Student Discovers New Species of Spider

Yes, you read that correctly!

Senior Gabrielle Ward discovered what is believed to be a new species of spider while conducting science research at Dowling College in December.

As part of Gabrielle’s science research, she was responsible for classifying all spiders that were found living in a gall taken from the burn zone of the Pine Barrens  and that is when she made the discovery. In order for the species to be accepted as “new” in the science world, Gabrielle and her mentor must publish a paper that details the characteristics of the new species. The entire process can take up to one year  and Gabrielle will be given the opportunity to name the new species once it is accepted.

Her discovery and science research experience will afford her increased opportunities at college next year.

Awesome work Gabrielle.

Tweeting

Follow me @Naglersnotions on Twitter

Visit from Senator Martins

On Wednesday Senator Martins met me at the Middle School to witness first hand our ipad initiative.  Last year his grant of $50,000 allowed us to purchase ipads for the entire Middle school this year.  As usual are students were incredibly impressive and articulate.  Below is a press release that his office submitted.

Senator Martins Visits Mineola Middle School as Students Use Technology to Learn

 The Mineola School District, thanks to the efforts of Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Nagler, the Board of Education, administrators and community, is on the cutting edge of employing technology as a effective tool for teaching and learning.

 Using grant funding obtained by Senator Jack M. Martins, the district purchased IPads for use in the classroom at Mineola Middle School to enhance the solid education students are already receiving. Recently, Senator Martins visited the middle school, meeting with Dr. Nagler and Principal Matt Gaven, to see how the IPads on being used.

 Senator Martins visited Mr. Luskoff’s seventh grade social studies class, where the senator was able to see firsthand how the students use IPads in the classroom to learn about American history by downloading content and participating in an interactive experience.

 “The Mineola School District is doing some wonderful things. The use of technology engages the students and students who are engaged, learn much more effectively. My compliments to the administration, board, staff and the students themselves for their efforts,” Senator Martins said.  

 While at Mineola Middle School, the school was being visited by some of the members of the Uniondale School District community who wanted to learn more about Mineola’s use of technology to possibly expand their own program. The representatives from Uniondale came away extremely impressed with the staff and students in Mineola.

Expand Pre-K??

I am trying to create a list serv of email contacts for parents that have children between birth and 4 years old that will be attending Mineola schools.  I need to gather data about possibly expanding our Pre-k program in September 2014.  Please spread the word- parents can e-mail me directly at mnagler@mineola.k12.ny.us

Strikers

Jackie Lusardi told me that “I better show up to her last bowling match”.  So on Wednesday I joined our Boys and Girls bowling teams at Sheridan lanes.  We have 3 all county bowlers this year.  Senior- Jackie Lusardi, Freshman sensation, Marissa Buonicontro and 8^th grader wonder- Anthony Macchietto.  The girls have qualified for the county tournament on February 2. Congratulations to both teams on a wonderful season

Read like a Rock Star

On Monday I was a guest of the District Council at the annual Presidents and Principals Dinner at the Crest Hollow Country Club.  This year was particularly noteworthy since the Jackson Ave PTA won the award for best PARP program.  The theme- “Read like a Rock Star” was coordinated by Trisha Medved.  She gets to go for back to back victories in a few weeks.  Special thanks to all of our wonderful parent volunteers- PTA rocks!

K-Joy teacher of the month

One of our Meadow Drive parents nominated Mrs. Andreuzzi (2^nd grade teacher) for K-Joy’s teacher of the month.  We need votes!!  Log on to http://www.kjoy.com/teacher-of-the-month.aspx  to cast your vote.  Go Mustangs!

Reggie Carter Night

We had a packed house on Friday night for Reggie Carter night.  Julianne Falotico and Brian Gaffney wore the “35” jersey.   The girls and boys won.  The boys jumped out to a quick led and Clarke was never able to get close.  In fact the entire fourth quarter was played by the second team and Clarke still couldn’t chip into the margin.  It was an electric night filled with fans and alumni. Great job by all those involved, particularly our Booster club parents!

Science Camp- Feedback Needed

Mrs. Burns and I are currently in discussions with CAMP Invention.  They are a company that organizes summer science camps in school districts. The program features four 90 minute science modules entitled Innovate, I can invent, Geo-Games and the Create program.  Camp can be delivered in either:

• A week long full day camp or
• Two weeks for half day

The program is open for children entering 1^st grade through 6^th grade.  If you register online by March 15^th the tuition is $220 – late registration is $245.  We are thinking of housing it at Jackson Avenue.  Parents would have to drop off and pick up as well as provide snack and lunch. (no lunch in the half day program)

Are you interested in this?  Would you enroll your child?  If so which set up-?  1 week all day or 2 weeks ½ day.  Are there certain weeks that are better than others?  We need a minimum of 35 students to run it and I am looking for some feedback as to whether we can get that many interested students.