Long Beach Public School District is proud to congratulate 56 outstanding student musicians in grades 5–12 who have been selected to perform in the prestigious Nassau Music Educators Association (NMEA) All-County Music Festival, representing Divisions 1–5.

These talented students were chosen based on their high ranking NYSSMA scores and will perform this January with other top musicians from across Nassau County. Their achievement reflects both their individual dedication and the exceptional quality of Long Beach’s music education program.

“This recognition speaks volumes about the commitment and passion of our students and teachers,” said Julia Lang-Shapiro, Director of Media, Visual and Performing Arts. “From our elementary music programs through high school, our educators work tirelessly to create opportunities for students to grow as musicians, performers, and creative thinkers. We are so proud of every student who earned a place in this year’s festival.”

The district extends special recognition to Long Beach Middle School Chorus teacher Christina Farrell, whose students once again achieved remarkable success, with 18 students accepted into All-County ensembles.

Concerts will be held at the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts on January 11, 16, 17, and 18, 2026, featuring student performers in chorus, band, orchestra, and jazz.

The selected students represent every level of the Long Beach music program from Lido Elementary, East Elementary, Lindell Elementary and West Elementary Schools to Long Beach Middle School and Long Beach High School demonstrating the district’s strong, continuous thread of excellence in music education.

This achievement underscores Long Beach’s ongoing commitment to providing rich, equitable, and inspiring arts education opportunities that empower students to express themselves, collaborate, and achieve at the highest levels.

Congratulations to all of the talented student musicians and to the dedicated Long Beach music educators, past and present, who continue to inspire and nurture their success.

 

Date Added: 10/22/2025

Long Beach Public Schools proudly celebrated the induction of four honorees into the district’s Wall of Fame during a ceremony held on October 11 at Long Beach High School. Established in 1996, the Wall of Fame recognizes alumni and community members whose achievements serve as an inspiration for current students and the entire Long Beach community.

This year’s inductees include the 2005 State Champion Ice Hockey Team, Stefan Chernaski (’88), Jeff Kupferman (’70), and Colonel Estee Pinchasin (’93). All inductees were celebrated for their lasting impact on athletics, public service, education, and leadership.

The 2005 State Champion Ice Hockey Team made school history with their thrilling State Finals victory, overcoming the top-seeded Cheektowaga Warriors. Their resilience and teamwork inspired generations of future players and cemented the program’s place in Long Beach sports legacy.

Stefan Chernaski excelled in football, wrestling, and baseball before embarking on a distinguished 30-year career with the Long Beach Police Department, where he serves as Commanding Officer of the Detective Division. Chernaski has been honored with numerous commendations, including the Nassau County Municipal Police Chiefs Association Distinguished Service Award.

Jeff Kupferman devoted three decades as a beloved school social worker at Long Beach High School, known for his compassion and unwavering dedication to students. His positive influence continues to resonate within the community long after his 2010 retirement.

Colonel Estee Pinchasin has built an extraordinary military career, currently serving as Joint Director of Logistics at the National Security Agency. A former Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Baltimore District, she has led large-scale engineering projects and emergency recovery operations, earning multiple commendations including two Bronze Star Medals and six Meritorious Service Medals.

“Each of these inductees reflects the spirit of excellence and service that defines Long Beach,” said Dr. Jennifer Gallagher, Long Beach Superintendent of Schools. “Their accomplishments inspire our students to dream big and make a difference.”

The ceremony was hosted by Long Beach Board of Trustee Sam Pinto, serving as Master of Ceremonies. The event celebrated not only the 2025 honorees but also the legacy of past inductees whose names grace the Wall of Fame. The Long Beach Wall of Fame is a lasting tribute to the school community’s shared pride and achievement.

Long Beach High School celebrated homecoming under the Friday night lights at Veterans Field on Oct. 10.

Before the game, students, families, and community members gathered for the annual homecoming carnival, sponsored by the student government organizations, in the middle school parking lot. Attendees interacted with club members, played games, and took part in activities that showcased Long Beach pride.

As evening fell, fans filled the bleachers at Veterans Field, decked out in blue and white to cheer on the Marines in their highly anticipated matchup against Calhoun High School. Prior to kickoff, senior football players and cheerleaders were escorted onto the field by family and friends to celebrate their final homecoming appearance.

The stands were alive with energy as the pep band played, and the cheerleaders led the crowd in supporting the team. During halftime, the color guard, pep band, and varsity cheerleading squad delivered lively performances that had the crowd on its feet. The celebration continued with the annual Bulldog Dash, featuring Long Beach youth football players racing across the field and the crowning of this year’s homecoming king, Maurice Dupree, and queen, Julia DiGiorgio.

The evening concluded with Marine football victory of 14-7!

 

Date Added: 10/15/2025