Sleepy Hollow 2006-2007 News Archive

Sleepy Hollow High School Fall College Trip

The annual fall college trip was held, this year, on Thursday, November 1^st.  Forty 11^th and 12^th graders took the day long trip to visit three colleges in New York State.  Two schools in the Albany area were visited, Siena College and Rensselear Polytechnic Institute.  The Sleepy Hollow students attended general information and financial aid sessions in addition to going on student guided tours of each of the campuses.  They  enjoyed lunch while visiting Rensselear.  Before returning to the high school, the students also visited St. Thomas Aquinas College in Rockland County.  An overnight college tour for juniors will be scheduled in the spring.  Interested students should speak directly with their counselors for additional information. (Posted 11/29/2007)

Sleepy Hollow High School Guidance Department Presents Financial Aid Night

A financial aid information session for high school seniors and their families will be held at 7:30 pm on Tuesday, December 4, 2007 in the Sleepy Hollow High School cafeteria.  The Guidance Department, in conjunction with Education Funding Consultants Association, will address a variety of financial aid topics, including how to plan for college with or without financial aid, how to determine whether or not one qualifies for financial aid, and what to do if not enough financial aid is granted.  Workshop attendees will hear ways to pay for their children’s education without changing one’s family’s financial future.  The workshop will also review instructions on filing financial aid forms and how to qualify for more aid, key ways to reduce a child’s college tuition, dozens of helpful tax strategies designed to preserve family assets, and how to pay for college without jeopardizing one’s retirement.  This workshop is a wonderful introduction to the financial aid process.  High school seniors and their families are encouraged to attend. (Posted 11/28/2007)

Sleepy Hollow High School Sophomores Attend BOCES Career Fair

On Friday, November 16^th over 200 members of the sophomore class attended the annual BOCES Career Fair.  The purpose of the Career Fair was to help 10^th graders start to explore the different careers choices that are available to them.  The Career Fair, which is open to all school districts in Southern Westchester, provided students with the opportunity to attend small workshops in which individuals from a variety of professional fields spoke about their chosen careers.  In addition to the workshop speakers talking about the personal and academic requirements of their professions, they also shared anecdotes from their experiences.  Students were also given an opportunity to ask the presenters questions, including how to begin to prepare for a given career while in high school, a particular profession’s working conditions, the advantages and challenges of a given career, and compensation and benefits within a given field.  Overall, the day was extremely successful, as students found the fair very informative and helpful in getting them started in thinking about future careers. (Posted 11/28/2007)

Sleepy Hollow Students are Semi-Finalists in the First Annual Moot Court Competition

Nine law students from Sleepy Hollow High School participated in the first annual Westchester County Human Rights Moot Court Competition.  Under the guidance of teacher, Jessica Hunsberger, the prepared a legal brief in which they represented a school district that was accused of violating a student’s 1^st and 14^th amendment rights.  On November 14^th, Sleepy Hollow student litigators presented their oral arguments, and responded to difficult questions posed by Westchester County attorneys (posing as judges) and justices at the Westchester County Courthouse.  Sleepy Hollow advanced to the semi-final round and received a medal for “best runner-up brief.”  Opening event remarks were presented by County Executive Andy Spano, State Senator Andrea Stewart Cousins in addition to several county legislators and judges.  The experience was an excellent opportunity for the students and they are already looking forward to competing again next year.  (Posted 11/19/2007)

Sleepy Hollow High School Multimedia Students win Adobe MAX Award Honorable Mention

The annual MAX Awards recognizes the best of the best uses of Adobe software for creating engaging experiences. The Adobe MAX Awards are a global competition. Sleepy Hollow students Multimedia Production Team’s products: the 2007 Digital Yearbook on DVD and the www.sleepyhollowhits.com website won the Adobe 2007 MAX Awards Honorable Mention designation in the Public Sector category.“The submission received high accolades from the judges.” Sleepy Hollow students will be featured in the MAX Awards area of adobe.com and will be announced at MAX North America in Chicago.Thanks to the Foundation of the Tarrytowns, Mrs. Conklin and Dr. Smith, Mr. Mormile will bring Alex Berger and Jesse Ovalles, multimedia team representatives, to Chicago for the MAX North America Conference from September 30th to October 3rd, 2007   (Posted 10/3/2007)

An Opportunity to Honor Your Graduating Senior, Favorite Teacher or the Class of 2007*

If  "All the World’s A Stage"

Then why not invest in the best seat in the house…

In the new Sleepy Hollow High/Middle School Theater

Don’t miss this once in a lifetime opportunity for a permanent place in the history of the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns

The Foundation for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns is proud to sponsor, the “Buy A Seat” campaign. Your purchase of a personalized engraved commemorative plaque to adorn a seat in the newly constructed High/Middle School Theater will help to enrich the academic and cultural lives of Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow’s public school children.

Just fill out and return the form below with your tax-deductible check or credit card information. Be careful to insert both letters and spaces in each space provided. Each name will be placed on a beautifully engraved brass plaque to be placed on each seat. The name(s) of the individual(s) you choose to honor will be an enduring part of the beautiful new state-of-the-art theater.

Your tax-deductible contribution of $100 per seat will help accomplish the Foundation’s mission of enhancing our students’ educational experiences.   Seats are limited and plaques will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis, so please return your form as quickly as possible. The Foundation thanks you for preserving the legacy of excellence in the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns.

In conformity with Internal Revenue Service requirements, please be advised that we have not provided you with any goods or services as consideration for this contribution. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Your cancelled check is your receipt.

For questions please call: Shelly Colley 366-8457, or email Foundation@tufsd.org

Plaques will be sold on a first-come, first-serve basis; space is limited, so please respond ASAP.

* mailing to entire community will go out in September

Click here for order form

DY7 - Digital Yearbook 2007 Premieres June 11th
Over 100 multimedia students worked together as a team to create this year’s digital yearbook. This is the seventh Digital Yearbook at Sleepy Hollow. The DVD plays for 2 and one half hours and contains 49 videos.  The Digital Yearbook will premiere at the Senior Breakfast on Monday, June 11^th.

Seniors and members of the Digital Yearbook Production Team will receive a DVD for free. All others will have to pay $5 which is the cost of production. 

The multimedia production classes under the direction of Tom Mormile, also is responsible for producing their own Adobe Site of the Day flash video website, www.sleepyhollowhits.com.  View a Trailer for DY7 on the homepage and our latest Digital News Report featuring senior messages, teacher retirements, the junior dinner and updates on sports and construction. Students are still working on videos to post to the web this last week of school.

Multimedia students use state of the art technology and high end software (Dreamweaver 8, Flash 8, Adobe Premier Pro 2.0, Adobe After Effects Pro 7.0, Adobe Photoshop CS2, Audition, Encore and Bridge) to create the website and the DVD.

The Sleepy Hollow multimedia students would like to thank Carol Conklin, John Krouskoff and Dr. Smith for making the website and DVD possible.  (Posted 6/7/2007)

"The Laramie Project”
"Laramie Project"  to be performed at Winfield L. Morse School, Joseph P. Carmody Auditorium  June 7th and June 9th @ 7:00pm
$8 Adults, $5 Seniors and Students
Presented by the Gay-Straight Alliance of Sleepy Hollow HIgh School..... Funded by the Foundation for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns

"The Laramie Project” is a play that explores the killing of Matthew Shepard, a gay student at the University of Wyoming, who was beaten, tied to a fence and left to die on the outskirts of Laramie. After Mr. Shepard’s death, members of the Tectonic Theater Project, a group based in New York, traveled to Laramie and interviewed more than 200 people. The edited interviews, as well as the trial testimony of the two men convicted of Mr. Shepard’s murder, were distilled into the script.  The "Laramie Project" is student-acted/ directed/ teched/ designed/ and student built.  The play contains language that some parents may find unsuitable for children.  (Posted 6/7/2007)

Swimming at Sleepy Hollow
One of the new physical education electives offered to Sleepy Hollow students this year was swimming.  Students enrolled in the course were bused daily to the local Tarrytown YMCA where they were instructed on basic swimming skills.  As part of the course, students learned the proper techniques for each stroke including freestyle, backstroke, elementary backstroke, breaststroke and butterfly.  In addition, students were introduced to racing starts from the blocks, flip turns, proper diving techniques and breath control.  They also learned how to retrieve objects from the bottom of the pool, how to tread water, and how to perform competitive workouts.  Our physical education teacher and swimming instructor, Ms. Turnesa, reported that her classes put so much hard work and effort into their swimming. Her students truly loved coming to class and could not wait to get in the pool and swim. She is so proud of the tremendous progress they made throughout the semester!  (Posted 6/7/2007)

Dance Residency at the Tappan Zee Dance Group
During the month of May, physical education students enrolled in the Dance elective had the opportunity to participate in a Dance Residency program at the Tappan Zee Dance Studio in Tarrytown.  Students were bused to and from the studio during their regularly scheduled physical education class times where they received dance education from professionally trained dance instructors.

Under the instruction of Mr. Robert Brace and Ms. Rachel White, Sleepy Hollow dance students learned jazz and hip hop dance.  The students truly enjoyed their experience at the dance studio.  They came to class each day eager to participate and learn new dance techniques.  Many of the students have highly recommended their experience at the Tappan Zee Dance Group to other students thinking of enrolling in the dance elective next year.

Our physical education department along with the students in our dance elective program would like to offer our thanks the MS/HS Arts Plan for making this program possible.  The MS/HS Arts Plan is an initiative designed to bring additional arts enhancements to students in the district and is funded by The Foundation for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns.  (Posted 6/7/2007)

Ace Hendrix Does it Again!
Mr. DiLeo's Film II class at Sleepy Hollow High School has been selected to show at 2 more film festivals this summer.  Their student film, ACE HENDRIX: YOU ONLY DIE ONCE, will be at The Rivertown Film's 3rd Annual Student Film/Video Contest this Saturday and Sunday (June 9th and 10th) at The Garnerville Arts and Industrial Center in Garnerville, New York.  Later this summer, they will also be showing at The Hudson Valley Film/Video Festival at The Tuscan Cafe in Warwick, NY on Saturday August 11th.  You can still view this award winning film at www.SleepyHollowHits.com and we hope you can join for these 2 film festivals. (Posted 6/5/2007)

The 6th Annual Sleepy Hollow Senior Art Show
The 6th Annual Sleepy Hollow Senior Art Show will open on Friday, June 8, 2007 from 7:00pm - 8:30pm at Coffee Labs.   (7 Main Street, Tarrytown, NY) Exhibiting seniors will be displaying an array of work including pottery, paintings, drawings, silkscreens and photography.  Many pieces will be for sale.  Live Music will be provided by "Just two Guys"  Please come out and support our young artists!  (Posted 6/4/2007)

Hoofprints Wins Three Awards at The Journal News 17th Annual High School Journalism Awards Ceremony

For the second year in a row, Hoofprints, the SHHS newspaper, was honored at The Journal News High School Journalism Awards. The 17th annual ceremony took place on May 31 at the The Journal News headquarters in Harrison, NY. This year the paper won three awards up form two last year. First Place in the Wild Card category went to SHHS Katie M. for her article My Space: Is It Really Yours. Editor-in-Chief Josh H., Executive Editor Katie M. and Layout/Production Manager, Jenny K. won 3rd place in Page Design for the paper's first ever two-page color photo spread "Life in the Hollow". Jenny K. won an honorable mention in Page Design for "Top Picks of '06".

Winners were chosen from among  509 entries submitted by 27 schools, all in Westchester County. The judging was done by a team of 27 Journal News editors, writers, photographers and artists. Seventeen high school papers won awards citing the best work in 12 categories, from best headline to best news story to best page design. (Posted 6/2/2007)

Sleepy Hollow High Announces The Fourth Annual Jazz in the Park

The Jazz Program of the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns is pleased to announce the return of Jazz in the Park.  Once again, band ensembles representing elementary, middle and high school students will perform outdoors for the community.  Jazz in the Park will be held in Pierson Park on Wednesday, June 6^th starting at 6pm.  The evening will include performances by the Washington Irving Elementary School Stage Band, the Sleepy Hollow Jazz Lab and the Sleepy Hollow Jazz Band. 

The Sleepy Hollow Jazz Band has had an outstanding year.  The band took first place at the Music in the Parks Festival in Williamsburg, Virginia and Second Place overall at the Third Annual Sleepy Hollow Jazz Festival, which was held at the Tarrytown Music Hall.  Benjamin Gold, a senior trombone player, was recognized as the Best High School Soloist at the Williamsburg Festival.  The Jazz Band has also had the good fortune to work with pianist Pete Malinverni as an artist-in-residence.

So, bring your lawn chairs or a blanket to Pierson Park to enjoy a light meal, the beautiful weather and some excellent music as the students showcase their talents.  Food will be available for purchase from Tony’s Pizzeria and Main Street Sweets.  We look forward to seeing you there.

For further information, please contact Micah Sprague at 914-332-6223 or at msprague@tufsd.org. (Posted 5/28/2007)

Sleepy Hollow High School Model UN Club Members Participate in their Second Fight for Hunger Walk

Sleepy Hollow High School Principal Carol Conklin is pleased to announce that members of the high school’s Model United Nations Club participated in their second Fight Hunger:  Walk the World in New York City.  On Sunday, May 13^th, five members of the club and their advisor, Claire Heskestad, put aside their Mothers’ Day festivities long enough to lend their support to the fight against hunger, a worldwide event supported by the World Food Programme of the United Nations, whose headquarters is located in Rome, Italy.  Almost one million people were expected to walk from Auckland, New Zealand to Western Samoa during the 24 hour period.  In addition to everyday concerned citizens, walkers included several heads of state.  All worked to bring attention to the goal of eradicating hunger around the world by the year 2015, which is one of the Millennial Goals of the United Nations.  This was the fourth consecutive year that the EFP promoted the event.

Walkers of all ages met at the Irish Hunger Memorial located in Battery Park.  After a welcome by the walk sponsor, the TNT Television Network, representatives of the WFP gave a pep talk and reminded participants that a child dies every five seconds of hunger or hunger related causes.  Following the walk’s banner, walkers enjoyed a cool sunny walk south along the Hudson River, taking in magnificent views of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.  They then looped back to the departure point, covering a distance of about three miles.

“As a parent and an educator, I feel very appreciative when young people are so eager to participate in worldwide events to improve the future of all children, especially when that takes time away from their own family celebrations,” Mrs. Heskestad commented about the experience.  When told of the students’ participation in the walk, Mrs. Conklin stated, “What a wonderful affirmation of our students commitment to making this world a better place for generations to come.”  But Leah Morales and Dara Brennan best summed up the day by stating, “It’s really great to go every year, because you get to connect with other people who care about the same issues.”  Eva Kramer, who joined the walk for the first time added, “It was a really exciting experience and it was satisfying to walk for such a globally worthy cause.”

The Model UN Club encourages high school students to understand the way the United Nations functions and its continuous involvement around the world since its founding in 1945.  This year, club members attended the four day Harvard Model UN Conference in Boston last December, where they represented the Dominican Republic in a variety of committees, thanks to generous funding from the Foundation of the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns.  Members also participated in a conference at UN headquarters in March sponsored by the UNA-USA, where the role of the new UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon was defined and topics of Peace Keeping and Peace Building were debated by members of the diplomatic corps.

For further information, please contact Claire Heskestad at 914-631-8838 ext. 2166. (Posted 5/28/2007)

2007 SHHS Student Photo Showcase Winners
A selection of twenty digital and traditional photographs, chosen from over ninety entrants, will be on display at The Warner Library from May 22 through June 14. The  opening reception and awards announcement will be held on May 22 from 3:30-5:30 pm at the library.

Students who are enrolled in either Photography or Media Arts classes at Sleepy Hollow are eligible to enter. Awards are given in three categories in both mediums- Portrait, On Location and Experimental. The Sleepy Hollow Chamber of Commerce awarded savings bonds to the six first place winners in each category. Due to the immense amount of students who entered digital photos this year, The Foundation for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns donated three additional savings bonds for Best in Show, Expertise in Digital Imaging and Creativity in Digital Imaging. The Media Arts students composed and took their photos with digital cameras generously donated by FUJIFILM. (Posted 5/21/2007)

Spring Orchestra Concert
The Sleepy Hollow Middle and High School Spring Orchestra Concert is this Tuesday, May 29th (the day after Memorial Day) in the Washington Irving Auditorium at 7:30 PM.  If you are interested in hearing an eclectic array of string orchestra music, you are invited to attend our concert! (Posted 5/21/2007)

Tarrytown Summer School
The Tarrytown Union Free School District’s Summer School is designed to support students who have not been successful in a course of study or Regents examination during the regular school year.  In preparation for the 2007 summer school program, we have attached a description of our course offerings and registration requirements. Our summer school program will run from Monday, July 2nd  to Monday, August 13th.

Students not residing within the Tarrytown School District are invited to attend on a tuition basis.  Mail in registrations are due by Friday, June 22, 2007. Walk-in registration will take place at Washington Irving Elementary School on the following dates and times:

Wednesday, June 27th            8 – 11 am

Thursday,  June 28th              12-3 pm  (Posted 5/21/2007)

Model UN Club members participate in their second Fight Hunger: Walk the World in New York City.  
On Sunday, May 13, five members of the Sleepy Hollow High School Model UN Club and their adviser put aside Mothers’ Day festivities long enough to lend their support to the world wide Fight against Hunger, organized by the World Food Programme of the United Nations. Almost a million people were expected to walk from Auckland, New Zealand to Western Samoa during the 24 hour period, including several heads of state, to bring attention to the eradication of hunger around the world by the year 2015, one of the Millennial Goals of the United Nations. WFP headquarters located in Rome, Italy, promoted the event for the fourth consecutive year.

Walkers of all ages met at the Irish Hunger Memorial located at Battery Park. After a welcome by thewalk sponsor, TNT, representatives of the WFP gave a pep talk and reminded participants that a child dies every five seconds of hunger or hunger related effects. Following the banner, walkers enjoyed a cool sunny walk south along the Hudson River, taking in views of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, and then looped back to the departure point, covering about three miles.

The Model UN Club is open to any high school student interested in understanding the way the United Nations functions and its continuous involvement around the world since its founding in 1945. Club members attended the four day Harvard Model UN Conference in Boston where they represented the Dominican Republic in a variety of committees last December, thanks to generous funding from the Foundation of the Tarrytowns.  Members also participated in a conference at UN headquarters in March sponsored by the UNA-USA, where the role of the new UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon was defined and topics of Peace Keeping and Peace Building were debated by members of the diplomatic corps. (Posted 5/14/2007)

Sleepy Hollow High School/Middle School PTSA Meeting
May 14th, 2007 - 7:30 p.m.
High School Cafeteria 
Please join us for a facilities update:  Where we are currently and where we will be when your child returns to school in September. Update on planned Internet Safety Programs for this year and next...
Look forward to seeing you on Monday night!! (Posted 5/14/2007)

2007 Fall Sports

Starting Dates
Football                                    August 20th
All other Varsity Sports             August 27th
Modified Sports                        September 6th

Physicals will be offered during the first week of June – date to be announced

 Fall Sports Offered
Varsity                            JV                                  Modified
Football                          Football                         7th & 8th grade Football
Boys’ Soccer                  Boys’ Soccer                 Boys’ Soccer
Girls’ Soccer                  Girls’ Soccer                  Girls’ Soccer
Cross Country                Volleyball                       Cross Country
Girls’ Swimming                                                   Volleyball
Volleyball

Sleepy Hollow Pride is on the Rise     (Posted 5/14/2007)

The Great Potential Program
The Great Potential Program at Sleepy Hollow Middle and High Schools is sponsoring a Food Drive for the Homeless from  May 9th through May 25th.  We solicit your support through the donation of  non-perishable food items.  Receptacles are located in the main offices of each school.  
We thank you in advance for your support

Cheryl Burton,
Social Worker/Site Director
Sleepy Hollow Middle and High School
Great Potential Program
332-6278   (Posted 5/9/2007)

Sleepy Hollow High School Student Honored by the Boys and Girls Clubs of Northern Westchester
Sleepy Hollow High School Principal Carol Conklin is pleased to announce that high school junior Melissa Melendez has been named Boys & Girls Clubs of Northern Westchester’s Youth of the Year for 2007.  Melissa competed against other Boys & Girls Clubs for the New York State Youth of the Year title on April 16th, 17th & 18th in Albany.

The Youth of the Year program is sponsored by the Reader’s Digest Association, Inc. and is administered by the Boys and Girls Clubs of America.  This national scholarship program recognizes superior leadership skills, academic achievement, and outstanding service to the Boys and Girls Club, to the community and to one’s family.

Barbara E. Cutri, Director of Operations for the Northern Westchester Club, stated that “Melissa is a shining example of the positive impact the Boys  and Girls Club has on the lives of young people.”  Mrs. Conklin added, “Melissa is most deserving of this honor.  She has extended way beyond our community service requirement to make a real difference in her hometown.  We are very proud of her.”  Melissa’s guidance counselor, Leticia Andujar, shared, “It is an honor to have a student from Sleepy Hollow High School receive this recognition.  Melissa is a wonderful student who is very caring and considerate towards her peers.  There is no doubt in my mind that Melissa is worthy of this award.”

For further information, please contact Leticia Andujar at 914-332-6210.

Sleepy Hollow High School Student Honored by Ciba  for Excellence in Science Research
Sleepy Hollow High School Principal Carol Conklin is pleased to announce that high school senior Eric Ross will be honored by Ciba Specialty Chemicals Foundation as part of their 2007 High School Science Awards Program.  Eric will be recognized at a reception on Tuesday, May 15th at Ciba Specialty Chemicals Corporate Headquarters in Tarrytown.

When told of the award, Mrs. Conklin stated, “Eric is the perfect student to receive this recognition.  Bright and inquisitive, he has demonstrated perseverance and excellence in this project.  Eric has the kind of talent that corporations like Ciba are eager to nurture, and I have no doubt we’ll be hearing about many more achievements in years to come.  He has a wonderful future ahead of him!”  Eric’s science research teacher Mrs. Janet Longo-Abinanti added, “Eric is an amazing student.  I am happy to have had the opportunity to work with him in science research.”  The administration, faculty and staff of Sleepy Hollow congratulate Eric on this recognition.

For further information, please contact Janet Longo-Abinanti, Science Research Teacher at 914-332-6226.

Sleepy Hollow High School  Film II Class Honored at Film Festival
Sleepy Hollow High School Principal Carol Conklin is pleased to announce that the high school’s Film II class movie Ace Hendrix:  You Only Die Once was selected to be screened at the 5th annual Hendrick Hudson Film Festival last Friday, April 27th.  Ace Hendrix was one of fifteen films, selected from sixty, to be screened at the festival.  This student film festival was held at Hendrick Hudson High School in Montrose. The film was nominated in the categories of comedy, direction, performance and screenplay, and high school senior CAREY ROBINSON received the award for Best Individual Performance.

The Film II class worked an entire semester on this short film project.  In Film I, they learned director’s styles and filmmaking techniques through the analysis of contemporary films.  In Film II, they got to put it all into practice.  Using miniDV cameras and Apple Final Cut Pro for editing, the students worked the entire semester to bring this film to life.  The students in the Film II class, which was taught by David DiLeo, a teacher in the performing arts department, included Jasmine Brumley-Taub, John Campbell, Matthew Cuellar, Michael Praino, Carey Robinson and David Wu.  These students brainstormed, wrote the script, directed, filmed, acted in, and edited the movie.  They also created an original soundtrack using Apple GarageBand.  Nick Carraro, Emili Feigelson and Taylor Zolbe donated time, during their free periods, to serve as additional actors.  The film itself was 15 minutes long with the basic storyline of a washed up detective named Ace Hendrix, who was assigned to investigate when a student from a local high school goes missing.

 Both the students and Mr. DiLeo had an incredible time seeing what other schools had done in similar films and many of the students said that it was “just great” to see their film on a big screen in front of a live audience.  Mr. DiLeo added, “It has never been so easy to see that my students are learning what I am teaching them.  Everything I taught them, they gave back in the film.  It was all the assessment I needed.”  Similarly, senior John Campbell stated “Seeing the film on a big screen in front of an audience was better than any award the film could have received.” Carey Robinson stated “Film II was an awesome opportunity to see what really goes into the making of a film.  We were able to learn how the film industry works by actually doing it ourselves and having fun at the same time.”  Mrs. Conklin stated, “We are very proud of these students’ achievements on their maiden voyage into filmmaking.  I can’t wait to see what they will come up with next.”  All at Sleepy Hollow look forward to viewing the future films produced by the Film I and II classes.

 Ace Hendrix:  You Only Die Once can be viewed on Sleepy Hollow Hits via the internet at www.sleepyhollowhits.com.

For further information, please contact David DiLeo at 914-332-6223.

Sleepy Hollow High School Students Selected for Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute
Sleepy Hollow High School Principal Carol Conklin is pleased to announce that high school senior Juan Rodriguez and high school junior Emily Santana were selected, respectively, as a delegate and an alternate to this year’s Angelo Del Toro Puerto Rican Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute (HYLI).  Twelve delegates and three alternates were selected from the local region.  Juan and Emily attended a formal delegate orientation at Fordham University’s Tarrytown campus on Thursday, April 12th as well as a final orientation session on April 25th.  The Youth Leadership Institute was held in Albany from Saturday, April 28th through Monday, April 30th.

The Selection Committee reviewed a total of 39 application packets from high schools in the region.  Members of the committee observed applicants at training events as well as read their submissions, evaluated their essays and read teacher recommendations.  Students were selected for their excellent knowledge, poise and demeanor during the process.

Upon learning of two high school students being selected, Mrs. Conklin stated that “We were thrilled to have two of our students selected to participate in this fine leadership program.  Both Emily and Juan are dedicated students who work hard and achieve in this forum and in so many other ways.  They have represented our school community with distinction.  We are very proud of them.”  The administration, faculty and staff congratulate Juan and Emily on their selection.

For further information, please contact Leticia Andujar, Guidance Counselor, at 914-631-6210.

Sleepy Hollow Music Department Travels to Williamsburg
The Sleepy Hollow High School Music program recently went to Williamsburg, VA and participated in the Music in the Parks Music Festival at Busch Gardens.  Five performing groups; the Concert Band, Jazz Band, Chorus, Women's Chorus, and Orchestra all performed for top adjudicators from all over the country.  Each group gave an outstanding performance and everyone had a fun time at the beach and the park.  The trip was run by Mrs. Gail Persad, Mr. Micah Sprague, and Mrs. Brittney Trenzcer.  Congratulations to all the performers for representing Sleepy Hollow in a really positive way!

Sleepy Hollow's "ACE HENDRIX" Wins Award
The Film II class and their instructor, Mr. David DiLeo, attended the fifth annual Hendrick Hudson Film Festival this past Friday.  They were already winners in that they were chosen to show amongst 14 other films out of over 60 entrants.  On top of that, 1 Sleepy Hollow senior also took home the award for BEST INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCE that night. The class was also pleased to be able to show their movie to a live audience on the big screen.  You can now view Ace Hendrix : You Only Die Once  on the "small" screen at www.sleepyhollowhits.com (Posted 4/30/2007)

High School JazzFest to Take Place April 13 at Tarrytown Music Hall
The Tarrytown school district is sponsoring a high school jazz ensemble festival on Friday, April 13, 2007 at the Tarrytown Music Hall.   The event is an educational opportunity for area high school jazz ensembles, who will perform during the day before three well-known jazz musicians – Wycliffe Gordon, Steve Gilmore, and Tom Christensen. In the evening the judges act as guest soloists, performing along with the three top-rated bands.  The public is invited to attend the concert which beings at 7pm. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the door for $10 through the Tarrytown Music Hall Box Office, 914-631-3390.

During the day, eight high school ensembles will perform and compete for awards in the following categories: Best Latin Selection, Best Swing, Best Ballad, Outstanding Soloists, Best Brass Section, Best Saxophone Section and Best Rhythm Section. Participating schools include Sleepy Hollow, Mamaroneck, Harrison, Lakeland, Port Chester, Hackley, Warwick Valley and Pleasantville High Schools. 

The JazzFest is funded by a generous grant from Hitachi America, Ltd, with additional support from The Foundation for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns.  For more information, contact Gail Persad at 332-6223.

Sleepy Hollow High School Announces Science Research Aware Recipients
Carol Conklin, Principal of Sleepy Hollow High School, is pleased to announce that members of the Sleepy Hollow High School Science Research course received numerous awards and prizes at this weekend’s Westchester Science and Engineering Fair.   The WESEF took place at the Briarcliff Campus of Pace University on Saturday, March 17, 2007.  This exceptional group of Sleepy Hollow High School students were recognized as follows:

Jenny Aguilar is a WESEF Finalist and will present at the Intel-ISEF Fair in New Mexico in May 2007.  She earned 2nd place in the Biochemistry section.  She also earned the Excellence in Neurobiology Research award from Psychogenics Pharmaceuticals and the Intel Society for Optical Engineering Award for the best projects using optical microscopes.

Daniel Capo earned 3rd place in the Engineering section.  He also earned the ASM International Foundation Award for Excellence in research involving materials science, the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library Association Award for excellence in communication skills in engineering and the National Society of Professional Engineers Award for outstanding projects in engineering.

Gabriel Plano earned 3rd place in the Engineering section.  He also earned the ASM International Foundation Award for excellence in research involving materials science, the RIOCH Sustainable Energy Award and the US Air Force Award for Excellence in Science Research. 

Eric Ross earned the Ciba Specialty Chemicals Award for excellence in science research.

Chelsea Schoen and Rosa Bauer-Moshi earned the Entergy Research Award for excellence in advanced research and high quality presentations and the Visual Impact Award for best visual representation of a research project.

John Bonanno earned the Society for In-Vitro Biology Award for excellent research in Cell Biology.

Jesse Humm earned the Ciba Specialty Chemicals Award for excellence in science research and the US Air Force Award for excellence in science research.

Sleepy Hollow High School’s Science Research Program is a three year program offered to high school students who are interested in studying a particular area of science firsthand.  It allows students the time and flexibility to deeply explore an area of personal interest in scientific fields.  Science Research, an elective course offered through the Science Department, started eight years ago in the fall of 1997.  It provides students with the excellent opportunity to develop their research, writing and presentation skills. 

When told of Sleepy Hollow’s success, Mrs. Conklin stated, “Students learn invaluable lessons about project development that will serve them well for a lifetime through the breadth and depth of this self-directed learning process.”  Mrs. Janet Longo-Abinanti, the Science Research teacher, shared, “I am extremely proud of the work done by these students and I congratulate each of them on their success.”  The administration, faculty and staff of Sleepy Hollow High School are extremely proud of these students and are pleased that their hard work and preparation was recognized.

For further information, please contact Janet Longo-Abinanti, Science Research Teacher at 914-332-6226.

Foreign Language Honor Society Induction Ceremony
The Foreign Language Honor Society is proud to announce its 10^th induction. The ceremony will take place on Tuesday, March 27, 2007 in Washington Irving School auditorium.

The Foreign Language Honor Society is dedicated to promoting and encouraging the study and expansion of the foreign languages taught at Sleepy Hollow High School. In order to be a member the candidates have to have an average of eighty-five in three and a half years of studies of a language and participate in at least one activity sponsored by the society. This year, fifty-six juniors have fulfilled the requirements to become members of the Society.

The Foreign Language Department would like to congratulate our new members for their great achievement.  (Posted 3/14/2007)

Sleepy Hollow High School Talent Show
Sleepy Hollow High School invites you to join them for an evening of rare talent at the 2007 Sleepy Hollow High School Talent Show. Delight in your seat as you watch and listen to the fine acts brought to you by our very own immensely talented student body. Acts ranging from cover bands to break dancing and original music to step will keep you tapping your toes for hours. The Talent Show will be held Friday, March 9th, in the Washington Irving School Auditorium at 7:00pm. Tickets are $5 for students and $7for adults. This night of heartpounding entertainment should not be missed! (Posted 3/5/2007)

Want to Navigate The Steps to College With Greater Ease and Confidence?
Get advice from professionals and students at the Warner Library’s program:  ‘The Road To College: Helpful Tips for the College-Bound, on Wednesday, March 14th, 2007, 4:00 - 5:30 PM..  Learn about filling in applications, applying for scholarships, managing filing deadlines, improving interviewing and writing skills, and meeting the challenges of the first year.  Parents and students of all ages are welcome.  Come even if you’re just thinking about going to college! Call the Warner Library Reference Desk at 914-631-7734 to register.  (Posted 3/2/2007)

Students Visit South Africa
The African-American Heritage Club of Sleepy Hollow Middle/High School is traveling to South Africa during the February break.  The highlights of the trip include visits to Johannesburg, SOWETO, Capetown, Robben Island, where Mandela was imprisoned, and a Safari.  The group will be taking school supplies to donate to a school that they will be visiting.  (Posted 2/13/2007)

Please note:  The PTSA meeting scheduled for Monday, February 12 has been cancelled.  The next meeting will be held March 17, 2007 (Posted 2/9/2007)

Legends Hockey Team Steak Dinner
Second Annual Steak Dinner to benefit The LEGENDS Sleepy Hollow/Irvington High Irvington High School  School Hockey Team.  Friday, February 16th, 2007 from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.  Pre-Purchased Tickets Required.  All you can eat filet mignon, salad, dessert, & Cold Beverages.  Catering Provided by Nightingale Catering Services.  To Order Tickets contact: annchillemi "at" yahoo.com (replace "at" with @ and remove spaces) or Tel: 914-332-7844 by February 6th.  (Posted 2/5/2006)

Rotary Scholarship Information for Juniors and Parents
The Rotary Scholarship is available in the guidance office.  See your counselor for an application.  The official application deadline is April 1, however, since that date falls during spring break, all applications will need to be completed and returned to guidance  by March 23, so that they can be processed and sent to the Rotary selection committee,  by the due date. (Posted 2/2/2007)

Sleepy Hollow High School Multimedia Class Receives International Honor and Recognition
Adobe Corporation today recognized the work done by students in Mr. Mormile's multimedia class for its excellence, designating it as an Adobe Site of the Day and featuring it in the company's Customer Showcase.  This is no small achievement.  Other winners showcased alongside our students' projects include Dell Computer, Dannon Spring Water, and the Bank of America. The recognition from Adobe Corporation is as result of the students' use of "strong visual design, technical execution, usability, interesting and/or timely content, ROI and benefit to the organization."  (Click here to view the other required criteria).  More than one hundred students are involved in the development of the sleepyhollowhits.com site, and they take advantage of the latest technologies, including Dreamweaver 8 and Flash 8 and the Adobe Production Studio Premium Edition to produce the site.

Opening Doors in China
Kathleen Hull, Sleepy Hollow High School teacher, visited China over the summer to explore the possibilities of setting up student teacher exchanges.  Sleepy Hollow High School is one of three high schools in Westchester to have staff members visit China to set up student/teacher exchanges.

Sleepy Hollow Life Now Available in Your Home
Sleepy Hollow life is yours to see!  The multimedia students of Sleepy Hollow High School have used innovative technologies to create www.sleepyhollowhits.com. From UTube.com to video.google.com, video based websites are the newest rage!  Under the direction of Tom Mormile, students are using state of the art technology and high end software (Dreamweaver 8, Flash 8, and Adobe Production Studio Premium Edition) to create Sleepy Hollow’s new digital news website. 

The latest events, news, sports and classes are now going to be a part of every home computer.  Through sleepyhollowhits.com, Hollow student life is shared with peers, parents and the whole school community.  Not familiar with the Ancient Japanese technique of Rake Firing?  Well simply log onto our “classes” section of the news and see how high school art students are practicing these ancient techniques.  Any sports fans out there?  Log onto our “Sports” section and see a trailer from the latest football, soccer and fall sports seasons!  Sleepyhollowhits.com is a true reflection on student life.  There is something for everyone!

We are interested in sharing student life with the community and invite you to visit sleepyhollowhits.com.  We are currently streaming 20 videos and plan to have 40 by the end of the year.  A hosting website and streaming server is used to deliver the videos to your computer.  When you visit our site, please make sure to download the latest FREE Adobe Flash Player so that you can take advantage of the latest technology that allows you to view the videos in full screen.

The Sleepy Hollow multimedia students would like to thank Carol Conklin, John Krouskoff and Dr. Smith for making this website possible. 

 Now go out there and log onto www.sleepyhollowhits.com!  See you there!

Learner Permit Knowledge Test Now Available Electronically
The New York Department of Motor Vehicles has started an exciting new program, which allows high school students, at no cost, to take the learner permit knowledge test electronically via an internet connection at the high school.  By offering the knowledge test online, students and their parents are provided a greater level of convenience.

Sleepy Hollow High School has become one of the first public high schools in Westchester to enroll in this program.  Sleepy Hollow students age 15 and older are eligible to participate.  Tests are offered in both English and Spanish.  Students should see Mrs. Lupetin in Mr. Alterbaum’s office and provide proof of identity and date of birth.  The student will be given all of the necessary training material and an appointment will be scheduled for the student to take the test.

Once the student has passed the test, the system will print a test receipt, which can be presented at any DMV office to complete the process of receiving the learner’s permit.  It’s that simple.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment, please see Mrs. Lupetin in Mr. Alterbaum’s office. (Posted 1/2/2007)

Model UN Club attends Harvard Model UN Conference in Boston
Nine members of Sleepy Hollow High School’s Model UN Club attended the four-day Harvard Model UN Conference in Boston the weekend of December 7-10, 2006.  The students were divided among the six committees of the General Assembly, where they represented the interests and opinions of the Dominican Republic.  Club members met with delegates from other national and international teams that represented almost all of the 192 member nations of the United Nations.

Organized by Harvard students, the conference aims at teaching high school students the process followed in order to resolve some major problems faced by the United Nations.  Delegates prepare in advance for specific topics by submitting position papers.  Learning the intricacies of debates, motions, caucuses, and resolution papers, students follow the official and informal rules of international diplomacy to gain a better understanding of the goals and achievements of the enormous bureaucratic machine that is the United Nations.

In addition to committee meetings in Boston proper, students attended conferences at Harvard University where they were able to visit with a recent Sleepy Hollow graduate and former Model UN Club member.  Events to meet and interact with other delegates included an ice-cream social, a concert and a dance.  Model UN Club Advisor Claire Heskestad and Sophomore Class Advisor Nazar Rabadi chaperoned the conference.

The four day trip was financed through fundraising, parental participation, HMUN financial aid, and a generous grant from the Foundation for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns.  Public transportation was used to minimize cost.  The Club’s future endeavors include funding a humanitarian project and attending the Model United Nations Members Day at United Nations headquarters in New York City in March of 2007.

For further information, please contact Claire Heskestad, Faculty Advisor of the Model UN Club at 914-332-6228.  (Posted 1/2/2007)

Annual Blythedale Children's Hospital Visit
The Administration, Faculty and Staff of Sleepy Hollow High School announce the 21^st Annual Blythedale Children’s Hospital Toy Drive and visit.  Students from the high school will visit Blythedale on Friday, December 22^nd. 

The Blythedale Toy Drive was started over two decades ago by Joseph Cerrivino, a former member of the High School’s Foreign Language Department, and it continues to be an annual tradition that is deeply valued by the high school community.  It is viewed as an opportunity for members of the high school community to bring holiday cheer and excitement to others, as the Blythedale Toy Drive and visit enable the students to recognize the importance of giving of oneself and of being mindful of others at all times, but most especially during the holiday season.  Student “elves” see it as their “mission” to have a gift for every child at Blythedale, while the faculty, staff and administration contribute to a larger gift given to the school located within the hospital.  This year, over 85 students will be involved in the visit.  In addition to arriving by fire truck and police escort, provided by the Sleepy Hollow Police and Fire Departments, Santa and his “elves” will be joined by members of the high school chorus and jazz band.  The morning program will involve performances by these two musical groups, as well as a large group sing-along.  Then, Santa’s elves will assist the hospital staff in distributing the gifts at the end of the performances.  It is an event enjoyed by all involved.

The Blythedale Faculty Committee, as well as the student elves, would like to thank The Rotary Club of the Tarrytowns and The Teachers Association of the Tarrytowns for their continued sponsorship of the Toy Drive.  They would also like to thank all the generous individuals who have contributed individual gifts and who have made donations.  Without their assistance, the Blythedale Toy Drive would not have been possible.

For further information, please contact James Giordano, Chair of the Blythedale Toy Drive at 914-332-6228 or at jgiordano "at" tufsd.org. (Replace the "at" with @ and remove spaces) (Posted 12/14/2006)

Sleepy Hollow High School Announces Induction of National Honor Society Members
Carol Conklin, Principal of Sleepy Hollow High School, is proud to announce the induction of the newest members of the Sleepy Hollow High School Chapter of the National Honor Society.  The induction occurred on Thursday, October 26, 2006 at Winfield L. Morse School.  In total, 56 students were inducted:  nine seniors and 47 juniors.

Students who obtain an 85 weighted average or better are eligible to apply for membership.  Those invited to apply must complete an activity report, as well as write an essay on leadership.  All eligible members are evaluated by the faculty in the areas of service, character and leadership.  The submitted applications and the faculty vote are reviewed by a faculty council representing the four core academic subjects and the guidance department.  Those who meet the requirements of membership are invited to become members of the society.  Once members, students are encouraged to uphold the fundamental values of the National Honor Society.

The Sleepy Hollow Players Presents: Check Please! & Hard Candy
The Sleepy Hollow Players will perform two plays by John Rand.  Check Please! Dating has never been so disastrous! and Hard Candy.  Looking for your dream job? Then you must survive this nightmare of an interview!  Come for the Comedy and support the arts!  Nov. 17^th and 18^th at the Morse Auditorium  $5 for students, $8 for adults. (Posted 11/15/2006)

"Sleepy Wear" is Back!
Don't miss this opportunity to support the PSTA by ordering your "Sleepy Wear" today.  All orders must be in by November 10th.  Click here to print order form or stop by the Sleepy Hollow Middle School or Sleepy Hollow High School offices to pick up a form.  Items will be available in early December.  (Posted 10/23/2006)

Grey Hooded Cotton Sweatshirt $25.00	Grey Cotton Boy's T-Shirt $12.00	Black Cotton" Girl's Cut T-Shirt $15.00	Red & Black Flannel PJ Pants $22.00

Sleepy Hollow Music Department Holiday Craft Fair
We invite you to come and be a part of our Sleepy Hollow craft fair Saturday, December 9, 2006.  Spaces are located in our High School cafeteria and surrounding halls where they are measured 4’X15’.  The cost is $30.00 per space.  For additional $3.00, a table and two chairs may be rented from the school.

Each vendor is required to donate one craft item that will be used in the school raffle run during the fair.  We ask that the value of the donated item be at least $5.00.  A complimentary raffle ticket for each vendor is included in our gratuity package.  Click here for more information and registration form.  (Posted 10/13/2006)

Read the School Newspaper Online! 
The editors, reporters, advisors, and other staff members of the school newspaper have been busy getting the first issue ready for distribution.  If you would like to read the school newspaper, click either the image to the right or the hyperlink above and you can download a web version of the first issue of this year's Hoofprints! This file is 2.8MB, so we recommend a high speed internet connection.
This document requires Adobe Acrobat reader, which can be downloaded by clicking here.  (Posted 10/12/2006)

Sleepy Hollow MS/HS PTSA Meeting Monday, October 16 at 7:30 PM in the high school cafeteria.  The topic is:  Keeping up with the Changes:  Your Teenager's Transformation.  Speakers will be Ellen Kaplan, school psychologist and Helen Hastings, student assistance counselor.

Please Note:  The 10th Grade Parent Coffee scheduled for October 18 in the Principal's conference room has been rescheduled to October 19, same time and place.

Foreign Language Society's Annual International Banquet
The Foreign Language Honor Society proudly presents its annual International Banquet~Columbus Cuisine~Dinner will be served on Thursday, October 19 at the cafeteria of Sleepy Hollow High School at 6:00 pm. (Posted 10/6/2006)

Sleepy Hollow High School seniors named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists
Carol Conklin, Principal of Sleepy Hollow High School, announced today that three seniors have been named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists.  They are among 16,000 national Semifinalists in the 52^nd annual National Merit Scholarship Program.  These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 8,200 Merit Scholarship awards, worth $33 million, that will be offered next spring.

More than 1.4 million juniors in nearly 21,000 high schools entered the 2007 National Merit Program by taking the 2005 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), which served as an initial screen of program entrants.  The nationwide Semifinalists named in the 2007 National Merit Scholarship Program pool of Semifinalists, which represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, includes the highest scoring entrants in each state.  The number of Semifinalists in a state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors.

To become a Finalist, a Semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by the school principal, and earn SAT scores that confirm the student’s earlier qualifying test performance.  The Semifinalist and a school official must submit a detailed scholarship application, which includes the student’s self-descriptive essay and information about the Semifinalist’s participation and leadership in school and community activities.

Approximately 15,000 Semifinalists will advance to the Finalist level and it is from this group that all Merit Scholarship winners will be chosen.  Merit Scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies, without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin, or religious preference.

Mrs. Conklin added “We are extremely proud of the achievements of these students and the national recognition they have received.  We wish them our very best as they go forth in the National Merit Scholarship Program Competition.”

For further information, please contact Cheryl Greene, Assistant Principal for Pupil Services at 914-332-6209.

August, 2006

Dear Students and Parents/Guardians:

It is my pleasure to begin welcoming you back to school on behalf of the faculty and staff.  We hope you and your family are enjoying a wonderful summer, and that you are looking forward to a productive new school year.

We are very busy this summer hiring new staff, revising curriculum and readying the building for your return. New faculty has been hired in English, mathematics, science and social studies.  These new teachers will work with students at various grade levels in our high school.  The selection of new staff is the result of lengthy interview processes, thanks to all the students, parents and teachers who joined us in committee interviews and demonstration lessons this spring and summer.

The district continues phasing its new student information system, and we are experiencing some additional growing pains with the scheduling process.  As a result, completion of the master schedule and finalizing of student schedules has been delayed.  We are anticipating mailing student schedules home the week of August 21^st and ask that you bear with us as we continue to make this transition. Counselors will be available to work with you on any necessary modifications the week prior to school opening.

The official groundbreaking ceremony for Sleepy Hollow’s additions and renovations was held on July 11^th, with site work demolition (aided by a tornado) beginning a day later.  While we are very excited that the facilities project is under way, the day-to-day impact of construction certainly presents its share of challenges. Through every phase of the project we will do our best to minimize the impact on students; you will receive updates on a regular basis from our superintendent, Dr. Smith. 

Please note that our phone lines were hit with the tornado, and will likely be out for several more weeks.  To contact the main office or the principal’s office in the meantime, please call 332-6202 or 6203.

HERE IS WHAT’S HAPPENING WITH CONSTRUCTION:
During this school year, construction activity will be limited to the West Wing addition in front of the building and the back parking lot where the new gym and auditorium are being built.  The main driveway is blocked off with no thru traffic, and the front lobby is closed.  Two temporary main entrances have been established – one on the north side of the building and the other on the south side.  Middle and high school students, staff and visitors are welcome to enter either.  A turn-around loop has been created at the south end of the building near the administration building by the Broadway entrance.  This will allow cars to drop-off or pick-up students and then return to Broadway.  A turn-around loop has also been created at the north end of the building to facilitate the pick-up or drop-off of students entering from Bedford Road.  Busses will only drop-off and pick-up students at the north end of the school using the Bedford Road entrance.   

Several accommodations are in place to compensate for the temporary loss of the music wing, auditorium and The Quad.  The only entry to the gymnasium and locker rooms will be through the outside doors on the north side of the building.  During the school day, students will need to walk outside under a covered walkway to access the gym.   Orchestra has been relocated to John Paulding; all rehearsals and lessons will take place there.  Classrooms have been created for band, chorus, guitar and other music classes across from the cafeteria (in what used to be the assistant principal’s office and teacher’s room.)  Band rehearsals will take place in the south side of the cafeteria and chorus will rehearse in the lobby. 

The West Wing construction will block existing classroom windows; in this situation, state regulations require us to provide open classrooms into the hallways, with no doors or other barriers. Fresh air will come from the hall windows, with ventilation enhanced by air conditioners and fans. We will work with students and teachers to minimize noise and distraction.  Lockers will be relocated to Upper East.  We have also relocated the multimedia and computer art rooms to North Hall.  

While we know that the inconvenience of construction will be worth it in the long run, we also know that some students, in particular our upperclassmen, will have to put up with all the inconvenience and graduate before they are able to reap the benefits of the new construction.  I promise you, that we will work closely with students to make sure that each year of their high school experience is a memorable one regardless of what is happening with our facility.          

INVITATION TO FRESHMEN PARENTS:
Parents of incoming 9^th graders are invited to a Principal’s Coffee Chat in the main office conference room so we can help acclimate you to high school. There is no formal presentation, so bring your questions. Please RSVP to Mimi Lorador by August 22^nd at 332-6202 if you are planning to attend.

Tuesday August 29^th
8:00 – 8:45 AM
Making the Transition to High School – What Can a Parent Expect?

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL:
The first day of school is Thursday, September 7^th.  The high school will run a special activity day schedule; with students assigned to events all day long by grade level and homeroom. High school classes will begin meeting on Friday, which will be cycle day 1.

ELIGIBILTY:
Practices for fall JV and Varsity sports will commence mid-August. No student may participate unless they have been cleared medically.  All students must be academically eligible to participate in athletics and other school activities.  Last school year’s academic achievement determines eligibility for the fall.  For questions about eligibility status or for a copy of our policy, please contact Mr. Alterbaum.

LUNCH/LEAVING CAMPUS:
No student may leave campus during the day without appropriate parental permission.  Students in 9^th and 10^th grades may not leave at any time unless a parent or guardian signs them out of school. Students in 11^th and 12^th grade in good academic standing, who demonstrate good school citizenship, are afforded the privilege of leaving campus (on foot – no driving) during their lunch period.  Parents must notify us in writing if they do not want their 11^th or 12^th grader to leave school grounds during lunch.

ATTENDANCE:
We expect every student to attend school every day and to arrive on time.  Student absences must be called in to the attendance office, 332-6205 by 9:30 AM, and a note confirming the absence – indicating the date(s) and reason(s) signed by a parent or guardian must be presented when a student returns to school.  Students arriving late must be signed in by a parent/guardian or arrive with a note confirming the arrival time and the reason for being tardy.  We make every attempt to notify parents of a student absence when we do not hear from a parent; this includes use of an automated message system.  Parents, please be sure we have day time and mobile telephone numbers where you can be reached in the event we need to contact you.

We will be sending home later this month a print out of the contact information we have on file for you to review and update.

SIGNING OUT OF SCHOOL:
Students who need to leave school early must come to school that day with a note signed by a parent or guardian, this note MUST INCLUDE a telephone number where the parent or guardian may be contacted.  Without a note, a student is not permitted to sign out of school.  Verbal permission for signing out over the phone is insufficient.  In the absence of a note, a parent or guardian will have to come to the receptionist’s desk in the main office next to the lobby and sign his or her child out of school in person.  These rules apply to students eighteen or older as well, unless we receive different written instructions from parents.

BELL SCHEDULE:
Please note on a regular bell schedule, the day begins at 7:45 AM with period one for performing arts and other select classes and at 8:30 AM with period 2 for everyone else.

VOICE MAIL:
An updated voice mail directory will be sent to you for your reference during the month of September.  If at any time you wish to leave a message and do not have the mailbox number, call our main office number 631-8838 and the receptionist will connect you.

BUSES:
This year, the transportation department will be issuing bus passes for those high school students eligible for transportation.  Only those students presenting passes will be permitted to take the bus.  Passes will be sent later this month when we mail home your schedule. If you have any questions, contact Mr. Cyril Hughes at 631-3663. Two AM bus pick-ups are scheduled to accommodate students scheduled for period one classes. Beginning September 11^th, late busses will be available at 4:15 PM and 5:15 PM for all students eligible to receive transportation.

WALKERS:
All students should enter through either of the temporary main entrances on the north and south sides of the building.

DROP OFF/PICK UP:
The main entrance and the back parking lot are no longer accessible and no thru traffic is permitted while the front of the building is under construction.  Two drop-off points on turn around circles are available at both the north and south sides of the building, allowing vehicles to enter and depart from either Bedford Road or Broadway.  For everyone’s safety, it is important that new traffic rules are carefully followed.

EARLY ARRIVAL:
The building is closed to students before 7:30 AM unless scheduled for a specific appointment with a staff member. 

VISITORS:
Parents are always welcome at school.  All visitors, including parents, must enter through either of the temporary main entrances, sign in and be issued a “Visitors Pass” before they may continue through the building.  Visitors’ parking area is located at both the north and south entrances.  Handicapped parking and ramp access to the main office is available on the north side of the building only.

CODE OF CONDUCT/ STUDENT HANDBOOK
We establish school rules and procedures in accordance with the district’s code of conduct.  The Code was developed with input from teachers, parents, students and administrators and adopted by the Board of Education based upon the principles of civility, mutual respect, citizenship, character, appreciation of differences, honesty and integrity; written to help ensure a safe and orderly learning environment for all of our students.  It applies to all students, staff, parents and visitors when on school property or attending school functions.  There have been no changes to The Code since it was distributed to families last year, you may access it from our website at tufsd.org.  If you would like an additional copy mailed to you, please contact our main office.

On opening day each student receives an agenda book to be used daily to track assignments and plan efficiently.

In the front of this agenda book is a student handbook detailing school rules and regulations.  These represent the plain language version of our code of conduct; a copy is enclosed for your reference.  Every student is responsible for familiarizing him/herself with these rules and abiding by them.  On the first day of school students will sign a card acknowledging receipt of this book and their responsibility for knowing and following school rules. 

Parents/guardians are encouraged to review the agenda book often as a means of keeping abreast of student progress. We urge you to review the student handbook with your child and discuss its contents. Please pay careful attention to rules that govern the use of cell phones and other electronic devices, which are prohibited during the school day.

E-MAIL COMMUNICATION:
We are constantly exploring ways to strengthen home/school communication; and are building an email directory. If you would like to have notices sent to you via email, please send your email address to Bonnie Berry at: bberry@tufsd.org.

SAT PREP:
We will offer this course in the fall and spring for juniors and seniors, contact your counselor if you have questions or need additional information, a flyer is enclosed with dates and times.

SCHOOL PICTURES:
School pictures for underclassmen are scheduled for October 16^th and 17^th, and senior portraits later this month.  Davis Studios will contact seniors directly to schedule sittings, which will take place in air-conditioned classrooms in North Hall

SUPPLIES:
High school students should all have a loose-leaf notebook with dividers, pens, pencils and a highlighter.  You will get information about other specific supply needs from your teachers during the first week of school. 

FREE AND REDUCED LUNCH:
Enclosed is the application for free and reduced lunch.  Applications must be processed annually, so please review and send in as soon as possible.  Completed applications can be submitted to Mrs. Lupetin in Mr. Alterbaum’s office.

STUDENT ASSISTANCE COUNSELING:
Sleepy Hollow Middle and High School is continuing a Student Assistance Program for the 2006-2007 school year. The program will provide alcohol, tobacco, and other drug prevention activities and counseling services to students.  If you are worried about your child's behavior and would like to speak to the Student Assistance Counselor and/or see your child, please call her directly at 332-6229. A letter explaining the program and the confidentiality afforded students who work with Mrs. Hastings is enclosed.

WHO CAN I CONTACT IF I HAVE A QUESTION?
If you have questions about student placement, assessment or academic plans, the school counselor is a great place to begin. The number for the guidance office is 332-6207, the secretary, Mrs. Grasso can direct you from there. 

If you have a question involving a student disciplinary matter or attendance, contact Mr. Alan Alterbaum at 332-6203. 

You are always welcome to contact our main office at 631-8838, our receptionist, Mrs. Lorador can assist you in connecting to middle school and high school staff. The principal’s secretary, Ms. Berry can be reached at 332-6201; she can assist you if I am unavailable when you call.

Questions about a course of study can be addressed directly to a teacher or directed to the department chair or administrator responsible for program, curriculum and staff supervision in a given discipline:

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

We are fortunate to have the support of outstanding organizations such as our PTSA, Performing Arts Boosters, Sports Boosters, and the Foundation for the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns.  Please read the enclosed notices and benefit our students and our school through membership and by participating in scheduled activities whatever way you can.

We believe that there are a few fundamental guiding principles that are the keys to being successful in school, and we build our program upon this foundation.  This year, we will be paying particular attention to the “4 Be’s” through the PBIS initiative (additional information on these plans is enclosed).  I invite you to join us in focusing on the positives as we strengthen these basic tenets of school success for all students.

For Students and Staff:

            BE HERE...                           EVERY CLASS, EVERY DAY

            BE PREPARED...                  TO DO YOUR BEST WORK

            BE RESPECTFUL...              OF SELF AND OTHERS

            BE POSITIVE...                     THINK YOU CAN, AND YOU WILL

For Parents:

            BE INVOLVED...                  CALL AND VISIT OFTEN

The coming school year will hold its share of joys and struggles for us all. Students, expect great things of yourself (we do,) and settle for nothing less (we won’t either.)  Mr. Alterbaum, Mrs. Greene and I, along with the entire faculty and staff wish you a successful and productive school year.  If you have any questions or concerns, now or at any time during the school year, please be sure to contact us.

Sincerely yours,
Carol L. Conklin
Principal  

The Public Schools of the Tarrytowns is Now Offering Parents and Guardians the Ability to Make Changes to Their Student Emergency Information Online! 
Gone are the days of filling in multiple forms and returning a variety of cards and the important information back to each school in September! This month, parents/guardians will receive a back-to–school packet that contains a letter from the superintendent, a copy of the information the district currently has on file for each child, a student ID and password so parents/guardians can make any changes online through our secure web portal, and instructions for doing so. Parent/guardians can click on the link below or the image above and enter in the student ID and password printed on the sheet that was mailed home and access the system.  The district recently partnered with K12 Alerts® to provide this system, as well as an emergency alerts system for phone, email and text messaging to cellphones. (Click here for more information)

Sleepy Hollow Middle & High School Summer School
The Tarrytown Union Free School District will be offering several courses for High School students during the Summer of 2006 at Sleepy Hollow MS/HS. The courses are for students who need remediation for Regents Examinations and to attain credit for a failed class. Students not residing in the Tarrytown School District who wish to attend on a tuition basis must complete the attached form and receive permission from their home school. (Read more).  Posted 6/21/2006).

Middle School Final Exam Schedule

Digital and Print Yearbook Now Available!
Sleepy Hollow High School seniors will attend a senior breakfast this morning and receive their yearbooks, both a digital and print version.  To view a low bandwidth, 9.75 MB excerpt from the dozens included on the digital yearbook, click here and experience Teleporters (or click here if the site is busy or slow).  The high school seniors will also have an opportunity to vote online in the Sleepy Hollow Video Awards for the 2006 Digital Yearbook.  Sleepy Hollow students, click here to cast your vote!  A full length feature article highlighting this year's digital yearbook appears in today's Journal News.(Posted 6/13/2006)

Thank You from the Warner Library
The Warner Library would like to thank Mr. Nazir Rabadi and his AP Statistics class for the wonderful job they did in tallying the responses on our 'Teen Room Satisfaction Survey'.  The information that was provided will go a long way towards helping the library create an appealing teen a