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Harborfields Central School District

Each Child. Each Day. One Harborfields Family.

Dr. Manning's 5-Minute Weekly Update

Posted Date: 10/25/26 (10:00 AM)


Dr. Manning's 5-Minute Weekly Newsletter - October 25, 2026

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Superintendent's Message 

During a recent visit to Washington Drive, I met Zoey, who was celebrating her upcoming birthday this weekend.  

Happy Birthday, Zoey!   

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

A Fun-Filled October!  
By next weekend, we’ll be turning yet another page in the calendar and welcoming November. A new month brings with it new opportunities and possibilities, and there’s so much to look forward to here in Harborfields. Don’t miss this week’s festive events, including the sixth-grade Trunk or Treat event at OMS (10/27), Safe Halloween at the high school (10/29), and, of course, the Halloween parades at Washington Drive (10/30). I am looking forward to seeing all of our families at these celebrations! 


Newsday Marching Band Festival

The high school Marching Band & Kickline wowed the crowd with their “crazy” field show at the Newsday Marching Band Festival! They looked and sounded spectacular, and our families made sure they had the loudest cheering section in the entire stadium! Special thanks to Ms. Scilla, Mr. Bilawsky, and Coach Best for their dedication and support, and congratulations to all on a season filled with incredible performances! 

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BOE Spotlight 

During this month’s Superintendent’s Spotlight, Assistant Principal Jen Maichin and School Counselor Lynnsey Gaska highlighted the diverse opportunities available at Wilson Tech. Since 2023, 140 Harborfields students have participated in 38 program areas. Three current Harborfields students (pictured below: Jack, Justin, and AnnNelie) joined Ms. Maichin and Ms. Gaska at the podium to share firsthand experiences in the BOCES dental assisting, automotive technology, and culinary arts programs, offering a glimpse into how Wilson Tech helps students explore their interests and prepare for the future. Click on the video below and prepare to be amazed! 

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Magic Pumpkin Seeds

Did you know that we have magic pumpkin seeds at Washington Drive Primary School? Our students found out by spreading their magic seeds throughout the courtyard.  The very next day, when they returned to school, the magic seeds turned into real pumpkins (with a little help from the WDPS PTA)! Our youngest learners were so excited to take home their magic pumpkins!

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Harborfields 2032 - Family Surveys

Five years ago, the district embarked on a mission to develop a 5-year Strategic Plan.  One of the essential questions at the time was: What does a Harborfields education look like in 2027?  Through an inclusive process of interviews, surveys, focus groups, and discussions, the district developed a plan spanning the years 2022-2027.  I could not be more proud of the transformation that has occurred over the past five years, and I am beyond thrilled to join the staff, students, and community in determining the future direction of the district.   


To ensure all voices are heard, we have developed the following family surveys.  I ask that you please take a few moments to click on the link for the schools where your child or children attend.  For families with multiple children in multiple schools, please submit a response for each of the schools where your children attend.  Your voice matters and your time is appreciated!  Thank you!


WDPS Family Survey

​​TJL Family Survey

OMS Family Survey

HHS Family Survey


MTSS Parent Information Night - Tuesday, October 27

Did you know families are an important part of MTSS?! Parents can collaborate with MTSS to share strengths and weaknesses, reinforce skills, and review progress and goals. Knowing what to expect can help you feel informed and better prepared to partner with your child’s school. SEPTA invites the community to join district administration for MTSS parent information night to learn about the process and what it means for your family. Save the date and invite another Harborfields parent to join you. Tuesday, October 27, 6 PM @ Oldfield Middle School library. 

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

Harborfields High School 

The newest members of the National Honor Society were inducted during a meaningful ceremony. This honor celebrates their academic achievements and the character, leadership, and service they bring to our school and community. These qualities shine through in everyday moments: helping a classmate, including others, standing up for what is right, and making a difference through service. We are proud of all you have accomplished and look forward to the contributions you will continue to make! 

 

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Oldfield Middle School

OMS students dove deeper into what their digital footprint means during Digital Citizenship Week! During lunch periods, students decorated a shoe with ways they could keep their digital footprint safe and positive. What a fun way to learn such important concepts!  

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Thomas J. Lahey Elementary School

The Lahey Lions walked over to the high school to enjoy amazing performances by the marching band, chamber orchestra, vocal ensemble, and kickline! They loved seeing all the incredible talent and giving our students a glimpse of what they have to look forward to as future Tornadoes! Thank you to our high school students and staff for putting this amazing experience together for our TJL students each year!  



Washington Drive Primary School

A big shout-out to the volunteer families from Ms. Harley’s class who came in to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.  Our families transformed the cafeteria into a journey of exploration for our students.  What a fun way to learn about Hispanic Heritage! 




Announcements & Shoutouts


Huge Playoff Win for Varsity Volleyball

Congratulations to the Girls Varsity Volleyball team, who advanced to the semifinals after an incredible four-set win over Kings Park. This team is on a roll with senior Liv Rochlin surpassing 1,000 career digs, and Coach Legge hitting 300 wins! The team will take on #1 seed Islip on Wednesday, October 28. Let’s go Tornadoes! 

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Each Child. Each Day. One Harborfields Family.