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Harborfields Central School District

Each Child. Each Day. One Harborfields Family.

Dr. Manning's 5-Minute Weekly Update

Posted Date: 10/05/25 (10:00 AM)

Dr. Manning's 5-Minute Weekly Update | October 5, 2025
 

Superintendent's Message
 
I had the pleasure of joining with OMS students and staff to celebrate Fenway, OMS’s resident therapy dog, who turned 7 this week! The library was buzzing with her fans, and her birthday was the perfect chance to thank Fenway for all the joy and support she brings to our students every day.  
  
Click on any of the pictures in this newsletter for more information. 

Easing Into October!

September seemed to have gone by in a flash! It was a pleasure to see all of our families at all of our evening programs and other fun-filled events.  Our students are definitely in their "groove" with our youngest learners accustomed to their daily routines, our middle school students are now experts at getting around their school, and our high school students are riding the momentum of spirit-filled activities and exciting athletic contests. The energy in our halls and classrooms is inspiring, and I look forward to celebrating all that our students and staff will achieve together in October.

Upcoming Deskside Chat with the Superintendent

Please consider joining me as I sit down with SEPTA for the first Deskside Chat of the new school year. The meeting will be held in the OMS Library on Tuesday, October 7th at 7:00 PM. 


What's Happening at TJL?

You may have noticed some construction going on in front of TJL. The installation of brick piers is part of the security fencing that will soon secure the front of Thomas J. Lahey Elementary School. This was one of many security enhancements included in the 2024 Capital Bond Project. Click on the picture below to see more work that was done this summer.
 
 

October is National Principals Month 
October is National Principals Month, and we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the amazing principals who lead our schools. Their dedication, passion, and commitment shape the educational experiences of our students and foster positive school cultures.

Every day, our principals inspire teachers, staff, and students to strive for their best. They navigate challenges with grace and create environments where every student can thrive. This month, join us in recognizing and thanking these remarkable leaders.

To our wonderful principals, Ms. McNally, Ms. Washington, Ms. Corr, and Dr. Farrelly, thank you for all that you do. Your leadership and tireless efforts make a profound difference. I hope our Harborfields community will take a moment to thank a principal and show our appreciation for their invaluable contributions to our schools and communities. 


 School Custodian Appreciation Day
October 2 was School Custodian Appreciation Day. Our incredible custodians ensure our facilities are safe, secure, and always in good working order - we'd be a mess without them! If you see a custodian, be sure to thank them for all they do!

School of Distinction - Harborfields High School

We are proud to announce that Harborfields High School was named a NYSPHSAA School of Distinction for the third year in a row. This award goes to schools that have 100% of their varsity teams named NYS scholar-athlete teams. Congratulations to our staff, coaches, and student-athletes on this well-deserved recognition. 


Community Art Spotlight

Original artwork by retired Harborfields High School art teacher Faye Graber is on display at the Trinity Community Art Center now through October 18. Stop by to see this amazing artist’s work! 




Here are some of my favorite moments from this past week:

Harborfields High School

17 new members were inducted into the Tri-M Music Honor Society, bringing the group’s total to 35. Three honorary members were also recognized: Dr. Philip Farrelly, Dr. Becky D'Orsogna, and Dr. Jeannette Wojcik. The string ensemble provided music for the ceremony, and guest speaker Dr. Jason Giachetti inspired students to pursue their musical passions. It was a wonderful celebration of our talented student musicians and the community of educators and leaders who support and inspire them. 

 


Oldfield Middle School

Mike Magic brought an important message to OMS during his interactive and educational assembly on bullying. His presentation captivated our middle school students while promoting kindness, respect, individuality, and so much more. 

 

Thomas J. Lahey Elementary School
 

With fall comes football, and at TJL, students are loving the football unit in Physical Education classes. Lots of teamwork, passing, kicking, and most importantly, big smiles all around. 

 


Washington Drive Primary School

Ms. Aliperti’s classroom was transformed into a scene from outerspace. In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, students learned about Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic woman to go to space!

 


ANNOUNCEMENTS AND SHOUTOUTS


Congratulations - Outstanding Service Recognition!


We are excited to share that OMS social worker Ms. Kirsten Leonard will be honored at The Viola Project Gala this November. This is a well-deserved recognition of her tireless efforts to support families throughout our district. Her expertise, compassion, and steadfast commitment to the Harborfields community exemplify the very best of the profession. Congratulations, Ms. Leonard! 

 

 


Each Child. Each Day. One Harborfields Family