Community Update

I learned a new quote this week: “Art is how we decorate space, music is how we decorate time” (Jean-Michel Basquiat). The point was brought home at Tuesday’s Board of Education meeting in the contrast between a moment of silence – undecorated time – remembering those from the Farmingdale bus accident, followed by the most beautifully decorated time, the extraordinary musicianship of pianists Theodore Gaeta and Emily Young. Both are Seniors who achieved perfect scores on a Level 6 NYSSMA Solo and had been part of our Honors Piano Recital last Saturday alongside 13 other students of all ages celebrating this same accomplishment.

The Board and District administration also continued discussions about our facilities – how to deal with our aging physical plant and our growing student body – and how to be thoughtful stewards of the community’s assets by prioritizing the work ahead. The Board will resume that conversation later this month on Wednesday, October 18th.

Syosset High School offers 31 Advanced Placement courses–that in itself is an accomplishment that makes me so proud. But wait… there’s more! The College Board has awarded us a “Gold Distinction” on its AP School Honor Roll. Schools earn this recognition annually based on criteria that reflect a commitment to providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximize college readiness. Last year, 78% of our seniors took at least one AP exam, 70% scored a three or higher on at least one exam, and 46% took five or more exams. We are so grateful for this honor – and that we are able to offer such a breadth of opportunities to our students.

Taking advantage of a Sunday rain date, Syosset hosted Relay for Life to raise money for the American Cancer Society with an event at the high school track. The Relay movement is dedicated to helping communities find a cure for cancer and raise awareness. There were more than 250 participants – and the event raised more than $18,000! This rain date was truly all about bringing the sunshine.