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Schools

Pat-Med Board Works to Improve Student Life

Board members discussed programs and efforts to be put forth in the school district at Monday's meeting

Matters to improve student life and academics were discussed at the Patchogue Medford School District Board of Education meeting on Monday at South Ocean Middle School.

In his report, Superintendent Michael Locantore asked Assistant Superintendent for Instruction Lori Cannetti to explain the latest Scholastic program in an effort to raise test scores for each school in the district.  

“There’s been a substantial gain in test scores,” Cannetti said. “All the principals have been trained to read the results and really see the progress and how well the students are working with the program.”

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Locantore and board members expressed their support and gratitude for the program, announcing the reality of the state’s conventional low test scores.

“We’re going to get the show on the road and go out to the community and give them the exact information on the state’s criteria,” Locantore said. “It’s an outstanding program and we’re moving in the right direction.”

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In other efforts to improve the district, Locantore and board member Joseph Loschiavo are putting together a committee to be implemented by next summer that focuses on the Dignity for all Students Act, a state mandated policy on anti-bullying.

“We can talk about test scores, we can talk about funding, but if a child doesn’t feel safe in school, they’re going to learn to their fullest potential,” Loschiavo said. “I think it’s a very welcoming thing that the state finally got right, and I’d be more than happy to serve on this committee.”

The Board also recognized former and current students who contributed to the mural at the Shorefront Park bandshell.

“It came out absolutely amazing, my hope is that we can extend these services to other buildings in Patchogue,” Loschiavo said.

After the consent agenda was briefly discussed, Loschiavo recommended the district obtain the on the murder of , a Patchogue teenager, to screen in classes so students can learn about the event and how the community overcame it.

“I was so moved that this documentary was put together,” Loschiavo said. “I’d like the district to use it as a learning tool so this doesn’t happen again in 10 years. My hope is that we can learn this inspiring message and keep that positive message alive.”

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