John F. Kennedy Intermediate School held its annual holiday sing-a-long on Dec. 22, led by the school’s talented music department. The event featured Kristen Lombardo on vocals, Jake Cosentino on violin, Greg Gullotti on guitar, Eric Gottesman on bass, and special guest middle school music teacher William Green on drums. Students and staff filled the gym, singing holiday favorites and celebrating the season together.

“This has become one of our favorite days of the year," Lombardo said. The energy in the room is palpable and the holiday spirit is tremendous. It’s also a chance for the music department to showcase their talents and have so much fun with the school community. What a great way to bring 2025 to a close!"

Date Added: 12/23/2025

Robert Frost Middle School and John Quincy Adams Primary School ENL students recently came together to celebrate the season during a joyful cross-grade visit. Frost students from Christy Villalobos’ class visited ENL students at JQA, where they read a gingerbread-themed story, created their own gingerbread houses and played a lively game of holiday bingo. The visit concluded with a festive dance party filled with music, laughter and smiles. 

“This annual tradition is a special opportunity for our English language learners to build connections across grade levels, strengthen their sense of community and celebrate the holidays,” JQA teacher Maria Cacoperdo said.

Date Added: 12/23/2025

Four classes at John F. Kennedy Intermediate School recently joined together to give back to the community by sponsoring a dog named Hunter from the Babylon Animal Shelter. The students collected much-needed supplies for the shelter while learning the importance of compassion, responsibility and giving back during the holiday season.

Date Added: 12/20/2025

John F. Kennedy Intermediate School fifth graders recently took part in the annual “Day in Clay” art experience, giving them the opportunity to create either a bowl or a plate while experimenting with a variety of clay and texture tools. Students personalized their pieces with their own creative designs before adding color using clay glaze.

“Our students look forward to this project every year, and it’s always a lot of fun to see what they come up with,” teacher Briana Fayans said. 

Date Added: 12/18/2025

The student government at John F. Kennedy Intermediate School once again hosted its annual Candy Cane for a Cause fundraiser, partnering this year with the Warrior Joseph Toy Drive to support children at Cohen’s Children’s Medical Center.

The toy drive was founded by the family of Joseph Baggio, a third-grade student who spent eight months receiving care at Cohen’s and understands firsthand the comfort a toy can bring during a hospital stay. Inspired by his experience, Joseph asked to collect toys for hospitalized children instead of receiving Christmas gifts of his own. With the support of his family, the Warrior Joseph Toy Drive was created to encourage children facing serious medical challenges.

“Not only is Joseph a warrior for what he overcame, but he is also a warrior for others, as he helps bring joy to those who are fighting their fight, letting each child know they are not alone,” JFK teacher Darlene Matulich said.

Working together, the JFK school community collected more than 100 toys, all of which were donated to Cohen’s Children’s Medical Center. The effort highlighted the power of student leadership and community coming together to make a difference.

Date Added: 12/16/2025