Minisink Valley High School

Kudos to High School students Zoe Schultz, Morgan Varian, Zuri Poinsette, Erin Huggins-Williams (and her mom Cindy), Gia Gangi, Baylie Touw and Cheyann Kumar for their volunteer assistance at last Saturday’s “Hike for Hope,” at Bear Mountain State Park, an event organized by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. They ran the arts and crafts tables and healing activities to over 500 participants. We always love it when our students give back and help others! THANK YOU and WELL-DONE!

Please join us in wishing the Varsity Boys Golf Team much success as it heads to the Division 2 championship match today, April 30! The team is on a current FOUR match win streak and is excited to compete! "The guys are having a lot of fun and improving on their game every day,” said Coach Dave Benedetto. “We have a great group of players working very well together." He’s also proud to share these player highlights: •Chris Rickard is off to another great season averaging 3 over par He has qualified for States the past two seasons and he is looking to make another run at a state title in June. •Ben Danielson, John Falzon, and Matt Murtaugh are all on track to qualify for the OCIAA championship tournament held on May 12.

For months, members of the High School’s Film Society had been asking advisor Jonathan Bond to arrange for a field trip for the group to see a Minecraft movie, and it finally happened! Students had a blast and appreciated the trip to the theater, as evidenced by Gavin McGinnis’ review of the trip and movie: “First We Mine, Then We Craft”: Students flock to see ‘A Minecraft Movie’ with the MVHS Film Society. “As a child, I yearned for the mines.” From the moment Jack Black uttered those immortal words, the sense of joy and excitement in the Flagship Cinemas in Matamoras, PA, was palpable. For months, the MVHS Film Society had been begging their advisor, English teacher Mr. Jon Bond, to take them to see A Minecraft Movie, a film that permeated itself into the fabric of the public consciousness long before it even opened. Many people already had favorite lines from the movie prior to stepping foot in a theatre, such as “Flint and Steel”; “I…am Steve”; and, of course, the ubiquitous “Chicken Jockey!” “Although reasonably skeptical about the endeavour, Mr. Bond eventually relented, teaming up with the school’s Sci-Fi class and Gamer’s Guild to create the ultimate field trip to the cinemas, with the one caveat that no one was allowed to throw popcorn at the screen. The students happily agreed, and off they went for the adventure of a lifetime. Meeting up in the gym lobby…one could feel the enthusiasm being exuded from the students, who were happily quoting lines from the movie and were decked out in their best Minecraft regalia. Some even wore outfits that matched those of the characters in the movie, calling to mind the Barbenheimer craze of 2023. “Indeed, the reaction to this movie has been something akin to a cross between the fanatic enthusiasm for that critically acclaimed double feature from two years ago, and the participatory chaos of a Rocky Horror Picture Show screening. …the trip was no exception. From the moment the students settled into their seats with their popcorn and soft drinks, it was clear that this was not going to be a normal movie screening. Audience members laughed with each other, clapped for their favorite lines, and even quoted some of the more “memeable” moments from the movie as they occurred in real time. “As can be expected, the moment that the “chicken jockey,” a small baby zombie riding on a chicken--who has recently taken over the internet--appeared on screen, the crowd went wild, chanting Jack Black’s now famous exclamation about the character with him, clapping and whooping. However, unlike more sensational stories about the wild events occurring in theatres during this scene, the reaction was polite and civil, and died down so that everyone could hear the next line of the film. “After the showing was over, reviews for the film itself were mixed. Some found the dialogue to be corny and forced, while others cringed and groaned openly at the bizarre musical interludes crammed into the story. “However, at the end of the day, everyone could agree on the fact that there really isn’t anything else like A Minecraft Movie, and whether that is for better or worse, it certainly made for a fun and interactive film experience that is going to be hard to forget. “After the trip, Junior Hana Ebbert prepared a wonderful presentation on the history of Minecraft and the movie it inspired. Not one to pass up an opportunity, Mr. Bond will use this film as a comparison point in his discussion of the film The Fantastic Mr. Fox, directed by Wes Anderson, in his film studies class. What a day!”

What do fireworks, cake and a winter tablecloth mean? There’s only one correct answer: The 2025 edition of Vale, the high school yearbook, is complete and off for printing! Per yearbook tradition, on Thursday night before the deadline seniors and editors meet in the evening to run the index. But because of last Thursday’s networking issues at the High School, staff quickly pivoted and used one of the Middle School technology rooms for this important step in the process. This past Friday, Kool and the Gang’s “Celebration” blasted from Room 126 as the final pages were submitted. Editor-in-chief Aislyn Struble completed the final submission and then read her theme opening to “Out Loud!” to her yearbook staff peers! Did you know that staff operates as a high school art elective class and is taught by Kat Hoolan and copy advised by Laura Lalor. But, why the winter tablecloth? That’s because the staff only has one for deadline celebrations, and it’s become part of the staff traditions no matter the season. Yearbooks will arrive in early June!

The Varsity Flag Football team remains UNDEFEATED after beating Monroe-Woodbury 6-0! (The game was also a Section IX finals rematch from last year!) Coach Michael Tepper is proud to share these highlights: •Vanessa Tepper: Two rushing touchdowns and an interception •Ava Revella: 55 yards rushing, 95 yards receiving and nine flag pulls •Avery Wingen: Eight flag pulls and an interception Home games are today, April 28, and Wednesday, April 30! Everyone is welcome!

Students who are members of the High School’s “Ministock” Club, along with interested students enrolled the High School’s various music ensembles, had the unique opportunity to attend a collegiate-level interview featuring Dr. Timothy Yip, assistant professor for music business, at SUNY Potsdam’s Crane School of Music; and Matt Christy, the high school’s band director, “Ministock” Club advisor and SUNY Potsdam Crane School of Music alumnus, this past April 23. Their topic of discussion was “Marketing in Business.” Dr. Yip and Mr. Christy discussed how the skills learned in the college’s music business program—particularly in marketing—play a role in shaping professional careers in the field. "An opportunity like this is important to students because it bridges the gap between their current educational experiences and real-world applications in higher education and professional careers," said Mr. Christy. "By hearing directly from a college professor, and a working professional who once stood in their shoes, students gain valuable insight into how academic programs, especially ones like Music Business, translate into meaningful and successful career paths. It's an experience that can plant the seeds for future ambition, broaden perspectives, and motivate students to think more intentionally about their own educational and career journeys."

What a game! The Varsity Unified Basketball team played their home opener against Monroe-Woodbury yesterday, April 24, and what a matchup it was! "We played with heart, worked as a team, and kept it close right to the end, falling short by just one point," said Varsity Coach Theresa Uhelsky. "Beyond the game, we made new friends, had a ton of fun, and were treated to an awesome halftime show thanks to some of our Minisink Valley baseball players and a game of musical chairs!" The team's next game is Tuesday, April 29, at home in the High School gym, and everyone is invited to attend and cheer the team on!

PIE IN THE FACE! High School students donated their loose change or bills during their recent lunch periods for a good cause: A FACULTY/STAFF PIE IN THE FACE opportunity to benefit the Class of 2025! Fifteen teachers and staff volunteered and agreed they would allow themselves to be “pied” if enough money was dropped into buckets with their name/face on it. Students obliged, emptying their pockets, and the three with the most amount of money in their buckets were: Special Education Math teacher Ashley Rielly, Physical Education teacher Michael Raccioppi and History teacher Rob Hindley! Mr. Raccioppi’s bucket raised the most money, giving him THE HONOR AND DISTINCTION of being pied with a very special cherry pie! THANK YOU to Ms. Rielly, Mr. Raccioppi and Mr. Hindley for being such good sports and to everyone who donated their loose change to the cause! See more photos on the district's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MinisinkValleyCSD

No matter if you’re a young student or older student, it’s a fact: Holding chicks and goats will definitely make you smile! Take a look at the smiles on the faces Kimberly Jordan’s Freshman Biology students! Because of the kindness of Minisink Valley parent Erin O’Neill, Mrs. Jordan’s classroom was a “foster” home to these baby chicks. Students were amazed by the 20-day journey of watching life develop and were overjoyed to watch the eggs hatch! Plus: Mrs. O’Neill brought an adorable one-month-old baby goat for a visit! Both the chicks and goat were wonderful examples to support a lesson about reproduction. What a wonderful way to learn about the wonder of life! Thank you, Mrs. O’Neill, we appreciate your kindness! See more photos on the districts' Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MinisinkValleyCSD/

TODAY'S FEEL GOOD MOMENT! The Varsity Unified Basketball team kicked off their spring season with an away game at North Rockland High School yesterday, April 23. Take a look! "For many, it was their first-ever varsity bus ride—an experience full of laughter, bonding, and unforgettable memories," Varsity Coach Theresa Uhelsky said. "North Rockland welcomed us with open arms, and not only did we sharpen our basketball skills, we also made some great new friends along the way." Halftime turned into a celebration as both teams came together for an epic dance party to the classic song “YMCA!” "Here’s to a season full of teamwork, fun, and unity," Coach Uhelsky added, "both on and off the court!"

The Varsity softball team is victorious over Port Jervis in the team’s recent 8-7 win! The game was tied at seven in the top of the eighth when Hannah Ringus hit a sacrifice fly, scoring one run! Coach Bruce Guyette is proud to share these highlights: •The team jumped out to the lead in the top of the first inning after Hannah Ringus singled, scoring one run, and Ryin Perico homered to left field, scoring two runs. •A home run to left field by Hannah Connoly gave the team the lead, 6-3, in the top of the fourth. •Hannah Ringus singled up the middle, which helped the team tie the game at seven in the top of the seventh. •Emily Smith earned the win, giving up 12 hits and seven runs over eight innings, striking out six and walking one. •The team collected 12 hits in the game. Hannah Connoly, Keira Filip, Hannah Ringus, Natalie Rogers, and Ryin Perico each collected two hits for Minisink Valley Varsity Warriors. Hannah Connoly went 2-for-4 at the plate and led the team with three runs batted in. Keira Filip stole three bases. •The team ran wild on the base paths, collecting four stolen bases for the game.

Guest Chef Chris Fusco from Whitsons Culinary Group introduced the Yard Bird Chicken sandwich to the high school community today, April 21….and to put it mildly….it was a huge, huge tasty hit! Take a look! Ask your student about today's special lunch option! The sandwich is a crispy whole-muscle chicken breast served on a whole grain bun with a special sauce, pickle chips and seasoned fries. Students repeatedly told us the sauce tastes just like what’s offered at Chick-fil-A (If you know, you know!) and lunch was great!

BRAVO! Plays are meant to be seen and experienced and there’s many times when students assume roles of characters and read the play out loud! Take a look at Jenn Thibodeau’s and Catina Brooks’ High School English 10 students, who recently read Lorraine Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun” out loud in class. This play that explores the struggles of the Younger family, an African-American family in Chicago, as they navigate financial hardship, racial prejudice, and the pursuit of the American Dream after the death of the patriarch, “Big Walter.” The play examines their conflicting dreams and aspirations, and the impact of their choices on their family's future. "A Raisin in the Sun" is often read in English classes to explore themes of race, class, family, and the "American Dream." By studying this play, students can further develop critical thinking skills, analyze complex characters, and examine how social and historical contexts shape individual lives. “This is a powerful play that relates to kids and the financial struggles that many families can face and realizing what is really important in life,” said Ms. Brooks. “The kids enjoyed the play and reading the characters of the excitable and frustrated Walter, the powerful matriarch Mama, the intellectual Beneatha, and other memorable characters. Having them actively engaged with the characters keeps them focused and leads to understanding motivation and having deeper comprehension. It’s a fun and memorable experience.” The play debuted on Broadway in 1959. The New York Drama Critics' Circle named it 1959’s best play, and in recent years publications such as The Independent[t] and Time Out have listed it among the best plays ever written.

Reminder: The 2025-26 student calendar has been available for everyone's use!

Varsity Wrestling Head Coach Kevin Gallagher is proud to share that sophomore Wyatt Boice earned sixth-place honors at the recent NHSCA High School National Wrestling Tournament at Virginia Beach! “Wyatt was in a loaded weight class with over 120 wrestlers in his weight class,” Coach Gallagher said. “He wrestled great and won his first four matches before losing a heartbreaking 6-5 match in the semi-finals. Wyatt proved again he is one of the best wrestlers in his age group in the country! Coming off his third-place finish in New York State, Wyatt continues to work hard and get better every day. He was also a freshman All-American last year and a Middle School All American as an eighth- grader." Kudos also go to sophomores Mason Murphy (0-2), Colin Matone (3-2) and Joe Uhrig (2-2) for their tourney performances! “All three of the guys wrestled tough but ran into some very tough competition” added Coach Gallagher. “Colin looked good and won three matches and Joe Uhrig won two with both of his losses coming to the third- place and the fourth-place wrestlers.”

The Varsity Flag Football's season record improves to 5-0 after a massive 25-0 win over Warwick! Coach Michael Tepper is proud to share these highlights: --- Vanessa Tepper: 4 touchdown passes --- Ava Semco: 2 receiving touchdowns --- Ariana Junca:j 1 receiving touchdown and an extra point. --- Kate O’Neill: 1 receiving touchdown

SWAG ALERT! Senior families: Three weeks from today, on Thursday, May 1, the High School will hold its annual DECISION DAY festivities! Whether your student is moving onto college, a career or the military, be sure he/she has that special attire ready to visually share the great news! It's a wonderful photo op day that seniors and the high school's faculty and staff always look forward to having!

Congratulations to Senior Varsity Lacrosse Goalie Isabella Odland, who recorded her 200th career save against Pine Bush on April 3! Starting in goal for the last three seasons, Isabella has been a pillar on a team that has won three of the last four Section IX titles, and was one goal away from defeating eventual State Semi-finalist Horace Greeley last season. She was "lights-out" late in the recent Pine Bush game, shutting down a Pine Bush run with some very impressive one-on-one saves. She has committed to Division I Wagner College this fall!

The High School Science Speakers Series continued today, April 7, where speakers who excelled in science, graduated college, and transitioned to the workforce come in and speak to students who are enrolled in the college level science classes. Thank you to Class of 2019 alumnus Emily Abruzzee, a mechanical engineer for Core Tech in Saratoga Springs, for being today’s speaker! She spoke to students about the mechanical engineering field and offered guidance as students continue to prepare and finalize their college applications. Ms. Abruzzee earned her bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Union College. While at Union, she was a member of various clubs, including Society of Women Engineers and Engineers for a Sustainable World as well as the women’s club ice hockey team. She also was involved with research work at Union, interned at GlobalFoundries, completed a term of study in Ireland as well as a mini-term in New Zealand! She joined Core Tech in September 2023 as a proposal support engineer and later transitioned her role in the company to a mechanical engineer. In her free time, she’s working with a friend to convert a 1999 Saab to an electric vehicle, hoping to productize and provide this environmentally friendly service to other older vehicles in need of a second life! More speakers are planned for this Science Speakers Series. Please join us in thanking Ms. Abruzzee for taking the time to meet with students and show and talk to them about the wonderful possibilities that can become a reality with hard work and determination.

The Girls Lacrosse Program is off to a fabulous start! Varsity Assistant Rory Boice reports that the Varsity and Junior Varsity teams’ recent games against Pine Bush ended with the Varsity team beating Pine Bush in a 17-10 final! The team created an offensive onslaught that Pine Bush had difficulty containing! “The team left it all on the field,” Varsity Head Coach Jessica Gurrieri said. “It was a great day!” Additionally, the Junior Varsity team ran away in their Pine Bush game, besting that Junior Varsity team which beat them the last two consecutive in a 20-2 final. Junior Varsity Coach Samantha Woodward’s squad was unselfish with the ball offensively and stingy on defense, as they displayed their skills. To top things off, the Modified team beat Warwick in an 8-7 final! “We demonstrated excellent ball movement, control, teamwork and communication,” added Modified Coach Rachael Moran.