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

Third, fourth and fifth grade students from John F. Kennedy Intermediate School kicked off the holiday season last week with two back-to-back winter concerts, held in the school’s gymnasium and attended by proud families. Under the guidance of Orchestra Director Jake Cosentino, Band Director Eric Gottesman and Chorus Director Kristen Lombardo, the developing young musicians delivered a series of impressive performances. Highlights included a thunderous rendition of “Tyrannosaurus Rocks” by the JFK Advanced Band, which opened the second concert, and a beautiful performance of the Catalonian carol “El Desembre Congelat” by the chorus.

Date Added: 12/15/2025

John F. Kennedy Intermediate School was recently recognized by Suffolk County Suffolk County Legislator Tom Donnelly with a proclamation honoring the school as an outstanding educational establishment. The visit coincided with the unveiling of a new book vending machine, donated by Mr. and Mrs. Joseph DelVillar in memory of their daughter, Jennifer Capone.

Capone, a beloved former district employee, was known for her commitment to ensuring that every student felt included and valued. The new vending machine honors that legacy by promoting kindness schoolwide. When students at JFK are “caught being kind,” they receive a ticket that enters them into a monthly drawing. Winners will receive a token to choose a book from the vending machine.

Date Added: 12/3/2025