December Newsletter

Posted Date: 01/11/26 (06:00 PM)

December SEL Newsletter

Celebrating Empathy, Achievement & Community at Southampton Intermediate School

December News

Dear Southampton Intermediate School Families,

December was an incredibly meaningful and exciting month at Southampton Intermediate School! We are proud to share the many ways our students, staff, and community came together to focus on empathy, celebrate achievements, and create unforgettable learning experiences.

December Theme of the Month: Empathy

Empathy was at the heart of our school community throughout December. The word empathy was featured in our morning announcements, and teachers and staff proudly displayed empathy posters outside their classroom doors. Our Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Day was also centered around this important theme.

Throughout the month, staff nominated students who consistently demonstrated empathy in their classrooms and interactions with others. These students truly exemplified kindness, understanding, and compassion toward their peers.

Annual SEL Day – December 18

On December 18, students and staff enjoyed our annual SEL Day, a full day dedicated to stepping away from academics and focusing on social-emotional learning, teamwork, and relationship building.

Teachers planned fun and engaging team-building activities in their classrooms, while students also participated in:

Relay races with our gym coaches
Bingo with Mr. Bentsen
Inspirational videos and an empathy lesson with Dr. Epley

The day featured an inspiring keynote speaker, Jordan Toma, who shared his powerful story of overcoming obstacles as a student with an IEP (Individualized Education Plan). Jordan’s positive message deeply resonated with our students, leaving them motivated and inspired.

Adding to the excitement, during lunch our very own security guard, Chef Omar, prepared a delicious chicken francese meal for all students and staff, a highlight of the day that everyone truly enjoyed!

Mac & Cheese Challenge Big Win!

We are thrilled to announce that Southampton Intermediate School earned top honors in Cornell University’s New York Agriculture in the Classroom Mac & Cheese Challenge!

Our student team, the Mac Island Mariners, won the middle school division in a statewide competition that included over 260 submissions. Their winning dish—a mac and cheese chicken pot pie—impressed judges with its creativity, culinary skill, and strong understanding of agriculture and nutrition.

As part of the challenge, students:

Developed an original recipe
Created a marketing component and slogan
Designed a custom fishing-themed T-shirt reflecting the East End of Long Island and our community’s connection to the water

Congratulations to our winning team members:

Cole Collins, Gabe Galvis Mejia, Chris Glorioso, Kiran Hedge, Charlie Holle, Bryce McGowin, Edwin Pina Bonilla, Luka Pisano, Kabir Vivanco, Matthew Vivanco, and Read Wilutis.

A huge thank you to our Home & Careers teacher, Mrs. Duryea for leading the team and being such a great support for our students.

🏆 Student of the Month Recognition

On January 9, Southampton Village Mayor Bill Manger visited our school for a Welcome Back 2026 Assembly. During this special event, Mayor Manger presented Student of the Month certificates to the students nominated for demonstrating empathy throughout December. We are so proud of these students for leading by example and representing the values of our school community.

Ayelli Fernandes Cause

Ayelli demonstrates strong social-emotional skills by consistently showing empathy toward others. They are able to recognize the feelings of their peers and respond with patience and kindness. Their actions contribute to a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

James Ortiz Sanabria

James was nominated for their empathetic leadership throughout the school day. They regularly support classmates, include others, and model respectful behavior. Their empathy extends beyond the classroom and helps create a welcoming school environment for all.

James Crosby

James was recognized for displaying empathy in their interactions with peers and adults. They are thoughtful, respectful, and always aware of how their actions affect others. Their compassionate behavior both inside and outside the classroom makes a positive impact on our school community.

Audrey Wynne

Audrey consistently shows empathy through kind words and positive actions. They are always willing to help others and treat everyone with respect. Their thoughtful behavior inside and outside the classroom makes a meaningful difference.

Anabella Smith

Anabella consistently demonstrates empathy in the classroom by being attentive to the feelings and needs of others. They offer support and encouragement to classmates, especially when someone is struggling, and make everyone feel included and valued. Their compassion and consideration truly reflect the qualities of a Student of the Month.

Jaxson Sutton

Jaxson was selected for demonstrating empathy in a variety of school settings. They show compassion toward others and are quick to offer support when it is needed. Their kindness helps strengthen relationships and build a positive school community.

John Doyle

JJ was nominated for consistently demonstrating empathy toward others. They show kindness and understanding in both classroom settings and throughout the school community. Whether offering help to a classmate or showing respect in everyday interactions, JJ leads by example.

Dylan Kelly

Dylan was nominated by staff for always helping and being kind to students in need of extra help. She is always kind, polite and shows empathy to all students and staff.

Nelson Coyago Jimbo

Nelson was nominated for their ability to show understanding and care for others. They consistently demonstrate patience, compassion, and respect in their daily interactions. Their empathy serves as a powerful example of how small actions can make a big difference.

Angelina Campohermoso

Angelina was nominated for consistently demonstrating empathy in both academic and social settings. They take the time to listen to others, show understanding, and offer support to classmates. Through their kindness and respectful actions, Angelina helps create a caring and inclusive school environment.

Vincent Godoy

Vincent is always ready to help others and assist with people and willing to be friends even with those who others may not want to be friends with.

He will always advocate when he sees wrong and is always there to help friends in need.

Maria Pulgarin

Maria is always thinking of her classmates best interests and is willing to lend a helping hand. She thinks of others often before herself and always shows empathy with her words and actions.

Peyton Hull

Peyton is an exceptional student who demonstrates empathy not only for peers but for teachers as well. She goes out of her way to care for others.

Frances Curnen

Frances shows empathy constantly for her friends. She is extremely caring and thoughtful and is always thinking of others. Frances is a role model when it comes to being a good friend and an overall good person.

Noelany Rae

Noelany is described by staff as a hard worker and a role model. She is polite, kind and empathetic to all students and staff