AP World History students from Sachem East High School recently traveled to New York City to enrich their understanding of key historical topics studied throughout the year. Accompanied by teachers Mrs. Gearns and Mr. Jannace, the group embarked on an immersive learning experience that brought history to life in meaningful and memorable ways.

The day began with a visit to “Anne Frank: The Exhibition” at the Center for Jewish History. This powerful exhibit offered students the chance to connect with Anne Frank’s story not just as a Holocaust victim, but as a writer, a young girl and a symbol of resilience. Students toured a life-size recreation of the secret annex where the Frank family, the Van Pels family and Fritz Pfeffer hid during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. Modeled closely after the original in Amsterdam, the exhibition gave students a deeply personal and emotional perspective on the Holocaust.

Following the morning’s moving experience, the students enjoyed lunch outdoors in Central Park before heading to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. There, they participated in a curriculum-based photo scavenger hunt, searching for artwork and artifacts that aligned with the major units covered in their AP World History course. The creative and thoughtful responses impressed both teachers and chaperones – Mrs. Bongiorno, Mr. Cellini and Mrs. Melandro – who praised the students for their engagement, insight and respectful conduct throughout the trip.

The field trip provided students with opportunities to connect classroom learning to real-world contexts, deepening their understanding of global history through both reflection and exploration.

 

Date Added: 5/22/2025

Sachem High School East, Sagamore Middle School and Chippewa Elementary School once again demonstrated their commitment to service and community this spring by raising a remarkable $11,478 in support of the ALS Ride for Life. The fundraising initiative was led by Sachem East’s Student Government, under the guidance of advisers Mr. Gallo and Mr. Jannace, with strong support from Sagamore and Chippewa.

This year’s event was held in honor of ALS patient advocate David Phillips, who participated in the event by making the journey in his scooter, cheered on by crowds of students, families and staff. The annual tradition included a symbolic walk from Sachem East to Sagamore Middle School and then to Chippewa Elementary School, raising both awareness and funds for ALS research and patient care.

Sachem East raised $7,950, Sagamore contributed $3,128 and Chippewa added $400, bringing the districtwide total to $11,478. These efforts once again make Sachem East the largest single school donor to the ALS Ride for Life.

Over the years, Student Government at East, along with honor societies and dedicated families, have organized community walks, assemblies and popular fundraising events like dodgeball and basketball tournaments. Notably, Sachem East was the first group to return to the streets with the Ride for Life following the COVID-19 pandemic and previously coordinated the District’s only four-school Ride for Life.

The connection to the cause runs deep. Students first developed a close relationship with ALS Ride for Life Founder Chris Pendergast and continue to support the mission through ongoing collaboration with Christine Pendergast and Paul Weissman, who carry on his legacy.

Sachem’s continued efforts exemplify leadership, compassion and the power of youth activism. The District is proud of all involved for their dedication to making a difference in the fight to cure ALS.

Date Added: 5/22/2025

Sachem High School East senior Krish Malik has been named a recipient of the prestigious New York State Math Honor Society Scholarship. A standout student and leader, Krish plans to attend Stony Brook University this fall, where he will major in computer science.

As co-president of the Math Honor Society, Krish has played a key role in organizing events, planning future club activities and fostering teamwork among members. His leadership and commitment to academic excellence have made a lasting impact on both his peers and teachers.

Recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction, Krish has demonstrated exceptional problem-solving skills, intellectual curiosity and a strong work ethic throughout his academic career. His dedication to mathematics and passion for helping others make him a deserving recipient of this honor.

The Sachem community congratulates Krish on this outstanding achievement.

Date Added: 5/22/2025

On Friday, May 9, Sachem East hosted its fourth annual Freshman Class Field Trip to Top Golf, right in the heart of the Sachem community. The event drew over 150 students, making it a memorable and successful celebration of the Class of 2028’s first year in high school.

This exciting outing was organized with the help of Freshman Class Government officers Nathan Check, Howard Dickson, Abigail Erikson, Jordan Glad and Braden Grill, who worked diligently to bring the event to life.

More than just a fun day out, the trip offered freshmen a chance to relax, connect and celebrate their accomplishments as they wrapped up a milestone year. From friendly competition to shared laughs, the experience was a hole-in-one for building lasting memories and class camaraderie.

 

 

Date Added: 5/12/2025

At a recent Sachem Board of Education meeting, several talented high school students were recognized for their outstanding achievements in the visual arts.

Jacob Ihne of Sachem High School East earned a prestigious spot in the Long Island’s Best: Young Artists at the Heckscher Museum exhibition, joining just 44 students selected from over 500 submissions across the region.

Also from High School East, Isabella Rodriguez was celebrated for her role as the inaugural Teen Artist in Residence at the Sachem Public Library. Her collaboration with library staff led to the creation of a permanent mural in the library’s garden, inspired by Long Island’s natural beauty.

Several students also received top honors at the Bay Area Friends of the Fine Arts (BAFFA) Juried Invitational High School Student Art Exhibition:

* Liliana Cirello (HS East, Mrs. DelVallez): 2nd Place, Mixed Media.
* Kim Lee (HS North, Mr. Oswald): 1st Place, Photography.
* Jahzara Reyes (HS North, Mrs. Provini): 2nd Place, Painting.

A special spotlight was given to Leah Ratto, a senior at HS East, who not only took 1st Place in Painting but also swept all four of BAFFA’s major specialty awards:

* 2025 Olivia & Harlan Fischer 2nd Best in Show.
* 2025 Jacqueline C. Palmer Award.
* 2025 Bell Street Artists Scholarship.
* 2025 Women Sharing Art Scholarship.

These recognitions underscore the depth of artistic talent within Sachem schools and the district’s commitment to fostering creativity and excellence in the arts.

Date Added: 5/8/2025