Summer in the Port Jefferson School District is in full swing with a dynamic lineup of summer athletic camps designed to engage and inspire students in kindergarten to eighth grade. Hosted by the District’s dedicated varsity coaches and supported by varsity student-athlete volunteers, the camps provide young athletes with the opportunity to develop their skills, stay active, and learn from some of the District’s top athletic role models.

So far, the District has proudly hosted the following camps:

* Soccer camp: 31 enthusiastic campers worked on footwork, strategy, and team play.

* Baseball camp: 29 young athletes practiced fielding, hitting, and game fundamentals.

*Lacrosse camp: 16 participants learned essential stick skills, advanced passing drills, and effective game tactics.

Each camp was led by Port Jefferson’s experienced varsity coaching staff, with support from high school athletes who volunteered their time as camp counselors, fostering a strong sense of mentorship and community. The District also hosted a tennis camp, where seven campers enjoyed personalized instruction and rally play, and a multi-sport camp, where students participated in a variety of sports and games designed to promote physical literacy and teamwork.

The summer athletics program continues with track camp, held on Wednesday nights through August 13, giving students ongoing opportunities to develop running technique, speed, and endurance.

Upcoming camps include:

* Girls volleyball camp: July 21-24

* Basketball camp: August 4-7

* Multi-sport camp 2: August 4-7

* Football camp: August 11-14

* Cheerleading camp: August 18-21

“These camps are a highlight of our summer programming,” Athletics Director Adam Sherrard said. “They give our younger students a chance to learn new skills in a fun and supportive environment, while our varsity athletes get to give back to the community in a meaningful way.”

The District encourages families to explore additional opportunities by visiting the Athletics page on the Port Jefferson School District website, where camp fliers and registration information are available. Port Jefferson’s summer athletic camps continue to foster a culture of growth, leadership, and school pride—on and off the field.

Click here to view the Port Jefferson School District Kicks Off Summer Athletic Camp slideshow.

Date Added: 7/22/2025

Earl L. Vandermeulen High School has been recognized as a School of Excellence by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) for the 2024-2025 school year—an honor that highlights the school's outstanding commitment to academic achievement among its student-athletes.

“The School of Excellence Award is a testament to our students’ ability to succeed in the classroom and on the field,” said Principal John Ruggero. “We are incredibly proud of their commitment to upholding the high standards of our school and the values of sportsmanship and scholarship.”

The School of Excellence designation is awarded to schools where at least 75% of varsity teams earn the NYSPHSAA Scholar-Athlete Team Award, recognizing teams that achieve a cumulative GPA of 90 or above. Earl L. Vandermeulen High School's accomplishment reflects the hard work, dedication, and discipline of its student-athletes, coaches, and academic staff in fostering a culture that values both athletic and academic success.

“The balance our students strike between academics and athletics is remarkable,” said Athletic Director Adam Sherrard. “This award recognizes not only their achievements but also the supportive environment created by our coaches, teachers, and families.”

Earl L. Vandermeulen High School’s recognition as a 2024-2025 NYSPHSAA School of Excellence underscores the school’s continued commitment to nurturing student leaders who thrive in all aspects of their high school experience.

Date Added: 7/22/2025

From left to right: Port Jefferson Board of Education Vice President Tracy Zamek and President Ellen Boehm.

Two members of the Port Jefferson Union Free School District’s Board of Education recently received prestigious awards honoring their commitment to community, leadership, and student wellbeing. Board president Ellen Boehm was nominated for Assembly District Four’s Woman of Distinction Award and vice president Tracy Zamek was named an honoree at the Long Island School Hero Awards.

Board of Education president Ellen Boehm was recognized for leadership and service to the community. Ms, Boehm is deeply respected throughout the Port Jefferson community, inspiring others through both her actions and her integrity. She joined a distinguished group of nominees that were celebrated at an afternoon tea in May. Board’s vice president Tracy Zamek’s award was presented by the Long Island Coalition Against Bullying (LICAB) and celebrates educators and school staff who champion safe, inclusive environments. Ms. Zamek’s commitment to fostering a culture of respect and student advocacy has made her a trusted leader whose influence resonates well beyond school walls. She will be honored alongside other recipients in a ceremony this October. 

“The members of the Port Jefferson Board of Education work tirelessly to create a strong, student-focused community in our schools,” said Port Jefferson superintendent of schools Jessica Schmettan. “Both Ms. Boehm and Ms. Zamek are incredibly deserving of these recognitions and I am so appreciative of the opportunity to work with them to make our District run.” 

Port Jefferson Middle School’s Moving Up Ceremony

Port Jefferson Middle School’s Moving Up Ceremony

Edna Louise Spear Elementary School’s Moving Up Ceremony

Edna Louise Spear Elementary School’s Moving Up Ceremony

The Port Jefferson Union Free School District recently celebrated two moving up ceremonies to celebrate fifth- and- eighth-grade students moving on to higher levels. Edna Louise Spear Elementary School and Port Jefferson Middle School honored students for taking the next steps in their educational journeys.

The ceremonies highlighted academic achievement; students were honored with certificates marking the end of their journeys in elementary and middle school. Students gave speeches; performed musical numbers; and were presented with awards in front of their family, friends, classmates, teachers, and District administration. Both celebrations were held in the Earl L. Vandermeulen High School Auditorium.

“The entire Port Jefferson community feels pride watching our students move up in their academic journeys,” said Port Jefferson Superintendent of Schools Jessica Schmettan. “I am so excited to see what they might accomplish during the rest of their time in Port Jefferson schools and beyond.”