Dr. Manning's 5-Minute Weekly Update

Posted Date: 09/13/26 (10:00 AM)

Dr. Manning's 5-Minute Weekly Newsletter - September 13, 2026

Superintendent's Message

I am sure many in the community know TJL Security Guard, Mr. Greg Woods. You may not know that “Mr. Greg” was a member of the FDNY for 20 years and was assigned to a fireboat on 9/11/2001. He took time to read to a class and shared his story of bravery and heroics on that fateful day as his team ferried survivors, helped the wounded, and participated in the recovery. Click here to learn more. Thank you, Mr. Greg!

Click on any of the pictures in this update for additional information.

Six Days In, and We're Off to a Great Start!

It is hard to believe that we have already completed the first six days of the 2026–2027 school year! I have thoroughly enjoyed visiting our schools and watching students reconnect with friends, building relationships with their teachers, settling into new routines, and beginning another year of learning and growth. From exciting moments on our athletic fields to important conversations about kindness, belonging, service, and remembrance, we are already seeing so many examples of what makes Harborfields such a special community.

Thank you to our students, administrators, teachers, staff, and families for helping us get the year off to such a wonderful start.

Honoring the 25th Anniversary of September 11th

Students and staff across the District were united in solemn recognition of Patriot Day, which marked the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001. The day was filled with reflection, unity, and gratitude throughout Harborfields. We are so proud of the way everyone came together to remember and honor this important day.

Health & Wellness - Wellness Wire Newsletter

I encourage our families to take a few minutes to explore the latest edition of the Harborfields Wellness Wire, developed by our PTA Health & Wellness Committee. This quarterly resource is part of our ongoing commitment to supporting the whole child and strengthening the health and well-being of our entire Harborfields Family. Each edition offers practical information, helpful resources, and ideas that families can use to promote healthy habits, balance, connection, and overall wellness. I am grateful to the members of our Health & Wellness Committee for the time, creativity, and care they continue to invest in this important work, and I hope you enjoy the latest edition!

Please click on the image below to view the latest edition of the Harborfields Wellness Wire!

Safety Information - E-Bikes and E-Scooters

As we begin the new school year, the Suffolk County Police Department is encouraging parents and students to review important safety information regarding E-bikes and E-scooters. Following a rise in preventable incidents and injuries involving these devices last year, the SCPD has released an E-Bike and E-Scooter Safety Flyer detailing local laws, risks, and safe operation practices. Click on the image below to view a short educational safety video, which is available to watch and download on the SCPD Community Relations Bureau's Instagram page.

We encourage all families to discuss these resources together to help keep our students safe on the road.

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

Harborfields High School

The Varsity Field Hockey team celebrated an exciting win at home under the lights! Two players scored their first varsity goals, while another recorded her first varsity assist. The team finished with a 7-0 victory, marking their third shutout of the season so far. Way to go, tornadoes!

Oldfield Middle School

Students and staff wore Red, White, and Blue in honor of Patriot Day and all of those affected by the tragic events of September 11th, 2001. Students engaged in class discussions regarding that morning, watched archived news footage of the breaking news, listened to stories of courageous first responders, and learned about other countries that welcomed travelers from diverted flights.

Thomas J. Lahey Elementary School

Monthly student meetings are back at TJL! The first meeting focused on the Lion’s “Mane” Mission: Respectful, Responsible, Safe Every Day, Inclusive at TJL, it’s the Lion Way! A great way to start the year together and remind students that we ALL play a part in making TJL a place where everyone feels safe, valued, and that they belong!

Washington Drive Primary School

Back to school means getting back into the routine, and while the weather is nice, that includes plenty of time for playground fun! Students are making the most of recess, running, climbing, laughing, and letting off a little steam on the playground.

Board Meeting Preview

The Harborfields Board of Education will hold its next Regular Meeting on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at Oldfield Middle School. The public portion of this meeting is expected to begin at approximately 7:45 p.m. Doors will open to the public at 7:20 p.m. The public does not need to register in advance to view the meeting remotely. All meetings will be live-streamed on our student-run Tornado News website. The link is also provided on the monthly Public Notice document posted on our website.

The Board of Education welcomes and encourages the public to attend its meetings. The agenda for this meeting is posted on the Board of Education page of our website, along with a brochure describing Board of Education meetings and an informational letter describing the public comment process.

Highlights of this month’s meeting are as follows:

Students and staff will also be recognized for their accomplishments during the Board recognition program.
My Superintendent's Report will include a spotlight on the Extended School Year Program.
Presentations on the district's Professional Learning Plan and the Establishment of the 2026-2027 Tax Levy will be provided.

Following the Superintendent’s Report, the Board will act on items included in the agenda. We hope you will be able to join us at this upcoming meeting of the Board of Education.

Thank you for your continued support of our students and our schools!

Each Child. Each Day. One Harborfields Family.