Otisville second-graders took a recent, wonderful field trip to the Orange County Arboretum, the 35-acre public garden and environmental education center in Montgomery, within Thomas Bull Memorial Park.
Students were able to plant tomatoes to bring home to their own garden, play with worms (now, who doesn’t love playing with squiggly worms?) while learning their importance to composting and learning all about bees as pollinators.
A class trip like this is an excellent learning experience for these young students because it brings classroom science lessons to life in a hands-on, memorable way. Visiting the Orange County Arboretum allowed students to explore nature directly instead of only reading about it in books.
By planting tomatoes, students learned about how plants grow and gained a sense of responsibility as they care for something living at home. Activities like exploring worms and composting helped them understand ecosystems and the important role even small creatures play in keeping soil healthy. Learning about bees as pollinators introduced students to the connection between insects, flowers, and food production in an engaging and age-appropriate way.
Field trips also encourage curiosity, teamwork, and observation skills. Outdoor learning supports social development, builds enthusiasm for science and helps children make lasting connections between their curriculum and the real world. Most importantly, experiences like this inspire a lifelong appreciation for nature and environmental stewardship while making learning fun and meaningful.
The Orange County Arboretum features beautifully landscaped gardens, walking paths, ponds, waterfalls, and extensive collections of trees, shrubs, and native plants designed to promote learning about horticulture, ecology, and conservation. Visitors can explore themed gardens, enjoy scenic views of the Shawangunk Mountains, and experience a peaceful outdoor setting that serves as both a recreational destination and a living classroom for students, gardeners, and nature lovers.
Students were able to plant tomatoes to bring home to their own garden, play with worms (now, who doesn’t love playing with squiggly worms?) while learning their importance to composting and learning all about bees as pollinators.
A class trip like this is an excellent learning experience for these young students because it brings classroom science lessons to life in a hands-on, memorable way. Visiting the Orange County Arboretum allowed students to explore nature directly instead of only reading about it in books.
By planting tomatoes, students learned about how plants grow and gained a sense of responsibility as they care for something living at home. Activities like exploring worms and composting helped them understand ecosystems and the important role even small creatures play in keeping soil healthy. Learning about bees as pollinators introduced students to the connection between insects, flowers, and food production in an engaging and age-appropriate way.
Field trips also encourage curiosity, teamwork, and observation skills. Outdoor learning supports social development, builds enthusiasm for science and helps children make lasting connections between their curriculum and the real world. Most importantly, experiences like this inspire a lifelong appreciation for nature and environmental stewardship while making learning fun and meaningful.
The Orange County Arboretum features beautifully landscaped gardens, walking paths, ponds, waterfalls, and extensive collections of trees, shrubs, and native plants designed to promote learning about horticulture, ecology, and conservation. Visitors can explore themed gardens, enjoy scenic views of the Shawangunk Mountains, and experience a peaceful outdoor setting that serves as both a recreational destination and a living classroom for students, gardeners, and nature lovers.
Congratulations to Unified Basketball team members Jonathan Franco-Coelho and Kathleen Gutierrez, who were honored for their many contributions to the team’s success during the team’s recent Senior Game. That same day, the team hosted its “America Night” game against Valley Central. Thank you to members of American Legion Post 1607 for attending!
We’re always grateful for a community that supports our student-athletes with their time and skills!
Please join us in thanking trainer Jon Richardson and Crunch Fitness in Middletown for recently spending time with our Unified Basketball team and overseeing a special strength training session with them!
Mr. Richardson worked with team members in the high school’s new Weight Room and Cardio Fitness Center, bringing incredible energy and fun to their strength training session. These student-athletes worked hard while learning the awesome benefits of strength training:
• Injury Prevention: Builds stronger joints to keep players safe.
• Better Performance: Improves power, speed, and court skills.
• Confidence Boost: Proves to our athletes what they are capable of!
• Team Bonding: Nothing brings a team closer than crushing a workout together!
Please join us in thanking trainer Jon Richardson and Crunch Fitness in Middletown for recently spending time with our Unified Basketball team and overseeing a special strength training session with them!
Mr. Richardson worked with team members in the high school’s new Weight Room and Cardio Fitness Center, bringing incredible energy and fun to their strength training session. These student-athletes worked hard while learning the awesome benefits of strength training:
• Injury Prevention: Builds stronger joints to keep players safe.
• Better Performance: Improves power, speed, and court skills.
• Confidence Boost: Proves to our athletes what they are capable of!
• Team Bonding: Nothing brings a team closer than crushing a workout together!
The Varsity Baseball team honored its senior players for their many contributions to the team's success during its recent Senior Game! Congratulations and best wishes to:
#1 - Blake Kizer - 2 years on varsity - Catcher & Outfielder
#7 - Liam Barry - 2 years on varsity - Pitcher, 1st Baseman, Outfielder
#11 - Gavin Capper - 2 years on varsity - Outfielder & Pitcher
#13 - Gavin Brown - 2 years on varsity - Shortstop & Pitcher
#14 - Will Burretto - 2 years on varsity - Infielder & Pitcher
#22 - Chris McCauley - 3 years on varsity - Pitcher, Outfielder, 1st Baseman
#1 - Blake Kizer - 2 years on varsity - Catcher & Outfielder
#7 - Liam Barry - 2 years on varsity - Pitcher, 1st Baseman, Outfielder
#11 - Gavin Capper - 2 years on varsity - Outfielder & Pitcher
#13 - Gavin Brown - 2 years on varsity - Shortstop & Pitcher
#14 - Will Burretto - 2 years on varsity - Infielder & Pitcher
#22 - Chris McCauley - 3 years on varsity - Pitcher, Outfielder, 1st Baseman
Brendan McGann’s High School SUPA College Forensic Science students recently stepped into the role of forensic anthropologists as they analyzed skeletal remains to uncover the biological story hidden within the bones.
Using techniques employed in real forensic investigations, students examined skeletal features to help determine biological sex, estimate age range, identify possible trauma, and interpret clues that could contribute to understanding cause and manner of death. Through careful observation and scientific reasoning, they learned how the human skeleton can provide remarkable insight long after soft tissue is gone.
Labs like this are important because they allow students to apply science in a hands-on, real-world way instead of only learning from textbooks. By analyzing skeletal remains, students practice critical thinking, observation and evidence-based reasoning while learning how forensic scientists use bones to determine information such as age, sex, trauma, and possible cause of death. These activities make biology and anatomy more engaging and meaningful.
This connects to real life because forensic anthropology is used in actual criminal investigations, disaster victim identification, archaeology, and medical research. Students also build skills that are valuable in many careers, including problem-solving, teamwork, communication, and scientific analysis. Labs like this help students see how science can be used to solve real problems and better understand the world around them.
Using techniques employed in real forensic investigations, students examined skeletal features to help determine biological sex, estimate age range, identify possible trauma, and interpret clues that could contribute to understanding cause and manner of death. Through careful observation and scientific reasoning, they learned how the human skeleton can provide remarkable insight long after soft tissue is gone.
Labs like this are important because they allow students to apply science in a hands-on, real-world way instead of only learning from textbooks. By analyzing skeletal remains, students practice critical thinking, observation and evidence-based reasoning while learning how forensic scientists use bones to determine information such as age, sex, trauma, and possible cause of death. These activities make biology and anatomy more engaging and meaningful.
This connects to real life because forensic anthropology is used in actual criminal investigations, disaster victim identification, archaeology, and medical research. Students also build skills that are valuable in many careers, including problem-solving, teamwork, communication, and scientific analysis. Labs like this help students see how science can be used to solve real problems and better understand the world around them.
The King Arthur Baking Co. helped make Pizza Day another recent success for Victoria Ingrassia’s sixth-grade FACS students, donating both flour and a homemade pizza recipe for the class’s latest hands-on cooking lesson.
Students mixed, shaped, and baked their own pizzas while learning fundamental kitchen skills and a few authentic pizza-making techniques along the way — from kneading dough to developing the right crust texture. They also discovered that pizza dough benefits from “proofing,” the resting process that helps create a lighter, airier crust.
The project offered students the chance to prepare one of the world’s most popular comfort foods completely from scratch, reinforcing practical life skills and teamwork in the kitchen. PLUS --- middle school faculty members were invited to stop by and enjoy a slice fresh from the oven.
“They were so thrilled to have us join them,” said teacher Joanna Dolan. “Moments like these are so appreciated and reminded me of how much students really can love learning and apply in real life what they are being taught.”
Beyond the fun of making pizza, students also gained experience reading recipes, measuring ingredients, and understanding how simple ingredients like flour, yeast, water, and time work together to create a classic homemade dough — a process bakers often refer to as the “science behind the crust.”
KUDOS to the members of the Middle School’s Pet Club and the High School’s Environmental Club, who recently teamed up to collect essential supplies for animals in need at the Middletown Humane Society.
Their donations were made possible through the generosity of those who supported their collection efforts. Donated items collected included kibble, litter, pet pads and dog beds --- which will definitely be put good use.
Club members send their thanks to all donors and wanted to share that Human Society staff was deeply appreciative of the generosity.
Founded in 1959, the Middletown Humane Society is a No-Kill, privately run animal shelter serving the City of Middletown as well as surrounding communities. The shelter is funded only through the generosity of supporters, so every donation matters. To learn more, visit: https://middletownhumanesociety.com/
Their donations were made possible through the generosity of those who supported their collection efforts. Donated items collected included kibble, litter, pet pads and dog beds --- which will definitely be put good use.
Club members send their thanks to all donors and wanted to share that Human Society staff was deeply appreciative of the generosity.
Founded in 1959, the Middletown Humane Society is a No-Kill, privately run animal shelter serving the City of Middletown as well as surrounding communities. The shelter is funded only through the generosity of supporters, so every donation matters. To learn more, visit: https://middletownhumanesociety.com/
Congratulations to the winners of the Otisville Fastest Runner race, a half-mile race, held May 22! Twenty-four students participated with a huge number of spectators cheering them on! Take a look!
Top 3 boys:
1. Pierson Ferrantello (3 minutes)
2. Miguel Fermin (3:02 minutes)
3. John Borello (3:04 minutes)
Top 3 girls:
1. Harper Lagarde (3:36 minutes)
2. Aria Basso (3:55 minutes)
3. Melody Johnson (4:22 minutes)
THANK YOU to JV/Varsity Coaches Nichole Gaucher and ED Sucich, Modified Cross Country Coach Vincent Napolitano, Junior JV/Varsity Cross Country runner Elijah Zittel and National Honor Society members Jerry Yang and R.J. Sosler for their efforts to make the race a success!
Top 3 boys:
1. Pierson Ferrantello (3 minutes)
2. Miguel Fermin (3:02 minutes)
3. John Borello (3:04 minutes)
Top 3 girls:
1. Harper Lagarde (3:36 minutes)
2. Aria Basso (3:55 minutes)
3. Melody Johnson (4:22 minutes)
THANK YOU to JV/Varsity Coaches Nichole Gaucher and ED Sucich, Modified Cross Country Coach Vincent Napolitano, Junior JV/Varsity Cross Country runner Elijah Zittel and National Honor Society members Jerry Yang and R.J. Sosler for their efforts to make the race a success!
The Eighth-Grade Band and Chorus ensembles recently traveled to Chicopee High School in Massachusetts to perform at the Trills and Thrills Music Festival, where they showcased some of their favorite selections from the school year. Both ensembles performed for adjudicators who evaluated the groups on a variety of musical elements, including technical accuracy, musicality, and artistic interpretation. Kudos to all of the students for their hard work, preparation and performances; and to the music faculty for ensuring their music festival success!
The band performed Alan Silvestri’s “Captain America March,” arranged by Paul Murtha; “Shenandoah,” arranged by Robert Sheldon; and “The Great Locomotive Chase” by Robert W. Smith.
The chorus performed “Found/Tonight” by Benj Pasek, Justin Paul, and Lin-Manuel Miranda, arranged by Jacob Narverud; as well as “Count the Stars,” arranged by Andy Beck.
Following the festival, students enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon at Six Flags New England, making the trip both a musical and memorable experience.
The band performed Alan Silvestri’s “Captain America March,” arranged by Paul Murtha; “Shenandoah,” arranged by Robert Sheldon; and “The Great Locomotive Chase” by Robert W. Smith.
The chorus performed “Found/Tonight” by Benj Pasek, Justin Paul, and Lin-Manuel Miranda, arranged by Jacob Narverud; as well as “Count the Stars,” arranged by Andy Beck.
Following the festival, students enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon at Six Flags New England, making the trip both a musical and memorable experience.
Joseph Ferara’s ES second-graders are inching, stretching and measuring their way through math and science! Like all district second-graders, students are learning about the important measurement concepts of inches, feet and yards. They first explored what each type of measurement means and discovered the different tools used to measure objects accurately, including rulers and yardsticks.
Then came the fun part — turning the classroom into a giant measurement lab! Students traveled around the room measuring just about everything they could find: Doors, windows, bookbags, whiteboards, pencils and more. If it could be measured, these curious learners were ready for the challenge!
Before measuring, students had to think like mathematicians and scientists by deciding whether a ruler or a yardstick would work best. They also practiced estimating how long or tall an object might be before checking the actual measurement. This hands-on activity not only strengthened their understanding of measurement skills and math vocabulary, but also introduced an important science concept: Forming hypotheses and testing predictions, which are key parts of the scientific method.
By combining math, science and teamwork, these young learners proved that learning can measure up to a lot of fun!
Then came the fun part — turning the classroom into a giant measurement lab! Students traveled around the room measuring just about everything they could find: Doors, windows, bookbags, whiteboards, pencils and more. If it could be measured, these curious learners were ready for the challenge!
Before measuring, students had to think like mathematicians and scientists by deciding whether a ruler or a yardstick would work best. They also practiced estimating how long or tall an object might be before checking the actual measurement. This hands-on activity not only strengthened their understanding of measurement skills and math vocabulary, but also introduced an important science concept: Forming hypotheses and testing predictions, which are key parts of the scientific method.
By combining math, science and teamwork, these young learners proved that learning can measure up to a lot of fun!
Patriotism lessons continued in the Intermediate School yesterday, May 21, when members of the American Legion George Smith Post 1607 of Unionville visited all fifth-grade classes to talk about Memorial Day. We’re grateful for the interest of members of the Post in helping educate our students.
As part of their visit, members explained why Post 1607 was named after Sgt. George Smith, citing his bravery and sacrifice during World War II in the European Theater.
Visits like these help bring history to life, give students a deeper understanding of service and sacrifice, and encourage respect for the men and women who have served our country.
As part of their visit, members explained why Post 1607 was named after Sgt. George Smith, citing his bravery and sacrifice during World War II in the European Theater.
Visits like these help bring history to life, give students a deeper understanding of service and sacrifice, and encourage respect for the men and women who have served our country.
Like all district fifth-graders, Alexis Covais’ IS fifth-graders have been exploring the CKLA Ocean unit through the Core Knowledge Foundation curriculum, where they’ve been diving into the ocean as a massive, interconnected “blue world” that covers most of Earth and helps regulate global climate.
For example, students now know how oceans are divided into different zones—such as the sunlight, twilight, and deep ocean zones—each with unique conditions that affect the plants and animals living there.
Students also explored marine ecosystems and food chains, showing how energy flows from tiny organisms like plankton to larger predators such as fish and sharks. Additionally, they learned about ocean features, including currents, tides, and the ocean floor, and how these movements influence weather and climate around the world. Finally, the unit emphasizes human impacts on oceans, including pollution and overfishing, and highlights the importance of conservation to protect marine environments.
To wrap up this unit, students researched a marine animal of their choice and presented it in creative ways like slides or models, sharing details about adaptations, diet, and fun facts, while practicing growing research and presentation skills. Well-done, everyone!
THANK YOU to the members of the American Legion George Smith Post 1607 of Unionville, who visited Ashley Beairsto and Lauren Pullen’s sixth-grade social studies class earlier this week to speak with students about the true meaning of Memorial Day.
The visit gave students a meaningful opportunity to hear firsthand from local veterans who served our country with honor and dedication. Each veteran shared stories and experiences from their time in the military, while Becky Olah, Ladies Auxiliary Member, explained the history and importance of Memorial Day and the sacrifices made by America’s service members.
Representing Post 1607 were: Art Olah, Air Force, Vietnam era; Nick Solimando, Navy Seabees, Cold War era; Paul Gale, Army, Vietnam era; and Erik Manzie, Army, Iraqi Freedom, along with Auxiliary members Becky Olah, Fran Solimando, Sue Manzie, and junior member Ella Manzie.
Visits like these help keep the spirit of patriotism, service, and remembrance alive for the next generation. By connecting students with veterans from their own community, we ensure that the sacrifices made for our freedoms are never forgotten.
Thank you all for your service, sacrifice, and continued commitment to educating our students and honoring our nation’s heroes.
The visit gave students a meaningful opportunity to hear firsthand from local veterans who served our country with honor and dedication. Each veteran shared stories and experiences from their time in the military, while Becky Olah, Ladies Auxiliary Member, explained the history and importance of Memorial Day and the sacrifices made by America’s service members.
Representing Post 1607 were: Art Olah, Air Force, Vietnam era; Nick Solimando, Navy Seabees, Cold War era; Paul Gale, Army, Vietnam era; and Erik Manzie, Army, Iraqi Freedom, along with Auxiliary members Becky Olah, Fran Solimando, Sue Manzie, and junior member Ella Manzie.
Visits like these help keep the spirit of patriotism, service, and remembrance alive for the next generation. By connecting students with veterans from their own community, we ensure that the sacrifices made for our freedoms are never forgotten.
Thank you all for your service, sacrifice, and continued commitment to educating our students and honoring our nation’s heroes.
Congratulations to Junior Ethan Rodriguez, who won the OCIAA High School Championship Tennis Tournament, yesterday, May 20! He now advances to sectionals next week!
Varsity Coach Michael Sirico proudly notes that Ethan is now ranked as the No. 1 boys tennis player in Orange County. That’s huge!
Congratulations to eighth-grader and Girls Varsity Lacrosse goalie Olivia Gonzalez on reaching 100 saves — an incredible milestone! Reaching 100 saves reflects not only outstanding reflexes and skill, but also consistency, toughness, composure under pressure, and her major impact on her team’s success throughout the season. As Coach Jessica Gurrieri stressed: “This is truly an amazing achievement for an eighth-grader” and a sign of tremendous talent and potential ahead.
Who remembers frog and/or fetal pig dissection in biology lab? We probably all had the chance to do this, and that includes Brendan McGann’s High School “College Biology” students!
These labs allow students to move beyond diagrams in a textbook and see firsthand how anatomy is organized, how organ systems interact and how structure supports function --- which makes biology becomes real and tangible.
“The frog and fetal pig dissection labs become some of the more memorable experiences of the biology course,” said Mr. MGann. “At first, there may be nervousness, hesitation or general curiosity, but very quickly those emotions often transform into fascination and genuine scientific inquiry. I hope these moments become more than just ‘dissections.’ They’re opportunities to teach respect for life, professionalism in science, teamwork, critical thinking and the importance of observation. For many students, it is also the first time they realize they may have an interest in medicine, veterinary science, forensics or research. It's great to see students recognize that science is not simply memorization. It is exploration, curiosity, and understanding the living world.”
Frogs and pigs are chosen for dissection because they represent different groups of vertebrates:
• Frogs show adaptations for amphibian life.
• Fetal pigs are mammals and have anatomy surprisingly similar to humans.
Comparing them helps students understand evolutionary relationships and shared vertebrate body plans.
These labs allow students to move beyond diagrams in a textbook and see firsthand how anatomy is organized, how organ systems interact and how structure supports function --- which makes biology becomes real and tangible.
“The frog and fetal pig dissection labs become some of the more memorable experiences of the biology course,” said Mr. MGann. “At first, there may be nervousness, hesitation or general curiosity, but very quickly those emotions often transform into fascination and genuine scientific inquiry. I hope these moments become more than just ‘dissections.’ They’re opportunities to teach respect for life, professionalism in science, teamwork, critical thinking and the importance of observation. For many students, it is also the first time they realize they may have an interest in medicine, veterinary science, forensics or research. It's great to see students recognize that science is not simply memorization. It is exploration, curiosity, and understanding the living world.”
Frogs and pigs are chosen for dissection because they represent different groups of vertebrates:
• Frogs show adaptations for amphibian life.
• Fetal pigs are mammals and have anatomy surprisingly similar to humans.
Comparing them helps students understand evolutionary relationships and shared vertebrate body plans.
After weeks of adventure, laughter and literary exploration, Tara Frawley and Kelly Manganiello’s Otisville fifth-graders proudly completed their study of "Don Quixote!"
Students brought the story to life through a recent and lively Readers Theater performance, showcasing their creativity, expression, and hard work. The characters and scenes unfolded as students stepped into the roles of knights, squires, and storytellers — each taking up the spirit of the tale with imagination worthy of La Mancha. A Readers Theater performance allows a story to be told by reading it aloud, rather than memorizing lines or acting with full costumes and sets. Teachers use this approach because it helps build reading fluency and public speaking skills, strengthens comprehension as students come to understand their characters, and encourages teamwork and listening skills.
Following the performance, the class gathered for a festive feast inspired by the spirit of Don Quixote to celebrate all they accomplished together. Like the hero himself after a long quest, students shared in the rewards of their journey. It was a memorable afternoon filled with learning, laughter and celebration.
Most fifth-grade classes read adapted or abridged versions of Miguel de Cervantes’ "Don Quixote," because it's widely considered a gateway to classic literature. The core story is fun and memorable: A man imagines himself as a knight and sets out on grand adventures — famously tilting at windmills. Teachers often use the novel to explore themes like imagination versus reality, courage, and how perspective shapes what we see. In addition to building reading stamina and vocabulary, the unit also opens the door to broader lessons about history, storytelling, and even how modern media reimagines timeless ideas.
Students brought the story to life through a recent and lively Readers Theater performance, showcasing their creativity, expression, and hard work. The characters and scenes unfolded as students stepped into the roles of knights, squires, and storytellers — each taking up the spirit of the tale with imagination worthy of La Mancha. A Readers Theater performance allows a story to be told by reading it aloud, rather than memorizing lines or acting with full costumes and sets. Teachers use this approach because it helps build reading fluency and public speaking skills, strengthens comprehension as students come to understand their characters, and encourages teamwork and listening skills.
Following the performance, the class gathered for a festive feast inspired by the spirit of Don Quixote to celebrate all they accomplished together. Like the hero himself after a long quest, students shared in the rewards of their journey. It was a memorable afternoon filled with learning, laughter and celebration.
Most fifth-grade classes read adapted or abridged versions of Miguel de Cervantes’ "Don Quixote," because it's widely considered a gateway to classic literature. The core story is fun and memorable: A man imagines himself as a knight and sets out on grand adventures — famously tilting at windmills. Teachers often use the novel to explore themes like imagination versus reality, courage, and how perspective shapes what we see. In addition to building reading stamina and vocabulary, the unit also opens the door to broader lessons about history, storytelling, and even how modern media reimagines timeless ideas.
The district’s K-12 Art Show, held last evening, was a vibrantly gorgeous celebration of student creativity, showcasing an impressive collection of artwork created across a wide range of mediums, alongside exceptional work from our media, production and film students.
From expressive compositions and striking use of color to thoughtful mixed-media pieces and digital storytelling, the exhibit transformed the high school cafeteria and auditorium into a true gallery experience!
We hope many of you were able to attend and witness the tremendous talent of our student artists representing all five district buildings. Events like these are a wonderful reminder of the power of the arts to bring a community together — connecting students, families, educators, and neighbors through creativity, imagination and shared pride.
Hundreds of proud students and even prouder families filled the show to celebrate not only the artwork created by the children in their own lives, but also to admire and encourage the work of all participating artists. The evening reflected the collaborative spirit and cultural richness that make our school community so special.
THANK YOU to the district’s art faculty for curating such a magnificent and thoughtfully installed exhibition, to everyone who supported the scholarship auction of furniture and clocks and to the high school’s Step Dance Team for their dynamic performance!
See more photos on the district's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MinisinkValleyCSD/posts/pfbid02xsVFMrvxVVmJZ5QCMgC5PBeeDvgjMzEZAQiA3r3UCDQd6VXq3f7qhtXBFKe9kqk5l?__cft__[0]=AZbX_xIm4L32rE1Jz-gzl63jTzYc8uLFmA00ZZsY8-PauqmUM1qQr6LQOuWkz-N_YQk0FD-namhvBdHhCGK9OOS8w_T4Ixck8vf4xCaPuVynUx4GLCTunm1bx-01w_PywuC7LBK3zN28jrW82BiNux0sU_k7QP6L9WjGGgdR9H5ZTA&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R
From expressive compositions and striking use of color to thoughtful mixed-media pieces and digital storytelling, the exhibit transformed the high school cafeteria and auditorium into a true gallery experience!
We hope many of you were able to attend and witness the tremendous talent of our student artists representing all five district buildings. Events like these are a wonderful reminder of the power of the arts to bring a community together — connecting students, families, educators, and neighbors through creativity, imagination and shared pride.
Hundreds of proud students and even prouder families filled the show to celebrate not only the artwork created by the children in their own lives, but also to admire and encourage the work of all participating artists. The evening reflected the collaborative spirit and cultural richness that make our school community so special.
THANK YOU to the district’s art faculty for curating such a magnificent and thoughtfully installed exhibition, to everyone who supported the scholarship auction of furniture and clocks and to the high school’s Step Dance Team for their dynamic performance!
See more photos on the district's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MinisinkValleyCSD/posts/pfbid02xsVFMrvxVVmJZ5QCMgC5PBeeDvgjMzEZAQiA3r3UCDQd6VXq3f7qhtXBFKe9kqk5l?__cft__[0]=AZbX_xIm4L32rE1Jz-gzl63jTzYc8uLFmA00ZZsY8-PauqmUM1qQr6LQOuWkz-N_YQk0FD-namhvBdHhCGK9OOS8w_T4Ixck8vf4xCaPuVynUx4GLCTunm1bx-01w_PywuC7LBK3zN28jrW82BiNux0sU_k7QP6L9WjGGgdR9H5ZTA&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R
The High School Drama Club’s recent Drama Club Banquet and Awards Ceremony at Shannen Park celebrated the club’s amazing accomplishments and performances of this school year, which also featured ”Paper Plate Awards” from drama seniors recognizing funny and meaningful memories in the drama program. Congratulations to all!
Recognitions and awards included:
Best Actor from Arsenic and Old Lace: Gavin McGinnis
Best Actress from Arsenic and Old Lace: Hana Ebbert
Best Supporting Actress from Arsenic and Old Lace: Keira Everle
Best Actor from Spamalot: Chris Cinelli
Best Actress from Spamalot: Gianna Pecorella and Heather Day
Best Supporting Actor from Spamalot: Hunter Gomez
MVP Stage Crew from Arsenic and Old Lace: Leah Hoolan
MVP Stage Crew from Spamalot: Logan Hujus
MVP Pit Orchestra Musician: Nolan Mann
MVP Tech Crew: Josh Gellar
MVP House: Lorine Avril
Most Improved Crew Member: Gavin Hoolan
Most Improved Pit Member: Brice Jashembowski
Most Improved Freshman Cast Member: Aryanna Torelli
Most Improved Sophomore Cast Member: Gianna Pecorella
Most Improved Junior Cast Member: Katie Warnken
Most Improved Senior Cast Member: Faith Padavano
NYSTEA Award recognizing student excellence and leadership in theater:
Hana Ebbert and Gavin McGinnis
Directors Award for Most Improved: Meadow Monaco, Kelsey Merzabach, Emma Batz, Liam Burns, Lexie Gibbs and Jackson Veety
Directors Awards for Outstanding Students:
Creativity and Versatility: Yuvia Portugal
Professional and Preparedness: Heather Day and Logan Hujus
Dedication and Perseverance: Nolan Mann and Keira Everle
Willingness and Flexibility: Gianna Pecorella
Schools, like Otisville Elementary, hold kindness-themed sidewalk chalk days to make positive behavior visible and interactive while also reinforcing social-emotional learning! Students take the idea of the importance of kindness and write supportive messages in shared spaces for all to see! The activity further shapes a school’s culture and sense of community. 💚💚
Take a peek at Otisville''s gorgeously colorful “Kindness Chalk Walkway,” created yesterday, May 18. These third-grade students were among all K-5 students who wrote insightful messages --- many paired with creative artwork! Everyday words, messages and actions are definitely meaningful to others!
These wonderful messages reinforce the importance of positive behaviors in an engaging way. Students took abstract ideas like empathy, caring, encouragement, and inclusion and put them concrete actions by writing supportive messages on the school’s walkway. Activities like this create a wonderful a sense of student ownership and belonging because students collectively shape the atmosphere of the school in a way that so many can see, including their peers, faculty/staff and visitors!
Take a peek at Otisville''s gorgeously colorful “Kindness Chalk Walkway,” created yesterday, May 18. These third-grade students were among all K-5 students who wrote insightful messages --- many paired with creative artwork! Everyday words, messages and actions are definitely meaningful to others!
These wonderful messages reinforce the importance of positive behaviors in an engaging way. Students took abstract ideas like empathy, caring, encouragement, and inclusion and put them concrete actions by writing supportive messages on the school’s walkway. Activities like this create a wonderful a sense of student ownership and belonging because students collectively shape the atmosphere of the school in a way that so many can see, including their peers, faculty/staff and visitors!
