The Port Jefferson School District proudly hosted its 2nd annual club fair, an exciting event designed to showcase the diverse range of extracurricular opportunities available to students at both Earl L. Vandermeulen High School and Port Jefferson Middle School.

Held in the gymnasium, the club fair offered students from grades 6 through 12 a one-stop event to explore the diverse clubs and activities offered throughout the district. Club advisors and current members set up eye-catching displays and interactive booths to share their missions, highlight past accomplishments, and recruit new participants. Clubs and activities displayed at the fair ranged from robotics club to debate club, from interact club to art and drama clubs. The fair highlighted the district’s commitment to providing a well-rounded student experience.

“Our annual club fair is a great way to connect students with the opportunities that match their interests and passions,” said Principal John Ruggero. “It helps build community, leadership, and school spirit across all grade levels.”

Students were encouraged to ask questions, sign up for clubs that piqued their interest, and learn how they can get involved in shaping their school community. The event reflects the district’s ongoing mission to promote student engagement, collaboration, and personal growth beyond the classroom. By giving students a platform to explore new interests and develop leadership skills, the club fair continues to be a valuable tradition in Port Jefferson.

Click here to view the Port Jefferson School District Hosts 2nd Annual Club Fair to Inspire Student Involvement slideshow.

The Port Jefferson School District, in collaboration with its Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA), proudly honored 28 students for their extraordinary commitment to community service during a special recognition ceremony held at the district’s Board of Education meeting on October 7, 2025.

The honorees were celebrated for their selfless dedication and meaningful contributions to the Port Jefferson community, having collectively devoted hundreds of hours to volunteer efforts throughout the year. Their work spanned a wide range of causes, including supporting local charities, mentoring younger students, participating in environmental initiatives, and helping to organize neighborhood events.

This year’s recognition held particular significance following the cancellation of the Presidential Service Awards, a longstanding tradition that had been deeply meaningful to students and families in the district. In response, the PTSA created a new platform to ensure that students’ hard work and civic spirit did not go unnoticed.

Each student was recognized individually during the ceremony, with PTSA and district leaders commending their unique volunteer journeys and impact. The event served not only as a celebration of student achievement but also as a reaffirmation of the district’s mission to cultivate responsible, engaged citizens.The Port Jefferson School District and PTSA remain committed to supporting student-led service efforts and promoting opportunities for civic engagement across all grade levels.

Date Added: 10/15/2025

The Port Jefferson School District celebrated an exciting and spirited 2025 Homecoming season with a series of events that brought together students, staff, families, and community members.

Festivities began on Friday, September 19, with the annual Homecoming Parade, a beloved tradition featuring student-athletes, cheerleaders, marching bands, decorated vehicles and school clubs. The parade marched proudly around the district, showcasing the Royal spirit and community pride. The excitement continued on Friday, September 27, with a fun-filled day of events. The morning kicked off with the Royal Educational Foundation Fun Run, where students from across the district participated in a spirited run to promote health, wellness, and school unity.

Later that day, families and students gathered for the Homecoming Carnival, which transformed the school grounds into a vibrant celebration complete with games, food, music, and activities for all ages. The festivities culminated with the Homecoming Football Game, where the Port Jefferson Royals took the field. Students and fans packed the stands, proudly wearing school colors and cheering on their team in a spirited display of school pride.

Superintendent of Schools Jessica Schmettan praised the collaborative effort behind the success of this year’s events. “Homecoming is more than a game—it’s a celebration of our entire school community. We’re proud of the enthusiasm, participation, and unity shown by our students, staff, families, and neighbors.”

Click here to view the Port Jefferson School District Celebrates Spirit and Unity at Annual Homecoming Event slideshow.

Date Added: 10/14/2025

Edna Louise Spear Elementary School was thrilled to welcome a special visit from Theater Three, a local performing arts company in Port Jefferson. Pre-K through grade 3 students were treated to a powerful and interactive performance of Stand Up! Stand Out! The Bullying Project.

This engaging presentation used the magic of live theater—featuring colorful puppets, toe-tapping songs, and plenty of humor to address the serious topic of bullying in a way that was age-appropriate and meaningful for our youngest learners. The message of the performance was clear: Don't just stand by—stand up! Students learned the importance of speaking out, showing kindness, and supporting their peers when they see someone being bullied.

Following the performance, the cast led an interactive question and answer session, giving students the opportunity to reflect, ask questions, and discuss how they can apply what they learned in their own school and community.

“We are so grateful to Theater Three for delivering such an important message in a way that really resonated with our students,” said Principal Amy Laverty. “It’s never too early to start teaching empathy, courage, and the importance of standing up for what’s right.”

The Edna Louise Spear Elementary School remains committed to creating a safe and supportive learning environment, and partnerships with organizations like Theater Three help us bring that mission to life.

Date Added: 10/14/2025