The Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District Board of Education kicked off the 2025-2026 school year with its annual reorganization meeting on July 1. The meeting was held in the auditorium of Oyster Bay High School.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Francesco Ianni took the oath of office and newly elected board trustee James Rickard was sworn in along with incumbent Michael Schindler. Together, the board elected Nancy Castrogiovanni as board president and Maryann Santos as board vice president. Both took the oath of office to uphold their duties for the 2025-2026 school year. Giovanna Lisa was sworn in as the student ex-officio member.

In addition, Susan Walsh was re-appointed as district clerk and sworn in, along with acting clerk Maureen Raynor and treasurer Lisa Scognamillo. The district looks forward to a successful school year ahead.

Date Added: 7/2/2025

On the morning of Saturday, June 28, Oyster Bay High School proudly celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2025. While early rain showers forced the ceremony indoors to the school gymnasium, the change in venue did little to dampen the spirit of the day, which was filled with tradition, pride and heartfelt reflection.

The graduates made their entrance to the familiar strains of “Pomp and Circumstance,” performed by the Oyster Bay High School Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble. Senior Class President Jenna Angelidakis led the Pledge of Allegiance, joined by fellow senior Anastasia Sakellis, who provided a translation in American Sign Language (ASL). The National Anthem followed, beautifully performed by the Oyster Bay Chamber Singers and signed by senior members of the ASL program, symbolizing the inclusivity and unity of the graduating class.

Principal Melissa Argaman opened the ceremony with welcoming remarks before Salutatorian Michael Olivero took the stage to deliver an address filled with energy and gratitude. He closed his speech with a spirited call to his classmates: “Bleed purple and gold, baby!”

Superintendent Dr. Francesco Ianni acknowledged the weather challenges that moved the ceremony indoors but reminded the graduates that “you are the sunshine,” emphasizing that their brightness and potential far outweighed any storm.

Valedictorian Rose Lindstrom delivered a powerful and personal speech encouraging her peers to take risks and embrace growth. Reflecting on her experience as one of only two girls on the boys’ golf team, she urged her classmates to “learn how to be comfortable with your discomfort” and to “stay strong and dare to venture outside your box.”

Among the highlights of the ceremony was the presentation of the prestigious Beekman Medal, awarded to Nicole Walsh in recognition of her outstanding character and achievements. The National Honor Society’s Honorary Inductee award, given annually to an inspirational educator, was presented to Dr. Nicolle Sisia, who leads the school’s ASL program.

Following the distribution of diplomas, Ms. Argaman formally introduced the Oyster Bay High School Class of 2025. In a joyful final moment, the graduates tossed their caps into the air, marking the end of one journey and the beginning of another.

The Oyster Bay-East Norwich School District congratulates the Class of 2025 and wishes them continued success, happiness and fulfillment in all the adventures that lie ahead.

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Date Added: 6/30/2025

Please join us via livestream to celebrate the Class of 2025 at their graduation ceremony, this Saturday June 28 at 10:30am.

Click here to watch the livestream.

 

Date Added: 6/26/2025

Date Added: 6/25/2025

At the June 17 meeting of the Oyster Bay-East Norwich Board of Education, Superintendent Dr. Francesco Ianni led an evening of celebration and recognition, highlighting the achievements of students, faculty and community leaders.

Dr. Ianni began by congratulating the district’s student athletes who recently competed at the New York State athletic championships. A total of 22 OBEN students qualified and participated at the state level - an impressive showing that brought pride to the district. Their dedication and success were acknowledged before the board and attending community members.

Principal Melissa Argaman and Assistant Principal John Pardue then recognized outstanding achievements by students in world languages. French and Spanish language learners at Oyster Bay High School earned high honors on national exams, placing in the top 25% of test takers across the country. Students received gold, silver and bronze medals for their performances on the French and Spanish National Exams. Each student was presented with a certificate of recognition from the Board of Education, honoring their academic excellence and commitment to language learning.

The meeting also included a special farewell to board member Joseph Laurita, whose term concludes at the end of the school year. Dr. Ianni presented Mr. Laurita with a commemorative plaque in appreciation of his dedicated service to the district. His contributions and leadership were met with warm applause and gratitude from colleagues and the community.

To close the evening, Dr. Ianni and Deputy Superintendent Maureen Raynor offered heartfelt thanks and congratulations to several district staff members who will be retiring at the end of the year. Their years of service and commitment to the students of Oyster Bay-East Norwich were commended by the board and administration.

The evening served as a reflection of OBEN’s strong school community and continued pursuit of excellence across academics, athletics and service.