Islip High School and Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School students recently collaborated on a horror-themed but heartwarming project. Sherwood students in Audrey Cella’s class created unique monster dolls with guidance and instruction from art teacher Melissa Trocchio-Cohen. The prototypes were then passed on to family and consumer science teacher Ali Catalano at the high school, whose students brought the dolls to life by measuring, cutting, stuffing and sewing each and every part of the dolls.

With the support of Fine and Performing Arts Director Michael Hershkowitz and K-12 Administrator for English Language Arts, Family and Consumer Sciences, and Cosmetology Barbara Wagner, high school students then visited Sherwood to deliver the stuffed dolls, speak about the process and answer questions that the younger students had prepared in anticipation of their arrival.

“Sherwood looks forward to having Ms. Catalano and her students again next year,” Principal Briana James said.

Date Added: 4/9/2025

The Zuzu African Acrobats recently came to Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School for a cultural arts assembly, sponsored by the school’s PTA. Students learned about the performers’ country of Tanzania, and even learned to speak a little Swahili. Traditional music, dance, and comedy were performed, providing an interactive experience that showcased African culture.

“The Zuzu African Acrobats not only entertained but also educated,” Principal Briana James said. “They introduced us to Tanzanian cultural traditions, emphasizing the importance of artistry, strength, skill, teamwork and joy. Their performance was jaw-dropping and inspiring.”

Date Added: 4/9/2025

Fourth- and fifth-grade students from Commack Road Elementary School and Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School recently competed in the 39th annual Town of Islip Sharp Shooter Basketball Contest. This program, sponsored by the Islip Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs, challenges local students to score as many baskets as possible in one minute. Schoolwide winners moved on to the townwide Sharp Shooter competition, held on March 1 at East Islip High School in front of numerous local dignitaries. A total of 35 elementary schools participated in the event.

Commack Road’s in-school winners, guided by physical education teachers Jason Orlick and Carrie Rittberg, were fourth graders Michael Macaluso and Emma Orlick and fifth graders Ellie Spallina and Ja’mere White-Grey, while the second-place finishers were Milan Matute, Colin Moon, Emma Myles-McAnally and Reese Stapleton. Macaluso, Spallina and Stapleton went on to compete in the townwide event.

“Michael, Ellie, and Reese did a wonderful job representing our school,” Rittberg said. “We’re so proud of our athletes, and all of their hard work and their dedication.”

Sherwood’s in-school winners, guided by physical education teacher Jeff Atlas, were fourth graders Tyler Deutsch and Skylar Winter and fifth graders Brady Dromerhauser and Sophia Zvonik. All four participated in the townwide event, with Zvonik winning first overall in the fifth grade girls division and Deutsch taking second place in the boys fourth grade division.  

“Sophia and Tyler made Sherwood proud, congratulations to them both,” Atlas 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

The second grade at Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School kicked off their geography unit with a fun and exciting project called Hearts Around the USA. The goal was to collect as many Valentine’s Day cards as possible, with the hope of receiving cards from all 50 states. The response was overwhelming, with the school receiving letters from a total of 36 states. The incredible number of cards came not only from other classrooms across the country, but also from friends and family members.

Date Added: 2/27/2025