Date Added: 10/4/2022

The South Country Central School District inaugurated a new social and emotional learning program, Second Step, that aims to create lasting bonds between Bellport High School student-athletes and third graders in the district’s elementary schools.

The program kicked off at Kreamer Street Elementary School on Sept. 23, where 19 Bellport High School football players and girls varsity soccer team members visited third graders for a full day of bonding and learning. Serving as role models, athletes shadowed the third graders and supported them in all aspects of their day, from lessons to assisting with academics and accompanying them to lunch.

Prior to the visit, all the student-athletes were trained in social and emotional learning techniques.

“Building relationships and supporting social-emotional learning is so important in the development of young students, and we felt we can help support both with this initiative,” said restorative practices facilitator Kai Watkins, who spearheaded the program along with Patrick Hayes, athletic director. He added, “The younger students look up to the seniors and the senior athletes, and the positive messages they send to the third graders will hopefully leave a lasting impact.”

The program will continue during the winter and spring sports seasons when athletes will take turns visiting third graders at Brookhaven and Verne W. Critz elementary schools.

Date Added: 10/03/2022

South Country Central School District Board of Education invites the community to attend a presentation regarding the district’s upcoming capital reserve vote on Wednesday, Oct. 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the District office, 189 Dunton Avenue, East Patchogue.

The vote, which is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 18, requires approval by South Country School District voters for use of the district's capital reserve fund, which was established by voter approval in May 2016. Proposed projects include security upgrades to camera and door access systems districtwide, replacement of handrails and interior doors at the high school, and replacement of the turf field (not the football field), which is near the end of its useful life. Paying for these projects through the capital reserve means there will be no cost to taxpayers and the district will receive reimbursement from New York State in the form of building aid for a portion of the project costs.

The vote will be held via paper ballot on Oct. 18 from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the Bellport Middle School gymnasium.

Date Added: 9/30/2022

Bellport High School senior Nicole Antos has been named to Newsday’s top 50 Long Island girls volleyball players list. Nicole was recognized for making 109 kills and 57 blocks last season and starting this season with 23 kills and 15 blocks over three games. The district congratulates Nicole on this athletic achievement.

Date Added: 9/29/2022

South Country Central School District Superintendent of Schools Antonio Santana invites the community to attend a Meet the Superintendent presentation on Thursday, Oct. 6 at 7 p.m. at Bellport Middle School, 35 Kreamer St., Bellport.

During the presentation, Mr. Santana will discuss his background and experiences, the district’s vision and current state of the schools, and the collaborative relationship between a school superintendent and a school board.

Date Added: 9/28/2022