The 100th day of school is a major milestone, marking the halfway point of an incredible year of learning and growth. It’s a special opportunity to celebrate just how much our students have accomplished since September. Across the district’s elementary schools, classrooms were filled with excitement as students created lists of 100 favorite things, counted and strung 100 beads, designed festive “100 Days” headbands, and took part in hands-on activities centered around the number 100. The biggest highlight? Students dressed up as 100-year-olds, imagining their future selves with plenty of creativity and laughs along the way.

Dalers of all ages throughout the district donned purple on Friday, February 13, 2026, to show their support for P.S. I Love You Day. This day shines a light on mental health and combating bullying. By introducing mental health education to students at an early age, discussions will become more open, enabling students to identify when they or others require assistance. Every second Friday of February, communities wear purple to promote kindness, create a welcoming atmosphere, and emphasize that mental health is as crucial as physical health.

The spirit of the games has arrived at Northside Elementary! The Physical Education department hosted a spectacular Winter Olympics where students competed in team skiing, curling, bobsled, and a torch relay. These young athletes learned about Olympic traditions and winter sports while staying active and showing incredible teamwork!

The Farmingdale School District’s annual All-District Concert drew a full house to the Farmingdale High School Auditorium, where 371 student musicians in grades 5 through 12 took the stage. This year’s performance highlighted the Chorus, featuring students from all six schools, as part of the district’s tradition of rotating among Band, Strings, and Chorus each year. Families and community members gathered to celebrate the students’ musical growth from elementary through high school.

A Year of Preparation

“Our choral staff began preparing for this concert more than a year ago,” said Director of Fine and Performing Arts Greg Warnokowski. “I am deeply grateful for their dedication, the countless hours of preparation, and the unwavering commitment they showed to our students. Because of their hard work, our students were given a truly special musical experience they will carry with them for a lifetime.”

Performance Highlights

The evening featured a sequential showcase of talent:

• Elementary All-District Chorus, directed by Deanna Cupolo and Irene Smykowski
• Howitt Middle School Chorus, directed by Danielle Tucker and Eric Hulse
• Farmingdale High School Treble Chorus, directed by Joseph Franzino
• Farmingdale High School Mixed Chorus and Combined Chorus, directed by Jessica Mischke

For the Grand Finale, all 371 singers filled the stage. Conducted by Danielle Tucker, the combined group performed "This is Me" from The Greatest Showman.

A Message on the Power of Community

As the evening concluded with a powerful grand finale, Superintendent Paul Defendini left families with a heartfelt reminder of the program’s lasting value. “I encourage you to do everything you can to keep your child involved in our music program, because it’s so much more than a class — it’s a community. Through rehearsals, performances, and shared experiences, your children form meaningful connections that help guide them through middle school, high school, and beyond with confidence and a true sense of belonging.”

Looking Ahead

The All-District Concert is a cherished tradition that brings together the entire Farmingdale School District. While this year’s performance highlighted the Chorus, next year’s 2026–2027 All-District Concert will proudly feature the Strings ensemble.

Congratulations to our talented students and the following choral directors: Abigail Coacci, Deanna Cupolo, Emilie D’Andrilli, Joseph Franzino, Stephanie Haas, Eric Hulse, MiHee Hwang, Catherine McLoughlin, Jessica Mischke, Nicole Nappi, Irene Smykowski, and Danielle Tucker.

A Very Dahl Parent University

Join the Farmingdale School District on March 10, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Weldon E. Howitt Middle School for an evening of learning and family connection.

Students are invited to wear their favorite pajamas and bring a towel or pillow to snuggle up for a special movie night. We will screen Wonka for students in grades K-3 and The BFG for students in grades 4-8. The movies start at 6:10 p.m. sharp. Attendees will enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, and popcorn during the films.

While students enjoy their movies, parents will attend interactive workshops focused on supporting literacy at home. These sessions provide practical strategies and tools to help children grow as readers.

At the end of the night, every child will receive a book to take home. Students in grades K-3 will receive Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and students in grades 4-8 will receive The BFG.

Event Details

Date: March 10, 2026

Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Location: Weldon E. Howitt Middle School

RSVP for the Parent University event by February 27, 2026.