On Friday, May 30, the eighth grade performing groups from Seneca and Sagamore middle schools traveled to compete in two separate music festivals: Trills and Thrills and Music in the Parks.

Seneca Middle School’s Chorus, Orchestra and Band performed at Francis T. Maloney High School in Meriden, Connecticut, where they were evaluated by judges on musicianship, tone, intonation, balance and performance technique. These are key elements of the students’ music education, and their dedication to scheduled lessons and consistent practice was evident throughout their performances.

The Seneca music department proudly announced that the 8th Grade Chorus received an Excellent rating at the Trills and Thrills Festival, while both the 8th Grade Orchestra and 8th Grade Band received Superior ratings for their performances.

At Music in the Parks, Sagamore Middle School’s Select Orchestra and Select Chorus earned second-place finishes, both with Excellent ratings. Two Select Chorus students, Aricelli Rincon and Riley Loevner, were honored as Outstanding Soloists for their vocal performances. The Sagamore 8th Grade Band earned a first-place finish with a Superior rating and was also awarded the Best Overall Band Trophy of the entire festival.

Following the competitions, both schools celebrated their achievements at Lake Compounce amusement park, where students, faculty and parent chaperones enjoyed rides and waterpark activities.

Congratulations to all the student musicians from Seneca and Sagamore on their outstanding accomplishments, which reflect their hard work, dedication and commitment to excellence in music.

Date Added: 6/16/2025

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

At Sagamore Middle School, Mrs. DiGiacinto’s algebra students are learning more than just math – they’re embracing the power of kindness. Throughout the year, the classes have gone “On the Road” with CBS correspondent Steve Hartman, diving into his Kindness 101 video series. These moving stories sparked meaningful conversations and inspired students to reflect on the impact of small, compassionate acts.

As a heartfelt extension of their work, a group of students collaborated to create a children’s book, “A Pocket Full of Kindness: Little Acts that Matter.” Each student chose a quality of kindness and brought it to life through original writing and illustrations. The book is dedicated to Grayson Danielski, a young boy courageously recovering from a brain tumor. Grayson’s parents, both Sachem graduates, served as a meaningful connection for the students, who wanted to honor his strength and show their support.

The project culminated in a joyful publishing party, where Grayson’s grandmother was presented with a copy of the book to share with him. The event was a powerful reminder that kindness, creativity and community go hand in hand.

Date Added: 5/13/2025