Ward Melville High School celebrated the Class of 2025 during a commencement ceremony that honored community, resilience and the importance of meaningful action.

Board of Education President Susan E. Megroz Rosenzweig addressed both students and families with a message grounded in perspective and encouragement. She urged parents not to get caught up in counting the “lasts,” and instead to appreciate the full journey. To graduates, she offered this advice: “Do the hard work, take the big swings, and savor the unexpected things that come up along the way.”

Principal John Holownia reflected on what transforms a building into a home, telling the Class of 2025 that it was their presence and spirit that brought Ward Melville to life. “Carry forward the lessons you have learned from one another,” he said. “You have set goals for yourself and surpassed what you thought was possible.” Holownia shared that this graduating class will always hold a special place in his heart, as they welcomed him “home” during his first year as principal.

Salutatorian Alexander Song credited his elementary teacher, Mr. Prinzo, for a simple but lasting piece of advice: “Be proactive.” He encouraged classmates to open their eyes to others, to embrace people for who they are and to lead with empathy.

Valedictorian Oliver Wu reflected on the challenges his class faced growing up during the pandemic and in the age of social media. He urged his peers to turn awareness into action: “Even as the world is happening to you, you are happening to the world.” He reminded them that the path forward requires purpose, courage – and a little fun.

Congratulations to the Ward Melville Class of 2025.

Date Added: 6/30/2025

On May 30, Nassakeag Elementary School’s Pre-K Enrichment students proudly hosted a STEAM Day Celebration, inviting their families to share in the excitement and accomplishments of the program.

The celebration began with a joyful performance of their special song, “Big Ideas,” followed by hands-on activities that highlighted the students’ growth in science, technology, engineering, art, and math.

Children rotated through five engaging stations – chemical reactions, circuits, sink and float, bubbles, and sharpie tie-dyeing – each designed to spark creativity, critical thinking and curiosity.

The day was a vibrant celebration of learning, discovery, and fun for students, families and staff alike.

Date Added: 6/27/2025

Minnesauke Elementary hosted a bus driver appreciation event to thank the dedicated drivers who help keep the school community moving safely.

Organized by the Minnesauke PTA, the event featured breakfast, coffee and cold drinks for the drivers as a small token of thanks for their hard work throughout the year. The school community is deeply grateful for the drivers’ commitment to getting students to and from school safely every day.

Date Added: 6/26/2025

Students in Mrs. Peck’s first grade and Mrs. Gunning’s kindergarten classes at Setauket Elementary recently completed a hands-on learning unit about marine animal rehabilitation, centered around a rescued seal named Lychee.

After adopting Lychee through the Riverhead Foundation, the students took a virtual field trip to the foundation’s hospital to learn about the care and recovery of injured sea animals. Each student brought home a stuffed Lychee for an overnight visit and wrote about the experience in a shared journal.

To support Lychee’s rehabilitation, students completed acts of kindness at home and collected donations for the Riverhead Foundation. The unit concluded with a memorable visit to Tiana Beach, where families gathered to witness Lychee’s release back into the ocean.

Date Added: 6/26/2025

Eighth and ninth grade students at Gelinas and Murphy Junior High Schools marked an important milestone during their Moving Up Ceremonies on June 25. The events celebrated their transition to Ward Melville High School, where they will begin the next chapter of their academic journey. Congratulations to all of the future Patriots!  Click here to view more photos on Facebook.

Date Added: 6/26/2025