John F. Kennedy Middle School

500 Broadway,
Bethpage, NY 11714

PRINCIPAL: Mr. Kevin Fullerton

ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL: Mr. Nicholas Jantz

DEANS: Brian Hennen and Jill Bennardo

Main Office:
516-644-4200 (Phone)
516-937-0540 (Fax)

In the News

21st Century Valentine's Day Cookies

On Thursday February 12th, a group of JFK students met with Ms. Maloney, Ms. Pizzuto, and Ms. Okita. Students worked in groups to create Valentine's Day treats for loved ones. They worked as a team to bake chocolate chip and m&m cookies. They also created heart lollipops with candy canes, chocolate, and sprinkles. Students were able to wrap their treats in bags and ribbon as gifts for friends and family.

Central Island Nursing Home

On February 14, the JFK Kiwanis Builders Club visited the Central Island Nursing Home in Plainview, where they played Bingo with the residents and the presented them with homemade Valentine's Day cards. It was a very heartwarming experience.

21st Century Super Bowl Math

On January 28th, a group of JFK students met with Ms. Maloney and Ms. Okita to celebrate the upcoming Super Bowl game. Students were engaged in a scavenger hunt activity where they were able to use their chromebooks to find out some trivia about the Super Bowl games. They found out facts such as the cost of the famous Super Bowl ring, the cost of a commercial, the geometric shape of a football, and how many tickets each player gets for their families. They also practiced math skills by calculating the perimeter and area of the field and solving equations to find out the cost for a NY family to attend the game in Arizona. Students had a great time!

MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE

Museum of the Moving Image is the country's only museum dedicated to the art, history, technique, and technology of the moving image in all its forms. Mrs. Saur and Mrs. Curran led a group of J.F.K. students who explored a wide range of subjects, from nineteenth century optical toys to the latest in digital art, through kid-friendly interactive exhibitions. Students also participated in a video game design workshop using programming software to modify a prototype for the very first home video game system!

JFK Boys Basketball Trip to MSG

On Sunday January 25th, the JFK Boys Basketball team trekked into Madison Square Garden to watch St. John's take on Duke. All in attendance witnessed NCAA Basketball history when Duke Head Coach Mike Krzyzewski earned his 1,000 career win. What a great experience for the boys! A big thanks to Coach Suprenant, Mr. Fisher and Mr. Zito.

Diwan Indian Restaurant

On a cold, slushy Saturday, Mrs Klein and Mrs. Elmasry met 9 students for an adventure in dining at Diwan Indian Buffet in Hicksville. We all tried new foods: Nan, goat, lentils, eggplant and more in exotic sauces. Our bellies were full and we wore huge smiles on our faces.

Ronald McDonald House Visit

On December 22, eight students from Student Council visited the Ronald McDonald House in New Hyde Park. The students baked as part of the “Helping Hands” program. The group also donated over 20 boxes of toys, games, dolls and stuffed animals they had collected from the holiday toy drive at JFK. The students at JFK and staff raised $1800 through various fundraising activities and presented the house with their generous donation. Ronald McDonald House was very touched by the amount of donations and support they received this year from JFK. Thanks to all that donated!

Wrapping Gifts with Cheer

Mrs. Keller's and Mrs. Pizzuto's class has been hard at work spreading holiday cheer by voluntarily wrapping holiday gifts. Not only do the gifts look beautiful, but they also deliver! Great job students and a big thanks to Mrs. Keller and Mrs. Pizzuto.

Winter Concert

On December 8th, 10th and 15th JFK held its annual three part Winter Concert Series. Each date included a different grade and performances by the band, chorus and orchestra. Great job by all the talented students and their dedicated teachers-Mr. Kay, Mr. Coscette and Mrs. Cooper. Next up, the Spring series!

National Circus

National Circus Project is the premier interactive circus arts program. It included a spectacular circus performance. And then 2 workshops for the students. They were able to try juggling, plate-spinning, balancing, devil sticks and diabolos. There were many thrills and laughs!

Hour of Code

On Thursday 12/11/2014 Mr. Levy and 30 students from JFK joined 100 Million students around the world to complete the "Hour of Code." The Code Organization has dubbed the event "The largest learning event in history." During the "Hour of Code", students learned the foundations of computer programming through fun engaging online games and tutorials. A big thank you to Mackenzie Pech from BHS for dropping by to assist with the festivities!

21st Century trip to the National September 11 Memorial and Museum

On Saturday, December 6th, a group of 38 students from Bethpage H.S. and J.F.K. Middle School attended a 21st Century trip to the National September 11 Memorial and Museum in New York City. Although it was a somewhat somber and emotional day for the students, they were able to gain a greater understanding towards the tragic events which occurred on September 11, 2001. The students were able to see the ‘Footprints’ of the North and South towers and the Memorial identifying the nearly 3000 innocent people whose lives were lost on 9/11. They saw the spectacular ‘Freedom Tower’ and gained a better understanding related to its relevance and symbolism signifying the freedoms and values that we as Americans are afforded. In addition, we took an extensive tour of the 9/11 Museum. The museum was a central focus of the trip. The exhibits and displays within the museum, gave our students a historical and educational perspective of the events in and around September 11. The students also spent an extensive period of time within the ‘Memorial’ section of the museum, where they viewed photographs and researched information provided for each victim. Mr. Fenster directed and facilitated this trip. Ms. DelVecchio, Ms. DeTillio, and Ms. Bellairs accompanied our students during our visit.

Bread Art

Mrs. Elmasry taught a fun hands-on lesson on Bread Art. Each participant had theirs hands dirty mixing, kneading, decorating and or cleaning. After 2 hours, they left with their bellies full and dough for a future use.

21st Century: Dog Treats

This month a number JFK students participated in a 21st Century class where they learned how to make homemade dog treats. The class was run by JFK's Family Arts and Consumer Science teacher Mrs. Norton. The treats were later donated to the Town of Islip Animal Shelter. Great job students and a big thank you to Mrs. Norton!

Ronald McDonald House

On Monday, November 24th JFK dropped off hundreds of pounds of donated canned and non-perishable foods to the Ronald McDonald House in New Hyde Park. The food was collected by Student Council in homerooms throughout the month of November. A big thanks to our generous students, Ms. Smith and Ms. Greco for organizing this amazing event.

Cupstacking

Congratulations and thanks to all who participated in the 201 STACK UP! More than 3,000 schools and organizations representing 36 countries from around the world registered for this year's colossal sport stacking event held on Guinness World Records Day, November 13th. The total number of stackers worldwide was 579,454.

JFK Middle School has participated in this event for the past 4 years. Students, with the help of Mrs. Deborah Muller and Ms. Hanai Okita, enjoyed a fun filled afternoon of stacking. The highlight of our record breaking day was building our Cup pyramid with this year's special commemorative cup at the top.

Genius Bar Opens

A Genius Bar officially opened its doors on Nov. 17 at JFK MS. The student-run ‘bar’ will operate two days a week during lunch periods for students with any Google Chromebook issues to seek help and assistance from their professional peers. Students who work the Genius Bar had to undergo an extensive application and interview process and will receive 21st Century credit for their leadership.

JFK Library Cozy Corner Has a New Name

To bring some new life to the bean bag area of the JFK Library for the new school year, a contest was held to rename the popular spot. Students were able to submit their responses via an online Google survey or in person in the library. Many ideas were submitted and the library staff narrowed it to three choices. Over two hundred and fifty students voted using chromebooks during lunch periods. When the last vote was tallied, the winner was Lazy Lounge! The name was suggested by Jenna DeStefano, Owen Maggio, Jennifer Petersen and Nikhil Sanghvi.

2014 Long Island String Festival Association

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21st Century: United Nations Day

On October 20th and October 27th, students met after school with Ms. Maloney and Ms. Okita to celebrate United Nations Day. Students learned about the United Nations and researched the members through the UN website. Each student chose a country and researched it's history in the organization, their ambassador, and contributions that the country has made. They discussed civil rights, peacekeeping, and current issues. All the students did a great job and their posters will be on display in the building!

21st Century: Dictionary Day

On October 16th, students met with Ms. Maloney and Ms. Okita to celebrate National Dictionary Day. Students worked in teams to complete a scavenger hunt through the dictionary. They used a google form with questions such as "Find the first word in the "I" section that is a conjunction" and "locate the first verb in the "s" section that has three syllables". Students practiced using a dictionary, parts of speech, using guide words, syllables, and alphabetical order. The race was close but the winner was 8th grader, Kyle Saugy.

21st Century: Halloween Candy Bowls

On October 21st and October 28th, students met with Mrs. Pizzuto, Ms. Walsh, Ms. Okita, and Ms. Maloney. Students brought bowls from home as molds and used brown paper, newspaper and mod podge to create their own candy bowls. They used acrylic paint to design their bowls in Halloween designs. Students had a great time and showed just how creative they could be. Happy Halloween to all!

Halloween Party

On Friday, October 24th JFK hosted the 2014 Halloween Spooktacular. Over 300 students partied the night away with friends while eating candy and participating in the annual costume contest. A big thanks to Student Council who helped make this night a blast!

Pen Pal Reunion

On Friday, October 24th JFK Pen Pals were reunited in the Auditorium. Last year, in an effort to ease their transition to middle school, the 5th graders were "buddied" up with upperclassmen from JFK. At the reunion, the students discussed their experiences thus far and participated in various ice breaker activities. A great big thanks to the Counseling Center for making this event possible!

Kid Wind Challenge:

On Wednesday, October 29th The Cradle of Aviation Museum hosted the Kidwind Challenge. The competition is based on students creating the most efficient, elegant, and highly functional turbine that produces clean and sustainable energy. Our students placed 3rd out of 47 teams! Great job JFK and a big thanks to Mr. Ravener and Mr. Perez.

Breakfast Now Available for Students and Staff

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JFK Students travel to Kramer Lane

On Thursday, October 16th students from JFK traveled to Kramer Lane to teach the elementary students about the how to fight bullying by becoming "Upstanders". The lesson included a video, class discussion and a great hands on activity!

Project Adventure

On Tuesday, September 23rd and Wednesday, September 24th students of JFK Middle School took part Nassau BOCES Project Adventure. The students were put through numerous challenging activities that help build trust, character and leadership.

Preamble Challenge

On Wednesday, September 17th the students of JFK celebrated US Constitution Day in style with the 9th Annual Preamble Challenge. Students from all grades were timed to see who could recite the Preamble of the Constitution the fastest. The three grade level winners were: Soham Maiti (8), Elizabeth Freedman (7) and Valenni Passaro (6). A big thanks to Mr. Fullerton and all of the participants!

Photo Gallery - Winnersy

A.J. Vita, All-County Jazz Band

A.J. was the only guitarist to be selected for the Division 3 All-County Jazz Band. Only 19 students are selected into the Jazz Band among all of the 7th & 8th graders in Nassau County. Congratulations A.J.!

Rocket Launch!

On Friday October 10th, Mr. Michels and his 3rd period class launched the rockets that were donated by the Bethpage Educational Foundation. Great job students and thanks again to the Foundation!

JFK Historical Marker Unveiled

21st Century Sailing aboard the “Christeen”

On September 23rd students from both the middle and high school sailed aboard a nationally registered historical landmark. The weather was spectacular and Oyster Bay harbor was breathtaking. Participants were educated about the local history, President Theodore Roosevelt, the Spanish-American war and local marine life. As a special treat, our students had the unbelievable opportunity to see a wild seal. Harbor seals are usually not seen in the area until the winter. This one arrived early to gorge itself on the abundant supply of fish and to claim a choice basking rock. Our students had a memorable afternoon experiencing a truly unique corner of the world so close to home.

JFK Rocket Building

School Store

Mrs. Keller's and Pizzuto's class worked very hard preparing the inventory for the upcoming grand re-opening of the JFK School Store.

Follow the JFK Library with Remind

The JFK Library is using a free app called Remind to share information such as the arrival of new books, upcoming activities and events as well as other library/reading related news. Remind is available for download for both iOS and Android devices as well as email-friendly. Both parents and students are encouraged to sign up. Further instructions can be found by clicking the link below.

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Activity Fair

After school on Wednesday September 17th, the JFK cafeteria was transformed into the 2014-2015 Activity Fair. The jam packed event allowed advisors and students to discuss the extra-curricular clubs that are being offered during this school year.

Summer Reading

Students eagerly review for the upcoming Summer Reading Quiz. Some of the titles included: "Lunch Money", "Al Capone Does My Shirts" and "Among Friends".

Bethpage Welcomes New Staff

Welcome to the newest staff members in Bethpage! An orientation day was organized by Ms. Lavelle and featured a bus tour of Bethpage with Mr. Clark as the tour guide and it included a stop at Cablevision. We wish all our new teachers and teaching assistants the best as they join a terrific faculty and staff!

Science Fair

The 2014 JFK Science Symposium was a great success. Students proudly presented their research projects to their peers, families, high school research students and faculty. We are very proud of our students and happy that a good time was had by all.

Long Island Math Fair at Hofstra University

On May 2, 2014, seventh grader SOHAM MAITI represented JFK at the Long Island Math Fair at Hofstra University under the guidance of Mrs. Gerry O'Sullivan, Ms. Leslie Green, and Director of Mathematics Mr. John Titolo. Soham's research on the mathematical applications of E=MC2 earned him a Gold Medal and the respect and admiration of the entire JFK community. Congratulations, Soham! We're proud of you!

High Note Musical Festival

The J.F.K. Middle School Senior Orchestra attended the High Note Music Festival in Allentown, PA on June 6, 2014. The orchestra placed first in their division and received a "Superior" rating, the highest possible. After the festival, the students spent the rest of the day at Dorney Park.

N.Y.S. Supreme Court Building Trip

On May 21, 2014, a select group of 24 Academic Explorations students were accompanied by Ms. Saur and Ms. Moquin to the N.Y.S. Supreme Court Building located in Mineola, NY. The students observed two civil trials in session, and had the fortuitous opportunity to participate in a private question and answer session with Justice Thomas Fieneman.

Ronald McDonald House

The Ronald McDonald House of Long Island opened its doors in New Hyde Park in 1986. It offers a “home away-from home” for almost 1000 families a year. JFK students and staff chose RMDH as the charity of choice for our year-long fundraising efforts. In December, eight members of student council chaperoned by their advisors participated in the Little Hands Baking Program. The JFK family also presented a check for $1,400 from numerous fundraising efforts, as well as some toys for the children of the house donated by local families.

On May 29th, nine faculty members visited the RMDH with boxes of linens and various cleaning supplies from the house wish list. All the supplies were collected as part of the student council “Spring Cleaning” drive. As always, the generosity of our Bethpage families overwhelmed and touched the staff at the house. JFK staff stayed to cook dinner for the Meals from the Heart Program. Sixty residents came home to a lavish BBQ prepared with love and well wishes.

Photo Gallery

Memorial Day Parade

Bethpage gathered to honor those who sacrificed so much for our nation. Thanks to everyone who participated in this year’s Memorial Day Parade!

Democracy In Action

The Bethpage School District thanks everyone who participated in our annual Democracy in Action program. Our student performers were wonderful and their teachers and parents should be very proud! Thanks to the PTA for organizing the Book Sale and to those who contributed to the Great American Bake Sale (especially Mrs. Marcis). It was a terrific event!

Kid-Wind Wind Turbine Competition

Five JFK students participated in the New York Kid-Wind Wind Turbine competition at the Cradle of Aviation with Mr. Perez and Mr. Ravener. The students won first place (Geoffrey Shamah, Chris Shamah, Andrew Kayel) AND third place (Sabrina Johnson, Candace Haney) in the competition vs. other schools on Long Island. The students have participated in this competition for three consecutive years. They worked after-school - and on Saturdays - to build their wind turbines and create their presentation boards. The coaches were very proud of the students' efforts and how they presented their knowledge of wind turbines and wind power during the competition. High school students - Edwin Manj, Samantha Alaimo, Sarah Suazo, Jimmy Lang, and Tommy Lang - were also helpful in the development of the wind turbine models during their time at JFK.

Zeus Retires Debates

On Wednesday, May 21st, Zeus visited JFK for the 6th Annual Zeus Retires Debates. Zeus is retiring from being the leader of Mt. Olympus, but is not naming his successor. The gods, goddesses and heroes of Greece needed to persuade Zeus to select them. They made campaign posters, researched their own strengths and their opponents weaknesses. They memorized their speeches then debated in front of Zeus. A winner from each period was selected.

JFK Talent Show

On Friday May 16th JFK Middle School hosted its annual talent show. The show was hosted and directed by Mr. Scarola, Mr. Syrett and student host Marco Cunha. The show included 12 student acts and 2 teacher acts. First place went to Sydney Leary, 2nd to Edella Litvak, and 3rd to Grace Carney & Amanda O'Neill. This was truly a wonderful event to see students and teachers come together for an extraordinary evening.

In Honor of Earth Day

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Congratulations Ms. Smith!

Ms. Smith 7th grade Social Studies teacher was recognized as VFW Teacher of the Year. The ceremony was held at JFK Middle School during the Patriot’s Pen Essay Awards Ceremony. Ms. Smith is an incredibly talented teacher who is well deserving of this honor. JFK Middle School is proud of Ms. Smith.

JFK Goes to DC

Students in the Junior Honor Society had a great trip to our nation’s capital under the guidance of Ms. Mastellone! Everyone had a great time visiting the monuments and taking in all the sights!

High Ropes

On Sat. May 3,2014 12 Students tackled the 32 foot wall. They climbed with a level of challenge suited to his or her abilities and desires. They also did the flying squirrel to build upon the group skills and trust. It was a great trip!

21st Century Oyster Bay Beach Cleanup

Rainy skies gave way to beautiful sunshine as the Bethpage armada landed on the shores of Oyster Bay Harbor. An energetic group of Middle School and High School students of the Marine Science Club removed hundreds of pounds of debris from the shoreline. For many of the students it was their first time visiting Center Island and they were impressed by its elegant beauty and diversity of wildlife. Besides improving the environment our students learned about an endangered bird, the piping plover. This tiny bird lays its eggs directly on the sand without building a formal nest. Their strategy is camouflage, the coloring of their eggs mimics the sand. Several protective zones were established to prevent people from stepping on the eggs. The group also experienced ospreys, egrets, terns, herons, cormorants and a well-deserved B-B-Q.

Current News

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