Islip Union Free School District

Led by fourth-grade teacher Cathy Nieves, a breast cancer survivor and former CRES student, the initiative raises awareness and funds for breast cancer support. Proceeds benefit the Jeanette Feminella Scholarship Fund—honoring the beloved former principal—and the Islip Breast Cancer Coalition (IBCC). Students and staff wore special 10th Anniversary Power of Pink shirts and filled the hallways with pink ribbons honoring fighters and survivors. Students sold $2 awareness items daily and took part in morning announcements promoting kindness, empathy, and community giving. “Watching the students sell items with joy in their eyes is so rewarding—they’re excited to be helping people,” said Ms. Nieves.

The Islip Teachers Association (ITA) held its first-ever Islip STANDS UP TO CANCER fundraiser, bringing together the entire faculty, staff, and administration of the Islip School District in a powerful show of unity and compassion. Partnering with Pride Embroidery of Bay Shore, the association successfully raised nearly $3,000 to support cancer research. The campaign reflects the strength and solidarity of the Islip school community, with more than 350 faculty and staff members from every department participating in the initiative. Throughout October, teachers, administrators, staff, and members of the Board of Education will proudly wear fundraiser-specific apparel to raise awareness and show their continued commitment to the cause. “It is absolutely awesome that over 350 faculty and staff members from all departments participated in this very important event,” said Robb Le Vien, president of the Islip Teachers Association.

Islip High School’s 2025 Homecoming was a true showcase of community pride, capped off by a commanding 48-20 victory over Wyandanch. From start to finish, the day was filled with the unmistakable energy that defines what it means to be a Buccaneer. The afternoon began with a spirited parade that wound through the streets of Islip, featuring colorful floats, proud student organizations, and local community groups waving the school's colors, purple and gold. Families lined the route, cheering as the marching band set the rhythm and the cheerleaders spread excitement for the big game ahead. Following the parade, the Homecoming Carnival brought the community together on the high school fields with food, games, and fun for all ages. It was a festive reminder of the close-knit bond that connects Islip students, alumni, and families across generations.

The Islip community came together in a special way to honor its newest Hall of Fame inductees during the 2025 ceremony. The celebration began at the Hall of Fame wall in the Islip High School lobby, where inductees and their families gathered to view their newly installed plaques, a permanent reminder of their contributions to the school’s proud history. This year’s class included the late Mr. Bill Evert, a beloved former business teacher who made a lasting impact on countless students; Katie Hyland, a standout former Islip Varsity soccer player who earned All-State recognition; and the legendary 1991 and 1992 Islip Varsity Football teams, whose achievements continue to inspire Buccaneers more than three decades later. Following the emotional visit to the high school, the community moved to Marconi Manor for the official induction ceremony.

The Buccaneer spirit was on full display today as Islip High School came together for a spirited and memorable pep rally in advance of tomorrow’s Homecoming festivities. Students and staff filled the gym with excitement as the community rallied behind their teams and proudly displayed their Buccaneer spirit. The rally featured energetic performances from the cheer team, spirited music from the band, and plenty of moments that highlighted the unity and pride that define Islip. Student-athletes and clubs were recognized, and the energy in the building set the perfect tone for a weekend full of celebration. It’s shaping up to be an unforgettable weekend for the Islip community, one filled with tradition, pride, and plenty of Buccaneer spirit.