September 2026 Board of Education Meeting Synopsis

At the September 7 Board of Education meeting, School Board President Michele Harriott opened the meeting and called for a moment of silence for the CI residents and New Yorkers whose lives were lost during the 9/11 attacks. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sharon A. Dungee gave a synopsis of the first day of school and showed images of students returning to each of the district’s schools. Dr. Dungee said that school uniforms, while not required, are encouraged and noted that a high number of students from Morrow Elementary School come to school dressed in accordance with the uniform dress code.

Central Islip High School student Katheryne Guzman was recognized for her artwork, which will be on display in the U.S. Capitol for the next year. She received congratulatory flowers from Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sharon A. Dungee and was presented with a certificate from Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter by Deputy Superintendent Matthew Matera. She was also congratulated for her achievement by Central Islip High School Principal Eric Haruthunian.

Ex officio student school board members Camile Barzola and Denys Hernandez Mena gave their report on the first week of school. They reported on ninth-grade orientation, Parent-Teacher Night and the school’s Club Fair.

Extended School Year (ESY) Principal Mrs. Rebecca Garcia gave a report on this year’s ESY program, in which 126 students participated in a structured, well-organized learning environment. The special needs life skills students participated in a wide array of activities, including core skills, OT/PT, speech, gym, yoga, science, art, embedded physical education activities and Fun Food Fridays. Students also took field trips to the Dollar Store and CI Civic Council. Mrs. Garcia also acknowledged her staff, as well as the Board of Education and administration, for their support.

Mrs. Tracy Rentz offered her report on the Summer Enrichment Program, where this year’s theme was STEAM Safari. Mrs. Rentz said there was strong parental involvement. Students participated in a series of building activities, including safari jeeps and a competition to see which class could build the tallest giraffe. Ms. Amy Prince’s class topped the list. Students enjoyed a safari roller coaster, explored drones and Ozobots, and even participated in the self-reflection game “ABC’s of ME.”

Mrs. Harriott acknowledged News 12 and its partners, Optimum, Warner Bros. Discovery, who were on hand at Central Islip High School to give away 500 backpacks filled with school supplies. She also acknowledged the NAACP, which generously provided school supplies and backpacks.

The next Board of Education meeting is Monday, October 5, at 7:30 p.m. in the Alfano School multipurpose room.