Albert G. Prodell Middle School students kicked off a successful school year by attending a Literacy Pep Rally with bestselling Author Kwame Alexander on Sept. 17.

The eighth graders joined students from across the country in the virtual event by the author of dozens of books who noted that to become an accomplished writer, he became a devoted reader.

Alexander read from his latest book, “Black Star.” He also had a special guest on his virtual educational program – former American Little League Baseball pitcher Mo’ne Davis – who shared inspiration and a glimpse of her history as one of just two girls who played in the Little League World Series in 2014.

Alexander then shared some quotes, favorite songs, music, illustrators, books and those who encouraged him, including his parents, a first grade teacher and a college professor. He also answered some questions that students posed and Middle School librarian Mrs. Ann-Marie Kalin posted before the start of the event.

According to Mrs. Kalin, the students are reading Alexander’s Newberry Award-winning “The Crossover,” a story told in fast-paced verse by a 12-year-old boy basketball player about the trials and triumphs of middle school life through the rhythm of basketball.

As a culmination to the event and the start of the school year, eighth graders will deepen their reading skills by reading other fiction novels in verse as part of this unit, including other books by Alexander as well as authors Katherine Applegate, Karen Hesse and Jacqueline Woodson.

Date Added: 9/18/2024

In its annual recognition of Constitution Day (Sept. 17, 1787), Wading River School students and staff wore patriot colors and some even dressed to honor those who have influenced decisions and made major contributions to our country and the world. It was a day where Abraham Lincoln, Rosie the Riveter, Thomas Edison, Eleanor Roosevelt and others walked the halls of Wading River School in recognition of the 39 delegates who signed the United States Constitution.

Students were also encouraged to write something to share with their classmates about the important person they dressed up as.

Click here to view the Constitution Day slideshow.

Date Added: 9/18/2024

Fifth graders in Mrs. Levonick and Mrs. Collins’ class at Wading River School recognized the importance of Constitution Day on Sept. 17 when they each penned their signature to a Class Constitution.

Among the principles of the code, the students vow to commit to a more perfect classroom by following procedures and routines, treat one another with respect and, above all, to make good choices.

 

Date Added: 9/18/2024

Third graders in Mrs. Nicole Virdone’s class designed a colorful introduction to their class with a bulletin board featuring the summer staple Crocs footwear. The students decorated their paper creations with charms of favorite characters, foods, sports and symbols to give a glimpse of their likes to their classmates.

 

Date Added: 9/18/2024

Nine Shoreham-Wading River High School students earned academic honors from the College Board National Recognition programs.

Students Leah Carberry, Ray Hidaka, Yiya Hu, Adam LaRosa, Giovanni Lombardi, Kerrin McGuire, Jocelyn Nastasi, Julianna O’Neill and Katelyn Roberts have been identified as 2024 Rural School National Recognition Award recipients. They were each recognized for their hard work, dedication and strong academic performance.

The criteria for these eligible students included a GPA of 3.5 or higher and PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10 assessment scores that are within the top 10% of students taking the assessment in each state for each award program or who earned a score of 3 or higher on 2 or more AP exams in ninth and 10th grade. The awards are another way for students to showcase their hard work in high school. The programs not only benefit students, but they also benefit colleges looking to recruit diverse, talented students.

The students were lauded by District Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment Mr. Alan Meinster, who noted the pride in seeing SWR students receive the recognition they deserve for all the time and hard work they place into their academic pursuits.