, Minisink Valley School District
kids with baby chicks
kids in class
kids in class
kids with chicks
kids with chicks
kids with chicks
hatching chicks
hatching chicks
Otisville Elementary held an all-school assembly on June 12, to commemorate Flag Day, which is celebrated on June 14 each year.

In addition to reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, students sang patriotic songs that music teachers Skyler Klein and Maria Fenfert taught this school year. A special shout-out to fifth-graders Hunter Walsh, Ella Capalbo and Evan Jackson, who read history of Flag Day and shared interesting facts about the U.S. flag. Well-done!

Commemorating Flag Day helps students learn about the history and meaning of the American flag and the values it represents, such as freedom, unity, and respect while continuing to provide students with an opportunity to explore national symbols, understand important traditions, and continue to develop a sense of civic responsibility, national pride and citizenry.

It commemorates June 14, 1777, when the Adoption of the Flag Resolution established the official design of the American flag.
9 days ago, Minisink Valley School District
flag day students
students at assembly
students at assembly
students at assembly
students at assembly
students at assembly
students at assembly
We proudly present the 2025-26 edition of “The Explorer,” the High School’s Literary Magazine!
We invite you to read this collection of outstanding of student literary pieces, supported by beautiful artwork, via this link:

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1L7Vypxuh_yEym8UwFGg8MQ8xGg2bGaEOf5sQ8fUpoM4/edit?slide=id.p#slide=id.p
9 days ago, Minisink Valley School District
Literary magazine cover
OFF AND RUNNING!
Please join us in wishing the members of our Varsity Track & Field team the best of luck as they head to the NYSPHSAA Track & Field Championships this weekend in Webster, which is near Rochester.

Whether they’re exploding out of the blocks in the meter dash, chasing a personal record in the meter run, clearing the bar in the high jump and pole vault, flying through the air in the long jump, navigating the barriers of the steeplechase, or making smooth baton exchanges in the relay events, our athletes have put in the work to earn their place on the state stage.

Now it’s time to trust their training, compete with confidence, and leave it all on the track and in the field. After months of training, competing, and pushing the limits, they're set to take their marks and represent Minisink Valley with distinction! Good luck to all of our championship qualifiers—we'll be cheering you on every stride, jump, vault, and lap of the way! We can’t wait to see them sprint, soar, vault, and race their way through an unforgettable championship weekend.

12 days ago, Minisink Valley School District
track athletes
track athletes
track athletes
track athletes
track athletes and superintendent
track sendoff
track athletes