GIRLS LACROSSE SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION IS OPEN!
To register: https://www.minisink.com/article/2999429
To register: https://www.minisink.com/article/2999429
GIRLS BASKETBALL SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION IS OPEN!
To register: https://www.minisink.com/article/2999429
To register: https://www.minisink.com/article/2999429
Finished just in time for the final day of the 2025–26 school year, a powerful new mural now stands as a lasting reminder for all middle school students: Never Give Up.
The mural was the vision of the school’s PBIS Committee, which began the year with a simple but meaningful goal—create something that would inspire students every single day as they move through the halls.
In January, the committee reached out to various clubs to invite students to take part in a project that would be both meaningful and lasting. Students were given a theme centered on perseverance, growth, and pushing through challenges. From there, many creative designs were submitted, each offering a unique interpretation of that message.
After careful consideration, one design was selected, and the project shifted from imagination to action—bringing an idea to life in a way that would be seen and felt by the entire school community.
The Craft Club and Minisink Motivates played a key role in making the mural a reality. Through their creativity, dedication, and teamwork, they transformed a concept into a vibrant work of art that now represents the spirit of the school.
More than just paint on a wall, the mural delivers a message to every student who passes by: Challenges are part of life, but perseverance and determination can carry you through anything. Above all, it reminds us all—never give up!
The mural was the vision of the school’s PBIS Committee, which began the year with a simple but meaningful goal—create something that would inspire students every single day as they move through the halls.
In January, the committee reached out to various clubs to invite students to take part in a project that would be both meaningful and lasting. Students were given a theme centered on perseverance, growth, and pushing through challenges. From there, many creative designs were submitted, each offering a unique interpretation of that message.
After careful consideration, one design was selected, and the project shifted from imagination to action—bringing an idea to life in a way that would be seen and felt by the entire school community.
The Craft Club and Minisink Motivates played a key role in making the mural a reality. Through their creativity, dedication, and teamwork, they transformed a concept into a vibrant work of art that now represents the spirit of the school.
More than just paint on a wall, the mural delivers a message to every student who passes by: Challenges are part of life, but perseverance and determination can carry you through anything. Above all, it reminds us all—never give up!
This is Otisville Principal Julia Downey’s final week at Otisville as she concludes an extraordinary 15 years of dedicated service to the school’s students, faculty, staff and families. Yesterday, June 24, the school held a surprise clap out for her!
For many students, an elementary school principal can be part of the story of their childhood. Long after students leave the hallways of their elementary school, they may often remember the principal who greeted them each morning, cheered them on at school events, comforted them through challenges, celebrated their successes, reinforced the importance to them of working hard and being kind and who helped create a school where they felt safe, valued and supported. A principal helps shape not only a school’s culture, but also the memories and experiences that stay with students for years to come.
The special and surprise clap out for Ms. Downey gave the Otisville school community a way to express its gratitude and appreciation. Just as students are celebrated when they move on to a new chapter, students, faculty and staff recognized her for her dedication to elementary academic excellence over the past decade and a half. The applause and cheers (could you hear?) that filled the halls reflected the respect, affection and admiration that so many have for her and the lasting impact she has made on generations of students.
While retirement marks the end of her time at Otisville, Ms. Downey’s legacy will be felt in the traditions she helped strengthen, the relationships she built, the countless students whose lives were made brighter by her kindness, leadership and her unwavering commitment to education excellence and the school’s success.
Please join us in thanking Ms. Downey and wish her much happiness, good health and many wonderful adventures in retirement!
See more photos on the district's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MinisinkValleyCSD/posts/pfbid0VmeXa8zeMoEgif5Vtjk2f6QRSDoYwZ6NbzKZLzMrJqvy7ajSQpSyud6mUmLK9Ad7l?__cft__[0]=AZbojvNrfuF9oQzDnRuQ9St9ZBcB4nb6m1zRBiCJsgy2PW1ynX0z4OsRbS6NpIkBXmLeSftsVEPIXJG4yJRPCyECdEied4mbNsdcdqCUB5nUp2NABFYyb7Sb60Mh6O5e9ATghBP2VgJNH67c35yPEVCSACmKxiIDmxMcP25JyKo37Q&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R
For many students, an elementary school principal can be part of the story of their childhood. Long after students leave the hallways of their elementary school, they may often remember the principal who greeted them each morning, cheered them on at school events, comforted them through challenges, celebrated their successes, reinforced the importance to them of working hard and being kind and who helped create a school where they felt safe, valued and supported. A principal helps shape not only a school’s culture, but also the memories and experiences that stay with students for years to come.
The special and surprise clap out for Ms. Downey gave the Otisville school community a way to express its gratitude and appreciation. Just as students are celebrated when they move on to a new chapter, students, faculty and staff recognized her for her dedication to elementary academic excellence over the past decade and a half. The applause and cheers (could you hear?) that filled the halls reflected the respect, affection and admiration that so many have for her and the lasting impact she has made on generations of students.
While retirement marks the end of her time at Otisville, Ms. Downey’s legacy will be felt in the traditions she helped strengthen, the relationships she built, the countless students whose lives were made brighter by her kindness, leadership and her unwavering commitment to education excellence and the school’s success.
Please join us in thanking Ms. Downey and wish her much happiness, good health and many wonderful adventures in retirement!
See more photos on the district's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MinisinkValleyCSD/posts/pfbid0VmeXa8zeMoEgif5Vtjk2f6QRSDoYwZ6NbzKZLzMrJqvy7ajSQpSyud6mUmLK9Ad7l?__cft__[0]=AZbojvNrfuF9oQzDnRuQ9St9ZBcB4nb6m1zRBiCJsgy2PW1ynX0z4OsRbS6NpIkBXmLeSftsVEPIXJG4yJRPCyECdEied4mbNsdcdqCUB5nUp2NABFYyb7Sb60Mh6O5e9ATghBP2VgJNH67c35yPEVCSACmKxiIDmxMcP25JyKo37Q&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R
Sunshine, water, and time is all it will take before these little plants become beautiful zinnias and sunflowers! Computer Teacher Teresia Parker recently tasked eighth-grader Austin Makofsky and seventh-grader Maxton Pahuki to design and build task that would provide the Middle School courtyard with a raised flower garden.
With support from Technology Teacher Jonathan Clemmons, Austin and Maxton designed and constructed the raised bed. Six-grader Adrien Kusztykiewicz led the gardening team where he worked to grow seeds and water young plants. Many students contributed to the flower garden in a variety of ways. Some students carried bags of soil and other students planted the seedlings.
"These types of activities show students that they can contribute to their school in a positive manner,” said Mrs. Parker. “And, students can bring their special talents to a project and recognize their impact can go far beyond their immediate world. Gardens also teach students responsibility for living things and patience. Sometimes we have to wait to see our hard work pay off. I'm really proud of these students."
With support from Technology Teacher Jonathan Clemmons, Austin and Maxton designed and constructed the raised bed. Six-grader Adrien Kusztykiewicz led the gardening team where he worked to grow seeds and water young plants. Many students contributed to the flower garden in a variety of ways. Some students carried bags of soil and other students planted the seedlings.
"These types of activities show students that they can contribute to their school in a positive manner,” said Mrs. Parker. “And, students can bring their special talents to a project and recognize their impact can go far beyond their immediate world. Gardens also teach students responsibility for living things and patience. Sometimes we have to wait to see our hard work pay off. I'm really proud of these students."
As the school year comes to a close, the Middle School Drama Club recently celebrated one of its favorite traditions—thanking the many people who help make its success possible!
Club Officers Elisa Vernatter, Lauren Galligan, Anisten LaRock and Molly Yourman shared sweet treats with faculty, staff and administrators to show their appreciation for the encouragement, guidance and support they provide to the Middle Drama Club throughout the year. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE!
Club Officers Elisa Vernatter, Lauren Galligan, Anisten LaRock and Molly Yourman shared sweet treats with faculty, staff and administrators to show their appreciation for the encouragement, guidance and support they provide to the Middle Drama Club throughout the year. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE!
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. "
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. "
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
GIRLS LACROSSE SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION IS OPEN!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!”
#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!”
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!
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!
