The Islip School District’s Inventing Self program continues to thrive, evolving each year with an ever-expanding roster of distinguished guest speakers who volunteer their time to work with EXCEL students. Since its inception, the program has consistently grown, offering students dynamic, hands-on workshops that blend interactive experiences with meaningful conversations. Each session aligns with the program’s 10 core principles, equipping students with the tools to connect with themselves and the world around them in pursuit of happiness and personal growth.

A hallmark of the program, led by EXCEL Program Coordinator Julia Johnson, is its ability to foster lasting connections, with many speakers returning year after year – even from out of state – for over 16 years. At the same time, new voices continually join the Inventing Self Speaker Series, adding fresh perspectives and insights. Among this year’s notable additions was Dr. Michael Dagro, owner of True Potential Physical Therapy in Bayport, who shared invaluable lessons with students. His workshop explored the true meaning of success, the impact of comparison on joy and the importance of embracing failure as a catalyst for growth.

“By introducing new perspectives annually, the Inventing Self program ensures that students engage with diverse ideas and experiences, fostering a supportive environment where they can flourish both personally and academically,” Johnson said. “The culture and community surrounding this unique program continue to grow organically and authentically – a journey that I am honored to witness and nurture.”

Date Added: 4/7/2025

Islip Middle School held its annual World Language Immersion Day on Feb. 28, inviting members of Islip High School’s World Language Honor Society to showcase their language skills and promote global citizenship through various activities with seventh grade language learners. The high school students created stations to encourage use of the target language with each visiting middle school group, speaking only Spanish or Italian for the entire event. This immersive experience provided the younger students with a chance to practice vocabulary words and hear the language being spoken and modeled.

“Immersion Day fortifies a connection between those who will soon be leaving our world language program for college and beyond, with the program’s future,” World Language Honor Society adviser Megan Schierhorst said.  

Date Added: 4/3/2025

The Islip School District held its annual Multicultural Night on March 4, celebrating the school community’s 20 different languages and numerous vibrant cultures through performances and displays.

The evening began with an exciting performance showcase in the Islip High School auditorium by multicultural clubs and the student population. The audience of over 200 attendees then moved to the school cafeteria to explore cuisine and displays, led by high school students. Family and consumer science classes cooked and served food, the functional academics students who operate the Bucs Brew beverage cart sold coffee, and cosmetology students offered face painting and henna. Three local eateries – Bubba’s Burrito Bar, Pizza Corner and The Pizzeria of Islip – also donated food for the event.

“Our students have been learning about different holidays and cultures through our multicultural clubs,” said Rabia Hirji, Islip’s administrator for ENL and world languages. “They were excited to show the displays they had created and eager to share what they’ve learned with the community. We are proud to highlight the diversity in our district.”

Date Added: 3/11/2025