Amagansett Named Blue Ribbon School
Amagansett School has been recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School for 2023 by the U.S. Department of Education.
“This is a magnificent honor for Amagansett School,” said Amagansett School Superintendent Seth Turner. “I am proud the U.S. Department of Education has acknowledged the tremendous work done by our students, teachers, administrators, staff, and board members. This award is something the entire Amagansett School community will celebrate.”
The National Blue Ribbon School award for Amagansett School is based on the overall academic performance of all students. Amagansett School qualified as a National Blue Ribbon School in the Exemplary High-Performing School category, as it is considered among New York State’s highest performing schools on measures of state assessments or nationally normed tests. In order to meet the established threshold for nomination as an Exemplary High-Performing School, Amagansett School students performed in the top 15 percent in New York State in Reading/English Language Arts and Math.
During the 2022-23 school year, Principal Maria Dorr led a team of Amagansett educators through a comprehensive application process. Throughout the process, the team focused on how the school continually assesses and adjusts curriculum and teaching strategies to meet the evolving needs of diverse students. Upon learning that the U.S. Department of Education selected Amagansett School, Principal Dorr remarked, “Through unwavering dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and the nurturing of young minds, Amagansett School has truly earned its place among the elite. This National Blue Ribbon recognition is a testament to the motivated students, dedicated teachers, and supportive community that make our school a beacon of inspiration and achievement. This award symbolizes our commitment to raising it even higher.”
According to the U.S. Department of Education, “National Blue Ribbon School leaders articulate a vision of excellence and hold everyone to high standards. They demonstrate effective and innovative teaching and learning, and the schools value and support teachers and staff through meaningful professional learning. Data from many sources are used to drive instruction and every student strives for success. Families, communities, and educators work together toward common goals.” In November 2023, representatives from Amagansett School will travel to Washington, D.C. for the National Blue Ribbon Schools Recognition Ceremony where they will receive the National Blue Ribbon School flag.
Sag Harbor Elementary Family BBQ and Concert
Families of Sag Harbor Elementary students gathered on the school lawn for a back-to-school kickoff barbecue on September 15. Families, students, faculty and staff met in a festive environment, celebrating what the academic year has in store. After the barbecue, everyone was invited to the tennis courts to listen to live jazz.
The jazz band included a collective group of jazz enthusiast lead by Tom Manuel, director of the Young Artist Jazz Program in the department of music at Stony Brook University. While Manuel stood at the head playing the trumpet, students also got to hear instruments like the saxophone, cello, clarinet and keyboard.
As a professor teaching the history of jazz at Stony Brook University, Manuel was sure to give interesting facts and quiz questions to his Sag Harbor Elementary audience. From classic jazz tunes to songs with a tango rhythm or Latin beat, the students learned about different cultural music and a bit on where they came from. To join along with some of the songs, Manuel encouraged the families and students to clap along to a clave rhythm.
Staff Writer on Sep 28, 2023