Students from Commack Road Elementary School (CRES) showcased their basketball skills on a bigger stage earlier this month, competing in the annual Town of Islip Sharpshooter contest on March 7, 2026, at East Islip High School.

The Sharpshooter contest challenges participants to score as many points as possible within one minute, testing both accuracy and composure under pressure. Top-performing fourth- and fifth-grade students from each school advance to the final round of competition.

CRES was well represented, with four students earning the opportunity to compete at the town level. In fourth grade, Jayden Albanese and Isabella Russo led the way as school champions, while Christian Cruz and Danna Amaya earned second-place finishes. In fifth grade, Michael Macaluso and Jessie Freeburg captured top honors, with Emma Orlick and Milan Matute finishing as runners-up.

Jayden Albanese, Isabella Russo, Jessie Freeburg, and Milan Matute advanced to represent CRES in the Town of Islip competition, where they competed against top students from across the district. Highlighting the group’s performance, Isabella Russo secured a third-place finish overall in the fourth-grade girls division.

School officials praised the students for their effort and sportsmanship.

The event not only celebrated basketball skills but also reinforced teamwork, perseverance, and school pride among the young athletes.