Bravo, Harborfields! A Week of Achievement

We had another incredible week that ended with amazing theatrical performances at Harborfields High School. The HHS Theatre Company’s rendition of Chicago was a vibrant showcase of creativity, teamwork, and passion. From the actors on stage, to the crew behind the scenes, and the musicians in the pit, it was a collaborative achievement that everyone involved should be extremely proud of! 

This is a short but busy week, as our Spring Recess begins on Thursday. My next weekly update to the community will be on April 19th. I hope you all have a chance to enjoy time with family and friends.  

March Superintendent’s Spotlight
March is Music In Our Schools Month, and what better way to celebrate than by featuring our incredible music program during the Superintendent's spotlight at the Board of Education meeting? Mrs. Kassinger proudly highlighted the elementary music program, which begins at Washington Drive and continues at TJL. Members of the TJL chorus and band attended the meeting and performed America the Beautiful.

Congratulations - National Merit Finalist 
After being named a National Merit Semifinalist in September, Kyleigh Connors has advanced to Finalist standing! This places Kyleigh among approximately 15,000 students selected nationwide, fewer than 1% of all U.S. high school seniors, in recognition of exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and potential for success in rigorous college programs. She is eligible to receive a National Merit Scholarship awarded by corporations, colleges, and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Congratulations, Kyleigh!

Congratulations - SCOPE Service Awards

I am pleased to share that three outstanding individuals were recognized for their service to our students, staff, and community at the SCOPE Service Award Ceremony last Monday. Please join me in congratulating our Outstanding Administrator Service Award winner, Mr. Rob Franco; our Outstanding Teacher Service Award winner, Mr. Augie Rettino; and our Outstanding Community Service Award Winner, Ms. Jen Bavaro. Joining me in support of our award winners was Board of Education Vice President, Dr. Eve Meltzer-Krief. Thank you for all you do, and congratulations! 

Model Schools Administrator of the Year - Ms. Mary-Lynn Karpenske

We are thrilled to announce that our Director of Technology and Security Systems, Ms. Mary-Lynn Karpenske, has been named the 2026 Model Schools Administrator of the Year by Western Suffolk BOCES! This prestigious honor recognizes her outstanding commitment to the growth of instructional technology at Harborfields. Since transitioning from the classroom to leadership three years ago, Ms. Karpenske has been an invaluable advocate for the purposeful integration of learning tools. Her selfless leadership and unwavering support of our staff and students have been instrumental to our district’s success. Beyond her instructional impact, her tireless work in strengthening our cybersecurity posture and safeguarding student and staff data has been truly monumental. Please join me in congratulating Ms. Karpenske!

Thank You - Harborfields Council of PTAs!

Special shoutout to the PTA Council, which hosted another successful Dessert Reception for senior citizens ahead of the Harborfield Theater Company’s production of Chicago. The room was filled with community members who not only enjoyed some sweet treats, but listened to our incredible student musicians in the jazz band, and then watched our talented students perform on stage. A wonderful community event that I look forward to every year, which wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated volunteers! 

2026-2027 School Budget Development Process

The budget development process for the 2026-2027 school year is well underway. The Third Budget Presentation was provided during our March 18th Regular Board of Education meeting.  As always, we encourage residents to stay engaged in this process by attending meetings, reviewing budget information posted on our website, and contacting the district with any questions or feedback. Thank you! 

Newsday Top 100 - Softball

Congratulations to Sadie Forman on being named to Newsday's Top 100 list. Sadie hit .373 with a .542 slugging percentage, nine RBIs, six doubles, and two triples last year.  We are looking forward to an incredible spring season ahead.  Way to go, Sadie! 

Newsday Top 100 - Boys Lacrosse 

Congratulations to Chris Prainito on being named to Newsday's Top 100 boys lacrosse list. Chris posted 26 goals and 28 assists last season. Coach Glenn Lavey described him as a “slick attackman with great hands who can do everything.”

Model Schools Grant Winner - Ms. Gozinsky

Congratulations to 2nd-grade teacher, Ms. Holly Gozinsky, on earning a $1,000 Model Schools Grant from Western Suffolk BOCES.  The grant funds will be used to support an instructional unit called Exploring Our Harborfields Community, where second-grade students gain an understanding of their local community by identifying important places, describing their roles, and explaining how each place contributes to the community. Aligned with the Grade 2 New York State Social Studies Standards, students explore geographic features and community resources, gather information, and communicate their learning through a collaboratively created digital brochure. Through the lessons in this unit, students strengthen their ability to describe their community, practice civic awareness, and share information with an authentic audience.  Congratulations, Ms. Gozinsky!