On Feb. 13, students and teachers at Northwest Elementary School in Amityville enjoyed a festive Black History Month celebration. 

Roughly 200 families joined the festivities with music, dance, and joy filling the air. Northwest music teacher Mrs. Altumura and the students kicked things off with the National Black Anthem and a jazzy drum performance, setting the tone for a lively evening. The district would like to commend Social Worker Ms. Lee for her dedication to the school and community. Her organization of the event, along with decorating the school and choreographing dances with 50 students, added a colorful and vibrant touch to the celebration. 

The students shined with their recitations of “I am Black Poem,” three African dances, and sharing historical facts about African Americans, showcasing their knowledge and talent. The theme of Black History and Labor for 2025 brought a meaningful focus to the event, and the local dance group’s performances dedicated to women’s empowerment and African culture added an extra layer of excitement. 

The night ended on a high note with a fast-paced Zumba lesson, bringing the community together in a fun and energetic fashion. The district congratulates Northwest on putting together a celebration that celebrates diversity, history and unity. It was a memorable and festive celebration that highlighted the richness of Black history and culture. 

Click here to view the Northwest Elementary School’s celebration of diversity, history and unity slideshow.

Date Added: 2/19/2025

Students at Northwest Elementary School in Amityville recently enjoyed an interactive digital literacy lesson in the school’s library.  

Led by Northwest Library Media Specialist Ms. Lori Heavey, students viewed different means of transportation from the past to present day. Students also examined pieces of technology from the past and had to figure out what they were used for. 

The New York Digital Citizenship Standards for students in grades K-2 helps young learners understand how to use technology safely and responsibly. These standards teach students about online safety, respecting others, and protecting personal information. They also encourage positive interactions and the importance of balancing screen time with other activities. 

Students also learn about technology from the past, helping them see how tools and devices have evolved over time. They discover that technology is constantly changing and influencing how people live, learn, and communicate. By understanding these changes, students begin to see how technology can impact their future, inspiring them to use it in positive and meaningful ways.

Click here to view the Interactive lesson on digital literacy at Northwest Elementary School slideshow.

Date Added: 2/18/2025

On Jan. 28, students at Northwest Elementary School in Amityville celebrated the Lunar New Year with their annual parade. 

In celebration of the Lunar New Year, students learned that this is the Year of the Snake, which represents wisdom, intuition and transformation. Students crafted lanterns, dragons and noisemakers for the parade around the school. To celebrate the Lunar New Year, students and staff were encouraged to wear red which symbolizes good luck, energy and happiness. 

It was a festive and great learning experience for all of Northwest’s students. 

Photo captions:  

1-7: On Jan. 28, students at Northwest Elementary School in Amityville celebrated the Lunar New Year with their annual parade. 

Photos courtesy of the Amityville Union Free School District

Click here to view the Northwest Elementary School’s annual Lunar New Year parade slideshow.

Date Added: 1/31/2025

From Dec. 17-19, Northwest Elementary School in Amityville performed a medley of songs to spread some holiday cheer during their annual Winter Concert/Art Showcase. 

Directed by music teacher Ms. Nicole Altamura, students in grades K-2 performed in front of their teachers and parents in the school’s gymnasium. The medley of holiday songs included “Jingle Bells,” “Hanukkah is Here,” “Hip Hop Reindeer” and “Feliz Navidad.”  

After the performance, parents got to check out the artwork on display throughout the gymnasium. 

Click here to view the Northwest Elementary School students spread holiday cheer slideshow.

Date Added: 1/10/2025