Comsewogue Varsity Cheer welcomes a new coach, Samantha Donlon, who brings with her a 'New Era' for Comsewogue Cheer. Athletes on the team express their excitement for the new beginning as Coach Donlon prepares the team for a season of growth, unity, and high expectations.

“This year I am calling it the Comsewogue Cheer new era. A few things I am bringing to our team [are] a new routine, some team bonding, participating in more events throughout the school, and themed practices,” said Coach Donlon, who brings a fresh outlook and strong leadership to the team. She also stressed the importance of a collaborative team, saying that, “A goal I have for the team this season is bringing a team that works together.”

The athletes are equally motivated, each with their own goals for the season. Junior Abigail Monahan expressed her confidence in Coach Donlon's ability to help the team reach its full potential. "I expect that coach will prepare us to our best ability and do the best she can to make us the best we can be,” she stated.

Senior captain Eden Agoha shared her ambitious goals for the team this season, saying  “One of my goals is to make it to regionals and get a good score, and also make it to Nationals.” She emphasized both Coach Donlon and the team's commitment to pushing for excellence throughout the season.

Fellow senior captain Madison Williams shared similar hopes for success while also highlighting the importance of coming together as a team.“I hope that coach can prepare us enough to take the mat with confidence and hit every time,” she said. “I also hope that we become more unified and that instead of trying to grow personally, we try and grow as a team and become closer.”

As this ‘New Era’ begins for Comsewogue Varsity Cheer, it’s clear that both Coach Donlon and her team are ready to embrace the challenges that come ahead, with a shared vision of success and unity both on and off the mat. Coach Donlon states that “With cheerleading, it's such a team sport where there's no 'I' in team, and without one you can't have the rest.”

When students returned for the new school year, they were surprised to see that a brand-new courtyard was in the works, with renovations taking place over the majority of the summer. What students may not know is that the project has been in development for longer than they might think.

While much of the renovation occurred over the summer and extended into the school year, the planning actually began 18 months ago when the school recognized a need for change. I spoke with Mr. Abbey, the head of grounds, about this, and he explained:
"We needed to really upgrade the space for safety reasons," said Mr. Abbey, when asked about the reason for the courtyard renovation.

That’s the reason for the renovation, but I also asked students their thoughts on the new courtyard.
"I think it's very zen. It's a great way to engage more people outside, get fresh air, and show the beauty of Comsewogue," said Alexis Ebanks. "It's changed a lot," added Arianna Vazquez.

However, not all reactions were positive. "It looks a lot duller than it used to," commented Sophia Gregorio.

In addition to students, I interviewed one of the teachers who often sees the courtyard."There's a nice amount of shade out here mixed with some sunlight," said Ms. Nocera.

Although the courtyard is open for use by students and staff, it isn't quite finished yet. Mr. Mosca also shared his thoughts on the space, saying, "It's really a state-of-the-art design." He added, "I can't imagine not loving this courtyard."

The courtyard is nearly complete, but the school is still waiting to add some new furniture to the space. I asked students what they thought the new furniture might look like. "Furniture will definitely make it more aesthetic. It would look really nice," said Logan Boemper.

While the courtyard has received mixed reactions from students, it’s important to step into the space yourself to form a personal opinion. Only then can you decide whether or not you agree with Mr. Mosca, who claims, "This is probably one of the nicest outdoor spaces in all of Suffolk County."

Comsewogue High School is changing its name from the “Warriors” to the “Spartans”.  The name will be changed to the “Spartans” because the original name “Warriors” was the name of an Indian tribe.  

The Comsewogue community will be thought of in a different way now, due to changes in the name and kids will have a hard time forgetting the fact that they used to be the Warriors name.  It changes the way people think and act.

Principal Mr. Mosca explains how the name came about, “We had a committee that we put together that was put together, that was comprised of students and teachers and some community members and looked at all the options”.

This new change sparked a lot of opinions due to such a loyal community.  “Once a Warrior Always a Warrior” has shaped this community in a way where it's hard to let in a new name.  The people in the community show loyalty and are hard-working people.  They have grit and determination to make this community the best it can be.

Sophomore Unc Chattery expresses his thoughts, “I feel like it changes the whole uniform system and how we run things in the school because the whole community was Comsewogue were all warrior pride but now it's Spartans.”  

The quote “Once a warrior always a warrior” sends such a big message, but now the quote has become a thing of the past.  The quote is saying how hard this community works.  They have the dedication and courage to keep this community going.  It shows loyalty and how no matter what, this community stays together.

Mr. Mosca says, “I think it really speaks of how much these people really embrace and love this community”.

Though the name of the community changed, it didn’t change the loyalty and love for this community. At the end of the day, people are going to go back to doing what they do every day to make this community as great as possible.  Mr. Mosca vouches for the High School as he says “We're all part of this Comsewogue family, we're all here for each other and we're all excited about being a part of it”.

In October of 2024, Italian teacher Mr. Drucker received AATI-LI’s Teacher of the Month award as well as the Comsewogue Teacher of the Month award. Mr. Drucker has demonstrated a commitment to his students, making him stand out for the award. Additionally, Mr. Drucker went beyond his teaching duties to provide support and leadership to his pupils.

Mr. Drucker has been teaching in Comsewogue for a long period of time. His classroom is a vibrant and welcoming space, where his students can feel encouraged to explore their language interests. His Italian skills have helped many students learn the basics of speaking Italian and helped them know more about the Italian lifestyle. 

“Being here for about 25 years in Comsewogue,” Mr. Drucker proclaims, “I feel like I’ve developed a stable Italian program for the students.”

Mrs. Antelo, another language teacher, nominated Mr. Drucker to receive this award. Mrs. Antelo is inspired by his method of pedagogy and explains how Mr. Drucker is very deserving of this award. Mrs. Antelo was motivated by Mr. Drucker’s dedication and creativity, leading him to be presented with this award.

“I could not think of somebody more deserving of this award,” Mrs. Antelo says, “Mr. Drucker goes above and beyond for sure.” 

Jackie Riviezzo is a former student of Mr Drucker. She has had him as her Italian teacher for 2 years. Jackie has learned a lot about the Italian language and Italian culture from Mr. Drucker. He used different methods to engage Jackie in the classwork so that she would be more interested in the lessons.

“To describe Mr. Drucker’s teaching in one word”, Jackie says, “I would say that it is very informative”.

Mr. Drucker is a remarkable and dedicated Italian teacher. The award that he received is a testament to his exceptional work and the positive impact he has on his students. Mr. Drucker has taught many students Italian and has influenced and helped the Italian program over the years.