Dozens of Port Jefferson students are advancing their musical skills by taking part in the Summer Music Camp at Port Jefferson.

Beginner and intermediate band and string classes for elementary and middle school students are led by music teachers Mr. Mark Abbonizio and Mr. Christian Neubert. The lessons at Edna Louise Spear Elementary School help to foster an appreciation of music and to develop the skills for New York State School Music Association solo performances during the academic year.

“We are excited to see our students and educators back creating music together,” Dr. Michael Caravello, District Director of Music and Fine Arts said. “The joy in exploring their talents and expanding their confidence as they master playing their instrument is a great boost to their self-esteem and a positive outlet for creativity.”

Following his role as Port Jefferson Middle School principal for six years, the Port Jefferson School District is pleased to name Dr. Robert Neidig as Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction. He was appointed at the July 1 Board of Education meeting.

The veteran educator joined the school district in 2015 and swiftly took on his new role as middle school principal, becoming popular with administrators, faculty members, students and families. His commitment to academics and leadership in the building resulted in a realignment of the school’s mathematics curriculum, the creation of a coding program, a library makerspace and a mindfulness program. Dr. Neidig worked closely with the Rotary Club of Port Jefferson honoring the “Most Motivated Student” monthly awards. Partnering with SEPTA, he also successfully launched the “Royal Gaming” club with students.

Beyond the middle school, Dr. Neidig has taken on districtwide responsibilities including English as a New Language coordinator and the Social and Emotional reopening committee chairperson. Dr. Neidig is part of the Professional Development committee, the Equity team and the District Safety team.

Dr. Neidig holds a bachelor’s degree in secondary education with a concentration in social studies from the University of Scranton, a master’s degree in liberal studies and a master’s degree in school district administration from Stony Brook University, and an educational doctorate in educational administration from Dowling College. Before joining the Port Jefferson School District, he was Assistant Principal of North Country Road Middle School in the Miller Place School District. Prior to his years as an administrator, he began his educational career as a secondary social studies teacher in the Babylon School District.

“We are so pleased to welcome Dr. Neidig to this role,” said Superintendent of Schools Jessica Schmettan. “His current commitment to our school community is evident as we continue to provide a personalized, rigorous educational program. In this new position, Dr. Neidig will continue to make the Port Jefferson School District an exceptional place to learn.”

With proud parents, siblings, friends, teachers, administrators and members of the Board of Education, the Earl L. Vandermeulen High School Class of 2021 received their diplomas during the 127th annual commencement exercises on June 25.

Principal Eric Haruthunian welcomed everyone to the momentous ceremony. Grace Keegan led in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the national anthem performed by valedictorian Peggy Yin.

Words of wisdom and congratulatory remarks on the accomplishments of the students were offered by Superintendent of Schools Jessica Schmettan, Mr. Haruthunian and parent speaker Dr. Stephen Rabeno, father of twin graduates Mattea Rabeno and Michela Rabeno. Dr. Rabeno shared an inspiring story of his daughters’ growing up in Port Jefferson and referred to Robert Fulghum’s “All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten” as a reflection of the kindness and acceptance of students in the school community.

Peggy and salutatorian Massimo Cipriano shared memories with their fellow classmates and thanked family members and teachers for the continued encouragement for all students to succeed in the small school community.

Mr. Haruthunian then presented the Class of 2021 to Superintendent Schmettan and Board of Education president Ellen Boehm before inviting each student to the podium and highlighting their high school careers and future plans. He was assisted by Assistant Principal Kevin Bernier in handing out the diplomas. The students then stood and tossed their caps in the air in celebration of becoming the newest graduates of the high school.

From the entire Port Jefferson School District and community, congratulations and best wishes to the Class of 2021.