District News

Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools announces the appointment of Dr. Lorraine Smyth as the Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources and Leadership Development, effective July 1, 2025. Her appointment was approved by the Board of Education at a special meeting on June 27, 2025.

“Dr. Smyth is an exceptional and transformative leader who has a proven track record of success in both human resources management and leadership development,” said Dr. Dina M. Anzalone, Incoming Superintendent of Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools. “Her remarkable tenure as principal of Franklin Early Childhood Center, combined with her HR expertise and experience as building leader and secretary of the Hewlett-Woodmere Administrative and Supervisory Association, uniquely positions her to mentor new administrators and bridge critical gaps in leadership development. Her intimate knowledge of our school community, understanding of negotiations and education law, and strong pedagogical foundation make her the perfect fit for what our District needs at this pivotal time to move us forward. This newly created position will allow her to align our talent strategies with long-term goals, cultivate an inclusive culture, and ensure every employee feels valued and supported. Her vision and
expertise will play a vital role in strengthening our staff, enhancing leadership capacity, and ultimately benefiting our students.”

Dr. Smyth has dedicated her career to serving children and their families. She has been a respected administrator for the District for the past 18 years, most recently as the beloved Principal of Franklin Early Childhood Center (2013-present). Dr. Smyth joined the District in 2007 as the Assistant Principal of Hewlett Elementary School. She began her career in education at Valley Stream #13 School District, serving as a teacher of kindergarten, second, and third grades from 1995-2007.

Dr. Smyth earned a Doctorate in Instructional Leadership from St. John’s University; a Professional Diploma in School District Administration from Stony Brook University; a Master of Science degree in Elementary Education: Reading Concentration and a Bachelor of Science degree in Education (N-6) from St. John’s University.

Dr. Smyth is a respected and long-standing member of numerous professional organizations, including the LEAD LI, the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, the National Association of Elementary Principals, the New York State Association of Early Childhood Educators, the Nassau County Principals Association, and the Tri-State Principal Consortium.

“I am eager to contribute my skills and experience in this new and exciting role for the District that has been my home for the past 18 years,” said Dr. Smyth. “I look forward to building upon my established relationships with our dedicated staff to foster a greater environment of collaboration and respect, while developing meaningful growth opportunities to allow all team members to reach their career goals. I believe that when the adults in a school district feel valued and supported, the positive impact benefits every child we serve.”

The District is currently conducting a nationwide search for another exceptional educator to serve as the Principal of Franklin Early Childhood Center.

G.W Hewlett High School proudly celebrated Commencement for the Class of 2025 on Thursday, June 26, at 6:30 PM at the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, Long Island University, CW Post Campus.

The evening began with the traditional processional to “Pomp and Circumstance,” performed by the Hewlett High School Graduation Band. Leading the Color Guard were Jayden Yochai and Matthew DeCicco, this year’s Female and Male Athletes of the Year. The audience stood together as Wesley Sreter, Student Council President, led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a stirring rendition of the National Anthem by senior members of the Concert Chorale.

Dr. Alexandra Greenberg, Principal, welcomed families, friends, and graduates and introduced the evening’s student speakers. Rachel Chen, Salutatorian, and Ava Morgan, Valedictorian, delivered heartfelt reflections on their time at Hewlett and hopes for the future. The ceremony also featured original poetry by Elana Ben-Ari, Class Poet Laureate.

Special remarks were shared by Mrs. Debra Sheinin, President of the Board of Education, and student leaders Wesley Sreter and Francesca Castro, Senior Class President. Honor Awards for Academic Excellence were presented in honor of Dr. Michael V. Santopolo, recognizing the academic achievements of the Valedictorian and Salutatorian.

Graduates were formally introduced by Mr. Thomas Naglieri and Ms. Samantha Mazzeo, and officially certified as the Class of 2025. Students tossed their caps high into the air - celebrating the end of one chapter and the exciting beginning of the next. 

Congratulations to the G.W. Hewlett High School Class of 2025!

Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools announces the appointment of Dr. Patrick Fogarty as the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction, and Innovation, effective August 1, 2025. Dr. Fogarty is succeeding Dr. Dina M. Anzalone, who will assume the
role of Superintendent of Schools on July 1, 2025. His appointment was approved by the Board
of Education at a special meeting on June 27, 2025.

“After an extensive and collaborative selection process, Dr. Fogarty emerged as the ideal candidate to serve this newly created role in our District,” said Dr. Dina M. Anzalone, Incoming Superintendent of Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools. “His documented ability to leverage data-driven decision making to inform curriculum practices, combined with his track record of designing and implementing curriculum innovations that yield outstanding student outcomes, positions him for success in Hewlett-Woodmere. Dr. Fogarty is a proven leader whose work has consistently fostered academic growth and enhanced college and career readiness. He understands the unique challenges and opportunities that exist when working with motivated students, dedicated staff, and actively involved parents. He will be an exceptional addition to our District Leadership Team.”

Dr. Fogarty has more than twenty years’ experience in education. He comes to Hewlett-Woodmere from Jericho Public Schools, where he served as the Assistant to the Superintendent for Technology, Grants, and Data (2024-2025) and the Director of Technology (2019-2024). He also served two additional Long Island school districts as the Director of Technology, Carle Place (2018-2019) and Valley Stream #30 (2015-2018).

Previously, Dr. Fogarty was an Implementation Team Leader for eSpark Learning in Manhattan (2014-2015); a Technology Coordinator for the Diocese of Brooklyn and Queens (2012-2014); and a Faculty Advisor (2010-2014) and Assistant Principal (2008-2014) at Xaverian High School in Brooklyn. He began his career as a teacher of English, film, and social studies for students in grades 5-12 at several schools in Brooklyn.

Dr. Fogarty earned a Doctor of Education degree from Johns Hopkins University; a School District Leader certification from the College of St. Rose; a Master of Science in Education and School Building Leader certificate from Fordham University; a Master of Arts in English from CUNY Brooklyn College; and a Bachelor of Arts in English from CUNY Hunter College. He is frequently called upon to serve as a guest presenter for the Northeast Innovation Forum, the Long Island Technology and Education Summit, the Enjoy Thinking New Jersey Conference, and many others. He is an Apple Distinguished Education and a Google Certified Trainer.

“I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to join the dedicated professionals at Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools. Together, we will foster innovation, strengthen curricular programs, and empower every student to thrive in a rapidly changing world,” said Dr. Fogarty. “My goal is to build on the District’s strong foundation by aligning curriculum and instruction with the skills our students need for success—both now and in the future. By embracing creativity, leveraging technology, and supporting educators, we can create dynamic learning experiences that inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and lifelong learning.”

On June 24, 2025, Woodmere Middle School proudly celebrated the graduation of its eighth-grade students in a ceremony filled with tradition, pride, and community spirit.

The event opened with a processional performed by the Seventh Grade Band under the direction of Mr. Jonathan Holford, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Vidhya Velayudhan and a moving rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner by the Eighth Grade Select Choir.

Principal John Andruszkiewicz welcomed students, families, and guests, followed by a speech from Student Council President Mariam Chikvanaia and a message from PTA Co-Presidents Syreeta Jackson and Etereya Savin. The program also included a special recognition of retiring staff members by students Mitchell Krasner and Jordan Yodowitz.

Superintendent Dr. Ralph Marino, Jr. shared words of encouragement before the presentation of awards by faculty members and the official distribution of certificates to the graduating class. The ceremony concluded with a recessional to Trumpet Voluntary by Jeremiah Clarke, as students proudly exited—ready to begin their next chapter at G.W. Hewlett High School.

Congratulations to the Woodmere Middle School Class of 2025!

On June 24, 2025, the Franklin Early Childhood Center held its annual Moving Up Ceremony, celebrating its first-grade students as they marked the completion of an important early chapter in their educational journey.

The program began with a cheerful processional, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and a performance of “America.” Principal Dr. Lorraine Smyth welcomed families and guests, and Superintendent Dr. Ralph Marino, Jr. offered warm remarks, congratulating students on their growth and accomplishments.

Students entered the ceremony wearing their graduation caps backwards, proudly displaying the letters FECC. Later, during the Turning of the Caps, students flipped their caps forward to reveal the name of their next school—Hewlett or Ogden Elementary. The ceremony featured joyful musical performances, and each first grader was introduced and greeted with applause from the audience.

PTA Co-Presidents Kristy Kung and Niomi Singh offered congratulations on behalf of the parent community, expressing appreciation for the partnership between families and Franklin.

The celebration concluded with a recessional to “We Go Together”—a fun, upbeat performance that sent Franklin’s first graders off dancing with smiles, laughter, and excitement for second grade.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025—rising second graders at Hewlett and Ogden Elementary Schools!

On June 23, 2025, Hewlett Elementary School held its annual graduation ceremony, celebrating the achievements and growth of its fifth-grade students as they prepare to move on to Woodmere Middle School. The ceremony began with a processional set to Pomp and Circumstance, followed by a warm welcome from Principal Mrs. Heather Sosnovsky. Special greetings were shared by Superintendent Dr. Ralph Marino, Jr. and Mrs. Reina Hall, recognizing the dedication of students, staff, and families throughout the year.

The program featured two moving choral presentations, including a medley of songs and a touching rendition of “Until We Meet Again,” accompanied by the talented HES 5th Grade Orchestra. Student Council President Issam Ahmed addressed the class with pride, and Dr. Shari Findling shared heartfelt wishes on behalf of the P.T.A. As part of the celebration, students Nicole Nosov and Leeya Usenko presented the Class Gift—a beautiful, collaborative mural that will be permanently displayed at HES, serving as a lasting reminder of the Class of 2025’s creativity and unity.

Principal Sosnovsky delivered the Commencement Address, reflecting on the accomplishments and bright futures of the graduates. Hewlett Elementary’s fifth-grade teachers and staff proudly announced each graduate, presented diplomas, and offered personal congratulations as students crossed the stage. The ceremony concluded with a joyful recessional to “The Hewlett Song,” performed by the HES 5th Grade Band Ensemble.
 

Congratulations to the Hewlett Elementary School Class of 2025! The District wishes each student continued success and happiness as they begin the next exciting chapter in their educational journey.

On June 23, Ogden Elementary School held its graduation ceremony, honoring the Class of 2025 with a joyful and heartfelt celebration.

The event began with a processional of graduates and a presentation of the colors, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and a performance of the national anthem. Superintendent Dr. Ralph Marino Jr. addressed the students and families as the guest speaker, offering words of encouragement for the journey ahead.

Principal Mrs. Nicola M. Lynch shared inspirational remarks, reminding students that this milestone marks the beginning of something new. A special musical performance by members of the Music Theatre Workshop added to the occasion’s uplifting spirit.

PTA leaders extended their fond wishes to the graduates, and students shared reflections, poetry, and parting words. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the graduates and musical performances, including the school’s alma mater and a spirited rendition of “We’re All in This Together.”

Congratulations to the Ogden Class of 2025—you did it! Check out the District Facebook page for more highlights of the ceremony.

Students from Woodmere Middle School and Hewlett High School demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication in world language learning by participating in the National Language Exams in Spanish, French, and Italian. Their impressive results reflect a strong commitment to academic excellence and global citizenship.

Woodmere Middle School Highlights

Eighth grade World Language students at WMS had the opportunity to showcase their knowledge and proficiency through the National Language Exams. Many students received national recognition for their performance:

• National French Exam
  Platinum Medal: Shani Halimi – This is the highest honor in Le Grand Concours, awarded to students who score in the top 0.01% nationwide.

• National Italian Exam
  Gold Medal: Tamar Bober-Tsafrir

• National Spanish Exam
  Perfect Score Gold Medals: Jacqueline Hsi, Jaden Cortes
  Silver Medals: Jayden Hunter, Matthew Ginzburg, Lyric Joosten, Mikayla Oren, Mikkel Myaskovsky
  Bronze Medals: Vidhya Velayudhan, Isabel Hercules, Alexa Bradford, Chloe Wong, Ralph Tang, Dylan Singh-Dorsey, Mariam Chikvanaia, Emma Keslar

Hewlett High School Highlights

World Language students in grades 9–12 at HHS also participated in the National Language Exams and received numerous awards in recognition of their outstanding performance:

• National French Exam
  Gold Medal: Ivy Zellner
  Silver Medals: Shane Zamidar, Briana Garcia, Julia Igaunis, Jacob Tenenbaum, Ava Gupta
  Bronze Medals: Rachel Chen, Luka Profiloski, David Halimi, Tiffany Lin

• National Italian Exam
  Gold Medal: Francesca Miranda-Kucherovsky
  Silver Medal: Emiliya Iani
  Bronze Medals: Morgan Ruvinsky, Sofia Umanskiy, Serin Kaptan

• National Spanish Exam
  Gold Medals: Itiel Sulman, Mischa Zhang
  Silver Medals: Tevel Bober, Ivan Reznikov
  Bronze Medals: Sophie Tsoglin, Salvatore Castro, Levi Raphael, Chloe Blackwell, Ari Vanunu

Both WMS and HHS students exemplify the district’s commitment to language learning and cultural understanding. The National Language Exams not only assess language proficiency but also promote enthusiasm for global communication. The District congratulates all participating students for their remarkable achievements and thank our World Language and ENL teachers for guiding and inspiring excellence across every level.

On June 4, 2025, Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools proudly celebrated the outstanding dedication and contributions of district employees during the Employee Recognition Ceremony, held just before the Board of Education Work Meeting.

The event honored dozens of staff members who reached significant career milestones, as well as those retiring at the close of the 2024–2025 school year. Each individual recognized has played an important role in fulfilling the district’s mission of Empowering the Next Generation for Success in Life.

Honorees by Years of Service:

45 Years
David Greco

40 Years
Barbara Callahan

35 Years
Sylvana Bocci, Anne E. Drossman

30 Years
Mindy Fenton, Kristina Lacy, Brenna Leighton, Vincent Lospinuso, Sharon Morelli

25 Years
Sally H. Adams, Terrence Bissoondial, Amy Bravo, Margaret Chiofolo, Matthew Csorba, Karen Cunningham, Paula Delia, Ellen Donoghue, Christine Fischer, Jodie Meyer-Hetzler, Stephanie Maltz, Susan Patello, Michelle Rosenthal, Kelly A. Roderick, Diane M. Schneider, Lisa Scotti, Sonia Tejada, Randi L. Ward

20 Years
Mindy Albenda, Donovan Berthoud, Rosemary Dirks, Elizabeth Forelli, Kristina L. Gallagher, Mary Gibbons, Lauren Hargreaves, Lisa G. Holze, Karen M. Konik, Lisa Lapetina-Forgione, Donna L. Matalevich, Jodi B. Nadler, Linda M. O’Grady, Ginette Orlando, Michael A. Parisi, Elizabeth Ruiz-Quintana, Barbara M. Randazzo, Joseph G. Whitney

15 Years
Janet Alfieri, Francesco Artusa, Maria Cappas, Nadia Hopkins, Donna Lynch, Jared Pittelli, Mark Talbot

10 Years
Rosemarie Abrignani, Marina Babayeva, Susan Albergo, Gina Carrillo, Mary Gibbons, Pamela Griffin, Valerie Hall, Molly Henck, Margarete Hoerlein, Ina B. Jacobson, Lisa Kaneblei, Michelle Kinhackl, Ruth Lipman, Kelly Logan, Robert Machado, Ralph Marino Jr., Josephine McGuinness, Alexander Moran, Heather D. Napoli, Elizabeth Oleksiak, Sadie Ann Oliphant-Plunkett, Salvatore Perrotta, Deanna Pisciotta, Matthew Redash, Jarrett Rubin, Lauren Sanfilippo, Mercedes Scheinwald, Anthony Scro, Lisa Scotti

2025 Retirees:
Caryn Bachar, Albert Bauer, Karen Cunningham, Joseph DiBartolo, Rosemary Dirks, Rosemarie Lombardo, Ralph Marino, Grace Mattel, Melissa Morgan, Kim Parahus, Santos Surita, Patricia Weinrauch

The District thanks each honoree for their years of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the Hewlett-Woodmere community. Their impact will be felt for generations to come.

On Tuesday, June 3, Ogden Elementary School welcomed two Woodmere Middle School 8th graders, Harley Moritz and Romy Fruman, for a powerful peer-led presentation on the Kindertransport — a rescue effort that saved nearly 10,000 Jewish children from Nazi Germany during the Holocaust.

What began as a National History Day project evolved into a deep, personal mission for Harley and Romy, who interviewed a Kindertransport survivor, created a documentary, and recently spoke at the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center in Glen Cove.

Their presentation offered Ogden students an engaging and age-appropriate look at history through the eyes of fellow students. It sparked thoughtful questions and meaningful reflection, demonstrating the power of student-led learning and the importance of remembering the past.

On May 27, 8th grade students at WMS, along with teachers and staff, took part in a powerful educational experience through the Spirit of Triumph’s Virtual Reality presentation of Auschwitz. Sponsored by the WMS PTA, the program used cutting-edge VR technology to immerse students in the history of the Holocaust, guided by educators and Holocaust scholar Rabbi Yisrael Goldwasser.

The all-day event, integrated into Social Studies classes, allowed participants to explore the Auschwitz camp virtually, hear survivor testimonies, and gain a deeper understanding of this significant history. The school hopes to continue offering this transformative experience to future 8th grade classes.

WMS thanks the PTA, teachers, and staff for supporting this impactful program.