skip to main content

James H. Vernon School

Address: 880 Oyster Bay Road, East Norwich, NY 11732
Main Office: (516) 624-6562
Fax: (516) 624-6522
Principal: Ms. Anastasia Smith             
Asst. Principal: Mr. Thomas Mauro
Grades: 3 - 6

Photo of James H. Vernon School building
If your child is absent for any reason, parents must call the Attendance Line no later than 9:00 AM. This number may be called 24/7: (516) 624-6568

School Updates

Beginner Band Information

 

 

Matilda Jr. Information

Click the graphic below to access the additional information.

 

The Bulldog Chronicles -  School Newspaper

Click the graphic below to access the full newspaper.



School News

Nine Years Strong: Roosevelt School's Kindergarten Math Night Sparks Joy and Learning

Theodore Roosevelt students enjoying math night. thumbnail268146

On Nov. 5, Theodore Roosevelt School transformed into a hub of mathematical exploration and family fun during its annual Kindergarten Math Night. The beloved event, now in its ninth year, brought kindergartners and their caregivers together for an evening of hands-on activities that proved learning can be both educational and entertaining.

Coordinated by Roosevelt's math specialist, Ms. Michelle Squires, the event has become a cherished tradition that kicks off the school year with enthusiasm and engagement. This year's program welcomed families into a carefully designed evening that balanced structured learning with creative play.

The festivities began in the cafeteria, where young mathematicians decorated their own Expert Kindergarten Mathematician crowns adorned with numbers. These crowns became badges of honor that students wore proudly as they embarked on their mathematical journey through the school.

Teachers from various grade levels led the activities throughout the evening, giving kindergartners the valuable opportunity to meet more members of Roosevelt's staff and experience the welcoming community that extends beyond their own classrooms. To ensure all families could fully participate, a Spanish-speaking teaching assistant was on hand to provide translation services for Spanish-speaking families, reinforcing the school's commitment to inclusivity.

By inviting parents and caregivers into the classroom environment, the event offered families a meaningful window into their children's daily learning experiences. Parents gained insight into how math concepts are introduced and practiced at school, while also picking up practical strategies and activities they can use to support their children's mathematical development at home. This partnership between school and family creates a continuity of learning that extends far beyond the classroom walls.

Families were organized into five groups, rotating through different classrooms, each offering a unique math-focused game designed to develop problem-solving skills and mathematical thinking. The stations included kindergarten Yahtzee, a Lego building challenge, Craftivity, the Coverall Smash Game, and Race to Fill the Cup. Each activity was thoughtfully chosen to reinforce mathematical concepts while keeping students engaged and excited.

Throughout the evening, the sounds of learning filled the halls – including more than a few shouts of 6… 7! echoing from room to room, much to the amusement of parents familiar with the viral trend.

As the evening concluded, each student received a special math goodie bag to take home, extending the learning beyond the school walls and providing families with tools to continue the mathematical exploration together.

The success of Kindergarten Math Night reflects Roosevelt School's commitment to making mathematics accessible, enjoyable, and meaningful for its youngest learners. By combining education with celebration, the event reinforces the message that math isn't just about numbers – it's about curiosity, discovery, and problem-solving skills that will serve students throughout their educational journey.

Click here to view the Nine Years Strong: Roosevelt Schools Kindergarten Math Night Sparks Joy and Learning slideshow.

Date Added: 11/7/2025

Roosevelt and Vernon recognized as Common Sense Schools for Digital Citizenship Excellence

Common Sense banner. thumbnail268116

Theodore Roosevelt and James H. Vernon Elementary Schools have earned the prestigious distinction of being named Common Sense Schools, recognizing the schools’ exceptional commitment to teaching digital citizenship to their students.

The honor, awarded by Common Sense Education – part of the national nonprofit organization Common Sense Media – acknowledges schools that demonstrate outstanding efforts in preparing students to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.

This achievement was made possible through the vision and dedication of new library media specialist, Liz McGee, working in close collaboration with technology teachers Brian Agostini and Regina D'Orio. Their combined efforts have established Roosevelt and Vernon as leaders in digital citizenship education.

In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, students face both unprecedented opportunities and significant challenges. From cyberbullying and misinformation to concerns about media balance and social-emotional well-being, the ethical dimensions of technology use have become critical teachable moments.

We here at OBEN recognize that digital citizenship skills are no longer optional – they're essential for student success in the 21st century. The district has committed to equipping students with the knowledge and skills they need to become responsible digital learners, leaders, and citizens.

Roosevelt and Vernon join more than 80,000 schools across the country utilizing Common Sense Education's groundbreaking resources. These evidence-based materials help students develop the competencies necessary to use devices effectively for learning while navigating digital spaces safely.

Click here for more information about Common Sense Education and its resources.

 

Date Added: 11/4/2025

Ladybug Girl creators inspire Vernon students with stories and art

Vernon’s third and fourth graders enjoyed a special visit from author and-illustrator duo David Soman and Jacky Davis. thumbnail267982
Vernon’s third and fourth graders enjoyed a special visit from author and-illustrator duo David Soman and Jacky Davis. thumbnail267983
Vernon’s third and fourth graders enjoyed a special visit from author and-illustrator duo David Soman and Jacky Davis. thumbnail267984
Vernon’s third and fourth graders enjoyed a special visit from author and-illustrator duo David Soman and Jacky Davis. thumbnail267985

On Oct. 21, Vernon’s third and fourth graders enjoyed a special visit from author and-illustrator duo David Soman and Jacky Davis, the New York Times bestselling creators of the beloved Ladybug Girl series. 

For the past two decades, this dynamic team has brought countless stories to life, and our students were thrilled to hear their latest, “Elvis and Romeo,” plus a sneak peek at an upcoming book in the series! 

David wowed the crowd with a live drawing demonstration, showing how to convey emotion and expression through illustration. Meanwhile, Jacky brought the stories to life with animated storytelling, fun props and expressive voices that had everyone captivated. Students asked thoughtful questions and left feeling truly inspired. 

A huge thank-you to our generous PTA for making this unforgettable author visit possible!

 

Date Added: 10/23/2025

Oyster Bay-East Norwich celebrates completion of $29M capital improvement project

Collage of photos from ribbon cutting. thumbnail267935

The Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District marked a significant milestone on Friday, Oct.17, celebrating the completion of its ambitious 21st Century Capital Improvement Bond Project with a grand opening ceremony at James H. Vernon Elementary School.

The comprehensive $29 million initiative brought transformative upgrades to all three district campuses, with improvements that promise to enhance educational opportunities for students across the community for years to come.

The wide-ranging project touched every corner of the district. At Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School, a new PreK wing now provides dedicated space for the district's youngest learners. Oyster Bay High School received multiple new facilities, including a cutting-edge innovation lab and broadcasting studio, along with a modernized entrance façade and new turf field.

Vernon School saw perhaps the most extensive renovations, featuring a state-of-the-art music wing with two spacious orchestra and band rooms complemented by several smaller practice classrooms. The school also gained a new athletic center and a completely reimagined cafeteria, along with various smaller improvements including an updated playground.

In welcome news for taxpayers, the entire project came in approximately $2.5 million under budget – representing roughly 8% in savings from the initial projected cost.

The Vernon School celebration brought together district leadership and the wider community in the new athletic complex. Superintendent Francesco Ianni, Deputy Superintendent Maureen Raynor and Board of Education President Nancy Castrogiovanni addressed the packed room, reflecting on the project's significance for students and families.

Nassau County Legislator Samantha Goetz attended the event and presented the district with a special citation in recognition of the achievement.

The evening showcased the talents that will flourish in these new spaces. The cast of Vernon's upcoming production of Matilda energized the crowd with a spirited performance of Revolting Children, while student representative Ava Fishberger shared her classmates' enthusiasm for the enhanced facilities.

Following the formal presentations, Superintendent Ianni and President Castrogiovanni joined Vernon Principal Anastasia Smith in cutting the ceremonial ribbon, then led attendees on a comprehensive tour of the renovated facilities.

In a creative display of the district's enhanced capabilities, guests entering the newly renovated cafeteria witnessed a live broadcast by Bay News Now, Oyster Bay High School's student news team. With reporters stationed in the athletic complex and music wing, anchors in the cafeteria, and a full technical crew managing the production, the students demonstrated professional-level broadcast journalism. The broadcast streamed live on Bay News Now's YouTube channel, showcasing the real-world applications of the district's new media facilities.

The evening concluded in the new music wing, where attendees were treated to moving performances by the Vernon band and orchestra under the direction of the school's music faculty – a fitting finale that brought the new music facilities to life.

The successful completion of the 21st Century Capital Improvement Bond Project represents a significant investment in the future of Oyster Bay-East Norwich students. From early childhood education spaces to advanced technology labs and professional-grade performance facilities, these improvements create an environment where students can explore their interests, develop their talents and prepare for future success.

As the district community gathered to celebrate this achievement, the excitement was evident throughout the evening – not just for the impressive new buildings and equipment, but for the expanded opportunities they represent for every student who walks through the doors.

Click here to view the Oyster Bay-East Norwich celebrates completion of $29M capital improvement project slideshow.

Date Added: 10/20/2025

Join us for the James H. Vernon Elementary School Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Vernon Ribbon Cutting Ceremony graphic. thumbnail267864

The Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District invites the community to celebrate a historic milestone as we officially dedicate the newly renovated James H. Vernon Elementary School. This ribbon cutting ceremony marks the successful completion of the district's 2021 community-supported bond initiative.

Event Highlights:

The evening will feature guided tours of Vernon's stunning new facilities, including:

* The state-of-the-art music wing
* Expanded cafeteria
* Modern athletic complex

As a special preview, students will present a live sneak peek performance of Vernon's upcoming musical production of Matilda.

How to Watch:

Can't attend in person? Join us via livestream! Bay News Now, Oyster Bay High School's award-winning news broadcast, will provide complete coverage beginning at 5:40 PM on their YouTube channel.

Watch Live: Click here to watch.

Be sure to subscribe to Bay News Now on YouTube at @BayNewsNow for this event and future district coverage.

A Community Achievement:

This renovation represents the culmination of our community's investment in educational excellence. Thanks to the support of district voters in 2021, Vernon Elementary now features enhanced learning spaces that will serve students for generations to come.

We look forward to celebrating this momentous occasion with you!

Date Added: 10/14/2025

Virtual Backpack

No backpack items are currently available.