Students and staff at James H. Vernon School embraced the spirit of kindness and inclusivity on Friday, Feb. 14, as they celebrated P.S. I Love You Day. The school community came together in a powerful display of support for mental health awareness, emphasizing the importance of spreading love and positivity.

As students and teachers arrived at school, they were met with an uplifting scene. Student ambassadors greeted them with cheers, positive affirmations, bubbles, and lively music, setting the tone for a day filled with encouragement and connection. The atmosphere was one of joy and unity, reinforcing the message that everyone deserves to feel valued and supported.

P.S. I Love You Day, a registered non-profit organization in New York State, is dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. Observed annually on the second Friday of February, the initiative encourages people to wear purple in a show of solidarity and to create a community where individuals feel welcomed, loved, and appreciated. The movement aims to instill hope in those affected by mental illness while fostering a culture of compassion and understanding.

James H. Vernon School's participation in P.S. I Love You Day underscores its commitment to social-emotional learning and student well-being. By engaging in activities that promote kindness and support, students learn the importance of empathy and the impact of small gestures in making a difference.

Click here to view the James H. Vernon School Spreads Kindness on P.S. I Love You Day slideshow.

Date Added: 2/18/2025

James H. Vernon School welcomed a special guest on Feb. 14 as New York State Senator Jack Martins, who represents the 7th district, visited the school to participate in a heartwarming community project.

Gathering in the gymnasium, members of The Leaders’ Club, Bulldog Buddies, and Ms. Houser’s ELA class greeted Senator Martins and presented him with handmade valentines. The students created these heartfelt cards for the members of The Life Enrichment Center in Oyster Bay, a local community center for senior citizens.

Senator Martins personally collected the valentines and delivered them to the seniors, spreading messages of kindness and joy on behalf of the students. The visit highlighted Vernon School’s commitment to community service and the power of small gestures in making a meaningful impact.

Date Added: 2/18/2025

On Feb. 3, students at James H. Vernon School had the special opportunity to meet local author Maria Wen Adcock, who shared insights about Chinese New Year and her book, “It’s Chinese New Year, Curious George.”

Adcock, a Huntington resident, librarian, and mother, captivated students with outtakes from her book while teaching them about the significance of Chinese New Year. She explained that the celebration lasts for 15 days and marks the transition into spring. While many cultures observe the Lunar New Year, her book specifically highlights the traditions and customs of the Chinese celebration.

During the presentation, students engaged with Adcock’s storytelling and eagerly participated in a discussion about the holiday’s cultural importance. They asked thoughtful questions, demonstrating curiosity and enthusiasm for learning about different traditions.

The visit not only brought literature to life but also deepened students' understanding of cultural celebrations around the world. It was a memorable and educational experience that left a lasting impression on the young learners at James H. Vernon School.

Date Added: 2/10/2025

On Jan. 31, James H. Vernon School’s third grade students transformed their classrooms into a dynamic Biography Wax Museum, captivating family and friends with living history exhibits. The event showcased the culmination of weeks of dedicated learning about narrative nonfiction and biographies.

In preparation for the highly anticipated event, students were challenged to select a famous individual to study, spanning categories such as historical figures, athletes, musicians and performers. They delved into the lives of their chosen subjects, gathering information through comprehensive research and completing graphic organizers to structure their findings.

The Wax Museum featured four themed classrooms: one dedicated to historical figures, two highlighting sports icons and another celebrating performers. Students brought their subjects to life by dressing in character and standing as ‘wax figures.’ When visitors pressed a button placed in front of each student, the ‘wax figure’ would animate, delivering a brief, engaging biography that captured key facts and fascinating details about their life and achievements.

Adding to the visual appeal, students created mobiles that hung overhead, displaying photos and additional information about their characters. These creative displays complemented their presentations, offering visitors an immersive and educational experience.

The event was well-attended by family and friends, who marveled at the students’ hard work, creativity and enthusiasm. The Biography Wax Museum not only highlighted the students' academic growth but also celebrated their ability to bring history, sports and the arts to life through storytelling and performance.

Click here to view the James H. Vernon School Third Graders Turn Classrooms into a Living Biography Museum slideshow.

Date Added: 2/4/2025

The Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District proudly recognizes the outstanding accomplishments of its student musicians, who recently performed at the All-County Music Festival held at Long Island University's Tilles Center in Brookville. These talented students represented their schools in prestigious ensembles, including band, orchestra, and chorus, showcasing their dedication and musical skills.

The district’s All-County honorees include:

• Xinyuan Li (Grade 5) – Violin
• Claire Monahan (Grade 6) – Violin
• Mattheos Giorgou (Grade 6) – Double Bass
• Lucia Cochran (Grade 6) – Alto Sax
• Sabrina Rella (Grade 6) – Alto Sax
• Julianna Roubian (Grade 5) – Trombone
• June Hux (Grade 5) – Trombone
• Annalee Campiglia (Grade 5) – Children's Voice
• Victoria Peltzer (Grade 5) – Children's Voice
• Leah Ferrara (Grade 5) – Children's Voice
• Charlynn Biel (Grade 6) – Vocal Alto
• Emily Morea (Grade 6) – Vocal Soprano
• Maalika Mehta (Grade 10) – French Horn
• Lila Kavanagh (Grade 9) – French Horn
• Abigail Rudnet (Grade 9) – French Horn
• Landon Baugh (Grade 12) – Trombone
• Nicole Walsh (Grade 12) – Vocal Soprano
• Mosie Bradley (Grade 11) – Vocal Alto
• Emma Hampton (Grade 10) – Vocal Soprano
• James Ortiz Zavala (Grade 10) – Vocal Bass
• Ava Cekovic (Grade 7) – Vocal Soprano
• Nicholas Paleos (Grade 8) – Violin
• Kopacz Joseph (Grade 7) – Trumpet
• Alexander Karalis (Grade 7) – Tuba/Sousaphone

These students spent countless hours rehearsing to perfect their performances, with guidance from their dedicated music teachers. Their hard work and commitment culminated in an unforgettable experience at the Tilles Center, where they performed alongside talented peers from across Nassau County.

"We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and their unforgettable performances, and we thank their music teachers for helping to prepare them for this prestigious opportunity!" said Erica Giglio Pac, Director of Fine, Performing and Media Arts.

This event highlights the exceptional music education and talent fostered within the Oyster Bay-East Norwich CSD. Congratulations to these young musicians for their remarkable achievements!

Date Added: 1/23/2025