Bethpage High School senior Suchitha Channapatna was named as a semifinalist in the 67th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

“I was kind of surprised when I heard the news about this program,” Channapatna said. “But now I’m super excited to be recognized as a semifinalist.”

These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $30 million that will be offered next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the finalist level of the competition. About 95% of the semifinalists are expected to attain finalist standing, and approximately half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title.

NMSC, a nonprofit organization that operates without government assistance, was established in 1955 specifically to conduct the annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Scholarships are underwritten by NMSC with its own funds and by approximately 400 business organizations and higher education institutions that share NMSC’s goals of honoring the nation’s scholastic champions and encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence.

On Sept. 10, seniors from Bethpage High School gathered on the school’s front lawn to pay respects and reflect on the events of Sept. 11, 2001. In a touching tribute, each member of the senior class held a small American flag and stood in solidarity to observe a moment of silence and listen to reflections from district administrators.

“As the years pass since the events of Sept. 11, 2001, we realize that our students no longer have their own memories from that time,” said Superintendent of Schools David Schneider. “Their memories of this important event are only those that we at school and at home share with them. The significance of this day has not changed for so many families, and we in Bethpage will make sure to do our part to keep that significance alive.”

During the ceremony, Bethpage High School Principal Nicholas Jantz recounted his memories of Sept. 11. “I remember the fear, confusion, and anger that I felt while watching the horrors unfold on television,” he said. “But later, I also remember the tremendous sense of patriotism and unity that swept our great nation. Students, I challenge you to honor the victims of this heinous act by recreating that feeling of unity here at Bethpage High School ­­–to treat each other better, to show more patience, and be more compassionate towards each other.”

The ceremony concluded with a touching rendition of Amazing Grace, performed on the bagpipes by Bethpage High School Assistant Principal Kevin Healy. As the music played, students planted their American flags into the ground, creating a beautiful field of honor in remembrance of all those who lost their lives.

Students across the district were all smiles on Sept. 1 as the district kicked off the start of the 2021-22 school year. Despite the rain, students were excited to explore their schools, meet their teachers and reconnect with their peers. Teachers introduced students to their new instructional setting and facilitated opportunities for students to interact with their classmates. We wish all students a wonderful school year ahead and thank the Bethpage community for its continued partnership!

As the sun shined bright during new teacher orientation in the district on Aug. 24, administrators spoke about the bright futures ahead for its newest faculty members. They gathered for a welcome breakfast in the high school senior courtyard before diving into the nitty-gritty of Bethpage schools.

The 16 new teachers were hired for their knowledge, skills and potential in a variety of areas including elementary and secondary education, library media, literacy, music and art, world languages and pupil personnel services. They will work at the high school, middle school and the three elementary schools, striving to make a difference in the lives of their students.

“You are the best of the best, and you are in one of the best places to work,” Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Caroline Lavelle told the new teachers during her welcoming remarks, noting the rigorous hiring process they went through to make it to new teacher orientation.

Superintendent David Schneider spoke about the strong partnership between the community and the district, as well as the “kids first” philosophy of a very supportive Board of Education. He wished the new teachers long and healthy careers in Bethpage. There were also remarks from Board President Michael Kelly and the directors of several departments.

After the breakfast, teachers learned about the district’s vast array of instructional technology resources. Later in the day, they had a chance to get acquainted with their new schools.

New teachers this year are Kayleigh Alonso, Brian Arcari, Diana Easteadt, Amanda Gherardi, Stephanie Gould, Rachel Heym, Maria Kambouras, Margaret Kammerer, Cristin O’Neill, Anthony Regateiro, Ashley Scotto, Adrienne Sodano, Amanda Tepedino, Heather Tullo, Nicole Turano and Erin Zassman. The district also welcomes Valerie Filbry as director of ELA and literacy and Chris Pallatos as director of science to the administrative team, as well as teaching assistants Diane Fierro, Darlene Happel and Sandra Hoffman.

Students in Dayna Vollmuth's class in the Extended School Year program practiced functional academics on Friday, Aug. 6 with a "day at the movies." Their classroom was transformed into a theater, complete with a snack bar and big screen. The students were required to practice and utilize a variety of skills, such as purchasing tickets, counting change and selecting items from the food menu. The lesson concluded with a showing of the animated film "Luca."