Earl L. Vandermeulen High School seniors Mari Fukuto and Isabela Thomsen were recently selected to participate in the prestigious New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) All-State Winter Conference, held in Rochester, NY.

Mari Fukuto performed violin with the NYSSMA All-State Symphonic Orchestra, while Isabela Thomsen was selected as an alto vocalist in the All-State Mixed Choir. Selection for the All-State Conference is a significant achievement, as students are chosen through a rigorous audition process that recognizes the highest levels of musical excellence across New York State.

Mari and Isabela had the opportunity to rehearse and perform alongside some of the finest student musicians in the state, working under the direction of renowned conductors and music educators. Earl L. Vandermeulen High School congratulates Mari Fukuto and Isabela Thomsen on this outstanding accomplishment and for representing their school music program with pride.

Earl L. Vandermeulen High School proudly announces that seven of its talented student-musicians have been selected to participate in the prestigious New York State Council of Administrators for Music Education (NYSCAME) All-County Music Festival. The festival was held at Connetquot High School and Hauppauge High School, bringing together top-performing students from across Suffolk County.

The selected students are Avery Eisaman (grade 11), Mari Fukuto (grade 12), Kevin Hong (grade 12), Joshua Kwon (grade 11), Ava Sexton (grade 11), Victoria Snaden (grade 12), and Isabela Thomsen (grade 12). These exceptional musicians earned their spots through a highly competitive process, with NYSSMA scores serving as the primary criterion, supported by strong teacher recommendations.

“We are incredibly proud of our students’ dedication to musical excellence,” said Dr. Michael Caravello, Director of Music and Fine Arts. “Their hard work, talent, and commitment to their craft are truly inspiring, and it is an honor to see them recognized at the county level.”

The Earl L. Vandermeulen High School community congratulates these students on their outstanding achievements and celebrates their continued contributions to the school’s vibrant music program.

Photo 1 (L-R): Joshua Kwon, Kevin Hong, Avery Eisaman, Mari Fukuto, Ava Sexton, and Dr. Michael Caravello (Director of Music & Fine Arts).
Photo 2 (L-R): Dr. Michael Caravello, Victoria Snaden, and Isabela Thomsen.

Earl L. Vandermeulen High School’s Drama Club successfully presented its theatrical production, Neil Simon’s beloved comedy Fools, delighting audiences with a whimsical tale filled with charm, wit, and unforgettable characters.

Set in the remote Ukrainian village of Kulyenchikov, Fools follows the misadventures of Leon Tolchinsky, a young and enthusiastic schoolteacher who arrives determined to save the villagers from a comical yet catastrophic 200-year-old curse, one that has rendered every resident hopelessly foolish. With only 24 hours to break the spell, Leon must rely on quick thinking, optimism, and sheer determination.

During his short but chaotic time in Kulyenchikov, Leon encounters a cast of hilarious and heartwarming characters. He meets a shepherd who has lost all his sheep, buys flowers from a woman who is convinced she is selling fish, falls in love, gets adopted, nearly marries, gets unadopted, and ultimately does marry the prettiest and most endearing girl in town.

Under the direction of Tony Butera, the students brought Simon’s clever humor and rich storytelling to life, showcasing standout performances, expressive comedic timing, and a deep appreciation for the play’s timeless charm. “Our cast embraced the joyful absurdity of Fools with incredible energy and heart. Our students made the world of Kulyenchikov come alive for our audiences, and we couldn’t be prouder of their work,” said Mr. Butera.

The production featured the collaborative efforts of the school’s actors, stage crew, costume designers, set builders, and technical teams, all of whom contributed to a vibrant and memorable theatrical event. Earl L. Vandermeulen High School extends its appreciation to the families, staff, and community members whose enthusiastic support helped make the Drama Club’s performance of Fools a success.

Click here to view the Earl L. Vandermeulen High School Drama Club Presents Neil Simon’s Comedy Fools slideshow.

Date Added: 12/3/2025

Orchestra students  from Port Jefferson Middle School and Port Jefferson High School were recently given a special opportunity to attend a recital by world-renowned violinist Midori at the Staller Center for the Arts.

The complimentary tickets were generously provided by Paul Newland, Outreach Director at the Staller Center, whose support helped make this memorable experience possible for the district’s young musicians and their families.

Midori’s performance showcased her mastery, artistry, and profound musicality, offering students a chance to witness live interpretations of significant works from the violin repertoire. The program for the evening included:

* Che Buford – Resonances of Spirit

* Ludwig van Beethoven – Spring Sonata

* Francis Poulenc – Sonata for Violin and Piano

* Clara Schumann – Three Romances

* Robert Schumann – Three Romances

* Franz Schubert – Rondo Brillante in B Minor

“Our students were absolutely inspired,” said Dr. Michael Caravello, Director of Music and Fine Arts. “An artist of Midori’s caliber brings music to life in a way that students never forget. We are deeply grateful to the Staller Center and to Paul Newland for opening this door for our young musicians.”

The performance not only enriched the students’ understanding of violin repertoire and performance practice, but also reinforced the district’s commitment to providing meaningful artistic experiences beyond the classroom.

 

Date Added: 11/26/2025