Students from Islip High School’s cosmetology program recently embarked on an enriching field trip to the New York Institute of Beauty, where they had an opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of esthetics. The visit was highly interactive, with students actively participating in demonstrations and hands-on practice, including giving and receiving facials under the guidance of professional estheticians. This real-world experience not only allowed them to refine their skills, but also provided valuable insights into potential career paths within the beauty industry. Additionally, students were given an overview of various trade college options and professional certifications available, opening their eyes to the diverse opportunities for further education and advancement in their chosen field.

“The trip proved to be an inspiring and informative experience, sparking new aspirations and solidifying my students’ commitment to their future careers in cosmetology,” teacher Lorraine Knoblauch said.

Date Added: 11/5/2024

Islip High School's Buccaneer University students hosted the annual Club Fair for freshmen on Oct. 9.Buccaneer University adviser Nicole Hall and Assistant Principal Meghan Stern coordinated with the organization’s Peer Ambassadors to offer freshmen an interactive experience. Islip High School faculty advisers and club officers piqued student interest in the multitude of extracurricular offerings at the high school by providing demonstrations and answering questions.

“It is our goal that every ninth grader participates in at least one sport, art or music group, school-based community service organization or club,” Principal Dr. Lara Gonzalez said. “This year’s Club Fair was a thoughtful way to introduce students to some of their options with the support of our upperclassmen who helped steer freshmen in a positive direction.”

Date Added: 10/17/2024

Islip’s Board of Education congratulated a dozen dedicated faculty members on their recent tenure appointments during the Board’s Sept. 25 business meeting. Recognized for this important career achievement were Islip School District Director of Technology, Innovation and Information Systems Chad Walerstein; Islip Middle School teachers Joseph Sabbatino and Alison Sweet; Commack Road Elementary School teachers Jillian Bohnaker, Christine LeMaire, Theresa Oberer, Stephanie Schumacher and Nicole Scicutella; and Wing Elementary School teachers Danielle McDonald and Maria Scammell. Wing Elementary School teacher Chelsea Panzica and Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School teacher Ashley Slane also recently received tenure but will be recognized at a future Board meeting.

“The achievement of tenure is an important milestone in every young teacher’s career,” Acting Superintendent of Schools Kathleen O’Callaghan said. “We are proud of these remarkable educators and the hard work, effort and dedication to their students they have demonstrated.”

Date Added: 10/2/2024

The New York State Public High School Athletic Association has designated Islip High School as a Scholar-Athlete School of Excellence winner for the 2023-2024 school year. School of Excellence status requires that 75% of varsity teams receive the association’s Scholar-Athlete team award. To qualify for the Scholar-Athlete award, 75% of a team’s players must have a grade-point average for the season equal to or greater than 90%. This year, 226 New York State schools were given the School of Excellence designation.

Date Added: 10/2/2024

On a sunny Sept. 14, the school community of Islip celebrated homecoming pride all day long, beginning with a joyful parade from the Oconee East Diner to Islip High School. First up were the Fire Department, Board of Education members, and district and school administrators as well as the high school’s marching band, cheerleaders and kickline. Islip Middle School, Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School, Commack Road Elementary School and Wing Elementary School were all enthusiastically represented with marchers bearing banners, while the high school’s students offered grade-level floats including the seniors’ winning “Under the Sea-niors” octopus creation. Following the parade, students and the community walked to the high school’s soccer field for the annual carnival, which featured games, inflatable slides and a memorable dunk tank.

The varsity football team came out pumped and ready to show off their skills and Islip pride, bursting through the banner held by the cheerleaders and champing at the bit to start their Suffolk III opener against Kings Park. The Bucs got on the board quickly, thanks to Jake DeGennaro returning a punt for a 62-yard touchdown, and walked off the field with a 34-20 victory. In other highlights, Christian Hall scored on a 55-yard blocked field goal return, and rushed for 75 yards and a TD. Quarterback Brady Nash passed for 190 yards, going 12-for-16, and rushed for 60 yards and a TD. Dylan Smith racked up three sacks and four catches for 110 yards, while Robbie Rais and Caden Tierney added two sacks apiece.

At the beginning of halftime, the school announced Homecoming King Jason Cuttler and Homecoming Queen Brianna Gabbidon. Shalaya Coke, Sophia Martinez, Nicole Matute, Brady Nash, John Oggeri, Josiah Patterson, Dylan Ruland and Tatyana Wilson rounded out this year’s homecoming court.

“I look forward to homecoming every year,” student union adviser Kristen D’Attoma said. “The weather was perfect and everyone had a great time marching in the parade. The carnival was fun for everyone, but I think the crowd favorite was getting to dunk their teachers and administrators in the dunk tank.”

Date Added: 9/19/2024