The Board of Education has added two seats to the table during its monthly meetings. Jr.-Sr. High School juniors Sarah Benson and Payton Friede now serve as the district’s first ex-officio student members of the board of education for the 2025-2026 school year.

Board of Education President Jeffrey Goldhammer welcomed the students during the Aug. 27 meeting. “In this role, you join us in our shared commitment to supporting the students, families and community of our district,” Mr. Goldhammer said. “While this position is non-voting, your voice and perspective represent the heart of our mission, which is to educate, empower and inspire every learner.”

A New York State law effective July 1, 2025 requires school districts to appoint at least one non-voting student to their board of education to serve in an advisory capacity. The ex-officio student board member can participate in public meetings but are excluded from executive sessions. Sarah and Payton were selected by the board and superintendent of schools Joseph A. Steimel through an interview process.

Sarah is an Advanced Placement Scholar and a member of the National Honor Society and World Language and Tri-M honor societies. She is also a varsity athlete on the bowling and tennis team and is involved in the natural Helpers and robotics clubs. Off campus, Sarah volunteers with the Shirley Community Ambulance.

Payton is an AP Scholar with Honors and is also a varsity athlete on the girls volleyball team. Additionally, she is a member of the National Honor Society and the World Language Honor Society. With aspirations of becoming a doctor, Payton volunteers at Stony Brook University Hospital.

Eastport-South Manor faculty and staff attend Superintendent’s Conference Day

The Eastport-South Manor Jr.-Sr. High School pulsed with excitement for the start of the 2025-2026 school year as administration, faculty and staff gather in the auditorium for Superintendent’s Conference Day, held on Aug. 29.

Superintendent of Schools Joseph A. Steimel welcomed everyone back from the summer break and set the tone for the school year with his message to follow the district’s motto: “Every Student Matters.” He also encouraged teachers to “commit to innovative teaching strategies” and to “be reflective.”

Board of Education President Jeffrey Goldhammer acknowledged that faculty and staff rise to accomplish the goals behind the district motto with dedication, creativity and heart. “You bring learning to life, you inspire confidence, and you make sure every student knows they matter,” he said.

Thomas Fabian, assistant superintendent for personnel and employee relations, then introduced faculty and staff who have served the District for 10 years, 20 years and 30 years.

Mr. Fabian’s presentation was followed with a presentation by keynote speaker and Leader in Me Global Ambassador Murial Summers, who noted that district employees have the ability to make significant changes in a student’s life. She asked the question, “How are you showing up?” She said, “You have to have systems and structures in place to create an environment to help all students to be seen, known and loved. You are the most important thing to happen to your students.”

The assembly concluded with an announcement that South Street School, under Principal J.M. Jackson, was recently named the District’s first Lighthouse School. The district is currently working with faculty and administration to acquire Lighthouse School status for all of its facilities through the Franklin Covey Leader in Me Program.

Date Added: 9/3/2025

District students disembarked from buses with their school supplies in tow ready to start the 2025-2026 school year on Sept. 2. Excitement resonated throughout the school hallways as students reconnected with peers, found their classrooms and met their teachers.  

Superintendent of Schools Joseph A. Steimel reported a smooth opening for the district and confidently predicted that the school year will be positive and productive for the ESM school community. He said he is excited about the district’s new programs and completed construction projects, which will positively benefit the academic program.    

Click here to view the ESM Officially Opens for 2025-2026 School Year slideshow.

Date Added: 9/2/2025

The Jr.-Sr. High School pulsed with excitement for the start of the 2025-2026 school year as administration, faculty and staff gather in the auditorium for Superintendent’s Conference Day, held on August 29. Superintendent of Schools Joseph A. Steimel welcomed everyone back from the summer break and set the tone for the school year with his message to follow the district’s motto: “Every Student Matters.” He also encouraged teachers to “commit to innovative teaching strategies” and to “be reflective.” 

Board of Education President Jeffrey Goldhammer acknowledged that faculty and staff rise to accomplish the goals behind the District motto with dedication, creativity and heart. “You bring learning to life, you inspire confidence, and you make sure every student knows they matter,” he said. 

Assistant Superintendent for Personnel and Employee Relations Thomas Fabian then introduced faculty and staff who have served the District for 10 years, 20 years and 30 years.  

Mr. Fabian’s presentation was followed with a presentation by keynote speaker and Leader in Me Global Ambassador Murial Summers, who noted that district employee has the ability to make significant changes in a student’s life. She asked the question, “How are you showing up?” She said, “You have to have systems and structures in place to create an environment to help all students to be seen, known and loved. You are the most important thing to happen to your students.” 

The assembly concluded with an announcement that South Street School, under Principal J.M. Jackson, was recently named the District’s first Lighthouse School. The District is currently working with faculty and administration to acquire Lighthouse School status for all of its facilities through the Franklin Covey Leader in Me Program. 

Click here to view the Empowering Educators, Collaborating for Academic Success slideshow.

Date Added: 9/2/2025

 

 

District principals opened their doors to students and their families during orientation programs on Aug. 26 and 27, allowing students to familiarize themselves to the school facilities and to ease any anxiety about starting the new school year.

Seventh grade students independently toured the Jr.-Sr. High School, found their classrooms and practiced opening their lockers. Principal Salvatore Alamo and Assistant Principals Peter Caccavale, Daniel Franchese and Kari Von Voigt also broke the ice with a game of Plinko in which students had the opportunity to win coupons for candy, popcorn and other treats.

New Eastport Elementary School Principal John DeKams and Tuttle Avenue School Principal Rebecca Bellezza hosted a Meet and Greet Tea where they introduced themselves and discussed their goals and educational philosophies. The Meet and Greet was followed with a third grade orientation where students and their parents toured the building with Principal DeKams.

Dayton Avenue School also held its annual third grade orientation. Fourth grade student leaders assisted Principal Dr. Shelita Watkis in leading third graders on a tour. Students also dropped off supplies in their classrooms, followed by a trip to the playground to meet new friends.

Click here to view the Students Attend Student Orientations slideshow.

Date Added: 8/29/2025