October was an exciting and busy month at Southampton Intermediate School! From celebrating kindness and inclusion to recognizing the many cultures that make up our school community, our students and staff had countless opportunities to learn, connect, and create lasting memories.
Throughout the month, our school was filled with activities, celebrations, field trips, and opportunities for students to demonstrate leadership and school spirit. Here is a look back at some of the highlights from October!
Character Theme of the Month: Responsibility
Throughout October, our schoolwide character theme was Responsibility. Each morning, students heard messages over the loudspeaker encouraging them to think about what it means to be responsible in their classrooms, throughout the school, and in their everyday lives.
Responsibility was also highlighted through posters displayed around the building and conversations taking place in classrooms and throughout the school. Students were encouraged to take ownership of their actions, make positive choices, follow through on commitments, and recognize how their decisions impact others.
Our goal is to make these monthly character themes more than just words on a wall. By keeping responsibility at the center of our daily conversations, we hope to help students develop habits and values that extend well beyond the classroom.
Unity Day: Standing Together Against Bullying
On October 21, Southampton Intermediate School students and staff came together in a sea of orange to celebrate Unity Day, a national event promoting kindness, acceptance, inclusion, and bullying prevention.
Throughout the day, our guidance counselors visited classrooms to lead lessons and discussions focused on kindness, inclusion, and the importance of standing up against bullying. Students were encouraged to reflect on how their words and actions can help create a school where everyone feels welcome, supported, and valued.
One of the highlights of the day was our whole-school Unity Day photo! Students and staff gathered together on the field, where high school teacher Sean Zay captured an incredible aerial photograph using the district's drone. A special thank-you to our district grounds crew for helping prepare the field for this memorable moment.
We would also like to recognize our outstanding guidance team—Mrs. Buccio, Mr. Duroseau, Mrs. Germain, Mrs. Johnson, and Ms. Vasquez—for organizing such a meaningful day.
Unity Day served as an important reminder that creating a positive school culture is everyone's responsibility!
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Red Ribbon Week
From October 26–30, SIS celebrated Red Ribbon Week with this year's theme, "Make a Difference, Be a Hero, Stay Drug Free!"
Students and staff participated in themed spirit days throughout the week, bringing energy and excitement to our building while reinforcing the importance of healthy choices and positive decision-making.
Students also had the opportunity to participate in special activities with Hill Street Boxing during their physical education classes. In addition, our School Resource Officers, Tiffany and Lee, visited classrooms throughout the week, connecting with students and discussing important topics related to making safe and responsible choices.
A huge thank-you to our guidance department for coordinating a week full of meaningful learning experiences and school spirit!
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
SIS celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month through a variety of classroom activities, daily announcements, and schoolwide trivia questions that helped students learn about and appreciate Hispanic and Latino cultures, histories, and contributions.
A highlight of our celebration took place on October 15, when students attended a schoolwide cultural assembly featuring Sol y Sombra, a renowned dance company specializing in traditional Hispanic and Latin dance styles.
Students experienced performances featuring Flamenco, Spanish Classical and Folk Dance, Mexican dance, Argentine Tango, and other traditional dances from across the Hispanic and Latin world.
The assembly was a wonderful opportunity for students to experience cultural traditions through music, movement, and performance while celebrating the diversity of our school community.
Multicultural Night: Celebrating Our Community
On October 22, SIS welcomed families, students, staff, and community members for a wonderful Multicultural Night!
The evening brought our school community together to celebrate the different cultures and traditions represented throughout Southampton. Families enjoyed delicious dishes from around the world, generously prepared and shared by staff and community members.
It was a fantastic opportunity to connect outside the classroom, learn about one another, and celebrate the diversity that makes our community so special.
A special thank-you to our PTO for organizing this fun evening, along with everyone who contributed food, time, and energy to make the event such a success!
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Learning Beyond the Classroom: October Field Trips
October was also filled with exciting opportunities for students to take their learning beyond the walls of SIS!
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7th Grade Montauk Trip: Our seventh graders traveled to Montauk for an opportunity to explore and spend time learning outside the classroom.
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5th Grade Harbes Farm Trip: Our fifth graders enjoyed a fun fall experience at Harbes Farm.
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Mr. Darcy's Class Shopping Trip: Students participated in a community-based shopping experience, practicing valuable real-world skills and independence.
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Mrs. Duryea's Baking Class: Students visited the Milk Pail in Water Mill, connecting their classroom experiences with a local business.
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5th Grade Trick or Treating at District Office: All 5th gradr students took a walk over to our district office on October 30th to do some trick or treating. Thank you to all the staff at District Office for inviting us!
Thank you to all the teachers and staff who helped organize and support these experiences!
We wrapped up October and Red Ribbon Week with one of our favorite school traditions:
SIS Fall Fest
Students rotated through four exciting stations designed to promote teamwork, creativity, school spirit, and, most importantly, fun!
Students worked together to solve five puzzles and unlock the mystery of the Fall Fest candy stash, putting their problem-solving and teamwork skills to the test while earning candy prizes.
Pop Culture & Middle School Trivia – Library
Students put their knowledge to the test during an interactive Kahoot competition featuring pop culture, middle school trivia, and other fun challenges.
Fall Fest Fun – Cafeteria
The cafeteria was filled with music, snacks, ice cream, and Halloween excitement! Students also had the opportunity to participate in a costume contest with prizes.
Team Building – Gymnasium
Students joined Mr. Bentsen for a variety of team-building games and activities focused on cooperation, friendly competition, and having fun together.
Fall Fest was a wonderful way to end the month and give our students an opportunity to celebrate together. Thank you to all of our staff members who helped organize, supervise, and make the afternoon such a success!
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Thinking Pink: Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Throughout October, Southampton Intermediate School came together to recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month and show support for those impacted by breast cancer.
Each Wednesday, students and staff were encouraged to wear pink to help raise awareness and demonstrate our school community's support for this important cause.
Our National Junior Honor Society students also took an active role by organizing fundraising efforts throughout the month. During lunch periods, NJHS members sold popcorn and other items to raise money while encouraging their peers to get involved.
On October 3, our NJHS students participated in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, demonstrating their commitment to giving back and making a positive difference beyond the walls of SIS.
Our girls soccer team also joined in the effort by hosting their annual "Pink Game" in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This special tradition provided another opportunity for our student-athletes to come together, raise awareness, and show their support for an important cause.
We are incredibly proud of our students for demonstrating leadership, compassion, and a commitment to helping others. A big thank-you to our NJHS members, girls soccer team, staff, families, and everyone who participated in our Pink Wednesdays and fundraising efforts. Together, our SIS community showed that even small actions can make a meaningful difference!
After-School Clubs Are in Full Swing!
Our after-school clubs and activities are officially underway, and it has been wonderful to see students getting involved!
These programs provide opportunities for students to explore new interests, build friendships, develop skills, and connect with peers and staff outside the traditional classroom setting.
After school club bussing is available every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and select Fridays at 4:10pm throughout the school year. We encourage all students to get involved with our after school clubs as well as staying after for our academic programs: BASA, Homework Club and After School Academy. If you want more information about our after school clubs, please reach out!
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This October, SIS received a record number of student nominations from staff members recognizing students who demonstrated our character theme of the month: Responsibility! We are proud to celebrate these 18 students for the many ways they have shown responsibility in their classrooms, throughout our school, and in their interactions with others. |
Vivienne consistently demonstrates responsibility by coming to class prepared and ready to learn. She completes her assignments on time and follows classroom expectations. Her ability to take ownership of her learning and actions makes her a wonderful example of a responsible student at SIS! |
Sophie is a responsible student who consistently comes to class prepared and ready to participate. She takes pride in completing her assignments on time and meeting classroom expectations. Her commitment to taking ownership of her learning and making positive choices is something to be celebrated! |
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Leslie is a wonderful example of responsibility through her willingness to help others. She consistently looks out for her classmates, helps others get where they need to be, and speaks up when someone needs assistance. Her ability to advocate for others and make positive choices demonstrates strong character and leadership. Leslie's caring and responsible attitude makes a positive difference in our school community! |
Irissa has demonstrated tremendous motivation, perseverance, and responsibility throughout October. She continues to work hard and push herself to succeed. She has also shown growing independence during community outings and has done an outstanding job taking on new responsibilities while helping run the Mariner Market on Thursdays and Fridays. Irissa brings a positive attitude and a smile to school each day, and we are so proud of her continued growth! |
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Isabella consistently demonstrates responsibility through her positive choices and dedication to learning. She arrives to class on time, completes her assignments, and comes ready to participate. Her ability to stay on top of her responsibilities and make thoughtful decisions makes her a wonderful role model for her classmates! |
Henri demonstrates outstanding responsibility not only for his own learning but also by supporting those around him. He listens attentively, asks thoughtful questions, and takes the initiative to help classmates understand challenging concepts. He has also shown leadership by helping his class stay focused and productive when a substitute teacher is present. Henri's willingness to step up and help others makes him a valuable member of our school community! |
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Grissel demonstrates responsibility through her excellent work ethic and positive attitude. She consistently approaches her work with effort and a willingness to do her best. Her hardworking nature and great attitude are appreciated by her teachers and make her a wonderful student to recognize! |
Chase has made great progress in developing the habits of a responsible student. He is learning to manage both short-term and long-term assignments while making sure his work is completed in a timely manner. He also consistently arrives to class prepared with the materials he needs to be successful. Chase's continued growth in organization and responsibility is something to be proud of! |
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Katherinne is an organized, hardworking student who consistently demonstrates responsibility and dedication to her education. She takes ownership of her learning by checking in with her teachers, asking questions, and advocating for herself when needed. Katherinne eagerly participates in classroom activities and treats her classmates with kindness and respect. Her strong work ethic and thoughtful approach to learning make her an excellent role model at SIS! |
Willian has demonstrated tremendous responsibility, effort, and determination in working toward his academic goals. He continues to take positive steps to improve his academic performance and has shown increased motivation in the classroom. His willingness to take ownership of his progress and put in the work needed to improve is something to be celebrated. We are proud of Willian's continued growth and commitment to success! |
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Alex has demonstrated wonderful growth and improvement in his approach to school this year. Building on his experiences from sixth grade, he has made positive changes and is becoming a strong role model in the classroom. His progress reflects a growing sense of responsibility and a commitment to making positive choices. We are proud of the effort Alex is putting into becoming the best student he can be! |
Amy is an incredibly hardworking student who consistently puts forth her best effort. She demonstrates responsibility through her dedication to learning and her thoughtful interactions with classmates. Her strong academic abilities, work ethic, and consideration for others make her a positive presence in the classroom. Amy is a wonderful example of a student who leads through both her actions and her attitude! |
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Nolan has demonstrated responsibility by consistently checking in with his teachers during extra help. His willingness to take advantage of additional support shows that he is taking an active role in his learning. By making the effort to seek assistance and stay connected with his teachers, Nolan is developing important habits that will help him continue to grow academically. We are proud of his initiative and commitment! |
Katelyn has shown a strong sense of responsibility by consistently attending and checking in during extra help. She recognizes the importance of seeking support and taking an active role in her academic progress. Her willingness to dedicate additional time to her learning demonstrates initiative and a commitment to improvement. Katelyn's responsible approach to her education deserves recognition! |
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Donovan is an outstanding example of what it means to be a responsible student. He consistently completes his homework, performs well on assessments, and makes sure his assignments are submitted on time. He also takes the initiative to communicate with his teachers through email when needed, demonstrating maturity and ownership of his education. Donovan's dedication and dependable work habits truly embody our character theme of responsibility! |
Angel consistently demonstrates responsibility through his positive attitude toward learning and his respect for others. He eagerly participates in classroom activities and is always willing to contribute to discussions and learning experiences. His enthusiasm, respectful behavior, and positive energy help create a welcoming and productive classroom environment. Angel is a wonderful example of how responsible choices can positively influence those around us! |
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John demonstrates responsibility through his consistent preparation and dedication to his schoolwork. He completes assignments on time, follows classroom expectations, and takes ownership of his learning. His dependable approach to his responsibilities sets a positive example for those around him! |
Vincent has shown a strong sense of responsibility in the classroom by arriving prepared and completing his work on time. He consistently follows classroom expectations and understands the importance of taking ownership of his actions. His commitment to being a responsible learner is greatly appreciated! |
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