January 2026
MHS Families,
Happy New Year! December was a whirlwind of activity here at MHS! From exciting field trips to a spectacular winter concert, a spirited pep rally, and our inspiring senior alumni event, there was never a dull moment. These events brought our school community together to celebrate accomplishments, showcase talents, and connect across generations.
As we welcome students back, January is a time to reset routines, reconnect as a school community, and refocus on learning. The coming weeks include important academic milestones and opportunities to celebrate student achievement, and we appreciate your continued partnership as we support our students through this busy and meaningful month.
Eric T. Seipp
Principal
Important dates for the 2025-2026 School Year:
January -
5th - School Resumes
16 - Early Release, 11:05am dismissal (PD for teachers and staff)
19th - No School - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
20th - 23rd - January Regents Exams / Midterm Exams
27th - 3rd marking period begins
Click on the link below for our schedule -
Congratulations Mr. Dunninger
We are thrilled to celebrate Dan Dunninger, our band director, who was recently honored with the VFW Bronze Citizenship Medal for his ongoing support of our Nation’s Veterans. Congratulations, Mr. Dunninger!
MCSD STEAM Fair
Are you curious about the world around you? Do you want to show off your work from science class? Then sign up for the Millbrook Middle School/High School STEAM Fair! Every year middle school and high school students show off their amazing work and answer questions about the world around us. This year's STEAM Fair will be held at the middle school on Wednesday, February 25th (snow date Thursday, February 26th). Sign up google forms will be posted to science teacher's google classrooms starting in December and will close on January 9th. We are excited to see all of your amazing projects!
Alumni Event
On December 22nd, we welcomed back a group of alumni who graciously shared their post-graduation experiences with our current seniors. These former students, now pursuing diverse paths in higher education, the workforce, and beyond, offered valuable insights and advice. They discussed challenges they faced, strategies for success, and the importance of staying resilient and adaptable.
Through candid conversations and a lively Q&A session, the alumni encouraged seniors to explore opportunities, take initiative, and embrace lifelong learning. Their stories served as a powerful reminder of the possibilities ahead and the enduring connection to the school community.
This event was not only inspirational but also a testament to the strength and value of our alumni network in supporting and guiding future graduates.
Thank you Mr. Chanowsky for organizing this special event for our senior students!
Mock Trial
On December 17, 2025, Ms. Silverio’s Trial Techniques class and her Business Law class conducted a mock trial of the case of Macca Elery McLaughlin v. Robbie and Lee McLaughlin in the high school auditorium before an audience of proud parents, students, and faculty. The plaintiff, Macca, was a child singing sensation who sued his parents, Robbie and Lee, for breach of fiduciary duty in allegedly squandering his music fortune on an extravagant lifestyle for themselves and Macca’s siblings. Allen Mungalchetty and Jacob Detlefs acted as attorneys representing Macca. Jacob, Diego Flores, and Sam Hart played the roles of witnesses in support of Macca’s case. The attorneys representing the defendant parents, Robbie and Lee, were Angelina Gragnaniello, Cameron LaVelle, Angelina Lucas Rios. Denlin Hernandez, Kole Tempestilli, and Benjamin Conklin played the roles of witnesses in support of the defendant parents. The Opening Statements were presented by Allen Mungalchetty and Angelina Gragnaniello. The Closing Arguments were given by Cameron LaVelle and Jacob Detlefs. All the students demonstrated poise, composure, and grace under pressure in representing their respective side. Ultimately, the court’s decision on the merits was in favor of the defense, finding Macca’s parents not liable. Both sides represented their respective clients admirably and zealously, with the defendant parents’ side also winning the trial based on performance points by a mere one-tenth of a point. Congratulations to both teams for a successful trial!
Winter Band Concert
On Thursday, December 11th, we proudly held our Winter Concert and Art Showcase. The evening featured outstanding performances by our talented musicians and showcased beautiful artwork created by our gifted students. What a wonderful celebration of creativity and dedication!
Our Interact Club took part in a meaningful field trip to Habitat for Humanity of Dutchess County in Wappingers Falls. Students volunteered in the Habitat store and decorated holiday trees that will be auctioned off to support families in the Habitat community—an excellent example of service and leadership in action.
On Friday, December 19th, our gym was filled with energy and excitement during our Winter Pep Rally! Students and staff came together to celebrate school spirit, cheer on our teams, and enjoy fun performances and activities. What an amazing way to kick off the holiday break!
A note from our
Supervisor of Pupil Personnel Services
For Resources, News & Announcements from our School Counseling department, please visit our webpage by clicking here.
The Student Services website is a great resource for students and families. Please check out the details by clicking here.
A note from our Supervisor of Student Services
Happy Near Year from the PPS Office! As hard as it might be to believe, we have already begun our initial planning for the 26/27 school year. Here in the PPS Office in conjunction with the school teams, we have started working on a schedule for our CSE Annual Review meetings. Please be on the lookout for more information to come regarding the date of your child’s Annual Review Meeting.
As always, if you have questions regarding your child, please do not hesitate to contact the PPS Office.
As always, if you have questions regarding your child, please do not hesitate to contact the PPS Office.
Ana Nyarady - Supervisor of Pupil Personnel Services
845-677-4200 ext. 1116
ananyarady@millbrookcsd.org
Danielle Leonardi - Administrative Assistant
845-677-4200 ext. 1107
danielleleonardi@millbrookcsd.org