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Scan this QR code or click the link below to become part of our ParentSquare Community Group. You’ll receive news and updates about the upcoming Budget Vote & Election. A newsletter featuring this QR code, along with additional ways to stay informed, will be delivered to your mailboxes this month.

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CAPITOL COURSE

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Dalers Navigate the Legislative Landscape

Dalers visit the capitol. On Tuesday, February 4, 2025, the Farmingdale Legislative Action Committee (LAC) visited the New York State Capitol in Albany. Their purpose was to present their 2024-2025 legislative proposals and to discuss the impact of pending and future legislation on public schools. Established to assist the Board of Education in implementing solutions regarding legislative matters, the Committee focuses on assessing the impact of current and proposed State and Federal education legislation, promoting legislation that supports the District’s mission, and communicating vital information to the community.

The Legislative Action Committee comprises the Assistant to the Superintendent for Administration, Board of Education members, Farmingdale residents, Farmingdale High School students, Farmingdale staff, and members from the collective bargaining units. The committee meets with local and state officials several times yearly to discuss their current Legislative Proposals. This year, the LAC arranged meetings with Senator Rhoads and Assemblyman Kwani O’Pharrow. Furthermore, spontaneous discussions took place with Assemblyman John Mikulin, Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz, and Assemblywoman Karen McMahon. The students posed numerous insightful questions concerning foundation aid, mental health, and school safety, and appeared to gain a wealth of knowledge from the entire experience.

The event's highlight was the guided tour of the New York State Capitol building, which included the legislative chambers, Hall of Governors, Governor’s Reception Room, Hall of New York, historic staircases, and carvings. Students also shared Farmingdale proposals with numerous additional legislators to raise awareness of the Farmingdale School District's legislative advocacy points.

“Our Farmingdale High School students made our community proud with their poise, advocacy, and self-assurance for diverse topics expressed,” said Assistant to the Superintendent for Administration Dr. Samuel Thompson. “I just want to express my gratitude to all those who helped make this event a success and to our students who represented us well!”

ACADEMIC SUPERSTARS

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The shiny plaques celebrating Valedictorian Shea Hiotidis and Salutatorian Jaylyn Umana from the Class of have landed! Keep an eye out for their names shining bright on the Valedictorian Salutatorian Wall of Fame at Farmingdale High School.

With the honors of Valedictorian and Salutatorian, Shea and Jaylyn have the privilege of delivering speeches at the Farmingdale High School Graduation Ceremony on June 17, 2025. Additionally, they will enjoy a breakfast with their families, hosted by the Nassau County Council of School Superintendents. Farmingdale High School Principal Jed Herman and Farmingdale Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini will join them in celebrating this special occasion.

As the Class of 2025 prepares to embark on new adventures, Shea and Jaylyn are shining examples of what can be achieved through dedication, hard work, and a supportive community. Their stories inspire their peers and future students at Farmingdale High School, encouraging them to dream big and strive for excellence.

A NIGHT OF CULTURAL DELIGHT

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Albany Avenue Elementary School hosted its second annual Multicultural Night on January 28, 2025, celebrating student cultures. The cafeteria featured cultural displays, traditional clothing, and information about various heritages, alongside flags, artwork, and music. A highlight was the international spread of traditional dishes, making the event a success as families learned about each other's cultures while enjoying food. This celebration promoted diversity and fostered appreciation within the community, leaving participants proud of their heritage.

YOUNG LEADER TAKES THE HELM

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Third-Grader from Northside Elementary Wins "Superintendent-for-a-Day" Raffle and Learns About Leadership

Jack Lamonte, a student at Northside Elementary School, won the prestigious "Superintendent-for-a-Day" raffle in December during the Dalers Deck the Halls breakfast. This unique opportunity allowed Jack to shadow Superintendent Paul Defendini and gain a firsthand understanding of the role's responsibilities.

On January 13, Superintendent Defendini surprised Jack in his third-grade classroom at Northside Elementary, presenting him with an official Superintendent ID badge and congratulating him on his achievement. Jack was instructed to report to the Superintendent’s office on January 23, 2025, dressed professionally. Mr. Defendini shared a detailed schedule for their day, filled with experiences aimed at giving Jack an insight into the life of a Superintendent.

With his supportive parents by his side, Jack enthusiastically shadowed Superintendent Defendini throughout the day—Daler, of course, was there too. His adventure began in Mr. Defendini's office, nestled within the Central Administrative wing of Howitt Middle School. There, Jack put pen to paper, signing a few official documents before setting off for a tour of the bustling Farmingdale High School. His eyes widened with excitement as he explored the culinary and robotics classrooms, the theater space that particularly captivated him, and even the cafeteria, where he chatted with the kitchen staff about a special meal for Northside.

The afternoon brought Jack back to his own stomping ground, Northside Elementary, where he had a friendly meeting with Principal Dr. Christopher Peterson. He made time to catch up with his former teachers and playfully requested a homework-free night for his classmates. Jack also joined his class for a unique music lesson, where the talented William Herbert, Bob Silverstein, and Madelyn Jimenez from the Farmingdale High School theater program joined them for a session filled with melodies and improvisation.

The day wound down at Howitt Middle School, where Jack was treated to a tour of the top-notch Aquatic Center. He then recorded a heartfelt audio message for his fellow Dalers, wrapping up an unforgettable day of discovery and learning.

Superintendent Paul Defendini couldn't help but express his admiration, “Jack’s professionalism and enthusiasm were truly inspiring. His attentiveness to staff, welcoming smiles, firm handshakes, and a keen eye for detail were remarkable. Having him accompany me throughout the day was an absolute pleasure.”

By The Numbers