Massapequa Public Schools

Unqua First Grade Authors Publishing Animal Books

From land to sea, first graders at Unqua Elementary School explored living creatures for their nonfiction writing projects. The “All About” animal books were the culmination of weeks of hard work.

Students used books and online resources to research their animals, which included birds, fish, insects, mammals and more. The young authors wrote about what their respective animal eats, what it looks like and where it lives, along with other fun facts. Each eight-page book included a colorful cover illustration, table of contents, dedication page and meet the author section.

After spending much of the year exploring nonfiction story elements, first graders were able to put their knowledge into practice. They followed the process of real authors by penning a first draft, and editing and revising their stories before publishing.

Tonight's Massapequa High School Class of 2026 graduation ceremony will be livestreamed on YouTube. The ceremony begins at 6:00 p.m. and can be viewed here:
https://www.youtube.com/live/TNfdU8eUrKQ

Students from the high school's Ames Campus and Berner Middle School recently showcased their creativity at recent art shows. There was so much great work by our talented student-artists!

Birch Lane, East Lake Students Salute the Stars and Stripes

Patriotic music played and history came alive as Birch Lane and East Lake elementary schools in the district hosted Flag Day ceremonies on June 12. Students and staff marked the holiday, celebrated annually on June 14, with special tributes for the 250th anniversary of the founding of America.

East Lake’s ceremony featured performances by three instrumental ensembles. The handbell choir, led by Gina Aspetti, performed the “Star-Spangled Banner” followed by orchestra’s performance of “Yankee Doodle,” under the direction of Debbie Burkart. The band, conducted by Amanda Collins, played “My Country Tis of Thee” and “You’re a Grand Old Flag.”

Serving as the backdrop for the performers were class flags made by students over the past several weeks in red, white and blue. The project was spearheaded by art teacher Patti Krakoff and was a special way to celebrate the nation’s milestone birthday.

Principal Thomas McKillop spoke about the history and meaning of the American flag, explaining the purpose of the 13 stripes and 50 stars, and why red, white and blue were chosen as the colors. He explained that the flag represents freedom, kindness, courage, respect and responsibility, values that bond Americans together.

“Our flag tells a story,” he said, “the story of our nation.”

At Birch Lane, students experienced a visual evolution of the American flag. Student council speakers shared information about each version of the flag, as well other meaningful flags, which were then presented by representatives from Massapequa Elks Lodge No. 2162 and local veterans. The band, chorus and orchestra serenaded the audience with patriotic songs throughout the event. Conducting the band was Gary Loock, with Thoams Tucker leading the chorus and the Julia Sohl directing the orchestra.

Student council members Amelia Tseng and Sofia Edelbach celebrated the “really big birthday” that America is about the celebrate. They explained how every generation has worked to make the country stronger.

“We are the future leaders, creators and helpers who will carry our country forward,” Sofia said. “America’s story isn’t finished yet, and we get to help write the next chapter.”

Remarks from Principal Stephen Aspetti and Assistant Principal Joyce Larkin reminded students to take away not just the history of the flag, but the legacy of a nation that grows, adapts and strives forward together. The program concluded with a patriotic medley from two music teachers, Michael Molloy on the bagpipes and Dennis McLoughlin on the drum.

Congratulations to Massapequa High School Class of 2026 valedictorian Kathleen Cooney and salutatorian Meghan Walsh, as they were recently honored at the annual Celebrating Excellence Breakfast. The annual event at the Crest Hollow Country Club was hosted by the Nassau County Council of School Superintendents.

The Massapequa High School Mock Trial team was recently recognized by the Board of Education for winning the 2026 Nassau County Bar Association competition and advancing to the state tournament. Massapequa beat out more than 50 other schools in Nassau County to win the regional title. The team is led by longtime coach and AP government and law teacher Daniel Bachman. Congratulations to the champions!

Congratulations to the Massapequa High School boys varsity lacrosse team on winning the state championship! What an amazing spring it’s been for the Chiefs!