Cayuga Elementary School fourth grader Jase Herrschaft received an honorable mention in Usdan’s Uniquely U Scholarship program, earning half tuition to the Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts. This award is valued at nearly $3,000.

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts brings together students to collaborate and develop their skills in the fields of the fine arts. The Uniquely U Scholarship Program celebrates creativity and self-expression and invites students from ages 7 to 18 to apply.

Date Added: 4/18/2024

A Cayuga Elementary School student and staff member were honored for their life-saving efforts by the Sachem Central School District Board of Education and administration. Last week, second grader Olivia choked on her food during lunch. Her friend Kendall noticed and sprang into action by getting a nearby adult. Cayuga’s head custodian Mike Horry administered the Heimlich Maneuver on Olivia and was able to dislodge the food stuck in her throat. Kendall and Mr. Horry were hailed heroes for their quick-thinking during the incident.

“It not only underscores the importance of our first aid training for choking but also highlights the courage that is necessary to step in and apply that training in the moment,” said Principal Matt Wells. “I’m very thankful to these folks for saving this little girl’s life.”

Olivia thanked her fellow second grade friend and Mr. Horry during the April 16 Sachem Board of Education meeting.

“I want to say a big thank you for saving my life and not all superheroes wear capes. I love you.”

News 12 highlighted the heroic actions of Mr. Horry and Kendall in a story that can be viewed at the following link: https://longisland.news12.com/not-all-superheroes-wear-capes-lake-grove-elementary-student-thanks-classmate-and-custodian-that-saved-her-from-choking 

Date Added: 4/17/2024

On April 5, fourth graders at Cayuga Elementary School learned all about solar eclipses ahead of the natural phenomenon. Under the guidance of their teachers, Ms. Rosenman, Ms. DiPalma and Mrs. Dalton, students participated in a series of engaging activities designed to deepen their understanding of this celestial event.

Students first connected with Dr. Joel S. Schuman, MD, FACS, via Zoom. Dr. Schuman is vice chair for research innovation and co-director of the Glaucoma Service. He shared valuable insights on eye protection during solar eclipses and patiently answered the students' questions, fostering a sense of scientific curiosity and safety awareness.

Following the informative session, students crafted informational posters about solar eclipses to depict the phenomenon itself while also providing tips on how to safely observe it. Students then showcased their dramatic talents with a performance of “The Eclipse Party Disaster,” a play adapted from Storyworks. The activity reinforced the fourth graders’ understanding of the scientific concepts surrounding eclipses.

To refuel before the final activity of the day, students enjoyed eclipse-themed snacks including Space Dunk Oreos, Cosmic Brownies and Capri Sun. The fourth graders then constructed eclipse models using cardstock and brad fasteners. The models demonstrated the alignment of the sun, Earth and moon. Throughout the activities, students were enthusiastic and engaged, fostering a love of learning and discovery.

Click here to view the photo slideshow.

Date Added: 4/12/2024

Cayuga Elementary School students are hitting the lanes during the bowling unit in physical education classes. Each grade level has been practicing their bowling skills and scorekeeping during class. During the final weeks of the unit, the Cayuga gymnasium turns into “disco bowling” lanes – complete with lights, music and neon accessories.

“We have two weeks that the lights stay on, we get them used to their jobs in their lanes, their rotation and scoring,” said physical education teacher Amanda Stallone. “As soon as the lights turn off, we make it a big countdown and the music comes on. Their reaction makes it all worth it.”

For the first time this year, teachers at Cayuga used PVC pipes to construct the ball returns.

“I’ve been to a lot of conferences for physical education in New York State and this has been a theme for a long time, and we wanted to bring it here,” Stallone said. “We’re the first ones that thought of the ball returners for the bowling lane, so it makes it a little bit more real.”

At the end of the unit, students offered feedback of how to improve the disco bowling experience in the future.

“Every year it gets bigger and better. More lights, more neon stuff. We do this for our fun, and the kids’ fun too,” Stallone said.

Click here to view this video on YouTube

Date Added: 4/8/2024