Freeport Public Schools

Leo F. Giblyn Elementary School celebrated cultures from around the world during its annual International Day luncheon on May 14, bringing together students, staff, families, and district leaders for a vibrant celebration of diversity, unity, and community. 🌎✨

Inspired by the African proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” students shared thoughtful reflections on kindness, acceptance, and the strength that comes from celebrating one another’s differences.

The event featured cultural attire, student performances, a lively Step Team and Rumbaton dance presentation, and a multicultural food tasting with dishes from around the world.

Congratulations to Giblyn PTA President Nalan Bektas, recipient of the Mary Johnson International Day Award, which honors her dedication to promoting inclusion and multicultural understanding within the school community.

For 14 years, the Leo F. Giblyn Elementary School community has proudly partnered with ALS Ride for Life to raise awareness, inspire compassion, and support individuals and families affected by ALS. 💙

On May 11, students and staff welcomed Ride for Life participants during the organization’s annual visit, a meaningful tradition that continues to bring the school community together each year.

Students proudly presented a donation of more than $2,000 raised through the school’s annual Coin and Dollar Drive, bringing the partnership’s total contributions to more than $20,000 throughout the years. The day also featured a schoolwide musical performance led by music teacher Shannon Abramovitz, a special presentation by the Giblyn Step Team, and handmade banners created by fourth-grade students to support those living with ALS.

Each fall, Ride for Life volunteers visit the school to speak with fourth-grade students about ALS and the organization’s mission. In the spring, students eagerly welcome the team during the annual ride, bringing the experience full circle and reinforcing the core values that guide ALS Ride for Life: Never give up. Never lose hope. Always remain optimistic. Be willing to defy the odds.

Freeport High School students put their financial skills to the test at the Junior Achievement of New York Stock Market Challenge on April 16, competing against top teams from NYC, the Hudson Valley, and Long Island, and earning impressive 8th- and 9th-place finishes in the championship round! 📈💼

Earlier in the season, the team also secured 2nd place at the Long Island Regional Competition and advanced to the finals.

Shoutout to team leaders Mujtaba Bukhari and Jeremy Henderson, along with Adrian Rivera, Adriano Williams, Raphael Lloyd, Tushan Hardyal, and Victor Carchipulla Guerrer for their outstanding performance!

Guided by teacher Eileen Shultis, these students demonstrated strong teamwork, critical thinking, and real-world financial decision-making in this fast-paced, live trading simulation.

🎉 Congratulations to sixth-grader Ashley Lopez Chavez for earning 1st place in the 2026 Town of Hempstead Recycling Poster Contest! 🌎♻️

Ashley's creative, impactful design stood out among the entries, and she was honored at a special ceremony. We’re so proud of you, Ashley! 👏

Second grade students at Leo F. Giblyn Elementary School engaged in STEM activities through an exciting partnership with Morrison Mentors.

From virtual reality to drones and engineering challenges, students explored, created, and problem-solved while having fun. Experiences like these help spark curiosity and build confidence, one engaging activity at a time! 🔬✨

Great things are happening across Freeport thanks to our assistant principals. We appreciate everything they do to support our students, staff, and school community.

On Thursday, March 26, J.W. Dodd Middle School students and staff came together for an inspiring and impactful St. Baldrick’s Foundation head-shaving event, raising awareness and critical funds for childhood cancer research.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of the school community, the event has raised more than $11,000! This milestone surpasses the school’s original $10,000 goal and reflects the power of student-led service and community support.

The event featured 17 brave shavees, including 5 students, who shaved their heads in solidarity with children battling cancer, along with 4 trimees who generously donated their ponytails.
Leading up to the big day, students and staff organized a variety of creative fundraisers, including bake sales, bracelet and snack sales, a thrift shop with donated items from local businesses, and the crowd-favorite “Tape Principal Mr. Porciello to the Wall” fundraiser, all contributing to the impressive total.

👏 Congratulations to everyone involved for making a difference and supporting lifesaving research!

Freeport High School students delivered an electrifying performance of the musical On Your Feet! The production celebrated the inspiring journey and music of Gloria Estefan and Emilio Estefan, bringing their story to life with energy, passion, and heart. From humble beginnings to international superstardom, the musical traced their journey as they defied expectations, cultural barriers, and setbacks to create a groundbreaking new sound.

Directed by Vashti Burke and produced by Renson Delos Santos, the show showcased the incredible talents of the cast, along with the dedicated crew working behind the scenes, whose teamwork and commitment created a truly unforgettable experience for the entire school community.

Congratulations to the cast, crew, pit, and production team on yet another outstanding musical performance! 🎭✨

J.W. Dodd was filled with fun as students and staff came together for a meaningful cause! 😄

During the “Tape Mr. Porciello to the Wall” fundraiser, the school community showed incredible support for childhood cancer research in the lead-up to the St. Baldrick’s event. After a full day of lunchtime donations, where participants could buy a strip of tape, Mr. Porciello was taped to the wall during 7th period.

🎉 Congratulations to the 126 J.W. Dodd Middle School eighth graders who were recently inducted into the National Junior Honor Society!

Held at Freeport High School’s Performing Arts Center, the ceremony recognized students for excellence in scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Collectively, these students contributed an incredible 1,400 hours of community service by supporting veterans, donating to those in need, and giving back to their school community.

Each inductee received their NJHS pin and recited the official pledge, marking this important milestone. We are so proud of these students for their hard work and commitment to making a difference! 👏