July Board of Education Synopsis

At the June 9 meeting of the Central Islip Board of Education, Board President Luis Alcantara opened by thanking the community for passing the school budget. Alcantara, who was re-elected to a three-year term, also congratulated Glenn C. Mitchell on his re-election to another three-year term.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sharon A. Dungee welcomed Morrow Elementary School sixth-grade teacher Crystal Jackson, who opened the meeting with a rendition of the national anthem.

Alcantara also congratulated Central Islip High School students Sabrina Delgado-Flores and Taylor Burrell-Ford, who will serve as the Board of Education’s student delegate and alternate delegate, respectively, beginning July 1.

The meeting featured several recognitions:

• Cordello Elementary School Safety Officer Jason Schafer was honored for saving a student who was choking on a bottle cap. School Safety Director Thomas Weiner presented Schafer with a certificate of recognition. A News 12 video highlighted the story.

• The PTA Council was recognized for hosting the Harlem Wizards at Central Islip High School. Proceeds from the event will support student scholarships. A video clip from News 12 was shared.

• Badminton players Jearmi Rosario and Jennifer Arias were congratulated for earning first place in doubles—the highest ranking in team history. Coach Gudema joined them for the recognition.

• Amelia Torres, a student at Cordello Elementary, was recognized for winning first place in the Suffolk County Pool Safety Poster Contest. Nurse Kelli Pasha was also honored by the Suffolk County Legislature for her service.

• Ms. Campbell’s class from Mulligan Elementary was acknowledged for winning a Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. poster contest sponsored by State Sen. Monica Martinez.

Dr. Dungee and Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Jessica Iafrate shared highlights of an initiative led by Mulvey Elementary School social worker Ruth Tamayo to support migrant students. A short video, What the American Dream Means to Me, featured students' aspirations.

Iafrate also outlined several districtwide anti-bullying initiatives, including themed days and weeks in October, November, and February.

Upon Dr. Dungee’s recommendation, the Board appointed Frank A. Bacchi as assistant superintendent for business and John Piropato as interim director of health and physical education, effective July 1.

Responding to a resident’s question, Dr. Dungee said the district is working to reinforce appropriate dress codes. Student Delegate-elect Delgado-Flores added that student council members are collaborating with Principal Eric Haruthunian to develop guidelines for school attire.

The Board accepted a $5,000 donation from Burlington Coat Factory through the AdoptAClassroom.org initiative to benefit Morrow Elementary School. Dr. Dungee noted the funds will help teachers purchase classroom supplies.

Alcantara announced that the My Brother’s Keeper Community Fellows Program will be implemented at Central Islip High School from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.

The next Board of Education meeting is scheduled for July 14 at 7:30 p.m. in the Alfano School Multi-Purpose Room, 50 Wheeler Road, Central Islip.