Bethpage High School recently marked the end of an era as it welcomed the district's third graders for the 24th and final annual Maritime Festival, a cherished tradition that has brought Long Island's marine ecosystems to life for more than two decades, under the guidance of BHS science teacher, Mr. Larry Portuese.
Held over two days on May 20-21, the event rotated younger students through a series of sea-themed stations across the high school, each led by upperclassmen enrolled in forensics and environmental science courses.
Among the most captivating stops were two touch pools where third graders got up close with live marine animals, including lobsters, horseshoe crabs, and eels, in an experience that never fails to spark equal parts wonder and nervous energy. In the Little Theater, a fish dissection station gave students an inside look at biology in action, including a firsthand view of a fish's heart and internal anatomy.
The exploration continued throughout the building. Students made their way to the high school pool to examine scuba diving equipment, tried their hand at fish printing in the lobby, practiced tying maritime-style ropes, and engaged in games and demonstrations illustrating the oceanic food chain.
Bethpage High School musicians filled the school lobby with nautical-themed music selections, including a crowd-pleasing rendition of “How Far I'll Go” from “Moana.”
The Maritime Festival was the lifelong project of science and forensics teacher Larry Portuese, who created the event and shepherded it through all 24 years of its run. With his retirement this year, the festival closes alongside him, a fitting farewell to both a beloved educator and the tradition he built from the ground up.
