Skip to main content

Oldfield Middle School

Each Child. Each Day. One Harborfields Family.

Dr. Manning's 5-Minute Weekly Update

Posted Date: 11/09/25 (10:00 AM)

Dr. Manning's 5-Minute Weekly Update | November 9, 2025
 

Superintendent's Message
 
I was honored to attend the WDPS Veterans Parade, where I had the opportunity to reunite with my former student and 2013 HF graduate, Morgan Lange.  Morgan attended the U.S. Naval Academy and recently finished her deployment.  Thank you for your service, Morgan! 
  
Click on any of the pictures in this newsletter for more information. 

Celebrating Our Veterans!

This week, we come together as a nation to honor the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country with courage, dedication, and sacrifice. Veterans Day is a time to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy and to express our gratitude to those who have defended them.


Here in Harborfields, we are fortunate to have many veterans among our families, staff, and community members. Their service reminds us of the values we hold dear, including commitment, integrity, and selflessness. On behalf of the Harborfields Central School District, I extend my deepest thanks to all who have worn our nation’s uniform and to the families who have supported them.


As our students participate in classroom lessons and school ceremonies this week and next, may we all take a moment to reflect on the significance of their service and the example they set for future generations. Thank you to our veterans for your enduring contributions to our community and our country.


Click on the picture below to see highlights from the Veterans Parade at WDPS and turn up the volume!



Focus on Community - HF Football

The Harborfields Football Program joined other local football teams for the Fourth Annual Football Food Drive, collecting food donations to support local families in need. This effort is part of the NYS Public High School Athletic Association’s Community Service Challenge! Click the picture below to read more about how these student-athletes are tackling hunger through teamwork and heart. Way to go, Tornadoes!


Please Help - Thanksgiving Food Drive 

Each of our schools are collecting food for HACO to distribute to those in need. The collection runs through Tuesday, November 18th.  Please contact your child’s teacher or principal if you have any questions. Thank you in advance for your support of families in need. 


Honoring Ms. Leonard - Viola Project Gala

I had the privilege of joining our staff and community at the Viola Project Gala, where OMS Social Worker, Ms. Kirsten Leonard, was one of the honorees.  Ms. Leonard was recognized for her outstanding service to students and families in need in the Harborfields community.  You can click on the picture below to learn more about the Viola Project, including how you can support their efforts to combat hunger.  



A Celebration of Teaching and Learning
Harborfields educators came together for a day of learning, collaboration, and inspiration during our November Superintendent’s Conference Day. Staff participated in teacher-led professional development, grade-level collaboration, and planning sessions designed to strengthen instructional practices and enhance student experiences. A big thank-you to all of our educators for your continued commitment to growth, innovation, and excellence for our students!


Additionally, we welcomed back Carl Hooker, who led two engaging and interactive sessions on Artificial Intelligence in education. His sessions explored the ethical implications of AI and how its thoughtful integration can foster deeper learning and creativity in the classroom. He also presented to parents and guardians the night before Superintendent’s Conference Day, helping them to understand the impact of AI on learning and how it can equip students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in an AI-driven future. 



Reminder - Schools Closed on Tuesday, November 11 

This is a gentle reminder that all schools will be closed on Tuesday, November 11, in observance of Veterans Day, as indicated on the school calendar. 


Here are some of my favorite moments from this past week:

Harborfields High School

Ms. Cal and Ms Carnaxide brought history to life thanks to the Huntington Arts Council Discovery Chest. Students explored African artifacts and musical instruments as they learned about many different African cultures. Thank you to both teachers and the Huntington Arts Council for bringing this hands-on experience to our students. 

 


Oldfield Middle School

Local veterans stopped by OMS for their annual Veterans Day visit. They spoke with 8th-grade social studies classes about their experiences defending our great nation. We appreciate your service and sacrifice more than we can say.

 

Thomas J. Lahey Elementary School
 

Mrs. Kalish and Ms. Cleary‘s fifth-grade students worked collaboratively on determining types of conflicts and how to solve them! This exercise led to great group discussions and perspectives!

 


Washington Drive Primary School

More than 40 veterans attended a special Veterans Day celebration. Students cheered, clapped, and waved as they paraded past the honored guests, dressed in red, white, and blue for a patriotic touch! They colored pictures and cards, decorated the Hall of Heroes with beautiful personal stories, and even teamed up with Mr. Acquaviva to sing songs. A heartfelt thank you to Ms. Chmura and the entire Washington Drive community for making this celebration so special!

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS AND SHOUTOUTS


Congratulations - Youth Leadership Recognition!


Harborfields High School students Yoselin Benitez Almendares and Vincenza Czekaj were selected to participate in the Long Island Regional Puerto Rican/Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute (PRHYLI). This prestigious program provides Hispanic/Latino high school juniors and seniors with firsthand insight into state government while developing their leadership, advocacy and civic engagement skills. This is the first year that Harborfields students have submitted applications for the institute, so it is very exciting that they have been selected!

 

 

Congratulations - Athletes Heading to States!

Ava Vandor broke her own record to capture her second consecutive Suffolk County Diving Championship! She will go on to represent Harborfields and Section XI at the State Championships in Rochester on November 21!

Sayla Fives ran an outstanding race, earning second place at the Section XI Class B Championships! She will represent Harborfields and Section XI at the State Championships next weekend.

Congratulations to Ava and Sayla! We are so proud of all you’ve accomplished and wish you the best as you continue to compete!

Way to go, Tornadoes!

 


Each Child. Each Day. One Harborfields Family